San Clemente Times

THE LATEST: The Navy Hospitalman whose notebook ramblings about bombing San Cle-mente High prompted an evacuation on the first day of school will serve four months in the brig. Daniel P. Morgan will also forfeit $3,976 of pay and was demoted to the lowest pay grade during his special court martial hearing Tuesday.

Morgan pleaded guilty to one charge of unauthorized absence and one charge of dis-orderly conduct in military court at Camp Pendleton. His parents, Donald and Dolores Morgan, flew in from Texas and testified on his behalf. Morgan has spent the last 137 days in the brig.

Within weeks of his change of duty from the pediatric ward at the Navy hospital in Twenty-Nine Palms to his arrival with the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion at Camp Pendleton on August 16, 2011, Morgan struggled to adjust, according to court testi-mony. His Kevlar vest was stolen, which also caused him to miss key training. He lacked the supplies he felt he needed as a medic, and a superior had also told him his lack of skill would cost Marines their lives.

By September 6, Morgan said started hearing voices that he described as evil. To relieve the stress, he started writing his thoughts on note cards and tossed them onto the floor of his room. In a notebook, he wrote a plan to bomb SCHS, which he said in court Tuesday he never intended to see through.

In court, the hospitalman apologized to the community of San Clemente and to the Marines and Navy for his actions. He has been undergoing therapy.

WHAT’S NEXT: Morgan also faces an administrative hearing with superiors in his assigned unit that will likely result in his dis-charge from the U.S. Navy, attorneys said.

What’s Up With...S A N C L E M E N T E ’ S T O P 5 H O T T E S T T O P I C S

… the Bomb Scare Suspect?

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1LOCAL NEWS & IN-DEPTH REPORTINGEYE ON SC

www.sanclementetimes.comSan Clemente Times January 26–February 1, 2012 Page 3

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANOGovernor Jerry Brown was scheduled to attend a luncheon in San Juan Capistrano on Thursday

to mark the city’s 50th anniversary of incor-poration. Jan Siegel, a driving force behind the

community’s yearlong celebration in 2011, said she discovered that Edmund G. “Pat” Brown

visited Capistrano in 1961 to congratulate residents on cityhood and in “recognition of San Juan Capistrano as one of the most historic mis-

sion communities in California.” Siegel said the committee worked with Rancho Mission Viejo

president Tony Moiso to invite Brown this time. They’d asked for him to attend a 2011 event,

but that wasn’t possible and the office called back to say the Governor would be available Thursday. The lunch is set for El Adobe, and

community leaders as well as members of the anniversary committee are invited to attend.

NEWS NEXT DOOR

DANA POINTA Dana Point man shot and killed an intruder in his home on the 34000 block of Capistrano by the Sea late Monday night. The resident was awakened by a noise just before 11 p.m. and got up to investigate. After finding nothing unusual he returned to his room. “A few minutes later the resident heard a noise again,” said Orange County Sheriff’s Department spokesman Jim Amormino. “This time he armed himself with a handgun.” The resident opened his bedroom door, saw a male intruder inside his house and fired multiple shots, hitting the man. The burglar escaped through the window he used to enter the home and then died in the back yard. No one has been taken into custody and no arrests have been made. The names of both parties have not been released.

WHAT’S GOING ON IN OUR NEIGHBORING

TOWNS

SCSan Clemente

THE LATEST: The city and the San Clemente Art Association has an open call for entries to its utility box beautification project.

Five traffic controller boxes across San Clemente have been selected as “canvases” for original pieces of art depicting the city’s unique culture and history. The city and association leaders are seeking artists for the “Street Art” project. Each selected artist or team of artists will receive a $500 honorarium as well as a supply voucher for up to $200.

WHAT’S NEXT: Interested artists may apply and provide up to three conceptual render-ings by 5 p.m. February 29. Applications must be submitted electronically to [email protected].

FIND OUT MORE: Visit the city’s website at www.san-clemente.org/streetartinfo or email Breanna Parrett at [email protected]. —SNG

… Art on Utility Boxes?5

THE LATEST: Capistrano Unified School District staffers say the poor economic cli-mate is forcing teachers to work longer. In 2007-08, for example, 84 teachers (certifi-cated employees) retired, but that number dropped dramatically to 26 in 2010-11.

The staff report doesn’t lay out all of the details, but says the district can offer a supplementary retirement program through Public Agency Retirement Services that would save Capistrano Uni-fied at least $600,000 a year. Capistrano faces as much as $30 million in necessary budget cuts.

The report doesn’t estimate how many teachers are eligible to retire under the

... CUSD Finances?4

plan, or what number of teachers staffers expect to take advantage of the offer.

WHAT’S NEXT: Trustees were scheduled to meet Wednesday night. Also that night, the board was expected to again consider poten-tial boundaries for future trustee elections. The changes come after the Census and a voter-approved measure that will see trust-ees elected by their local areas, instead of at large. The final vote on the voter boundaries is expected February 13.

FIND OUT MORE: See the Beyond the Blackboard blog at www.sanclementetimes.com for updates from the meeting. —Jonathan Volzke

Have a story idea? Send your suggestions to [email protected].

THE LATEST: The man who suffered head injuries during a street fight January 6 is out of a coma and improving, his father said Tuesday.

… the Man Struckby a Brick?

3

… Help With Rental Payments?

2

THE LATEST: The Orange County Hous-ing Authority will open its Waiting List to accept pre-applications for housing as-sistance from February 15 until February 29. The Section 8 Waiting List is the only opportunity for individuals to obtain a Sec-tion 8 Housing Choice Voucher. Because of the limited number of vouchers and the large number of people who applied, the last time OCHA’s Waiting List was last opened was November 2005.

Section 8 Voucher assistance allows a very low-income family, senior, disabled person, or individual to pay approximately 30 percent of their monthly income toward rent. The remaining rental amount is paid by OCHA directly to the property owner or manager. Applicants must earn below 50 percent of the county’s median income. For a family of four, that amount is $48,150 while the amount for an individual is $33,750.

WHAT’S NEXT: Beginning February 15, applications for the Waiting List will be available online at www.ochousing.org or at participating cities and branches of the Orange County Public Library.

FIND OUT MORE: See www.ochousing.org or call 714.480.2740. —JV

During the fight, the 19-year-old was struck with a brick and was taken to the hospital where he was put into a medically induced coma. His father said his son had surgery Tuesday and his prognosis was excellent.

“He’s doing a hell of a lot better,” the father said. “He’s looking at people. He’s kicking. He’s moving his legs. He’s back to life. He’s down to one or two tubes.”

The father said he hoped authorities would help remove the “bad element” in San Clemente so incidents like his son’s don’t happen again.

WHAT’S NEXT: Lt. Paul D’Auria, chief of police services, said deputies were step-ping up patrols and keeping a close eye on groups who congregate or appear to be driving around the city looking for trouble. He also stressed that he did not believe the street fight or the gang shooting the following weekend were part of some orchestrated plan.

“We’re hoping that it’s done,” he said.

FIND OUT MORE: www.sanclementetimes.com —SNG

FIND OUT MORE: To read the full story, see www.sanclementetimes.com —Stacie N. Galang


EYE ON SC

Thursday, January 26

Bridge 1 p.m. Games Monday and Thursday at the Senior Center. 117 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.3322, www.san-clemente.org.

Friday, January 27

Fourth Friday Trail Work 8 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Volunteer to help make trails accessible to our visitors at The Reserve/Richard and Donna O’Neill Land Conservancy. Drinks and snacks provided. Free. Call for info, 949.489.9778, www.theconservancy.org.

Earned Income Tax Credit Awareness Day IRS event to educate the public on EITC for moderate- to low-income families and how to claim credits. San Clemente Collab-orative is offering tax help at FAM (929 Calle Negocio) and Our Lady Fatima Church (105 N. La Esperanza). Contact Leslie Davis at 949.547.7260 for more info.

Saturday, January 28

Fundraising Car Wash 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Get your car washed with proceeds helping San Clemente’s adopted 2nd Battalion 4th Marines. Held in the Wal-Mart parking lot. 951 Avenida Pico, 760.763.0183, www.san-clemente.org.

Monday, January 30

Growl Siren Tests Each of the City’s 19 sirens will be growled once either January 30 or 31. This is a quarterly test. www.san-clemente.org.

Tuesday, January 31

Toddler Story Time 10:30 a.m. Tod-dlertime for children ages 2-3 with adult participation at the San Clemente Library; includes stories and activities. Advanced sign up required. 242 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3493, www.ocpl.org.

San Clemente Toastmasters 7 p.m.–8:30 p.m. Practice public speaking every Tuesday in a supportive atmosphere at the library, 242 Ave. Del Mar, 949.361. 8463, www.sanclemente.freetoasthost.net.

Wednesday, February 1

Kiwanis Meeting 12 p.m. The Kiwanis Club meets at Carrows. 620 Avenida Pico, 949.290.8729, www.sanclementekiwanis.com.

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

TOPS 9 a.m. Take Off Pounds Sensibly, a nonprofit weight-loss support group, meets at St. Clement’s by-the-sea Church every Wednesday. 202 Avenida Aragon, San Clem-ente, www.tops.org.

CITY ANDCOMMUNITY CALENDAR

SC Sheriff’s BlotterCOMPILED BY STACIE N. GALANG

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 pro-vided. An arrest doesn’t represent guilt. The items below are just a sampling of the entries listed on the OCSD Web site.

Tuesday, January 24

PATROL CHECKAvenida La Pata, 200 Block (2:36 p.m.)Deputies were called about scooters being used at the park.

SUSPICIOUS PERSONS/CIRCUMSTANCESMariposa, 200 Block (11:49 a.m.) A man had taken apart a hot water heater and moved a washing machine due to mold. When told he was at the wrong location, he left and did not replace anything.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLEOla Vista, 1500 Block (10:12 a.m.) A man in his mid-20s was reported sitting in his car. The caller was concerned because

everyone on the street works and no one is at home.

DISTURBANCEMarquita, 200 Block (6:56 a.m.) A caller reported her neighbors were pounding on her window because her car was blocking the driveway. She was afraid to go outside because they were being so aggressive.

BURGLARY IN PROGRESSAvenida de la Paz, 100 Block (3:13 a.m.)Someone was heard walking and the neighbor’s dog started barking around the same time, which was unusual, said the caller who went outside and walked around.

Monday, January 23

DISTURBANCEEl Camino Real, 2300 Block (11:32 p.m.)A Jack in the Box employee called depu-ties after three transients became very angry when told they couldn’t walk up and order from the drive thru.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON IN VEHICLEAvenida Algodon, 100 Block (7:05 p.m.)Three people were reported drinking alcohol while in a white truck. The caller was worried they would drink and drive.

DISTURBANCEEl Camino Real, 2400 Block (6:14 p.m.)Deputies were called about one woman and four men, all in their 20s and possibly homeless, who had been loitering at the laundromat.

DRUNK DRIVINGInterstate-5/Avenida Vista Hermosa (6:02 p.m.) A caller reported a car on the southbound side of the San Diego Freeway swerving. The caller thought the driver was possibly falling asleep.

CITIZEN ASSISTEl Camino Real, 1400 Block (5:02 p.m.) An employee of Tommy’s called about a customer who bought food and said he could not pay. He was possibly a transient.

KEEP THE PEACECristianitos Road, 100 Block (3:37 p.m.)A woman called deputies when her room-mate started ripping up the carpet in their apartment. The caller didn’t want to be held responsible.

DISTURBANCECanada, 100 Block (1:10 p.m.) An 8-year-old boy had locked himself in the bath-room and was refusing to come out. He was also kicking the door from the inside.

DISTURBANCEE. Avenida Pico/Camino Vera Cruz (10:29 a.m.) A man was drinking a 40-ounce beer publicly and pacing back and forth. The man took off on foot.

SUSPICIOUS PERSON/CIRCUMSTANCESEl Camino Real, 3600 Block (8:59 a.m.)A man driving what looked like a mustard colored, Scooby Doo-style van was sticking his tongue out of the window and pretend-ed to lick. He followed the caller’s 12-year-old daughter who was near a bus stop.

Whitney was the only cheerleader to represent South Orange County, San Cle-mente High School and San Clemente at the event. The cheerleaders were in London for seven days and toured the country, including sites like Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. They group also saw a West End production of Legally Blonde and took a dinner cruise on the River Thames.

Lifesavers Needed

u San Clemente High’s Be A Hero Become A Donor Club needs help reach-ing its goal of bringing one-third of the blood supply used at our local hospital. Two bloodmobiles will be available for donors in the high school’s main parking lot Saturday, January 28 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Walk ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred. Visit www.mysdbb.org and enter sponsor code “SCLM. “ The club will also be running a marrow registry. Donors will receive give-aways from local busi-nesses and be entered in a raffle. For more information, contact Gina Cousineau at 949.842.9975 or [email protected].

NEWS BITESP R O P S , R E C O G N I T I O N S A N D M O R S E L S O F I N F O

Compiled by Jonathan Volzke

Car Wash to Raise Funds for 2/4

u The city-sponsored 2nd Battalion 4th Marines will host a fundraising car wash Saturday, January 28 at the Wal-Mart park-ing lot at 951 Avenida Pico, San Clemente. The fundraiser will help support the 2/4’s deployed members serving in Afghani-stan. Donations will be accepted. For more information, contact Timothy Hanson at 760.763.0183.

Kindergarten, Spanish Immer-sion Registration to Start Feb. 1

u Fall kindergarten registration in Cap-istrano Unified School District begins in February. Each school will host Kindergarten Roundup meetings to provide information about kindergarten programs and regis-tration materials. To view the dates, visit http://bit.ly/xB7LvD. Parents and guardians should bring proof of residence to receive their registration packets. Children must be 5 years old on or before Nov. 1, 2012 to begin kindergarten. For more information, visit the CUSD website at www.capousd.org.

Open enrollment information can be found at http://capousd.ca.schoolloop.com/oe. Three Spanish language immersion programs in the Capistrano Unified School District will accept applications for kinder-garten students beginning February. 1.

Las Palmas Elementary School in San Clemente is also one of three district sites offering the Spanish language immersion program. Applications for the language immersion programs are available at Las Palmas and will be accepted from February 1 to 10. Las Palmas will host two more infor-mational meetings on the program January 31 and February 7 at 8:30 a.m. at 1101 Calle Puente, San Clemente.

SC Cheerleader Performs in London

u Whitney Tarrant was chosen from thousands of applicants across the country for the Universal Cheerleaders Associa-tion All-American team. Team members were invited to perform over the Christmas and New Year’s holiday in the London New Year’s Day parade.


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HOW TO REACH US

San Clemente Times, Vol. 7, Issue 4. 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.thecapistrano-dispatch.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 2012. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

CEO Norb Garrett

EDITORIAL

Group Editor, Editor, The Capistrano Dispatch> Jonathan Volzke

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ART/DESIGN

Senior Designer> Jasmine Smith

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INTERNSAustin Patrick Reagan

SPECIAL THANKSRobert Miller

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PICKET FENCE MEDIA

SCSan Clemente

VIEWS, OPINIONS AND INSIGHTSSOAPBOX

Redevelopment Agencies Hit End of the Roadcontributed significantly to improving our community, Including but not limited to:

• $1.8 million Pier Bowl renovation project, comprising sidewalk renovations, lighting and landscaping;

• $2.4 million for overhauling the 80-year-old historic municipal Pier;

• $5.3 million for Casa Romantica acqui-sition and restoration;

• $1.3 million expansion of city-owned building leased by Fishermans Restaurant;

• $4 million for the Coastal Trail;• $100,000 for Pier crossing improve-

ments;• $46,000 for disabled Pier Bowl park-

ing;• $70,000 for Parque Del Mar improve-

ments.Not only has San Clemente’s agency

provided for these major projects, it also mandates a 20 percent “set-aside,” which is used to provide grants to help the needy through shared housing, temporary shel-ter and homeless prevention programs. Money has been provided to the Mary Erickson Foundation, Family Assistance Ministries, Shorecliff’s Mobile Home Park and San Clemente Senior and Vintage

community. Through various student organizations students continue to make a difference both locally and globally. While our students remain committed to helping others, tonight I would like to talk to you about how our school is advancing not only in athletics and academics, but also in school spirit and pride.

Although our school year started somewhat precariously with a bomb scare on the first day, it actually proved to be a testament to how well organized and safe our school really is. During the chaos and confusion of that first day back, students

he era of California Redevelopment Agencies began in

1945 and, after a run of 67 years, will come to a screeching halt February 1 as a result of a decision by the California Supreme Court to uphold legisla-tion to eliminate them.

The unwinding of agencies is intended to address California’s budgetary struggles by transferring property tax revenue local governments receive from their agencies back to the state.

Rather than critiquing redevelopment agencies as a legislative solution to ad-dressing urban blight, my focus is on actual projects completed utilizing RDA financing methods and the fiscal impact of losing a $2.3 million annual funding source. Because these dollars are dedicated to improving our project area, generally defined as the Pier Bowl zone, including open-space and beaches, this consistently frees up City General Fund monies for other major capi-tal projects throughout the city.

Established in 1975, the city’s RDA has

SCHS CELEBRATES VICTORIES ON AND OFF THE FIELD

KylE MuRPHyGood evening Board of Trustees. My

name is Kyle Murphy. I am in my second term as Student Body President at San Clemente High School. Tonight, I am here to share with you some of the many ac-complishments made by the students at San Clemente High School.

last January, when I spoke to the board, I spoke of the outstanding efforts our Tritons were making to contribute to our

T

PLEASE NOTE: The opinions offered here are those of the guest columnist and may or may not be shared by the San Clemente Times. We appreciate, however, their willingness to share their views, and we invite responses to be sent to [email protected].

Shores apartments.Funding for current projects that are

termed “enforceable obligations,” basi-cally a contract has been entered into, will continue to be financed from the RDA. All other projects included in the budget and the future Capital Improvement Program cannot be funded from the RDA. Conse-quently, the following scheduled RDA projects are at risk unless other revenues are identified:

Municipal Pier: $1.2 million for ongoing maintenance of the pier;

Street and Storm Drain: Street reha-bilitation and storm drain improvements require $1.3 million;

Beach Restrooms: The city’s restroom master plan calls for $1.7 million to $2.3 million in improvements, with RDA funding of $500,000 for linda lane and $460,000 for Corto lane;

Marine Safety Building: $500,000 pro-posed to replace building sheet piles;

Linda Lane Trail Lighting: $100,000 to provide needed lighting on the trail;

Pier Bowl Wayfinding Signage: $75,000;Casa Romantica Parking Lot Surfacing:

$350,000 plus, $30,000 is funded for an-

and staff remained calm and composed. In hindsight, I don’t think the situation could have been handled any better.

Tonight, I would like to share with you the victorious accomplishments our students are making in the classroom and outside the classroom. This year, our sports teams and our API scores have broken records previously held in the school’s 48-year history.

It’s true that as Tritons we take pride in each and every sports team at our school: This year almost every fall sport’s team made it to at least the quarter finals

BY THE NUMBERS: By Pall Gudgeirsson, Assistant City Manager & City Treasurer

Pall Gudgeirsson

nual maintenance;Corto Beach Access: Rebuild beach cross-

ing for $380,000;Serra Workforce Housing Project: The

RDA purchased property for $410,000 and $2.5 million is committed from the RDA for construction of 19 affordable apartments.

Pier Bowl Street Improvements: $650,000.In order to address the many critical

projects identified in the RDA capital plan, the City Council will evaluate all options as a part of the long Term Financial Plan and the setting of Strategic Priorities for the next several years at its annual workshop February 15. The challenge will be to iden-tify essential projects and funding sources, reducing, delaying or eliminating projects, and integrating the unfunded projects into the city’s overall capital plan.

Once again, the diversion of city property taxes to the state will adversely impact fu-ture planning of all city capital projects. The long and winding road will never disappear, but we will adjust to the curves. SC

of CIF. I’m sure most of you know that our varsity football team made it all the way to the CIF championships held at Anaheim Stadium. The last time that happened was 1979. The community turned out for all the games in a big way, showing strong support for our hometown high school. Alumni, parents and community members showed up in huge numbers to support SCHS; they even traveled to St. John Bosco High an hour up the freeway to cheer on the Tritons. It was so inspirational to see the community come together to support our

(Cont. on page 8)

Letters to the Editor

“The long and winding road…”—Lennon/McCartney


SOAPBOX

(Cont. from page 7)our team and school. This month, our students and teachers are excited as our winter sports teams get ready to kick off another winning season.

In addition to a victorious football season, the girls’ Cross Country team raced by their competitors and took the state cham-pionship for the first time in our school history. To celebrate, we held a pep rally to honor the girls’ team for their historic accomplishment.

In the classroom, our school’s Academic Performance Index, rose 18 points this year. Our API is 839, that’s an 18-point in-crease from 2010. Principal George Duarte announced that this score is the highest in school history. We’ve never been prouder to be Tritons. Not only are Tritons getting the job done on the field but also in the classroom. Our students remain dedicated and continue to strive to exceed expecta-tions.

Another first for our school this year was the grand opening of our Student Store in September. Located in its own classroom near the Triton Center, it provides students an opportunity to purchase school sup-plies they need every day. The store is open daily at lunch for an hour. Our Parent Teacher Student Association oversees the store and provides staffing by parent vol-unteers. Our students really appreciate this service and think that it’s a great addition to our campus.

I’d like to take a minute to update you on our Associated Student Body activities. Today we kicked-off a “Classroom Safety Supply Drive,” which will run from January 9th through the 27th. The objective of the drive is to replace expired emergency sup-plies and add to existing supplies. We are asking students to help by donating items such as bandages, duct tape, flashlights, solar blankets, and bottled water. ASB is also busy preparing for Winter Formal on February 3rd.

I hope I have provided an overview of our high school’s many outstanding advancements in athletics and academics, and also school spirit and pride. As a senior, in my final semester at SCHS, I have never felt such a strong connection among the students, staff, teachers, and community.

Thank you for inviting me to speak to you tonight on behalf of all our proud Tritons.

Kyle Murphy is president of San Clemente High School’s student body. He addressed the Capistrano Unified School District Board of Trustees at their January 10 meeting.

PERSEVERANCE ON MAX BERG PARK APPRECIATED

JOAN THOMPSON, San ClementeIn early December, our City Council

approved a project to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety to and from Las Palmas Elementary School. The city, in cooperation with Capistrano Unified School District,

undertook this project more than two years ago after receiving a grant from the federal Safe Routes to School for $594,000. The project includes a continu-ous and unobstructed sidewalk around Max Berg Plaza Park that connects to existing designated crosswalks to school, elimination of right turn lanes to reduce traffic speed and a narrowing of street to reduce pedestrian crossing distances. The city engineering department produced a straightforward conceptual plan which placed the sidewalks around the outside of the park, squaring off the park at each corner to eliminate the right turn lanes simply and inexpensively. The sidewalk was to be constructed with typical concrete. Then the problems began. Max Berg Plaza Park is on the registered list of historical sights in San Clemente, though it has been modi-fied over the years in ways that make it difficult to think of it as historical. The Historical Society has a duty to protect all registered sights. They strongly opposed the conceptual plan and insisted that the “oval shape” of the park be retained and that the sidewalk be composed of Ole Hanson tiles placed inside the park, where an identical sidewalk existed long ago. City staff worked diligently over the next year or so making alterations to the conceptual plan, even hiring a historical consultant to be sure all details were addressed. The cost of the project increased with each delay and revision. Opponents declared this project unnec-essary and a waste of tax dollars. While there may be plenty of wasteful spending of tax dollars, this particular long term improvement, paid for mostly by a federal grant administered to the state and which our City Council applied for and won by

proving that San Clemente is a well man-aged and fiscally responsible community, is an opportunity for our city to make needed updates that enhance the safety of traffic patterns for drivers, walkers and bicyclists in an older, densely populated neighborhood. The success of the project is long term, and if it results in more stu-dents safely accessing Las Palmas school on foot or bicycle, both the students and the neighborhood will benefit. I extend my gratitude and thanks to city staff and City Council members who patiently persevered through the long process for this project.

PARK CHANGES POOR USE OF FUNDS

LARRY CULBERTSON, San ClementeJoan Thompson wants to convince

you that spending $995,000 at Max Berg Plaza Park will somehow make the route to and from Las Palmas Elementary School safer for children. The money will be spent to construct a sidewalk around the park perimeter, install 14 lights, and block off the curved streets at the four corners of the park.

A comparison between the route children are currently taking and the proposed through –the –park routes indi-cates that the proposed routes are actu-ally less safe and will be more expensive to maintain than the current route. About 100 students come from the east side of El Camino Real. The crossing guard at East El Portal directs children to walk on the south side of Avenida del Poniente. This provides uninterrupted safe passage all the way to the next crossing guard at the corner of Avenida del Poniente and Calle Puente.

In order to use the new sidewalk

around the park, students will have to walk on the north side of Avenida del Poniente, El Portal or the south side of Avenida Aragon. At least three additional crossing guards will be needed to allow children to cross at El Prado. The children crossing onto the park from El Portal will not then walk around the perimeter; they will cut straight across the park.

Why would we want to take a single safe route to school and break it up into a com-plex, difficult to manage, less safe situation? It makes no sense.

Others have asked who the stakeholders are, suggesting that those who live outside the area are not stakeholders. The implica-tion is that only people who are directly affected by council actions are entitled to express opinions. She knows that I have been actively working for more sidewalks, where they are needed. The park project will gobble up two years’ worth of city sidewalk money. No matter where you live in the city, if money is misspent it will affect you. We are all stakeholders.

From a historical preservation standpoint, I am delighted we will be getting our Ole Hanson sidewalk back. The 14 lights will probably encourage more park usage all the way to the 10 p.m. curfew. I do not think that is a good idea. Blocking off the curved streets will decrease parking so that is not a benefit. Let us not delude ourselves into thinking that it is appropriate to take state-administered Safe Route to School money and spend it for features that will not benefit the safety of children walking to school.

HELP MAKES GRAD NITE A SUCCESS

VICKI PATTERSON, San ClementeThe San Clemente High School Grad Nite

Committee would like to thank each and ev-ery donor for your assistance for Grad Nite 2011. After the article came out last spring regarding the support needed, the huge out-pouring of cooperation was tremendous. We quadrupled donations from years past, all with the help from our tight-knit community.

In an effort to continue making Grad Nite better each year, we would like to express to you, the sponsors, that we will continue to be in need of donations in order for Grad Nite 2012 to continue as a successful event. Each donation, large or small, is valuable and enables us to host a successful night of safe fun for our San Clemente High seniors.

As a nonprofit whose only mission is for our grads to have a safe place to celebrate their success, we appreciate all fundraising assistance and volunteer support. We look forward to the opportunity to continue work-ing with you and applaud your continued support in promoting Grad Nite 2012. You can follow us and “like” our Facebook page too at www.facebook.com/SCHSGradNite.

To submit a letter to the editor for possible inclusion in the paper, e-mail us at [email protected]. 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.

Letters to the Editor (cont.)FROM THE MIND OF ZELESKI

Eateries, Watering Holes & MoreAppetizers • 9Bagel • 4Bar • 9Billiards • 10Breakfast • 3Breakfast Burrito • 4Burger • 6Cup of Coffee or Tea • 4Donut • 4Happy Hour • 3International Eats • 3Lunch Spot • 3Margarita • 9Menu for Healthy Choices • 4Overall Restaurant • 3Pizza • 9Restaurant for a Date/Romantic Evening • 3Sandwich • 6Spot to Cure a Sweet Tooth • 9Sushi • 6Taco • 6Venue for Live Music • 10

At the ShopsAntiques • 16Arts and Craft Supplies • 15Clothing • 15Home Decor and Furnishings • 15Jewelry • 10Kids Apparel & Toys • 10Place to Buy Flowers • 16Place for Buying and Viewing Art • 15Store to Buy the Perfect Gift • 15Surfboard Shaper • 16Surf Shop • 16Wine Selection • 10

Services on the To-Do ListBarber Shop • 18Car Repair • 20Customer Service • 16Dry Cleaner • 20 Pet Care & Grooming • 18Gym • 18Hair Salon • 18Jeweler • 20 Lodging • 22Manicure & Pedicure • 18Spa for Massages, Etc. • 20Tire Shop • 20Yoga/Pilates Studio • 20

Getting OutsideBeach • 22Golf Course • 22Park to Take the Kids • 22Place to Take Out-of-Towners • 22Surf Break • 22

hearty congratulations to this year’s winners of the SC Times’ 6th Annual Ole Awards. In 2011, it was the best of times and the worst of times for the small, medium and large businesses that keep this not-so-small village by the

sea moving. While the economy continued to recover, companies and their employees hunkered down and some, sadly, didn’t make it. This just gives us all the more reason to salute — and patronize — the ones who survived not by taking shortcuts but by streamlining their business and continuing to impress us.

With our hectic schedules fi lled with school, work and play, we often take for granted the folks who ease our lives. They groom Fido. They clean our work shirts and make us look spiffy. They help us keep our fi tness routines. They keep our bel-lies fi lled and put smiles on our faces. So cheers to all the winners and the hundreds of nominees. — Stacie N. Galang

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Pedro’s Tacos has regularly been a Golden Ole winner for its tacos and other good eats since the SC Times started its annual Best of San Clemente awards. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

cades of consistently good fare. For 25 years, locals have enjoyed Mongkut’s daily-made curries, stir-fry sauce, peanut sauce, spicy options and expansive menu of 124 items. Seemingly all things Thai are available for ordering — from chicken satay to Thai adora-tion silk, an egg noodle dish. The restaurant is owned and operated by chef Ning Laitipaya and her husband Donny Laitipaya. —SNG

Taka-O Japanese Restaurant

425 North El Camino Real, 949.498.7111www.taka-orestaurant.com

NOMINEES: 9 Style Sushi • Antoine’s Cafe • A Taste of China • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bamboo Bamboo’s Chinese • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Blue Danube • Board & Brew • Buono Pizza & Pas-tas • Cafe 207 • Cafe Mimosa • Captain Mauri’s • Carbonara Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • China Well • Chipotle • Crispins Comfort Food • Daphne’s California Greek • Del Agave • El Jefe Cafe • El Mariachi • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fisherman’s Res-taurant and Bar • Fratello’s Italian Family Restaurant • Guicho’s Eatery • Hapa J’s • IHOP • Ichibiri’s San Clemente • Inka Mama’s • Italian Cravings Restaurant • Iva Lee’s • La Cocina de Ricardo Mexican Restaurant • La Galette Creperie • La Rocco’s • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • La Tiendita • Los Golondrinas • Los Patios • Miyako Japanese Restaurant • New Mandarin Garden • Nick’s San Clemente • Pacifi c Taste • Panda Express • Pedro’s Tacos • Pho Thanh Binh • Pick Up Stix • Rocco’s Restau-rant • Romano’s Pasta & Pizzeria • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • St. Roy at Vine • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sushi Gallery Miki • Taka-O Japanese Res-taurant • Thai Palace • Thai Paradise Restaurant • The Cellar • The Grill at Surfi n’ Donuts • Tina & Vince’s Italian Delicatessen • Tommy’s Family Restaurant • Village Mediterranean Rim • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Mong-kut Thai; Silver: Avila’s El Ranchito

Best Restaurant for a Date/

Romantic Evening

Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar

611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390, www.thefi shermansrestaurant.com

Fisherman’s can deliver the romantics’ dream: the orange sun setting into a purple-blue sky, vistas of water all around, amazing seafood dinners and a bottle of Dom Peri-gnon. Well, the restaurant can’t exactly force

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Best Happy Hour



At Fisherman’s, every weekday has a theme for Happy Hour, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. And who doesn’t love a theme? There’s Monday Night Live, Tropical Tuesdays, Mid-week Mix-ers, South of the Border Thursdays and Fish-erman’s Fridays. The cocktails and apps are made to match. On Thursdays, for example, get $3.50 Coronas or Pacifi cos and $3 steak tacos, rice and beans. —SNG

Beach� re Bar & Grill 204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.3232,www.beachfi re.com

NOMINEES: Adele’s Cafe • Antoine’s Cafe • Avila’s El Ranchito • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Big Helyn’s Saloon • Blue Danube • Board & Brew • Buds Famous Hot Dogs • Cafe Mimosa • Captain Mauri’s • Carbonara Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • Crispins Comfort Food • Duke’s • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fisher-man’s Restaurant and Bar • Goody’s Tavern Tavern • Hapa J’s • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Inka Mama’s • Irons in the Fire • Iva Lee’s • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Los Patios • Molly Bloom’s • Mulligans Sports Bunker • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Ole’s Tavern • Pizza Port • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • San Clemente Wine Company • Selma’s Chicago Pizza • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • St. Roy at Vine • Sunsets at the Pier • The Cellar • Red Fox Lounge • Rib Trader • The Riders Club Cafe • The Shore • Velvet Yogurt • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar; Silver: BeachFire Bar & Grill

Best International Eats

� e: Village Mediterranean Rim

123 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.8970, www.villagemedrim.com

Good things come in small packages and that’s true for this year’s winners. At Village Mediterranean Rim, the restaurant prepares the staples of the region — hummus, lamb, Moroccan pesto and vegetable moussaka — and seasonal options based on the freshness and availability of local products. The eatery provides all this in an intimate setting with indoor seating and al fresco dining. — SNG

� e: Mongkut Thai Restaurant

212 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3871, www.mongkutthaifoods.com

Downtown treasure Mongkut Thai brings de-

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Mother Nature to comply, but it is sunny California and the restaurant on the Pier has dibs on some of the nicest views. And if bub-bly doesn’t make the heart go afl utter, Fisher-man’s extensive wine list will. — SNG

St. Roy at VINE 211 N. El Camino Real, 949.361.2079, www.vinesanclemente.com

NOMINEES: Antoine’s Cafe • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Blue Danube • Board & Brew • Cafe 207 • Cafe Mimosa • Captain Mauri’s • Carbonara Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • Crispins Comfort Food • Del Agave • El Jefe Cafe • El Mariachi • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fratello’s Italian Family Restaurant • Hapa J’s • Ichibiri’s San Clemente • Inka Mama’s • Irons in the Fire • Ital-ian Cravings Restaurant • Iva Lee’s • Izza Neopolitan Pizzeria • La Rocco’s • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Miyako Japanese Restaurant • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Rocco’s Restaurant • San Clemente Wine Company • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Sunsets at the Pier • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • The Cellar • The Shore • Village Mediterranean Rim • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar; Silver: Vine

Best Overall Restaurant

Nick’s San Clemente 213 Avenida Del Mar, 949.481.2200, www.scnicks.com

Sumptuous food: check. Fireplace: check. Ambience: check. Chic wait staff: check. Cool bar: check. After two years downtown, Nick’s San Clemente has checked off all the boxes for locals and earned its place as best overall restaurant. The eatery’s menu features everything from burgers and sandwiches, to seafood, to chicken and ribs to prime cuts of steak. Nick’s also offers unique cocktails and a wide assortment of beer and vino. —SNG



NOMINEES: 9 Style Sushi • Antoine’s Cafe • Avila’s El Ranchito • Beach Garden Cafe • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Big Helyn’s Saloon • Biggie’s Burgers & More • Board & Brew • Cafe 207 • Cafe Mimosa • Captain Mauri’s • Carbonara Trattoria • Cas-sano’s Pizza • Chipotle • Corky’s Family Restaurant • Crispins

Comfort Food • Del Agave • Duke’s • El Jefe Cafe • El Mariachi • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fratello’s Italian Family Restaurant • Guicho’s Eatery • Hapa J’s • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Ichibiri’s San Clemente • Inka Mama’s • Irons in the Fire • Italian Cravings Restaurant • Iva Lee’s • Juice It Up • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • La Tiendita • Los Patios • Mongkhut Thai • New Mandarin Garden • Nobu Sushi • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Pho Thanh Binh • Pizza Port • Rib Trader • Rocco’s Restaurant • San Clemente Wine Company • S.C. Cafe • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • St. Roy at Vine • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Surferosa Cafe • Sushi Gallery Miki • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • Thai Paradise Restaurant • The Cellar • The Rider’s Club Café • The Shore • Village Mediterranean Rim • Zebra House Coffee • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine • Z Pizza 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar; Silver: Nick’s San Clemente

Best Breakfast

Antoine’s Cafe 218 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com

Time and again, San Clemente locals choose a delicious morning meal at Antoine’s Cafe to start their day. The El Camino Real restau-rant’s menu covers the gamut: sweet and savory crepes, egg plates aplenty such as benedict and Florentine and bagels like the Greek, the French and the tuna. Customers can pair breakfast with options such as coffee from a variety of exotic roasts, organic teas and espresso bar drinks. — Megan Bianco

S.C. Cafe1820 El Camino Real, 949.366-0626

NOMINEES: Adele’s Cafe • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bagel Shack • Beach Garden Cafe • Buds Famous Hot Dogs • Café Calypso • Cafe Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Captain Mauri’s • Chronic Tacos • Corky’s Family Restaurant • Crispins Comfort Food • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • IHOP • Inka Mama’s • Irons in the Fire • Jamba Juice • Juice It Up • La Gallete Creperie • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • La Tiendita • Las Golindrinas • Lavender Lounge • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Panera Bread • Pedro’s Tacos • Pipe’s Cafe • Red Fox Lounge • S.C. Donuts • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria •Signature Grill at Talega Golf Club • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Subway • Rose’s Sugar Shack Cafe • Sunrise Cafe • Sunsets at the Pier • Surferosa Cafe • The Bagel Shack • Beach Garden Cafe • Bread Gallery • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • The Grill at Surfi n’ Donuts • The Next Door • The Shore • Rose’s Sugar Shack Cafe • Tommy’s Family Restaurant • Zebra House Coffee • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Antoine’s Café; Silver: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar

Eateries, Watering Holes and More...

After two years downtown, Nick’s San Clemente has earned a reputation for fi ne dining in a hip atmosphere. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

Small on space but giant on taste, Village Medi-terranean Rim has become a haven for foodies on Avenida Del Mar. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

Antoine’s server Gloria Hicks shows off one of the restaurant’s most popular items, eggs benedict. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

After two years downtown, Nick’s San Clemente


Best Cup of Coffee or Tea

Starbucks 300 S. El Camino Real, 949.369.9520; 1001 Avenida Pico, 949.369.5649; 638

Camino de los Mares, 949.496.5900; www.starbucks.com

America’s favorite coffee shop is No. 1 in San Clemente again. Starbucks not only offers a nice environment for customers to enjoy their choice of coffee, tea or confection, but also provides friendly, speedy service and much-desired WiFi. The chain of coffee shops also sells the popular cinnamon morning bun, blueberry scones and a host of additional menu items to pair with a hot cup of java or any other of the dozens of drinks. —MB

Antoine’s Cafe218 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1763, www.antoinescafe.com

NOMINEES: Avila’s El Ranchito • Bagel Shack • Beach Garden Cafe • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Café Calypso • Cafe Rae • Captain Mauri’s • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Goody’s Tavern • Hector’s Cake Shop & Bakery • Inka Mama’s • Iva Lee’s • Kaylani Coffee Co. • Kelly’s Doughnuts • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Lavender Lounge • Le Gallette Creperie • Nick’s San Clemente • Panera Bread • Peet’s Coffee & Tea • Pipes Cafe • The Posh Peasant • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • San Clemente Inn • S.C. Cafe • S.C. Donuts • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Rose’s Sugar Shack Cafe • Sunrise Cafe • Surfi n’ Donuts • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • The Bagel Shack • The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf • The Grill at Surfi n’ Donuts • Zebra House Coffee • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Starbucks; Silver: Antoine’s Cafe

Best Donut

Sur� n’ Donuts 1822 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1249; 202 N. El Camino Real, 949.492.8450

If bigger is better, then Surfi n’ Donuts is best.

The El Camino Real shop features ginormous versions of the doughy confection and plenty of variety to boot. The donut shop has earned a reputation for consistently good sweet eats. Among the top sellers is Surfi n’s tiger tail, a glazed twist donut with chocolate and cinna-mon, but don’t forget perennial favorites like the old fashioneds and plump fi lled donuts. — SNG

S.C. Donuts 806 E. Avenida Pico, Ste. G, 949.498.7837

NOMINEES: Antoine’s Cafe • Cafe Mimosa • Kelly’s Dough-nuts • Pacifi c Coast Church Donuts • Panera Bread • Rose Donuts & Cafe 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Surfi n’ Donuts; Silver: S.C. Donuts

Best Bagel

The Bagel Shack 777 S. El Camino Real, 949.388.0745,www.thebagelshack.com

If customers are in a hurry, but would like

something tasty on the run, the Bagel Shack is just the place. The shack features a large selection of freshly made bagels including sesame, blueberry, onion, cinnamon raisin, cheddar, everything and plenty more. Caesar and garden salads, fruit cups and sandwiches are also available for breakfast and lunch for locals interested in more variety to quell their hunger. — MB

Sur� n’ Donuts1822 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1249; 202 N. El Camino Real, 949.492.8450

NOMINEES: Albertsons • Antoine’s Cafe • Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli • Café Calypso • Cafe Rae • Captain Mauri’s • The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf • Crispins Comfort Food • Fisher-man’s Restaurant and Bar • Gourmet Bagel • Kaylani Coffee Co. • Kelly’s Doughnuts • Pacifi c Coast Church Bagels • Panera Bread • Ralphs • Rose Donuts & Cafe • S.C. Donuts • Zebra House Coffee 2010 WINNERS: Gold: The Bagel Shack; Silver: Surfi n’ Donuts

Best Breakfast Burrito

Pedro’s Tacos 2313 S. El Camino Real, 949.498.5904; 550 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.5908;

www.pedrostacos.com

From 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., Pedro’s Tacos churns out its beloved breakfast burritos. Whether choosing just eggs or combining them with steak, beans or chorizo, Pedro’s is all about savory options. Customers can add sides like cheese, potato, salsa, guacamole and sour cream. Every day, Pedro’s makes its own guacamole and pico de gallo — with tomato, onion and cilantro. Locals have two San Cle-mente locations to get their burrito fi x. — MB

The Grill at Sur� n’ Donuts1822 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1249; 202 N. El Camino Real, 949.492.8450

NOMINEES: Beach Garden Cafe • Antoine’s Cafe • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bagel Shack • Baja Fresh • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli • Buds Famous Hot Dogs • Burger Stop • Café Calypso • Cafe Del Sol • Cafe Rae • Café Calyps • Captain Mauri’s • Carl’s Jr. • Chipotle • Chronic Tacos • Corky’s

Family Restaurant • Crispins Comfort Food • Del Taco • El Jefe Cafe • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Hector’s Cake Shop & Bakery • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Jack in the Box • Kelly’s Doughnuts • La Cocina de Ricardo Mexican Restaurant • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • La Tiendita • Los Golondrinas • Los Patios • Love Burgers • McDonald’s • Molly Bloom’s • Mr. Pete • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Pipes Cafe • Ralph’s • Rose Donuts & Cafe • S.C. Cafe • S.C. Donuts • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Stillwater Cafe • Sunrise Cafe • Sunsets at the Pier • Surferosa Cafe • Taco Bell • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Pedro’s Tacos; Silver: Pipes Cafe

Best Menu for Healthy Choices

Captain Mauri’s 149 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.8098

Captain Mauri’s offers an eclectic variety of sandwiches from the avocado n’ jack to the Bombay melt to the Shelton turkey. The downtown eatery also serves up veggie burgers, salads and oodles of fruit smoothies and honey vanilla shakes. Healthy food lovers – or food lovers in general – will appreciate unusual options like the tofu burger, squaw bread and bowls of granola with acai and other fruits. — MB



NOMINEES: 9 Style Sushi • Antoine’s Cafe • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bagel Shack • Baja Fresh • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli • Blue Danube • Board & Brew • Bread Gallery • Café Calypso • Cafe Del Sol • Cafe Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Chipotle • Crispins Comfort Food • Daphne’s California Greek • El Pollo Loco • Enne Cucina Italiana • Flame Broiler • Guicho’s Eatery • Hapa J’s • Hanson’s Market • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Inka Mama’s • Irons in the Fire • Jack in the Box • Jamba Juice • Juice It Up • Kultured Kitchen • La Siesta Mexican Res-taurant • Miyako Japanese Restaurant • Nick’s San Clemente • Pacifi c Taste • Panera Bread • Pedro’s Tacos • Pho Thanh Binh • Pick Up Stix • Rocco’s Restaurant • Rubio’s • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Soul Kitchen • Starbucks • Stillwater Cafe • Subway • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • Thai Paradise • The Cellar • Stella Lucy • The Grill at Surfi n’ Donuts • The Posh Peasant • The Shore • Tina & Vince’s Italian Delicatessen • Village Mediteranean Rim • Velvet Yogurt • Wahoo’s Fish Taco • Zebra House Coffee • Z Pizza 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Captain Mauri’s; Silver: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar

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Bagel Shack prepares egg sandwiches with local fl air like this Lowers with bacon on an everything bagel. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

Surfi n’ Donuts’ tiger tail, a twist with chocolate and cinnamon, is among its most popular donuts. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

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Best Lunch Spot

The Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar


Fisherman’s packs a noontime punch with its unparalleled views of the ocean and surfers below, a menu with something for everyone and fresh, quality food. Lunch entrees serve up hearty main dishes, including a calamari steak, teriyaki chicken or seafood cioppino with a choice of chowder or tossed salad, steak fries or rice pilaf plus a sourdough loaf. And there’s more — with pastas and other specialties. — SNG

Board & Brew 979 Avenida Pico Unit C, 949.498.2739, www.boardnbrewsc.com

NOMINEES: Adele’s Cafe • Antoine’s Cafe • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bagel Shack • Baja Fresh • Bamboo Bamboo’s Chinese • Beach Garden Cafe • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli • Bravo Burger • Bread Gallery • Buds Famous Hot Dogs • Burger Stop • Café Calypso • Cafe Del Sol • Cafe Mimosa • Cafe Rae • Captain Mauri’s • Carbonara Trattoria • Cassano’s Pizza • Chipotle • Chronic Tacos • Corky’s Family Restaurant • Crispins Comfort Food • Daphne’s California Greek • Del Agave • Del Taco • Duke’s • El Mariachi • Enne Cucina Italiana • Flame Broiler • Guicho’s Eatery • Hanson’s Market • Hapa J’s • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Inka Mama’s • Irons In the Fire • Kultured Kitchen • LaRocco’s Pizzeria • La Siesta Mexican

Restaurant • La Tiendita • Los Golondrinas • Molly Bloom’s • Mr. Pete • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Panera Bread • Pedro’s Tacos • Pho Thanh Binh • Pipes Cafe • Pizza Port • The Posh Peasant • La Cocina de Ricardo Mexican Restaurant • Riders Club Cafe • Rocco’s Restaurant • Rose Donuts & Cafe • Saddleback Memorial Medical Center • S.C. Cafe • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Signature Grill at Talega Golf Club • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Stillwater Cafe • St. Roy at the Vine • Subway • Sugar Shack • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sunrise Cafe • Super Bowl Express • Surferosa Cafe • The Surfi n’ Chicken • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • The Grill at Surfi n’ Donuts • The Shore • Tina & Vince’s Italian Delicatessen • Tommy’s Family Restaurant • Velvet Yogurt • Village Mediter-ranean Rim • Wahoo’s Fish Taco • Z Pizza • Zebra House Coffee 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar; Silver: Board & Brew

Best Sandwich

Board & Brew 979 Avenida Pico Unit C, 949.498.2739, www.boardnbrewsc.com

It took less than two years for Board & Brew to establish itself as San Clemente’s best spot for a sandwich—whether you’re looking for something cool and cold like the Turkado (turkey and avocado) or something with a little bite, such as the baja chicken (get it with sweet and sour on the side). The secret: Bread delivered daily, no freezers, no micro-waves. All served in a great atmosphere with great service. — Jonathan Volzke

Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli

111 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5924, www.downtownsanclemente/billysmeats

NOMINEES: Antoine’s Cafe • Bagel Shack • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Biggie’s Burgers & More • Bread Gallery • Buds Famous Hot Dogs • Buono Pizza & Pastas • Café Calypso • Cafe Mi-mosa • Cafe Rae • Captain Mauri’s • Cassano’s Pizza • Crispins Comfort Food • Duke’s • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Guicho’s Eatery • Hanson’s Market • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • IHOP • Inka Mama’s • Irons In the Fire • Italian Cravings Restaurant • Kelly’s Doughnuts • Kultured Kitchen • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Molly Bloom’s • Mr. Pete • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Panera Bread • Pipes Cafe • The Posh Peasant • Ralphs • The Riders Club Cafe • Rose Donuts & Cafe • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Shorecliffs Golf Club • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • St. Roys at Vine • Stillwater Cafe • Subway • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Surferosa Cafe • Beach Garden Cafe • The Grill at Surfi n’ Donuts • The Riders Club Cafe • The Shore • The Village • Tina & Vince’s Italian Delicatessen • Togo’s • Zebra House Coffee 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli; Silver: Board & Brew

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Best Taco

Pedro’s Tacos 2313 S. El Camino Real, 949.498.5904;

550 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.5908; www.pedrostacos.com

After 25 years, Pedro’s understands taco perfection. Just swap out the word shrimp for taco and Pedro’s menu reads kind of like the script from Forrest Gump: famous fi sh taco, shrimp taco, potato taco, rolled tacos, carne asada taco, grilled chicken taco or fried chicken taco. Customers can make their tacos the main dish of a combo meal that comes with beans and rice. — MB

Avila’s El Ranchito 204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5000, www.avilaselranchito.com

NOMINEES: Antoine’s Cafe • Baja Fresh • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Cafe Del Sol • Cafe Rae • Chipotle • Chronic Tacos • Crispins Comfort Food • Del Agave • Del Taco • Duke’s • El Jefe Cafe • El Mariachi • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Hapa J’s • Jack in the Box • King Taco • La Cocina de Ricardo Mexican Restaurant • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • La Tiendita • Las Golandrias • Los Patios • Molly Bloom’s • Mr. Pete • Mulligans Sports Bunker • Nick’s San Clemente • Pedro’s Tacos • Rubio’s • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • St. Roy at Vine • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Taco Bell • The Grill at Surfi n’ Donuts • The Shore • The Surfi n’ Chicken • Wahoo’s Fish Taco • Zebra House Coffee 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Pedro’s Tacos; Silver: Avila’s El Ranchito

Best Burger

The Riders Club Cafe1701 N. El Camino Real, 949.388.3758, www.ridersclubcafe.com

If you’re in the mood for a good, old-fash-ioned burger, the Riders Club Cafe is the place to go. The restaurant boasts of the highest quality of fresh meat and a unique combination of condiments, including homemade ketchup and garlic aioli to go with a burger. The genius of the burger joint’s success is in the details: house-made pickles,

Challah buns, sides of homemade pickled beets and kettle chips. — MB

Biggie’s Burgers & More1017 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.9182

NOMINEES: Adele’s Cafe • Antoine’s Cafe • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Beach Garden Cafe • Biggie’s Burgers & More • Buds Fa-mous Hot Dogs • Burger Junkies • Burger Stop • Cafe Mimosa • Captain Mauri’s • Carl’s Jr. • Crispins Comfort Food • Denny’s • Duke’s • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Humphry’s Sand-wich Shop • Inka Mama’s • Jacobi’s In the Alley • Kahuna’s Grill at North Beach • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Love Burger • McDonald’s • Molly Bloom’s • Mr. Pete • Mulligans Sports Bunker • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Pipes Cafe • Rose Donuts & Cafe • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Shorecliffs Golf Club • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • St. Roy at Vine • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Surferosa Cafe • The Grill at Surfi n’ Donuts • The Shore • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2010 WINNERS: Gold: The Riders Club Cafe; Silver: Biggie’s Burgers & More

Best Sushi

Taka-O Japanese Restaurant

425 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.7111, www.taka-orestaurant.com

For some great, traditional Japanese food and top-notch sushi, Taka-O is the place for San Clemente locals. The restaurant serves freshly prepared sushi plates accompanied with tataki sauce and ono rolls on the side. And if customers are in the mood for another dish, Taka-O comes with a large variety of other Japanese meals as well, along with a karaoke bar for those seeking an evening of fun in between chow. — MB

9 Style Sushi 102 Avenida Victoria, 949.366.3669

NOMINEES: Beachfi re Bar & Grill • Fisherman’s Restaurantand Bar • Hapa J’s • Ichibiri’s San Clemente • La Siesta Mexi-can Restaurant • Miyako Japanese Restaurant • Nick’s San Clemente • Pick Up Stix • Ralphs • Nobu Sushi • Sushi Gallery • Sunsets at the Pier • Sushi Sono • Trader Joe’s 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Taka-O Japanese Restaurant; Silver: 9 Style Sushi

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Board & Brew’s unique sandwiches, including the Baja Beef on a French baguette has made it a popular spot by locals. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

The Riders Club Cafe has become a hit for its tasty burgers. Photo by Alyssa Garrett


Best Pizza

La Rocco’s 122 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.8890, www.laroccospizzaonline.com

La Rocco’s continues to be a popular choice for fresh pizza any day of the week, whether it’s for the small or large pies of restaurant’s delicious yet traditional, cheese or pepperoni or variety of other choices. Kids — and their parents — enjoy the garlic knots to munch on on the side and customers can also order a small salad if they want to complement the Italian goodness with greens. — MB

Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta429. N. El Camino Real, 949.498.2540, www.sonnys.com

NOMINEES: 2 for 1 Pizza Co. • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Buono Pizza & Pastas • Café Calypso • Cassano’s Pizza • Cucina Piz-zeria • Domino’s Pizza • Enne Cucina Italiana • First Class Pizza • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Fratello’s Italian Family Res-taurant • Italian Cravings Restaurant • Izza Neopolitan Pizzeria • Krikorian Premier Theatres • Papa Johns • Papa Murphy’s • Pizza Hut • Pizza Port • Rocco’s Restaurant • Romano’s Pasta & Pizzeria • Rossi’s Pizza • Round Table Pizza • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Stuft Pizza & Brewing • Surf-side Pizza • Tina & Vince’s Italian Delicatessen • Z Pizza 2010 WINNERS: Gold: La Rocco’s; Silver: Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria

Best Appetizers

Nick’s San Clemente213 Avenida Del Mar, 949.481.2200, www.scnicks.com

It’s a simple, elegant menu of a “lucky seven” appetizers that earned Nick’s a reputation as the favorite. Under the menu’s “Bar Snacks,” the restaurant features its fi re roasted artichoke, halibut fi sh tacos, spinach and ar-tichoke dip, ahi tartare, steamed mussels and clams, asparagus fries in a crispy parmesan crust and short rib sliders served with fi res-tick onions and horseradish cream. —SNG



NOMINEES: 9 Style Sushi • Antoine’s Cafe • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bad To The Bone BBQ • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Cafe 207 • Cafe Mimosa • Captain Mauri’s • Carbonara Trattoria • Cas-sano’s Pizza • The Cellar • Del Agave • China Well • Crispins Comfort Food • Denny’s • Duke’s • El Mariachi • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Hapa J’s • Inka Mama’s • Irons In the Fire • Iva Lee’s • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Mongkut Thai • New Mandarin Garden • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Pho Thanh Binh • Pier • Pizza Port • Rib Trader • Rocco’s Restaurant • San Cle-mente Wine Company • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • The Shore • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • St. Roy at Vine • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sunsets at the Pier • Taka-O Japanese Res-taurant • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • The Grill at Surfi n’

Donuts • The Shore • Village Mediterranean Rim • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar; Silver: BeachFire Bar & Grill

Best Spot to Cure a Sweet Tooth

Velvet Yogurt120 S. El Camino Real, 949.276.4625, www.velvetyogurt.com

Locals who have a hankering for sweets, but don’t want to over indulge have made Velvet Yogurt their go-to spot. The shop grabs lo-cals’ cravings with their tasty self-served yo-gurt. Family owned and with a friendly staff, the frozen yogurt shop gives customers their choice of portion as well as a large variety of toppings, including the ever popular Reese’s Pieces, strawberries and so-called super fruit acai. — MB

Baskin Robbins104 N. El Camino Real, 949.492.2440,www.baskinrobbins.com

NOMINEES: Antoine’s Cafe • Avila’s El Ranchito • Baskin Robbins • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli • Cafe 207 • Café Calypso • Cafe Mimosa • Carbonara Trattoria • The Cellar • Cold Stone Creamery • Crispins Comfort Food • Croissant French Bakery • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Golden Spoon Frozen Yogurt • Hector’s Cake Shop & Bakery • Inka Mama’s • Juice It Up • Juice Stop • Jumpin’ Jacks • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Lavender Lounge • Nick’s San Clemente • Panera Bread • Rite Aid Phar-macy • Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shops • San Clemente Yogurt • S.C. Donuts • Schmid’s Fine Chocolates • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Spoon Deep • St. Roy at Vine • Starbucks • Sugar Blossom Bake Shop • Rose’s Sugar Shack Cafe • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Surfi n’ Donuts • Swirl frozen yogurt • The Bakeshop • The Cellar • The Grill at Surfi n’ Donuts • The Shore • Three Dog Bakery • Velvet Yogurt • Zebra House Coffee • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Velvet Yogurt; Silver: Schmid’s Fine Chocolate

Best Margarita

Avila’s El Ranchito204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.5000, www.avilaselranchito.com

Customers of Avila’s El Ranchito can’t get enough of the eatery’s margaritas. Though made with the standard ingredients of tequila, cointreau and fruit juice, the Mexican

restaurant’s mixologists serve the drinks fresh and with love daily, says their very own bartender Avanti Benson. Margarita lovers will also appreciate the options of skinny, blended, on ice or martini style. — MB

La Siesta Mexican Restaurant

920 N El Camino Real, 949.498.3094, www.lasiestasanclemente.com

NOMINEES: BeachFire Bar & Grill • Cafe 207 • Café Calypso • Cafe Mimosa • Carbonara Trattoria • Crispins Comfort Food • Del Agave • Duke’s • El Mariachi • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Goody’s Tavern • Hapa J’s • Inka Mama’s • La Tiendita • Los Patios • Molly Bloom’s • Mulligans Sports Bunker • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Ole’s Tavern • Red Fox Lounge • Rib Trader • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • St. Roy at Vine • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sunsets at the Pier • The Shore 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Avila’s El Ranchito; Silver: El Mariachi

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With unparalleled views and friendly waitstaff Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar takes gold for Best Bar. Photo by Jasmine Smith

La Rocco’s offers many New York-style pies with thin crust, including the Whitestone and Brooklyn pizzas. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

Best Bar



The always popular and consistently voted the best in San Clemente whether for service, location or food, the Fisherman’s is this year’s choice bar. The restaurant and bar boast of beautiful ocean views and plenty of drinks for customers to enjoy. Favorite orders include Cotton’s drink as well as margaritas, Bloody Marys and shrimp cocktails to snack on for appetizers. — MB

Red Fox Lounge220 South El Camino, 949.492.3403

NOMINEES: Adele’s Cafe • Avila’s El Ranchito • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Big Helyn’s Saloon • Board & Brew • Carbonara Trat-toria • Crispins Comfort Food • Duke’s • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Goody’s Tavern • Hapa J’s • Inka Mama’s • Irons in the Fire • Iva Lee’s • Izza Neopoli-tan Pizzeria • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Molly Bloom’s • Mulligans Sports Bunker • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Ole’s Tavern • Outrigger • Pizza Port • Rib Trader • The Riders Club • San Clemente Wine Company • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • St. Roy at Vine • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sunsets at the Pier • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • The Cellar • The Shore • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar; Silver: Beachfi re Bar & Grill

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Best Billiards

Ole’s Tavern 127 S. El Camino Real, 949.498.9400, www.olestavern.com

Two blue tables at the back of Ole’s Tavern beckon amateur pool lovers and pros alike. The bar’s house professional Michael Hurst said the tightly woven tournament-quality cloth and top-notch rubber around the rim make the tables “more true” or more like those used in professional tournaments. Soon, Ole’s hopes to offer lessons and tour-nament play, Hurst said. — SNG

Duke’s 204 S. El Camino Real, 949.481.2040

NOMINEES: BeachFire Bar & Grill • Big Helyn’s Saloon • Duke’s • Goody’s Tavern • Inka Mama’s • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Molly Bloom’s • Mulligans Sports Bunker • Ole’s Tavern • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Outrigger • Red Fox Lounge • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Sunsets at the Pier • The Cellar • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Ole’s Tavern; Silver: Duke’s

At the Shops...

Best Jewelry

Paradise Jewelers808 N. El Camino Real, 949.361.4367, www.paradisejewelers.com

If you’re planning on buying that special someone of yours a sparkly present, Paradise

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Best Venue for Live Music

BeachFire Bar & Grill 204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.3232, www.beachfi re.com

Nearly every night of the week, BeachFire brings in live performers to belt out the tunes and keep customers tapping their toes. Patrons pack the eatery and bar for music, beverages and camaraderie. BeachFire has a packed calendar of entertainment and never has a cover charge, its website says. For those who want to get into the action, Beachfi re of-fers its Smokey Karaoke on Mondays. — SNG

The Cellar156 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3663,www.thecellarsite.com

NOMINEES: Adele’s Cafe • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Blue Danube • Casa Romantica • Casino San Clemente •Catalyst Surf Shop • Duke’s • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Goody’s Tavern • Inka Mama’s • Irons In the Fire • Iva Lee’s • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Molly Bloom’s • Nick’s San Clemente • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Ole’s Tavern • Red Fox Lounge • Rib Trader • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Summer Beach concerts at the Pier • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sunsets at the Pier • Taka-O Japanese Restaurant • The Cabrillo Playhouse • The Cellar • The Kona Gallery • The Shore • Zona’s Italian American Cuisine 2010 WINNERS: Gold: OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar; Silver: Beachfi re Bar & Grill

Jewelers delivers. It’s the jeweler’s selection that gives shoppers options. For rings, that means a variety of sizes, cuts and quality of diamonds, plus metals, settings, stones and styles. The jeweler also sells bracelets, earrings, necklaces and watches for many occasions. — MB

Erba114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.2355, www.shoperba.com

NOMINEES: Angel Wings • Antiques and Unique • Fifi Lala • Gifts on Del Mar • Gino’s Jewelers • Heavenly Couture • Hobie Sports • Jewelry Forever • Luxe Home Furnishings • On The Rocks Jewelers • Paradise Jewelers • Project Habit • Plum Precious Antiques • Rascal’s Ladies • Revival Salon • Ritual of San Clemente • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • San Clemente Antiques & Decor • Sanctuary Salon & Spa • Stella & Dot sold by Katrina Crane • Target • The Third Eye • Twigs • Variant • Villa Cucina 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Erba and Paradise Jewelers; Silver: Variant

Best Wine Selection

San Clemente Wine Company

212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com

If party hosts are looking for a delicious bottle of wine to serve, stop by the San Clemente Wine Company. The shop on Avenida Del Mar features a wide selection of white, red, sparkling and rosé wines. New arrivals sure to please include Altanuta Pinot Grigio 2010 and favorite orders like an Eponymous Ma-cAllister Vineyard Red Wine 2008 and a Fritz

Dry Creek Cabernet Sauvignon 2007. — MB

The Cellar 156 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com

NOMINEES: Albertsons • Antoine’s Café • Beach Front Liquor Store • Bob’s Liquor • Cafe 207 • Cafe Mimosa • Clubhouse Li-quor • Enne Cucina Italiana • Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar • Inka Mama’s • Iva Lee’s • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Nick’s San Clemente • Ralphs • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Trader Joe’s 2010 WINNER: Gold: San Clemente Wine Company; Silver: The Cellar

Best Kid’s Apparel & Toys

Mac & Madi 203 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.6226, www.macandmadi.com

New mothers looking for a spot to brighten up their sons’ or daughters’ rooms love San Clemente’s choice for Best Kids Toys and Apparel, Mac & Madi. The store features a wide selection of decorations, clothes for children from infants to age 12 and picture books to spoil babies and children all over town. Beyond clothing, Mac & Madi also sells strollers, handbooks, diaper bags and slings and carriers. — MB

Petit Bonhomme 147 Avenida Del Mar, 949.361.3651,

www.downtownsanclemente.com/petitbonhomme

NOMINEES: Blue Eyed Girl • Born Platinum • Dewey Weber • Fairytales • Hobie Sports • Mac & Madi • Sears • Target • Wal-mart • Wee Peats 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Mac & Madi; Silver: Petit Bonhomme

Smoothie Jones and Redx Reggae performs at BeachFire on a recent Friday night. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

Ole’s Tavern has earned a reputation for having some of the best pool tables in the area. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

Luxe Home Furnishings210 N. El Camino Real, 949.218.4700

NOMINEES: Angel Wings • Backstreet Home Decor • Bamboo and Beyond • Big Lots • California Cove • Christopher-Lee Ltd. • Consignment Design Concepts • DeNaults TrueValue • Erba • La Casa Verde de Granada • Cottage Bliss • Lowe’s • Pier 1 Im-ports • Re-Finds • Salvation Army Thrift Store • Antiques and Uniques • Stanford Court Antiques • Target • Urban Renewal Decor 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Villa Cucina; Silver: Christopher-Lee Ltd. and Luxe Home Furnishings

Best Store To Buy The Perfect Gift

Villa Cucina 124 Avenida Del Mar, 949.388.7512, www.villacucina.com

Besides winning Best Décor and Furnishings, Villa Cucina is also this year’s Best Store to Buy the Perfect Gift. Villa Cucina comes with an impressive book selection, too, plus jour-nals, hand-gilded and linen photo albums and guest books. For special occasions, shoppers can pick up the special “glitter collection” of photo albums with linen glitter. — MB

Erba114 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.2355, www.shoperba.com

NOMINEES: Angel Wings • Antiques and Uniques • Antoine’s Cafe • Arcade Camera • Artwistic Creations • Bamboo and Beyond • Bliss Boutique • Boutique Del Mar • Bunny’s Secrets • C’ Siren Day Spa • California Cove • La Casa Verde de Granada • ConRev • Cottage Bliss • DeNaults TrueValue • Gifts on Del Mar • Kelly’s Hallmark Shop • Hobie Sports • The Humble Abode • Irish Eyes • Joy’s Christian Bookstore • The Kona Gallery • Look Hair & Makeup Studio • Luxe Home Furnishings • Mac & Madi • The Mole Hole • Oliver’s • Paradise II Jewelry Boutique • Paradise Jewelers • Petit Bonhomme • Pier 1 Imports • Plum Precious Antiques • Republik of Kalifornia • Revival Salon • Russell Stationers • Salon Bamboo • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • San Clemente Antiques & Decor • San Clemente Wine Company • Schmid’s Fine Chocolates • Seaside Skin Care • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • South Coast Furniture & Mattress • Stanford Court Antiques • Stewart Surfboards • Target • The Cellar • The Pac-Rat • The Perfect Ten Nail Salon • The Third Eye • Village Mediterranean Rim • Three Dog Bakery • Variant • Treasures of Heart 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Villa Cucina; Silver: Erba and The Humble Abode

Best Clothing

Angel Wings 204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.218.5258,

www.downtownsanclemente.com/angel_wings_san_clemente

Women and young girls who love to shop, or even just browse, will gravitate to Angel Wings. The spacious store space of Angel Wings is chock full of clothing staples like dresses and sweaters, plenty of accesso-ries and extras like make-up, perfume and lip-gloss. The store rounds out its offerings with shoes and boots, scarves and handbags. — MB

Bliss Boutique167 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.0084,www.shopblissboutique.com

Hobie Sports151 Avenida Del Mar, 949.542.3400www.hobie.com

NOMINEES: $15 Store • $20 & Unda • 5 for $10 • Artwistic Creations • Asana FIT • BC Surf Shop • Bijou • Blue Eyed Girl • Bunny’s Secrets • Cherry Shoes • Fits & Fashion •Fresh Produce • Project Habit • Heavenly Couture • K’s Temptation Boutique • LuLu’s Boutique • Mac & Madi • Minarets • Paradise Jewelers • Petit Bonhomme • Rascal’s Ladies • Republik of Kalifornia • Rip Curl Surf Center • Ritual of San Clemente • Roulette Clothing • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • Salvation Army Thrift Store • Sam’s Shoes & Shoe Repair • San Clemente Antiques & Decor • Sears • Shadow Lounge • Swirl Boutique • The Greater O.C. Woman • T-Shirt Factory Outlet • Target • The Pac-Rat • Trestles Surf Outlet • Variant • Wild at Heart 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Angel Wings; Silver: Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique

and also would like to enjoy some entertain-ment or art. With happy hour and lounges available daily, BeachFire also features some of the city’s best paintings by Dave and Mark Donaldson and music by groups Better Chemistry, Element Zero and Back Porch Blues to name a few. — MB

The Kona Gallery412 North El Camino Real, 949.481.3747,www.thekonagallery.com

NOMINEES: Artwistic Creations • Bamboo and Beyond • Gallery 104 • Luxe Home Furnishings • Ink Gallery • Delanty Studio & Gallery • Villa Cucina • Farmer’s Market • C’ Siren Day Spa • Casa Romantica • La Casa Verde de Granada • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • San Clemente Antiques & De-cor • San Clemente Art Gallery • Village Art Fair • Zebra House Coffee 2010 WINNERS: Gold: BeachFire Bar & Grill; Silver: San Clemente Art Gallery

Best Home Décor and Furnishings

Villa Cucina 124 Avenida Del Mar, 949.388.7512,

www.villacucina.com

Whether new to San Clemente or long-timers, the search for new décor starts with Villa Cucina. The downtown shop has a large selection of furniture, desks, bowls, candles, clocks and more. Shoppers even have the choice of art and fl oral arrangements to decorate until their hearts’ content. — MB

Best Arts & Craft Supplies

Michaels 937 Avenida Pico, 949.940.0465, www.michaels.com

As popular as ever, Michaels offers rather large options for framing, fl orals, beads, scrapbooking and yarn and needle crafts. Possible projects include cupcake holders, beaded necklaces and banners to share. Even fun classes such as Wilton cake decorating, Bead Corner design academy classes and Grumbacher art classes are available. — MB

San Clemente Art Supply 1531 N. El Camino Real, 949.369.6603, www.scartsupply.com

NOMINEES: Russell Stationers • Strands Knitting Studio • The Third Eye • Village Art Fair 2010 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Art Supply; Silver: Michaels

Best Place for Buying or Viewing Art

BeachFire Bar & Grill 204 Avenida Del Mar, 949.366.3232, www.beachfi re.com

San Clemente’s BeachFire is the place to be if locals or visitors are in the mood for a drink

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With a wide selection of art supplies, Michaels is a popular spot for artists, crafters and creative types. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

A perennial favorite by shoppers, Villa Cucina earns high marks for its selection of fashionable home goods and variety of novelties. Photo by Stacie N. Galang


Best Antiques

San Clemente Antiques & Decor

214 Avenida Del Mar #B, 949.498.2992

Vintage fanatics all across town enjoy stop-ping by San Clemente Antiques. With an eclectic variety of both classic and useful items, the store covers all the antique basics: jewelry, books, furniture, clothing, art and China. Unique items also include a Busch telescope and Skoocum Indian dolls.—MB

Antiques and Uniques103 Avenida Del Mar, 949.429.6777,

downtownsanclemente.com/antiquesanduniquessanclemente

Stanford Court Antiques106 Del Mar San Clemente, 949.366.6290, .downtownsanclemente.com/stanford-

courtantiquessanclemente

NOMINEES: La Casa Verde de Granada • Treasures of Heart • Christopher-Lee Ltd. • Luxe Home Furnishings • Consignment Design Concepts • The Pac-Rat • Paradise Jewelers • Re-Finds • Russell Stationers 2010 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Antiques; Silver: The Humble Abode

Best Surf Shop

Hobie Surf Shop 100 El Camino Real, 949.542.3355; 151

Avenida Del Mar, 949.542.3400, www.hobie.com

Long known for a combination of selection and service, Hobie has once again earned the distinction of San Clemente’s favorite surf shop. “Our formula has worked since 1954 because we understand that the most important thing in any retail environment is customer service,” said General Manager Jake Schwaner. “We have deep roots in the community and work hard to respond to the needs of our customers.” —AS

Stewart Surfboards 2102 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1085, www.stewartsurfboards.com

NOMINEES: Basham’s Factory • BC Surf Shop • Catalyst • Dewey Weber • Hobie Green Room • Icons of Surf • Imagine Surf • Noll Surfboards & Gallery • RWorld Surfboards • Republik of Kalifornia • Rip Curl Surf Center • San Clemente Surfboards and Art • T. Patterson Surfboards • Terry Senate Surfboards • Trestles Surf Outlet 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Hobie Sports; Silver: Stewart Surfboards

Best Surfboard Shaper

Bill Stewart/Stewart Surfboards

2102 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.1085, www.stewartsurfboards.com

Bill Stewart has been at the forefront of surf-board art and innovation for more than four decades. Advances in board technology like the 2+1 fi n confi guration and his Hydro Hull beveled rail performance longboards, along with breathtaking airbrush art, has earned him a dedicated worldwide following. If there are waves being ridden, chances are you’ll see a Stewart board in the lineup. —AS

T. Patterson Surfboards 1409 N. El Camino Real, 949.366.2022; 907 S. El Camino Real, 949.366.2022;

www.tpattersonsurfboards.com

NOMINEES: Album Surfboards • Avelino Bastos of Tropical Brazil • Cole Simler • Coolbreaze Surfboards • Dewey Weber • Ding Drx • Donald Brink of Brink Surfboards • Ellis Surfboards • Garth Day of G.Day Surfboards • Ghetto House Glassing • Hamish Graham Designs of Superstix • Hobie Sports • Jed Noll of Noll Surfboards • Jerry O’Keefe of Soul Stix • Kaysen Surf Designs • Mark Reynolds of BK • Matt Biolos of Lost Enterprises and Mayhem • Maurice Agnello • Tim Marshall of Midget Smith • Milton Whilar • Paul Carter • Ron House • RWorld Surfboards • Ryan Engle of Nation Surfboards • Sea-ward Vessel • Terry Martin • Terry Senate Surfboards • Tuttle Surfboards • Tyler Warren 2010 WINNERS: Gold: T. Patterson Surfboards; Silver: Bill Stewart

Best Flowers

Flower & Friends 1844 N. El Camino Real, 949.366.9150, www.fl owersandfriendssanclemente.com

For 21 years, Flowers and Friends has been peddling a rainbow of buds at North Beach. Owner Keith Jones said he buys from his friends and sells to his friends. Jones pur-chases both the imports at the fl ower market and from his local connections in North San

Diego County and Baja California, which al-lows him to bring back the freshest and best fl owers at a better price to locals, his friends. — SNG

Downtown Flowers 111 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.7062, www.downtownfl owersoc.com

NOMINEES: Albertsons • Aloha Flowers • Beach City Florist • Enchanted Fine Florals • Farmer’s Market • Flower Company of San Clemente • Inga’s Blooms • Kimberly’s Flowers • McKenna Floral • San Clemente Florist • Shore Gardens • The Humble Abode • Trader Joe’s • Wildfl ower Floral 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Downtown Flowers; Silver: Flower & Friends

Services on the To-Do-List...

Best Overall Customer Service

Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique

641 Camino de los Mares, 949.429.2020, www.salonzinnia.com

At Salon Zinnia, it doesn’t take just employ-ees but a team to run this bustling salon and boutique off Camino de los Mares. And what a team they are — nearly 20 stylists, a pair of estheticians, a duo of nail artists and a handful of salon coordinators. Clients have clamored after the salon’s service. The team’s care with customers has earned the Salon Zinnia top nods from San Clemente. —SNG


611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390,www.thefi shermansrestaurant.com

NOMINEES: $20 & Unda • 5 Elements Day Spa • Adele’s Cafe • Albertsons • Angel Wings • Antiques and Uniques • Antoine’s Cafe • Anytime Fitness • Artwistic Creations • Asana FIT • Avila’s El Ranchito • Bamboo and Beyond • BeachFire Bar & Grill • Billy’s Meat, Seafood & Deli • Bliss Boutique • Board & Brew • Bonded Cleaners • Bonnie’s Skin Care • Born Platinum • The Brow Boutique •C’ Siren Day Spa • Cafe Mimosa • Café Calypso • Captain Mauri’s • Carbonara Trattoria • Chase Bank • Christopher-Lee Ltd. • ConRev • Coolbreaze Surfboards • Courtesy Automotive Services • Cox Communications • Crispins Comfort Food • Cycle Werks • Dealer Socket CRM • Del Agave • Del Mar Beauty Supply •Del Mar Watch & Clock Shoppe • DeNaults TrueValue • Dewey’s TV & Home Appli-ances • DGIII & Associates Real Estate • Downtown Flowers • Dr. Eric Johnson, DDS • Duke’s • Eco Friendly Lawns • El Camino Auto • Enchanted Fine Florals • Erba • Finish Line Tires & Automotive • Fits & Fashion • Flowers & Friends • Fratello’s Italian Family Restaurant • Garrison Property Services, Inc. • Griffi n Optometric Group • Hanson’s Market • Hapa J’s • Hobie Surf Shop • Holley’s Tires • Humphry’s Sandwich Shop • Inka Mama’s • Iva Lee’s • Izza Neopolitan Pizzeria • Juice It Up • K&S Cleaners • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • La Casa Verde de Granada • La Galette Creperie • Link Web Services • Look Hair & Makeup Studio • Los Patios • Lowe’s • Luxe Home Furnish-ings • Mac & Madi • Mathnasium • Modest Spot Salon • Molly Blooms • Nails by Karen Dispenza • Nic’s Vacuum and Small Appliance • OC Tykes • Ocean Physical Therapy • OceanaFit Yoga • Ole’s Tavern • OCFS 60 • Paradise II Jewelry Boutique • Paradise Jewelers • The Perfect Ten Nail Salon • Pet Treasures • Petit Bonhomme • Pets Plus • Pipes Cafe • ProfessioNail & Spa • Rocco’s Restaurant • Ralphs • Rascal’s Ladies • Republik of Kalifornia • Revival Salon • ReVol Nail Spa • The Riders Club Cafe • Robert Dantel Plumbing • Roulette Clothing • Sally Beauty Supply • Salon Bamboo • Salon Bleu • Salon Incognito • Sam’s Shoes & Shoe Repair • San Clemente Antiques & Decor • San Clemente Gym • San Clemente Veterinary Hospital • San Clemente Villas by the Sea • San Clemente Wine Company • Sanctuary Salon & Spa • S.C. Donuts • Schmid’s Fine Choco-lates • Seaside Skin Care • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Shore Gardens • Skullcandy • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • South Coast Furniture & Mattress • St. Roy at Vine • Starbucks • Stater Bros. • Stud Cuts • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • Sunsets at the Pier • Talega Animal Hospital • Talega Day Spa • Talega Golf Club •The Brow Boutique • The Cellar • The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf • The Grill at Surfi n’ Donuts • The Inn at Calafi a • The Mole Hole • The Perfect Ten Nail Salon • The Shore • Three Dog Bakery • Tina & Vince’s Italian Delicatessen • Trader Joe’s • V’s Barbershop • Variant • Velvet Yogurt • VIP Pet Spa • Waves Beyond Skin Care • Wells Fargo Bank • Wildfl ower Floral • Z Pizza • Zebra House Coffee 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique; Silver: Villa Cucina

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Flower and Friends has been in business at North Beach since 1991. Photo by Alyssa Garrett

Surfboard shaper Billy Stewart meets with customers. Photo by Andrea Swayne


Best Manicure & Pedicure



Salon Zinnia’s dynamic nail artists have fi led their way to a Golden Ole this year. The manicure and pedicure specialists bring years of experience to nails, offering standard and special treatments, including silk wraps and gel French and gel lacquer manicures. “Let our experienced staff give you the VIP treat-ment and introduce you to the real mean-ing of the phrase ‘buffer zone,’” the salon’s website says. — SNG

Mingee’s Nails & Spa 132 Avenida Del Mar, 949.498.0070; 164 Avenida Del Mar, 949.369.1818

NOMINEES: Allure Nails & Spa • Beauty Nails • Bellagio Nail Spa • Bonnie’s Skin Care • Changes Hair Salon • Fashion Nails • Final Touch Nails & Spa • Hair Country • Happy Nails & Spa • Nails by Karen Dispenza • Kim’s Nail & Spa • LeeLee’s Salon & Boutique • Ma Jolie All Organic Salon • Minart’s • Modest Spot Salon • Natural Nails by Edith • Ocean View Nails • ProfessioNail & Spa • ReVol Nail Spa • Salon Bamboo • Salon Real • Seaside Skin Care • Sweet Escape • Talega Day Spa • The Perfect Ten Nail Salon • V Nails Boutique 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Mingee’s Nails & Spa; Silver: Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique

Best Hair Salon



A veritable beehive of activity, Salon Zinnia offers the gamut of services: haircuts, up-dos for special events, hair treatments, coloring, highlights and more. With about 20 stylists, the salon is bound to match a client to the right personality and expertise to ensure your tresses turn out the way you like them. The salon also features special hair product lines, including Enjoy and Morrocan Oil. — SNG

Salon Bamboo150 Avenida Del Mar Ste. A, 949.361.3348www.salonbamboo.com

NOMINEES: Ageless Generation Day Spa • Alicia’s Barber Shop • Ardra Hair Salon • Bella Tu Salon • Bonnie’s Skin Care • Carlisles Hair Design • Changes Hair Salon • Cindy Moore’s • Clips ‘n Curls • Ermanno DeVito Hair Studio • Fantastic Sams • Hair Affair • Hair Country • Hair Sculptors Beauty Salon • Hairtique • Hairwaves Beauty Salon • The Haircutters • Head Games Salon • Jerry’s Barber Shop • Jimenez Beauty Salon • Kreative Hair Design • Look Hair & Makeup Studio • Ma Jolie All Organic Salon • Martina’s Beauty Salon • Meno Michael Salon & Spa • Modest Spot Salon • North Beach Hair Studio

•Ray’s Barber Place • Revival Salon • Rtistic • Salon 221 • Salon Bleu • Salon Incognito • Sanctuary Salon & Spa • S.C. Happy Hair • Shake It Design • Salon Rendez-Vous • Stud Cuts • Studio B • Supercuts • Syrens Hair Parlor • Toba Salon 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Salon Zinnia And Lifestyle Boutique; Silver: Salon Incognito

Best Barbershop

V’s Barbershop 802 Avenida Talega, 949.429.7770, www.vbarbershop.com

Forget technology. At V’s Barbershop, you get a good ole’ fashioned haircut. If you’re a man, that is. V’s caters to men and boys, providing the long-lost details, such as a straight-razor shave and hot-towel neck, shoulder and head massage. “We’re a premium, high quality, high service barber shop,” said owner John Renaud. Men’s haircuts are $25, but there’s a senior discount during the week and boys are $16. — JV

The Señor Barbers 401 S. El Camino Real, 949.361.0762

NOMINEES: A Cut Above • Alicia’s Barber Shop • Bladewerks • Downtown Barber Shop • The Haircutters • Jerry’s Barber Shop • JP’s • Modest Spot Salon • Popeye’s for Hair • Ray’s Barber Place • Salon Bamboo • Salon Incognito • Salon Real • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • Shore Cliff Barber Shop • Sports Clips • Stud Cuts • Supercuts 2010 WINNERS: Gold: V’s Barbershop and Stud Cuts; Silver: The Señor Barbers

Best Grooming/Pet Care

VIP Pet Spa 810 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.7473www.vippetspa.com

It got to the point where Kristin Hrenkevich couldn’t stand to sit behind a desk. She’d always loved pets, and found a grooming business for sale. That was seven years ago, and VIP Pet Spa has been a customer favorite ever since. “Everybody works here loves dogs and cats and we’re happy to be here at work,” Hrenkevich said. “Customers see that and understand that.” — JV

San Clemente Veterinary Hospital

1833 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.5777,www.sanclementeveterinaryhospital.com

NOMINEES: Alicia Pet Care • Aussie Pet Mobile • Avenida Animal Hospital • Beach Dawg • Camp Bow Wow • Critters Pet Grooming • Mike’s Pet Care • Mobile Dog Wash • OC Parrott Nanny • Pacifi c Coast Veterinary Hospital • Paws Pet Resorts • Pet Spa • Pet Treasures • Pete’s Pet Palace • Pets Plus • Retropolis • Talega Animal Hospital • The Pet Palace • Three Dog Bakery 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Mike’s Pet Care; Silver: VIP Pet Spa

Best Gym

San Clemente Gym 123 S. El Camino Real, 949.361.1007, www.sanclementegym.com

Time was that San Clemente Gym was a place to throw around some serious iron. But that was before Eric Lucy took over. Now, the 33-year-old gym is family-friendly—they even added childcare last year—and caters to what Lucy calls a perfect microcosm of San Clem-ente. “We’ve got real estate lawyers working out with high school kids,” Lucy said. “It’s not corporate-owned, we still have guys who have a key so they can come in early.” — SNG

Fitness 19 93 Via Pico Plaza, 949.369.1999, www.fi tness19.com

NOMINEES: Anytime Fitness • Asana FIT • Beachfi t SC • BT Fitness • Crossfi t Orange County • Curves • Eric Lucy • Fitness Elite • North Beach Kettlebell • OceanaFit Yoga • Outdoor Fitness Adventure Club • San Clemente Boot Camp • Sunset Fitness • Xtreme Fitness 2010 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Gym; Silver: Fitness 19

VIP Pet Care owner Kristen Hrenkevich grooms a Portuguese water dog. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

A group of the staff and stylists of Salon Zinnia have won over customers with their hair services, manicures and pedicures. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

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John Renaud has owned of V’s Barbershop in Talega Village Center. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

Todd Hentsch and Chelsea Cruz are two of SC Gym’s many trainers. Photo by Stacie N. Galang


Best Yoga/Pilates Studio

asanaFIT 204 Avenida Granada, 949.492.0110, www.asanafi t.com

The staff at asanaFIT continue to center San Clemente’s chi, and in addition to maintaining one of the hippest yoga and Pilates studio, they offer a variety of classes every day of the week. Hot yoga sessions are held in the moon room, a studio with a sauna-feel to give a more authentic yoga experience. Or maybe its a muscle-stretching Pilate’s course you’re looking for? Whatever the body and mind are looking for, asanaFIT has it all. —EG

OceanaFit Yoga929 Calle Negocio, 949.388.6700, www.oceanafi t.com

NOMINEES: Bella Pilates Studio • Beyond Hot Yoga • Body Awareness • BodyMovin’ Yoga • BT Fitness • Curves • Fitness 19 • Fitness Elite for Women • Hot Yoga Boot Camp • Jes-sica Seaburn of San Clemente Recreation • Outdoor Fitness Adventure Club • The Practice Yoga Studio • San Clemente Self Defense 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Asana FIT; Silver: Bella Pilates

Best Spa & Massage

Talega Day Spa 1161 Puerta del Sol, Ste. 110, 949.429.5757, www.talegadayspa.com

Talega Day Spa is an oasis in a less likely

location: a business park. Spa Coordinator Minh Luong said the spa makes its customers the “utmost priority.” With its Tuscan theme, soothing music and welcoming decor, the spa on Puerta Del Sol lets clients shed the out-side world and embrace a new, calming world where relaxing massages, body treatments and cosmetic applications reign. —SNG

Salon Bamboo 150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A, 949.361.3348, www.salonbamboo.com

NOMINEES: 5 Elements Day Spa • Ageless Generation Day Spa • Bellagio Nail Spa • Bonnie’s Skin Care • C’ Siren Day Spa • Hair Sculptors Beauty Salon • Richard C. Roth Chiropractic • Kim’s Nail & Spa • Massage Envy • Mingee’s Nails & Spa • Ocean Foot Spa • ReVol Nail Spa • Ritual of San Clemente • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • Sanctuary Salon & Spa • Seaside Skin Care • Simple Touch Skincare • Sun Kiss’d Tan & Boutique • The Brow Boutique • The Green Room • Waves Beyond Skin Care 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Talega Day Spa; Silver: C’ Siren Day Spa

Best Car Repair

Shadetree Automotive1635 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.6470, www.shadetreeautomotive.com

It’s gotten so you can just about count on Shadetree winning “Best Care Repair” as much as you can depend on your vehicle if it’s serviced by Shadetree. Owner Paul Huff-man and his crew not only keep your car on the road—whether it’s American-made or an import—they keep their customers’ confi -dence, and keep them coming back. — JV

Coastline Automotive174 Avenida Navarro, 949.492.8572

NOMINEES: Arnold’s Auto Repair • Auto Medic • B&M Auto Body • Beach Cities Auto Collision • Big O Tires • Bill Brewster Automotive • Bob’s Auto Repair • Certifi ed Rebuilders • Cour-tesy Automotive Services • Dave Wert Auto Repair • Discount Tire Centers • El Camino Auto • Frank’s Auto Collision • Frank’s Foreign Car Service • Holley’s Tires • Jay’s Car Repair • Jimenez Auto Center • Klink’s Auto Repair • Littlepage Automotive • Midas • Nicoll Racing • RJ’s • San Clemente Auto Care • San Clemente Auto Collision • San-O-Mechanic • Shorecliff’s Auto Service • Top Tune Auto Care • Victoria Auto Repair • West Coast Automotive 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Shadetree Automo-tive; Silver: Bob’s Auto Repair and Frank’s Auto Collision

Best Tire Shop

Jimmy’s Tires911 Avenida Pico, 949.492.4500, www.jimmystirecenters.com

Jimmy’s Tire Center has been a successful family business for 35 years. First as Jim’s Tires and for the last 10 years as Jimmy’s Tire Center, the shop features a welcoming environment and friendly staff as well as great prices and easy accessibility. Wheel alignments, wheel balance and tire and wheel service are also available. — MB

Holley’s Tire Service1225 North El Camino Real, 949.492.4733

NOMINEES: Big O Tires • Bob’s Auto Repair • Discount Tire Centers • El Camino Auto • San Clemente Auto Care • San-O-Mechanic • Wal-mart

Best Jeweler

Paradise Jewelers808 N. El Camino Real, 949.361.4367,www.paradisejewelers.com

Three solid decades of experience and a vast selection have given Paradise Jewelers the edge. The jewelers on El Camino Real have 1,000 engagement rings and in the desired metal whether it’s white gold, yellow gold, palladium or platinum. In addition, the jew-eler has a craftsman on staff with more than 30 years experience and specialized training. Paradise provides engraving, ring resizing, stone settings and pearl restringing. —SNG

Gino’s Jewelers139 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.5055www.downtownsanclemente.com/ginos

NOMINEES: Angel Wings • Del Mar Watch & Clock Shoppe • Erba • Fifi Lala• Jewelry Forever • On the Rocks Jewelers • Paradise II Jewelry Boutique • Plum Precious Antiques • Salon Zinnia and Lifestyle Boutique • Sand & Sea Jewelry • Slavick’s Gold Creations • Variant

Dry Cleaners

Bonded Cleaners1225 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.1183,www.bonded-cleaners.com

Bonded Cleaners has been spiffi ng up San Clementeans for three decades. With outstanding and quick service to please, the business has won over its customers year after year. The cleaners provide same-day service, alterations, spot removal and hem-ming along with their dry cleaning. And if girls and women need a prom dress or special bridal gown boxed, Bonded is the place to go. — MB

K&S Cleaners114 S. El Camino Real, 949.492.5424,www.sanclementedrycleaners.com

NOMINEES: Baroni Cleaners, Tailoring & Tuxedos • El Camino Cleaners • Luckys Dry Cleaners • Nelson’s Cleaners • Pico Cleaners • Premiere Cleaners • Presidio Cleaners • San Clem-ente Shine Cleaners • Seaside Cleaners • Sunny Fresh Cleaners • Talega Cleaners • Thank You Cleaners 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Bonded Cleaners; Silver: K & S Cleaners

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Members take part in a Hot Yin Yoga class on one of asanaFIT’s studios. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

Minh Luong, spa coordinator at Talega Day Spa, shows the Vichy shower room. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

Gaby Hernandez, owners Greg Suding and Scott English and Schyler Kaminski are all a part of Bonded Cleaners’ success. Photo by Stacie N. Galang


Best Lodging

Beachcomber Motel533 Avenida Victoria, 949.492-5457,www.beachcombermotel.com

With beach views, close proximity to all the necessities and cozy rooms, the Beachcomb-er Motel is as accommodating as it gets, especially for those in search of California vibes. An outdoor fi re pit and grills are avail-able as well. Add great customer service and a well-maintained and clean establishment and it’s no surprise that Beachcomber is top choice. — EG

Casa Tropicana610 Avenida Victoria, 949.492.1234,www.casatropicana.com

NOMINEES: Always Inn Bed & Breakfast • Best Western Casa-blanca • Budget Lodge • The Inn at Calafi a • Garden Cottage Inn • Hampton Inn & Suites • Holiday Inn • Holiday Inn Express • Little Inn by the Beach Hotel • San Clemente Cove Resort • The San Clemente Inn Resort • Seahorse Resort 2010 WIN-NERS: Gold: The San Clemente Inn; Silver: Holiday Inn

Getting Outside...

Best Beach

T StreetIt’s no wonder that San Clem-

ente voted T Street the best beach in town. Trafalgar Street Beach gains points because it’s easy to access and a bit off the tourist radar, meaning it’s less crowded especially in summer months. T Street also has public restrooms and food facilities, key features for families. The city also recently spiffed up the overpass down to the sand, making the trek that much more pleasant. — MB

Pier AreaNOMINEES: 204 Beach • Calafi a • Cotton’s Point • Pier • Lasuens/Lost Winds • Linda Lane • Mariposa • North Beach • Old Man’s • Poche • Riviera • San Clemente State Park • Trestles 2010 WINNERS: Gold: T Street; Silver: San Clemente State Beach/Calafi a

Best Place to Take Out of

Towners


611 Avenida Victoria, 949.498.6390,www.thefi shermansrestaurant.com

Fisherman’s, along with earning Best Bar, is also the best place to take a new visitor to San Clemente. With a great view any time of the day and fresh fi sh, including lobster, shrimp and salmon served as an essential menu order, customers are guaranteed to return to the seafood restaurant on the Pier the next time they head to the beach. —MB

San Clemente PierAvenida Victoria and Avenida Del Mar

NOMINEES: 204s • Antoine’s Cafe • Avenida Del Mar • Avila’s El Ranchito • Beach • Beach Trail • Beachcomber Motel • Beach

Garden Cafe • Board & Brew • Cafe Mimosa • Calafi a State Beach • Casa Romantica • C’ Siren Day Spa • Enne Cuncina Italiana • Goody’s Tavern • Hapa J’s • Ichibiri’s San Clemente • Inka Mama’s • Iva Lee’s • Knuckleheads Sports Bar • La Siesta Mexican Restaurant • Nick’s San Clemente • Park Semper Fi • OC Tavern Grill & Sports Bar • Pedro’s Tacos • Pipes Cafe • Pizza Port • Red Fox Lounge • Rib Trader • Riviera Beach • San Clemente State Beach • San Clemente Wine Company • Schmid’s Fine Chocolates • Seaside Skin Care • Selma’s Chicago Pizzeria • Sonny’s Pizza & Pasta • Sundried Tomato American Bistro • The Cellar • The Inn at Calafi a • The Rider’s Club Cafe • Village Mediterranean Rim • Three Dog Bakery • T Street 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Fisherman’s Restaurant and Bar; Silver: San Clemente Pier

Best Surf Break

T StreetAt T Street, surfi ng is made

easy. The area above has street and metered parking. For wave riders looking for a quick surfi ng fi x, T Street just works. “A large sand bar makes the water shallow almost out to the break,” the city website says. So any time of year and virtually all day light hours, surf-ers can be spotted with their boards walking the overpass down to the sand. — SNG

TrestlesNOMINEES: Calafi a • Churches • Cotton’s Point • Dog Patch • Lasuens/Lost Winds • Lowers • North Beach • Old Man’s • Pier • Riviera • San Clemente • The Hole • Uppers 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Trestles; Silver: T Street

Best Park

San Gorgonio Park2916 Via San Gorgonio

For those who love to enjoy a nice, sunny day in San Clemente, but would prefer to stay dry and sand free, San Gorgonio Park is the place

to go. The park has plenty of green space to lounge on and enjoy a picnic with friends. the park also has baseball fi elds, tennis courts and a playground for kids who love to play outdoors. —MB

Max Berg Plaza Park1100 Calle Puente

NOMINEES: Calafi a Park • Forster Ranch Community Park • Leslie Park • Liberty Park • Linda Lane Park • Marblehead Park • San Clemente State Park • Richard T. Steed Memorial Park • Tierra Grande/Red Barn Park 2010 WINNERS: Gold: Linda Lane Park; Silver: San Gorgonio Park

Best Golf

San Clemente Municipal Golf Course

150 E. Avenida Magdalena, 949.361.8380, www.sanclementegc.com

San Clemente Municipal Golf Course – The greens have never been greener and the views never better than at the one and only San Clemente Municipal Golf Course. The grounds are impeccable, the pro shop is top shelf and the driving range is beautiful. The course rounds out its offerings with Irons in the Fire, the restaurant and bar where players can unwind after swinging away at 18 holes. — EG

Talega Golf Club 990 Avenida Talega, 949.369.6226, www.talegagolfclub.com

NOMINEES: Bella Collina • SC Golf Club • Shorecliffs Golf Club 2010 WINNERS: Gold: San Clemente Municipal Golf Course; Silver: Talega Golf Club

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Reilly Gardner and Nick Podley walk the beach after surfi ng at T-Street. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

Innkeepers John and Karen Gabay have operated the Beachcomber for 31 years. Photo by Stacie N. Galang

HOME GROWN BAND 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Visit Zona’s for dinner and live music with San Clemente’s “Home Grown Band” playing Bluegrass music. 647 Camino de Los Mares, San

Clemente, 949.970.4568, ZonaItalianRestaurant.com.

THE WHITE HOUSE GARDEN 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Casa Romantica hosts the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibit featuring images of 18 acres of gardens, secluded retreats and parkland. 415 Avenida Granada, San Clem-ente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org.

TARYN DONATH 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.


SCSan Clemente

YOUR SEVEN-DAY EVENT PLANNER

GETTING OUT

THE LISTA day-by-day guide to what’s happening in and around town. COMPILED BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

thursday 26

“RUN FOR YOUR WIFE” 8 p.m. Comedic play at Cabrillo Playhouse. Shows through Jan. 29. $15. 202 Avenida Cabrillo, San Clemente, 949.492.0465, www.cabrilloplayhouse.org.

JEFF PETERSON 7:30 p.m. The Slack Key star plays at DP Community House. $25. 24642 San Juan Ave., Dana Point, 949.842.2227, www.lordofthestringsconcerts.com.

THE RYZING NICK TERRAFRANCA 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Live music at Wind and Sea. 34699 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.496.6500, www.windandsearestaurants.com.

SPANISH WINE TASTING 5:30 p.m.-9 p.m. $12 for five wines at San Clemente Wine Company. 212 1/2 Avenida Del Mar, 949.429.7067, www.scwinecompany.com.

HART & SOUL 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Live music at Adele’s. 2600 Avenida Del Presidente, San Clemente, 949.481.1222, www.adelesatthesanclementeinn.com.

DUSTIN FRANKS 10 p.m. Live music at Molly Blooms Irish Bar & Restaurant. 2391 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.218.0120, www.mollybloomspub.com.

friday27

COOKING CLASS 7 p.m. Cooking class hosted by Chef Nicola at Enna Cucina. $35. Call for reservations. 481 Via Suerte, San Clemente, 949.492.1089, www.ennecucina.com.

MONDAY NIGHT LAUGHS 9 p.m.-11 p.m. Live stand-up comedy at Hennessey’s Tavern. 34111 La Plaza, Dana Point, 949.488.0121, www.hennesseystavern.com.

monday 30

Have an event?Send your listing to [email protected]

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

WYLAND ART LESSONS IN THE WILD 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. Special art event by Dana Wharf aboard the Ocean Adventure Catamaran. Cost $44-$59. 34675 Golden Lantern,

Dana Point, 949.496.5794, www.danawharf.com.

COVER FIRE 2:30 p.m. Live music at Swallow’s Inn. 31786 Camino Capistrano, 949.493.3188, www.swallowsinn.com.

TOOLS FOR CHANGE 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The Ecology Center’s new interactive exhibition, featuring sustainable household products, a play area and learning space for children, and special weekend events. Open Saturdays and Sundays. 32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano, 949-443-4223, www.TheEcologyCenter.org.

sunday 29

WILL HEARD 9 p.m. Live music at BeachFire and Taco Tuesday. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

BEN POWELL 7 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

CHERYL SILVERSTEIN 6 p.m.-9 p.m. The vocalist performs at Renaissance. 24701 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.661.6003, www.renaissance-danapoint.com.

tuesday 31

GARDEN TOURS 10:15 a.m.-10:45 a.m. Explore Mission San Juan Capist-rano with a tour guide. Free with paid admission of $5–$9. 26801 Ortega

Hwy., 949.234.1300, www.missionsjc.com.

MISSY ANDERSEN 7 p.m.-11 p.m. Live music at The Cellar. 156 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.3663, www.thecellarsite.com.

VINE WINE TASTING 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Four wines paired with food at Vine; $40 per person. 211 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.9376, www.vinesanclemente.com.

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FITNESS BOOT CAMP 9:30 a.m. San Clemente Boot Camp holds a free workout session at the RSC Tennis & Fitness Club for anyone ages of 18 - 55. 111

Avenida Vista Montana, San Clemente, 949.929.0140, www.SanClementeBootCamp.com.

LIVING ART GALLERY ART SHOW 12 p.m.-8 p.m. New art exhibit titled “The Panelists” on display through Feb. 14. Free admission. 3107 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949-294-6424, www.sclivingartgallery.com.

21ST ANNUAL SCHS JUNIOR CHEER CLINIC 9 a.m.-12 p.m. The San Clemente High School cheerlead-ers host the clinic in the school gym. Junior cheerleaders will then perform 6:30 p.m. Feb. 6 at the basketball game. 700 Avenida Pico, 949.939.8670, [email protected].

FUNDRAISING CAR WASH 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Get your car washed in the Wal-Mart parking lot with proceeds help-ing San Clemente’s adopted 2nd Battalion 4th Marines. 951 Avenida Pico, 760.763.0183, www.san-clemente.org.

MR. J 8 p.m.-11 p.m. Live band set with Mr. J, dinner and dancing at Salt Creek Grille. 32802 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com.

SOCIAL GREEN 9 p.m. Live music at BeachFire. No cover. 204 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.366.3232, www.beachfire.com.

saturday 28

QUEENSRYCHE’S GEOFF TATE UNPLUGGED7 p.m. Concert at The Coach House. Tickets $25. Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.496.8930, www.thecoachhouse.com.

While there’s very little on Geoff Tate’s solo debut that couldn’t fit within the ever-evolving musical scope of Queensrÿche, the difference of a solo album lies in the expression of those songs and how they actually came to fruition.

SCT: Who are the “and friends” at your acoustic set? Tate: I think that some of the best mu-sic comes from collaboration, and some of the best collaboration comes from playing music with people that you care about and have a history with. I feel fortunate that my closest friends will be joining me for these concerts, friends that I have been playing music with for most of my life. Jason Ames on guitar and vocal, Lyle Ronglien on guitar and vocal, Randy Gane on keyboards, and Chris Zukas on guitar. After dinner at my home, the guitars usually are brought out and a

jam session ensues. These concerts and this tour are really just an extension of that. Good friends, good wine, music and stories shared.

Your birthday is coming up January 14. How do you plan to celebrate? It is tradition in my family to celebrate one’s birthday for the entire month so... 17 days to go.

Geoff Tate performs at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano Sunday, January 29. Doors open at 5 p.m. Show starts at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25. For tickets, visit www.geofftate.com. For information, see www.queensryche.com. —A.J. Bardzilowski

ON STAGE: GEOFF TATE AND FRIENDS ACOUSTIC SET

Courtesy photo


Bobcats vs. Lakers,Staples CenterJanuary 31, 7:30 p.m.

After two games on the road against Minne-sota and Milwaukee, the purple and gold head back to Staples Center for a game against Charlotte.Info: www.nba.com/lakers4SC

San Clemente

STORIES, SCORES, SCHEDULES & MORE

SPORTS& OUTDOORS 5 BEST BETS

Highlanders vs. Anteaters,Bren Events CenterJanuary 28, 5 p.m.

UC Irvine’s men’s basket-ball team gets set for a conference battle with UC Riverside as the Anteaters are poised to snap a losing skid.Info: www.ucirvinesports.com

Thunder vs. Clippers, Staples CenterJanuary 30, 7:30 p.m.

Back from a road game against Denver, the elec-trifying Clippers get set to face Oklahoma City in this Western Conference showdown. Info: www.nba.com/clippers

Mustangs vs. Tritons, San Clemente HighJanuary 31, 5 p.m.

The Lady Tritons close out the month of January with a key South Coast League match against the girls from Trabuco Hills High.Info: www.sctritons.com

COLLEGE BASKETBALL BASKETBALL GIRLS SOCCER BASKETBALL HOCKEY

Stars vs. Ducks,Honda CenterFebruary 1, 7:30 p.m.

Following a double dose of road games, the Anaheim Ducks return to home ice for a hard-hitting contest with the Dallas Stars.Info: www.ducks.nhl.com

BOYS BASKETBALL • The Tritons (2-3 SVL, 11-11) suffered recent back-to-back losses. On January 18, the team was out-played by the Mustangs as San Clemente fell 56-47 in league play. Down 26-23 at the half, the Tritons kept it close in the third quarter, outscoring Trabuco Hills 12-11 in that frame, before crumbling down the stretch in the fourth quarter. Blake Kubly had another big game for the Tritons as he led the team with 20 points, while Brock Eissman fi nished with 14.

Then on January 20, the team hosted another league contest against Aliso Niguel and was eventually nipped by the Wolverines, 52-48. However, the Tritons got out to an early lead throughout the fi rst two frames, entering the second half up 23-22. But, a third quarter offensive attack by Aliso left San Clemente trailing 39-30 with the defi cit too much to handle for the Tri-tons in the fourth quarter. Jake Terkoski had a team high 16 points in the loss while Kubly netted 12 points. Next 7 days: Jan. 27 at *Laguna Hills, 7 p.m.

GIRLS BASKETBALL • The Lady Tritons (3-2 SCL, 13-6) were throttled by Laguna Hills on the road January 17 in a 73-45 loss. San Clemente leaped to a 12-9 lead after the fi rst half but had its offense held in check for the fi nal three frames with Laguna Hills using strong perfor-mances in the second and third periods to spur on the win. For San Clemente, Brogan Griffi n had a team high of 15 points.

The girls played away at cross-town rival Dana Hills on January 19 and got a little retribution from its earlier lopsided loss, hammering the Lady Dolphins in a 59-30 victory. On the night, Griffi n led with 11 points followed by Jessica Degree and Gabby McGann who each fi nished with eight points.

The team went on to host El Toro on January 23 followed by another non-league home game against Capo Valley on January 26. Next 7 days: Jan. 28 at West Hills, 7 p.m.; Jan. 30 at *Mission Viejo, 7 p.m.

BOYS SOCCER • Things got dicey for the Tritons (4-0-1 SCL, 14-4-3) in its last two matches. On January 18, the team hit the road for a showdown with Aliso Ni-guel and ended up tying the Wolverines, 1-1. With both teams knotted 0-0 heading into the second half of play, each ended up fi nding the back of the net once. Sam Merritt kicked in the lone goal for San Clemente off an assist from Danny Martinez. At goal, Elias Licea fi nished with six saves.

The team then hosted a home con-test against El Toro on January 20 and beat the Chargers 4-3. Tied at 1-1 after the fi rst half of play, both teams traded

Triton Report

By David Zimmerle

goals in the second half with the Tritons spoiling the possible upset by outscoring its opponent 3-2 in the second half. Gage Zerboni recorded a hat trick of three goals while Jake Hendrickson fi nished with one goal. Next 7 days: Jan. 27 at Capo Valley, 3:15 p.m.

GIRLS SOCCER • The Lady Tritons (4-0-1 SCL, 13-2-5) had trouble taking down Aliso Niguel on January 17 as both teams wrapped the match in a 0-0 tie. Sheridan Hapsic fi nished with seven saves at goal for San Clemente.

Next, the team traveled to take on El Toro January 19, beating the Lady Chargers by the fi nal score of 2-0. Nikki Faris and Kelly Jameson each knocked in one goal apiece for San Clemente in this impressive shutout victory. Hapsic also fi nished out the match with four saves at goal. Next 7 days: Jan. 31 vs. *Trabuco Hills, 5 p.m.

GIRLS WATER POLO • The Lady Tritons (5-0 SCL, 9-9) resumed its South Coast League schedule of games with back-to-back wins. On January 17, San Clemente rattled Capo Valley on the road in an 18-5 win, posting six goals in the fi rst two periods, while heading into the second half with a comfortable 12-0 lead before putting the game into cruise control for the fi nal two periods. Candyce Schroeder had a team high six goals in the win while Tiffany Grey and Kelsey Thornton each fi nished with fi ve goals apiece. Nicolle Mannion also had a great performance with three goals in the win.

The team then took on El Toro Janu-ary 19 and beat the Lady Chargers, 8-4. Up 4-2 at the half, San Clemente held its opponent scoreless in the third period before trading goals in the fourth en route to the big league win. Thornton was nearly unstoppable all game, fi nish-ing with fi ve goals scored while Cassidy Smithson had two goals. Next 7 days: Jan. 27 vs. Edison at Golden West CC, 3 p.m.

WRESTLING • Touting its 2-1 record in the South Coast League after posting wins against Mission Viejo and Trabuco Hills with a loss to top-tiered Laguna Hills earlier this month, the Tritons wrestling team entered the SC Rotary Tournament at home on January 21 and fi nished out the day with a second-place fi nish with 255 points behind fi rst place Temecula (281 points) and in front of third place La Costa Canyon (197 points).

Top individuals fi nishers were Daniel Garcia (106, third place), Jacob Sandoval (113, fi rst), Jacob Clifton (120, second), Tim Parten (126, third), John Castellini (132, fi rst), Christopher Lopez (138, third), Nathan Clifton (145, third), Justin Feldman (160, third), Ash Ryan (195, third) and Austin Aceves (220, second).

The team next faced Capo Valley at home in its fi nal South Coast League dual of the season on January 24. Next 7 days: Jan. 28 at MIT & MIT Gold Tour-nament at LB Millikan, TBA

San Clemente High’s frosh/soph soccer team after winning the recent Nike South County Classic Tournament. Pictured are (back row, from left) Eddie Molina, Blayne Martinez, Joel Rabbins, Neecon Raji, Aidan Sarjeant, Andrew Stefaniak, Alex Drabkin, Leon Theising, Juan Hernandez, Lucas Tomlinson, Skyler Mizokami, coach Jesse Hardeman, (middle row) Chase Fleming, Christopher Mendoza, JD Toland, Enrique Corales, Luis Pantoja, Fernando Perez, (front row) Liam McVicar, Brian Delgado, Carlos Berber and Jose Moreno.

FROSH/SOPH TEAM SETS NEW SCHOOL RECORDSCHS’s frosh/soph soccer team recently took fi rst place at the Nike South County Clas-

sic Tournament. The team went a perfect 4-0 at the tourney, outscoring its opponents 12-0. With this championship win, the boys capped their non-league schedule with a new high school record of 18-1-0, winning two major tournaments including the Capo Valley Tournament as well as a third place fi nish in the Mayfair Soccer Tournament.

The only directory featuring San Clemente businesses exclusivelyBUSINESS DIRECTORY

Locals Only

San Clemente Auto Wrecking & Repair Shop 1520 Avenida de la Estrella, Ste. B, 949.492.6121www.sanclementeautowrecking.com

AUTO WRECKING

BLINDS

ASAP Appliance Service 949.361.7713 3200 Legendario, www.asapapplianceservice.com

APPLIANCES SERVICES & REPAIRS

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.com

APPLIANCES

All Season Air [email protected], www.allseasonair.netOasis Heating & Air 949.420.132131648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

AIR CONDITIONING

Del Mar Beauty Supply 949.492.8180150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste D, www.delmarbeauty.com

BEAUTY SUPPLY

OC Tykes 949.429.1714201 N. El Camino Real, www.octykes.com

BABY & CHILDREN’S GEAR

San Clemente Window Fashions 949.498.9515www.sc-wf.com

Village Book Exchange 949.492.1114 99 Avenida Serra

BOOKS

San Clemente Art Association 949.492.7175100 N. Calle Seville, www.scartgallery.com

ART GALLERIES

Curbside Pet & House Sitting 949.369.5074San Clemente, [email protected]

HOUSE SITTING

Designer’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 638 Camino de los Mares, Ste. G-105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.comShaw’s Carpets 949.492.8070135 Avenida Victoria

CARPET

INTERIOR DECORATING & REDESIGNThe Home & Garden Stylist/ 949.218.8022Vignettes of Refinement San Clemente, www.vignettesofrefinement.com

OC - IT 949.488.0029970 Calle Negocio, www.oc-it.com


HOME DÉCOR

Lange & Minnott 949.492.34591201 Puerta Del Sol, Ste. 203

ESTATE PLANNING, PROBATE, TRUST

Dr. R. Tyler Johnson DC, Chiropractic Center1502 N. El Camino Real, 949.498.6440www.chiropracticcenteronline.comChristiansen Chiropractic 949.276.2956 903 Calle Amancer, Ste. 230, www.christiansenchiro.com

CHIROPRACTIC CARE

San Clemente Computer & Network [email protected] 949.276.1581

COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICES

Eric Johnson, D.D.S. 949.493.9311647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 209, www.drericjohnson.com

DENTISTS

B Construction 949.481.84441046 Calle Recodo, Ste. I, www.bconstruction.netThe Cooper Company General Contractor License #B 638754, 949.361.2538www.biffcooperconstruction.com Dunham Construction, Inc. 949.492.7100License #450880, www.dunhamconstruction.netHutton Construction 949.492.2808www.brucehuttonconstruction.com

CONTRACTORS - GENERAL

Costa Verde Landscape 949.361.9656License#: 744797 (C-8 & C-27)www.costaverdelandscaping.com

CONCRETE

Anaheim Carpet & Flooring 949.366.65641046 Calle Recodo, Ste. I, www.anaheimcarpet.net

CARPET & FLOORING

The Cellar 949.492.3663156 Ave. Del Mar, www.thecellarsite.com

CHEESE SHOP

AVON 949.370.0433Annie Kyle, www.youravon.com/anniekyleMary Kay Cosmetics 949.248.2868www.marykay.com/madams2

COSMETICS

Arcadia Electric 949.361.1045www.arcadiaelectric.comGallagher Electric 949.412.6602 P.O. Box 986, www.gallagher-electric.com

ELECTRICAL

Coldwell Banker Home Loans - 949.307.7982nmls#261832. Tom Fashing, Mortgage Advisor, [email protected]

HOME LOANS

Paradise Jewelers 949.361.4367808 N. El Camino Real, www.paradisejewelers.com

JEWELERS


MATTRESSES

LANDSCAPE & DESIGNCosta Verde Landscape 949.361.9656License#: 744797 (C-8 & C-27)www.costaverdelandscaping.com Greenscapes Landscape & Design 949.366.65641046 Calle Recodo, Ste. I, www.greenscapesoc.comLiving Gardens Landscape Design 949.218.7459www.livinggardenslandscapedesign.com


LANDSCAPE LIGHTING

Curbside Pet & House Sitting 949.369.5074San Clemente, [email protected]

PET SITTING

Images/Creative Solutions 949.366.24882927 Via San Gorgoinio, Ste. 100, www.imgs.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Kreative Hair Design 949.498.6245173 Avenida Serra

HAIR SALONS


FURNITURE

All Season Air [email protected], www.allseasonair.netOasis Heating & Air 949.420.132131648 Rancho Viejo Rd. Ste. A, www.oasisair.com

HEATING

Designer’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 638 Camino de los Mares, Ste. G -105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com

FLOORING

Timothy C. Metcalf, Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC www.wfadvisors.com/tim.metcalf 949.862.1250

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Call Jeff [email protected]

DRYWALL/DRYWALL REPAIR

Carbonara Trattoria 949.366.1040111 Avenida Del Mar, #B, www.carbonara.com

CATERING

Craig Workinger CPA’s Inc 949.218.3224629 Camino de Los Mares #307

ACCOUNTANTS

Jarvis Restoration -24/7 949.362.53881393 Calle Avanzado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

MOLD REMOVAL

SC Rider Supply 949.388.0521520 S. El Camino Real, www.scridersupply.com

MOTORCYLE PARTS & SERVICE

San Clemente Optometry, David J. Nota, OD224 Avenida Del Mar, 949.492.2029www.sanclementeoptometry.comSeaside Eyecare 949.493.2269638 Camino De Los Mares, #A120, www.seasideeyecare.com

OPTOMETRY


OFFICE FURNITURE

Danman’s Music School 949.496.6556www.danmans.comLeslie Lowe - Ukulele, Guitar 949.292.5019& Bass [email protected] Poth - Violin & Viola 949.922.6388413 Calle Pueblo, [email protected]

MUSIC LESSONS

KC Painting & Decorating 949.388.6829

PAINTING

Colony Termite Control 949.361.25001402 Calle Alcazar, www.colonytermite.com

PEST CONTROL

Dr. Alice P. Moran, DMD 949.361.4867 (GUMS)1001 Avenida Pico, Ste. K, www.moranperio.com

PERIODONTICS & DENTAL IMPLANTS

Frank J. Mogavero, DDS MS 949.493.73001031 Avenida Pico # 101, www.syncyoursmile.com

ORTHODONTIST

MARRIAGE & FAMILY THERAPYJanet M. Seymour, PsyD 949.633.08131443 N. El Camino Real, Ste. B

Izza Neapolitan Pizzeria 949.248.4925376 Camino de Estrella, www.izzapizzeria.com

PIZZA

Sea View Pharmacy 949.496.0123665 Camino De Los Mares #101, www.seaviewpharmacy.com

PHARMACIES

Memories Of Me Photos 949.361.0680www.memoriesofmephotos.com

PHOTOGRAPHY

GraCorp Coins & Collectibles 949.350.4692www.gracorpcoins.com Kevin

COINS

A to Z Leak Detection 949.499.44641218 Puerta del Sol, www.atozleakdetection.comBill Metzger Plumbing 949.492.35581218 Puerta del Sol, www.billmetzgerplumbing.comChick’s Plumbing 949.496.9731www.chicks-plumbing.comSan Clemente Plumbing 949.366.2691647 Camino de los Mares, Ste. 108, www.sanclementeplumbing.com

PLUMBING

Radiant Pool & Spa Service 949.290.5616www.radiantpoolservice.com

POOL/SPA SERVICE & REPAIR

San Clemente Preschool 949.498.1025163 Avenida Victoria

PRESCHOOLS

BUSINESS COMPUTER SERVICE, REPAIR

Printing OC 949.388.488827134 Paseo Espada #B 203, www.printingoc.com

PRINTING

Barbara M. Thomas, PsyD 949.547.0833655 Camino de Los Mares, Ste. 117Janet M. Seymour, PsyD 949.633.08131443 N. El Camino Real, Ste. BManny Tau, Psy.D., PSY14892 888.949.5150300 S. El Camino Real, Ste. 218, www.drtau.com

PSYCHOLOGISTS

REAL ESTATEAntonio Fiorello, Forté Realty Group 949.842.3631San Clemente, www.forterealtygroup.comCasa Verde Homes - Simon Wilson 949.212.5800www.casaverdehomes.com Century 21 OMA - Eric Benson 949.584.3751www.sanclementecoastalhomes.com Marcie George - Star Real Estate South County [email protected] 949.690.5410McDaniel Gilmore Group - Surterre Propertieswww.livetalega.com 949.464.3226Prue Putnins- Regency Real Estate 949.366.1984 www.TheTalegaTeam.com, www.HomesByPrue.com“Sandy & Rich” - ReMaxwww.sandyandrich.com 949.293.3236

Best Blinds & Vacuums 949.492.871973 Via Pico Plaza

VACUUMS, SERVICE & REPAIR

San Clemente Website Design 949.246.8345www.sanclementewebsitedesign.com

WEBSITE DESIGN

Bayside Window Cleaning 949.290.8230www.baysidewindowcleaning.com

WINDOW CLEANING

Best Blinds & Vacuums 949.492.871973 Via Pico PlazaDesigner’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 638 Camino de los Mare, Ste. G-105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.comSan Clemente Window Fashions 949.498.9515www.sc-wf.com

WINDOW COVERINGS

San Clemente Wine Company 949.429.7076212 ½ Avenida Del Mar, www.scwinecompany.com

WINE SHOP & WINE TASTING

The Cellar 949.492.3663156 Ave. Del Mar, www.thecellarsite.com

WINE BAR

Study with Stacy 949.632.1176www.studywithstacy.comTutor Toes 949.429.6222111 W. Avenida Palizada, Ste. 11, www.tutortoes.com

TUTORING

Sure-Fit Screens 949.498.9412www.surefitscreens.com

SCREENS

South Coast Furniture & Mattress 949.492.5589109 Calle de los Molinos, www.southcoastfurniture.comThe Bargain Box 949.492.2800526 N. El Camino Real, www.capistranovalley.assistanceleague.org

SECOND HAND/THRIFT SHOP

TERMITESColony Termite Control 949.361.25001402 Calle Alcazar, www.colonytermite.comThe Termite Guy 949.940.1010106 W. Canada Ave., www.877termite.com

San Clemente Surf School 949.334.7649www.sanclementesurflessons.com

SURF SCHOOLS

Run More 949.940.0408303 N. El Camino Real, www.runmore-ca.com

RUNNING STORE

Salon Bamboo 949.361.3348150 Avenida Del Mar, Ste. A, www.salonbamboo.comSalon Bleu 949.366.2060207 S. El Camino Real, www.scsalonbleu.comSanctuary Salon & Spa 949.429.58021041 Avenida Pico, Ste. B, www.sanctuarytalega.com

SALONS

Café Calypso 949.366.9386114 Avenida Del Mar #4Carbonara Trattoria 949.366.1040111 Avenida Del Mar, #B, www.carbonara.comThe Cellar 949.492.3663156 Ave. Del Mar, www.thecellarsite.com

RESTAURANTS

Casa Verde Homes 949.212.5800License #B 906391, www.casaverderenovation.comDesigner’s Magic Flooring 949.496.1926 638 Camino de los Mare, Ste. G-105, www.designersmagiccarpetandflooring.com

REMODEL

Jarvis Restoration -24/7 949.362.53881393 Calle Avanzado, www.jarvisrestoration.com

WATER DAMAGE

Pacific Coast Veterinary Hospital 949.429.15551242 Puerta Del Sol, www.pacificcoastveterinary.com

VETERINARIANS


WATER WISE IRRIGATION

Yorba Linda Tile & Marble, Inc. 949.276.5752www.yorbalindatilemarble.com 714.757.3490

The only directory featuring San Clemente businesses exclusivelyBUSINESS DIRECTORY

Locals Only

A Beautiful You Skin Care 949.370.18521502 N. El Camino Real, www.abeautifulyouoc.com

SKINCARE

Jim Thomas Roofing 949.498.6204162 Calle de Industrias

ROOFING CONTRACTORS

TILE & STONE INSTALLATION/RESTORATION

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Call Angela Edwards at 949.682.1667 or e-mail [email protected].

TATTOO STUDIO & PERMANENT MAKEUP

Highland Ink 949.481.44341006 S. El Camino Real, www.highlandink.us


BUSINESS DIRECTORYSCSan Clemente

Submit your classified ad online at www.sanclementetimes.com

CLASSIFIEDS

GARAGE SALE LISTINGS ARE FREE!E-mail your listing: [email protected].

DEADLINE 5PM MONDAY NO PHONE CALLS.

On January 21, 2012 the lights in San Clemente seemed to shine less brightly in response to the passing of Juan Barrie; a man who cherished life and loved his family and friends with abundance. He’ll forever be remembered for his compassion and inspiration. There was a tone in his voice and a look in his eyes that somehow made us all feel like we were being hugged and all would be well

even in the worst of circumstances. When he wasn’t inspiring and lifting us up, he was busy making us laugh and filling us with joy. Juan walked in a room and it suddenly became brighter. It’s no wonder that he had many friends and was loved by them. To watch him with his children was beautiful and inspiring. He loved his daughter Anneke and his son Juan Jr. with his whole heart and it was a lovely sight. The lights might have dimmed when Juan left this world, but his memory and loving kindness will burn bright through eternity. Memorial service on January 28, 2012, 1 pm at St. Monica’s Church in Santa Monica, CA.

Juan B. Barrie (April 27, 1960 - January 21, 2012)OBITUARY

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GARAGE SALESSATURDAY JANUARY 28TH 8:00 AM-12:OO PM2385 S. Ola Vista San Clemente. Bike, bike racks, cameras, other electronics, home decor, nice womens, teen designer clothes and shoes . Mens clothing, surf gear, workout clothes.

GENERAL OFFICE ASSISTANCE (CLERICAL WORK) Part-time 9am-12pm (Jan-April during tax season) Mature person, computer literate. Call: 949-481-4751

HELP WANTED

Age: 13, Shorecliffs Middle School

Kailey Biggs of Capistrano Beach has been surfing for seven years and is in her second year as a member of the Shorecliffs Middle School surf team. Kailey’s sportsmanship, versatility and ability to be competitive on both shortboards and longboards make her a valued member of the team. Her performances this season in Scholastic Surf Series con-tests have earned her a place on the podium in all of the events so far. Kailey also enjoys competing as a member of the Doheny Longboard Surfing Association team and has en-tered some specialty contests as well. She took fourth place at the DLSA Gathering of the Tribes contest at Church Beach earlier this month and won one of her favorite trophies a few seasons ago, taking second at a Roxy event. Kailey is an A and B student whose fa-vorite subject is math. Her hobbies include learning to play the ukulele and cooking. She also likes to play soccer and volleyball but prefers to do these sports only recreationally—

to keep her competitive focus on surfing. Kailey says she would like to someday compete as a professional shortboarder, although she enjoys both longboarding and shortboarding equally. “When I’m surfing I feel amazing. Going down the line on a longboard and walking to the nose feels like walking on water. And, I like shortboard power moves like hitting the lip,” Kailey said. “For sure, surfing is one of the best things about growing up by the beach.” —Andrea Swayne

GROM OF THE WEEK Kailey Biggs

SCOOP ON THE LOCAL SURF COMMUNITYSC SURF

5SCSan Clemente

SHF Hires New Executive DirectorBy Andrea SwayneSan Clemente Times

he San Clemente-based Surfing Heri-tage Foundation on Wednesday an-nounced the hiring of Bolton Colburn

as its new executive director.The announcement put to rest months

of rumors within the surf industry that the former Laguna Art Museum director and US amateur surfing champion (late 1970s) was being courted for the position.

“I am very excited to have Bolton on board. I have been a fan of his work with the Laguna Art Museum for some time and I think he is a great fit for us,” said SHF Creative Director and Curator Barry Haun. “He brings an expertise with him that was previously a missing component.”

SHF founder and board member Dick Metz agrees, calling Colburn, “the ideal per-son to lead the foundation in the next phase of its development” and crediting his mu-seum experience and surfing background as reasons for choosing him.

The Foundation announcement laid out Colburn’s extensive list of relevant experi-ence as follows: “In his tenure at Laguna Art Museum, Colburn championed scholarly exhibitions of historical and contemporary

T

UPCOMING EVENTS

January 28-29: Nike 6.0 Surfing America Prime Event No. 3, Santa Cruz, Steamer LaneFebruary 11: NSSA Southwest Conference Explorer Event No. 6, Oceanside, South JettyFebruary 11-12: O’Neill Surfing America Prime Event No. 4, San Onofre, Upper TrestlesFebruary 18-19: WSA Gatorade Champion-ship Tour Event No. 7, Huntington Beach, PierFebruary 18-19: NSSA Southwest Conference Open Event No. 9, Ventura, C StreetFebruary 25: SSS Orange County Middle School Event No. 3, Oceanside, Pier

Bolton Colburn chosen to lead the nonprofit Surfing Heritage Foundation

art that often looked at the crossover between popular culture and high art, such as the seminal Surf Culture: The Art History of Surfing (2002), which traveled to venues in Honolulu, Hawaii, New York and Melboune, Australia. Colburn was the founding director of the newly reformed

Kailey Biggs. Photo by Andrea Swayne

Laguna Art Museum after its contentious merger with Newport Harbor Art Museum to become Orange County Museum of Art in 1996. When Mr. Colburn left Laguna Art Museum after fourteen years at the helm, the museum had a full-time staff of eleven employees, a budget of $1.3 million,

Bolton Colburn, former director of the Laguna Art Museum, is the new Executive Director of the Surfing Heritage Foundation. Photo by Tom Servais

a collection of over 3,000 works of art and an exemplary exhibition program that regularly produced scholarly publications. Prior to that, he was senior curator at the Orange County Museum of Art (1995-1996), curator at La-guna Art Museum (1987-1995), and registrar at La Jolla Museum of Contemporary Art (1981-1987).”

Colburn, who left the Laguna museum in May 2011, referred to his new position as his dream job. “In the last 10 years Surfing Heritage Foundation has done extraordinary things. I’m thrilled to be in a position to help the organization go the next thousand yards. Surfing Heritage Foundation clearly has the collection, support, board of trustees, and staff to become a major player, regionally, nationally, and internationally in the museum field,” Colburn said. SC

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