THE SURFING ISSUE Epic Adventure at Sea Meet the Bertas Baja Fish Tacos
AUGUST 2020
Timeless Designs for Life Timeless Designs for Life Timeless Designs for Life Timeless Designs for Life
Timeless Designs for Life Timeless Designs for Life
Interior Design Decorating New Construction Renovations Interior Design Decorating New Construction Renovations Renovations Interior Interior Design NewConstruction Construction Decorating New Renovations DesignDecorating Renovations Interior Interior Design NewConstruction Construction Decorating New Renovations DesignDecorating
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IN FOCUS | GREEN BLANKET BY DEREK EMGE
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In Focus
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Editor's Note
10 Local Entertainment & Events 12 Marc Miller Living the Dream 24 Meet the Berta Family 30 Toby Cunningham Stars in Magnetic 34 Baja Fish Tacos 40 Learning Something New as a Family 48 Perfect Pillows 52 Tastes of Tavern 58 Emerald City Summer Fashion
Photo Credits The photos being featured in this issue were all submitted in this year’s 2nd Annual Crown City Magazine Surf Photo Contest. All photos submitted get the chance to be published in Crown City Magazine and participants enter to win prizes from local contest sponsors. Check out our Instagram posts about the contest @CrownCityMagazine. Front Cover: A gorgeous shot titled “Looking In” of surfer Zach Emge riding a wave this past May at Officer’s surf break at North Island. The photo was taken by his father, local photographer Derek Emge. Artwork is available for purchase at Art & Frames Gallery Coronado. Photo Credit: Derek Emge | On Instagram as @Oceanic_Photography_West Website: DerekEmgePhotography.com In Focus (pages 2 & 3): An incredible action shot called “Green Blanket” of surfer Zach Emge riding a gorgeous emerald green wave this past May at Officer’s surf break at North Island. The photo was taken by his father, local photographer Derek Emge. This photo won 1st place in this year's Surf Photo Contest. Artwork is available for purchase at Art & Frames Gallery Coronado. Photo Credit: Derek Emge | On Instagram as @Oceanic_Photography_West Website: DerekEmgePhotography.com Back Cover and Table of Contents (image to the right): These photos were taken by local resident Andrea Giraldi of her 7-year- old son, Max Giraldi, on his first day learning how to surf at Shipwrecks surf break near the Coronado Shores. Photo Credit: Andrea Giraldi
Max’s mom says the photo shown to the right was of his first smile after riding his first wave. She adds that his “smile says it all. He’s hooked!” Way to go, Max!
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CONTENTS & CREDITS | AUGUST 2020
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PHOTO BY BLAIR AUSTIN
A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR | AUGUST 2020
The Crown City Magazine team celebrates our local surfing community every year with a fun Surf Photo Contest that launches in Spring, followed by the August Surfing issue. Check out some of the photos that were submitted in this year’s annual Surf Photo Contest on page 60. Paddle out, sit back and get to know the Berta family in our People section. The longtime residents talk to us about what it’s like living in Coronado for a family who have been surfing here for three generations. Grab on and drop in with Toby Cunningham, professional big wave surfer, who is currently featured in a documentary called Magnetic which follows thrill-seeking athletes traveling to remote locations all over the world, pursuing their passion for extreme sports. Follow Marc Miller, founder of ISLE Surf & Sup, as he sails to remote tropical islands on an epic surf adventure that will no doubt go down in Coronado history. Perhaps his legendary tale will spark inspiration in others who share his dream for adventure travel. Pull in for a sweet ride down memory lane and reminisce with chef Clyde Van Arsdall IV, a culinary extraordinaire, as he takes us back to long-ago surf trips to Baja California. Make sure you’ve had something to eat, because Arsdall also gives us some history on traditional Baja Fish Tacos & he works our appetite up with a delicious recipe that you can make at home. Carve through the rest of this issue with the scoop on local events and entertainment, and get inspired by the ladies. Fashion writer, Emma Jane Wellings, founder of My Style on the Go, shows off the latest summer trends for women from Emerald City Surf Shop, while the girls at Bungalow 56 show us how to spruce up our chill spaces with one of our favorite things in life: pillows. Last but not least, Island Girl Blog has some wonderful ideas to take some time to learn something new as a family right here in Coronado. In Coronado, we love easy summer beach days and no one appreciates the gorgeous weather and mellow summertime vibe like our local surfing community. Our small town is deeply rooted in surf culture. With the emerald green waters of the Pacific Ocean crashing on our long stretch of sandy beach, sparkling with gold mica, our unique coastline has definitely played a role in the surfing world. Hope you enjoy our third annual Surfing Issue. Here’s to savoring summer ‘til the last drop! Cheers! Heather Canton, Editor
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E N T E R TA I N M E N T & E V E N T S | A U G U S T 2 0 2 0
Click here!
Virtual Events
The Coronado Cultural Arts Commission makes it easy to find local virtual activities with an online calendar. Check out the array of activities offered at www.coronadoarts.com/artsonline. We thank everyone offering virtual events for their commitment to the arts and our community, and we encourage you to stay home, stay safe, tune in and tip out! Let's come together online to give them our support, too. VIRTUAL ART LESSONS & CLASSES Anna Woerman of CoSA - Instagram #nadoartchallenge Joan Green - Art Programs Carole Jensen - Cooking Classes Lisa Solis - Music Classes for Kids Coronado Arts Academy - Music Lessons Joyce Chapman - Online Journaling Ms. Mariah's Music - Piano Lessons The Coronado Library - Activities for All Ages Diane Alexander - Voice Lessons Coronado Scribes - Local Writing Club Emily Boyle - Piano Lessons VIRTUAL FITNESS & WELLNESS Coronado Fitness Club Coronado Yoga & Wellness Center Deep Blue Sea Sanctuary Martial Arts America Sweat Equity Island Yoga Yoga on C 10
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VIRTUAL LIVE MUSIC CONCERTS Fish and the Seaweeds Mariah Gillespie Jerry Gontang Michael Gonzales (Gonzo) Matt Heinecke Phil Lean Ron Wheeler of Ron's Garage Trish Naval Doug Booth Jake Lyons Miss Demeanor VIRTUAL SOCIAL EVENTS Wine A Bit - Virtual Wine Tastings • For a complete listing of events, visit www. coronadoarts.com/artsonline. • To add an event to the calendar, please e-mail Arts Education Commissioner Mariah Gillespie at mariah@msmariahsmusic.com.
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very surfer longs for the day they can sail to tropical islands in search of perfect waves. As I sit down to write this story, Marc Miller is anchored off the eastern coast of Java, emerging onto the teak deck of his 40-foot sailing catamaran, the Tortuga. Geographically, Indonesia is the world’s largest island country, peppered with world class waves and legendary surf breaks. Marc, a Coronado local and co-founder of ISLE Surf & SUP, is perched off the holy grail of perfect waves: G-Land. The typically crowded lineup of visiting international surfers is nearly empty due to the pandemic, with the exception of Marc, who surfs the now-vacant breaks with impunity. Indonesia’s economy is crippled by the coronavirus. Ferries and flights are canceled across the entire archipelago. Resorts are shuttered and tourists are mostly gone. Marc, with his Russian girlfriend and a “merry Australian crew member,” has no choice but to hunker down (and surf), very far away from his hometown of Coronado. Don’t feel too bad for the guy. Marc has an infectious energy with a knack for making wine out of water. This time is no different.
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I’ll never forget the first time I met Marc while growing up in Coronado. He was a few years older and I was switching classes in Fifth Grade at Central Elementary. My good friend, Peter Falletta, said, “Hey, look at those two guys.” Decked out in Emerald City’s latest trends, Marc and his buddy, Jason Ronis, were cruising along between the old tennis courts and the fatigued high school gymnasium. Full of energy and laughing hard with his life-long friend, Jason, they expressed an enthusiastic: “What’s up!” Marc was hyper, almost levitating as I recall. He is still full of this zeal for life. As I got a little older and started surfing, I quickly learned they both could surf, and surf very well. They were always in the lineup at Outlet and other local surf spots like Shipwrecks and Boca Rios. Their love for surfing, espoused proudly to everyone, especially us young guys, stuck with me more than their surfing abilities. They also shared a passion for adventure, hunting for new waves in desolate locales from Baja to Santa Barbara. With Marc’s perennial quest for a good time, and Jason’s big smile and gregarious nature, they charged up and down the California coast, winning friends everywhere they went, accessing little-known breaks and private beaches. It was no surprise to me, 25 years later, when I heard Marc was planning to buy a catamaran and sail around the world. Of course, he is. This is only natural. It’s what he was born to do, I thought. So, with fierce focus and determination, Marc began tediously learning, planning, and figuring out what it would take to trek around the planet alone on a 40-foot sailboat. You and I talk and dream about doing this sort of thing. Marc did it. He is doing it now. But, wait. There is more to this story than a surf quest. It will make you green with envy and you will want to abandon all your responsibilities and commitments. Marc earned this voyage, and he did it the American way by building a successful business. Before sailing off to chase warm water and waves, he and another Coronado native, Doug Pate, worked hard to create ISLE Surf & SUP, a successful surfboard and stand-up paddle board company. The two partners have been friends since childhood. While Marc was surfing every day, Doug was busy at Coronado High School as a student athlete. During his last football game ever at Cutler Field, he scored every point for the Islanders’ football team that night. He kicked four field goals, rushed for a touchdown-and caught one, too. Today, he and Marc own a respected brand in the surf and stand-up-paddle (SUP) industry. ISLE is a name you see on seemingly every paddle board in town and, frankly, most paddle boards anywhere these days. According to Marc, “What started as a dream to escape boring corporate jobs eventually turned into a thriving online paddle board brand.” It wasn’t an easy road. To formidably stand up, stand out and take the lead in the board manufacturing world, they decided to enter the busy, byzantine world of Beijing, China and her surrounding small towns and factories. The year was 2004. Fresh out of college, the two surfers followed their passion, starting out in their parents’ storage unit. Since then, ISLE has grown into one of the largest online retailers of paddle boards and surfboards in the world. They currently operate a 15,000-square-foot distribution center and retail facility in San Diego. Boldly going to China to set up quality board manufacturing before the surge of other entrepreneurs illustrates a quality in Marc that many have recognized: willingness to challenge himself to reach his goals. For Marc, goal No. 1 was to build ISLE. Goal No. 2 was to sail and surf Indo, indefinitely. To understand where the idea and drive to build ISLE Surf & SUP originated, I asked Marc that simple question. “I was bit by the surfing bug, early,” stated Marc. As a young teenager, Marc’s surfer-father helped him make the move from boogie-board to his first surfboard ride in front of The Coronado Shores.“That was it. I was hooked.” His lifelong passion for the sport planted the seed to eventually start ISLE, but first came a craving for travel and adventure. Surfing was going to be his ticket and reason. After high school, Marc traveled from Mexico to Central and South America and to Europe and Africa. He searched for world-class surf. While these experiences were magical, Marc longed to someday “sail across the tropical islands of the South Pacific and Indonesia. It’s every surfer’s dream,” Miller said.
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The Training Before the Dream Journey In 2018, with the company on solid ground, Marc sawed his palms together with a mischievous grin. His dream journey was finally becoming a reality. With “enough savings,” he planned a sabbatical from ISLE. Then one fateful day, the “cast-off date was set.” Full of confidence and excitement to realize his dream journey, Marc had one problem. He had never sailed a day in his life. Consequently, for the next few years, he “devoured books and took sailing classes,” starting right here in Glorietta Bay. He also had to locate and purchase a viable sailboat.
New Caledonia So, where does one find a reliable sailing vessel worthy of keeping you safe and alive in the vast and dangerous South Pacific? New Caledonia, of course. Known as a “little taste of Paris in the South Pacific,” it is a French territory with large lagoons and aqua-blue harbors, full of sailboats for sale. In choosing the catamaran, Mark sought counsel from an experienced boat captain. They scoured the global boat market for a suitable vessel. It was clear from the beginning he needed a catamaran, or a “global-ready cat,” as he says. Once he identified and negotiated for the forty-footer, Marc said farewell to family and friends and departed on a 20-hour flight, halfway around the world to take ownership of his new home: “the good ship Tortuga.” The planning and dreaming were over. Upon arrival, things didn’t go so smoothly. He recalls staying in an overpriced hotel in the French-speaking country, when reality sank in. “Everything that could go wrong went wrong,” he said. First there were boat problems, and his longtime girlfriend had never spent much time on a boat and certainly not on a trip like this one. She hung in there about six months before breaking the news to Marc that she needed to go home. He understood. The sailing and surfing life just wasn’t for her. It was hard for both of them. “The first six months was probably the most difficult, losing her and learning to live in a confined space, getting along with the crew, cooking, making your own water, provisions, fuel, oil, broken engines, batteries, CROWNCITYMAGAZINE.COM
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generators, the list goes on, to the point where it nearly broke me physically and financially.” Stuck in New Caledonia fixing boat problems, he went way over budget before he even left port. Undeterred, Marc hired a captain who was contracted to move onboard and teach him to sail Tortuga on his own. After what was supposed to be a week of preparations, two months later, Marc and his crew were ready to sail. Their first trip was a 20-day circumnavigation of New Caledonia from its capital, Nouméa. The voyage along the surf-rich west coast was spectacular, dotted with tall pine trees, sandy tropical inlets and calm, turquoise lagoons. They visited the Isle of Pines, an old penal colony with some of the most stunning aqua colored coves on earth. Some beaches were covered entirely with hundreds of multi-colored sea snakes. Shipwrecks, new and old, resembled small island chains. The scenery and tranquility was stunning. “We paid no mind. Our focus was on hitting each and every empty reef break around the island that we came across. And, we did.” The captain, Marc recalls, was not a surfer. He wouldn’t anchor them near the waves, so they had to paddle across shark infested channels to reach the surf. To add insult to injury, Marc erred by inviting a longtime non-sailing friend to join, which just added another inexperienced body to an already crowded vessel. True to character, Marc didn’t sweat it (or the shark infested waters). With his characteristic high-octane positive attitude, they quickly moved on and enjoyed “champagne surfing and sailing with the trades up the north coast.” Tortuga rounded the tip of the island and they could see the commune of Heinghene, covered in lush verdant mountains, gushing waterfalls, and solid rock formations which jetted out into the warm blue ocean. This was the former home to a famous indigenous chief who united the formerly warring tribes against the French colonists in the 1800s. Things on the boat kept falling apart and just about everything on the boat was now broken. The last straw was having to manually hoist the anchor up due to a fouled windlass. Then foul weather hit. With 30 knot head winds and rough seas, the wind changed quickly. Temperatures rose to 104°F. Claustrophobia set in and Marc caught his first bout of cabin fever. Being the salty pirate he is, he drank a bottle of rum and directed “everyone to walk the plank.” He had made the decision to head back to port. Marc ceremoniously took the last sugary sip of that delicious local rum. Like a marooned sailor, he stuffed a note in the empty bottle: “PLEASE SEND HELP. SOS!” Regretfully, he included his name and email before tossing it overboard. In a tale that could only happen here, the bottle was found. Back at ISLE, Doug was presumably going about a normal day when the office was suddenly contacted by the New Caledonian Maritime Police with an image of the SOS note. Was Marc a castaway? It had been “scooped up in the middle of remote northeastern New Caledonia, populated with just a few small indigenous tribes” where somebody “found the message in a bottle and phoned it in,” Marc said. I can picture Doug sitting in his industrial warehouse office, half-smiling and knowing this had to be classic Marc and one of his wild antics. The fact of the matter was, this was a serious mistake and error in judgment. Luckily, the Tortuga just happened to receive a signal to receive the police’s message which said that if they didn’t respond “the choppers were coming out.” The Tortuga made contact with the authorities and Marc profusely apologized. He was grateful for their understanding and more importantly learned a “hard lesson on how serious an SOS message is taken on the open ocean and how hard it is to adjust to living aboard a cruising vessel with no prior experience.” With profound lessons learned and three expensive months in New Caledonia, the Tortuga “bid adieu” and set sail for the storied Fijian Islands.
Islands of Fiji Fiji is an archipelago of more than 300 islands, known for sandy beaches, palm-lined coasts and rugged terrain. Getting there by sea was a challenge because seasonal trade winds were against them, combined with a low pressure system. Conditions were gloomy for the entire five-day slog across the deep South Pacific. Marc says this trek is one of the toughest motor sails you can do. They made the journey without sunshine or blue skies, but the somber mood did not last long. They pulled into view of the main island, Viti Levu, home to the worldfamous wave, Cloudbreak, peeling perfectly down the reef. 16
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Surrounded by the world’s friendliest natives, affordable living, stellar surf, diving and some of the best weather and island cruising, “I thought I had found heaven.” With no time to waste, Marc slipped into the water where he “surfed every day until his arms fell off.” Typically they would anchor just off Cloudbreak or Tavarua. If the surf was small, they sailed north to the Yasawa island chain for diving and fishing. The crew had finally found paradise. All the issues and problems of learning to live aboard the Tortuga faded to black. They were comfortably anchored within the warm embrace of Fiji’s calm lagoons. A joyous time it was. They watched glaring orange-red sunsets over Namotu and they sipped Fiji Bitters in the purple afterglow of night. After marathon surf sessions, Marc would talk surf with fellow “cruisers” at the Musket Cove bar. “We even acquired a pet manta ray that would swim to the boat nightly and feed off the baitfish from the underwater boat lights at night.” Marc was content and confident there. His family even flew out from California for a few weeks to share the special place.
Fiji Day One night, while having dinner at a nice restaurant in Port Denoreau, their waiter invited them to see “the real Fiji.” It was Fiji Day, a celebration of the country’s independence from the British Crown. Marc recalls a memorable experience, as they were able to escape the confines of the corporate resorts and affluent yachting community to see Fiji from an entirely different perspective. They feasted in the local village and drank Kava late into the night. The locals were hospitable and kind and spoke of global politics, island life and the struggle of the Fijians to survive in an economy controlled by international resorts. Marc was told that Fiji is overwhelmed by Indian immigrants, who now nearly outnumber the locals. They complained of limited opportunities and a low minimum wage. Despite the challenges, the people of Fiji are strong and everyone parted in good spirits, with a sincere hope for a better future. With newfound local friends and great surf, Marc had no intention of ever leaving, but “the season closed” and it was time to move on to the East Coast of Australia. Wicked cyclones were approaching and they had to move the Tortuga, Marc says, to “maintain my insurance coverage on the vessel,” a vestige of the mainland and capitalism this pirate would rather have forgotten. 18
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Down Under
LORD HOWE - BALL'S PYRAMID, MIDDLETON REEF (AUS TERRITORY) “The closest hole to hide in this large stretch of ocean was a small Australian island in the Tasman Sea called Lord Howe.” After shoving off from Port Denareua to Sydney, the world’s largest natural harbor, their good fortune followed them in the form of a splendid downwind sail for a week straight with gusty tradewinds pushing them along until a miscalculation of the weather caught them off guard. Pushing Marc for more details, he shared that this was one of the more nerve-racking events of his trip. They had to make quick decisions and move toward land immediately. “The closest hole to hide in this large stretch of ocean was a small Australian island in the Tasman Sea called Lord Howe.” The mainsail flapped frantically as fast-moving seas and wind speeds increased by the hour, making it difficult to reach Lord Howe Island. “On approach, I could see the tops of the mountainous vertical sea cliffs poking above the clouds, looking like Mount Everest in the middle of the ocean, with clouds closing in quickly on their peaks like a chokehold.” Scary and unforgiving, waves grew to over 20 feet, with winds approaching 40-plus knots. Confused by the treacherous and wicked waves, they shot for a small hole in the reef leading. There was a calm barrier reef lagoon on that western shore. Relief was in sight. But before entering the safe harbor, the Tortuga needed to make contact with the local maritime police. In a justified panic, they radioed the Lorde Howe harbor authorities to alert them of their predicament and more importantly seek permission to enter.
Lord Howe Island The authorities told them it was too rough to enter. The nose of an approaching storm was ahead. Marc said their only option was “to run bare poles to Sydney,” which was a three day diversion to the east. Storm-weary and exhausted, this was not an option for the novice Tortuga crewmates. After some intense deliberation, they made the decision to disregard the authorities and aim for and sail into the small pass and through the angry channel. They made it, but Tortuga’s boom snapped and they lost their tender after two days of hunkering down inside the flat lagoon with limited visibility and 60-plus knot winds. They found themselves emerging from this life-affirming event “on one of the most interesting islands on earth.” Lord Howe Island is a tiny island in the Tasman Sea of Australia, east of Port Macquarie. It is a “UNESCO world heritage site,” Marc said, and it reminded him “of northern California, Hawaii and Tahiti all combined as one.” The island is subtropical, with clear water, sandy shores, coral-rich coastlines and a soaring mountain with seabirds colonizing upon its sweeping views. What was particularly jaw-dropping, Marc said, was the 2,000-foot-high vertical sea cliff jutting out from the lagoon towering over their anchorage. While experience and preparation are essential for safe sailing on an arduous trip like this, they were increasingly learning, and with a little luck and good fortune they became quite handy. They soon figured out that a few nautical miles south was Lord Howe’s sister island known for its diving and some of the best fishing grounds, “if you can pull it in before the sharks get it.”
Ball's Pyramid This majestic fishing place is called Ball's Pyramid. It is the tallest sea pinnacle in the world, riding 1800 square feet from sea level and home to the endemic Phasmid, a strange alien-like creature once thought to be extinct from Lorde Howe in the 1940s, but was rediscovered on the pyramid in the 1980s along with “lobsters as big as humans.” According to Marc, the island also has some sister atolls in the north named Middleton and Elizabeth reef that are home to some of the “most pristine and untouched reefs in the world, teeming with shipwrecks, seabirds, sharks and fish.” Upon seeing the active marine life at Ball's Pyramid, Marc jumped in to swim with the sharks. He had “one of the CROWNCITYMAGAZINE.COM
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most amazing shark dives off the boat in the sandy lagoon.” The sharks he dove with are called Galapagos Whaler Sharks and thankfully, “the Whalers are curious but don’t bite, most of the time,” he shared with a chuckle. While geographically remote, humankind was present in abundance and it was a welcome sight. The island was filled with friendly international locals working at eco-resorts: “Friendly Aussie vibes and endless fishing, diving, hiking trails, surf, the world’s most southern coral reefs, a small golf course and some of the most unique flora and fauna nature has to offer.” Marc went on to say with deep sincerity, “It was a true paradise. Think Australia’s version of the Galapagos and I never wanted to leave but with our permit expiring it was once again time to move on!”
Australia’s East and Northeast Coast With deep reluctance, the Tortuga and her satisfied sailors set sail for Sydney, planning to head to Darwin by way of the Great Barrier Reef, known as the Coral Coast. A small whale resembling Grays, Minkes followed in Tortuga’s wake for days on end. The crew once again enjoyed a “champagne sail with the trades at our back diving and fishing the whole way.” A great majority of their time on this trip was spent underwater, on the water, or looking straight ahead relishing and respecting the beauty, the danger and the mystery of nature. On this leg of the trip they looked up and it was stunning. They were star struck. Sailing in an area with zero light pollution they saw “some of the brightest meteor showers” one could imagine “as if the world was ending along with surreal dreamtime landscapes of the sacred aboriginal lands.” “The Northeast Coast has just about everything that will kill you.” Ever since I read 'Fatal Shore,' a historical epic about the founding of Australia, I have been intrigued about the dangers of its landscape. And the north stood out prominently as the most hair-raising region. Marc seemed well-aware of this fact too when he wrote this to me on a WhatsApp text, the only way we could communicate at times for this story: “The Northeast Coast has just about everything that will kill you.” Killer jellyfish, sharks, crocodiles, poisonous snakes, dingoes, you name it. Unless you’re diving, the general advice in the area is to steer clear of the water. Naturally, the fearless leader of the Tortuga went for a dive, and on this dive on the outer edge of the barrier reef Marc, dumbfounded, saw an iceberg. Or, so he thought. The iceberg turned out to be one of the only white whales on earth. While this may sound like a tall tale, I pushed Marc and he assured me it was not. “We could not believe our eyes, a jaw-dropping creature to behold circling the boat and blowing its spout.” They also saw “clams, the size of small dining tables.” Sadly, they learned that most of the Great Barrier reef was dead “with some exceptions in the northeast.” Following this, Tortuga spent the next couple months champagne-sailing. They cruised past white-powdered beaches along the breathtaking Whitsundays Island chain. They were heading to Darwin, Australia to prepare for the long voyage to Indonesia. “My ultimate goal and life dream was coming true. After such a prolonged lack of surf behind the barrier reef, I was salivating to finally surf again.”
Indonesia, Eastern Islands, Nusa, Tengarra And Java
“Why would anyone who loved surfing ever leave here?” Following a four-day voyage from Darwin to Kupang, Eastern Timor, Marc and crew were well on their way to the infinite waves of Indonesia. If you are a film aficionado or just love a good pirate-type story, you may be familiar with the 1962 historical film "Mutiny on the Bounty," starring Marlon Brando, where Kupang was the The Bounty’s first port-of-call, after a 3,000 mile journey across the South Pacific. Buzzing with excitement and anxious to speed through all the Indonesian red tape that comes with entering its waters, they made their way to the eastern islands known as Nusa Tengarra. Over the course of the Indonesian surfing season they cruised in Rote, Savu, Sumba, Sumbawa, Flores and Lombok. Each island had its own unique set of world class waves, culture and landscapes. What made this extra special was how desolate it was and a big catamaran was the ideal way to explore it, reaching remote islands, beaches and waves not possible by land. 20
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Marc was in heaven. From growing up surfing at Coronado’s Shipwrecks beach, to those bountiful shores abroad, with real-life ancient and new shipwrecks, he was where he was supposed to be. “Always nervous about what could go wrong in a country notorious for corruption and red tape, you are totally dependent on the locals to help you whether it’s a bush mechanic helping troubleshoot a tempermental generator or provision-runs from the closest village or market, we never once had an unfriendly encounter or felt unwelcome. The hospitality of the Indonesian people and the innocent smiles of the remote islanders are some of the best memories, and I will carry them with me forever,” Marc wrote to me in late June. Marc went on to tell me stories of pulling into waves with bare reefs below him and giant volcanoes casting dark shadows over him. Mother Nature was all around him showing him just how beautiful, dangerous and exhilarating she could be. After long days catching every wave he could, he would paddle back to Tortuga to crack a beer, reflect and stare at the latest “jaw-dropping” sunset Mother Nature painted that evening. “Why would anyone who loves surfing ever leave?” he wondered. With stunning surf in isolated pockets of the world, inevitably come wild stories. One night’s event was their closest call of the journey. It nearly ended their trip. They woke to another catamaran that had broken its anchor line in a big swell coming right for them and about to slam into their boat. Marc remembers, “Their crew and captain who were still asleep and mere feet from our boat finally woke up after hearing our screams and started his engine.” Luck was on their side.
Komodo National Park When the crew of the Tortuga wasn’t dodging loose ships and pulling into the perfect, crystal clear A-frames of Indo, they were exploring places like the Komodo National Park. The area is located on the western tip of Flores where the Indian Ocean meets the Pacific, with daily tidal changes “producing some of the most pristine and diverse corals in the world.” They dove “mind-bending” coral walls with colors and architecture that only acid guru Timothy Leary would believe. Marc describes doing daily drift dives with manta rays. One day, he nervously watched wild Komodo Dragons stare at them from the shoreline. While the rogue catamaran almost ended this epic adventure, “the scariest moment was when I took a shower at dusk on the back steps of the boat and what I thought was scuba gear turned out to be a 5-foot long sea snake!” Typically much smaller, “stepping on what I thought was scuba gear turned out to be it’s head and I nearly jumped out of my skin when I realized what it was.” Listening to Marc, nearly three years down the track, he now sounds like a seasoned yachtsman. Childhood surf dreams realized, he is on his second season in Indonesia and “boat life is now easy, you start to know your boat better than you know yourself.” What are normally crowded peak season surfing spots are all mostly empty now due to the pandemic and travel lockdowns. Tortuga’s biggest concern is running out of beer. However, while he is feeling content and confident aboard his catamaran, like a trail-hardened cowboy on his horse, Marc shares with me that he also hopes “things get back to normal for the Indonesian people” who so desperately depend on their tourism economy. With a spotty connection to the outside world, he signed off by sharing: “They say just before you die, the things you wish you would have done flash before your eyes, and I can honestly say after this journey, I can die tomorrow a happy man. And, the journey has only just begun. After Indonesia, if I can ever leave, the islands of Papua New Guinea and the Solomons are next on the radar!” Marc says this trip isn’t forever… that he’s coming back. I don’t think he will return anytime too soon.Would you?
• Whitney Benzian is a Coronado City Councilmember and real estate agent with Douglas Elliman. He lives in town with his wife and three children. CROWNCITYMAGAZINE.COM
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www.islesurfandsup.com
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Three Generations: (L-R) Corey, Sophie, Owen and Jim Berta.
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P E O P L E | T H E B E R TA FA M I LY
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couple of years before the Coronado Bay Bridge opened, when Coronado was a sleepy town that required a ferry to access, a fresh-out-ofHigh School Jim Berta enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was stationed at Coronado. Choosing to tryout for what is now commonly known as the U.S. Navy SEALs, Jim graduated with Class #44 and promptly raced home to marry Mary Ann in 1969. Having just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past winter, whenever Jim is asked about his life, he always begins by sharing, "Asking Mary Ann to marry me? Best decision I ever made." What drew you both to raise a family in Coronado? At first, it was just where Jim was active duty. Over time that changed, of course, but who couldn't just love Coronado?
Jim, what drew you to surfing? "Stationed in Coronado, and being in the Teams, I had the chance to learn to surf and exercise in the water." If I can't surf, it's a bad day. The passion for surfing is one he's shared with his son, Corey, a former Coronado High School Water Polo player and CHS graduate, but also with his granddaughter, Sophie and grandson, Owen. After serving in Vietnam, Jim joined the Navy reserves, ultimately retiring from the US Navy in 2002. Not one to sit on his laurels, Jim continued his second career as an iron worker, before retiring in 2012.
Now that you're retired from two demanding careers, what do you do with your time? "I get to surf in the mornings, sometimes later, and then go do my "honey-do" lists that Mary Ann makes for me."
What is a "Honey-Do'" list? "Anything that Mary Ann asks me to do. You know, 'Honey do this. Honey do that.�
Mary Ann, you're known around town as a dynamic businesswoman. What businesses do you own and operate? "I opened the doors of my first business, La Mer, in the Hotel Del Coronado. I had the boutique located there for over 20 years until I moved the shop to its current Orange Avenue location, where it's been for about a decade." Like Jim, Mary Ann isn't content with one career. While running her boutique, she also is a partner with Jenny Freel and Barbara Massey, opening the European-style bistro Tartine in the old Kensington Coffee location on First Street. Tartine opened their doors for brunch, lunch, and has a dinner menu of daily specials in 2001. As if being an owner of not one, but two businesses weren't enough, Mary Ann has been active in the community as a member of the Coronado Rotary Club for the past 15 years. The Berta's have two children, Corey and Molly, each a CHS graduate and former athlete in their own right. Corey stayed in town to raise a family near his friends and parents, while Molly left to attend Saint Mary's College of California in Moraga. After graduation, she spent 15 years in marketing, where she met her husband, Jarrod Gorbel, a professional musician, and settled down in Los Angeles with their daughter, Elsie.
Corey, how did you and your wife Sara meet? "Sara didn't grow up here, but we had a mutual friend that introduced us one night and hit it off. We were married in 2009."
You have two kids, Sophie and Owen. What made you two decide to raise them in town? 26
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“The biggest thing for us was the small town feel, knowing everyone, and community,” said Sara. “Yeah, for me, it's about being able to bike everywhere and see people I know. It makes it friendly and safe for us as a family,” Corey chimed.
Corey, what are some of your favorite things to do in town? "A night out, having a couple of beers with buddies, and going to the beach are my favorite things to do. I like being able to go out for a bit and not have to worry and be close to home. Coronado is great because when Sara and I enjoy a night out without the kids, it's easy to get back home to them quickly, and if we go out as a family, it's also easy to get around." For Corey, being close to family and friends, as well as the opportunity to surf, is vital for living in town.
Corey, what is it about surfing that's so important to you? Surfing's important to me because it's something we can all do together – my son Owen, my Dad and I. Back in the day, my Dad and I used to go on surf trips together with some of my friends. I've also worked at Emerald City in the past and taught with Coronado Surfing Academy doing private lessons and their surf school, so it's been a part of my life for a long time.
Do you all have a favorite surf spot in town? "Well, since we usually go out with my son Owen, and lately Sophie has picked it up a little, we usually go out south of the pit (near the Coronado Shores). We try to avoid bigger winter surf, and this spot is not too big on most days." • David Throop is a freelance writer from Coronado who now lives in Imperial Beach with his wife and child.
The Berta and Gorbel Families: (L-R) Jarrod, Molly and Elsie Gorbel; Sara, Corey, Owen and Sophie Berta; Mary Ann and Jim Berta. CROWNCITYMAGAZINE.COM
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF TOBY CUNNINGHAM
Our local claim-to-fame, Toby Cunningham, professional big wave surfer living in Nazaré, Portugal, stars in a film called Magnetic, currently on Netflix. The movie features several different types of athletes who all excel in different types of extreme sports. It highlights the focus and drive that it takes for these athletes to achieve their goals, and the struggles they often face along the way—the whole time being motivated by their passion to achieve what many would consider to be impossible. These athletes come from all around the world and pursue everything from surfing to wing suiting to snowboarding and so on. Cunningham, who grew up in Coronado and learned to surf right here at North Beach, has since won the first Billabong XXL Big Wave Paddle Award, setting a world record in 2003, and has been dropping into massive waves all over the world. Huge shout-out and congratulations to Cunningham as his career as a professional athlete soars to new heights, reaching a worldwide audience in this adrenaline packed film.
Toby in Nazare, Portugal after being towed into a wave by pro-surfer Glyn Ovens. Photo by Pedro Miranda.
Toby towing his friend, pro-surfer Alessandro Marciano in Nazare, Portugal. Photo by Alex Botelho. Opposite page: Toby riding a beautiful wave in Teahupoʻo, Tahiti. Photo by Tikanui Smith.
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Surfboard check near Punta Cabras, Baja California.
Hiking to the surf, Baja California.
In Southern California tacos and surfing have always gone hand in hand. There is no food more synonymous with surfing than the Baja fish taco. Roadside stands dedicated to this regional treasure dot the west coast of Baja and act as fueling stations for surfers traveling from one surf break to the next. When I was a young man, getting up early was something I did only when I had to, with one exception: surfing. A surf trip to Mexico had me springing out of bed before first light, hitting the sack early the night before to dream of fish tacos and cold Mexican beer. With boards strapped to the roof of the car, heading south on Interstate 5, the excitement was palpable. The first stop after crossing into Mexico was always a Corona beer substation to fill the cooler. At an official Corona substation, you could get a case of twenty Coronas for $8.99; not a bad price, especially when we found out $3.00 of that was a deposit. This was a mind-blowing discovery. If we kept the cardboard case, we could return the bottles on the way home and get back the deposit. We were all alumni of the Coronado High School math department, so working together as a team we were able to calculate that the beers only cost us thirty cents apiece. Fish tacos were inexpensive as well, so if you had twenty dollars for the day you could eat and drink like a king or queen and still have money for a bacon wrapped street dog or two while waiting in line at the border on the way home. To this day, I have not been able to duplicate, and certainly not top the care free times we had on those magical surfing day trips to Baja. Surfing trips to Mexico are unfortunately a distant memory for me. Trips down to Baja have been replaced by swanky escapes to the Guadalupe Valley. Cheap Coronas have become expensive glasses of regional wine, and the tacos are now made by celebrity chefs with fancy restaurants located in the vineyards. Today I am left with memories of those roadside stands of my youth where we would power down one crunchy fish taco after the next, washing them down with cold beer while telling stories of waves we caught and the ones that got away. I still love fish tacos, but the traditional ones are hard to find on this side of the border. It is worth noting that people have been eating fish with tortillas for hundreds of years, but the Baja fish taco as a dish is relatively new in the world of tacos. The dispute over the origin of the fish taco goes back and forth from Ensenada to San Felipe. The time frame of its conception is thought to be the late 1950s to the early 60s. 1966 brought the classic surf film “Endless Summer� tempting countless surfers to head south of the border, no doubt adding to the popularity of this regional delicacy. After reading quite a bit on the subject, I believe Ensenada has the most CROWNCITYMAGAZINE.COM
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reliable evidence as the birthplace of the fish taco. Legend tells of a vendor Mario , who would collect the unwanted sharks left on the beach by fisherman. Mario would get the sharks for free, fry them up, and serve them in tacos. They were so popular and Mario was so successful that other vendors got in the fish taco game. In the spirit of innovation, each vendor would try to outdo the other and improve upon the original. One such vendor decided to batter the fish before frying and the Baja fish taco we know today was born. From the very beginning, fish tacos evolved into someone’s idea of a better taco. Traditional Baja fish tacos are hard to find here in the States, so I recommend trying them out for yourself at home! The traditional Baja fish taco is a very simple concept: flour tortilla, locally caught white fish that is battered and fried until crisp and golden brown, shredded cabbage, Pico de Gallo, white sauce, fresh lime juice and a touch of your favorite hot sauce. If you want to punch up the heat, Valentina hot sauce is great on tacos. Research has the original tortilla as flour, however I prefer a good corn tortilla and I often double them up to assure the taco stays intact and doesn’t break. The batter should be light, so I like to use beer as the liquid. A traditional Mexican lager such as Corona works well or if you prefer a darker beer, Bohemia or Negra Modelo will do the trick. Just like sparkling water being used in tempura batter, the bubbles in the beer help make the batter light.. While not traditional, in the spirit of the ever-changing fish taco there are some fun takes on the original at City Taco in Imperial Beach, TJ Oyster company in Bonita,and Salud in Barrio Logan. Fresh tortillas and everything else you will need to make these at home can be found at Northgate Market in Barrio Logan. Don’t let the frying part of this recipe keep you from making these tacos at home and don’t talk yourself into thinking grilling the fish is just as good, because it’s not. I have included a great recipe from Rick Bayless, from his favorite fish taco stand in Ensenada. It is a good one, enjoy. • Clyde Van Arsdall IV is executive chef and general manager of the Neiman Marcus Café.
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R E C I P E S | C O U R T E SY O F C H E F C LY D E VA N A R S DA L L I V
Classic Ensenada Fish Tacos Tacos de Pescado “Clasicos de Ensenada”
Recipe from Rick Bayless Season 8 of Mexico one Plate at a time, the name of the episode is “Astonishing Baja”
Servings: 12 tacos, enough to serve 4 • • • • • • • • • • •
2 garlic cloves, peeled Salt to taste 1/2teaspoon Mexican oregano 1/2teaspoon fresh black pepper 1 teaspoon yellow mustard (like French’s) 1 teaspoon concentrated chicken base or chicken flavor powdered bouillon 1 cup beer, sparkling water or water 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 cup all-purpose flour Vegetable oil to a depth of 1 1/2 inches for frying 1 pound boneless, skinless fish filets (practically anything will work, but I like larger-flake, lighter-flavor fish best for this preparation—think halibut, sea bass, grouper and the like) • 1/3 cup mayonnaise • 1/3 cup sour cream or heavy (whipping) cream • 1/4 cup milk • 12 warm corn tortillas • 1 cup (or more) thinly sliced cabbage (I like Napa cabbage best) • About 1 cup pico de gallo and 3 limes cut into wedges
INSTRUCTIONS
• Finely chop the garlic, sprinkle generously with salt, then mash back and forth with the side of your knife across your cutting board until crushed to a puree. Scrape into a medium bowl and add the oregano, black pepper, mustard, base or bouillon, beer or water, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add the flour and baking powder to the wet ingredients and whisk just until combined. • Heat the oil in a heavy skillet to 370 degrees. While the oil is heating, cut the fish into pieces about 3 inches long by 1/2-inch square. Use a pair of tongs to pick up a piece of fish, dip it completely into the batter, and lay it into the oil. Continue with a few more pieces of fish, filling the hot oil with an uncrowded layer. Fry, turning the pieces regularly, until deep golden and crisp, about 4 minutes. • • Drain on paper towels and keep warm in a low oven on a wire rack set over a sheet pan while you fry the rest of the fish. • Mix the mayonnaise, sour cream and milk. Set out with the cabbage, pico de gallo, warm corn tortillas, limes and the crispy fish for everyone to make tacos.
Pico de Gallo
• medium plum tomatoes, chopped • 2 fresh serrano chiles, stemmed and roughly chopped into small pieces • 1/2 small onion, finely chopped and rinsed briefly under running water • 1/3 cup cilantro, finely chopped • The juice of one small lime • Salt
INSTRUCTIONS
• Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt, usually about 1/2 teaspoon. Mix and serve.
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A RO UN D TOW N | C H R I ST I NE VA N T U Y L
They say families that play together, stay together. Never has this been more true than during the global pandemic. While families may find themselves “stuck” with each other a little more than they’d like, there’s still lots of fun to be had. Check out these safe and lively ways to learn something new as a family.
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PHOTOS BY THE BERTA FAMILY
C AT C H A S W E E T R I D E Nothing clears the mind and fuels the soul like a refreshing frolic in the Pacific Ocean… even more so atop a surfboard. So, what could be more thrilling than taking a family surf lesson? Coronado Surfing Academy has been teaching families how to hang 10 for more than 15 years. The coaches, all First Aid and CPR certified, are dedicated to providing families with the ultimate surfing experience, earning the school top marks on TripAdvisor and Yelp. Lessons are offered for surfers of all abilities, ages 6 and up, no experience required. The best part? The surf coaches bring all the wetsuits and boards. All you need is your suit and your towel. Worried about COVID-19? Coronado Surf Academy utilizes contactless temperature checks for employees and guests, single-use wetsuit and sanitation, and neck gaiter face coverings for all instructors. Book your lesson online or via phone. Coronado Surfing Academy 619-293-3883 CoronadoSurfing.com
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COOK UP A STORM
You're probably eating at home a lot these days, so why not take your culinary creations to the next level? Time to bring in the expert! Lovin’ Spoonfuls Cooking, run by local Chef Carole Jensen, teaches cooking for foodies of all ages. Her family-style classes (you can even pick the menu) promise to satisfy the most finicky kid eater. Carole designs the entire experience: from cocktails for the parents, to the table settings and desserts…it’s all part of the package. Carole is careful to give age-appropriate cooking tasks to all members of the family, and a menu that promises to indulge the tastes of even the most persnickety gourmet. (Not convinced? Check out her resume -Cordon Bleu? The Peter Kump School of Cooking in NYC? Yeah, she’s got skills.) In addition to family-style classes, Lovin' Spoonfuls offers sushi-making, a Unicorn Party, Edible Spa Party, and more. (I mean, who doesn’t want to make a psychedelic unicorn ball? I know I do.) Lovin’ Spoonfuls Cooking 858-413-6622 LovinSpoonfulsCooking.com
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G E T VO N T R A P P W I T H YO U R T R I B E What could be more therapeutic than singing together as a family? “Music and singing is a universal language,” says Diane Alexander, local soprano singer and voice coach. “When you sing, musical vibrations move through you, altering your physical and emotional landscape.” Diane would know: she’s a professional opera singer and Broadway star, boasting a career that spans three decades. (She even played the role of Carlotta in a production of “Phantom of the Opera.”) Lucky for us, she’s teaching virtual singing classes from her studio here in Coronado and counts many families as her students. “Group singing, for all those who have done it, is incredibly exhilarating and transformative to all,” says Diane. “It’s like taking a happy pill! Throw in some basic percussion, and you have a family jam session.” To book a lesson, visit her website. Diane Alexander Voice Academy Email: DianeNado@Gmail.com DianeAlexanderVoiceAcademy.com CROWNCITYMAGAZINE.COM
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GO HOME-GROWN
If the idea of plucking a juicy tomato from your backyard gives you all the feels, consider planting your own vegetable garden. The late summer months are the perfect time to plant crops like spinach, broccoli, kale, green beans, beets, peppers, tomatoes, asparagus, and more, according to local garden expert Roberta Lenert. If you’re short on space (as most of us are in Coronado) Roberta suggests making use of planter boxes, hanging wall gardens, tower gardens, and rooftop gardens in addition to traditional gardens. When it comes to seeds, Roberta recommends buying online from San Diego Seed Company; the seeds are native to San Diego which is important for the heartiness of your crop. She also suggests the following beginner tips: 1. Read seed packets and plant labels to avoid overcrowding; 2. Add compost and nutrients every three to four weeks; 3. Water properly, always in the morning; 4. Harvest often; 5. Use succession planting. (Check out my blog post on IslandGirlBlog.com for more details and tips on planting your own garden.) Still not sure? Roberta is available for hire as your garden consultant. Contact her to make arrangements. “Gardening has been such a huge part of my life during COVID, and I would love to help others find the beauty, happiness and peace that gardening brings,” says Roberta. Roberta Lenert, M.Ed.and Garden Expert 619-755-7439 Email: RobertaLenert@hotmail.com
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F I L L I N Y O U R F A M I LY T R E E There’s no time like now to find out more about your ancestry! Learning about your heritage can be fun and educational for all members of your family. You can even discover new relatives you didn’t know you had! So, what’s the easiest, best way to learn about your ancestry? There are a few options. If you’re down to spend some cash, order a DNA test from 23andMe. Best known for its health reports and eye-catching ancestry graphics, 23andMe has a huge pool of DNA testers: over 10 million, making it a great place to look for relatives. AncestryDNA is another good one, and it helps users compare their family trees and links to Ancestry.com, which is home to more than 11 billion old records, and 100 million family trees. (Check out their YouTube channel for beginner-friendly tutorials.) Archives.com, and FamilySearch.org are also fun starting points. Have fun and don’t be shocked if you find a “surprise” relative or learn that you’re 5% Yakut.
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LIFESTYLE | KARYN FRAZIER + JESSICA NICOLLS
• Karyn Frazier and Jessica Nicolls are the owners of the interior design firm Bungalow 56. 48
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F O R K S & C O R K S | T AV E R N
The Coronado Golden Braised Short Rib Slider and Angus Flat Iron Steak Taco (pictured here) can both be found on the Tavern's Happy Hour menu. 52
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Regarded by many as a “hidden treasure,” the Tavern invites you to descend downstairs—below street level—to a relaxed and comfortable space, adorned with vintage décor. You’ll find repurposed bricks lining the bar, exposed pipes, and even wood from an old basketball court. Glamorous, showy chandeliers contrast splendidly against a background of wood and brick, beckoning diners to cozy up in a secluded booth. The best part? Less the tavern become too cavernous, a large window breathes in air and sunshine, giving diners lovely views of Orange Avenue.
We chose to dine in the street-level outdoor dining space, given the global pandemic situation. (In case you are wondering, yes—all servers were wearing masks, and the patrons were spaced out appropriately. My husband and I didn’t have any concerns). Our outside booth was trimmed with natural-colored butcher paper and a fetching little mason jar, filled with bright pink flowers. Water for the table was brought out in a cute jar with decorated with a “T” for the Tavern, along with small mason jars to drink in. The little touches were nice, and the overall impression is that someone cares an awful lot about the details that enhance the diner experience.
Imagine our surprise when we learned it was happy hour – on a Saturday! Yes, the Tavern is offering Happy Hour from 3-6 p.m. daily. (At the time we dined, the hours were 4-6 p.m., as the Tavern was open only for dinner). Immediately, I ordered the house sangria with red wine, brandy, fresh squeezed orange, cane sugar, apples, oranges and lemons. Delicious down to the last drop! And at a Happy Hour price of $5.50, you can’t beat the value. My husband enjoyed a happy hour beer.
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For the appetizers, we got Coronado Golden Braised Short Rib Slider. This decadent and juicy little morsel is made with caramel-glazed onion, crème fraiche, horseradish slaw, a Bread & Cie brioche bun. If it sounds mouthwatering delicious, that’s because it is. We also ordered the Angus Flat Iron Steak Taco served with avocado, fresh salsa verde and cilantro. This south-of-the-border delight was beyond tasty and prepared to perfection. And, both items were on happy hour!
For my next cocktail, I tried the curious and delightful Beet & Agave concoction. Let me tell you, the mixologists at the Tavern really know what they are doing. This drink is made with beet-infused tequila, cucumber, almond, and lime—with no tequila-y taste. The Instagram-worthy presentation—complete with mini flowers—will impress the most seasoned sipper of spirits. You’ll never think of root veggies the same way.
Next up, we ordered the refreshing Iceberg Wedge with cherry tomato, red onion, crispy bacon and Roquefort dressing. It was expectedly enjoyable and crisp. We also loved sinking our forks into the Crispy Brussel Sprouts, which were beyond fabulous. We savored the drippy ancho chili balsamic reduction and abundance of parmesan.
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If fine dining is your thing, be sure to check out some of the main courses offered at the Tavern. They do not disappoint. You can choose everything from a chicken pot pie to pan seared Norwegian salmon to steak, as well the tempting grilled bacon and blistered Shishito pepper. But at the suggestion of our most-excellent server, Ben, we went rogue and got the Grilled Niman Ranch Bone in Pork Chop. Now, I’m not usually a pork chop kind-ofgirl, but this dish was fabulous and I will absolutely return and order it. The pork came dressed in a hard apple cider vinegar reduction, creamy polenta, sautéed green apples and charred broccolini. (If it sounds over-the-top decadent and flavorful, that’s because it is).
Finally, instead of desert, I opted for another drink—this time I went with the Raspberry and Rosemary cocktail. Featuring rosemary, a raspberry syrup, and shavings of grapefruit peels, it was equal parts sweet and tangy. All in all, the Tavern seems to fly a little under the radar, which suits me just fine. The Tavern is unassuming enough to be inviting, inventive enough to surprise you, and meticulous enough to satisfy the most discerning diner. Add a killer happy hour to the mix, and you’ve got a hidden gem that keeps locals coming back for more. • Christine Van Tuyl is a freelance writer who lives in Coronado with her husband and two children.
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Tina Gavzie
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Coronado resident and agent for 24 years
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S U M M E R FA S H I O N | E M M A J A N E W E L L I N G S
Summer heat and fun in the water doesn’t mean you have to leave your style behind. Quite the opposite. Summer is a great season to make the most of bright colors and bold prints, and to enjoy easy-breezy fabrics and styles. Whether you’re heading straight from the beach or pool to a BBQ or backyard chill-out, our local, family-owned surf shop Emerald City has you covered. For cute, high quality swimsuits from great brands like L Space and Australian brand Rhythm, to perfect cover-ups, shorts, and sundresses from well-known brands Roxy, Billabong, O’Neill, and Volcom, to name a few; as well accessories from cool brand Brixton. You simply have to grab a post-beach smoothie and take a peek in Emerald City this summer.
Whether you’re heading to the beach for some bronzing along with a good book or magazine, a splash around in the waves or to catch the latest surf, one thing’s for sure, summer beach days are the best days. What makes them even better? The right outfit and especially one that will take you from beach to backyard or bonfire without a second thought. Sundresses and jumpsuits that ooze style and match your swimsuit perfectly, will take you from day to night in an instant, while keeping it California-casual at all times. Lightweight fabrics, cute prints and bold colors are the name of the game, pulled together with perfect accessories. A lightweight robe or kimono is a great cover-up for the beach if you want to wear something that shows off your outfit, but also allows for some coverage. Easy slide-on sandals or cute flip flops complete the look.
Make things easier on yourself by wearing a onepiece that can double as a top if you’re planning on dining at a nearby restaurant during a midday sun break between paddle boarding and then hitting the pool. Throw on cute on-trend highwaisted shorts with a lightweight knit over your swimsuit and you’ll be ready to paddle, swim, sunbathe, and go! Been in the water all day and then meeting family or friends? Statement hat and accessories to the rescue!
Never underestimate a classic white button-down, especially if you’re looking for something that’s easy to change in and out of and use as a cute cover-up with a twist. It exudes simple, effortless style and doubles up for day or evening activities. Plus, you get to spice things up with accessories, add a statement hat and purse and you’re ready to move onto the fire pit or outdoor dinner. Cozy knits are a great addition to your shorts or skirts to keep you warm when the temperatures dip down at night and you still want to look stylish.
Emerald City is a local, family-owned surf shop that prides itself on a true Southern California experience, with a wide selection of apparel, surf and skate equipment, and industry leading accessories. This shop was created by surfers, is operated by surfers, caters to surfers, and has an impressive price-matching policy. For more information on Emma or STYLE ON THE GO, visit MyStyleOnTheGo.com Follow for more style tips on Instagram @emmajanestylistwears and @mystyleonthego Emma Jane Wellings is a local fashion expert, international wardrobe stylist and co-founder of STYLE ON THE GO, based in Coronado. CREDITS: Photos: Spring Dyer Photography (Coronado local) Model: Lexi Dyer | Stylist: Emma Jane Wellings CROWNCITYMAGAZINE.COM
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CO M M U N I T Y | 2 0 2 0 S U R F P H OTO CO N T E ST
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AUGUST 2020
Blair Austin
of Nick Barringer
Daron Case
at the Coronado Cays
Blair Austin
of Nick Barringer
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Blair Austin
Jonathon Dente
of Nick Barringer
in Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico
Cheryl Heaslett
of Sherril Alstadt at a Life Rolls On event
Daron Case
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in North Sumatra, on a wave called Teabags
Steve Johnson
of two girls surfing in the Cays
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Bryan Guter
of his son Luke in Sayulita, Mexico
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AUGUST 2020
Anthony Aiello
taken by Joseph Williamson
Thank you to everyone who submitted photos this year. All photos submitted get the chance to be published in Crown City Magazine and participants enter to win prizes from local contest sponsors. We’d like to thank our 2020 Surf Photo Contest sponsors Emerald City Surf Shop, Coronado Surfing Association and Coronado Surfing Academy for supporting the contest and celebrating the local surfing community with us again this year.
Patrick Erskine
of Aaron Wonders
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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID SAN DIEGO, CA PERMIT 906
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Art by CHS Senior Shannon McLaughlin Local resident Andrea Giraldi snapped this shot of her 7-year-old son, Max Giraldi, on his first day of learning how to surf at Stan’s Beach in front of the Coronado Shores. Photo was submitted in the 2nd Annual 2020 SURF Photo Contest.
“The best surfer out there is the one having the most fun.” — PHIL EDWARDS