Coronado Magazine

CORONADO AUGUST 2021

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table of contents Family Reunions: A Building Block to Family Legacy

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this issue

21 | Home Grown Coronado Michael Napolitano

32 | Meet Glenn Hammond Curtiss 40 | Grand Caribe Shoreline

Park Turns 25

your favorites

15 | Summer Activities for All 27 | A Walk in the Park 44 | Colors of a Summer Sunset 52 | Financial Future For Women Post Pandemic

56 | Island Icon: Julia Viera 66 | The Final Word

Cover photo of Dietz Family by Hattie Foote P6 | Coronado Magazine

The Official Magazine of Coronado, California

August 2021

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The First Word With this edition of the Coronado Magazine we celebrate summer and all the fun it brings. We enjoy a Concert in the Park and step back to a time when man was just starting to “slip the surly bonds of Earth.” Grand Caribe Shoreline Park turns 25, and Michael Napolitano reminds us that, with purpose, age becomes meaningless.

Amidst all this, there is something we should all take a moment to reflect upon …

Family Family is the single most important relationship we share as humans and it is at once the simplest, and most complex one we will ever have. At its genesis, family is its easiest - just a child and a parent. Almost immediately though, that family starts to grow in size and complexity. Siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents - spouses and children of our own all expand our family.

And, family is also much more than just the bond of name and genetics, family is also the relationships we collect as we travel throughout this world. The friends we make, the co-workers we meet, the neighbors we have, they also become our family.

But, as we all know, family doesn’t just happen, it requires work. For family to grow strong it needs nurturing, it needs love, and it needs understanding.

Coronado is our family.

We should all take a moment to get out and be a positive part of our family.

Photo by Hattie Foote

Dean K. Eckenroth, Jr. Editor and Associate Publisher

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Issue 249

The Official Magazine of Coronado, California

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Created by Coronadans

Publisher Dean Eckenroth publisher@eaglenewsca.com

Associate Publisher Dean K. Eckenroth Jr. editor@eaglenewsca.com Business Development Advertising Director Patricia Ross patricia@eaglenewsca.com Amanda Ramirez amanda@eaglenewsca.com Renee Schoen renee@eaglenewsca.com Editorial Alessandra Selgi-Harrigan alessandra@eaglenewsca.com Susie Clifford copyeditor@eaglenewsca.com Kel Casey kel@eaglenewsca.com Maria Simon maria@eaglenewsca.com Christine Johnson christine@eaglenewsca.com Brooke Clifford brooke@eaglenewsca.com Director of Operations Daniel Toennies daniel@eaglenewsca.com Production Andrew Koorey Printing Advanced Web Offset Distribution Roberto Gamez

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Family Reunions: A Building Block to Family Legacy

by Linda L. Austin

Family reunions can be small with only the immediate family, or large to include great uncles, aunts, and second cousins. Regardless of the relationships, a group meeting of relatives gathers a hodgepodge of varying personalities, temperaments, backgrounds, and political beliefs, but they can be fun if relationships are more important than being right; if family ties and personal connections are significant.

Having extended family you choose to see at least enough to know what’s happening in their lives builds a solid base for any family unit. Young children quickly recognize that their family is more than parents, grandparents, and siblings. Research says that children who are close to extended family are more secure; they have aunts, uncles, great aunts and uncles, and cousins who care about them.

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Being the oldest in our family on both maternal and paternal

the 10-bedroom house has two tables that seat 12, plus counter

sides causes sober reflection. As we age and are not consumed

chairs, porch rockers, and a round glass table usually covered

with immediate family demands, we often yearn to reconnect

with a work-in-progress puzzle. With COVID postponing our

with relatives and add to our knowledge of family history. My

2020 extended reunion, 2021 was the year to start up again.

maternal relatives have remained fairly close; at least most of us

Our July 4th Topping reunion attracted 52 of us, with eight

know each other on varying scales of familiarity. Since Mother

first cousins, plus some of their family members, aged 9 months

had seven siblings, of which she was the oldest, some of my first

to 80 years old, four generations. They came from California,

cousins are the age of my children and younger. They are scattered

Colorado, Texas, Florida, and North Carolina.

from Ohio to Florida and California to North

The invitation said “Arrive by 2 p.m.

Carolina. As the matriarch, I feel somewhat

and eat at 3 p.m. If you want to arrive

responsible for keeping that contact, which

earlier and enjoy the beach, you’re

was forged in childhood, active. Fortunately,

welcome.” We requested that attendees

my sister Jean as well as several first cousins

dress in patriotic colors for the group

feel the same.

picture since it was Independence Day.

Several years ago, we decided to try for

Having 50 in a picture never produces

a Topping reunion every two years. My

more than a keepsake of the day, and

immediate family’s annual reunion at

too often someone’s eyes are closed, or

Holden Beach, North Carolina, occupies the

someone makes a funny face, but each

ideal spot for larger gatherings. In inclement

family will receive a copy of the best one

weather, which has not happened yet, we

to document the event.

can congregate beneath the house which

It was an easy reunion for the planners

is equipped with picnic tables. Upstairs,

because we chose to pick up North

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Carolina barbecue with all the trimmings.

which allowed for additional talking.

No one had to bring anything, but one cousin

As I roamed around the groups taking

brought sodas, one brought pasta salad and

pictures, I enjoyed seeing siblings, who

watermelon, and several insisted on donating

live many states apart or at opposite ends

to the expense. They were happy to spend

of a state, congregate with smiles and

the enjoyable Sunday that was planned by

animated conversations. The cousins and

others. Noisy chatter dominated the meal

their children enjoyed filling in the blanks

with lots of accompanying laughter.

of current updates while planning future

During the visiting time, a few of us

visits. Several of the in-laws commented

reminisced about funny stories of our

on what a compatible group it was. One

parents, and I heard a new one about my

grandson described it as a “solid” reunion.

mother. When Mother went to buy her

Those who have been in the family several

first cell phone, a “bag phone,” one of

years knew most of the group, and recent

her nephews accompanied her. While the

additions hopefully created one layer

advertisement said it was free, the salesman said she would

of familiarity. Acquainting teenage second cousins, who have

have to put down a $300 deposit because she had no credit. She

similar interests, places them into the mixture for future reunions.

reminded them that the ad said it was free, causing their response,

Those returning home the same day stayed until sunset

“We’ll give you 7% on your $300.” Since her investments were

approached. The Colorado cousin had decided to spend the

making only 4% at that time, she quickly asked if she could put

week here with her two children and four grandchildren, which

down a $10,000 deposit at 7%. Her remark was in character and

means we have more time to mingle. The Texas cousin stayed

gave us a comforting laugh to remember her.

an additional night before heading out to visit other East Coast

Everyone ate too much to enjoy it, so dessert was delayed,

relatives.

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What Makes a Multigenerational Family Reunion Succeed?

Plans are starting for the 2023 reunion with attempts to encourage other family pods to join us. Reminiscing and learning fun family facts, laughing at the various antics and interesting stories, catching glimpses of family traits and facial features of deceased relatives, and sharing common interests are ample reasons to make the effort to know your extended family better. Realizing our genealogy binds us together is significant; however, connecting with the personal family stories of older members as well as with the current crop just starting their families, keeps the unit bonded by continuing to add to the family’s historical legacy. Extended family members are unique treasures to be valued and cherished. They add to our quality of life, and family reunions are a solidifying building block to a remarkable family.

Austin family with colors indicating generation: yellow for great grandchildren, red for grandchildren, white for children, blue for first generation.

When asked what makes our family reunions work, my 15-year-old granddaughter said, “Tradition makes it work. You have to start early, so everyone knows a lot of the people.” My great grandchildren attended this year; Libby is only 9 months old. If you missed that boat, start now, and expect it to grow slowly.

• Have two organizers who work well together. Notify everyone as early as possible. Since we try for every two years, we know the date well in advance and send an email right after the last reunion. Choose either the “old home place” or an interesting place near some of the family.

• Have a meal, either potluck or catered, with contributions toward cost. Keep the menu simple with disposable plates, etcetera, so even the organizers can enjoy the day. Have plenty of beverages and ice for the whole day.

• Groups who are familiar with most of those attending want to visit, but new gatherings might need an ice breaker game, like everyone interviewing 2 or 3 people they do not know well for only five minutes each. Suggested questions might be helpful. Read your group and be flexible. Have something ready if needed to get the group engaged. The size of the reunion dictates possibilities.

• If only a few are newcomers, the organizer should be sure they are introduced to others or included in a group discussion, checking periodically to see that they are mingling.

• Have a designated photographer who makes the pictures available to the group. Offer to take individual family pictures. Have a poster with special picture requests: oldest and youngest, each generation, adult siblings, adult first cousins, the entire group.

• Each year I ask what we should do differently next year, and each year the consensus is “nothing new.” After many reunions, we are on auto pilot. We have our simple format which seems to work for us, but families need to individualize for their group. Some order t-shirts for the group or ask families to bring old pictures or recipes to share.

Our reunions got a jump start when my mother’s siblings had dwindled from seven to two. We started the day for her, but we have continued it for us. Family reunions need to be fun, or no one will want to repeat the event. Our reunions succeed because we keep in touch during the year with social media as well as phone calls and birthday cards. When someone has a milestone birthday or a wedding, at least some of the relatives try to attend. Contact, no matter how small, is a building block, but someone must start the ball rolling and be patiently persistent.

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900 Orange Avenue

619-435-0076

Coronado Island Shell

We fill propane cylinders, motorhomes and vehicles

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Operation Homelife: Summer Activities for All! Article and photos by Krysta Murray

Summer is almost over already and I don’t know about you, but it is going by way too fast. For those of us new to the area or those that have been here a while but have been limited with outings due to COVID, I thought it’d be a great time to put together a list of things to do in the area. This applies for families with and without children, because if you’re like me, I enjoy these kinds of things as much as my kid (if not more so sometimes).

So many places are open again and there is so much to see and do in our sunny corner of the world.

There are more activities than I can include in this article but I narrowed it down to affordable options, one day events close by, bonus if they have outdoor spaces to enjoy the warm weather. But also included are some cool and shady spots to beat the heat on hotter days. For those of you unaware, summer weather here lasts until October so even though many children head back to school soon, these could be great weekend activities, too.

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Coronado I have to start with our very own Coronado, because really there are some days you don’t even need to leave. Coronado Beach made the 2021 top 10 beaches in America list placing at No. 8 on this year’s list! Backdropped by the iconic Hotel del Coronado, the sand literally sparkles, thanks to the mineral mica present along the shoreline. It glitters as it washes ashore! You can surf the waves, explore the tide pools at low tide, or rent kayaks and stand-up paddle boards and see the sights from the water.

Have a picnic at one of the many beautiful parks throughout the city and then take a bike ride along the Bayshore Bikeway. The Silver Strand Bikeway is an out and back (unless you just want to head into Imperial Beach) with the Pacific Ocean on one side

and the San Diego Bay on the other and offers excellent view points, especially looking north at Coronado, downtown San Diego, and the Coronado Bridge. If you go far enough you’ll reach the National Wildlife Refuge, great for spotting egrets, blue herons, and a myriad of shore birds. You may also spot the jackrabbits at the Silver Strand State Park. A 6-mile bike path that takes you all around the island will offer up-close views of and under the Coronado Bridge, picturesque views across the bay and around the scenic, tree-lined Coronado Golf Course.

Many maps are available to plan your route and soak in this beautiful city.

Birch Aquarium Birch Aquarium at Scripps is the public exploration center for the world-renowned Scripps Institution of Oceanography at University of California San Diego. It features more than 60 habitats of fishes and invertebrates from the cold waters of the Pacific Northwest to the tropical waters of Mexico and beyond. There are two main sides of the indoor portion as well as outdoor exhibits.

Perched high on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, these outdoor exhibits offer stunning views of the

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La Jolla Cove. The waters surrounding this inlet are part of the La Jolla Underwater Park, which includes the Ecological Reserve with ample wildlife, many of which you’ll learn about at the aquarium. Afterwards, you can head down to the cove and see the sea lions sunning on the rocky shores or catch a breathtaking sunset.

Military deal: Birch Aquarium offers a $2 ticket discount off admission to all active, reserve, retired service persons and veterans.

Cabrillo National Monument We have a national park nearby! This national park tells the story of 16th century exploration and preserves the Old Point Loma Lighthouse which was opened in 1855. The 49-foot lighthouse is done in a Cape-Cod style and welcomes visitors to climb to the top for stunning views and an up-close look at a lighthouse lamp. A former army building, a bunker really, set up just as it would have been in the first half of the 20th century, helps to tell the story of the coast artillery on Point Loma. On the west side of the park is a small but beautiful stretch of rocky-intertidal coastline and protected tide pools with peaceful hiking trails. Panoramic views of the city, harbor,

and ocean can be seen from almost every side at 422 ft above sea level. Summer extended hours have the park open until sunset on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 5. The tidepool area will be open until 30 minutes before sunset.

Military Deal: Free annual National Park pass available for current US military members and their dependents in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and Space Force, as well as Reserve and National Guard members, US military veterans, and Gold Star Family members.

Balboa Park I’ve been in the area for three years and have yet to see every museum or corner of this park but I hope to do so before I move. A one-stop shop for culture, art and nature, you can’t see it all in one day, but you’ll have a fun-filled day taking in as much as you can. There are gorgeous walking trails lined with all sorts of native plants, wildlife and flowers. The architecture is stunning and the world-renowned Japanese Friendship garden is like a secret oasis in a bustling city. There are museums and an array of attractions for everyone to enjoy as well as events Coronado Magazine | P17

year-round. In the heart of San Diego, atop of a hill this 1,200-acre historic urban cultural park is a must-see.

Military Deal: They generously offer military deals throughout the year, but for military families new to the area, you can apply for the Military Appreciation Pass (MAP) which provides family passes to active duty military families living in San Diego County. The 16 participating cultural institutions graciously provide free admission to pass recipients. The supply of passes is limited each year.

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© 2021 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties (BHHSCP) is a member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC. BHH Affiliates LLC and BHHSCP do not guarantee accuracy of all data including measurements, conditions, and features of property. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting this information. Based on information obtained from the MLS as of (include the date data was obtained). Display of MLS data is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed accurate by the MLS. Buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information.

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LET'S CELEBRATE CORONADO! T HE B ES T C IT Y IN T HE W O R L D ,

B Y PA R !

AWARDS | DINNER | DRINKS

SEPTEMBER 30 FEAST & FAREWAY 5:30 PM For ticket inquiries, call the Chamber at 619-435-9260 or visit www.CoronadoChamber.com

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Home Grown Coronado Michael Napolitano

The Napolitano name has been prominent in Coronado since the early 1900s, with four generations calling it home.

Mike Napolitano’s grandfather, Carmine, opened a grocery store, Day and Night Market in 1917 and that began the Napolitano legacy. The family mystery is what brought him to Coronado from Italy via New York. The market was later managed by his father, Michael A. Napolitano, then his uncle Joe Todaro.

Mike Napolitano, as well as his two sons Erich and Evan, graduated from Coronado High School (CHS). While he was not in high school sports, like other Coronado teenagers, he enjoyed the local surfing. His father attended CHS, but World War II prevented his graduation. He had enlisted when he was 16, requiring his parents’ signature and receiving his diploma when he returned.

After graduating from San Diego State

University (SDSU) with a major in zoology and minor in chemistry, Napolitano changed his direction from pre-med to education. “I went to graduate school, School of Education, to get my teacher’s degree. I really wanted to be a teacher.”

The Vietnam war altered his plans when President Nixon cancelled graduate deferments, and he was drafted. After deciding he wanted to fulfill his service as an officer, he took a circuitous route and ended up, with the advice of a neighbor who was an active duty Marine Corps major, joining the Marine Corps as a pilot. He took the oath in May 1971.

“I was engaged to Sue at the time when all this happened,” said Napolitano.

“Got married in August ‘71, off to OCS in January 1972.”

Napolitano became a Marine pilot, but his service was as an Air Support Control Officer. “I wasn’t flying planes, but I was

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still in the airwing, on the ground, stationed at Cherry Point, North Carolina” When his service ended, he returned to SDSU to complete his teaching credential. His first teaching job was in Escondido at Grant Middle School, teaching math and science for two years, then to Murrieta Middle School where he taught grades five through eight.

His varied career history took another turn when he left teaching to work with Service Master at Children’s Hospital in San Francisco for two years.

In 1981, he joined his dad to start their own real estate company, Mike Napolitano Realty. His dad had started working in the real estate business in 1965 in Coronado, and with his vast experience, he became a mentor to his son.

The real estate business has been a good fit for Napolitano, who is a people person. For him, the best thing about this job is working with people. “Every day is different, not boring or humdrum. Whether you’re dealing with buyers, or sellers, or tenants or property owners, every day is different,” he said. “This strong family legacy and an intimate knowledge of the local market evolution over the years are the key components of the company’s success.”

The numerous plaques for awards and recognition decorating

his office wall attest to Napolitano’s achievements in Coronado.

Choosing the most treasured ones took a few minutes of reflection, but he finally mentioned several: 1998 - Realtor of Year from Coronado Association of Realtors; 1986 - Duncan Turnipseed Memorial Award from what was then the Coronado 20/30 Club for Outstanding Membership; 1988 – 1992 - Coronado City Council member; 1997 – 1998 - Chair of Coronado Hospital Foundation.

Retirement is not on the immediate horizon. “People ask me when I will retire. I like what I’m doing. I’m healthy. What I do doesn’t require extreme physical work…So what would I do? So would I retire in two years? Probably not, maybe 80.”

However, COVID limited working hours for him. “Now I’ve been working less, and that started when we got shut down last year for COVID. I got used to it. Then we got to reopen because we were determined to be an essential service, but I would still come into the office every day for two hours. ‘Cause there’s still stuff to do. All the agents were working from home.”

While some employees still work from home, Napolitano recognizes the need for interaction to create the camaraderie and energy necessary for a cohesive team. “All working from home is not good.”

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His business recently became affiliated with Better Homes and Garden which “perfectly captures the signature lifestyle element of the brand.” Napolitano is “impressed with brand tools and programs designed to enhance marketing opportunities and build on customer relationships.” The new affiliation resulted in a name change to Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate (BHGRE) Napolitano & Associates, which makes it the 23rd BHGRE affiliate in California.

Neither son is in the real estate business. Like his wife, both sons are artistic. Erich is a muralist, currently working on an old VFW building which is being restored in Sandy, Oregon.

Evan works in San Diego in a restaurant. One granddaughter, Sienna, 8 years old, lives in Illinois with her mother.

While retirement is distant, working fewer hours has become a desirable habit. A runner in the Marine Corps, he now walks 1 to 3 miles a day.

Residents often see him walking in town completing errands or simply greeting people. Besides walking, Napolitano stimulates his brain with puzzles and crossword puzzles, a new past-time since the COVID shut down. He also plays the piano and enjoys a wide variety of music. Favorite pieces to play are John Lennon’s “Imagine” and Beethoven’s “Fur Elise.” Besides the personal entertainment activities, he is an active participant at Resurrection Lutheran Church, along with the Coronado Marine Corps League, and the Coronado Roundtable.

Napolitano may be approaching Story - Linda Austin retirement age, but with his successful business and the pleasure he derives Photos courtesy - Mike Napolitano from his daily routine plus his contributions to Coronado, age becomes meaningless.

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HOW TO...

Blend Nature and Art Use a thin marker and let the creativity flow on shells from the seashore. Perfect tabletop decor.

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August’s new birthstone is Spinel.

This one of a kind ring: 3.88ct Burmese spinel 1.03ctw diamonds All set in platinum 1130 ORANGE AVENUE

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A Walk in the Park

by Hattie Foote

I have a controversial confession

to make. I don’t love Concert in the Park. I know, I know, what kind of local am I? But the schlepping of supplies and not losing my little kids in the sea of people wasn’t my idea of a quiet Sunday night.

Sidenote: It makes me sweat saying “local.” I have seen many discussions on community social media forums over the years discussing what qualifies you to be considered a local.

Regardless, in my 12 years of living here Concert in the Park just hasn’t been one of my must do activities. But as the saying goes, you don’t know what you have till it’s gone, and boy was everything gone this past year and a half! So, I rallied our best friends, loaded our wagon, put my order in at High Tide, and we were off to rock out.

However, this time was different. I watched as our community laughed and danced and ate and drank. I can’t speak for everyone, but for me it was a newfound appreciation for the things I took for granted. Spreckels Park was shining.

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When I set out to first write this column, my main focus was going to be Concert in the Park.

The more I outlined though, the more I kept thinking about Spreckels. It is a constant in our family’s memories. It gave me somewhere to go when I was navigating baby blues and had to get out of the house. We held almost all of my daughter’s birthday parties and have attended so many wonderful celebrations there. We have watched trees fall and children grow. I have witnessed a devastating medical emergency and people getting married.

This spectacular park holds so many moments, for so many people.

Years ago, my husband Chris and I were at the movies and got a call that there was a “little” problem at his business, Coronado Fitness Club (CFC). We drove back to Coronado and saw that the “little problem” was actually a very, very big problem.

Chris had just put in a new floor, and the movers were putting the equipment back in place. The very last piece struck a fire sprinkler and flooded the entire gym. CFC was a fairly new business and we had put every penny we had into it. It was crushing and I panicked, but once we P28 | Coronado Magazine

took a breath, this amazing community worked together, and we got back on our feet. I bring this up, because we were able to use Spreckels for a short-term

Oh, and I am warming up to Concert in the Park. Chris bought me rocking outdoor chairs from Costco that are life changing. I’ll be jamming with my pizza and wine near the playground for the rest of the summer!

Rock n Roll!

solution for classes and training while we made a game plan. Fast forward to 2020 when the fitness community had massive restrictions, once again Spreckels was a saving grace for all studios and gyms on the island.

I actually brought my computer to the park today and wrote as my 4-year-old son Hunter played at the playground. I wanted to immerse myself in the location, become one with it.

Just kidding, I didn’t have a babysitter and needed to multitask. Hunter kept running up to me every 2 minutes, making it hard to write. I was starting to feel overwhelmed and guilty, when an angel fellow mom bent down and asked if he would like to play with her daughter. He eagerly accepted and she said, “It looked like you needed to get some work done.” It was just a kind simple gesture that meant the world to me.

I am so grateful for my mom friends I have made by the swings, in the sandbox.

I once heard a mom curse when her kid took off running and it made me smile.

We laughed and chatted and when it was time to go home, exchanged numbers. It’s truly the best way to feel people out and see if you make a connection. If things get awkward, I guess there is always Tidelands!

It’s apparent that Spreckels is a pretty special place, and we are pretty lucky to have her.

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Meet Glenn Hammond Curtiss Step back a century in time to learn more about the remarkable man who was the “Father of Naval Aviation,” “The Fastest Man on Earth” and so much more…

By Kris Grant Coronado might never have been the Birthplace of Naval Aviation if not for the wonderfully inventive mind of a rather introverted man from upstate New York – Glenn Hammond Curtiss.

As most Coronadans know, Glenn H. Curtiss was the guy who set up a school in Coronado in 1911 at what is now North Island Naval Air Station and trained the first naval aviators.

I learned so much about the prodigious career of this man by visiting his hometown of Hammondsport at the southernmost point of Lake Keuka, one of the 11 Finger Lakes.

In Hammondsport, this native son is a local hero, and I soon found photographs of his accomplishments adorning the walls of the Park Inn restaurant, and images of him on the interior walls of the local ice cream parlor and on murals outside the Hammondsport Grocery Store.

But the true gem of this town is the Curtiss Museum, where Richard

Glenn Curtiss’ first flying boat, 1912.

Leisenring, the curator for the past 18 years, took me through Curtiss’ life story.

The museum contains a priceless collection relating to early aviation and regional history, and traveling exhibits such as the current “Art at War,” showcasing the art of squadron insignias

painted on fuselages of early airplanes.

It has a 75-seat theater, large open area for special events and a museum store. Visitors are welcome to visit the Restoration Shop, talk with volunteer craftsman and watch them work on historic aircraft.

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The early years

Born in 1878, Glenn Curtiss was the

When Glenn was five, his father died

grandson of a Methodist minister and

and by age 10, Glenn was contributing

his wife who came to Hammondsport

mightily to the family’s income, deliver-

from Canada in 1876. Glenn’s father,

ing groceries, herding cows, raising and

Frank, went to work as a harness maker;

selling rabbits. Glenn’s younger sister

his mother, Lua, was an artist who loved

Rutha lost her hearing from a bout with

painting the “glen” outside the village

meningitis and her mother enrolled her in

that was largely owned by the Hammond

a school for the deaf in Rochester; Glenn

family. There are beautiful glens in the

divided his time between Rochester and

Hammondsport area, including those with

Hammondsport, where, after graduating

waterfalls at nearby Watkins State Park.

from eighth grade, he worked full time,

Lua named her baby boy after the Ham-

providing the majority of support to his

mond glen (she added an “n’).

sister, mother and grandmother.

His love of bicycles began in 1893 while living in Rochester. He first learned

Around age 16, Glenn began working at

to ride on a high-wheeled bicycle while

the local bike store on the village square

working at the Eastman Dry Plate and

in Hammondsport. He loved bikes, both

Film Company (later Eastman Kodak).

racing and repairing them.

He later bought a lower, safer bike and

Glenn Curtiss liked bicycling from an early age and by 19 owned his own bike shop in Hammondsport.

Curtiss posed for early ads promoting his bicycles.

By age 19 he needed to generate a larg-

worked as a Western Union Telegraph

er income, as he had fallen in love with

messenger, frequently racing with other

a local girl, Lena Nuff. They married in

messengers, making occasional 70-mile

1898, when Glenn turned 20. In 1899 he

weekend jaunts to Hammondsport. At the

opened his own bike shop. The Curtisses

Eastman plant, Curtiss’s mechanical abili-

had two children, but their first child died

ties became evident: he invented a stencil

in infancy and their second wasn’t born

machine and later a rudimentary camera.

until almost a decade later.

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Curtiss revs up with the 20th century

A Curtiss Motorcycle was powered by his self-designed engine.

As the 20th century roared into being, so did Curtiss! In 1900, he

Toledo and attempted to interest them in one of his engines, offering

began experimenting with motorcycles, building the fastest machines

it to them for free. But the fiercely independent Wrights declined his

available, using a lightweight combustion engine of his own design.

offer.

In 1902 he founded the Curtiss Manufacturing Company and began

Later, the Wrights, who filed a broad patent on all types of air flight

to market his motorbikes commercially. By 1903, he was crushing the

following their Kitty Hawk flight, took on all competitors (chief among

famous Indian motorbikes and Harley Davidsons in competitions.

them Curtiss), in court with costly and time-consuming litigation.

At the same time, he was headed up in the air. In 1904, balloonist Tom

On Jan. 7, 1907, Curtiss set an all-time high-speed record of 136.36

Baldwin created a small motorized pedal-powered airship, known

miles per hour on a 40-horsepower, V-8 powered motorcycle in Or-

today as a dirigible. Then he made a larger one for other companies and

mond Beach, Florida. That’s when newspapers dubbed him “the fastest

decided he would build his own airship. He turned to Curtiss to help

man on Earth.”

him power it. The “California Arrow” used a Curtiss seven-horsepower

Alexander Graham Bell, who patented the first telephone in 1876 and

Hercules motorcycle engine to propel it. When it made a controlled

founded AT&T in 1885, had a wide range of scientific interests. When

circular-flight in Oakland, California, the Army became interested, and

he became interested in “heavier than air” craft, he was 60 years old

purchased the airship for $10,000.

and his wife, Mabel, urged him to recruit younger men to join him in

Curtiss, by nature, was a collaborator, who was interested in the

his work. Thus, Bell came calling on Curtiss in 1907, inviting him to

advancement of technology first; financial gain was secondary. In May

join his newly formed Aerial Experiment Association (AEA). The AEA

1906, Curtiss, with Baldwin, met the Wright Brothers at an air show in

also included Army Lieutenant Thomas Selfridge, who recognized that

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The Curtiss Museum displays a series of Glenn Curtiss’ aircraft, including actual models and replicas. air flight would have a profound effect on the army’s future, and Frederick Walker Baldwin, a hydrofoil and aviation pioneer. The group set up shop in Hammondsport and over the next two years produced four aircrafts, each improving on the design of the previous one.

The third design was the June Bug and on July 4, 1908, Curtiss flew the plane 5,080 feet to capture the Scientific American Trophy and its cash award. This was considered the first publicly announced, officially witnessed “heavier-than-air” flight in America and shot Curtiss into further fame.

“Glenn Curtiss did more to advance aviation than anyone in history,” Leisenring said.

The Wright Brothers were far more secretive about their flights, attempting to patent every design. The brothers would allow other pilots to proceed with their designs if they paid them licensing fees of an initial $1,000 and $500 for each flight thereafter. Court cases between the Wrights and Curtiss dragged on and on.

“The Albany Flyer” by John Gould commemorates Glenn Curtiss’ 150-mile public flight along the Hudson from Albany, NY, to Manhattan.

Curtiss’ feat was the first true cross-country flight in the United States.

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Curtiss begins selling to the Navy

Glenn Curtiss (with hat) and his first class of military pilots, from left Lt. J.C. Walker, U.S. Army; Lt. P.W.Beck, U.S. Army, Lt.Theodore G “Spuds” Ellyson, U.S. Navy and Lt. G.E. Kelly, U.S. Army.

Curtiss recognized that the Navy would be style home for $7,000 for his family and his a good candidate to purchase his planes. On home office in 1910.

Nov. 14, 1910, Curtiss’ demonstration pilot, Jami and Chander Burgos, owners of Glenn Eugene Ely, flew off a makeshift platform set Curtiss’ former home at 301 Alameda Bouleup on the deck of a Navy cruiser, the USS vard, received the GEM Award (Going-theBirmingham.

Extra-Mile) for historic preservation of the The Navy then expressed an interest in “airplane house” in 2014 from the Coronado purchasing planes from Curtiss but part of the Historical Association. They had answered deal was for him to teach Navy officers to fly. an ad for a bungalow home that was priced as So at the end of 1910, Curtiss set up a “winter a “tear down” and only through research did encampment” in Coronado to teach Army and they discover that the home was the former Navy officers to fly. Here he trained Lt. Theoresidence of “The Father of Naval Aviation.” dore “Spuds” Ellyson, who became U.S. Naval I wonder if they know that Curtiss had his Aviator No. 1, and three Army officers. home in Hammondsport remodeled at the Curtiss arranged a three-year lease at $1 a same time he built his home in Coronado, year from John Spreckels for barren property, adding to his Hammondsport home a similar directly across the street from where he began “airplane-style” upstairs office with windows his flying school and furthered his technical on all sides. He referred to it as his “Thinkoaeronautical innovations. He built a bungalowrium.”

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It was the only part of the Curtiss home that survived a fire in the 1960s. It was salvaged and is now contained within the Curtiss Museum, housing pieces of Curtiss’ original furnishings including a large globe plus other items from his family homes.

Through that winter, Curtiss developed a pontoon aircraft that enabled water landings and takeoffs, and on Jan. 26, 1911, he flew the first seaplane from U.S. waters.

Of particular interest to the Navy, Lt. Ely also landed his Curtiss pusher on a makeshift platform mounted on the rear deck of the battleship, USS Pennsylvania, marking the first arrester-cable landing on a ship. This “tail hook” technology continues to be used by the Navy today.

At what is now North Island Naval Air Station, Curtiss made his first amphibious demonstration by taking off and landing on both land and water. In July 1911, Curtiss sold the Navy their first aircraft, the A-1 Triad, which was also the first amphibious aircraft.

That same year, Curtiss was granted U. S. Pilot’s License No. 1 from the Aero Club of America, while Wilbur Wright was No. 5.

(Sorry, Wilbur, the licenses were granted in alphabetical order!)

When Wilbur Wright died on May 30, 1912 of typhoid fever, Orville Wright blamed Curtiss, saying that the exhausting travels and stress of the legal battles likely suppressed his brother’s immune system, which led to him contracting typhus.

Finally, with the outbreak of World War I, the U.S. government had had enough; it stepped in and seized control of the patents, opening them up to the entire public, and paying Orville Wright-Martin, (later Wright Aviation) and Curtiss Aviation $1 million each.

In an ironic twist, Wright Aviation and Curtiss Aeroplane Company merged in 1929 to form Curtiss-Wright Corporation, which remains in business today. The company’s website describes it as “a diversified global provider of highly engineered products and services of motion control, flow control, and metal treatment.”

The actual ‘airplane loft’ second floor of Glenn Curtiss’ Hammondsport home was salvaged from a 1960’s fire and is on display at the Curtiss Museum. It is remarkably similar to the second floor of the GEM-award winning Curtiss home in Coronado.

Land development, boats, movie studios and the first R Vs…Oh My!

In 1916, as military orders increased in lockstep with the impending world war, Curtiss moved the company headquarters and manufacturing center to Buffalo, which allowed for far greater access to supplies, transportation networks and an employee base.

After the First World War, Curtiss turned his efforts away from aviation. “It wasn’t just that the military’s need for planes had gone away,” said Leisenring, “Every aspect of aviation had become industrialized to sell products to consumers. Glenn liked to roll up his sleeves and as his company grew he had less and less opportunity to do that, requiring him to be a businessman. But he was a tinkerer at heart.”

Curtiss’ curiosity led him in many directions. Like many New Yorkers, he enjoyed trips to Florida, especially to escape the economic pressures of World War I and its aftermath. Curtiss enjoyed hunting and fishing and was known to snare an alligator or two. He decided to go into land development, buying a large tract of land and creating three pre-planned communities: Opa Loca, Hialeah and Miami Springs. Each community had individual architectural themes. They were successful, as people were out traveling by car after the war and a land boom started in Florida.

Curtiss built a movie studio in Miami Springs. “Glenn was into everything,” Leisenring said. “The Miami Springs Studio opened its doors in 1922 and the first year brought in $600,000 in revenue. Over the next

four years 30 films were made at the studio, with noted filmmaker D.W. Griffith working there along with several stars of the silent screen.”

Curtiss also built boats; his “Miss Miami” held a water speed record for several years. A smaller motorboat that he had built in 1922 by Air Ships, Inc. in Hammondsport is on display at the museum. Curtiss motored around Keuka Lake on it where he spent summers.

Everything took a turn for the worst in 1926. Leisenring said, “There was the great Miami hurricane -- a Class 5 hurricane that hit his three communities. It was a one-two punch, as the land boom started to turn.

Inflating land prices discouraged home buying, and then the hurricane hit. The destruction was devastating.”

Leisenring said an estimated 410 to 800 people were killed (migrant farm workers made an accurate count difficult), 6,000 more were injured and 13,000 homes were destroyed. The estimated $1 million in property damages would equal approximately $144 billion in today’s dollars.

Curtiss was still a millionaire, and he now focused on building some of the world’s first recreational vehicles, in partnership with his younger half-brother, Carl Adams. Back in the 1890s, Glenn’s mother had remarried, then divorced. Carl came to live with Glenn in Hammondsport when he was a preteen. “Carl admired Glenn and was always in the background,” Leisenring said. “Likewise, Glenn doted on his brother and helped him establish the Adams Motor Bungalow Company in 1917, which continued through 1923.”

In 1928, Curtiss and his brother worked with Carl Fisher, a partner in the Indianapolis Speedway, and elevated the designs into luxurious “Curtiss Aerocars” with company headquarters in Florida. Most often the Aerocars were pulled by rumble-seat coupes, with custom design hitches.

At the time of his death, Curtiss was in the process of creating the first “Safari Park” in America and had hired a German architect to create the first designs.

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A reluctant millionaire Throughout his life, Curtiss was generous

in spirit and monetary gifts, Leisenring noted.

“He didn’t like being labeled a millionaire, which he saw as a burden, making him a target for lawsuits and for people asking for

handouts. Instead, he liked to encourage other inventors and give them money to get started.”

Curtiss did a lot to help former employees after the war. “When he closed his Hammondsport plant, he would quietly pay fuel bills and mortgages for many of his former employees and never asked to be repaid,” Leisenring said. “He invited other businesses to move to Hammondsport and take over his factories.

The entire Finger Lakes region’s economy was devastated for quite a while, as Prohibition had also shut down the wineries. Curtiss

After World War I, Curtiss (left), turned his attention to other inventions, like the first fifth wheel RVs in the United States.

helped several people reestablish themselves in Florida, where he also built an electric power plant in Miami Springs and sold it to the city for $1.

Curtiss died July 23, 1930 of complications following an appendectomy. He was only 52.

Who knows what he might have invented had he lived another 20 years.

If You Go:

The Curtiss Museum Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily, May 1 – Oct. 31; 10 a.m. – 4p.m.

Nov. 1 – April 30, Closed on Easter, Thanksgiving Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day Admission: $13.50, general; $12, seniors, 65+, $10, ages 7 – 18; 6 and under, free.

Address: 8419 State Route 54, Hammondsport, New York. www.curtissmuseum.org (607) 569-2160

Virginia Dare was the boat that Glenn Curtiss had built in Hammondsport for the many summers he spent on Lake Keuka.

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Photo by Kel Casey

P40 | Coronado Magazine

Grand Caribe Shoreline Park Turns 25 by Mary Berube The quiet of Grand Caribe Shoreline Park is deceptive.

Despite the often calm bay and the blue sky overhead, this small sliver of a Port of San Diego park preserve is home to quiet stories of a struggle to survive in this mostly arid climate. Northern Harriers hunt for rabbits.

Great Egrets stalk lizards. Larger fish nestling in the eel grass are suddenly pursued by a seal. Cooper’s and RedTailed Hawks look for prey. A Peregrine Falcon, diving at 200 mph, this time towards an Elegant Tern which had been eyeing some small fish below in the waves.

Perhaps renowned artist Christopher Slatoff had this in mind when he created the sculpture of Sheltering Wings at Grand Caribe Shoreline Park, 598 Grand Caribe Causeway, 25 years ago this summer. The sculpture depicts a Great Blue Heron mother sheltering her young offspring. His sculpture has anchored and aged with this park and nurtured appreciation for public art in Coronado. “Sheltering Wings” was the first Port-owned public art piece in Coronado. Since that installation the Port’s collection in Coronado has grown to eight pieces with the latest, “Penelope,” dedicated in Tidelands in 2019.

The idea of a Blue Heron sculpture originated with Coronado community group members. Slatoff created two Blue Herons as a tribute to the rare birds which can be seen feeding and resting on Grand Caribe Isle. The sculpture symbolizes the idea of protecting the fragile environment.

The road to get to the 25th anniversary of the park began with the Silver Strand Beautification Project (SSBP), founded in 1992, a grass-roots organization whose focus has been to enhance the environment of the Silver Strand State Beach, Scenic Route 75, and local parks and beach fronts within the Cays environs. They envisioned, worked, and fought for a natural habitat that helped create the Shoreline Park.

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Above Photos by Mary Berube

Photo by Kel Casey Celebration of Grand Caribe Shoreline Park. From left, Christopher Slatoff, Liza Butler, Mary Berube and Mike Donovan.

Five years ago, after lawn had replaced the original plantings and a five year drought had allowed weedy crown daisies to overcome the native California plants, a few residents and a South Bay Girl Scout troop worked with a grant from the California Native Plant Society to begin to bring the coastal sage scrub back to life. This collection of plants, uniquely adapted to the low rainfall during summer and short rain season in winter, provides shelter and food for many migrating species of birds which seek a respite from their long journeys to and from parts as far north as Canada and as far south as Colombia.

Andrew Meyer, Director of Conservation at San Diego Audubon relates, “We’re on the Pacific Flyway, a hemispheric superhighway for American birds…[and] because of habitat loss, pollution, invasive species, cats and building collisions,” we are 3 billion birds poorer than we were in the 1970s. He noted that the restoration of the park and many more projects like this are necessary to bring the birds back and to become resilient to future effects of climate change.

Over the next few years, others volunteered

their time and energy to replant the park as company volunteer service days and, most recently, the many volunteers of San Diego Audubon who continue to restore the land for birds and pollinators. Well over 1000 plants have been reinstalled.

This important piece of coastal sage scrub ties the southern part of the bay with the San Diego Wildlife Refuge to the Silver Strand State Park bayside and continuing north through the Least Tern preserves.

These islands of habitat allow creatures an ability to eat and rest all along the shores of the South Bay. Megan Flaherty, Conservation Manager at San Diego Audubon, explains, “Restored coastal sage scrub has been shown to sequester carbon, and native plants do a better job at retaining sediment preventing erosion, ensuring that we have a beach to enjoy. This rare habitat, which is declining in San Diego and southern California due to development and invasive species, supports endangered species like Belding’s Savannah Sparrow and the Coastal California Gnatcatcher. The variety of sages and other flowering plants attract a diversity of native pollinators, like some of our

P42 | Coronado Magazine

hundreds of native bumblebees!”

She notes, too, that “there are plenty of seabirds that use the offshore waters [of the Bay] including Elegant, Royal, Forester’s and Gull-billed Terns, Black Skimmers and more.”

And what goes on in that Bay? Rays swim along the bottom, sea turtles feed on the grasses, the grasses shelter small fish. There are sharks, seals, diving pelicans, dolphins and people kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, and fishing.

Several volunteers work with local scientists on documenting wave and erosion damage, sea turtles, and raptors. No boats can travel above 5mph to protect the sea life and the resting migratory birds – and if they do, it’s not the right thing to do.

Many unsung people clean up trash, dog waste, and follow the advice: “Take only pictures, leave only footprints!”

On Friday, July 30, the community celebrated 25 years with Grand Caribe Shoreline Park Day, where more than 100 people came together in the park. Founding members of the SSBP, people from the Audubon, and the Sheltering Wings artist were all there.

Slatoff said, “This is more beautiful now than the day we put it in. …The greatest ideals of humanity go into art. ...This is about home and protection; those sheltering wings. ...Some days you’re the big bird and some days you’re the little bird and today I’m that little bird being embraced by Coronado. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is.”

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Colors of a Summer Sunset

by Susie Clifford Photos by Brooke Clifford

Sun-kissed and well loved, August offers the best of summer - blue skies, warm weather and lazy days - and the bounty of the freshest vegetables and fruits.

P44 | Coronado Magazine

P neapple Tart Tart shell * 1 whole pineapple, minced, with juices ** 3/4 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons cornstarch 1/4 cup water 1 teaspoon vanilla 3 tablespoons butter In medium size pot, bring sugar, salt and minced pineapple to boil; reduce heat to medium low and cook 35 minutes, continuing a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.

In a small bowl, dissolve cornstarch in water. Add to pineapple and cook 3-4 minutes until thickened. Add vanilla and butter, stir to incorporate. Let cool to room temperature.

Partially bake tart shell, remove from oven. Add the pineapple filling and continue baking until tart shell is fully cooked. * Pictured here, Sweet Buttery Tart Crust, recipe from Silver Palate baked in a 14 X 5.9” tart pan. Can use 9” round tart pan. ** Can use 20 ounce can pineapple instead of fresh.

Adapted from casablancacooks.com.

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“The sunshine was like powdered gold over the grassy hillside.”

- Maud Hart Lovelace

Slice peaches or nectarines in half and grill. Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with honey, with pinches of salt and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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“I’d see the summer garden in rainbow clouds.”

- Robert Bridges

For a perfect Tomato Tart, use phyllo dough (brush butter or oil in between each layer) or puff pastry as your base. Mix ricotta cheese (about 1 1/4 cup) with chopped fresh basil and chives and lemon zest to taste. Top with thinly sliced tomatoes and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake at 400º for 25-30 minutes until crust is golden brown.Serve warm or at room temperature.

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“The world of leaf and blade and flowers explode, and every sunset is different.”

- John Steinbeck

P48 | Coronado Magazine

Adapted from winealittlecookalot.com

Sunset Mango Chicken Kabobs Marinade 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce 1 tablespoon fish sauce 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced 1 teaspoon garlic, minced 1 teaspoon curry powder 2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional) 2 tablespoons lime juice 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon olive oil

For kababs, all cut to 1” pieces: 1 1/2 -2 pounds chicken 2 red bell peppers 2 mangos, peeled 1 red onion Garnish: Fresh cilantro Lime wedges

Mix all marinade ingredients together and marinate chicken for at least one hour or overnight. If using wooden skewers, soak at least 30 minutes. Thread alternately chicken, bell pepper, onion and mango on skewers. Brush skewers with oil and oil grill. Cook 5-7 minutes per side until chicken is fully cooked.

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What’s in Season?

It’s summer

and the watermelon is ripe!

This summertime treat is now in abundance; it’s

To choose a ripe watermelon, look for a strong stripe

best from May through September. Watermelon has

pattern and a dull looking skin. The spot that rested on the

been valued for its high water content (90%) and

ground should be yellow in color. Tap a watermelon - listen

savored for its sweet taste for millenniums. It made

for a deep, hollow sound. Choose one that is heavier for

an appearance in 4000 year old Egyptian art and

its size. To store whole watermelon, it is best kept at room

its oldest seed dates 5000 years. Spanish settlers

temperature 7 to 10 days. Cut what you need, storing

brought the watermelon to the Americas and Capt.

large sections covered in plastic wrap or bite size pieces

Cook gets credit for bringing it to the Pacific Islands.

in covered container in the fridge. Once cut, it should be

Watermelons help you hydrate and they contain

eaten in 3-4 days. Frozen watermelon, without the rind is

a high amount of vitamins A, C and B6, lycopene, antioxidants and amino acids. It is fat free and low in

good for drinks, smoothies, ice cream and popsicles.

Oh, so refreshing - watermelon!

sodium and calories.

155 Orange Avenue

619.435.0776

Open 8:30 am to 9:00 pm Daily P50 | Coronado Magazine

furry FAMILY

We love our dog with all our hearts, but not so much her stinky farts. Her doggy breath is less than fresh, yet we hug her nonetheless.

Excerpt from The Imperfect Dog by, Cynthia Naspinski

Buster, Sparkle, Newbie, Speedy and then there’s Pixie our smallest kitty, one, two, three and four and five, they’re so frisky, so alive.

Excerpt from My Five Kitty Cats by, Suzanne Hofbauer

Coronado Magazine | P51

Financial Future

for Women Post Pandemic Presented by Jane Braun, CFP ®

Over the past year, we have all felt the effects of the coronavirus pandemic in one way or another. As the job losses and unemployment numbers tell us, it’s staggeringly clear that women have been disproportionately affected. Women have lost or scaled back their careers, with their labor force participation now at a 30-year low. At the same time, their responsibilities in terms of child care and home schooling have risen by more than six hours per day. For many, it has reached a crisis point.

If you are one of the many women whose lives and finances have been turned upside down by the pandemic, you might be struggling with what to do next.

Fortunately, there are strategies to address your immediate concerns and help you plan for a healthy financial future.

Unemployment compensation Unemployment compensation is taxable, including the additional weekly $600 authorized by the CARES Act. (To learn more, see Form 1099-G, Certain Government Payments.) At the state level, California does not tax unemployment benefits.

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) signed by President Biden on March 11, 2021, includes some tax relief.

Under ARPA, the first $10,200 of unemployment benefits received

in 2020 will be tax-free for individuals whose modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is less than $150,000.

If you are unemployed and will continue to receive unemployment payments in 2021, there’s a simple solution to minimize any future tax surprises: complete Form W-4V to voluntarily withhold taxes from your unemployment benefits. The withholding rate is a flat 10 percent.

P52 | Coronado Magazine

Coronavirus-related distributions (CRDs) If you supplemented your cash flow with CRDs from an IRA or other retirement plan (e.g., 401(k)), you will have more complex choices to consider. To help make the decision that is right for you, it’s important to know all of the options: • The full amount of the distribution may be reported as income in the year it’s distributed.

• The full amount of the distribution may be reported ratably in one-third increments spread over three years.

For example, an individual who received a $9,000 CRD in 2020 would report $3,000 in income in 2020, 2021, and 2022.

• Individuals have a three-year window that begins the day after they receive a distribution to recontribute all or a portion of it to a retirement plan or IRA. • Individuals who reported a CRD and then rolled it back into an IRA or retirement plan can claim a refund for the income tax paid in a prior year.

The choice to report a distribution in one year or to spread it out ratably over three years is irrevocable, so it requires careful consideration.

Health Care Coverage Health insurance can be the biggest immediate worry after losing a job, especially for single mothers who can’t rely on a spouse’s coverage.

Fortunately, there are several options at your disposal. For example, you may be eligible for Medicaid coverage, (39 states recently expanded the Medicaid program). Alternatively, the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA’s) Health Insurance Marketplace provides all Americans with nationwide access to health insurance.

Extended open enrollment. For those who missed the fall open enrollment period for ACA insurance or who want to make changes to their plan, the statebased marketplaces are an option for California residents. If you lost your job, you have a 60-day special enrollment period to find health insurance in either the federal or state marketplace.

Marketplaces have links to information about eligibility for premium subsidies and assistance for selecting the right plan.

COBRA. Another option is COBRA, though it is more expensive. You could be covered by this plan—and keep the health insurance policy you had while employed—for 18 months after a layoff or reduction in work hours.

Unfortunately, COBRA coverage may cost up to 102 percent of the health plan’s full premium.

Short-term plans. Other options, such as short-term health plans, which can be used for up to 36 months, may offer only limited benefits. Unlike ACA plans, short-terms plans are not required to provide the following 10 essential health benefits:

Careers in Transition

Social security.

Social security retirement benefits are based on an individual’s primary insurance amount (PIA), which is calculated from your average indexed monthly earnings during your 35 highest earning years.

Social security records a zero for each year that you do not earn income. More zeros—especially during the primary earning years after age 40—can reduce your PIA and cannot be recouped through later employment. Although you may think your absence from the workforce will be temporary, it may lead to an extended time away from employment.

The Women in the Workplace 2020 report from McKinsey and Lean In highlighted several structural factors causing one in four women to downshift their career or stop working altogether.

Among the primary culprits, according to the McKinsey report, are concerns that employers view caregivers of children and adult parents as not fully committed to their jobs. But shifting priorities and changing a career path to meet a present problem will affect your future social security benefits, retirement security, and household net worth.

Planning for a Healthy Post-COVID Life As we settle in to the second half of 2021, vaccines bring hope that the medical risks may soon be behind us. Unfortunately, that is unlikely to quickly reverse the damage to women’s earnings.

It is a difficult time, but you needn’t navigate it alone. A financial planner can help you consider all the options when it comes to unemployment compensation, health care, social security, and retirement savings to help stabilize your immediate cash flow and get you back on the road to long-term financial security.

• Laboratory services • Emergency services • Prescription drugs • Mental health and substance use disorder services • Maternity and newborn care • Rehabilitative services • Ambulatory patient services • Preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management • Hospitalization • Pediatric services, including vision and dental care Keep in mind that insufficient coverage for any of these health care needs could expose you to bills that will affect your family’s financial security for years. As such, addressing this issue now is vital in coping with the pandemic’s long-term effect on your finances.

Retirement savings.

Even if your career is in transition, there are still ways to save for retirement. For instance, you can contribute to a spousal traditional or Roth IRA if you are married, file a joint income tax return, and have a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) below the threshold set for that tax year. If you are older than 50, you can make an extra $1,000 catch-up contribution, as long as your MAGI is below the annual threshold. The amount you can contribute to a spousal IRA will begin to phase out within certain MAGI ranges, and it will end once MAGI exceeds an annual specified limit. Spousal IRAs are available for all married couples, including same-sex unions.

Jane Braun is located at 1013 Park Place, Coronado, CA 92118 in the Coronado Historical Association Building and can be reached at (619) 537-0200. Jane is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative with/and offers securities through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Fixed insurance products and services are offered through CES Insurance Agency. CA Insurance License 0E15655, © 2021 Commonwealth Financial Network

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P54 | Coronado Magazine

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Island Icons:

Julia Viera “Stand By Because There Are Going to Be a Lot of Changes”

By Zoraida Payne, Coronado Historical Association Volunteer “Stand by, because there are going to be a lot of changes,” is the advice Julia Yanquell Viera would give to her 16 year old self. At 94, she currently lives in an Alameda residence purchased by her parents in 1944. She sits up straight with a plumeria pin on her sweater, given to her by her daughter as a reminder of the years that Hawaii was one of the 36 Navy destinations that they called home. Viera shared her wealth of memories in our recent and fascinating conversation.

Mrs. Viera at her Alameda Boulevard residence in June 2021. Photo by Gary Payne

During the winter of 1928 in Boston, at the age of 2, Viera boarded the

that I loved. We used to ride all the way

transcontinental train with her mother

around the island…When we got to Ocean

toward their new residence in Southern

Boulevard, if it was high tide, we had to

California. Her father, Charles Yanquell,

walk along the street, but if it was low tide,

a pioneer Navy flight surgeon, embarked

we rode along the sand to the hotel, crossed

in the USS Lexington aircraft carrier in

at the hotel, and went along the island.”

Boston and met his family in Coronado.

Her continued passion for horses in other

Even on day one, her parents were struck

Navy locations led her to win cups and

by the charming city of almost 5,400

ribbons.

inhabitants at the time, and the Yanquells decided this place was home.

Although Viera was in and out of

Viera also fondly remembers Central Drug Store. She shared a story about the store’s scale: “When I was in third grade…

Coronado schools due to her father’s

after dinner, my father would say: We

changing Navy duties, she fondly treasures

will walk up to the drugstore and you can

her recollections of the family’s time in

have an ice cream; I’ll buy a paper and we

Coronado. Among them she said, “The

will weigh you on the scale.” When the

thing that I wanted to do more than

closing of the drugstore took place, Viera

anything was to ride horses, and we had

called the Coronado Historical Association

stables in Coronado...They made me wait

requesting, “Don’t lose that scale.”

until I was 9 years old. I had a picture of

Her crucial call ensured that the 1919

me on the star horse, who was a polo pony P56 | Coronado Magazine

Flight Surgeon Charles Yanquell with his 2-year-old daughter, Julia Yanquell, in North Island beach. 1928.

Photo courtesy Julia Viera

The three 14-year-olds, from left, Julia Radford Yanquell (Viera), Molly McGowan, and Joan Cross, decided to have the Christmas dance on Dec. 24 1941 at the Commissioned Officers mess at North Island.

The photo was taken by Sidney Studios and ran in the Coronado Journal.

lollipop-style Toledo scale remains part of Coronado’s historical heritage.

Julia Viera on her wedding day, on March 3, 1954, North Island.

Photo courtesy Julia Viera

In 1944, she graduated from Coronado

accomplishments in her adopted city, in

High School and from UCLA four years

2005, four years after losing her husband,

later. In 1954, Viera drove her 1948 Ford

Viera thought, “What am I doing in this

said that when she was in eighth grade,

Woodie from Washington to North Island

big city all by myself? So, I came home and

she was among the shortest in her class

Chapel. On March 3, 1954, she married

it is the best, most wonderful thing I could

with a height of 5’. When she came back

Captain Jack Viera. They lived a unique

possibly have done.”

to Coronado a year and a half later, she

and often exciting 48 years together - many

astonished her friends with her 5’7” height.

of them overseas following his Navy UDT

confirmed her move back to Coronado

In December 1941, Viera, with two

(now SEAL) and Merchant Marine Master

came shortly after arriving. “The retired

high school freshman friends, organized

career. Viera was a great companion to her

SEAL Moki Martin in his wheelchair

the Christmas dance at the Officers Club

husband and his team. As she recalls, “Back

welcomed me saying, ‘Captain Viera is the

at North Island. Although the invitation

in the day, the Commanding Officer’s wife

hero of my life.’ So, I thought, this will do.”

was published in the Coronado Journal, the

was the psychiatrist, the nurse.”

Also, with a twinkle in her eyes, she

dance was cancelled due to the bombing

Since her move back to Coronado,

One of the many positive signs that

Viera’s relentless spirit remains civically committed with her 116 and counting

of Pearl Harbor. On Dec. 7, 1941 she got

she has been hosting the annual Navy

opinion pieces published in Coronado and

the news of Pearl Harbor from a friend’s

SEAL gathering in her own backyard every

San Diego newspapers and the Economist.

phone call, who had just heard it on the

August.

She also plays tennis three times a week.

radio. At the time, her father was at sea in

After their wedding, the newlyweds

She is already back on the court, after

the Atlantic due to the presence of German

settled in Jack Viera’s native San Francisco,

a recent fall. Clearly, her joie de vivre is

submarines, and she was living with her

where Julia Viera got civically involved

contagious and her attitude is exemplary.

mother and her younger sister, Elizabeth,

in many prominent city boards, the Park,

at 727 G Avenue. This was their first family

the Port, and more. In September 2005,

“Coronado has been the most wonderful

home in Coronado; they built it in 1939

she was recognized with “Julia Viera

town. There is no question about that.”

and it does not exist anymore.

Day” in San Francisco. Despite the list of Coronado Magazine | P57

Reflecting upon Coronado, Viera said,

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P60 | Coronado Magazine

Find Your Agent

Scott Aurich

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Coronado Magazine | P61

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Julia M. Elassaad (619) 573-8350 jelassaad@cbwhomes.com

Monique Fuzet (619) 994-4453

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P62 | Coronado Magazine

(619) 339-9736 (619) 339-2383 DRE#01738738

DRE#0045410

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Find Your Agent

Neva Kaye

Myssie McCann

(619) 865-2019

(619) 435-6238

DRE#01925476

DRE#02145422

neva.kaye@sothebysrealty.com nevakayegroup.com Pacific Sotheby’s Realty

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(619) 985-2726

mollykorson1@aol.com

MollyHainesMcKay@gmail.com

DRE#01379254

DRE#01876062

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DRE#01369875

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Victoria Wise (619) 519-0352

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Coronado Magazine | P63

THE KATHY POUNDS TEAM Compass Real Estate

Find Your Agent

Ken Pecus (619) 977-8419 ken@kenpecus.com

DRE#01144127

Beth Delano

DRE#0126197

(619) 847-3524 (619) 514-7740 Flagship.net

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Lisa Davenport (619) 261-5963

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P64 | Coronado Magazine

DRE#01897051 Real Living Napolitano Real Estate

H

Find Your Agent

ealth

& D

W

ellness

I

R E C T O

R Y

Crown Island Family Practice

Olga Stevens

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Real Living Napolitano Real Estate

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(619) 302-9239

171 C Avenue,Coronado

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MULLINS

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Coronado Magazine | P65

950 Orange Avenue Coronado, 92118

Advertise here!

619-437-8800 Patricia x203 • Amanda x204 • Renee x211

the final word Coronadans share their thoughts on

FAMILY

They say, “You can choose your friends, but you can’t choose your family.” A wise woman I know says, “Treat your friends like family and your family like friends.” While these proverbial tidbits imply the given nature of family, most of us know there are families we choose in addition to those we come by naturally. In fact, most of us claim many “families”— our household family, faith family, Navy family, Islander family, to name a few.

“Family” describes the who and how of our human relationships. Although family can bring out the best and worst in us, there’s something undeniably special about family.

Our innate familial connections nag at us to transcend simple transaction, to set scoresheets aside.

Families profit, rather, in unconditional forgiveness, generosity and acceptance, and when we extend these qualities beyond our given families to our human family, we reflect a glimmer of the divine.

“Family Ties?”

The various DNA testing kits can help us learn more about our ancestry and our connection with the past. These tests can help people gain insight into the “family tree” shared with others. Yet, some realize that the concept of family is more than a genetic link.

Our relationship with others and shared experiences involves more than the color of one’s eyes or hair but the depth of one’s mind and soul.

It is often said, “There is the family you are born into and the family you choose.” We may be connected to family by blood, but “family ties” are deeply connected with those we share the “blood, sweat, and tears” of life. Every experience is an opportunity to grow one’s “family” and deepen old and new rela-

While there are many ways to define family, I’ve always seen family as the people who feel like home, beginning with my mom, dad, and brother and expanding out to my closest friends. They’re people who unconditionally accept me and make any place feel that much happier and more welcoming. No matter where I am, I feel comfortable enough to express myself without judgment around them.

Family is that warm fuzzy feeling I get when I’m laughing around a beach bonfire or how we all get a little too competitive over the Monopoly game at Christmas. It’s collectively crying happy tears because my team just won the big game or the little squeeze of support someone gives me when they know I don’t have the energy to talk but want me to know they’re there for me.

Family is the haven I run to when I’m having a bad day, and luckily for me, my family never stops growing.

My Greek father, the youngest of eight children, ingrained in me the value of family. My parents were married for 54 years before they passed, so you can imagine the curve ball that my divorce threw me as I tried to instill those values on to my children.

After years of trying to redefine what family means, I finally recognized that my definition was too limited.

Though I always knew it in my head, while writing this my heart finally got that our family is larger than our immediate household. It includes my siblings, their families and all the amazing lifetime friends that round out our lives. My children and I are blessed with so many loved ones. Lifetime relationships filled with unconditional love…that’s family.

About nine years ago, I decided to get a dog. I thought I would be up for the challenge. Walk him twice a day, feed him, dote on him. Should be easy. For a time, it was easy, but over the course of months and years, I observed my dog’s behavior changing. One day, something small would be knocked over or chewed.

Weeks later, a bunch of books knocked off of a bookshelf. However, over time my dog’s behaviors were increasingly destructive to the point that he was jumping out of windows, chewing metal doorknobs, opening or breaking through doors, or even opening the refrigerator door and eating stuff. As I better understood the separation anxiety that he was struggling with, I was lucky to be able to rely on my family to help me settle this dog down while I was at work teaching or doing things with the city. My Dad in particular would say that helping with this dog was a way he could help our city. Sometimes, it takes a village.

Christina Bagaglio Slentz, PhD Local Mom, Spouse, Navy Veteran and habitual volunteer

The Rev. Dr. Brian K. Oltman Resurrection Lutheran Church www.rl.church

Samantha Lorr CHS Class of 2021 Valedictorian

Georgia Chakos Ferrell Coronado Mom

Casey Tanaka AP U.S. History Teacher Coronado High School

P66 | Coronado Magazine

We built them, We sell them, We lease them

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