Who Are the San Clemente Dons?
Jan 03, 2024 03:54PM ● By Don Kindred
In the Sun Post, 1968
A Quick History
by Don Kindred
Back in the late 1960s, when Richard Nixon moved to town, the Chamber and the City put together a group of active (male) community volunteers; local businessmen, former service club presidents and city officials who were chosen to interact with the President on the community's behalf. They were like official city hosts/greeters, meeting the Presidential helicopter as he touched down near Cotton’s Point and attending the Western White House or organizing official functions.
After Nixon left, the group carried on as city boosters. As a sub-group of the Chamber, members were approved only by a unanimous vote of the others.
Still active, the collective experience and local knowledge of the group (which now includes women) serves as a sounding board for the community. New ideas and projects are presented to them at their monthly meetings, held at the Municipal Golf Course where they offer their opinion. They are also known for High School Scholarships and having their Annual Christmas Party in April.