Over the last few months, Oceanside has seen a dramatic increase in restaurants closing. This one just hit us harder. Petite Madeline Bakery has been a fixture on Coast Highway since 2011. Owned and operated by Christine Loyola and her daughter Rachael Moreno, Petite Madeline always felt like coming home. The cozy cafe was hugely popular with both the locals and tourists serving amazing pastries and breakfasts by their friendly staff.
Sunday, March 15, was the last day of business for the Petite Madeline with loyal customers lining out into the street to get one last pastry before they're gone for good. It saddens us to see this family-owned business close after such a great run in Oside. But it's time for the Loyola family to move on after dedicating their lives for so long to those grueling early morning baker's hours.
The Osider would like to thank Christine and Rachel for creating such a wonderful place in our community. You'll truly be missed by all! A new coffee shop and bakery, Kettle on Coast, has already taken their place, but we will always remember Petite Madeline's legacy for uplifting downtown Oceanside one cinnamon roll at a time.
Rachael Moreno
SET IN STONE
A word from the publisher
Spring has officially sprung and summertime is right around the corner.
The sweet feeling of the bright sun on our faces, longer days to enjoy friends and family at our local parks and beaches—it’s all music to our ears. There is no better place to be this time of year, so please feel free to take full advantage of our pristine coastline. After all, the name of our city is Oceanside!
We have everything from perfectly picturesque sunsets, delicious locally caught and grown food, outstanding craft brew and custom cocktails on offer, and we love it. There is no doubt that our beloved city is the place to be.
With that stated, please remember to respect the beaches and parks and leave them cleaner than you receive them. Be patient with the tourists and make them feel welcome during their visit, and, on the other end, tourists please respect the locals. After all, we are sharing our home court with you. When respect is given it is always returned tenfold.
So, let the BBQ’s, pick up games, and beach days commence because we all know that summertime in Oceanside is the place to be. See you at the beach.
Jamey Stone Publisher
PUBLISHER
Jamey Stone /Publisher/Co-Founder bucclife@gmail.com
Katia Brunson, Alondra Figueroa, Katie LaLicata, Eric Lopez, Kristi Hawthorne, Joel Muzzey, Justin Moodie, Elizabeth Schwartze
SPECIAL THANKS
Oceanside Historical Society, Tim Wrisley, Amber Lussier, Abijah Hensley, Bruce The Trenchcoat Guy, The Carter Family, The Woodrell Family, The Becker Family, Ron Goodin, Bailey Stone, Braden Stone, Judy Endorf, The Hoffer Family, Steve and Linda Josepho, Jean Josepho, Oceanside Museum of Art, and all of our advertisers Facebook.com/TheOsiderMagazine @theosidermag
The Osider Magazine 3124 San Luis Rey Road Oceanside, CA 92058
Oceanside's Finest Tyler Berry
WORDS: ELIZABETH SCHWARTZE PHOTO: ZACH CORDNER
As Summer 2026 approaches , Oceanside’s beaches will be populated by residents and visitors. It’s imperative to have the best staffed beaches to ensure the safety and well-being for the estimated four million beachgoers.
Fortunately, Oceanside’s Finest is Lifeguard Captain, Tyler Berry. He knows the 3.7 miles of beaches both personally, and professionally since he was raised here and has dedicated his career to safeguarding Oceanside beaches. 2026 is his twenty-fourth summer as an
Oceanside Lifeguard. Captain Berry embodies the Oceanside Fire Department Lifeguard Division Motto, “Embracing Families and Safeguarding Communities.” To build on the family and community in his role, Captain Berry unites with, “The theme I have been presenting to my staff and colleagues is that we are One Division, One Department, and One Oceanside.” Uniting Oceanside is the definition of Oceanside’s Finest.
Captain Berry was born at Scripps La Jolla and attended Tri-City Christian his entire
educational career. After graduating from TriCity, he went on to receive a Bachelor’s in Public Administration from Northern Arizona University (NAU). He is currently completing his Master’s in Organizational Leadership through NAU.
He began his career with the City of Oceanside in 2002 as a seasonal lifeguard. In 2008, he was hired full-time as a lifeguard sergeant. It was also 2008 when the Great Recession occurred and shaped Captain Berry’s outlook on the necessity of creating sustainable
systems for the future. In February 2025, the City of Oceanside proudly announced Captain Tyler Berry would take command as lifeguard captain after the retirement of highly-regarded Captain Bill Curtis.
Captain Berry has worked tirelessly to ensure the program's success since his hire. “I have received valuable mentorship from leaders past and present in my time with the City of Oceanside,” he said. “I am very excited to build upon a solid foundation of great relationships
and 100 years of Oceanside Lifeguards in 2026.”
Captain Berry lives in Oceanside with his wife, Emily, and two children, Clark (10) and Shawna (7). Clark has already started his legacy in Oceanside Junior Guards (JG’s).
In 2009, the Oceanside Lifeguards became a division of the Oceanside Fire Department. Fire Chief Parsons manages the Oceanside Lifeguards, but has put full trust in Berry to oversee lifeguard operations.
“Tyler has proven through words and deeds
how much he cares about this community and the wellbeing of beachgoers,” Parsons said. “We saw the makings of a leader who will live the highest ideals of service and we’ve been proven correct. He has my deepest respect as a leader and human being. He has taken over as the Lifeguard Division Manager at an important time of growth and need and is a critical member of the Oceanside Fire Department leadership team.”
Captain Berry currently oversees 85 seasonal staff and eighteen full-time lifeguards. Since the beach never closes, neither does their obligation to round-the-clock safety. In 2025, Oceanside lifeguards serviced a total of 96,452 incidents!
A 24-hour Marine Safety Unit (MSU) was added in 2023 with a lifeguard and firefighter paramedic on duty at all times. MSU is crucial in aiding emergencies, especially those that occur after hours. MSU answered 524 calls in 2025. Another program that Captain Berry oversees is the renowned Oceanside Junior Lifeguards. Each summer for a total of eight weeks, Oceanside JG’s takes over Harbor Beach with over 800 JG’s ages nine to sixteen. It’s an amazing opportunity for young beach users to learn about ocean safety and awareness and build connections in the community.
The JG program has flourished under direct supervision from Captain Berry, including adding a new Locals Summer JG program in 2025. Registration for JG’s fills up in minutes, and Captain Berry has set a future goal to not turn any child away that could benefit from the program. Upcoming, the Oceanside Lifeguard Division will celebrate 100 years of service (1926-2026). It’s an exciting time for Oceanside lifeguards.
Captain Berry took over a division of Oceanside that is the heartbeat of the city. His leadership has charted a path of success in a very short time.
“My goal in this position is to develop a sustainable system for lifeguarding and marine safety in Oceanside that will last the next 100 years. We will accomplish this by embracing technology, data-driven decision-making and adjustments, continuous learning, and transparent accountability. We will strive to exceed the industry best practices that we have an active role in establishing for this profession and Southern California.”
Since Oceanside has been, and always will be, home for Captain Berry, it’s an honor to know that our beaches are safeguarded by an experienced leader.
“I really believe that we have the most dynamic piece of the Pacific Ocean. I love it here and wouldn’t want to work or live anywhere else.”
As Oceanside's Finest, the role of unity that Captain Berry embodies is embraced by all Osiders. We are one Oceanside. Our beaches are our heartbeat, and Oceanside is grateful for Captain Berry’s current and continued service. Thank you, Captain Berry, for being Oceanside’s Finest.
Our Guide To a Sustainable Summer (And Year)
In Oceanside
Every year in the U.S., an estimated 561 billion disposable food service items are used, creating about 4.9 million tons of waste, according to upstreamsolutions.org. The numbers are big, but the actions you can take to make a real difference are simple.
By choosing small, sustainable habits during your summer adventures (and all year long), you help keep Oceanside’s beaches clean and beautiful for generations to come.
Use the tips below to enjoy a more sustainable summer and simply #SkipTheStuff!
BRING YOUR OWN BAG
Make reusables your go-to. Pack a sturdy reusable bag for grocery runs, farmers market visits, or beach days. This supports the City’s Marine Debris Reduction Ordinance, which prohibits businesses from distributing single-use carryout bags.
SIP SUSTAINABLY
Choose a refillable water bottle instead of singleuse plastic bottles. It’s better for the planet—and perfect for your entire vacation and beyond.
SNACK SMARTER
Swap single-use plastics for reusable containers and bags. They’re convenient, stylish, and help drastically reduce everyday waste.
REDUCE WHAT YOU BRING
Pack with intention. Bring only what you need for a great day out, no need to haul everything “including the kitchen sink.”
LEAVE NO TRACE
Whether you're exploring the beach, parks, or neighborhoods, remember to pack out everything you brought in. Taking home trash, used and broken items for disposal helps keep Oceanside clean and debris free! Wherever you go, help keep Oceanside clean!
Marine Debris Reduction Ordinance: Why It’s Important
The use of disposable food service ware and single-use plastic bags contributes to a range of environmental issues, like greenhouse gas emissions and excessive litter/marine pollution. These items are frequently found as marine debris, polluting Oceanside’s beaches and waterways.
The 2020 Zero Waste Plan identified the reduction of litter and marine debris as a community priority. This ordinance supports those goals by promoting sustainability, protecting natural resources, and encouraging long-term environmental stewardship.
A Cleaner Future for Oceanside
The City of Oceanside’s Marine Debris Reduction Ordinance is in full effect. The distribution of polystyrene foam products and single-use carry out bags are prohibited throughout the City of Oceanside. This ordinance applies to all retail establishments and food service providers in Oceanside, requiring them to transition to sustainable alternatives.
Businesses must also charge a minimum of ten cents for any reusable or recyclable carryout bag provided to customers. The City offers downloadable outreach materials on its Marine Debris Reduction Ordinance’s webpage.
To report a non-compliant business, contact Oceanside Customer Care at (760) 435-4500 or customercare@oceanisdeca.org.
Arts & Culture
Upcoming creative and cultural events happening in Downtown Oceanside
Oceanside Art Walk | May 1 & June 5 | 5-9pm
Experience a colorful showcase of art, jewelry, and crafts by talented artists, accompanied by live music throughout the evening. Located in the Civic Center Plaza and Library Courtyard, 300 North Coast Highway, and Artist Alley.
Free Community Concerts in the Park: Levitt BLOC Oceanside Music Series Visit oceansidemusicseries.com for more information. See upcoming concerts:
Kogee Soul Reprise & The David Spitzfaden Trio | May 2, 3:30-6:30pm at Joe Balderrama Park
Sabrosas Latin Orchestra & The Israel Maldonado Trio | May 9, 3:30-6:30pm at Joe Balderrama Park
Oceanside Speaks! A Pop-up Writing Workshop Series | May 7 | 5-7pm
Participate in a writing workshop led by nationally recognized spoken word poet Chrissy Croft. The workshop will feature a performance by Chrissy Croft and members of Glassless Minds, a guided poetry-writing workshop, snacks and refreshments, and prize giveaways. Please RSVP at glasslessminds@gmail.com. Located at the North County LGBTQ Resource Center.
Secret Garden: A Baby Prom Resource Fair
May 8 | 10am-12pm
Families are invited to the third annual baby prom resource fair. Enjoy bilingual story times, crafts, prize drawings, face painting, and meet community partners to learn about the resources they provide. Located at John Landes Community Center Library.
Craftchella | May 9 | 10am-3pm
Take part in a full day of crafts for adults, including bouquet making, zines, pom pom charms, and an art supply swap. Located in the Civic Center Library Community Room.
Mālama Pono | May 9-10
Mālama Pono is a reminder that to care well for ourselves, our kaiaulu (community), and our environment is both a responsibility and a great privilege. Join local cultural organization Umeke in honoring that commitment with a weekend full of culture, community, and celebration. See flyer for more details.
Wind-up Vinyl Hour | May 11 | 5-6pm
Spend an afternoon with music and bring a record that matches this month's theme, “May Gray”. A record player will be available, so you can play your favorite songs and enjoy the company of other music lovers. Located in the Civic Center Library Courtyard.
World Rhythm & Dance Festival | May 16 | 10am-5pm
Celebrate world culture with music, community dance workshops, performances, and an artisans and wellness vendor market at the 2nd annual World Rhythm & Dance Festival. Located in the Civic Center Plaza and Library Courtyard, 300 North Coast Highway.
Open Mic Night at Oceanside Alternative Medicine | May 16 | 6:30pm
An evening of celebrating local creativity and building community—Open Mic Night is a performance opportunity for artists of all ages and backgrounds in Oceanside and surrounding areas. Located at Oceanside Alternative Medicine, 401 N Coast Highway.
Dear Tomorrow, Art Brunch & Market May 24 | 9am
Grab a signature latte from Color Magic, a stack of pancakes, and shop from the large community of local artisans and vintage buyers. Located at 216 S Tremont. Visit www.deartmrw.com for more information.
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee May 29-June 14
Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, the 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee takes us on a journey with an eclectic group of six mid-pubescents as they participate in the spelling championship of a lifetime. Tickets and info at oceansidetheatre.org. Located at the Sunshine Brooks Theatre.
Dear Tomorrow, Expand your Palate, Coffee Cupping Workshop | May 30 | 10am
Join Dear Tomorrow, resident coffee roaster, Color Magic for a guided coffee tasting. You’ll explore coffees from around the world through the same method used by roasters and producers at origin to evaluate quality and flavor. Located at 216 S Tremont. Visit www.deartmrw.com for more information.
Resonance: A Collaborative Community Experience | June 4 | 6-8pm
A vibrant community art night for all ages and all abilities where music, art, poetry, and spontaneous creativity come alive. Located in the Civic Center Library Courtyard.
Oceanside Theatre Company Youth Academy | June 15-July 10
Oceanside Theater Company Youth Academy offers three distinct camps for performers (ages 5-19), theatre design, and theatre tech culminating in a full-scale Broadway-style musical theatre youth production for family, friends, and the general public. Visit oceansidetheatre.org for more information and registration.
The Oceanside California Cultural Arts District is one of twenty-four state-designated districts appointed by the California Arts Council and is brimming with arts & culture programs, venues, public art, and murals. Follow us on Instagram! @oceansideculturaldistrict
True Nature Yoga Collective
WORDS: KATIE LALICATA
PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER
Vintage vibes are back. No empty promises or cheap marketing schemes here. Just real yoga. No mirrors, no fluff. No burden of memberships or fancy subscriptions or confusing software that doesn’t let you log in. Literally just yoga.
Stripped down to the magic of the practice itself shared through the roots of the traditional lineages. Yoga being offered here is inclusive for everyone. Danielle Fowler, Owner of True Nature Yoga Collective, has been living in Oceanside and sharing this practice with the Oside community for over 25 years.
Having previously owned two studios, having a masters degree in yoga studies, having studied yoga across the planet from the foothills of India to the Himalayan Institute here in the states, Danielle is bringing Yoga back to basics.
Since day one her whole goal as a yoga teacher is to teach people peace. If there’s a resounding message to be conveyed here from Danielle herself, this sacred studio space, and the hand selected teachers on the schedule, it’s this: peace is available and attainable and it’s found in self. True Nature Yoga Collective is offering a pipeline to this peace through the yoga being taught within these four walls.
Haven’t heard of this studio yet? Well, the studio itself is new. They just opened their doors in January 2026. Perched unassumingly in the hills of Fire Mountain, it’s away from the hustle and bustle of the busy downtown O and South O areas.
Parking is ample, and peace here doesn’t require an expensive membership. As a Yogini, a scholar and practitioner of yoga, a small business owner, a local, and a woman who has lived a life of service to others, this offering, the TNYC business model, is the one that feels most authentic to Danielle.
She shared that this particular business model “feels the most in alignment with the core values of yoga.” What drives the beauty of this space and what sets this studio apart from so many others is the collective, co-op model embodied here. From weekly classes, to carefully curated workshops, to Friday night candle light yoga, community and teacher to student connection comes first.
Classes are offered at a $20 drop in rate. No pre registration required. Why? Because Danielle believes “an advanced software system doesn’t make good yoga, in fact it has nothing to do with yoga.”
Danielle’s passion towards simplicity, authenticity, and alignment to the traditional yoga
teachings runs deep. She honors yoga not as a practice of the physical body, but yoga as a practice of peace. And what’s more peaceful than just showing up in this wild world of complicated tech everything?! Really not much.
Every class and teacher here offer an intimate, curated, and quality experience. It’s quality over quantity kind of energy. Beyond the $20 drop in rate, the teachers here are thrilled to offer what they are calling the Saturday Shift. It’s an $11 Saturday Morning (9am) community class boasting not just one teacher but all the teachers in this space on a rotation. There’s a special brand of empowerment being offered here, it’s called yoga—and how beautiful is that? Come try it out and enjoy “the shift.”
Owner, Danielle Fowler
• New Oceanside homes steps from the beach and Michelin starred dining!
• Spacious & sophisticated floor plans with modern features and designer finishes
• Complete indoor & outdoor amenity experience including a rooftop lounge
• The authentic beach town life you’ve been dreaming about
• The most affordable beach community in SoCal
• Single-level living with elevator access
JUNE
Historical Oceanside
Playground North of the pier, 1958.
Guardians of the Shore: Lifeguards in the 1970s
As the Oceanside Lifeguards prepare to celebrate 100 years, images from 1972 capture the look and feel of the 1970s in Oceanside.
These photos were taken and/or compiled by Lifeguard Kevin Cloney, who also served as a junior lifeguard instructor for both beach and pool lifeguarding. They were discovered by Mark Germundson with the Oceanside Parks and Recreation Department and shared with the Oceanside Historical Society.
The summer of 1972 started with the rebellious song “School’s Out for Summer” by Alice Cooper. This iconic anthem rang out as students all over Oceanside hit the beaches from the harbor, to the pier, to Buccaneer and Cassidy Street. As the crowds began to swell with locals and tourists, lifeguards knew that summer had really begun.
With thousands of school children being set free, tourists arriving from the Midwest and the visitors driving in from the inland valleys, lifeguards had to be prepared for anything. Even while they scanned the beach and waves, they dealt (and still do) with lost children, lost items, lost beach chairs and flip flops, to questions about water temps, and jellyfish stings.
1972 was a year of fun and hope. Disco would soon dominate the airwaves and bell bottom jeans were in Vogue. The Vietnam War would come to an end one year later, but the country would face a gas shortage. The Mayor of Oceanside was Paul Graham, who was dealing with a changing and ever-growing city. In 1972 the large Kmart store on Mission Avenue was under construction, while areas of the San Luis Rey Valley were still full of orange groves. The shopping center at El
WORDS: KRISTI HAWTHORNE
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE OCEANSIDE HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Historical Oceanside
Camino Real and Highway 78 (present day Target) was just set to be built. Oceanside High School East opened that year, now known as El Camino. Even then, beach erosion was of great concern. The pier was closed temporarily in ‘72 because of damage when strong winds loosened pilings. In spite of this Oceanside lifeguards would be busier than ever.
At the time, lifeguards were under the direction of Oceanside’s Parks and Recreation Department. Lifeguards ranged in age from eighteen to 30 years old and, for the majority of them, it was the perfect job to fill in the summer between high school or college classes. Only the lifeguard captain held a year-round job.
These young men and women were expected
to guard lives while being ambassadors and representing the best of Oceanside. Ray Duncan, the Aquatics Director for the City, commented in a 1976 interview: “One big job the lifeguards have is public relations. We have 1 million or more people coming to Oceanside every year who use the beach. For many of them, the lifeguard and their motel manager are the only contacts they have in the city, so the guard’s attitude is very important.”
The holidays always bring crowds to the beaches and the Fourth of July in 1972 was no exception. In 1972 Duncan reported that it was “the biggest attendance of any in the history of Oceanside.” He also reported that despite the record crowds, there were just three rescues, three first aids, and five lost children in Oceanside. “None of the rescues were major ones, and the most serious first aid was a beachgoer stung by a stingray.”
While an “average” beach day could be packed with twelve to 15,000 people, holidays could easily double or triple the body count. “We had between 25,000 and 30,000 on the beach during the day, and about 35,000 on the beach to watch the fireworks,” he said.
The full staff of lifeguards on duty were led by Mike Shipley. “Everything just went real smooth, with good surf and good weather,” Duncan said.
A large sign providing mostly “No’s” was posted on the beach: No dogs, no vehicles and no fires (except in fire rings.), No surfing was allowed from 11 AM to 5 PM from June 15 to September 15 except in designated areas. Beachgoers were encouraged to call the lifeguards with questions (722-8000), and swimmers were to swim only in areas guarded by lifeguards.
Junior Lifeguards had their training at the Oceanside Harbor, consisting of swim tests, paddling oars on small boats or canoes, and demonstrations of all kinds including mouth-tomouth resuscitation. Life-saving equipment and supplies appeared to be basic, including fins and a flotation device. A first aid kit included BandAids, gauze pads, and Bactine.
Lifeguard towers changed over the years but one piece of equipment put into use for decades was a 1952 Bell Lab Western Electric 507b switchboard. Blake Faumuina, Beach Lifeguard Lieutenant, said that this vintage switchboard was used for lifeguard tower phones in dispatch, and it was kept in service all the way up to 2021.
He also remarked that it was the best system they had until computer dispatch programs, along with funding caught up to their needs. Faumuina further added, “It outlived technicians and parts availability.” This machine is still in the possession of the Oceanside Lifeguards today.
Another piece of equipment used by lifeguards to patrol from beach to beach was a Jeep CJ-5.
Produced from 1955 to 1983, this iconic, off-road vehicle was used by lifeguards for decades on both coasts.
Lifeguards in the early 1970s included Warren Mobley, Craig Burgess, Rick Adams, Danny Stunkard, Mike Shipley, Dan Stunkard, Ray Duncan, Dan Sullivan, Steve Hawkes, Frank Supranovich, Ted Cole, and Scott Tatum. There are dozens of others to recognize and Oceanside Lifeguards seek to document their long history with more names, stories, and photos.
In 1976, Mary Lee Christensen was the first female Oceanside Lifeguard hired in sixteen years. She served as a pool guard in New Jersey
Guardians of the Shore Lifeguards in the 1970s
before arriving in Oceanside. Out of eighteen applicants she ranked first and was one out of nine guards hired that year.
In 2009, the Oceanside Lifeguard Division incorporated into the Oceanside Fire Department. Prior to that, they were under the Harbor and Beaches Department.
Lifeguarding is a unique occupation, not just a summer job, often glamorized, but its serious business and rescues can be difficult and dangerous.
The Oceanside beaches will be proudly guarded by dedicated and well-trained men and women this summer, led by Tyler Berry, Beach Lifeguard Captain.
The current roster for Lifeguard Division and Assignments includes permanent staff of one Lifeguard Captain - Division Manager, three Lifeguard Lieutenants (two for Beach Operations and one for Marine Safety Unit), eight Lifeguard Sergeants (four for beach Operations, one for Junior Lifeguard and Public Education Program, and three for Marine Safety Unit), and seven Senior Beach Lifeguards (four for Beach Operations and three for Marine Safety Unit). Seasonal staff includes 77 Beach Lifeguards for Beach Operations for a total of 96 lifeguards.
Pete ‘Hot Dog’ Finlan
Pete “Hot Dog” Finlan is an artist whose eyepopping work doesn’t just turn heads, it melts brains. With his candy color flame-jobs and metal-flake madness, he’s a one-of-a-kind painter known to custom car, chopper, and hot rod heads all across the world; a master craftsman whose wizard-like skills in the spray booth have carried him to the highest heights of custom culture.
In a colorful career spanning more than four decades, from a crucial role on the pioneering reality TV series Monster Garage to his over-thetop work as the in-house artist at West Coast Choppers, to years of kustom creations for marquee auto events like SEMA & the Born Free Motorcycle Show, “Hot Dog” has truly done it all. Just to be clear, he would never tell you any of this. He’s the guy happy to step back and let his work speak for itself. But one thing he will tell you: he’s an Oceanside local—the son of a Marine drill instructor, proudly raised right here in the O.
Rewind to the early ‘80s. It was his “cool art teacher,” John Gaddard at El Camino High who first lit the spark, Pete said. “He had this little air brush set and kinda told me, once I finished my normal work for the class, I could mess with the air brush. I guess I just took to it—I started painting T-shirts, skateboards, I even sprayed checkers
onto Vans, before Vans did it.”
Seeking to turn art into a paying gig, he worked at Donald Takayama Surfboards after high school, hired on at the legendary shop as the brand’s sole artist. “But I wasn’t a surfer,” he said, “and a couple days a week I’d show up for work and find a note stuck to the door, ‘Waves are good, gone surfing’ …. I wanted to work but those Sea Hippies just wanted to surf.”
Pete was actually a skater—localizing Del Mar Skate Ranch and later a vert ramp he built in his backyard. Sessioning with kids like Tony Hawk and Mike McGill, it wasn’t long before the ramp— Pete’s Funland—appeared in the glossy pages of TransWorld Skateboarding mag.
Next was Mira Costa College where he honed his skills with body shop and auto paint classes before taking a job at Toyota of Carlsbad as a paint prepper. “I learned a ton while I was there—for this type of work you should learn in a busy body shop, where you need to be efficient—you learn all the tricks.”
Continually tinkering and working on his own projects, Pete’s side-hustle doing custom work on the weekends started to take over, so he rented his first shop space. “This was the rise of the mini-truck era—I was doing a lot of graphics and stripes, murals.”
As his abilities and acclaim expanded, Pete sprayed as a hired gun for high-end shops like Escondido’s Hot Rods & Custom Stuff and eventually got the call from the crew at Monster Garage—a juggernaut reality series starring soon-to-becelebrity Jesse James. The show built insane rides and mutant creations like a PT Cruiser that doubled as a wood chipper. Pete was hired on as the show’s artist and a fabricator, but it wasn’t until he pulled onto the set in a custom car he’d built and painted that Jesse James understood how Hot Dog really rolled. Until that day, Jesse had no idea Pete was a painter.
“Everyone was walking around the car, talking and Jesse goes, ‘you painted this thing? Not just striped it, you painted the whole thing?’” Pete nodded yes and on the spot, James said, “I’m building you a paint shop,” to which Pete promptly replied, “You’re full of shit.”
But a couple months later, he got the call and that state-of-the-art paint shop was ready— inside the new headquarters of West Coast Choppers in Long Beach. And for the next eight years, Hot Dog sprayed countless killer WCC bikes along with a wild array of commissioned work for hot rod and show-car builders from all over the world. He then spent another decade working out of his
WORDS: JOEL MUZZEY PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER
own namesake shop in Temecula.
But now it’s 2026, and Hot Dog is back home in Oceanside with a new shop. And he loves it. “I’m kinda downsizing and simplifying after years in that big shop—and now my commute is less than two minutes. I can literally pull down the shop door and be home in a minute.”
But make no mistake, the move is no sign of a slow down. “I’m basically here seven days a week,” he admitted. And with the stack of maskedoff motorcycle tanks, a mountain of helmets awaiting pinstripes, and the flotsam of partially-built bikes and low riders, it is obvious that Hot Dog remains in high demand. And as always, new things are in development. “I want to teach classes in this new shop,” he said. “Like pinstriping classes—to share some of the skills I’ve learned along the way.”
If you want a closer look at the colorful world of Hot Dog Kustoms, come out to their monthly Weiner Wednesday event, a BBQ and custom community hang-out held on the first Wednesday of each month. Grab a mustard dog and scope some cool cars, Pete will be working the grill.
From Surf to Sips: Introducing Waves to Wine
What do you get when you pair Oceanside’s surf culture with Temecula’s award winning wine country? A new experience fittingly called Waves to Wine.
A new partnership between Visit Oceanside and Visit Temecula Valley, Waves to Wine is not about checking off two destinations in a day—it’s about slowing down, extending a stay, and experiencing Southern California more fully.
Designed for both ease and flexibility, Waves to Wine features ready-made itineraries that blend coastal and inland experiences—from beachside stays and ocean activities to wine tastings, dining, and vineyard tours. Four curated themes— celebrations, wellness, outdoor adventure, and history and culture— are meant to inspire, not overschedule. It’s about giving travelers a simple, customizable way to easily plan their trip.
For Oceanside, it’s another way to show how much there is to discover beyond the beach. From creative farm-to-table and dock-to-dish dining to a growing arts scene and easy coastal energy, Oceanside continues to evolve as a place that rewards curiosity.
When you layer in Temecula’s wineries, agricultural roots, and expansive landscapes, it adds a whole
new dimension — one that invites visitors to expand their stay rather than compress it.
The benefits of this more sustainable approach to travel are real. Visitors who stay longer and travel more intentionally tend to spend more within the community, which benefits our local businesses. It also helps spread things out a bit, easing congestion and encouraging people to explore beyond the usual hotspots.
Beyond that, it encourages a deeper connection to place. When people take their time, they start to really get what makes Oceanside special, and that usually comes with more care and appreciation for the community.
Waves to Wine ultimately reflects a shift in how we think about travel. We’re intentionally shaping a regional experience that values depth over speed and connection over convention.
And while it’s designed with visitors in mind, locals are invited to discover this pairing, too. You might just be surprised by what you discover when you do.
To learn more and view the curated Waves to Wine itineraries, go to visitoceanside.org/waves-to-wine
Larence Tanjuaquio
WORDS: JAMEY STONE
PHOTO: ZACH CORDNER
I am always truly amazed at how many talented people are raised here in Oceanside. We have so many gifted humans excelling at so many different things, and it really blows me away.
Case in point: Larence Tanjuaquio. ‘L’ grew up mainly in the deep valley and, like so many of us, fell in love with skateboarding at an early age, which led him to making small skate videos with his homies. That’s where he began his love for media, starting out with filming and editing.
He eventually took a photography class as a prerequisite and little did he know how it would end up paying off and shaping his career path. He got his first break while attending the legendary ASR (Action Sports Retailer) trade shows that
were where the whole surf, skate, and fashion industry would attend each year to promote their latest pros, clothing, and boards drops.
That’s when a chance meeting with LRG founder Jonas Bevacqua landed him his first break. LRG was a brand that fused hip hop culture with skateboarding and fashion. His first assignment was to shoot the campaign for a young Kanye West. What a way to get your feet wet.
He went on to work with LRG for a few years before branching out on his own. L now has his own creative agency HBMS (Handsome Boy Modeling School), an ode to his hip hop roots, where he currently has multiple clients ranging from local brand Chemistry Surfboards, Save
Oceanside Sand, Bachans Japanese BBQ Sauce, and quite a few local restaurants around town.
L loves representing his Oside roots and raising his daughter, Izzy, here who is now twentyone and all grown up. He loves how we all have so much pride for the city and, even though we are growing, everyone still seems to know each other out in the streets.
Larence is the real deal and we here at The Osider are proud to call him a true Osider for life!
HBMSmedia.com @hbms.studio @its.just.l
America’s turning 250, and O’side is throwing the kind of party that’d make the Founding Fathers loosen their collars.
Join us at the Junior Seau Pier Amphitheatre for an afternoon of live music, local flavor, and classic Americana. Country star Craig Campbell headlines the stage alongside a full lineup of performances, while hundreds of local vendors, artists, and community groups bring the celebration to life.
Enjoy chili cook-o s, pinewood derby races, a full Fun Zone packed with free kids’ activities, and plenty of good eats along the way. Come celebrate 250 years of community, creativity, and freedom the O’side way.
Saturday, June 27, 2026
12pm-6pm (right after the parade)
Free admission
Junior Seau Pier Amphitheatre
Brought to you by The Oceanside Chamber of Commerce and County Supervisor Jim Desmond.
SAVE OCEANSIDE SAND (SOS)!
WORDS: ELIZABETH SCHWARTZE
SOS, the internationally recognized distress signal, especially applied to maritime distress, known as a cry for help! It’s also a signal for help that the City of Oceanside is heeding. In 2026, sand restoration and retention now have multiple programs in place to ensure that the heart and soul of Oceanside, its beaches, will be enjoyed for future generations of Osiders.
Loving Oceanside beaches and knowing it’s our greatest natural resource is more than just a feeling—it’s economics! Now, there is quantitative research to show that numbers don’t lie. Our beaches are a major economic catalyst.
A study commissioned for the City of Oceanside by Resilient Cities Catalyst (RCC) with support from Alumbra Innovations Foundation in October 2025 provided some key economic findings. An overview of the findings include:
• Economic Value: Oceanside’s beaches attract 25 million annual visits, generating $2.8 billion in direct visitor spending.
• Regional Impact: Including indirect and induced effects, beaches contribute $5.6 billion annually to the regional economy
• City Revenue: Beach-driven activity generates $81 million annually for the City’s tax revenue (transient occupancy tax, sales tax, property tax).
• Fiscal Risk of Inaction: Without ongoing shoreline management, visitation could drop by 10%, resulting in $280 million in lost spending annually and $7 million in General Fund impacts.
• Infrastructure at Risk: Critical public infrastructure along The Strand and Harbor may require $26-$46 million in replacement costs due to erosion and storm exposure.
With robust economic data to back up our steadfast knowledge, carving out resources to ensure our beaches are prioritized is happening in real time. One of the most valuable additions to the City Of Oceanside for coastal preservation is Jayme Timberlake, Coastal Zone Administrator. Since Timberlake’s hire in 2022, she works tirelessly in her “dream job” to rebuild Oceanside beach, ensuring that the sand restoration and retention projects come to fruition and continue to be monitored in the future. The main goal: restore sandy beaches in Oceanside with innovative, multi-benefit projects.
KEY CURRENT OCEANSIDE COASTAL RESILIENCY PROJECTS IN OCEANSIDE INCLUDE:
US Army Corps of Engineers Harbor Navigation Dredging
An average of 250,000 cubic yards of sand is dredged from Oceanside Harbor on an annual basis. Dredging commenced in April 2026, and currently there are plans to dredge in fall 2026. According to Timberlake, “Many people think that dredging is done in Oceanside for restoring beaches, but it actually is for navigation. The city benefits by having the sand placed on the beach. Dredging of the channel will always be needed because the Federal Boat Basin and Harbor were built between two perennial river systems. Sand will always infill the channel.”
The City of Oceanside reports the 2026 Dredge Updates:
• The operation is expected to wrap up by May 9, 2026, barring any equipment issues. Keep in mind that bad weather and high waves can also temporarily pause operations, which may cause this timeline to shift.
• Safety measures planned during the dredging operation include a delineated pathway for moving heavy equipment, posted signs, flagmen, and a lead vehicle for tractors. No events in the area will be permitted during any portion
of the dredge cycle. Environmental safety measures will also be implemented. Snowy Plover monitoring will be in place; a fence will be set up near the San Luis Rey River. The area will be monitored for grunion.
• Water quality is consistently monitored during the dredge operations, per permit requirements from the CA Coastal Commission and Water
Board. If any water quality issues were to arise, dredging operations would cease until the issue is addressed and testing shows the issue is abated.
• The average amount of sand dredged from the inlet annually and placed onto Oceanside beaches is usually between 200,000 and 300,000 cubic yards.
Coastal Dunes Restoration Project
Dunes are native to Southern California beaches and can be found naturally on the undisturbed neighboring beaches of Camp Pendleton. The current dune project began in January 2026 and is noted by sand fences blocking foot traffic at North Jetty Harbor Beach, San Luis Rey River Mouth, and North Strand.
The sand fences that can be seen at the project sites will slow down aeolian transport of sand, while native plants will capture the sand and raise the elevation of the beach. Vegetated dunes stabilize sand and become a natural form of sand retention. The goal is that by encouraging the re-growth of native habitat, the natural benefits of restoring the dunes will allow the sand to collect as it did historically.
According to the City of Oceanside, “The pilot project includes several restoration sites along Oceanside’s shoreline. At Harbor Beach, dunes will be restored near the North Jetty (Plot 1) and the Harbor Beach roundabout area (Plots 2–4). Additional restoration plots are located along the North Strand (Plots 1–4), while the San Luis Rey River Mouth will feature designated dune restoration exclusionary areas. Together, these sites provide a representative range of back-beach conditions where restoration can demonstrate how vegetated dunes support sand retention and coastal resilience.”
The restoration techniques currently being adopted on Oceanside beaches are part of broader coastal dune restoration efforts happening throughout the state.
Sand Compatibility and Opportunistic Use Permits (SCOUP) for Sand Replenishment
The City of Oceanside has obtained permits to allow for placement of up to 150,000 cubic yards of beach quality sand annually from
nearby development projects.
Tyson Street Park is currently utilizing 2,000 cubic yards of SCOUP sand as of spring 2026. The beach-quality sand was recovered from different development projects, including the development of Frontwave Arena. The sand is being stored at El Corazon Yard for future use.
The Tyson Street Park project is a firstof-its kind for Oceanside. The city understands the placement is not permanent, but with the natural sand cycles from north to south, it will help replenish sand for beaches to the south. The idea behind SCOUP is repurposing beachquality sand that was previously discarded, and using it on our beaches that desperately need sand.
RE:BEACH Oceanside
RE:BEACH is the project making headlines. Stewards of global beaches and oceans are watching Oceanside since RE:BEACH will be the first of its kind in North America.
What is RE:BEACH? In 2020, the City of Oceanside completed a Sand Replenishment and Retention Device feasibility study. In 2021, an international design competition was held where environmental firms competed to present their renditions of the best way to save Oceanside sand. In 2024, the Oceanside City Council unanimously approved the winning RE:BEACH design. The winning design was from Australiabased International Coastal Management (ICM). ICM has achieved success on the Gold Coast of Australia for artificial reefs. They proposed a hybrid system: an offshore reef paired with headlands and sand nourishment.
Save Oceanside Sand (SOS) Communications Director Charles Bowen said, “RE:BEACH represents a major step forward. By pairing approximately 900,000 cubic yards of sand with
a carefully engineered onshore and offshore retention solution, the project is designed to ensure sand moves naturally along the coast while also helping it stay in place longer. The result: wider, more resilient beaches that can be enjoyed for years, not just seasons.”
The RE:BEACH pilot project is a nature-based solution combining two artificial headlands to stabilize the back beach and an offshore artificial reef to slow down nearshore erosive forces— basically stop the wave attack directly on the beach. These constructs will help to retain the sand nourishment component and rebuild beach width. It’s a regional and national first. This is Oceanside, California, a classic Southern California beach town, getting it done!
With the confirmed pilot project location site between Tyson Street and Wisconsin Avenue, the project team is in the process of refining the design to achieve success.
In January 2026, the RE:BEACH team traveled to O.H. Hinsdale Wave Research Laboratory at Oregon State University. Reported by the City of Oceanside, “The directional wave basin is the only large-scale wave basin on the west coast that can support full-scale experimental modeling of coastal processes and wave-structure interactions under highly-controlled conditions. The physical model is a 1:35 scaled version of the Oceanside coastline, from Seagaze Drive to Wisconsin Avenue, with the proposed project elements placed within the modeled coastline. To perform the modeling, the project features are built to model scale in the 160 foot by 87 foot wave basin and then tested against various oceanographic conditions (e.g., tides and waves) to see how the design performs.”
The team watched a scaled version of the offshore reef and headland system in a wave basin to evaluate wave breaking behavior, sediment transport processes, and overall system stability
across a range of conditions. Because Oceanside’s coastline is exposed to all swell directions, the current reef design accounts for waves coming from the north, west, and south. Since the ocean is unpredictable, the project team anticipates further refinement of key dimensions and natural variables.
The goal is to have RE:BEACH permitted and shovel ready by the end of 2027/early 2028. The proposed timeline set forth is:
January 2026 to June 2026:
Final design and specifications
June 2026 to September 2026: CEQA document development, environmental compliance and permitting October 2026: CEQA public hearing September 2026 to September 2027: Resource and regulatory agency permitting October 2027 to October 2028: Project construction
However, funding is the main hurdle that needs to be cleared to move forward. “Hope is not a strategy. We need to aggressively advocate. The voice of the community needs to be louder,” proclaimed Bob Ashton with SOS.
Timberlake reports on the city’s current initiatives, “We have applied for two large grants from the State, which includes 1) Division of Boating and Waterways Public Beach Restoration Program (for the sand portion of the RE:BEACH project), and 2) a grant from State Coastal Conservancy (funded by the Prop 4 Climate Bond). We will find out about the first option in January 2027, and we will find out about the second option in June 2026.”
The report by Resilient Cities Catalyst also provides four options to explore that could help cover coastal management costs:
1. A 1% increase is the transient occupancy tax, or TOT, rate, which would bring about $1.8 million annually
2. An increase of 0.2% to 0.3% in sales tax, which would add $3.9 million to $5.5 million annually, but would require voter approval
3. A $2 increase in beach parking fees during peak hours, which would raise about $540,000
4. Larger allocation of general fund money and revenue from Measure X, a temporary sales tax increase approved by city voters
After visiting Oregon State University and releasing images/videos of the modeling, RE:BEACH has drawn significant media attention, including an article in Surfline on April 10, 2026, entitled, “Oceanside’s Artificial Reef is Focused on Sand, but Might Still Create Waves.”
Yes, Oceanside is most definitely one of the most consistent waves in Southern California, producing surfers like World Surf League Champion, Caity Simmers. While sand restoration is the goal, there are also broader benefits.
Timberlake stated, “We need recognition at the national level to help get funding and to create a pathway for others to follow. The main objective is to sustain sand on the beach, but creating potential surf opportunities is also a recreational benefit of this project.”
Timberlake reports on four multi-recreational benefits to the headlands design. First, a beach buffer with a sea wall will build out the beach. Second, with sand on the beach, it’s safer to enter and exit the ocean. Third, it creates a sand bar, and, fourth, the reef there has an ecological benefit that is also structural.
The recent media attention is definitely garnering support in the right direction and advocates are needed to Save Oceanside Sand! Fortunately, there is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit powered by locals: Save Oceanside Sand (SOS). SOS is an Oceanside-based non-profit advocacy program working tirelessly with the City of Oceanside.
“For the past seven years, Save Oceanside Sand (SOS) has been the consistent voice of the community, continuously advocating for one clear goal: restoring Oceanside’s beaches with a sustainable, long-term strategy,” reported SOS Communications Director, Charles Bowen.
The scaled version of the artificial reef being tested at Oregon State University.
Tyson Headland
“ Your voice matters. Your support matters. The future of our coastline depends on it," Bowen said. "Join Save Oceanside Sand today and be part of restoring our beaches for generations to come.”
He went on to elaborate, “Today, the City of Oceanside is advancing the RE:BEACH pilot project toward final design and environmental reviews. This progress did not happen by chance. It reflects years of consistent community advocacy of engaging elected officials, working with City staff, ensuring beach restoration remains a top priority.”
After decades of inattention to coastal
management, the City of Oceanside has charted a path for success. The projects in place are slow and steady, utilizing science and community support to let our beaches flourish now and in the future to benefit generations of Oceanside locals and visitors.
The sand restoration projects are a love letter to the future. We love our beaches, now let’s Save Oceanside Sand!
Wisconsin Headland
The Privateer presents:
The Beach House
Herradura Silver & Izo Mezcal mixed with Aperol and passion fruit liqueur, finished with pineapple and lime juice
Ingredients:
1 oz Herradura Silver
½ oz Izo Mezcal - Joven
½ oz Aperol
½ oz Gifford Fruta de la Passion
½ oz lime juice
½ oz pineapple juice
Directions:
Pour all ingredients into a shaker, add ice, shake vigorously, and pour into a short glass over ice.
The Privateer's Eric Klier makes a mean Beach House!
PHOTOS: KEVIN MIJARES
SAN DIEGO STRIKE FORCE
WORDS: ELIZABETH SCHWARTZE
PHOTOS: KEVIN MIJARES
Allow The Osider to introduce our readers to the Indoor Football League’s (IFL) San Diego Strike Force. If you already know, then you know!
The electric excitement behind the professional indoor football team, San Diego Strike Force, can be summarized when the announcer says, “Warning, if you’re in the first three rows, a player may end up in your lap!”
San Diego Strike Force plays home games at Frontwave Arena. It’s indoors, but it’s everything that’s great about the game of football—and a little bit more.
The little bit more? Well, the football field is in such close proximity on the arena floor, plenty of errant footballs find their way into the stands where zealous fans dive for the prized commodity. And sometimes a player ends up in the stands, too, in an attempt to catch the ball. It’s football in 4D where the crowd gets high-five’s from the referees, players, and cheerleaders throughout the night. It’s one big thrilling crowd of football fans!
With Frontwave Arena hosting home games, the minute fans walk in the door, they’re greeted
with supporters, local restaurants, and The Bombshells! The Bombshells are SD Strike Force Cheerleaders. With a roster of approximately thirty Bombshells, their job is cheering, entertainment, and crowd connection. They throw t-shirts and give high fives to the crowds along with top-tier dancing.
“It’s fun, and a different environment from the traditional Friday Night Lights, but there is so much more opportunity to engage the crowds,” stated Bombshell Isabella Frontiero.
Junior the Shark is also the team mascot. Junior wears a #55 jersey, which is a tribute to Oceanside's beloved footballer, Junior Seau.
Since 2019, San Diego Strike Force has been part of the Indoor Football League. After a twoyear hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the team came back stronger than ever in 2022. Head Coach Taylor Genuser has been with SD Strike Force since 2019. In 2022, he was named as the interim head coach, and then given the official head coach role in 2023.
“It’s my full-time job, and each year gets better,” Genuser said. “My first year, I was figuring
out my role as head coach. Now I’ve got that covered, and I’m learning about game day operations—how to get people in the arena and fall in love with it so they come back. It’s so much fun, once they’re in the arena. They love it!”
Genuser has plenty of football and coaching experience. He played Division II College Football in New Mexico, then arena football for four years. He’s been coaching since 2014 between high school football at Helix High School, junior college at Mesa since 2021, and SD Strike Force since 2019.
What’s the difference between arena football and indoor football? According to Genuser, “Arena football is a little more old school. Indoor football is more transferable to traditional outdoor football. I will always choose to coach indoor over arena because it’s a more balanced and transferable game that’s similar to outdoor football.”
Genuser explained his role as a head coach is always to instill a “professional mindset” to get players prepared to move up. “I take pride in putting these players in positions to move up. Last year we moved Christian Olmstead, and
Josue Castro to the Canadian Football League (CFL).”
Nate Davis is #8, the quarterback. This is his third year with SD Strike Force. He originally played in the NFL for four years with the San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, and the Indianapolis Colts.
“I love it! I’m from Ohio, and Oceanside is now my second home,” Davis said. “I live here during the season, and it’s a great community, tons of support.” At a recent home game, Davis tied his own record for a total of nine passing touchdowns.
Adam Shackleford is the president of football operations and defensive coordinator. This is his 26th year coaching indoor football.
Shackleford explained, “This is my second year with the San Diego Strike Force in Oceanside. We are excited to make an impact in this community. We would like to thank Oceanside for welcoming us and making us feel at home. The community here is genuine and we have terrific fans. We are building a foundation and setting a standard both on and off the field to provide quality entertainment and bring in high character young men to represent both Oceanside and San Diego. We are building programs like our relationship with the Boys and Girls Club. We also have plans of getting into the schools and having our players be positive examples for the youth of Oceanside with a simple message that they too can chase their dreams. Our success on the field has always been important, but the impact that we know we can make off the field is why we do what we do.”
Oceanside’s own Nathan Tafao is the creative director and videographer for SD Strike Force. He’s been in Oceanside for sixteen years, and this is his second year with SD Strike Force.
“This community of Oceanside is really big into football and family, so Strike Force is perfect for Oceanside because it’s not hard to sell football to Oceanside,” Tafao said. “My job is to tell the team’s story through media and get the fans there. Once they’re there, they’re hooked.”
And that is true, the fans are hooked. “I grew up playing football, and I loved playing football. Indoor football is very unique. It’s grassroots football with a fun, engaged community, and it’s so much more fun,” fan Matt Piper, excitedly proclaimed. His friend, Navy Nguyen reiterated, “This is my second season trying to go to every game because you really can’t beat a Friday night hangout with friends. And, here, it feels like everyone is friends.”
Celebrities love it, too. Oceanside rap artist Bishop Snow said, “It’s my third game and it’s just great that all this is here, right in Oceanside. This is Oceanside.”
And the kids? A charismatic crowd of MLK Middle School students from Oceanside reported that they go to every game because, as they unanimously proclaimed, “It’s amazing!” After his first game, nine-year-old Clark Schwartze announced, “I want to go to every game! When’s the next one? Can I go for my birthday in May?”
After the game, anyone interested in meeting
the players and getting their autographs are invited to “bring it to the sideline.” Those errant footballs that make it to the stands? Those are a prized commodity. But, anything can be autographed, not just footballs, so crowds of visitors, especially kids, wait after the game. Quarterback Nate Davis said, “That’s the best feeling. When I come out on the field for autographs at the end of the night. I love to see the youth and be a role model.”
So Oceanside, this is professional football for our community. Four quarters. Fifteen minutes each. There is the notorious “Kiss Cam” and the “6-7” dance up on the jumbotrons. Rubio’s sponsors a “Turnover Taco” which means a free fish taco with any purchase and the promo code for the night. Local Guahan Grill sponsors and local Ohana Street Bites represents, as well.
It is truly everything great about football in Oceanside, but indoors. So leave the sweatshirts at home because watching football indoors with an engaged crowd of football fans is so much more!
Also, consider taking the Sprinter to home games! The Rancho Del Oro stop is just a few blocks to the arena.
Upcoming home games to catch the fun:
Saturday, May 23 at 4:30 PM
Friday, June 19 at 7:00 PM
Monday, July 6 at 6:00 PM
Saturday, July 18 at 8:00 PM
Friday, July 24 at 6:00 PM
Semper Fi & America’s Fund: A Lifeline for America’s Wounded Warriors
BY AMY FORSYTHE, MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS REPORTER
In a community deeply connected to military service, few organizations embody the spirit of support and resilience quite like the Semper Fi & America’s Fund.
Headquartered in Oceanside, the nonprofit has grown from a grassroots effort into one of the most impactful veteran support organizations in the nation providing not just aid, but lifelong commitment to those who have sacrificed for their country.
Founded in 2003 by military spouse Karen Guenther, the organization began in the early days of the Iraq War. Motivated by compassion and service, what started as a small group of Marine Corps spouses gathering around a kitchen table quickly turned into a mission-driven movement.
As large numbers of wounded troops were returning to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton from a combat zone, these volunteers provided bedside comfort like snacks, toiletries, and emotional support. Their simple goal was clear: fill the gaps that traditional systems could not.
From a Kitchen Table Idea to Nationwide Support
From those humble beginnings, the Fund formally incorporated in May 2004 and steadily expanded its reach. Today, it serves all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, providing immediate financial assistance and long-term support to critically wounded, ill, and injured service members, veterans, and their families.
Guenther’s idea for The Fund began while she was a registered nurse at Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, where she witnessed firsthand the immense challenges faced by wounded Marines and their families.
Under Guenther’s leadership, Semper Fi & America’s Fund evolved from a local volunteer
initiative into a trusted national organization. It now serves all branches of the military, maintaining low overhead and high transparency. The Fund’s model emphasizes personal connections with beneficiaries, ensuring sustained recovery and independence.
“For many of our service members, the effects of their injuries last a lifetime. The continued support from our donors allows us to be there for our veterans and military families if they need us. It has been a true honor to provide lifetime support to our military families,” Guenther stated online.
Commitment and Growth Beyond Camp Pendleton
Over the past two decades, the impact has been profound. The Fund has delivered more than $300 million in assistance to over 30,000 service members and their families, addressing urgent needs ranging from hospital expenses to long-term rehabilitation. These funds often arrive within days, sometimes within 24 to 48 hours, helping families navigate the immediate financial strain that follows catastrophic injury.
The Fund’s programs are structured around three core pillars: direct service member and family support, transition assistance, and integrative wellness. This holistic approach recognizes that recovery extends far beyond physical healing. Programs addressing post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury, and mental health are just as critical as financial aid.
Lasting Impact
As one veteran involved with the organization reflected after helping victims of the Boston Marathon bombing, “Life’s not over.” That sentiment captures the essence of the Fund’s work—restoring
hope, purpose, and independence to those facing life-altering injuries.
The organization’s impact is also reflected in its reputation. It consistently earns top ratings from watchdog groups, including perfect scores for accountability and transparency. With an overhead rate of roughly seven percent, most donations go directly to programs that support veterans and their families.
Locally, the Fund’s presence near Camp Pendleton reinforces its deep ties to the Oceanside community. Many of its founders, volunteers, and supporters are directly connected to the military families it serves. This proximity allows the organization to respond quickly and maintain a personal connection that larger institutions often lack.
For the Camp Pendleton and Oceanside community, the Fund represents more than a local nonprofit. It is a testament to compassion in action when neighbors helping neighbors fulfills its promise by honoring its promise to those who have borne the burden of service. To learn more about The Fund, go to: www.thefund.org.
Amy Forsythe is an award-winning combat photographer, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and author of "Heroes Live Here: A Tribute to Camp Pendleton Marines." She spent more than 30 years telling the stories of service members around the world and serves as an advocate for veterans and military families.
Semper Fi & America’s Fund was selected as a Nonprofit of the Year by 74th District Assemblywoman Laurie Davies.
SOLIS TEAM + FRIENDS PRESENT
THE RIDE AGAIN PROJECT
A BOARD DRIVE + SUMMER BLOCK PARTY / SUPPORTING LOCAL YOUTH
Local Retailer
OG Juice Co.
WORDS: KATIA BRUNSON
Cooler than Kool-Aid, OG Juice Co. has opened doors to a brand new storefront on Wisconsin Avenue, bringing eco-friendly, fresh pressed juice to Oceanside.
The “OG” in OG Juice Co. is short for “organic... or Original Gangster,” said owner Will Bitoni. Bitoni and co-owners Patti Garcia and Marc Guzman are the OG crew slinging the juice and promoting nutrition, wellness, and the environment.
“It’s a lifestyle,” Will said, “and it’s for everyone.”
As a long time Oceanside resident, Patti knew this seaside community would be the perfect place to set up shop. It’s reminiscent of the lifestyle that OG Juice Co. promotes and an ideology Will dedicates himself to: “gangster, tattoos, sober, healthy.”
If you’ve lived in Oceanside long enough, you appreciate a brand that taps into a vibe of nineties rap classics and skate punk. You can always catch the Oceanside sunset on their shop mural created by local tattoo and graffiti artists Brags Design, Style, and Menso One.
Will started his business in Murrieta before expanding to Oceanside. His culinary background led him to find success selling raw, coldpressed, organic juice with no added sugar or preservatives. What you see on the bottle is what you get: a combination of fruits and vegetables that promote gut health and “maximum nutrition.’
You can try a rainbow of different flavors from sweet and fruity, “O’side Punch”, made with orange, pineapple, apple, blue spirulina, lemon and ginger, to more vegetal and refreshing flavors like the “Cucumber Cleanser”, with cucumber, lemon, mint, celery, green apple, and ginger. If your kids won’t eat their veggies, hit ‘em with a “Sweet Beet” packed with blueberries, beets, pineapple, apple, and basil.
Everything is made in small batches for quality control with organic fruits and vegetables sourced from local farms. You can also find immunity boosters—mini bottles packed with dense nutrients and ingredients that fight inflammation.
If you want a bigger boost, OG sells Jamaica sourced sea moss, a popular superfood containing ninety two types of minerals and is high in calcium, potassium and iron. Will Bitoni’s sea moss is prepared with ginger, cinnamon, and honey, giving it a similar flavor and texture to applesauce. The OG crew swears by this superfood and takes a spoonful every morning!
The OG Juice Co. ethos also promotes zero waste. They sell most of their juices in glass bottles so customers can return them to the store and earn up to seventy-five cents for each clean bottle. Another zero waste initiative your furry friend can get behind? OG Juice Co. sells organic, grain free dog treats made from left over fruit pulp, providing nutrients and a tasty treat for your canine!
The interest in supporting the community goes beyond making healthy juice. Will uses the shop as a production studio to showcase local artists and musicians. He invites them to perform live sets after hours, NPR’s “tiny desk” style. You can find these sessions on Youtube by searching “OG Juice Jams” and following on Instagram. Recently OG teamed up with local Oceanside rapper, Bishop Snow, to host a beach cleanup and they look forward to doing more to give back to the community of Oceanside that has welcomed them with open arms.
Will’s goal is to partner up with other entrepreneurs dedicated to the healthy lifestyle and OG brand to open more OG Juice Co. shops and continue spreading healthy living and vibrant communities. They are currently working on a partnership with Local Roots to widen their production and distribution while maintaining a quality, healthy, zero waste product.
Oceanside locals receive a dollar off on their purchase, so stop by on your way down to the beach for a refreshing, eco-friendly, and nutritious treat! Pro tip: try the Mystery Flavor, you won’t be disappointed. Be sure to follow them on Instagram for ways to get involved in the community and support your local juice joint!
PHOTOS: KEVIN MIJARES
Owners Patti Garcia, Will Bitoni and Marc Guzman.
PHOTO: MONTI
Local Business
Crimson Knife Co.
Not all knives are made the same. There are a ton of great brands out there that are designed in the USA but are in fact manufactured overseas.
Sure, they will do the trick when out camping, fishing, or just for an everyday carry, but if you are looking for something different, limited and one-of-a-kind, the good folks at Crimson Knives have just what you’re looking for.
Each knife is designed and handcrafted right here in Oceanside by lifelong Osider Hans Molenkamp. Hans’ day job is working as the head of marketing for the combat division of Monster Energy, but his passion is creating one-of-a-kind masterpieces at his Oceanside foundry. He started making knives just over two years ago.
If you know Hans like I do, whatever he sets his mind to he dives in full force and learns from the best. In fact, he apprenticed under the legendary Neil Kamimura who taught him everything needed to become a master.
Each and every knife is full tang, hand forged with the best metals, shaped by hammer and anvil, hardened in house, and sharpened and polished by hand with extreme detail each step of the way. The materials used for the handles are made from the best hardwoods and materials available in the market.
The only way to purchase one of these beauties is to place a custom order or catch one of their limited drops when they post them on Instagram.
His crew is tight and includes Wayne Palacios, who does all the leather work for the sheaths and wallets, Micah Begelman handles the grinder and sanding along with production work, and Joey Siplyak is the general manager and has been Hans’ right hand man since the beginning.
When you go to the factory, it’s a real pleasure to see just how tight and efficiently this crew works together. Each department is hard at work at this labor of love and it shows in the final product.
I highly recommend giving Crimson a follow so you can see the products and building process for yourselves.
Crimson Knife Co.
crimsonknives.com
@crimsonknifeco
WORDS: JAMEY STONE PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER
L to R: GM Joey Siplyak and Owner Hans Molenkamp
Dining: Valley
Birria’s El Padrino
WORDS: ALONDRA FIGUEROA PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER
Tucked in right by the intersection of El Camino and Mission Avenue in the Mission Camino Plaza, you will find the family owned Birria’s El Padrino. This little gem of a Mexican spot is low key casual but great quality. They’ve been around for eight years, and their clientele is as diverse and as strong as our fair city.
We were happy to sit down with the El Padrino crew to share some of their favorite menu items and a bit of their history. They are simply a local family that saw an opportunity to showcase their Zacateca style cuisine and jumped at the chance. They are still thrilled and so grateful to the Oceanside community for their continued love and support over the years.
We started with the famous Quesabirria Taco Special, which are three small but delicious tacos filled with Monterey Jack cheese and their special family recipe beef birria served with the classic consomme to dip in. It’s important to note that they also offer the more traditional goat birria as well for those who crave that really authentic flavor. We also tried the carnitas Mulita which is essentially a quesadilla and, my gosh, it was so simple, but so great. It's a must try if you want something other than beef.
We want to mention that there is never food just sitting around or pre-made. All of their food is made to order and prepared fresh. It’s impressive to know that all of their amazing soups, like the seafood 7 Mares or their Posole and Menudo, are made fresh daily!
Next we tried one of their newer items, the Hot Cheeto Fries, and they were awesome! Served with any kind of meat you want, we tried the carne asada and it was fire! The yummy fries are covered in cheese, beans, meat, and cheese sauce as well as hot cheetos. Normally, I am not the one going for these trendy items, but this was crazy good. I highly recommend it if you are feeling like having a fun, tasty meal that is big enough to share.
The Coctel de Camaron is their signature shrimp cocktail which consists of tons of shrimp stuffed into a giant chalice. The shrimp are swimming in a clamato based broth with cucumber, tomato, and onion and is served with chips and crackers.
Their famous secret family recipe Sopa de Birria is unmatched in town. It was absolutely delicious and served with corn tortillas in a giant 32 ounce bowl that you can never finish. This was my favorite dish and we will be ordering it over and over again.
Our experience at Birria’s El Padrino was wonderful. The staff is friendly and helpful and if you aren't sure what to order they have a vast menu that ensures anyone and everyone can find something they like. Keep in mind that everything is made to order so while things are fast you may need to wait a bit for your freshly made food, but it is worth it. Be sure to stop by when you're hankering for some delicious Mexican food, and we are certain you will not be disappointed!
Hot Cheeto Fries
Quesabirria Taco Special
Coctel de Camaron
Sopa de Birria
Dining: Coastal
Ticca Tikka
Oceanside, get ready to spice up your life!
Located on Mission Avenue, Ticca Tikka has officially burst onto the scene, bringing the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine to our beautiful coastal community.
The menu here is packed with delicious options, but there are a few you must try.
First up is the Garlic Chicken Kabab. We're talking juicy chicken breast marinated to perfection in yogurt, garlic, ginger, and cilantro for a whopping 24 hours. That means every single bite is incredibly tender and literally bursting with layers of flavor.
Next, you absolutely have to order the Butter Chicken. Forget the bland, overly sweet butter chicken you may have had elsewhere. Ticca Tikka's version features aromatic golden chicken pieces bathed in an incredible creamy curry sauce. The sauce alone is so good. I could have eaten by the spoonful, like soup!
And if you're looking for a chicken option with a bit of a kick, look no further than the Chicken 65. This crispy deep-fried marinated chicken, featuring flavors of ginger, lemon, and red chilies, originating from Chennai, India, is spicy, savory, and downright addictive.
Of course, no Indian meal is complete without some incredible rice, and the Chicken Biryani does not disappoint. It's a fragrant masterpiece of long-grain basmati rice stir-fried with tender chunks of boneless chicken, onions, spices, herbs, and even some crunchy nuts.
Now, let's talk desserts. You absolutely must try the Gulab Jamun, featuring golden, deep-fried dough balls soaked in a rich, sweet honey glaze. They are decadent, warm, and simply heavenly. Or, for something cool and refreshing, go for the Pistachio Ice-cream, a creamy homemade ice cream infused with rich, nutty pistachio flavor for a smooth and indulgent experience.
Finally, to wash it all down, you can't go wrong with a Mango Lassi, a creamy, housemade mango yogurt drink that is both sweet and refreshing. Or, for a unique and beautiful beverage, try The Rose Drink, a refreshing blend of chilled milk and Rooh Afza served over ice for a sweet, floral escape.
In short, Ticca Tikka is a vibrant addition to the Oceanside food scene. So head on down and get ready for a flavor adventure! You won't regret it.
WORDS: SHELBY ROWE PHOTOS: KEVIN MIJARES
Garlic Chicken Kabob Chicken 65
Chicken Biryani
The Rose Drink and Mango Lassi
Dining: Coastal
Kahlo Café
WORDS: KATIA BRUNSON
PHOTOS: ZACH CORDNER
Grace Kelly Ayala, owner and head baker of Oceanside’s new business, celebrates her community by opening her dream cafe that brings Latin flair to modern cafe culture.
Ayala drew inspiration from her upbringing to shape the vision of Kahlo Café. Inside, a vibrant, cobalt blue wall covered with an array of ornamental wooden crosses and potted plants is reminiscent of the inviting decor you find at abuela’s house or Frida Kahlo’s home in Coayacan.
The menu is rooted in authenticity, quality, and fresh ingredients, offering a wide variety of drinks, sandwiches, and pastries made in house from her own recipes; Latin favorites such as tres leches cake, flan, and churro cheesecake. Her cinnamon rolls are a sweet dream with a generous helping of homemade icing on top.
As a young, female business owner, Ayala is no stranger to doubts, fears, and being underestimated, but her family has always believed in her. She started working at thirteen, helping her parent’s business, Frida’s Tacos, grow from the ground up.
When her father offered her the space that would become Kahlo Café, he promised it would be hers to build on her own with the family’s support.
Kahlo Café’s menu has something for everyone, including innovative twists on old coffee standards. The Strawberries and Cream Latte is beautifully layered with coffee, cream and real, pureed strawberries that add a fresh, delicate sweetness. The Strawberry Matcha layers of red, white, and green evoke the proud colors of the Mexican flag.
If you’re not into coffee, Kahlo Café serves fruit infused “refreshers,” like the tropical Mango
Passionfruit or Sparkling Sangria that can be made with sparkling water or Redbull, perfect for anytime you need a “pick me up.”
Brunch selections on the menu include the lox bagel, a soft bagel with cream cheese topped with salty smoked salmon, creamy avocado, slivered red onion, crunchy sliced cucumber, and capers. Other items include avocado toast, pb&j toast, and the breakfast bagel, which comes with chipotle spread, choice of ham or turkey with a poached egg on top.
Frida Kahlo inspired menu items include a banana latte, cleverly named “Fulang-Chang” after Frida Kahlo’s pet monkey. For lunch, the “Diego Rivera” sandwich has it all, stacked with turkey, ham, tuna, soft panela cheese, and a crunchy slaw of carrots and onions. It’s a hearty sandwich, fit for Rivera himself.
For years, Frida Kahlo has been an icon in the Ayala family. Kahlo suffered most of her life with debilitating medical issues, but still found strength to make art and leave behind a legacy. A few years ago, Grace Kelly Ayala was diagnosed with Lupus. Bedridden, she looked to Frida as inspiration. Ayala said, “If you believe in something, don’t let any person or circumstance change how you feel about it.”
It is important to Ayala that her growth is aligned with serving her community and creating a sense of home away from home. It’s why she offers Mexican classics like chocolate abuelita (Mexican hot chocolate), milkshakes served in a bag, and treats such as candied apples covered with tajin and pulparindo, a spicy-sweet, tangy staple in popular Mexican snacks. It’s why she
hosts Loteria nights once a month and workshops at the cafe, like piñata and candle making, and honors service members with discounts for firefighters, police officers, and members of the military.
With her family, community, and the spirit of Frida Kahlo, she begins her legacy. If you want to see the menu or join community events at Kahlo Cafe, follow them on Instagram and keep your eyes and ears open for a new project Grace Kelly Ayala is working on! Coming soon!
Diego Rivera sandwich
Breakfast Bagel
Owner Grace Kelly Ayala
The Osider Publisher Jamey Stone
Bar & Restaurant Guide
BAKERIES/DONUTS
85°C BAKERY CAFE
3762 Mission Ave, Unit 102 (442) 266-8077
101 BAGELS & SUBS
323 North Coast Hwy. (760) 421-6555
CRUMBL - OCEANSIDE
459 College Blvd (760) 330-5969
DIRTY DOUGH
1850 Rancho Del Oro, Ste 160 (442) 266-8283
KIMY GETS SKINNY DOATNUT
2530 Vista Way (760) 231-1319
HILL STREET DONUT HOUSE
1926 South Coast Hwy. (760) 439-7741
I LOVE BAGELS
3910 Vista Way, Ste 101 (760) 945-3838
LA PERLA TAPATIA
1910 Mission Ave. (760) 721-8486
LE RENDEZ-VOUS
FRENCH BAKERY
4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 414-9109
MISSION DONUT HOUSE
1502 Mission Ave. (760) 757-2979
MR. DONUTS
1950 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 967-6508
O'SIDE BAKERY
3815 Mission Ave. Suite 101 (760) 305-9500
PARLOR DOUGHNUTS
331 N Cleveland St. (760) 231-5150
SAM’S DONUT SHOP
3504 College Blvd. Suite A (760) 945-0416
SK’S DONUTS
1129 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-0455
SAN LUIS REY BAKERY & RESTAURANT
490 North El Camino Real (760) 433-7242
STRAWBERRY SHACK
211 N Tremont St (760) 458-0734
BAR AND GRILLS
COCOCABANA
408 Pier View Way (760) 688-0195
THE DRAFT RESTAURANT & SPORTS BAR
4225 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 631-4700
FAIRWAYS KITCHEN & BAR
5201 Village Drive (760) 967-8400
FAT JOE’S O’SIDE
424 S Coast Hwy. (760) 722-5637
FINNEY'S CRAFTHOUSE (619) 825-1400
212 North Tremont St
FRANKIE'S
406 Pier View Way (442) 266-2270
JUNKYARD SPORTS BAR & GRILL
3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 231-6600
LITTLE FAWN
131 S Coast Hwy (442) 266-2781
MISSION AVE. BAR & GRILL
711 Mission Ave. (760) 637–2222
OSIDE SPORTSBAR & GRILL
113 South Coast Hwy (760) 722-5968
PCH SPORTS BAR & GRILL
1835 South Coast Hwy (760) 721-3955
RED ROOSTER
1985 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 754-8383
ROOKIE’S SPORTS GRILL
2216 South El Camino Real (760) 757-1123
SOUND BY THE SEA
325 S Coast Hwy (760) 547-5441
TONY’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL
274 South Harbor Drive (760) 433-8466
THE LOBBY TIKI BAR & GRILL
408 Pier View Way (760) 280-7902
BBQ
ENZO'S BBQ & ALEHOUSE
4111 Oceanside Boulevard (760) 643-9602
FELIX’S BBQ WITH SOUL 3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd. (760) 439-7072
GUAHAN GRILL
515 Mission Ave (760) 806-4826
HILL STREET BREWING
2002 S Coast Hwy (442) 266-8227 hillstreetbrewing.com
PRIMO FOODS
606 Morse Street (760) 439-8711
BREAKFAST DINERS AND CAFÉS
101 CAFÉ
631 South Coast Hwy. (760) 722-5220
BEACHBREAK CAFÉ 1802 South Coast Hwy. (760) 439-6355 beachbreakcafe.net
THE BROKEN YOLK CAFE 2434 Vista Way (760) 967-9655
THE BREAKFAST MUG
1401 South El Camino Real (760) 231-1010
BUCCANEER CAFÉ 1508 South Pacific Street (760) 966-1804
COME ON OVER CAFÉ 2405 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 201-3393
DON’S COUNTRY KITCHEN 1938 South Coast Hwy (760) 722-7337
ELENA'S CAFE FRENCH CREPES
511 Pier View Way (240) 644-3205
GRANDMA’S RESTAURANT
3613 Ocean Ranch Blvd (760) 757-8777
HARBOR HOUSE CAFÉ
714 North Coast Hwy (760) 722-2254
HIGH/LOW
201 North Myers Street (760) 512-3329
KAHLO CAFE
2035 Mission Ave (619) 519-2239
KETTLE ON COAST
223 N Coast Hwy (760) 231-7300
MARY’S FAMILY RESTAURANT
307 North Coast Hwy. (760) 722-3052
PIPER
105 Mission Avenue (760) 512-3816
START FRESH CAFÉ
1034 South Coast Hwy. (760) 439-7940
STRATFORD AT THE HARBOR
280 South Harbor Drive (760) 453-2073
SWAMI’S CAFÉ
202 North Coast Hwy. (760) 966-1203
TOASTED GASTROBRUNCH
339 North Cleveland Street (760) 836-0500
BREWERIES/TAP ROOMS
ARTIFEX BREWING
940 S Freeman, Ste 102 (760) 231-8377
BELCHING BEAVER BREWERY
1334 Rocky Point Drive (760) 599-5832
BOOZE BROTHERS BREWERY
606 Mission Ave. (760) 385-3973
CRAFT COAST BREWING
275 Mission Ave. (760) 231-1432
KILOWATT BREWING OCEANSIDE TAPROOM & PROVISIONS
406 Mission Ave. (760) 231-1997
GREEN CHEEK
601 S Coast Hwy (442) 266-8171
HILL STREET BREWING
2002 S Coast Hwy (442) 266-8227
OCEANSIDE BREWING COMPANY
312-314 Via Del Norte (760) 453-7900
POUR HOUSE
1903 South Coast Hwy. (760) 730-5944
SOUTH O BREWING COMPANY
1575 South Coast Hwy. (442) 266-8244
STONE COMPANY STORE
310 North Tremont Street (760) 529-0002
TAP THAT
3207 Roymar Road Suite E (760) 433-4827
TIPPING PINT BREWING
3229 Roymar Road (760) 586-2898
BURGERS
ANGELO’S BURGERS
621 North Coast Hwy. (760) 757-5161
2035 South Coast Hwy. (760) 757-4064
COSMOS BURGER
208 North Coast Highway (760) 607-7083
EAT CRISPY BURGER
207 N Coast Hwy
THE HABIT BURGER GRILL
2267 South El Camino Real (760) 433-3390
1870 Rancho Del Oro Road (760) 400-7878
PAUL’S PLACE
3671 Mission Ave. (760) 721-0124
PIT STOP DINER
3825 Mission Ave. (760) 901-4299
TANNER’S PRIME BURGERS
510 Vista Way
CHICKEN SHOP
ANGRY CHICKZ
612 Mission Ave (442) 266-2167
DAVE'S HOT CHICKEN
4201 Oceanside Blvd Ste A (442) 291-1830
KRISPY KRUNCHY CHICKEN
102 N Coast Hwy (760) 722-4471
MAIN CHICK HOT CHICKEN
1006 Mission Ave, Ste D (442) 273-8060
ROOSTR YARD
1810 Rancho Del Oro Rd (760) 696-3178
CHINESE
24 SUNS
3375 Mission Ave. (760) 433-5086
CHIN’S SZECHWAN CUISINE
4140 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 631-4808
CHINA FUSION
4225 Oceanside Blvd (760) 726-8888
2530 Vista Way, Ste J (760) 283-8888
GREAT WOK OF CHINA
4635 Frazee Road (760) 439-8939
JOYEE DUMPLING HOUSE
3460 Marron Rd. #107 (442) 266-8416
QUIK WOK
2184 Vista Way (760) 439-2228
COFFEE/TEA/JUICE
ACAI REPUBLIC OCEANSIDE
125 S Coast Hwy
ALOHANA ACAI & COFFEE
1810 Rancho Del Oro Rd, Ste 110 (760) 421-7175
BANANA DANG
115 South Coast Hwy. (760) 846-0162
BETTER BUZZ
1050 South Coast Hwy (442) 325-9129
1004 Mission Avenue (442) 372-7232
BLACK ROCK COFFEE BAR 1918 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 722-7133
BLUE BOWL SUPERFOODS
1940 S Freeman St, Ste 103 (657) 281-9089
BOUND COFFEE COMPANY
2110 S Coast Hwy Suite C (442) 266-2259
BROWN CUP
401 North Coast Hwy. (760) 231-7968
CAMP COFFEE COMPANY
101 N Cleveland Street (442) 266-2504
CAPTAIN’S GROUNDS COFFEE
1832 South Coast Hwy. (760) 522-4271
COATL COFFEE
105 Copperwood Way Ste. B (833) 332-6285
COMMUNAL
602 South Tremont St. (619) 376-5710
THE CUP
206 Wisconsin Ave. (760) 231-9817
EVERBOWL
2535 Vista Way (760) 754-1572
JB JUICE & COFFEE
4635 Frazee Road (760) 529-0807
JITTERS COFFEE PUB
510 North Coast Hwy. (760) 967-7886
LOLLICUP
4121 Oceanside Blvd. (760) 295-0824
NAUTICAL BEAN COFFEE CO.
240 Harbor Drive South (760) 722-4851
O'SIDE STRAND CAFE
206 The Strand S
PANNIKIN COFFEE & TEA
322 N Cleveland St
PIER VIEW COFFEE COMPANY
300 Pier View Way (760) 966-1150
PLANTOLOGY CAFE
913 South Coast Hwy. (760) 805-3258
TIERRA MIA COFFEE 1420 Mission Ave (619) 694-5220
TZONE
318 Pier View Way (760) 299-5678
REVOLUTION ROASTERS 1836 South Coast Hwy. (760) 529-9736
SUCCULENT CAFE
306 N Tremont St (760) 519-7163
DELI/SANDWICHES
101 BAGELS & SUBS
323 North Coast Hwy. (760) 421-6555
BEACH HUT DELI
280 Mission Ave. (760) 529-9767
BOARD & BREW
2213 S El Camino Real (760) 688-9217
THE CHEESESTEAK GRILL 1771 South Oceanside Blvd. (760) 529-0077
CREAM OF THE CROP
2009 South Coast Hwy. (760) 433-2757
creamofthecropnatural.com
HARBOR PELICAN 1380 North Pacific Street (760) 722-5853
I LOVE BAGELS CAFE 3910 Vista Way (760) 945-3838
JERSEY MIKE'S
302 Mission Ave (760) 435-0783
125 Old Grove Rd (760) 231-1602
SUBMARINA 3809 Plaza Drive (760) 945-7840
CALI RAY'S SOURDOUGH
1870 Rancho Del Oro Road (760) 696-3059
Z-MARKET
3200 Mission Ave. (760) 967-2184
FILIPINO
MISSION ASIAN MARKET 3320 Mission Ave. (760) 722-8024
THE PRIVATEER MARKETPLACE & WINE BAR 1704 South Coast Hwy. (760) 453-2254 privateer-marketplace.com
SECCO
301 Pier View Way (442) 266-2011
HI, I’M AGGIE CARPENTER
I’m a REALTOR® with Compass, and for more than 20 years I have specialized in Oceanside real estate.
I don’t just follow this market— I live here, I know the neighborhoods, and I believe deeply in our community.
From coastal homes and established neighborhoods to emerging opportunities, I help buyers and sellers make smart, confident decisions backed by experience, strategy, and local insight.
My clients choose me because I combine:
• Proven results
• Top market performance
• Honest guidance and personal service
Nobody knows Oceanside real estate like I do—and I’m proud to call it home.
