A Taste of Coronado Beauty & Island Integrative Health
Bill Brown & the Balboa Park Carousel
Into the Coronado Lifestyle
COVER: Photo by Joel Ortiz | @joelphotoguyortiz
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EDITORS’ NOTE Sara Stillman and Chelsea Fox of the Coronado Junior Woman’s Club
Photos by Joel Ortiz
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PUBLISHER Heather Canton heather@crowncitypublishing.com
GUEST EDITOR Sara Stillman and Chelsea Fox of the Coronado Junior Woman’s Club
SENIOR COPY EDITOR
Sydney Zoehrer
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Sara Stillman, Chelsea Fox, Melissa Peirce Coronado Junior Woman’s Club
Denise Donato, Doreen Genmark Heath, Carol Pastor
Clyde Van Arsdall IV, Jessica Nicolls, Karyn Molina
Marilyn Klisser Colby Erickson Freer Jaqueline Luna, Gina Benedetto
ART & PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS
Joel Ortiz, Juliane Morris, Sara France Shay Studios
Forever Balboa Park, Dr. Angelique Stump
Olivia Rakowski, Coronado Historical Association
Clyde Van Arsdall IV, Salon On First, Bungalow 56 Coronado Floral Association, Coronado Public Library
All Souls Reiki
SPECIAL THANKS TO Coronado Junior Woman’s Club
Sarah Stillman, Forever Balboa Park
A Taste of Coronado Returns
On Wednesday, October 8, A Taste of Coronado celebrates its 16th year, the most dazzling yet. What started as a simple tasting of local bites has evolved into an evening that defines Coronado: community, generosity and a little indulgence. Past chairs Deann Brown, Jessica Settle Cunningham, Renee Nutter and Michelle Munns shaped this tradition. This year, I have the privilege of serving as chair of A Taste of Coronado on behalf of the Coronado Junior Woman’s Club.
Expect more than 30 of Coronado’s top restaurants and shops donating their time, talent and tastes. Walk, bike or trolley on a delicious self-guided tour. Check in at Rotary Park, Coronado Ferry Landing or Clayton’s Bistro. For an elevated experience, our VIP program, sponsored by the Canu Family and Cal Private Bank, offers early entry, exclusive tastings, specialty drinks and a line-skipping lanyard.
This year’s beneficiary is Forever Balboa Park and the Carousel Restoration, a project with Coronado roots. This very carousel once stood on the island in the early 1900s. By coming together, we’ll help ensure this historic treasure spins for generations to come.
None of this would be possible without our sponsors, with special recognition to the Hotel del Coronado for returning as our presenting sponsor. Their generosity, and that of our restaurants and volunteers, ensures this event thrives while funding programs that enrich the community.
A Taste of Coronado has always been special to me for how it brings our community together so meaningfully. I’m honored to help carry forward the legacy of this impactful event.
I hope you’ll join me for our island’s favorite night. From local flavors to spirited volunteers and our generous community, A Taste of Coronado is more than an evening out; it’s a tradition that gives back. Stroll. Savor. Celebrate Coronado.
Tickets online at atasteofcoronado.com. Follow along on Instagram @A_Taste_Of_Coronado and @CJWC92118.
Sincerely,
Sara Stillman
Chair, A Taste of Coronado on behalf of the Coronado Junior Woman’s Club
Coronado is special not just for its breathtaking views, but for the joy and generosity of its people. A Taste of Coronado captures that magic perfectly! What began sixteen years ago as a small, inspired idea has grown into a festive celebration that lights up the island every year.
As President of the Coronado Junior Woman’s Club (CJWC), I am incredibly proud of how our members, volunteers and generous sponsors have built something that goes far above an evening of food and fun. Each ticket purchased, each sip and bite enjoyed, directly supports causes that strengthen our community and beyond. A Taste of Coronado is proof of the good that happens when neighbors come together.
For those who might not be familiar with the work we do, our club really does it all. Of course, there are the big fundraisers like Taste of Coronado and our tennis event Double Served, but we also love providing scholarship opportunities, painting windows for Halloween, hosting the Youth Tent at the Flower Show and creating fun community events throughout the year. What makes it so special is that every dollar we raise goes right back into Coronado, whether it’s supporting schools, sailing programs or local charities. It’s a joy to be part of something that’s both fun and meaningful.
On behalf of the CJWC, thank you for celebrating with us. Whether it’s your first Taste or your sixteenth, we’re delighted to welcome you. Here’s to a night of community, connection and Coronado at its very best.
Warmly,
Chelsea Fox President, Coronado Junior Woman’s Club
Things to Do On-Island
Art in the Park
Local art sale on the first and third Sundays of each month, from 10am-4pm at Spreckels Park. CoronadoArtAssn.com
10/5 10am-2pm Public Safety Open House
A free event to Kick off Fire Prevention Week at the Fire Station, 1001 6th Street. coronado.ca.us
10/7 11am-3pm Coronado Historical Association’s 6th Annual Collections Luncheon
A social fundraiser that directly benefits Coronado’s historical collections and preservation efforts. Read more on page 32! coronadohistory.org
10/8 5-9pm A Taste of Coronado
The 16th annual island-wide tasting tour organized by the Coronado Junior Woman’s Club benefiting Forever Balboa Park in support of the restoration and preservation of the historic Dorothea Laub Balboa Park Carousel. Read more on page 18! coronadojuniorwomans.org
Art & History
The Coronado Public Art App serves as a guide to more than 75 works of public art. Smartphone Apps to explore
10/31 3-5:30pm MainStreet Goes Ghostly Trick-or-Treating along Orange Avenue’s business district presented by Coronado MainStreet. coronadomainstreet.org
Local Art, Theater & Entertainment
Coronado’s Historical Gems App has an extensive gallery and map to learn about local historical sites.
• The Coronado Cultural Arts Commission is the leading online resource for arts and cultural information CoronadoARTS.com
• Guided Pedicab Tour of Coronado PedalBeach.org
• Coronado Historical Association events, tours and museum CoronadoHistory.org
• Coronado Public Library CoronadoLibrary.org
• Coronado Island Film Festival year-round Classic Film Series CoronadoFilmFest.com
• Art and Frames Gallery ArtCoronado.com
• Coronado Playhouse CoronadoPlayhouse.com
• Lamb’s Players Theatre LambsPlayers.org
• Vintage Movie Theatre VintageCinemas.com
• A Community Calendar at Coronado.ca.us/calendar
• The City Manager's video with weekly updates at Coronado.ca.us/195/city-managers-weekly-updates
• Recreation and Golf Services information at Coronado.ca.us/161/Recreation-Golf-Services
Photo of Liam Casey by DEREK EMGE
619-778-0955 tina.gavzie@compass.com DRE 01205962 movetocoronado.com Contact
Meet the Tastemakers
The Committee Behind A Taste of
Coronado
Article Courtesy of the Coronado Junior Woman's Club
L-R: Yazra Yazmine Holcomb, Micki Palmer, Elle Morales, Inna Nommesen, Alexa Would, Chelsea Fox, Sara Elizabeth Stillman, Courtney Castiglione, Samecia Harbaugh, Melissa Peirce, Megan Heacock White, Marissa Nagler. Committee not pictured: Alex Escobedo, Alysia Poe, Amanda Prescia, Amy Schierhorn, Elizabeth Clark-Glynn, Jamie O'Grady, Kelly Valenzuela, Monica Yarbrough.
Photo by Sara France of Shay Studios
Every October, Coronado comes alive for one unforgettable evening: A Taste of Coronado. Guests stroll the island, sampling flavors from beloved local restaurants and savoring the community spirit that makes Coronado so unique. But behind the scenes, long before the first fork is lifted, a dedicated group of volunteers is working tirelessly to make it all happen.
They’re more than organizers — they’re tastemakers. Each brings a distinct flavor of talent, creativity and leadership to the table, shaping an event that has become one of Coronado’s most anticipated traditions.
At the helm is Chair Sara Stillman, who guides the vision, strategy and spirit of Taste of Coronado. Supporting Sara is a powerhouse team; Jamie O’Grady and Melissa Peirce head up media, building buzz and making sure the community feels the excitement months in advance. Sameica Harbaugh steers logistics, keeping every detail running smoothly behind the scenes. Micki Palmer coordinates directly with local restaurants and businesses, cultivating partnerships and making sure every stop on the map offers guests a memorable experience. Yazra Holcomb champions sponsorships, forging vital partnerships that help the event flourish. Courtney Castiglione curates the VIP experience, designing an evening that feels as special as the cause it supports. Alex Escobedo leads the volunteer team, ensuring there are plenty of helping hands to welcome guests and keep the night seamless.
Behind them stands the full of Coronado Junior Woman's Club (CJWC) members, who carry out the countless tasks that bring Taste of Coronado to life, including ticketing,
décor, guest services and restaurant support. Their collective energy and commitment ensure the evening not only dazzles guests but also fulfills its larger mission — raising funds for programs that enrich Coronado.
Together this team embodies what Taste of Coronado is all about: community, generosity and a touch of indulgence. They volunteer their time not just to host a memorable evening, but to uplift causes that matter. This year’s beneficiary.
All proceeds from Taste of Coronado go directly back to its beneficiary and to the CJWC, which donates the funds to charitable endeavors throughout the year. This year’s beneficiary, Forever Balboa Park, will receive vital support thanks to the dedication of these tastemakers and the generosity of attendees — proof that when the women of CJWC come together, they don’t just host an event, they strengthen a community.
So the next time you savor a bite at Taste of Coronado, remember that behind every flavor, every pour and every moment of community joy, there’s a committee of tastemakers who made it possible. Their work ensures that this night isn’t just about food and drink — it’s about celebrating Coronado at its very best.
Keeper of the Magic Bill Brown and the Balboa Park Carousel
By Melissa Peirce
The 1st Marine Division Band from Camp Pendleton.
Photo by Kevin Nixon.
Bill Brown, caretaker of the Balboa Park Carousel
For generations, the Balboa Park Carousel has been more than a ride. It has been a living memory, a tradition and a thread weaving together families across San Diego. Its handcarved animals, joyful music and the thrill of the brass ring have created moments that last a lifetime. But behind the carousel’s sparkle and spin is a man whose quiet devotion has kept it alive: Bill Brown, the carousel's caretaker for nearly his entire life.
“I started working here right after my sixteenth birthday,” Bill recalls with a warm smile. “My parents used to bring me as a kid, and I loved it. I asked the woman in the ticket booth how old you had to be to get a job. She said sixteen. So the day I turned sixteen, I came back and said, ‘OK — I’m ready!’”
What began as a part-time job quickly became a calling. Bill worked at the carousel through high school and college, studying at San Diego State by day and tending to the animals
and gears when he wasn’t hitting the books. Over the years, his role expanded: mechanic, restorer, historian, ambassador. “Whatever the carousel needs — that’s what I am,” he says. “One week I’m restoring an animal, the next I’m tracking down replacement gears from halfway across the country. It’s all part of keeping it going.”
A Generational Treasure
The carousel’s magic, Bill insists, is simple. “Fun,” he says. “It’s just fun. Everyone’s happy here — kids, parents, grandparents. You feel it the moment you arrive.”
That joy is generational. Families return year after year, bringing children, then grandchildren, to ride the same horses, tigers and zebras they once did. “We’ll have three generations here at the same time,” Bill explains. “It’s become a tradition for so many families in San Diego. The memories keep building.”
Some of those memories are as romantic as they are playful. “We had a man propose on our rocking chair,” Bill recalls. “They come back every year on their anniversary to ride it again. That’s the kind of connection people have. It’s part of their love story now.”
From Tent City to Balboa Park
Long before the carousel found its permanent home in Balboa Park, it enchanted summer visitors at Coronado’s Tent City, delighting families who came to vacation by the Hotel del Coronado. Its colorful history binds Coronado and Balboa Park together, two beloved San Diego icons connected by whirling horses and the laughter of children. Built in 1910, the Balboa Park
Carousel is a rare and original creation of the Herschell Spillman Company, one of the premier carousel makers of the early 20th century. Few rides of its kind still exist today in such complete and working condition, making San Diego’s carousel not just beloved, but historically significant. Even more remarkable, it remains one of the very few carousels in the world where riders can still play the classic brass ring game, a tradition as joyful today as it was more than a century ago.
Bill, a self-taught historian of the ride, has spent countless hours in archives and historical societies, piecing together its journey. “I even had to put on the white gloves to go through old newspapers and maps,” he laughs. “What we know is that the carousel was a big deal when it arrived in Coronado in 1913, and eventually it made its way to Balboa Park, where it’s been loved ever since.”
That history, Bill believes, isn’t just about dates or locations; it's about the people. “It’s been part of San Diego life for more than a century," Bill says. "Wherever it’s stood, the carousel has brought community with it.”
A Caretaker’s Hope
Now, more than 115 years since its first spin, the carousel is still running strong, but not without challenges. Its gears, original to the ride, are beginning to show
their age. “After all these years, they’re wearing down,” Bill admits. “I’m heading to a national carousel convention to learn everything I can about repairing or remaking them. My mission is to keep it going for another hundred years.”
That mission is where the community comes in. With support from Forever Balboa Park and events like A Taste of Coronado — which has named the carousel one of its main beneficiaries — the hope is to preserve not just the ride itself, but the joy it creates.
“When you think about it,” Bill says, “there aren’t many places where you can feel pure joy like this anymore. It’s a happy atmosphere — always has been, always will be. That’s worth saving.”
A Love That Keeps Spinning
The Balboa Park Carousel has always felt like ours. When my husband Brendan and I took our engagement photos 15 years ago, we began on the sandy shores of Coronado and then made our way to Balboa park — just as the carousel itself
had done a century earlier, moving from Tent City near the Hotel del Coronado to its forever home in the park. We climbed onto the carousel’s zebras, Brendan’s hand in mine, laughing, not knowing then how much those striped wooden steeds would come to mean. That photograph, two young dreamers captured in motion, became our Save the Date. Our wedding was black and white, and the bold and timeless zebras were a perfect Easter egg for what was to come.
Six years later, we returned to the same carousel, to the same zebras. Only this time, I held our sevenmonth-old son Ruairí in my arms. The journey between those two photos was longer, harder and fuller than I could have imagined. But as I held him, my heart knew it had never been so complete.
From then on, the carousel became more than a backdrop, it became our tradition, our family’s heartbeat. We celebrated Ruairí’s first birthday there. And his second. And his third. Each year, the calliope organ played like a soundtrack to a memory, the painted horses and zebras racing
beside us, the lights flickering over laughter and cake and tiny, growing hands reaching for the brass rings.
One day, I hope to bring our grandchildren here. I imagine their small feet dangling from the carousel animals, their eyes lit by the same magic that has carried us all these years. And with the help of this community, with the love of everyone who has ever felt joy on this ride, I know we will keep it spinning for another hundred years.
An Invitation to the Future
That is why the restoration of our beloved carousel moves me so deeply. To watch Bill Brown, brush in hand, carefully returning color to the animals we love feels like watching history itself take a breath. The future is getting a fresh coat of paint. The gears still need us to keep turning, but they are in good hands with Bill, with this community, with all of us who refuse to let the music stop.
Perhaps you have your own carousel story: a favorite animal, a memory with someone you love or one yet to be made. That is the gift of this place. It gathers us all into its circle, letting our stories spin alongside one another.
As I reflect on this San Diego icon, I may not have all the answers, but I know this: the carousel will still be here. Its music will still rise above the laughter. Its animals will still run in joyful circles. And love — my love, our love, the love of generations — will keep spinning, a love that keeps.
• Melissa Peirce is a local resident and proud member of the Coronado Junior Woman’s Club.
How to Support the Carousel
The Balboa Park Carousel has delighted San Diegans for more than a century, but keeping it spinning takes community support. Here’s how you can help:
• Join A Taste of Coronado – This year’s event benefits the Carousel. Every ticket helps preserve its legacy.
• Give to Forever Balboa Park –Donations fund restoration and longterm care.
• Ride the Carousel – Every spin supports operations and keeps the joy alive. Together, we can ensure the Carousel keeps turning for generations to come.
Built in 1910, the Balboa Park Carousel's first home was at Coronado’s Tent City! It was moved back and forth between Coronado and Balboa Park, until it settled in its current spot in the park in 1922. Photo taken in Coronado courtesy of Forever Balboa Park. C.1915.
Nov. 5-9, 2025
Hollywood’s Best-Kept Secret Comes to Coronado!
By Denise Donato
When you ask renowned physician Dr. Angelique Campen Stump how she spent her summer, you might expect a simple answer — “Los Angeles, mostly.” After all, as the widely celebrated “Doctor to the Stars,” Dr. Stump is known for helping Hollywood’s elite maintain their youthful, natural beauty. But behind the glamour is a woman whose passion for healing transcends red carpets and photo ops.
This summer, Dr. Stump devoted her time and expertise far from the bright lights of LA. She embarked on a week-long medical mission deep in the Brazilian Amazon, traveling by riverboat, sleeping in a hammock under mosquito netting and providing critical care to over 400 indigenous people living in remote communities with little or no access to healthcare. She also spent several weeks volunteering as the camp physician for children with special needs, a role she’s embraced for many years.
And in the midst of it all… she got married to the love of her life.
Fortunately for Coronado, her new husband is a local. That means Dr. Stump is now bringing her impressive medical background to our community, serving both in the Sharp Coronado emergency room and offering her highly soughtafter aesthetic medicine services right here at home.
Renowned doctor and humanitarian, Dr. Angelique Stump
Dr. Stump devoted her time to serving others this summer providing medical care to over 400 indigenous people in the Brazilian Amazon and volunteering as camp physician for children with special needs.
A Career Built on Compassion, Glamour and Grit
Dr. Stump’s journey is anything but conventional. Born in Los Angeles to trailblazers in real estate and early reality television, she could have easily followed a path into the entertainment world. Instead, she chose medicine, graduating at the top of her class and entering the high-stakes world of emergency care.
Early in her career, she was advised to “downplay her looks” to be taken seriously in medicine — advice she boldly rejected. With encouragement from her mother, Dr. Stump stayed true to herself. Today, she stands as a role model for women who aspire to combine intelligence, empathy and elegance in any profession.
Love brought Angelique to Coronado, where she recently married a local and they've made it their home.
Known online and in media circles as “GlamERdoc,” Dr. Stump has balanced her roles as ER physician, educator and aesthetic medicine expert for over two decades. She has served as the Medical Director of one of Los Angeles’ busiest emergency rooms. During the Covid pandemic, she served as the west coast consultant for Congress to report on the state of affairs. Subsequently, Stump became the CBS news and KNX radio medical expert giving daily reports about the COVID epidemic to provide health insights to thousands of viewers. On social media, her followers appreciate her daily health tips, which she delivers with equal parts charm and clinical authority. Her patient list includes some of the world’s most famous names. After treating the late Hugh Hefner, she was asked to become his personal physician — an offer she accepted on her own terms: in scrubs, not a bunny suit. Her loyalty to medical professionalism has always been unwavering.
A New Chapter in Coronado
Now calling Coronado home, Dr. Stump has quickly immersed herself in the community. She supports local charities such as FOCUS and is an active member of the Rotary Club. More importantly for Coronado residents, she has opened her doors to new patients … offering the same top-tier aesthetic medicine treatments once reserved for A-list clientele.
Despite a demanding schedule that includes emergency room shifts in both LA and Coronado, ongoing volunteer work and caring for her college-age twins and younger daughter, Dr. Stump remains passionate about helping people look and feel their best. Whether preparing clients for the red carpet or offering subtle, natural enhancements, she is known for delivering elegant results … and yes, even offering Botox treatments to the soles of celebrities’ feet to help them endure long nights in stilettos.
Now, Coronado residents have access to the same trusted expertise.
To inquire about appointments or in home aesthetic medicine with Dr. Angelique Campen Stump, please contact her directly at angelique.campen@ucla.edu.
• Denise Donato is a writer and longtime resident who is known for her many contributions to the community.
Dr. Stump brings her medical expertise, talent and passion for giving back to Coronado.
An Experience That Lingers Long After the Ribbon Is Untied
By Doreen Genmark Heath
Photos by Olivia Rakowski
In a sunny corner of Coronado, a woman with an eye for beauty and a heart for connection has turned her life’s experiences into something more than a business. For Ashley, founder of The Feel Good Box, the journey from interior designer to baker to giftbox curator may seem winding, but to her, it’s always been guided by the same purpose.
“The common thread has always been about helping people feel good not just in one moment, but in a way that touches the mind, heart and soul,” she says. “Whether it’s through a space, a dessert or a gift box, my purpose has always been the same: to design moments that make people feel more whole.”
That philosophy shines through in every detail of The Feel Good Box, a curated gift box designed to uplift, comfort and connect. Each box is hand-assembled with care: soothing candles, journals for reflection, soft throws, locally crafted treasures and personalized notes. Even the quotes tucked inside are chosen with intention, designed to meet the recipient exactly where they are.
Born from a Personal Need
The seed for The Feel Good Box was planted when a dear friend, Pam, fell ill. Wanting to send something significant, Ashley scoured the market only to find generic, cheaply made gift options. “I wanted something with real quality, genuine meaning and a sense of style,” she recalls. So she created her own.
The reaction was immediate and emotional. Pam cried upon receiving it, later sending Ashley photos and messages about how seen and loved she felt. “A truly thoughtful gift can be like a hand on your shoulder, reminding you that you’re not alone,” Ashley says. “That’s when I knew I wanted to make it easier for others to send that kind of gift.”
More Than Just Pretty Things
Ashley’s ability to infuse depth into her work comes from her own life story, one marked by both beauty and loss. Losing her step-sister at 12 and her mother at 17 gave her an early understanding of grief. She leaned into journaling, mindfulness, therapy and breathwork to navigate life’s storms.
“Resilience isn’t about avoiding life’s storms, it’s about meeting them with grace and gratitude,” she says. “Each box is more than beautiful items, it’s an opportunity to say, 'You matter, you’re loved, you’re not alone.'”
Themes range from New Mom-spiration to Prove Them Wrong, grief support boxes to The Chronic Pain Box, each one personalized to feel like a lifeline of support.
A Tangible Connection
One customer story has stayed with Ashley: a woman named Claire sent her sister Emma a You Matter box after a year of job loss, heartbreak and anxiety. Inside were cozy comforts, a journal and quotes reminding Emma of her worth.
A week later, Claire emailed Ashley to say Emma had received the box on a day she felt invisible. “It wasn’t just a box,” Emma told her sister. “It was proof that someone cared enough to remind me of who I am.”
Living the Lesson
Running a business, raising kids, caring for two-spirited huskies, Ashley admits that balance doesn’t happen by accident. Once a self-described people-pleaser, she’s learned to set boundaries and embrace what she calls JOMO — the Joy of Missing Out. “When you’re burnt out, no one gets the best version of you,” she says.
For Ashley, self-care often means taking quiet walks from the bay to the beach in Coronado, a form of “meditation in motion” that clears her mind and fills her cup. “Nature has a way of gently reminding us that challenges are temporary and gratitude is always within reach.”
Her children, too, have been teachers of presence. “They’re not replaying yesterday or rushing toward tomorrow,” she reflects. “Joy is so often found in the smallest, simplest moments but only if we slow down enough to notice them.”
The Art of the Box
Each Feel Good Box begins with an emotion, the feeling Ashley wants the recipient to have upon opening it. From there, she selects every item with intention, sometimes even tailoring the contents based on personal details from the sender.
“In creating something to make someone else feel good, I end up feeling good too,” she says. “Generosity nourishes both the giver and the receiver.”
Looking Ahead
Ashley envisions The Feel Good Box growing into an ecosystem of connection and wellness. Upcoming plans include collaborations with Coronado artisans, seasonal collections like Winter Glow and Spring Renewal, lifemoment boxes for major transitions, and a subscription model called The Feel Good Club.
For Ashley, the vision is clear: to make thoughtful, elevated, emotionally resonant gifting easier, more beautiful, and more personal than ever. Or, as she puts it, “An experience that lingers long after the ribbon is untied.”
Discover more about The Feel Good Box and browse the curated boxes designed to inspire joy and well-being at thefeelgoodbox.com.
• Doreen Genmark (Heath) is the Creative Director and Brand Strategist for re:deefined, a PR and event management firm. Learn more at redeefined.com.
Crown City History
IN COLLABORATION WITH CORONADO HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION
Collections Luncheon
BY CAROL PASTOR, CORONADO HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEER
PHOTOS COURTESY OF CORONADO HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION
Many of you who read my articles about our local history and the Coronado Historical Association are the same people who visit the gift shop, tour our exhibits and attend our evening lectures. But have you ever thought about what goes on behind the scenes at the CHA? Or, how many people it takes to care for the vast collection of artifacts and archives and conduct research day to day? Many of you, over the years, have asked for help obtaining information about a former family home or an ancestor, and all of these endeavors are made possible in part by CHA’s annual collections luncheon.
As we move into October, it’s time for CHA’s 6th annual luncheon, a get-together each year that directly assists the collections department. This afternoon of giving features our Curator of Collections, Vickie Stone, who presents an exclusive overview of CHA’s ongoing preservation efforts. She will showcase highlights from the treasured collection, with
Mary Ann Chapple (L) and Beth Fleming (R) admire artifacts on display at CHA's Annual Collections Luncheon. 2021.
a special focus on local World War II artifacts and archives in honor of the 80th anniversary of the end of the war and CHA’s upcoming D-Day Exhibit.
This year’s Honorary Chair, Mary Ann Chapple, will be honored for her many years of service to the CHA and the community. She has had an active role at the CHA for years, including on the Acquisitions Committee and as past president in 1995. Mary Ann’s father was Congressman Bob Wilson, who served fourteen terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. After growing up in California and becoming a Navy wife, she and her husband Mike ultimately settled in Coronado and chose to make it their permanent home after his retirement. They still reside here today. Her role at CHA in the mid-90s was crucial for fundraising efforts for CHA’s Beach House Museum on Loma Avenue. Her block party celebrating the 50th anniversary of the end of WWII, complete with the “Andrews sisters,” is forever known as one of the best parties CHA has ever held.
The upcoming Collections Luncheon event directly supports the CHA’s essential mission. A silent auction of donated baked goods will also be featured, and the luncheon will be held at the Coronado Cays Yacht Club on Tuesday, October 7th. If you have not yet purchased your tickets, this is your last chance before they are sold out. Call 619-435-7242. The new D-Day exhibit will open in early November.
• Carol Pastor and her family have lived in Coronado since the mid-1970s. Mother of seven girls, many of whom still live here in the village, Carol has been involved in the community over the years with the Friends of the Library, Historic Resource Commission, and most recently writing about Coronado history for the Coronado Historical Association. An avid history buff since her college days, exploring our local history is a perfect fit.
(L-R) Mary Ann Chapple, Tom Fleming, Gail Samuels, Susan Keith, and Bob Clark at the War and Remembrance event. 1995.
The "Andrews Sisters" Dodo Stanley, Ann Boyd and Marcia Banks at CHA's War and Remembrance event. September 1995.
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Sunday Gravy
The Sauce Built on Community and Connection
By Clyde Van Arsdall IV
Rhode Island has a thriving Italian community, and Federal Hill in Providence is its epicenter. When attending college at the University of Rhode Island, half of my fraternity brothers were Italians from North Providence or Cranston. The highlight of my week was when my roommates would return from a weekend at home with generous amounts of their Nonna’s Sunday Gravy, and so many other Italian treats.
Gravy is an Italian-American term for a red sauce — not marinara, but a hearty red sauce that has simmered for hours with various meats, such as sausages, pork chops, short ribs and meatballs. This dish, steeped in tradition and community, is a testament to the ItalianAmerican culture's emphasis on family and togetherness.
Not all Italian Americans refer to this sauce as gravy; some simply call it Sunday sauce, while others refer to it as sugo, which is short for sugo di carne, meaning meat sauce in Italian. The use of the term 'gravy' is widespread in New England as well as
parts of northern New Jersey. Sunday Gravy is traditionally served during a large family meal on Sundays, and that's where you find some of that good ol’ community and connection.
When the gravy is ready, the meats are removed from the sauce and both are served with pasta. The shape of the pasta is not particularly important, but tube shapes work great as they capture the maximum amount of gravy. My new favorite shape is bombolotti, which is a smaller version of rigatoni. This shape is excellent for holding rich and hearty sauces.
When making Sunday Gravy, tomatoes are always essential. Canned tomatoes are the best choice, as the best brands process them at their peak ripeness. Once canned, they are available year-round. San Marzano tomatoes are the Cadillac of tomatoes. The ones sold as San Marzano in supermarkets are usually not the genuine article; you have to seek them out at a specialty market. Look for cans labeled D.O.P., which stands for "Protected Designation of Origin." Understanding the importance of quality ingredients and where to find them empowers you to create the best version of Sunday Gravy.
The meats you choose are significant to the gravy, and there are many variations. The meatballs and Italian sausages, hot and sweet, are a must, but after that, you can have some fun with them. Pork chops are popular, but adding a bit of beef to the mix is always a fun and flavorful addition. Short ribs work well as they fall apart in the sauce.
Where can you find all these quality ingredients? Locally, Garage Buona Forchetta is a great place to start. The dry pastas they carry are the highest quality, as they are extruded through a bronze die. The bronze gives the pasta a rough texture, allowing it to absorb the sauce properly. The mass-produced supermarket pastas are made with a teflon die, which gives the pasta a smooth texture, and the sauce slides right off of it. The market at Garage Buona Forchetta will also have the good San Marzano tomatoes. Fresh pastas also work well, and there is no better place to get those than Assenti’s Pasta. They will also have housemade Italian sausages and meatballs. The joy of discovering these new ingredients and experimenting with them adds a sense of excitement and adventure to the cooking process.
Nothing goes better with pasta and Sunday Gravy than a great Italian wine. Again, you're in luck as Garage Buona Forchetta has a great
selection, as do Assenti’s and Mona Lisa in Little Italy. I love a bold Super Tuscan or a Sangiovese, but the best wines are the ones you like. If you shop at Buona Forchetta, Marco or Ilarria will be able to help you pick out a nice bottle. The community and connection part of Sunday Gravy is not just limited to your family and friends at the dinner table; it also includes the vendors from whom you buy all the great ingredients.
After dinner, once you have let things settle, a digestif in the form of an amaro is always a good idea. These herbaceous liqueurs are believed to help settle your stomach. If you're new to amari, Averna or Cynar are a great introduction. I have developed quite a taste for these elixirs, and I like mine higher in alcohol and bitter; for me, a small glass of Frenette Branca fits the bill. Most of the Amari mentioned can be found here in town, but Mona Lisa and Bottlecraft in Little Italy have extensive selections that will keep you coming back for more.
The satisfaction of a well-prepared meal, enjoyed with good company and complemented by a fine wine, leaves a feeling of accomplishment and contentment. Remember, cooking is a treat if you have time to enjoy the process. If time is not on your side, grab your crew and head out to one of the great Italian restaurants we have on the island: Garage Buona Forchetta, Rosemary Trattoria, Il Fornaio or Nado Republic. Until next time; a presto.
• Clyde Van Arsdall IV is a third-generation Coronado local, chef and storyteller. For more stories and follow-ups to articles go to oliveavenuesupperclub.com.
Nona’s Sunday Gravy, North Providence, RI.
Serves 10
Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2-3 lbs of meat, beef or pork (I like either short ribs or pork chops)
• kosher salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 yellow or sweet onion, small size, finely diced
• 5 cloves of garlic, very thinly sliced (Watch Goodfellas, the movie)
• pinch of red chili flakes
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 28-ounce cans whole peeled tomatoes or crushed tomatoes (San Marzano, Buona Forchetta, Mona Lisa, or Assenti's)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon Italian parsley, finely minced
• pinch of sugar (taste the tomatoes for sweetness)
• 1 ½ lbs Italian sausage, hot or sweet (I like to use both)
• 10-15 meatballs (Asenti's or Mona Lisa)
Instructions:
• Heat olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Season the pork or beef on all sides with salt and pepper, then sear until nicely browned on all sides. Remove meat and set aside.
• Lower the heat, then add the onions to the pot and sauté until they are soft; do not allow them to brown.
• Add the garlic and chili flakes, then continue cooking for another 2 minutes.
• Stir in the tomato paste, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
• Add the tomatoes, bay leaves and parsley, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Add 3 cups of water to the pot, then stir to combine the ingredients. Bring the sauce to a boil, then add the meat — beef or pork,
sausage and meatballs — and reduce the heat to low. Simmer on the lowest possible heat setting, stirring about every 20 minutes to prevent the bottom from burning. Cook for about 3 hours, or until the meat is falling apart. Turn off the heat and allow the ts to sit in the sauce until ready to eat.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaves, then transfer the meat to a large platter.
Note: For a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender to purée the chunks of tomatoes.
Serving suggestion:
• 1-2 pounds of al dente pasta (tube shapes work well with this sauce)
• Serve with grated Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
How important is balance in our lives?
It is as critical as the balance in our universe between sunlight and darkness, heat and cold, gravity and cosmic push. Balance sustains; excess destroys.
October is such a great month in Coronado! Warm and beautiful, seasonal change is starting to occur, marking the beginning of a string of months of major celebrations and holidays. It is a great time to start thinking about balance and making sure we apply it in our daily lives so we don't burn out.
Balancing parties and fun with work and getting things done; balancing treating yourself and finding enjoyment with making healthy choices and nourishing yourself properly.
I am very social. I absolutely love to be around people! To me, the more the merrier. I feel I could have a party every day of the year, but that would throw a lot of things out of balance. With owning two businesses, being active in community clubs and being
a wife and doggy mom, there are a lot of responsibilities. It is so important for me to balance work and fun. Getting the work done and making sure to have time for my social outlets feeds my soul!
BALANCE IN BEAUTY
I believe in being yourself and living it up when it comes to style and beauty. But have you ever seen someone that has on so much makeup it just doesn't show them in their best light?
Makeup, too, is at its best when it finds balance. Knowing what to highlight and what to let breathe can make all the difference.
Maybe a bright and bold red lip, but then you go lighter on the eyes; or, you do smoky eyeshadow or dramatic winged eyeliner but then you go with a more natural, neutral lip color. Makeup can become art when it is paired with balance. We can really transform ourselves through makeup, but beauty shines best with balance. Too much foundation and the skin looks masked, even cakey sometimes. Too light of an application and features can disappear (especially if photos are being taken for weddings, parties, etc). Makeup should always enhance, and not overwhelm. Balance and intentional thought with your makeup will keep it polished, personal to your features, playful and pretty! If you would like to come in for a makeup consultation and learn how best to enhance your features without too much work, call Salon On First to schedule an appointment. We want you glowing — confidently and happily! Xo
For this month's Community Care Event, we are excited to welcome one of the hottest new businesses in town!
Island Integrative Health. They are a wellness-focused clinic offering deeply personalized care aimed at holistic, sustainable health. Co-founders Jennifer Peterson and Kellie Barry will be mingling with us over bubbles, sharing their health and longevity knowledge.
Join us October 22 from 6 - 7pm at Salon On First.
RSVP by email to save your spot! info@salononfirstcoronado.com
• Marilyn Klisser is the owner of Salon On First who lives in Coronado with her husband. Book an appointment online at salononfirstcoronado.com to look and feel your best.
don’t hear from
Fall is Here: Time for a Cozy Home Refresh!
By Jessica Nicolls + Karyn Molina
Fall is here, and that means it’s time to warm up your space with rich, inviting tones and comforting textures. As the days get shorter and the evenings cooler, your home can become a retreat from the outside world. Think burnt oranges, deep emerald greens and chocolate browns — gorgeous colors that instantly create a cozy, autumn-inspired atmosphere and pair beautifully with natural elements like wood and stone.
This is also the perfect season to introduce heavierweight textiles such as velvet, leather and plush materials like faux fur or bouclé throws. Even a few thoughtful swaps can completely transform a room, giving it that layered, lived-in feel we all crave during the colder months. It doesn’t take a full remodel to capture the essence of fall — a few intentional touches can bring warmth, depth and comfort into your everyday spaces.
Here are a few budgetfriendly ways to bring fall colors and textures into your home:
Throw Pillows & Blankets
Swap out light summer accents for cozy throws and pillows in autumn shades like burnt orange, emerald green and rich brown. Mixing textures is key — layer a velvet pillow with a chunky knit throw or add a boucle cushion to your sofa for instant dimension. These small updates are not only stylish but also functional as the temperatures drop.
Area Rugs
Ground your space with a rug that reflects the season. A deep-hued rug, a warm neutral with subtle patterns or even a plaid design can set the tone for the whole room. Rugs are one of the easiest ways to create a feeling of warmth underfoot and visually tie your seasonal palette together.
Wall Art
Rotate your artwork for the season by adding prints that highlight fall landscapes, botanical illustrations or abstract pieces in earthy tones. Artwork has the power to shift the mood of a room instantly, and it’s a creative way to celebrate the season without committing to permanent changes.
Candles
Scent is one of the most powerful ways to make your home feel cozy. This time of year calls for warm, spicy fragrances like pumpkin spice, cinnamon, clove or sandalwood. Display them in amber glass, green ceramic or matte black holders for that extra autumn touch. Not only will your home smell amazing but the soft glow of candlelight instantly creates a sense of intimacy and relaxation.
Extra Touches
Don’t forget the little details. Dried florals, branches in a ceramic vase or a wooden bowl filled with seasonal fruits like pomegranates and pears can make your home feel naturally connected to the season. Even swapping in darker-toned dinnerware or layering a plaid table runner can give everyday meals a festive, autumnal feel.
Need help creating the perfect fall refresh?
Our design team at Bungalow 56 is here to help you turn chaos into calm — with style.
∙ Jessica Nicolls and Karyn Molina are the owners of local interior design firm Bungalow 56 located at 1156 Orange Avenue, and bungalow56design.com.
Shop Local In Person… or Online!
Come explore our handpicked assortment of timeless furniture and decor. All items can be found at located at 1158 Orange Ave, Coronado or shop local online at bungalow56.com.
Coronado Floral Association Unveils the 2025–2026 Board of Directors
By CFA Co-President, Colby Erickson Freer
In Coronado, where bougainvillea tumble over fences, bushes of wild roses bring elegance, birds of paradise pop up their playful heads and hibiscus blooms frame front porches, flowers are more than decoration. They are a way of life. Each spring, the island’s streets transform into a living gallery during the Coronado Flower Show, a tradition that has endured for more than a century. From home fronts lined with roses to elaborate displays in Spreckels Park, the show is the community’s way of celebrating beauty in all its forms. The Coronado Flower Show is a tradition that has endured for more than a century, but what makes this event last is not just the blooms, it is the people behind them.
This summer, the Board got right to work, filling seats with some of the most creative and influential people in town. They’re neighbors, educators, mothers & fathers, entrepreneurs and visionaries who have raised their hands to carry Coronado’s longest-running tradition forward. For more than a century, the Flower Show has been woven into the island’s fabric. Now, this team is building something even more beautiful to carry us another 100 years.
At the heart of CFA’s mission has always been tradition, yet it is tradition made vibrant by new energy and ideas. The Board is leaning into the next generation of creating community within the Association.
That means more than just one spectacular April weekend. CFA has launched the Coronado Flower Club, powered by CFA, a fresh, year-round hub for members. From the newly launched monthly newsletter to real-time updates through the Heylo app, members can now RSVP, purchase tickets and discover collaborations with other beloved community groups in Coronado.
The vision is clear: education, engagement and a little extra fun. Expect botanical-themed events at local establishments, more educational programming for all ages and plenty of new ways to experience the joy of flowers between now and the 2026 show.
Meet the 2025–2026 Leadership Team
• Co-Presidents: Colby Erickson Freer & Kelly Kindorf
• Vice President: Stephanie McAlister
• Recording Secretary: Samantha O’Brien
• Treasurer: Chris Henderson
• Parliamentarian: Natalie Falletta
• Membership Chair: Shannon Canu
• Sponsorship Chair: Victoria Surdykowski
• Social Media Chair: Elle Morales
• Communications Chair: Sarah Kelly
Pop-Out Highlights
The Big Reveal
• Website Chair: Shelly Tinney-Miller
• 1922 Club Gala Co-Chairs: Chelsea Fox & Sam Harbaugh
• Home Front Judging Chair: Lori P. Smith
• Flower Show Chair: Karen Strabala
• Flower Show Programming Chair: Samantha Bowman Fleurov
• Hospitality Chair: Sara Stillman
• Facilities Chair: Faith Bravo
• Beyond the Tents Chair: Joi Catlin
• Friends & Flowers Chair: Christine Mott
The official 2026 Coronado Flower Show theme will be unveiled in the local November publications and across CFA’s new social media platforms. Limited-edition artwork and merchandise will follow, so stay tuned. Join the Flower Club
The new Coronado Flower Club is live. Membership perks now include the monthly newsletter, access to the Halo app for events and RSVPs and first looks at collaborations with other community groups. Save the Date
The 2026 Coronado Flower Show returns April 18–19, 2026.
A Community in Bloom
As always, CFA is a 100% volunteer-driven organization. The work of this new Board is a love letter to Coronado, a promise to keep nurturing beauty, tradition and civic pride. And while the legacy of the Flower Show is over a century old, the energy behind it feels brand new.
Tradition is our root system, but every year, new ideas are what keep us blooming.
For those who want to get involved, whether through membership, sponsorship or rolling up your sleeves behind the scenes, there is room for everyone in this garden.
Learn more and join the movement at coronadoflowershow.com.
• Colby Erickson Freer is a Coronado native who lives in the community with her family. With more than a decade of mortgage experience at Griffin Funding Inc, she also brings over ten years of involvement with the CFA, where she now serves her second term as President.
FARBOD FAMILY DENTAL
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1199 Orange Ave., Ste. A - Third Floor
October at the Coronado Public Library Brings Music, Lectures and Laughs
By Jacqueline Luna
As the days grow shorter, there’s no better time to curl up with a good book. Have you visited the library lately? With shelves brimming to match every fall mood, we have cozy reads and delightful programs that pair perfectly with October’s whimsical delights.
Literary Escapes
October brings bestselling author Clare Leslie Hall to the library (Oct. 8) to discuss her latest novel, Broken Country, a Reese’s Book Club pick. With over 20 weeks on the New York Times Best Sellers List, this twisty title has been sweeping the country. Now, its author will land at our library for an evening of conversation with Jason Blitman, celebrated podcaster and
theatre director. Already optioned by Hello Sunshine for the big screen, the book is full of simmering passion, impossible choices and explosive consequences. The novel toggles between the past and present to explore the far-reaching legacy of first love. A book signing will follow the event which is free and open to the public; limited reserved seating is available with purchase of a book through Warwick’s bookstore. Visit cplevents.org for more information.
Perhaps motivational titles are more to your liking? If so, don’t miss author Martha C. Lawrence as she shares her book Catch People Doing Things Right: How Ken Blanchard Changed the Way the World Leads (Oct. 23). Based on her time with the legendary speaker and business consultant, the title shares how Blanchard’s philosophies have shaped leadership and
Clare Leslie Hall
Martha C. Lawrence
management in companies worldwide. Blanchard’s books have long been a must read for anyone who works with people. Lawrence will be in conversation with local bestselling author and personal wellness expert, Ken Druck, and there might even be a special appearance by Blanchard himself! Copies of Lawrence’s book will be available for purchase thanks to Bay Books Coronado.
Musical Escapades
On strings and the black and white keys, our musical repertoire in October will span multiple genres. The month begins with two not-to-be-missed performances on the library’s stunning Steinway piano. Classical music lovers will want to hear pianist Lesi Mei as she plays works from Couperin, Liszt, Ravel and more on Oct. 3. The former first call pianist for the Beijing International
Orchestra, Mei performed worldwide before settling in San Diego. On Oct. 17, versatile pianist Phil Dannels will take the keys to dazzling heights. He has performed with San Diego Opera, Bodhi Tree Concerts and
Point Loma Opera Theatre and brings a background playing music from classical to jazz.
Lesi Mei
Robert Wetzel
Phil Dannels
The latter half of the month features two artists on strings. Award-winning cellist Sophie Webber will perform classical pieces with her own twist on Oct. 24. With honors including Sir John Barbirolli Memorial Prize, Indianapolis Matinee Musicale Graduate Strings Prize and Zumaia International Chamber Music Festival First and Public Prizes, she is also a creative arranger and composer known for her performances of Bach’s works. On Oct. 31, Robert Wetzel will perform Guitar Fantasy through the Centuries, incorporating a little festivity for the day’s holiday. He’s a longtime disciple of the Romero family, a founding member of the award-winning Odeum Guitar Duo, and an internationally recognized performer and teacher whose playing has been described by Fanfare Magazine as “truly magical.”
Limitless Finds
While you are at the library, make sure to explore the exhibits on display. Our main exhibit hallway celebrates the 10year anniversary of the Coronado Island Film Festival (CIFF). Started in 2016, this unique destination film festival has featured Oscar-nominated features, shorts and exclusive premieres. With images, ephemera and more, the exhibit is a tribute to the magic and wonder of the silver screen in Coronado.
Curated with the Coronado Art Colony, the Plein Air exhibition in the Spreckels Reading Room is not to be missed. With
pieces by local artists Mary Hale, Jim Nix, Katie Karosich, Connie Spitzer, Jody Esquer, Doris Rice, Joan Nie, Matt DeGree, Nathan McCall and Tina Christiansen, it’s a celebration of Coronado’s outdoor beauty.
And we haven’t forgotten — it’s spooky season! Check out our spooky (but not too spooky) diorama in the kids area. Make sure to mark your calendars on Oct. 24 for a special after-hours Spooky Scavenger Hunt for kids!
Whether you’re looking for something to do, something to read or something to see, the library is the place to check out! We’re open seven days a week, and our online resources are always available no matter where in the world you are. Stop in and say hello today!
Sophie Webber
Book Clubs!
Check out the library’s book club lineup for October:
Mystery Book Club.
Meets Monday, October 20 at 2pm in the Winn Room to discuss Riddle of the Sands by Erskine Childers. This club meets regularly on the third Monday of each month.
Best of the Best Book Club.
Meets Wednesday, October 22 at 11am in the Winn Room to discuss They Called Us Enemy by George Takei. The Best of the Best meets regularly on the fourth Wednesday of each month to discuss books that have won major awards. They Called Us Enemy won the 2020 Eisner Award.
Spoilers Book Club.
Meets Saturday, October 18, at 2pm in the Winn Room to view the film Bless Me, Ultima based on the book by Rudolfo Anaya. Spoilers Book Club participants read the book on their own and then gather to view the movie version at their meeting. They then compare and contrast the book and film. The following month’s book is announced at the meeting.
coronadolibrary.org
• Jacqueline Luna is the senior librarian for programs, outreach and marketing at the Coronado Public Library. Born and raised in Coronado, when not at the library, she can be found adventuring around the county with her husband and daughter (often with a book in her purse for emergencies). For more information about Coronado Public Library events and services offered, visit the library’s website, coronadolibrary.org.
Reiki
TO THE
Rescue
by Gina Benedetto
WHEN SADIE STEPPED OUT of the dunes, I knew something was wrong. 11 pounds of pure energy, this black and white terrier mix was in the middle of one of her favorite activities — running up and down the beaches at Fiesta Island to frolic in the water and sand, as she had done every weekend since my husband and I had adopted her. This time though, she approached with an obvious limp, tailed tucked under. Her ACL was torn, and she was going to be going through a long process of healing. Her adventurous ways would have to be temporarily curtailed so that she could (hopefully) walk and run and play again.
What followed were multiple vet visits, an eventual knee surgery and a monthslong recovery where a dog who was used to hour-plus long walks three times a day was confined to a small pen. Instead of chasing tennis balls and running up and down bluffs, she had to be carried out to the yard to pee and brought back in immediately after. Her life became small, and my heart broke for her. My husband and I had done all that we could: we could take her to the vet, give her the healthiest food and spend all day with her — thank you remote work. But what more could I do for her? What else could I offer her to help her heal?
I am blessed by a large and loving family, including my Uncle Henry and Aunt Mary, deeply spiritual people possessing an infectious joy in teaching. Of the many practices I learned from them, I was immediately captivated by the practice of Reiki. A traditional healing practice originating in Japan, Reiki involves placing the recipient into a
parasympathetic state, or the rest and digest state of the body. In that state, the recipient’s body can enter a state of deep rest and healing. The practitioner’s job is to channel “life force energy” (also known as ki, chi or prana) so it may gently flow into the parts of the body (physical and energetic) that need it the most. As that happens, tension and stress are relieved, and on a deep level, healing can be bolstered and facilitated.
What I have found in my Reiki practice is that the energy goes where it needs to go in both animals and humans. Even if the issue is unknown to me or you, the healing will occur at the level and intensity that the animal is open to receive. In people, I’ve seen spontaneous physical and emotional sensations and reactions, and in animals, amazing and beautiful shifts in demeanor and interaction.
As the weeks progressed, I began to apply what I had learned in my practice to Sadie. I could still see her discomfort, her tiny face showing just a hint of the pain and stress she was experiencing (she wouldn’t want to make a big deal of it, of course). I would state my intention and then begin the session with her, my hands passing over her and the vital energy I had learned to feel flowing through and over her. Soon her expression would soften, and she breathed a deep, soulful sigh, which I had learned is called a “reiki sigh” — the sign that someone has entered a truly deep place of calm and relaxation. After many such occasions, on the nights that I didn’t plan on giving her a Reiki session she began to stare at me expectantly at the usual Reiki time until I acquiesced. Satisfied, she curled up as I started a session anew.
Sadie grew stronger, her old spark returning little by little each day. As she healed, I daydreamed. What if I could provide this space, this healing practice, to the animals that mean so much to us?
Despite not speaking our language, our animals communicate with us constantly. Unfortunately, we don’t speak their language either, and often their needs and wants can go unheard. Like us, animals suffer the same ailments of both body and mind. And much like us, the same relaxing and healing techniques that work on humans — massage, acupuncture, reiki and so on — also work on them.
With Sadie’s patience and receptiveness, I began my studies anew, learning to feel the gentle but powerful flow of energy, and witness the effects that it had on her and other animals (and their human companions) that I have worked with. During her healing process, I became a certified Reiki practitioner, and Sadie’s journey has inspired me to start my official practice — All Souls Reiki — where I hope to help the animals in our lives experience greater wellness and vitality.
Months later, when her doctor-prescribed rest period was over, we returned to the beach. She took off like a bullet, chasing a scent on the wind, disappearing over the bluffs once more. My heart skipped a beat, but she soon emerged, bounding effortlessly, pure joy on her face. There is so much in this universe that we can’t see, but know and feel to be real. Thanks to Sadie, I’ve learned the joy in sharing this healing practice, and I can never thank her enough.
I hope to help the animals in our lives experience greater wellness & vitality.
Gina Benedetto is an animal lover and certified Reiki practitioner located in San Diego. To learn more about Reiki and her practice, visit AllSoulsReiki.com.
All Peoples Church Coronado
1331 Orange Ave. (Golf Cart Rental)
Email: info@allpeoplescoronado.com
Website: allpeoplescoronado.com
Chabad of Coronado
1300 Orange Ave., Suite 120-130 • (619) 365-4728
Email: info@chabadcoronado.com
Website: chabadcoronado.com
Christ Episcopal Church
1114 9th St. (at C Avenue) • (619) 435-4561
Email: office@christchurchcoronado.org
Website: christchurchcoronado.org
Coronado Community Church
201 6th St. • (619) 437-6827
Email: pastoreric@coronadocommunitychurch.org
Website: coronadocommunitychurch.org
Coronado Southern Baptist Church
111 Orange Ave., • (619) 435-8682
Email: john@coronadosbc.com
Website: coronadosbc.com
First Baptist Church of Coronado
445 C Ave. • (619) 435-6588
Email: secretary@fbcoronado.com
Website: fbcoronado.com
First Church of Christ, Scientist 1123 8th St. • (619) 435-4383
Website: prayerthatheals.org
Graham Memorial Presbyterian Church
979 C Ave. • (619) 435-6860
Website: gmpc.org
Living Waters Christian Church
Calvary Chapel Coronado 1224 10th St. #103 • (619) 435-8233
Email: cccoronadolwf@gmail.com
Website: calvarychapelcoronado.com
Resurrection Lutheran Church
1111 5th St. • (619) 435-1000
Email: secretary@resurrectioncoronado.com
Website: resurrectioncoronado.com
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
655 C Avenue • (619) 435-3167
Email: sacredheart@sacredheartcor.org
Website: sacredheartcor.org
St. Paul’s United Methodist Church
700 D Ave. • (619) 435-5691
Email: stpauls.coronadoumc@gmail.com
Website: stpaulsmethodist.com
Victory Lighthouse United Pentecostal Church
111 Orange Avenue • (858) 499-9312
Website: victorylighthouse.weebly.com
Coronado Beach sunset captured by Liberty Schuller @schullerliberty.
ALBACA
Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa
2000 Second St. (619) 435-3000
Amalo Brew Coffee Coronado Library
Calypso Cafe 505 Grand Caribe Causeway (619) 423-5144
Central Liquor & Deli 178 Orange Ave. (619) 435-0118
Coronado Coffee Company
Ferry Landing 1201 1st St. (619) 522-0217
Cocina 35
Feast & Fareway
2000 Visalia Row (619) 996-3322
Garage Buona Forchetta 1000 C Ave. (619) 675-0079
Little Frenchie 1166 Orange Ave. (619) 675-0041
Nicky Rotten’s Bar & Burger Joint
100 Orange Ave. (619) 675-0094
Lobster West 1033 B Ave. #102 (619) 675-0002
640 Orange Ave. (619) 537-9011
Avenue Liquor Wine & Subs 878 Orange Ave. (619) 435-4663
Babcock & Story Bar Hotel del Coronado 1500 Orange Ave. (619) 435-6611
Chez Loma 1132 Loma Ave. (619) 435-0661
Chipotle Mexican Grill
1360 Orange Ave. (619) 365-4287
Clayton’s Bakery and Bistro 849 Orange Ave. (619) 319-5001
Ferry Landing 1201 First St. (619) 794-2041
Night & Day Cafe 847 Orange Ave. (619) 435-9776
ACTION REQUIRED!
Crown Bistro
Crown City Inn
520 Orange Ave. (619) 435-3678
Crown Landing
Gelato Paradiso 918 Orange Ave. (619) 629-5343
High Tide Bottle Shop & Kitchen 933 Orange Ave. (619) 435-1380
L'Orangerie 1100 Orange Ave. (619) 571-3367
McP's Irish Pub 1107 Orange Ave. (619) 435-5280
Panera 980 Orange Ave. (619) 437-4288
Parakeet Cafe 1134 Orange Ave. (619) 675-0104
Bluewater Boathouse Seafood Grill 1701 Strand Way (619) 435-0155
publication January,
Clayton’s Coffee Shop 979 Orange Ave. (619) 435-5425
Boney’s Bayside Market
155 Orange Ave. (619) 435-0776
The Brigantine 1333 Orange Ave. (619) 435-4166
Burger King
Clayton’s Mexican Takeout 1107 10th St. (619) 437-8811
Loews Coronado Bay Resort 4000 Coronado Bay Road (619) 424-4000
Crown Room
Hotel del Coronado
1500 Orange Ave. (619) 522-8490
Danny’s Palm Bar & Grill
Il Fornaio 1333 1st St. (619) 437-4911
Island Pasta 1202 Orange Ave. (619) 435-4545
Jolie Coronado
126 Orange Ave. (619) 704-2467
KFC/Taco Bell 100 B Ave. (619) 435-2055
Miguel’s Cocina 1351 Orange Ave. (619) 437-4237
I Ad proof No. 1 proofread this ad carefully. Check all names, addresses, phone numbers, and expiration dates. Please respond within two business days. we don’t hear from you, we will consider all information to be correct and will print the ad AS IS. confirm or correct, please contact your ad representative: heather@crowncitypublishing.com alex@crowncitypublishing.com natalie@crowncitypublishing.com
Ferry Landing 1201 1st St. (619) 435-8707
Burger Lounge 922 Orange Ave. (619) 435-6835
Cold Stone Creamery Ferry Landing 1201 1st St. (619) 437-6919
Coronado Brewing Co.
170 Orange Ave. (619) 437-4452
965 Orange Ave. (619) 435-3171
Domino’s 1330 Orange Ave. (619) 437-4241
Eno Pizza
Hotel del Coronado 1500 Orange Ave. (619) 522-8546
Lil’ Piggy’s Bar-B-Q Ferry Landing 1201 1st St. (619) 522-0217
Little Club 132 Orange Ave. (619) 435-5885
Mindful Cafe Sharp Coronado Hospital 250 Prospect Ave. (619) 522-3600
Mootime Creamery 1025 Orange Ave. (619) 435-2422
Nado Gelato Cafe 1017 C Ave. (619) 522-9053
Nado Republic 1007 C Ave. (619) 996-3271
Parakeet Juicery East 943 Orange Ave. (619) 319-5931
Parakeet Juicery West 1138 Orange Ave. (619) 537-0018
Park Place Liquor & Deli 1000 Park Place (619) 435-0116
Peohe’s Ferry Landing 1201 1st St. (619) 437-4474
Poke123 1009 Orange Ave. (619) 823-6126
Rosemary Trattoria 120 Orange Ave. (619) 537-0054
Saiko Sushi 116 Orange Ave. (619) 435-0868
Serea Coastal Cuisine Hotel del Coronado 1500 Orange Ave. (619) 435-6611
Spiro’s Greek Cafe Ferry Landing 1201 1st St. (619) 435-1225
Tartine 1106 1st St. (619) 435-4323
Tavern 1310 Orange Ave. (619) 437-0611
The Henry 1031 Orange Ave. (619) 762-1022
(619)435-6611
Starbucks 960 Orange Ave. (619) 437-8306
Trident Coffee 942 Orange Ave. (619) 509-7118
publication February 2022 I Ad proof No. 1
Stake Chophouse & Bar
Which Wich 926 Orange Ave. (619) 522-9424
Villa Nueva Bakery Café 956 Orange Ave. (619) 435-1256
proofread this ad carefully. Check all names, addresses, phone numbers, and expiration dates. Please respond within two business days. we don’t hear from you, we will consider all information to be correct and will print the ad AS IS.
1309 Orange Ave. (619) 522-0077
Subway 1330 Orange Ave. (619) 435-8272
Village Pizzeria 1206 Orange Ave. (619) 522-0449
Swaddee Thai 1001 C Ave. (619) 435-8110
Yummy Sushi 1330 Orange Ave. (619) 435-2771
CATERING
Clyde Van Arsdall (619) 884-7928
Village Pizzeria Bayside Ferry Landing 1201 1st St. (619) 437-0650
Please proofread this ad carefully. Check all names, addresses, phone prices and expiration dates. Please respond within two business If we don’t hear from you, we will consider all information to
confirm or correct, please contact your ad representative: heather@crowncitypublishing.com alex@crowncitypublishing.com natalie@crowncitypublishing.com
Chef Drew McPartlin (619) 990-9201
Coronado Caterer (619) 917-3392
Scratch Gourmet (619) 987-4912
To confirm or correct, please contact your ad representative:
Business District - Shop, Dine & Fun!
(Also see Local Buzz on page 12) Public Restrooms
Pedestrian, Bike and Bus Routes
Pedestrian Routes
Pedestrian & Bike Routes
Bike Routes
Bus Routes
It is not recommended to cross at these intersections.
In an emergency, dial 9-1-1
Sharp Coronado Hospital (619) 522-3600
Police Department (619) 522-7350
Fire Department (619) 522-7374
Lifeguard Station (619) 522-7346
Coronado Ferry Schedule
Pier
The Ferry departs the Broadway Pier hourly, from 9am to 9pm (10pm on Friday & Saturday nights)
The Ferry departs Coronado hourly, from 9:30am to 9:30pm
The Convention Center (South Embarcadero)
The Ferry departs from the Convention Center at :25 & :55 past the hour, from 9:25am to 9:55pm (10:55pm on Friday & Saturday nights)
The Ferry departs Coronado at :10 and :40 past the hour from 9:10am to 9:40pm (10:40pm on Friday & Saturday nights)
Ferry operated by Flagship Cruises & Events (619) 234-4111
For more information, visit their website, flagshipsd.com/cruises/flagship-ferry
“Darkness
comes slowly and there is a place, but you are the light there.” —UNKNOWN