Coronado Times

Coronado Aquatics Center Free Water Safety Event
2025-05-23 15:00 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | 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.

Master Chorale Presents Finale Concert "Mixtape"
2025-05-31 16:00 | Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Avenue, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
After 29 years, the San Diego Master Chorale returns to Coronado for “MIXTAPE: The Ultimate Playlist,” a one-of-a-kind concert on Saturday, May 31, 4 pm at the Coronado Performing Arts Center, 650 D Ave.
Music Director John K. Russell took the unusual step of sending 300 song titles to audience members to choose their favorites from a multitude of genres from around the world: classical, pop, Broadway, hymns, and folk songs, culminating in an unforgettable event of musical favorites. A few of the winners include Yesterday by The Beatles, Shenandoah, selections from Mozart’s Requiem, and Billy Joel’s And So It Goes. Surprises await the audience as they enjoy “write-in requests,” bonus tracks, and a live audience vote for the encore!

Since 1961, the San Diego Master Chorale has presented inspiring and exhilarating performances throughout San Diego County. Featuring 130 of the region’s finest singers, the Chorale performs classical masterworks, new music by contemporary composers, and diverse works under the direction of Russell.
Each year, they reach tens of thousands of listeners, both on stage and off, through live performances across San Diego, including collaborations with the San Diego Symphony and Mainly Mozart Festival, and through broadcasts on San Diego’s NPR station, KPBS. The mission of SD Master Chorale is to connect all people to the joy of professional-caliber live choral music and enrich lives by sharing what we have in common — our voice.
For more information on tickets, visit sdmasterchorale.org.

Plein Air Demonstration by Local Artist Jim Nix
2025-06-01 10:30 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Jim Nix, courtesy photo.
A free Plein Air Demonstration by local artist Jim Nix is to be held on Sunday, June 1 at 10:30 am in Spreckels Park. Jim is a prominent local artist who paints mainly Plein Air or “From Life”-generally outdoors. For those interested in learning his techniques, he will be giving a live demonstration of how he begins a painting – starting with his set up, equipment, selection of subject matter and early sketches. Jim’s medium is oil on canvas.
Jim is a juried member of the Coronado Art in the Park Association and will be in the park selling his paintings alongside other juried Plein Air artists including Mary Hale and Katie Karosich.
Bring your gear and come out and paint with these inspiring artists after Jim’s demo.
These artists are kicking off a first ever local Plein Air show to be held at the Coronado Library August 10 through November 2. An opening party will be Sunday, August 10 from 2 to 4 pm. For further information contact Mary Hale.

Concert in the Park: Laurie Beebe Lewis & The Electric Underground
2025-06-01 18:00 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States

An Evening with Viet Thanh Nguyen
2025-06-04 19:00 - 20:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Join the Coronado Public Library as we welcome Pulitzer Prize winner Viet Thanh Nguyen. He’ll discuss his newest title To Save and To Destroy, a moving, personal meditation on otherness and a call for political solidarity, with Lily Hoang. Originally given as a series of Norton lectures, these captivating essays earned a starred review from Library Journal as ‘[a]n essential addition for collections about the process and theory of writing, authors of diverse backgrounds, and particularly the experiences of Asian Americans, immigrants, and refugees in the United States.”
A book-signing will follow. 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 To Save and To Destroy through Warwick’s bookstore. Please visit https://www.warwicks.com/nguyen-2025-reserved-seat or call the store at 858-454-0347 for more information.

About Viet Thanh Nguyen
Viet Thanh Nguyen is the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Sympathizer, Nothing Ever Dies, and, most recently, To Save and to Destroy. A recipient of the MacArthur Foundation and Guggenheim fellowships and a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, Nguyen is Aerol Arnold Chair of English and Professor of American Studies and Ethnicity at the University of Southern California.
About To Save and To Destroy
Born in war-ravaged Vietnam, Viet Nguyen arrived in the United States as a child refugee in 1975. The Nguyen family would soon move to San Jose, California, where the author grew up, attending UC Berkeley in the aftermath of the shocking murder of Vincent Chin, which shaped the political sensibilities of a new generation of Asian Americans.
The essays here, delivered originally as the prestigious Norton Lectures, proffer a new answer to a classic literary question: What does the outsider mean to literary writing? Over the course of six captivating and moving chapters, Nguyen explores the idea of being an outsider through lenses that are, by turns, literary, historical, political, and familial.
Each piece moves between writers who influenced Nguyen’s craft and weaves in the haunting story of his late mother’s mental illness. Nguyen unfolds the novels and nonfiction of Herman Melville, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ralph Ellison, William Carlos Williams, and Maxine Hong Kingston, until aesthetic theories give way to pressing concerns raised by war and politics. What is a writer’s responsibility in a time of violence? Should we celebrate fiction that gives voice to the voiceless–or do we confront the forces that render millions voiceless in the first place? What are the burdens and pleasures of the “minor” writer in any society? Unsatisfied with the modest inclusion accorded to “model minorities” such as Asian Americans, Nguyen sets the agenda for a more radical and disquieting solidarity with those whose lives have been devastated by imperialism and forever wars.
About Lily Hoang
Lily Hoang is the author of eight books, including most recently A Knock at the Door (Texas Review Press’s Innovative Prose Series), Underneath (winner of the Red Hen Press Fiction Award), A Bestiary (PEN/USA Non-Fiction Award finalist), and Changing (recipient of a PEN/Open Books Award). She is a Professor of Literature at UC San Diego, where she teaches in their MFA in Writing.

Elder Abuse Presentation
2025-06-06 11:30 - 12:30 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
June is World Elder Abuse Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness and take action against a growing issue affecting older adults in our communities. Many people are unaware of just how widespread elder abuse is—or how to recognize and report it. As a result, these harmful acts often go unnoticed and unreported, continuing to rise across San Diego County.
Join us at the John D. Spreckels Center on Friday, June 6 from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm for a free, informative presentation led by the County of San Diego’s Aging & Independence Services. Learn the facts about elder abuse, discover the warning signs to watch and listen for, and find out how you can play a role in preventing it.
This one-hour session is open to all and is especially important for older adults, caregivers, family members, neighbors, and community advocates. By starting the conversation and spreading awareness, we can create a stronger, safer, and more informed community.
To register, please visit ca-coronado.civicrec.com, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center front desk.
Take a stand against elder abuse—because protecting our elders starts with awareness.

Coronado Rally for Veterans
2025-06-06 14:00 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
More than 6 million veterans and their families receive essential support from the Department of Veterans Affairs, including medical care, education programs, and pensions to support them and their families.
On June 6, the 81st anniversary of D-Day, military veterans and their supporters plan to rally in support of veterans’ rights on the National Mall in Washington, DC, and in state capitals across the country.
In Coronado, a group of veterans, family members, and their supporters plan to rally on the same day to defend veterans’ benefits and pay tribute to their sacrifices amidst President Donald Trump’s calls for reforms and downsizing of the VA. The rally will take place beginning at Spreckels Park in Coronado, and then they will march along Orange Avenue to 4th Street.
Organizers and supporters of the event explained how the cuts will impact them in this video:

The rally is in memory of Coronado resident John Pottridge, a twice-wounded Vietnam War veteran who passed away May 17, 2025.
LEARN MORE:
Coronado Veterans & Supporters Will Take to the Streets to Defend Veterans Benefits

Adopt-A-Pet Day -- Fees Waived
2025-06-07 | PAWS of Coronado, 1395 First Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Fees waived at many California shelters, including PAWS of Coronado, on the second annual California Adopt-a-Pet Day.
LEARN MORE:
PAWS of Coronado Waives Adoption Fees on California Adopt-a-Pet Day, Saturday, June 7, 2025

Beach Cleanup
2025-06-07 09:00 - 11:00 | Coronado Central Beach, 600 Ocean Boulevard, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
(The Coronado Times)
Join us Saturday June 7 from 9 to 11 a.m. to help clean up Central Beach. Bring work gloves and buckets and pickers if you have them. Emerald Keepers will have extras on hand. Look for the Emerald Keepers flag near the main lifeguard tower.
Come for all two hours or just part of the time. It’s a great way to start off the day and meet other Emerald Keepers. See you there!

Concert in the Park: Navy Band Southwest, 32nd Street Brass Band
2025-06-08 18:00 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Navy Band Southwest’s
32nd Street Brass Band

Always a fan favorite at Concerts in the Park, Navy Band Southwest’s 32nd Street Brass Band brings premier musical talent and a strong emotional connection to our community’s largest and most visible institution. With over 90 years of service in San Diego, the band is one of the Navy’s and region’s finest and oldest continuing musical organizations.
Under the direction of MU2 Cameron Clements, the Lieutenant New Orleans-style brass band is located onboard Naval Base San Diego, and serves the military and civilian communities throughout the Southwestern United States. The band averages over 600 performances a year including at professional sporting events and community concert series like ours.
Website: Navy Band Southwest’s 32nd Street Brass Band

Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) Dinner
2025-06-09 17:30 | Coronado Yacht Club, 1631 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The MOAA meeting is scheduled for 9 June 2025 at the Coronado Yacht Club. Cocktails will begin at 5:30 pm, followed by dinner and the guest speaker.
Vice Admiral John Wade, Commander U.S. Third Fleet will be the guest speaker.
Commander U.S. Third Fleet Vice Admiral John Wade to Speak at MOAA Meeting

Crafty Hour: Mini Art Paintings
2025-06-10 18:30 - 19:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Feeling crafty? Join us on the second Tuesday of every month for arts and crafts.
In the month of June, we’ll be making our own mini art masterpieces! Participants will have the chance to have their paintings displayed in the library’s mini museum of art.
This program is for adults over the age of 18. Registration is not required but recommended.

Jet Trails & Tall Tales: Vincent “Jell-O” Aiello Discusses "Through the Yellow Visor"
2025-06-11 18:00 - 19:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Join the Coronado Public Library for a high-octane evening with Vincent “Jell-O” Aiello, former TOPGUN instructor, combat pilot, and host of the popular Fighter Pilot Podcast, as he shares stories from his gripping memoir, Through the Yellow Visor.
More than just dogfights and flybys, Aiello’s book offers an unfiltered look into the real world of naval aviation — where grit, resilience, and teamwork matter more than ego. From flight school challenges to combat missions over Iraq, his journey reveals the human side of life at Mach speed.
Don’t miss this chance to meet the man behind the mic, hear what it’s really like to land on a moving aircraft carrier, and get a signed copy of the book that podcast fans have been waiting for.

About the Book:
Ride Along with a Real Top Gun and Get His View from the Cockpit
You’ve heard him as host of the Fighter Pilot Podcast. More than 100k listeners have been waiting for this book.
Now ride along. From the cockpit of a Navy jet circling overhead, an aircraft carrier — 1,000 feet long and displacing 98,000 tons — looks no bigger than a child’s toy. No wonder the fighter pilots call it a boat. Try landing on one of these bucking broncos without boltering.
TOPGUN instructor and seasoned naval aviator, E. Vincent “Jell-O” Aiello takes readers on an exhilarating flight from being a wide-eyed eight-year-old peering into a jet’s cockpit at the Point Mugu Airshow to flying one. Not the Hollywood version by any means, Vincent explains his tough, terrifying, and trusted path to flying America’s war planes.
From flying F/A-18 Hornets on missions worldwide, to serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, to teaching the art of air combat at TOPGUN, Jell-O brings you into the adrenaline-fueled world of naval aviation while proving that persistence is a pilot’s most valuable skill.
After retiring from the Navy with more than 3,800 flight hours and 700 carrier landings, Vincent, now an airline pilot, hosts the popular Fighter Pilot Podcast, where he explores the fascinating world of air combat with stimulating revelations about:

The complex, multi-million-dollar aircraft,
The lethal weapons systems they employ, and
The fearless people who protect our country every single day.

This is the personal story of a boy with big dreams who became the man behind the yellow visor.
About the Author:
Commander Aiello is native of California. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics from the University of California, Los Angeles and was commissioned through the Navy ROTC Program in August 1992. Commander Aiello attended Navy pilot training and was awarded the coveted wings of gold in August 1995. Following initial training in the F/A-18 Hornet with VMFAT-101 at MCAS El Toro, Santa Ana, California, Commander Aiello’s first operational assignment was with VFA86 at NAS Cecil Field in Jacksonville, Florida. During this tour he deployed to the Arabian Gulf in support of Operation SOUTHERN WATCH aboard the aircraft carriers USS GEORGE WASHINGTON and USS JOHN F. KENNEDY.
In 2000, Commander Aiello reported to the Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center at NAS Fallon, Nevada where he attended the Navy Fighter Weapons School, or TOPGUN, and remained on the staff as an instructor. In 2003 he was assigned to VFA97 in NAS Lemoore, California where he deployed to the Arabian Gulf aboard the carrier USS NIMITZ in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. In 2004 Commander Aiello attended the School of Naval Aviation Safety at the Naval Postgraduate School before reporting to VFA-94 in Lemoore for his department head tour. In 2005 he again deployed aboard NIMITZ to the Western Pacific and Arabian Gulf in support of OIF.
Commander Aiello reported to the Strike Fighter Weapons School, Pacific at Lemoore in 2006 and remained until 2009 when he was assigned to the staff of Carrier Air Wing FIVE in NAF Atsugi, Japan where he deployed to the Western Pacific aboard GEORGE WASHINGTON. Commander Aiello’s next assignment came in 2010 to the staff of Commander, U.S. THIRD Fleet, San Diego, California where he deployed to Afghanistan as an ‘individual augmentee’ with a Joint Special Operations Command task force in support of Operation ALLIED FORCE. During this assignment Commander Aiello completed a Masters of Business Administration degree from the Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colorado.
In 2013 Commander Aiello returned to NSAWC in Fallon where he served as Program Manager for the Navy’s F-16 adversary fleet. In 2015 Commander Aiello reported to the Fleet Readiness Center Southwest at NAS North Island, California where he served as the F/A-18 Integrated Project Team Military Program Manager and F/A18A-F Hornet and Super Hornet functional check pilot.
Commander Aiello retired from the US Navy in March 2017 following nearly 25 years of faithful and honorable service. He accrued 3,800 total flight hours including 3,200 in all models of the F/A-18 and nearly 200 in the F-16A/B. He has flown more than 70 combat missions over Iraq and performed over 700 carrier-arrested landings. His decorations include two Meritorious Service Medals, three Air Medals, four Navy Commendation Medals, and numerous personal and unit decorations.
Commander Aiello is married to the former Beth Grimm of Rogers, Arkansas; they reside in Coronado with their three sons: Slater, Anthony, and Dawson.

Flag Day Concert Featuring Navy Band Southwest
2025-06-13 13:00 - 14:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Celebrate the spirit of Old Glory a day early with an uplifting afternoon of music as the Coronado Public Library proudly hosts the Woodwind Quartet of Navy Band Southwest on Friday, June 13.
Settle into the Winn Room and let these accomplished Navy musicians fill the air with patriotic favorites and summertime classics — perfect for tapping toes, stirring memories, and honoring those who have served. The concert is free, fully accessible, and specially timed so our community’s seniors and veterans can enjoy a relaxing, air-conditioned getaway while connecting with neighbors and fellow patriots.
Bring a friend, wear your red-white-and-blue, and help us strike up the band as we salute Flag Day together!

Walk with a Doc
2025-06-14 08:00 - 09:00 | Glorietta Bay Park, 1975 Strand Way, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Dr. Gina Casian, Board Certified Internal Medicine physician and Coronado resident, is passionate about protecting and improving good health and well-being, and as such is bringing this free health-promoting program to Coronado.

The walking program is a fun and safe place to take a walk (at your own pace), learn health tips from local healthcare professionals, and meet new people. The event is free and all are welcome.
Meet at the fountain, “Sea Passage” next to the Coronado Community Center, 1835 Strand Way, for a walk along Glorietta Bay Park Promenade.

Concert in the Park: Ron's Garage
2025-06-15 18:00 | Spreckels Park, 601 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Photo: RonsGarageBand.net
Ron’s Garage is San Diego’s go-to band for classic rock with a twist of soul. Featuring powerhouse musicians with decades of experience, this group brings an electrifying mix of timeless hits and unique musical chemistry to every stage they grace.
Founded by Ron Wheeler in the early ’90s, the band has evolved into a dynamic ensemble of top-notch talent, including Claudio Martin’s masterful guitar work, Gary Taylor’s unmatched drumming, and Phil Lean’s rock-solid bass grooves.
Whether setting the perfect vibe for a laid-back evening or turning up the energy for a show-stopping night, Ron’s Garage delivers unforgettable performances every time. Rock on with Ron’s Garage!

Dog Days of Summer, Dog Run Educational Event at Cays Park
2025-06-18 15:00 - 16:00 | Coronado Cays Dog Park, 99 Grand Caribe Isle, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The City of Coronado has recently installed new signage at Cays Park to clearly define the Dog Run boundaries. To celebrate, the city, in partnership with PAWS of Coronado, is hosting a Dog Days of Summer kick-off event on Wednesday, June 18, from 3 to 4 pm.
This collaborative event will feature participation from Recreation, Police, Public Services, and PAWS of Coronado. Enjoy free dog treats provided by the Recreation Department, chat with Police Services Officers about leash laws and enforcement, and meet adoptable dogs from PAWS of Coronado.

FILM FORUM CORONADO: "UFOria" (1985)
2025-06-18 18:00 - 20:30 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Coronado Public Library, in partnership with the Coronado Island Film Festival, presents FILM FORUM CORONADO, taking place the first and third Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. in the library’s Winn Room. Film expert Ralph DeLauro provides a brief introduction to each film and leads a discussion afterwards, often including pointers about how lighting or camera angles contribute to a scene’s mood or propel the story.
June 18: UFOria (1985, PG, 93 min)
A giddy, whimsically, witty ditty about the need to believe. Shelved by studio execs with cold feet, this snappy slice of contemporary Americana achieved cult status. A backwater grocery store clerk (Cindy Williams), a bogus faith healer (Harry Dean Stanton) and a hapless drifter (Fred Ward) wait on the arrival of an interplanetary Noah’s Ark.

Armchair Travel: Africa on Water & Foot
2025-06-18 18:30 - 20:00 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Africa with renowned nature and wildlife artist Fred Krakowiak. In his captivating program, The Artist’s Safari, Fred combines his artistic talent with vivid storytelling drawn from his personal safari adventures. Experience the thrill of charging elephants, close encounters with crocodiles and cape buffalo, and the joy of connecting with local communities as he teaches African children how to paint.
Through stunning visuals and engaging narration, Fred offers a one-of-a-kind perspective on the raw beauty, culture, and wildlife of Africa—bringing the safari experience to life from the comfort of your seat.
Ticket prices:

Senior (55+)

Resident $7
Nonresident: $9

Adult

Resident: $9
Nonresident: $11

All tickets are $9 at the door. Reserve your spot today for this inspiring evening of art, adventure, and cultural discovery. To register, visit coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center front desk at 1019 Seventh Street.

Lights, Camera… Conspiracy: A.C. Adams discusses "Chasing Shadows"
2025-06-19 11:00 - 12:00 | Coronado Public Library, 640 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Join the Coronado Public Library and Ollie Media as they welcome author duo A.C. Adams to discuss their debut novel, a gripping tale of mystery, betrayal, and the search for truth. In Chasing Shadows, a young woman’s father disappears without warning and a cryptic message is all he leaves behind. Her quest to find him leads across continents and into a tangle of buried secrets that will shatter everything she believed about her family. The authors, veterans of the entertainment industry with backgrounds in both television and theatre, will discuss their inspirations for the book and more.
Watch the trailer for their book here.
A book signing will follow the talk. This event is free and open to the public to attend. Books will be available for sale.
About Chasing Shadows
When renowned professor Dr. Aidan Ryan vanishes without explanation, he leaves behind a haunting message revealing he has a new life and can never return. His devastated daughter Sofia embarks on a global search to uncover the truth behind her father’s disappearance. What she finds is more shocking than she could have imagined—a web of family secrets and lies that challenges everything she thought she knew.
After clues send her to Italy, Sofia reconnects with her estranged mother Ella who reveals a hidden past of trauma and deceit. When they discover Aidan’s ties to The Brotherhood, an elusive, powerful society that operates in the shadows of world affairs, Sofia and Ella become ensnared in a deadly conspiracy. Trapped in ancient catacombs beneath the Roman countryside, they must confront their mysterious captors and fight for their lives. But as they edge closer to escape, one question remains: Will Aidan choose his family or The Brotherhood?
A.C. Adams is the nom de plume of co-authors Anthony Leigh Adams and Christina Adams. They have written and produced film and television projects for studios including Disney, ABC, CBS, NBC, and OWN. Their production company, Adams Entertainment, is based in La Jolla, California. For more information about Chasing Shadows and A.C. Adams’s other projects, visit adamsentertainment.com.
