Coronado Times

2025 Preservation Symposium: Historic Places with Elsa Sevilla
2025-05-15 17:30 - 19:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | 1000 Orange Ave, 1000 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
May is National Preservation Month, and Coronado is joining communities nationwide in celebrating our unique heritage! We’re fortunate to have so many meaningful historic places, and we’ll be highlighting them throughout the month. Our celebrations include a City Council Proclamation, the presentation of plaques to recently designated historic homes, and the beloved Historic Home Tour on Mother’s Day, May 11.
The celebrations will culminate in the annual Preservation Symposium on Thursday, May 15 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. The program will include a reception starting at 5:30 pm followed by the presentations at 6 pm.
Join Coronado MainStreet, the Historical Association, and the City of Coronado for the Preservation Symposium sponsored by the Coronado Community Foundation as we champion preservation in our community. This year’s speakers include a City Planner who will outline the City’s approach to historic preservation, as well as keynote speaker Elsa Sevilla, host of KPBS’s Historic Places. Elsa will share how she approaches her work incorporating history into entertaining media. In the latest from the series, Elsa steps inside the legendary Hotel del Coronado, a National Historic Monument, as it undergoes a stunning transformation. Discover the secrets, craftsmanship, and untold stories behind the restoration of this iconic landmark. From its Victorian grandeur to modern-day elegance, witness history come back to life as Elsa talks about making this captivating series of Historic Places!
Tickets are available now

RELATED:
KPBS’ Historic Places with Elsa Sevilla Showcases the Hotel del Coronado’s Restoration in an Exclusive Three-Part Series

CoSA Dance and Digital Arts Bring “Envision” to the Stage
2025-05-16 19:00, 2025-05-17 19:00 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Have you ever wondered how a choreographer brings an idea to life in movement? The Coronado School of the Arts (CoSA) Dance Conservatory, in partnership with the Digital Arts Conservatory, will showcase Envision–an exciting evening of dance and filmmaking at the Coronado Performing Arts Center on Friday, May 16 and Saturday May 17 at 7pm.
Tickets are on sale at CoSASanDiego.com and at this link.
The evening of original dances offers a behind-the-scenes peek of our dancemakers and their creative processes by CoSA Digital Arts Film students. The event also features solo performances from the five graduating seniors.
“In Envision, CoSA Dance invites audiences to peek behind the curtain and witness how dances are made from concept to concert,” said Gina Bolles Sorensen, conservatory chair. Three filmmakers have stepped into the studio to witness CoSA dancemakers in the creative process, according to Sorensen. The event features documentary films threaded throughout the program to share insights about how dances are made, complete with interviews with the choreographers and footage of the rehearsal process. One highlight in the program is ‘The Point of Vanishing,’ a nine-minute dance for the full ensemble, directed by Sorensen.
“The thing about dance is that it’s here and gone,” said Sorensen. “A dance is never performed or seen the same way twice. We work in an artform that is always in a state of vanishing.”
In addition to dances by seven CoSA Dance faculty, the program features dances by eleven student choreographers.

Coronado Woman’s Club Garage Sale - Donate on Friday, Shop on Saturday
2025-05-17 08:00 - 11:00 | 801 Adella Avenue, 801 Adella Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Coronado Woman’s Club (CWC) invites the community to donate to, and shop at, its garage sale on Saturday, May 17.
CWC President Kathy Fink said, “The garage sale kicks off our fundraising for the 2025-26 fiscal year. As an all-volunteer nonprofit, proceeds will help us towards our goal to match or exceed our $20,000 return to our community this year.”
CWC welcomes your donations too! If you have items to donate, please drop off household and children’s items, sports equipment (no clothing, please) on Friday, May 16 from 4 to 6 pm at 801 Adella Avenue, where the event will be held the next morning (8 to 11 am).
The club meets monthly from October through June. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, June 4 at Stake Chophouse on Orange Avenue. All welcome. If you are interested in CWC work or would like to join the June meeting, please contact Ana Magdaleno at 619-756-9583 or send a message through the club’s website, www.coronadowomansclub.org.

Avenue of Heroes Recognition Ceremony
2025-05-17 10:00 - 12:00 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The City of Coronado and the Avenue of Heroes Committee invite the community to attend a special ceremony to honor the 20th group of Hometown Heroes on Saturday, May 17, at 10:30 am at the Coronado High School Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue. Light refreshments will be provided. Complimentary golf cart shuttles will be available for attendees.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Avenue of Heroes program, which has recognized nearly 300 veterans and active-duty service members since its launch in 2014. The milestone ceremony will celebrate 16 new honorees – past or present residents of Coronado – who have honorably served their country.
Banners honoring the newest inductees will be displayed along Coronado’s “Avenue of Heroes,” the designated stretch of Third and Fourth streets from Orange Avenue to Naval Air Station North Island, from May through November.
The Avenue of Heroes is a military service recognition program sponsored by the City of Coronado and the Avenue of Heroes Committee. The program was established in 2014 through a partnership between the City, VFW Post 2422, the Third and Fourth Streets Neighborhood Association, and the Coronado Historical Association.

Frog and Toad Children's Tea
2025-05-17 14:00 - 15:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Frog and Toad extend an invitation to the Coronado Public Library’s annual Children’s Tea! Enjoy an afternoon with lunch, surprises, and a photo booth at the library. Families of all shapes and sizes are welcome to enjoy the swampy snacks.
*Please register each child and adult SEPERATELY. This ensures a proper count and enough seating. Writing in the notes you have additional guests besides yourself may result in not having enough seats.

Alice: Illustrating Wonderland Opening Reception
2025-05-18 14:00 - 16:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Celebrating 160 Years of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

Step into a world of imagination at the opening exhibit of Alice: Illustrating Wonderland! Join us as we celebrate 160 years of Lewis Carroll’s timeless tale with a stunning collection of 160 uniquely illustrated editions of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Meet talented artists from our Wonderland Art Contest, enjoy light refreshments, and let whimsical music guide you down the rabbit hole. A magical afternoon for dreamers of all ages!

The BlueFrog Band
2025-05-18 14:00 - 17:00 | Coronado Ferry Landing, 1201 First Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The BlueFrog Band will be playing at the Coronado Ferry Landing from 2 to 5 pm on Sunday, May 18.
BlueFrog combines Jump Swing Blues, Rock and Roll, Southern Fried Favorites, Funk, Honky-Tonk, and originals to make your feet and ears happy.
Patrick “BlueFrog” Ellis is a retired SEAL Master Chief who has been entertaining Coronado residents since 2011. He also toured for the U.S.O. while Stationed in South Korea as the Command Master Chief for Special Operations Command before returning home to retire after more than 33 years of military service.
His Motto: It’s not about me, it’s about the music!

www.TheBlueFrogBand.com
instagram.com/bluefrog71

Bridge & Bay Garden Club Lei Making Demonstration
2025-05-19 09:00 - 11:00 | Winn Room, Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Bridge & Bay Garden Club will meet and host a lei making demonstration on Monday, May 19 from 9 to 11 am in the Winn Room at the Coronado Public Library.

"Murder of the Jujube Candy Heiress: A Coronado Cold Case" - Virtual Book Talk
2025-05-19 17:00 - 18:00
One candy heiress, two bullets, and three suspects.
Coronado rarely makes news for violent crime. But in the spring of 1975, World War II widow and retired librarian Ruth Quinn was murdered, execution-style, in her cottage. Her death sent a shock wave through the community. The granddaughter of Jujubes and Jujyfruits creator Henry Heide, Ruth was found fully clothed with her shoes on, in her bed, dead from two gunshot wounds. To this day, her murder has never been solved, but whispers about her brother, her son, and even a local petty thief still swirl.
The Coronado Historical Association is proud to host Coronado author Taylor Baldwin Kiland as she sifts through the dirt for the facts about Ruth’s life and her untimely end fifty years ago. This event will take place virtually over Zoom on May 19 at 5 p.m. Pacific / 8 p.m. Eastern.
RSVP HERE
RELATED
Candy, Coronado, and a 50-Year-Old Cold Case

San Diego Scam Jam Tour: Protect Yourself from Fraud
2025-05-20 14:00 - 15:00 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Have you ever been targeted by a scam or worried about identity theft? Join the San Diego Scam Jam in Coronado on May 20 from 2 to 3 pm at the John D. Spreckels Center for an eye-opening session on how to recognize and avoid fraud.

Presented by an expert from the County of San Diego Scam and Fraud Education Support Team, this free event will cover common scams, warning signs to watch for, and practical tips to protect yourself and your loved ones. Whether you’ve experienced fraud firsthand or just want to stay informed, this workshop is a valuable opportunity to boost your defenses.
Stay informed, stay safe, and help stop scams in our community!
Sign up online at www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the front desk at 1019 Seventh St. for more information.

Spring Bike Rodeo - Training to Emphasize Bike Safety
2025-05-20 15:15 - 16:15 | Silver Strand Elementary School, 1350 Leyte Road, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The City is co-hosting three bicycle safety clinics, known as Bike Rodeos, this May. While all students are encouraged to attend, there will be a special focus on e-bike safety.
The City, Coronado Unified School District, and the San Diego County Bicycle Coalition invite students and parents to join one of the three Bike Rodeos to learn about the rules of the road, register bikes, and participate in raffle contests.
Event Dates:

Wednesday, May 7 at 2 pm – Coronado Middle School
Tuesday, May 13 at 3:15 pm – Village Elementary School
Tuesday, May 20 at 3:15 pm – Strand Elementary

All bikes, e-bikes, scooters, and skateboards are welcome!

Meet Mac Barnett, National Ambassador for Young People's Literature
2025-05-20 15:30 - 17:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Coronado Library is thrilled to announce that children’s author Mac Barnett (Triangle, Sam and Dave Dig a Hole, Mac Undercover), will appear in person on Tuesday, May 20.
Starting at 3:30 pm, Mac will be at the library to meet fans and sign books. At 4 pm, he will share picture book favorites and showcase the deeply impactful ways picture books blend words and illustrations, and even the turning of a page, to create a uniquely powerful reading experience. Mac will share his passion for picture books and invite children and adults alike to join him in celebrating what’s vibrant, joyful and inspiring about this quintessential – and highly participatory – American art form at this all-ages and family-friendly event.
Each year, Barnett will visit only five locations as National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. Coronado was selected out of 350 applicants for this honor and is his only site visit this school year and the very first one of his tour! The Coronado Library was selected with the Coronado Unified School District as one of five libraries in the country that Mac would appear at in this role. As the only library West of the Rio Grande that was chosen, we are thrilled to host Mac’s public appearance in Coronado for this tour. This visit is made possible thanks to the Library of Congress and Every Child a Reader.
Registration is encouraged for this event. Please register each person attending. Reserved seats will be held until 3:30 pm after which any open spots will be given to standby seating.

Award-winning author Mac Barnett is excited to share his passion for picture books with children and adults. The tradition of the picture book is a tradition of experimentation, just like childhood itself. Every page turn contains infinite possibilities – a journey of discovery and connections. After all, picture books blend words and illustrations to create a uniquely powerful reading experience, one that is often the foundation for a lifetime of reading. On his nationwide tour as national ambassador, Mac invites readers of all ages to join him in celebrating what’s vibrant, joyful and inspiring about this quintessential American art form.
“Children deserve entertaining stories and meaningful art! I am, of course, excited to talk to young readers. But I’m also eager to speak to adults – who often underestimate or overlook children’s literature – to champion the power of picture books and the brilliance of the kids who read them.” – Mac Barnett, National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature
In partnership with the Library of Congress and Every Child a Reader, the National Ambassador is an advocate for reading across the country. Learn more about the National Ambassador and Behold! The Picture Book on the Library of Congress’ website: https://guides.loc.gov/mac-barnett.

About Mac Barnett
Mac Barnett, a New York Times–bestselling author of stories for children, is the ninth National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature. His work has been translated into more than 30 languages and sold more than 5 million copies worldwide. Barnett’s books have won many prizes, including two Caldecott Honors, three New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Awards, three E.B. White Read Aloud Awards, the Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, Germany’s Jugendliteraturpreis, China’s Chen Bochui International Children’s Literature Award, The Netherlands’ Silver Griffel, and Italy’s Premio Orbil. He is the co-creator, with Jon Klassen, of “Shape Island,” a stop-motion animated series on Apple TV+, based on their best-selling Shapes series of picture books. Barnett lives in Oakland, California.
About the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature
The National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature is an initiative of the Library of Congress, in partnership with Every Child a Reader, with generous support from The Library of Congress James Madison Council. The program was established in 2008 by the Library, the Children’s Book Council and Every Child a Reader to emphasize the importance of young people’s literature as it relates to lifelong literacy, education and the development and betterment of the lives of young people.

CIFF Student Classic Film Series "The Best Years of Our Lives"
2025-05-21 13:00 - 16:30 | Winn Room, Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The Best Years of Our Lives – “I don’t care if the film doesn’t make a nickel. I just want every man, woman, and child in America to see it.”
This is a special Memorial Day screening. It is FREE and open to the entire community. Bring the entire family!
“I don’t care if the film doesn’t make a nickel. I just want every man, woman, and child in America to see it.” Thus spoke MGM Studio head Samuel Goldwyn in 1946 as this masterpiece he produced was released. This first post-war feature film from legendary director William Wyler went on to win a then unprecedented seven Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director. It was honored with an additional special Oscar for disabled vet Harold Russell’s performance as Petty Officer Home Parish for ”bringing aid and comfort to disabled veterans through the medium of motion pictures.”
After the attack on Pearl Harbor, even though Oscar winning director William Wyler was 40 years old and exempt from the draft, he volunteered and served with distinction in the US Army Air Forces. Discharged as a LtCol in 1945, Wyler’s time with the 8th Air Force left him permanently hearing impaired and uncertain of his prospects to return to his career directing movies in Hollywood. Of his wartime experience Wyler observed, “The only thing that mattered was human relationships … relationships with people who might be dead tomorrow were important.” Returning home to Los Angeles, he searched for the right story to tell in his return to the director’s chair. After Wyler read McKinlay Kantor’s Glory for Me, a story of challenges faced by war veterans coming home, he told MGM Studio Boss Sam Goldwyn, “This is what I want to make.”
The Best Years of Our Lives tells the story of veterans returning from war more movingly, hopefully and beautifully than any other motion picture in Hollywood history. The film captured the atmosphere of post-WWII America. Its enormous critical and commercial success confirmed this was THE story post-war audiences needed to see in the wake of the deadliest and most destructive conflict in human history; the story of the war’s impact on returning veterans and its impact on their relationship with home and family.
Do not miss this perfect Memorial Day “table setter.” CIFF’s FREE screening of The Best Years of Our Lives will be presented Sunday, May 25 at 1 pm in the Library’s Winn Room. Bring your family and invite your friends to share this beautiful Oscar winning classic.

Day Trip Adventure: San Diego Animal Sanctuary & Farm
2025-05-22 09:00 - 15:00
Embark on a heartwarming adventure to the San Diego Animal Sanctuary & Farm, nestled in the charming town of Alpine. Home to over 210 rescued and adopted animals, this picturesque sanctuary invites you to connect with a wide variety of animals—pet them, feed them, and enjoy unforgettable moments surrounded by nature.
Enjoy a peaceful picnic under the shady oak trees—bring your own lunch or treat yourself to delicious options available for purchase on-site. To stay comfortable throughout the day, don’t forget your hat, sunscreen, and bottled water.
Space is limited, so reserve your spot today! For more information or to register, visit coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center front desk at 1019 Seventh Street.
Hosted by the John D. Spreckels Center
Pick-up & Drop-off Location: 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado
https://sandiegoanimalsanctuaryandfarm.org/

Second Annual Catch the Wellness Wave, Mental Health & Wellness Fair
2025-05-22 15:00 - 18:00 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
To celebrate May Mental Wellness Month, Safe Harbor Coronado is hosting its second annual Mental Health & Wellness Fair, a free, half-day event open to the entire community. Catch the Wellness Wave will be held on Thursday, May 22 from 3 to 6 pm at the John D. Spreckels Center. The event is for all ages, with a plethora of mindfulness activities, educational opportunities, and presentations.
The goals of the event:

Help our community to be stronger, healthier, and prepared to better access a multitude of ways to feel their best.
Share resources, strategies, classes, and information that helps improve mental and physical health.
Provide a springboard to help improve mental health through awareness, prevention, and intervention in May and beyond.
Encourage the community to connect and come together around all aspects of health which directly impacts mental health.

DigArts Extravaganza
2025-05-22 17:00 - 19:30 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Roll out the red carpet! The Coronado School of the Arts (CoSA) Digital Arts Conservatory will host this year’s awards show, the Digital Arts Extravaganza, on Thursday, May 22 from 5 to 7:30 pm at the Coronado Performing Arts Center at 650 D Avenue. This exciting and interactive show features student work in photography, graphic design, film and animation. Not only are guests treated to amazing works of digital art, but they get to vote for “Viewer’s Choice” in several categories.
This year’s red carpet event features an artist’s reception, galleries for still artwork, and film festivals from animators and filmmakers. There will be live voting for best of show as well as an awards presentation.
“This is our end-of-the-year celebration, and it’s a culminating event where our level four students share their final capstone projects,” said Michelle Evenson, film and design teacher. “Students work for several weeks to create personal legacy projects to showcase at the Extravaganza.”
The event is almost entirely student-produced. The students created all the live voting forms, the gallery cards, and they also emcee the event.
The artist’s reception will open at 5 pm in the theatre lobby and will feature the works of photography, graphic design, and game design students. The film and animation screenings will begin promptly at 5:30 pm in the main theatre and conclude at 7:30 pm.
Get tickets at CoSASanDiego.com or at this link.

An Evening with Author Carl Hiaasen
2025-05-22 19:00 - 20:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Join us for an unforgettable evening with bestselling author Carl Hiaasen as he discusses his latest wild ride with Dean Nelson, Fever Beach. In true Carl Hiaasen fashion, the book kicks off with a rainy-day hitchhiker pickup and spirals into a hilarious, razor-sharp romp through Florida’s most absurd corners. It’s a wild ride through greed, extremism, and botched schemes in the Sunshine State.
Hear Hiaasen speak about the inspiration behind the novel, his take on Florida’s strange and sensational underbelly, and more, at one his first events for his latest book. A Q&A and book signing will follow the talk.
This event is free and open to the public. Seating is first-come, first-served, subject to availability. Limited preferred seating is available with purchase of Fever Beach through Warwick’s bookstore. Please visit warwicks.com/event/hiaasen-2025 or call the store at 858-454-0347 for more information.

Classy Golf Classic: Golf of Ages
2025-05-23 10:30 | Coronado Municipal Golf Course, 2000 Visalia Row, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Courtesy photo. Credit: www.ederphoto.com
Mark your calendars! The 32nd Annual Classy Golf Classic will be held on Friday, May 23 at the Coronado Golf Course.
This year’s theme is “Golf of Ages,” and participants will be encouraged to outfit their team in the attire of their favorite era. If you golf “purist” and the ghost of Old Tom Morris haunts your garage, pull out the heavy wool pants and tweed jacket. If Bobby Jones is your hero, slip into some nifty plus fours and a sharp tie. And if you love the ’70s, the groovier the outfit the better. It’s going to be an incredible day of golf, food and frivolity; all in support of Cancer for College.
Courtesy photo. Credit: www.ederphoto.com
Golf is sold out, but sponsorships and afterparty tickets are still available. We hope to see you all out on the course.
Cancer for College is a nonprofit foundation that hopes to restore cancer survivors’ bright futures through need-based scholarships, medical debt relief and educational experiences.
This is one of the foundation’s biggest events and has helped raise over seven million dollars in scholarships since 1993.
Courtesy photo. Credit: www.ederphoto.com

Courtesy photo. Credit: www.ederphoto.com

Coronado Aquatics Center Free Water Safety Event
2025-05-23 15:00 - 17:00 | Coronado Community Center, 1845 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
May is National Drowning Prevention Month, and the City of Coronado is proud to support water safety awareness throughout the community. On May 6, the City Council officially proclaimed May 2025 as National Drowning Prevention Month in Coronado, reinforcing our commitment to helping families stay safe in and around water.
To continue promoting water safety, the Coronado Aquatics Center will host a free Water Safety Event on Friday, May 23, from 3 to 5 p.m. Families are encouraged to pre-register to participate in free swim lessons offered during the event. As a bonus, anyone who registers and takes part in a swim lesson that day will receive a 10% coupon toward a future swim lesson.
Join us in supporting water safety this May and help build a safer, more informed community—one swimmer at a time. For more information or to register, visit www.coronado.ca.us/register

Casting Call for "Best in Bowl"
2025-05-24 12:00 - 14:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
If you are looking to act in a mockumentary movie about Coronado’s esteemed lawn bowling competitions – then try out for a part in the original short film Best in Bowl on Saturday, May 24 from 12 noon to 2 pm in the Ruby Room at the Coronado Public Library.
Actors of all backgrounds, abilities, and ages, from teens to senior citizens, are needed for a variety of roles in this comedic take on the sport.
Currently filming on location in Coronado, the film is a collaborative effort between local filmmakers under the direction of Emmy Award winning producer, writer, and director, Tony Perri.
The movie is being produced and directed in the style of renowned filmmaker Christopher Guest (Best in Show, This is Spinal Tap) and will be submitted to film festivals across the country, including this year’s Coronado Island Film Festival.
The Coronado Public Library and Coronado Cultural Arts Commission are the executive producers for Best in Bowl.

Concert in the Park: Coronado Concert Band and Side Traxx
2025-05-25 16:30 - 20:00 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States

Coronado Memorial Day Ceremony
2025-05-26 10:00 | Star Park, 1100 Star Park Circle, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The 2025 Coronado Memorial Day Ceremony will be conducted at Star Park in Coronado starting at 1000 on Monday, May 26.
A Marine Bugler plays taps during the Memorial Day Service at Star Park Circle May 27, 2024. (The Coronado Times)

Coronado Honors Those Who Gave All During Memorial Day Service

Magnolia Project Shopping Day for Military Personnel
2025-05-26 12:00 - 16:00 | Magnolia Project, 633 9th Street, Imperial Beach, CA, 91932, United States
The Magnolia Project is hosting a free grocery shopping day for all military personnel: active duty, retired veterans, and their dependents. IDs are required, registration is encouraged at 619-227-7222. One visit per household.

RELATED:
Magnolia Project Helps Ease Food Insecurities

Pickleball Beginner Clinics
2025-05-27 09:00 - 10:30 | Coronado Cays Pickleball Courts, 99 Grand Caribe Isle, Coronado, 92118
Use or create an Impact activities account to register at impactca.clubautomation.com.
Part 1: intro to pickleball with focus on stroke development
Part2: (optional class) stroke development / court positioning / game play

CIFF Classic Film "The Godfather" (1972)
2025-05-28 17:30 - 20:30 | Village Theatre, 820 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Coronado Island Film Festival will bring one of the greatest and most influential movies ever made to the big screen at Coronado’s Village Theatre on Wednesday, May 28. Doors open at 4:45 (early, due to the length of the film) for a complimentary glass of wine, with the feature to start promptly at 5:30. Tickets are $15 and are available now at coronadofilmfest.com.
“The Godfather,” released in 1972, was based on the 1969 bestselling novel written by Mario Puzo, who co-wrote the screenplay with the film’s director, Francis Ford Coppola. Their efforts won the 1973 Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.
It was nominated for eleven Oscars total, winning three. In addition to Best Screenplay, it was named Best Picture and Best Actor for Marlon Brando.
The film’s amazing ensemble cast includes Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan, Richard Castellano, Robert Duvall, Sterling Hayden, John Marley, Richard Conte, and Diane Keaton. Pacino, Caan and Duvall received Supporting Actor nominations, and Coppola was nominated as Best Director. From the start, this movie was resoundingly successful with critics, with audiences, and at the box office.
Francis Ford Coppola was 32 years old and relatively unproven as a director at the time. Paramount Pictures questioned and complained about many of his decisions, worried about budget, the schedule, and Coppola’s unusual directorial style. They even hired another director to observe him on the set. As it turned out, he finished on time, under budget, and the rest is history.
With the very skilled Coppola at the helm, members of the ruthless Mafia Corleone family became the “good guys” to us. We knew them and rooted for them (as opposed to their equally ruthless Five Mafia Family rivals). With this film, the new “gangster genre” of film and television was born and apparently here to stay. There surely would have been no Tony Soprano if Vito Corleone and Family had not come first.
“The Godfather” is a masterpiece. It gets everything right: a gangster flick overflowing with life, rich with emotion, stunning cinematography, spot-on writing, perfect music, and brilliant acting. And, of course, there’s Francis Ford Coppola.
CIFF is pleased to bring a classic film to the big screen in your neighborhood theatre every month, always on the last Wednesday. Mark your calendars now for a hilarious change of pace as we present the beloved comedy, “Moonstruck” on June 25. Tickets for it and the entire lineup are available in advance on our website at coronadofilm.com.

AI Agents for Everyone: How to Use Them and Why They Matter
2025-05-28 18:00 - 19:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
In this engaging and accessible lecture, we’ll explore the growing world of AI agents—what they are, how they work, and how they’re becoming tools in everyday life. From simplifying personal tasks to transforming workplaces, AI agents are no longer reserved for tech experts. Learn how to interact with these intelligent tools, integrate them into your routine, and understand the societal impact they carry. Whether you’re a curious beginner or looking to stay ahead in a tech-driven world, this session will empower you with the knowledge to make AI work for you.
Sheldon Yu is a PhD Candidate at UC San Diego, advised by Professor Julian McAuley. His research focuses on recommender systems and large language models (LLM).

"Fragments of Change" Public Art Mosaic Unveiling
2025-05-29 17:00 | Coronado High School (CHS), 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Coronado High School art students help put the finishing touches on a large-scale mosaic along Sixth Street. The 23 foot tall art piece is titled “Fragments of Change” and represents over ten months of work by CHS students. A public unveiling for the community will take place on Thursday, May 29 at 5pm. L-R: Sarah Alari, Brianna Hoak, Kristin Smith, Sofia Martinez, Edie Alicandri, Skiter Aurelia Chappel (safety consultant), Mia Coronado. Image: CUSD
“Fragments of Change,” a striking new public mosaic designed and created by students at Coronado High School, will be officially unveiled on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at 5 pm at 6th Ave and D Street. The community is invited to attend the celebration.

More details:
Coronado’s Newest Public Art Installation Created by High School Students

Anchored in Courage: A Benefit for Ukraine’s Defenders
2025-05-29 18:30 - 21:30 | Coronado Yacht Club, 1631 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Coronado Yacht Club to Host Fundraising Dinner Honoring Ukraine’s Veterans and Supporters

On Thursday, May 29, Shield of Freedom will host Anchored in Courage at the Coronado Yacht Club, a moving evening of unity, gratitude, and purpose in support of Ukrainian defenders. Shield of Freedom is a nonprofit providing essential aid and life-saving equipment to those defending Ukraine’s sovereignty and freedom.
The event will feature a sunset reception on the marina (6:30–7:30 PM), followed by a dinner program (7:30–9:30 PM) highlighting personal stories from the front lines, live Ukrainian music, a silent auction, and tributes to veterans, volunteers, and donors who have played vital roles in Ukraine’s fight for freedom.
“This event is about honoring courage and dedication — both on the battlefield and in the hearts of those here who support this just cause from across the ocean” said Mira Rubin, President of Shield of Freedom. “We are proud to bring the community together to uplift Ukrainian voices and raise critical funds at a pivotal time in the war.”
Highlights of the evening include:

Guest speakers, including Ukrainian war veteran Andriy Smolensky, who lost both arms and his sight when a mortar shell exploded in front of him when he served in a drone reconnaissance unit on the frontline.
Musical performances by acclaimed Ukrainian artists
A curated silent and live auction
Centerpieces and thank-you cards created in collaboration with Ukrainian schoolchildren
Complimentary beer or wine with dinner; full cash bar available

Ticket Options:

$120 VIP Reception + Dinner (includes early access and keynote interaction)
Various Sponsorship levels available include complimentary tickets)

All proceeds support Shield of Freedom, a grassroots nonprofit with no government grants and a strong track record of delivering frontline aid such as medical gear, night vision, anti-drone equipment, and more. The organization partners with House of Ukraine in Balboa Park for awareness events and engages in weekly advocacy and Ukrainian cultural programming in San Diego and beyond.
The event is open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to reserve seats early as space is limited.
To purchase tickets or make a donation, visit: shieldoffreedom.org/anchored-in-courage
Learn more about Shield of Freedom at: www.shieldoffreedom.org

The Kundert Trio Concert
2025-05-30 13:00 - 14:00 | Winn Room, Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Step into a world of rich, sonorous harmony as the The Kundert Trio —a captivating ensemble of three violas— presents a concert celebrating the lyrical depth and warm resonance of the often-overlooked middle voice of the string family.

About The Kundert Trio:
Lynne Ramsey was First Assistant Principal Viola of the Cleveland Orchestra for 35 years and was the holder of the Charles and Janet Kimball Chair, the first woman to hold that position. Prior to this appointment she was Principal Viola of the St. Paul chamber Orchestra and Principal viola of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra. She was also the 2014 recipient of the Maurice W. Riley Award from the American Viola Society. During her tenure with the SPCO she performed concerti and chamber music with Pinchas Zuckerman in Carnegie hall, the Ravinia Festival as well as on tour in the United States. In 1986 she was the first foreigner to perform the Walton Viola Concerto with the Beijing Central Philharmonic in their new concert hall. She is in demand as a teacher, having taught at the Oberlin conservatory, Duquesne University and presently at the Cleveland Institute of Music. During the summers she teachers and performs regularly in summer festivals including Domaine Forget in Canada, The Chautauqua Institute, Encore for Strings, The Interlochen Intensive Viola Week and the Karen Tuttle Workshop. She formerly taught at the Aspen Music Festival, performed as Principal Viola in the Aspen Festival Orchestra and also performed frequently on their chamber music series. She has won prizes in international competitions including the Lionel Tertis Competition on the Isle of Man, the Bryan Young Artist Competition as well as winning the Juilliard Concerto Competition.
Ms. Ramsey is a graduate of the Juilliard School with a BM and MM in Viola performance. Ms. Ramsey studied with Karen Tuttle and Ramon Scavelli.
Kirsten Docter is associate professor of viola and chamber music at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music. First prize wins at the Primrose International and American String Teachers Association Viola Competitions launched her on a career that includes a 23-year tenure with the Cavani Quartet, concerts on major series and festivals, and numerous appointments as a master class clinician and teacher.
Festival appearances include performances at the Aspen Music Festival, Banff Centre for the Arts, Yale Summer School of Music and Art at Norfolk, and the Seattle Chamber Music Society. She has collaborated with Itzhak Perlman, Jaime Laredo, Alisa Weilerstein, Stephanie Blythe, Nathan Gunn, Alessio Bax, and members of the Cleveland, Juilliard, Takács, Emerson, Borodin, and Amadeus string quartets. Her work can be heard on the Azica, Albany, New World, and Gasparo labels.
Docter formerly served on the chamber music and viola faculty of the Cleveland Institute of Music and the University of Michigan. She has been a jury member of the Primrose International Viola, Fischoff National Chamber Music, and Sphinx competitions. In the summer she serves on the viola faculty of the Perlman Music Program.
A true renaissance spirit, Ellen Craig has built a varied career spanning music, travel, technology, and hospitality. She began as a classical violist, graduating from Oberlin College and Conservatory and earning her master’s degree from Rice University. Her performance career included years with the Toledo Symphony, where she brought depth and elegance to the orchestral stage. With a natural gift for planning and an eye for detail, she transitioned into luxury travel design, crafting bespoke journeys across the world. Her path then led into technology project management, where she coordinated complex digital initiatives. Today, she is the owner of a boutique hotel in Italy, reflecting her family’s 1000-year-old history in the region. There, she offers five-star hospitality in a setting rich with culture and legacy. Each chapter of her career reflects her dedication to beauty, excellence, and connection.
