Thank You Coronado!
Hawaiian dancers, Coronado History and living Spreckels family members were just part of the fun for all those who attended the Coronado Historical Association’s Celebrating Coronado History Gala, at the Hotel Del Coronado on Saturday, February 24th.
The evening kicked off with a special champagne reception for the Spreckels, Polo & Founders members followed by a cocktail hour with the more than 300 guests who attended the event. Silent auction items were hotly contested as conversations and laughter filled the room. Guests were then seated in the iconic Crown Room at the Hotel Del where the Hawaiian theme quickly took center stage with hula dancers and Island music. The living Speckels family members were recognized and the event got into full swing with a speech by CHA President Jane Braun.
Jane highlighted the Coronado Historical Association’s recent achievements and teased the upcoming Capitol Campaign that will kick-off in the coming months. Next up was new Executive Director, Robin MacCartee, who gave a heartfelt speech about the Coronado community and how it is up to all of us to keep our traditions, history and town’s unique culture alive. Robin spoke of the challenges facing the community as housing prices rise and the demographics change.
A vision of the Coronado Historical Association as the new center for the community was outlined, where newcomers and locals could meet, tell stories and learn about each other through a common history. Guests were then encouraged to help fund some of the many incredible programs CHA offers via a live auction and raise the paddle. Sarah Hunsaker, a third grade teacher at Village Elementary, gave an uplifting talk about how important the CHA third grade program is to all the children on the island as it gives them a chance to learn about our unique history. Christine Stokes, Coronado Historical’s Museum Director, gave updates on the new exhibit, Spreckels The Man / The Legacy, now open at the museum, and the continuing effort to collect and archive our many town treasures. The night would not have been complete without the ever-entertaining duo of Nancy Cobb and Gerry MacCartee giving a historical slide show on the life of John D. Spreckels.
All in all, it was an incredible evening that brought in needed money for the Historical Society and a new message of community togetherness.
The event would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of the Gala Committee and its Chair, Becci Rocco. Special thanks go out to all the donors, auction winners and sponsors, with an extra shout out to the Hotel Del Coronado, Park Place Liquor and Deli and Emerald Creek Winery. Mark your calendars for March 2nd of next year as the Coronado Historical Association will celebrate its 50th Anniversary amidst another unforgettable evening at the Del.
