A Taste of Italy Arrives in Corona del Mar

Cugini’s Italia Boutique Market has opened its doors with a simple idea: bring the feeling of a neighborhood Italian market to the coast.

Created by partners Marcus and Toni, alongside their wives, Shereen and Lavi, the market is a true family effort rooted in years of restaurant experience and a shared love of Italian food and culture. The name “Cugini,” which means cousins in Italian, reflects both the partnership and the welcoming, family-style atmosphere they hope to create.

Everything in the shop is imported directly from Italy through a close partnership with a trusted source abroad. The result is a carefully curated selection of authentic ingredients that are not typically found in Orange County.

The shelves are filled with imported cheeses, cured meats, fresh pasta, sauces, olive oils, wines, and specialty items that rotate in from different regions of Italy. Fresh bread is baked daily, and the focaccia has quickly become a favorite.

The goal is simple: create a place that feels like stepping into a small market in Italy, where quality, tradition and community come together. Special orders are always welcome, and the team is happy to help customers find exactly what they need.

Open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. 

2515 East Coast Highway in Corona del Mar (949) 505-8886

Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage: How to Think About the Choice

One of the biggest decisions people face with Medicare is choosing between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage. There is no one size fits all answer, and the right choice depends on individual health needs, budget and lifestyle.

Original Medicare includes Part A and Part B. Many people who choose Original Medicare also add a Medicare Supplement to help cover out-of-pocket costs, along with a separate Part D prescription drug plan. This option can offer more flexibility when it comes to seeing doctors nationwide who accept Medicare, which can be appealing for people who travel frequently or split time between different locations.

Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies and bundle Part A and Part B into one plan, often including prescription drug coverage and extra benefits such as dental, vision and hearing. These plans may have lower monthly premiums but typically use provider networks and may involve copays for services.

Both options can provide solid coverage, but they work differently. The key is understanding how each type of plan fits into your personal health needs and financial comfort level.

If you are helping a family member sort through these choices, or beginning to explore your own options, having clear information can make a big difference. Questions are always welcome.

Greer Wylder
Wylder Insurance
Office 949.300.8713
greerwylder@gmail.com
Licensed Insurance Agent, CA License #4354817

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent five organizations  which offer 49 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Newport Beach Goes for a World Record at Balboa Pier

Visit Newport Beach is inviting the community and visitors to Balboa Pier on Sunday, April 19, for an attempt to break the Guinness World Records title for the World’s Largest Swing Dance Lesson.

The free event takes place at Peninsula Park Athletic Field on the Balboa Peninsula, just steps from where the Balboa Swing style was born at the legendary Rendezvous Ballroom in the 1930s. To set the record, more than 391 pairs, or 782 people, will need to take part in a single lesson together.

Check-in begins at 10 a.m., with the official record attempt scheduled from 11:15 to 11:45 a.m. Instruction will be led by Atomic Ballroom, with live music from Jonathan Stout Orchestra featuring Hilary Alexander. A certified Guinness World Records adjudicator will be on site to verify the attempt.

Participants can attend solo or with a partner, and those arriving alone can be matched on site. No dance experience is required, and the event is open to ages 13 and up. After the lesson, guests can stay to enjoy live music, food trucks, giveaways and more.

The event is free and open to the public. Reservations are encouraged here for those who want to be part of the record attempt.

Peninsula Park Athletic Field, Balboa Peninsula, Newport Beach.