On Thursday, October 10, OC Guide Dogs Alumni members and visually impaired friends went to the Outlets at San Clemente for a tour and shopping excursion. Our tour was led by Susan Jennrich and Jason Chase. Volunteers Joyce Alderson, Brenda Hayler (photographer) and Jen Puls were incredibly helpful. Upon arriving at the Outlets at San Clemente, we were escorted through the California visitor center and up to the second floor VIP lounge. This private lounge, reserved just for us, was complete with comfortable seating arrangements and plenty of beverages and snacks. Even the restrooms were high-end and an experience in themselves. Our host Susan gave us an introduction to the Outlets at San Clemente as a company and some general information about its history. Each member was provided with a VIP pass to use at another visit and some shopping coupons.
We were in good hands as Jason led us out of the visitor center and then to the giant Jack-O-Lantern for a group photo. After the group photo, Jason and Susan took turns describing the layout of the Outlets at San Clemente. They gave us a descriptive tour of the architecture, landscape and walkways, and talked about the stores and movie theater under construction. Another photo opportunity presented itself at the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Awareness display where members took photos and selfies in front of the huge pink decorated background. Jason described the setting of the Outlets San Clemente and the future restaurants to be located above the parking structure with a spectacular view of the ocean. As we faced west, Jason described the proximity of the outlets of San Clemente .
We thanked Susan and Jason for their hospitality and tour, and then we ate lunch at Rockwell’s restaurant.
