Benicia Magazine August 2022 Issue

Summertime’s BEST OUTDOOR SPORTS Benicia’s Second Annual

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Benicia Magazine is published monthly by Benicia Publishing, LLC. Copyright © 2021, all rights reserved.

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Contents August 2022

Second Annual Dog Festival

16

Summer Sports

18

a cause for paws

from tame to extreme

27

11

Brandon Britton

24

22 20 6 • Benicia Magazine

Cover: Photo by Luke George

Departments Columns 8 From the editor 26 Picket Fences The next chapter

28 Booktails

Yerba Buena by Nina LaCour

30 Dinner and a Movie

Professional mobile pet grooming Professional salon pet grooming Premium Dog & Cat Food

Gracie goes on a field trip!

Mankas Grill and Ride

Around Town COMMUNITY 10 Cody Roadie — A dog’s tail

www.FeathererPet.com 1202 East 5th Street, Benicia 707.745.5016

11 F itness — Don’t underestimate walking 14 R edwood Trees

Drs. Carney, Campbell, Vitakes and Lim

14 D ragon Dash — Robert Semple succeeds 15

Events Calendar

20 B USD’s new superintendent Dr. Damon Wright (Ed.D.)

27 R elay for life —

Wishing for a world of more birthdays

BENICIA BUSINESS 12 Featherer Pet — A family affair HIDDEN BENICIA 21 In memory of Ruby FOOD AND DRINK 22 Bar None – Bad Harriet’s Bar The Aviation

ART SCENE 24 Secret Gardens — Beth Winfield at Benicia Plein Air Gallery

As a team, Drs. Carney, Campbell, Vitakes and Lim, have over 125 combined years of experience in all phases of general dentistry and orthodontics.

164 East H Street, Benicia, CA 94510 707. 745-1994 | beniciaparadocs.com BeniciaMagazine.com • 7

column Editor's letter

Dog Days FROM THE EDITOR August heralds our annual dog issue; our excuse to send a little extra love to our furry companions. In light of that, I’ll share about my two dogs, Afa and Rhino.

Afa is an almost 9 yearold German Shepard/Husky mix. My partner has had her since she was a puppy.

She’s nearly 90 pounds of white fluff who prefers to lounge on a cool tile or hardwood floor for as long as you’ll let her – she’s been affectionately nick-named “the rug.” A simple dog, she enjoys breakfast, dinner, any and all snacks you’ll give her in-between (so long as she

doesn’t have to work too hard for them), and her daily walk.

A little over a year ago, we adopted a second dog, Rhino.

If you could imagine the opposite of Afa as I’ve described her above, you’ve got the right idea of Rhino. He’s 18 pounds of anxious chaos who can’t stop, won’t stop. At only 18-ish months, some left-over puppy energy is to be expected, but we weren’t quite prepared for the punch this little guy packs. We found out through a DNA test that he’s mostly chihuahua and cattle dog (which explains much of his behavior), mixed up with a bunch of other smallish breeds. He is darn cute and hilarious to boot.

The two of them make quite the pair. Rhino is one of the few dogs I’ve seen that can coax Afa up off the floor for some play time. To him, she’s big sis – the protector. To her, he’s an annoying yet beloved little brother. To us, they’re family, both humbling and loving. When we have a bad day, they’re always there, happy to see us. When the news of the world is a little bleak, they’re there to make us smile. So, give a little extra appreciation to your pet family, furry or otherwise, for all they do for you. And if you have any tips on taming a Rhino, I’m all ears.

—Genevieve

Summertime Blues FROM THE PUBLISHER When I was a kid, I would get a sinking feeling in my stomach when the calendar changed to August. I knew that school was just around the corner. School now starts so much earlier than back in the day, mid August just seems so soon. There’s no need to fret though. There’s plenty of sun and fun left to be had. We are blessed with summer weather well into October. Still time to get outdoors and enjoy nature and all those summer sports that we have in abundance in Benicia: hiking, biking, kayaking, swimming and for the more adventurous, what about the Outriggers club, or maybe windsurfing? Whatever your interest, there’s plenty of time and the weather is fine.

We’re coming up on the 2nd annual Dog Festival. This year it will be on October 15th. Last year the event attracted people and their dogs from far and wide. There were rave reviews on the doggie fashion show, the obstacle course and the many

other events that happened throughout the day. This year the festival will include part of First Street and will include food and beverages and music. The beach will be open for pets to run off leash if they wish. This event is a fundraiser for animals who are injured or displaced due to natural disasters, such as wildfire.

It's true that there are many very unpleasant things happening in our world and it’s difficult to keep positive and even more difficult to be unaffected by the daily onslaught and the grim roll out of the news. It wears on you. Summertime blues is very real and unfortunately not exclusive to summer. Try to balance each day by doing something kind for yourself, your neighbor, and your world.

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PEACE OUT.

—Mary beniciamagazine

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around town Community

Cody, A Dog’s Tail submitted by Jon Fowkes on behalf of

Cody Roadie

Traveling is all I’ve known, ever since I was adopted when I was just 10 weeks old. Being a New Year’s baby, I became part of a new family on St. Patrick’s Day. Though I won no awards by being the

I’m not sure why people do that, it must be because they say I’m just adorable.

My biological father was a Yorkie, and my birth mother was a poodle. They call me a Yorkie Poo. Oh, did I mention

he can count Hawaii since he sailed there in a sailboat. I understand all about sailboats because I’ve gone sailing in San Francisco Bay, but I digress. Yes, I was explaining the states I haven’t seen, Alaska, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and Maine. You ask, “What? Maine, but you’ve been to Vermont and New Hampshire?” I understand geography, don’t ask me why, I wasn’t driving!

Let me introduce myself, I’m Cody but everyone calls me Cody Roadie.

first born in the year 2021, or have any Irish blood, that I know of, my life quickly became one of a nomad. I understand that this is a new thing, traveling around the country in something called a Sprinter Van. My adopted parents call our van Liberte, or Libby for short, I simply call it home because it is about the only home I have experienced for the past 16 months. That’s right, I’ve only lived on this planet for the past 18 months and I have traveled to 44 different states.

Well technically, it has been 43 states and the District of Columbia, but my daddy says it should be a state because it has a larger population than the state he was born in and lived most of his life.

Yes, I have been to that state, in fact my name is Cody, after Cody Wyoming, and I can safely say that there are lots of open spaces out there, but not so many people. I know this because I really like people and there weren’t very many around there to fawn over me.

10 • Benicia Magazine

I’m a puppy? Let me introduce myself, I’m Cody but everyone calls me Cody Roadie.

It is my understanding that I’m very fortunate to have traveled to so many states in this great country. Most folks are not this fortunate their entire life, let alone in their first 18 months. I’ve even been told that many never even leave the state they were born in. That just seems so foreign to me because I haven’t experienced anything but traveling. It would be much easier to tell you the states I haven’t been in than to list all the states that I have. Mommy and Daddy say that they want both Libby and me to visit all 50 states – of course, counting DC as a state – so I guess I will be seeing 6 more in my future. I know what you are going to say, “there are 50 states and the District of Columbia,” but my response is, “silly you, Libby can’t drive to Hawaii, so it doesn’t count.”

Daddy jokes about that though, he says

My travels through these 44 states involved 4 trips, 3 last year and 1 this year. I was so young last year during those 3 trips I have a poor memory of all the great experiences we had. As a result, this year, I decided to keep a strong mental note on our travels, so I won’t forget all those great times. Since I didn’t have the time or the opportunity to write all of this down while we were traveling, I have decided to do so now in the form of a blog, where I will post chapters along the way as if you are experiencing it in real time. Daddy said he will set up a site on the Internet for me where I can post those chapters as I write them, and you can follow along if you wish. So please join us in our travels across this great country. As we progress, I will include information about the other places we traveled because there will be memories that will be triggered along the way. Hopefully by the end I can tell you some stories involving all the states. I think you will like it from a dog’s perspective, we tend to be more observant; after all, smelling is a really strong sense. B

around town Community

Fitness for All Walks of Life Don’t underestimate walking n Brandon Britton

Walking often goes underestimated as an effective form of exercise. You might be surprised to hear how many benefits walking actually has on your health, overall. Harvard Medical School conducted a beautiful study around walking and obesity-promoting genes.

Researchers looked at the genes in over 12,000 people to determine how much these genes actually contribute to body weight. They determined that in the subjects who walked briskly for around one hour per day, the efficacy of those genes was cut in half.

So I interviewed my dad, who I know walks religiously, to hear what someone I knew had to say on the subject. He jokes as if he’s giving his Oscars speech, “First, I’d like to thank my dog… for holding m e

accountable. She makes sure I get at least five miles in.” He goes on to elaborate in a more serious manner, “Walking is how I physically and mentally prepare for the day. It’s a good time for me to get in touch with my breathing, because if I don’t I’ll go the whole day feeling short of breath.” Although I wasn’t expecting to hear that from him, I was pleased to hear that his motivations were intrinsic in nature and improved not only his physical but mental health as well.

Now, mental exercise time. For a moment, picture the most iconic outdoor activity in Benicia. What comes to mind? That’s right, walking. Perhaps rivaled by dining leisurely at an outdoor patio. We have such a wonderful downtown heartbeat it's hard to beat a nice walk down First. Walking, although elementary, has incredible benefits to chronic illness and health in general.

Now consider this, each block is a new adventure in our downtown. A walk can begin with an intent and that intent can inevitably change at a moment's notice. Have you ever tried to visit all the memorial benches on first street?

Or stopped in some of the great town staples like Avant Garden or the picnic tables on F Street near the water?

A nice walk would lead to checking off some of these boxes.

In my practice, I feel obligated to pay attention to the trends in the world of fitness. One of my mentors used to say, “fitness trends come and go, but being fit never goes out of style.” As a practitioner of a trend popularized in the early ‘90s – Spinning, which I have found to be one of my favorite ways to exercise — there’s some respect I give to trends. They can serve as a gateway to introduce new exercisers to the world of fitness by appealing to a niche interest. And the reigning champion of gateway fitness modalities that is often overlooked is walking and if it appeals to you, I’ll see you out there; I’ll be up and down first street with a cute AussieHusky mix. B

According to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults with chronic conditions should do at least 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity weekly, if able.

This would include walks that improve blood flow and have been proven to lower blood pressure.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 11

around town Business

Featherer Pet A Family Affair

Like our small town, this decades-old Benicia business has an interesting history n Caitlin McCulloch

Featherer Pet has been a Benicia staple since 1983. Their current location with pet grooming and animal supplies is located on East 5th Street, but they didn’t start there—or even grooming dogs. Sisters and co-owners Karen Hubbard and Kim Duchene gave me the scoop.

“Our grandmother was showing miniature schnauzers at the time and saw an ad in a dog magazine for a sliding glass pet door,” Hubbard says. “She decided to drive out to this woman’s home and go see these pet doors. Our mom decided she wanted to go, too.

She thought ‘if she can sell pet doors out of her house, so can I.’ So the business started out as selling these pet doors through mail orders out of our garage.”

As the business grew, they opened up a small showroom on First Street.

They hopped around for a bit, including a space in the Raley’s shopping center, which held things like tropical fish in the front and grooming in the back.

Along the way, the family has listened to their market and the times to have the best possible experience for themselves and for their clients. The tropical fish tanks dropped when the 2008 bubble burst, but they realized that no matter what items weren’t selling or customers didn’t want to spend money on, people still prioritized grooming their pets. This 12 • Benicia Magazine

became the focus of the business model and, over time, the family discovered they needed more groomers. Karen, who had been fascinated in watching the schnauzers being groomed at the dog shows since the age of 12 or 13 and had been trained by a mentor at the shows, volunteered to take the position.

“My mom asked me, ‘do you really want to do it? It’s dirty work!’ and I said ‘yes, I’ll do it,’” says Hubbard.

Down the line, Duchene and Hubbard’s mother Delores sadly became ill and a tough choice had to be made about Featherer Pet. “Dad said, ’you can either take it on and continue it or we can close it,’” says Hubbard. “We wanted to make sure we had this to continue on for our mom. We wanted to continue her legacy.”

Duchene stepped up to help out, leaving behind her corporate accounting job to focus on things like Featherer Pet’s bookkeeping and ordering of supplies. The two sisters still own the business today, and what started with four employees has grown to about a dozen.

Within their grooming business model now, there’s still room to continue that growth and to add new things. Pet parents wanting fun colors for their fur babies became a fun trend, and they still offer this creative color service using non-toxic dye (staff members go to specialty classes to ensure they’re

safely trained, too). Featherer Pet would eventually like to move to an online shopping experience for pet products so that customers don’t have to drive down to the store, but for now, a big opportunity has come in the form of their mobile van.

“We’ve had the van since November 2014, but mobile grooming took off during the pandemic,” Hubbard says.

“It was helpful to have it; when people didn't want to come out to the store, the mobile van could still go out to groom their pets.”

No matter which new ventures the close-knit family business embarks on next, their love for their community will remain unwavering.

“What I love about Benicia is its beauty…being on the water and watching the sunsets. It’s just a beautiful place to live and to work,” says Duchene.

“I love the small town community and how we are a pet friendly city,” adds Hubbard. “Benicia is a beautiful waterfront town full of history, wonderful people and businesses. Who wouldn't want to be here?”

Featherer Pet is currently open Tuesday-Saturday from 9:00am-5:00pm.

To book an appointment in their shop, please call 707.745.5016; for the mobile van, call 707.771.6091. B

around town Art Scene

Celebrating 20 years in Benicia

990 Grant St. Benicia, CA 94510

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Advertorial

Robert Semp Dragon Dash

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the about your redwoods

A community “thank you”

n Sexy Trees I've recently visited several clients who have concerns about the state of their redwood trees. Let's face it, these amazing trees should have never been planted in Contra Costa.

Redwoods require fog and drain-able soil, in our area we either have clay or sand stone. And to top it off the fire department is recommending to clean up organic matter off the ground for fire safety. What is one to do?

Well, I still recommend mulching under your trees so long as one keeps it moist. The sun is strong and just by having that 4" minimum layer of mulch will make a world of difference by keeping the soil cool and avoiding soil compaction.

The 2nd thing I notice when visiting is the soil is poor in nutrients and it is compacted to a level where water does not even get absorbed. You could do a simple screwdriver test, where you basically try to stick a screwdriver into the soil, if you have to put a bit of force that means your soil is compacted. Visit our website at sexytrees.com for tips and product recommendations to decompress and return nutrients to the soil.

I have helped several clients with this and the results are amazing. If you need any support with this feel free to give us a call, we can help! B

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14 • Benicia Magazine

n Robert Semple staff Coming back to in-person learning this past school year has presented many challenges as well as many inspiring moments for the Robert Semple Community. One of the most inspiring moments is our Robert Semple “Dragon Dash” Fun Run, also known as the Boosterthon.

Most schools at some point in the year utilize a fun run style fundraiser. This year, members of the RSE PTG chose to retain a higher percentage of profit from the fundraising company by taking on more event day responsibilities, such as setting up the lap course and many other responsibilities needed to host such an event.

PTG also had to acquire event day T-shirts. A Robert Semple parent who owns a local graphic design company stepped up by offering a generous discount to design and order our “Dragon Dash” event t-shirts. RSE office staff took on more responsibility this year with prize tracking and distribution. One of our Semple parents even volunteered his time and equipment to DJ and MC the event. The success of this fundraiser is thanks to a whole village of helping hands.

Boosterthon teaches millions of students across the nation about the importance of fitness, leadership and character while helping schools to raise needed funds. This year, Robert Semple made $32,384, which is a significantly higher profit than would have been earned if RSE chose to have the fundraising company provide all of the event day support.

around town Community

ple h

August

Events

August 5 | First Fridays – 19 Hand Horse 5-8pm, Benicia Historical Museum Come enjoy live music, a food truck and no-host bar.

August 6 | Shakespeare in the Park – Much Ado About Nothing 4pm, Benicia Marina Pavilion August 12 | Movies Under the Stars – Sing 2 8pm, Benicia City Park August 13 | Peddlers Fair 8am-5pm,Downtown Benicia August 27 | St. Paul’s Community Meal Fundraiser with Golden Gate Sharpening 8am-5pm St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Bring cutlery, gardening tools, and scissors that need sharpening.

Thursdays-Sundays | Live Music at Lucca's Check luccabar.com for lineup and times. B

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We are so very grateful that teachers, staff, parents and families came together to support our kids.

Robert Semple made $32,384 which was possible only because of our community, who is generous with both their time and monetary resources, including the generous contributions from local businesses whose funds paid for 100% of our T-shirt costs for 435 students.

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These amazing businesses came together to sponsor our kids, especially during these hard times!

Mayor Steve Young Valero Sandoval’s Jose’s Junk Removal RRAGS CAFE Mozart Einstein and Me

CHRIS Engine & Auto Repair ACE Will & Atlas Double Rainbow Cafe Milkman Athletics

The money we raised will fund important supplies for our students such as art supplies, STEAM supplies, playground equipment, etc. B

...IT’S A FACT!

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 15

Feature

Benicia’s Second Annual Dog Festival

The Cause for Paws n Genevieve Hand It’s no big secret that Benicia is a dog-friendly town. We could expound lengthily about all the dog-friendly amenities Benicia has to offer. However, until recently, there was one thing our town was missing: a dog festival. After the sensational success of last year’s Inaugural Dog Festival, we are happy to report that it is returning in October as the Second Annual Benicia Dog Festival.

Many of last year’s crowd-pleasing events will be making a comeback, such as the dog agility course, police dog demonstrations, and dog fashion show.

There will also be some differences. Last year’s event drew dog-lovers and their pooches from Benicia and surrounding cities who packed the First Street Green. This year, the City has granted an expansion of the festival onto First

Street, allowing food and drink vendors in addition to the merchandise vendors, pet adoption, and microchipping stations.

The red carpet for the fashion show will run along the pier parking lot at the end of First Street and in the roundabout, there will be a stage with live music. The beach along First Street will be open for dogs to enjoy off-leash – leashes will still be required everywhere else.

Beyond the popular success of last year’s Inaugural Dog Festival, it also was successful in fulfilling its greater purpose: raising money for emergency pet rescue organizations. The event founders, Gaul Culley and Kelly Dillingham hold this goal dear as they were moved by the displacement and endangerment of so many pets and other animals during the catastrophic California wildfires in recent years. They established a 501(c)(3) nonprofit through the Solano

Association of Realtors specifically to support the organizations that provide care for animals during natural disasters.

Approximately $30k was raised last year, all of which is made available to rescue organizations within 24 hours of an emergency.

Many of last year’s crowd-pleasing events will be making a comeback, such as the dog agility course, police dog demonstrations, and dog fashion show.

16 • Benicia Magazine

Those who attended last year’s festival enjoyed not only a convivial atmosphere for human and canine alike, but some also came away from the event with more than a good feeling. Pet adoptions took place and are planned to take place again at this year’s festival. One attendee, Linh Pham provided us her experience of having found a new best friend last year:

Boba's Story Saturday October 15th, 2022

My husband and I heard about the Benicia Dog Festival and decided it would be a nice opportunity to get out for some fresh air. We also joked about how funny it would be if we came home with a dog. The festival was amazing.

There were tons of vendors and pet owners out having a great time.

We came across the Rocket Dog Rescue booth, which had puppies and kitties available for adopting. Like everyone else, we just wanted to pick them up and play. But one dog was not like the others. He wasn’t hyper, just super chill, relaxed, and very cuddly.

We instantly fell in love. Unlike my husband who grew up with pets, I had never owned a pet. We hadn’t come to the festival expecting to adopt, but we decided that having a furry friend to hang out with while working from home

and as a deterrent for intruders would be a good idea. Rocket Dog made the adoption process quick, easy, and painless. Within 30 minutes, we were walking away with a new family member we renamed Boba.

There was an adjustment period, but we wouldn’t trade him for the world.

Boba is far from the guard dog we thought he would be. He’s scared of everything but will follow you anywhere and gets into everything. He doesn’t bark when guests come over but is excited for new friends to play with and cries when they leave. He’s highenergy, yet puts himself to sleep at 8:30 every night. To say that we rescued him from an unfortunate situation may be true, but he is the one that makes our lives complete.

The Second Annual Benicia Dog Festival is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 15th, 2022. At the time of this writing, event organizers are hoping to expand the festivities into the week leading up to the festival with fun meetups and dog-friendly happy hours. The festival is still accepting vendors, sponsors, donors, and volunteers for this year’s event. You can find out more about the festival and how you can get involved at beniciadogfestival.com. Vendor fees and donations are tax deductible. B

BeniciaMagazine.com • 17

Feature

Take advantage of the long

Benicia summer n Mary Hand Outdoor sports and summer seem to go hand in hand. The weather is warm, and daylight lasts and lasts. So, let’s go outside and enjoy the summer by engaging in some of the many summer sports.

Benicia is a summertime town with its many parks, trails, and access to the water. Summer sports thrive here.

Whether you want to try something a

Baseball

little more extreme

Whether professional or amateur, there’s no disputing that baseball is the most popular sport of summer. There's a reason baseball is often referred to as "America's favorite pastime." It's fun — and not just fun to watch.

Head to an open field with friends, or sign up for a recreational league. A’s fan or Giants fan, take time to head out to the ballpark for peanuts, popcorn and crackerjacks, and a sublime summer outing.

like windsurfing, or simply walk or bike around town, there’s a reason for everyone to get outside. So let’s explore the possibilities.

Hiking and Biking

Summer offers plenty of opportunities to grab your bike and take a leisurely, scenic ride or use your two wheels to get where you need to go while enjoying the weather in the process.

Benicia offers many beautiful areas to ride, through neighborhoods or on designated bike trails like the Benicia Marsh Loop trail. For those who like a little more thrill, there is Rockville Hills Park in Fairfield. Hikers, mountain bikers, and families enjoy native trees and plants, and rock formations with more than 30 miles of tracks, trails, and picnic areas.

18 • Benicia Magazine

Kiteboarding, windsurfing

Sherman Island: For the more adventurous, there’s Sherman Island, which is about 35 miles from Benicia, located at the point where the Sacramento and the San Joaquin rivers join. During the summertime, there is probably no location in North America that features more dependable wind. The waters around Sherman Island are better left to experienced kiteboarders and windsurfers, but it’s thrilling to watch them. You can take lessons and rent equipment at several shops around Rio Vista.

Swimming Tennis and Pickleball

Tennis is great to play outdoors, especially if you can find some friendly competition. Spend even half an hour on the court, and you'll see just how amazing a workout it is. There are two good quality, lighted public courts in downtown Benicia at 151 E. K Street. And of course, there’s Pickleball. This sport combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It appeals to people of all ages and ability levels but is one of the fastest growing sports for ages 50+ for its social aspects and the ability to stay active in a fun sport. Pickleball is offered on a drop-in basis at both the Benicia Community Center (one court) and the Benicia City Gym (2 courts). Outdoor Pickleball courts are available at the Benicia Community Park, located in the roller hockey rink between the skate park and the dog park.

Swimming is a great way to get active in the water — especially if you can't stand the idea of sweating it out on land on a scorching summer day. The James Lemos Swim Center offers a variety of aquatics programs including lap swim, recreation swim, water polo classes, swimming lessons, and lifeguarding classes.

Or just grab a towel and some snacks to enjoy a fun family day at the pool.

Bocce ball

Benicia Bocce League holds one season per year, running roughly from May to September. “The game of bocce fits very well with the lifestyle in Benicia. It's about gathering with friends, in our great weather, to play a casual game and have fun. It's also a very accessible sport. Players of all ages can compete with each other, without age-related attributes like strength and agility getting in the way.”

— Matt DeClaire.

Outriggers, windsurfers and kayaking

Benicia 9th Street Park, from the 9th Street Park boat launch you can indulge in many different water sports. The Outrigger Club practices on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday. They accept people of all experience levels and have many events and races. Windsurfing off 9th Street is another favorite; the conditions are great for exciting sailing. Paddleboarding is an easier water sport, you can either sit or stand while plying the shores of Benicia. There are many areas to launch a kayak, but 9th Street Park remains the favorite.

There’s nothing more fun and relaxing than getting out on the water on a hot summer day. B

Since summer lasts well into October in our area, there’s plenty of time to get out there and enjoy the summer. See you out there.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 19

around town Community

On We Go

BUSD and Community Welcomes Superintendent, Dr. Damon Wright (Ed.D.) n Dr. Gethsemane Moss (Ed.D.) On May 18, 2022, the Benicia Unified School District (BUSD) Board of Trustees selected Dr. Damon Wright as the District's new Superintendent, effective July 1, 2022. Following an extensive search and selection process lasting over four months, the board unanimously agreed to move Dr. Wright forward in the approval process. Dr. Wright came before the board during the May 26 regularly scheduled school board meeting. He succeeds Superintendent Dr. Charles Young, who retired on June 30, 2022.

The hiring of a new school superintendent can be a lengthy event. The approval process included a validation visit to Dr. Wright's former school district, Fairfield Suisun Unified School District. Dr. Wright received gleaming reviews from colleagues, from the Superintendent to the Executive Assistants, including certificated and classified staff members, union presidents for certificated and classified staff members, site administrators, and District Office Directors. Staff members described their experiences working with Dr. Wright: "personable, transparent, thoughtful, supportive, problem solver, organized, understands and supports athletics, and professional."

Dr. Wright is not new to the Benicia community, having served as a former Principal at Benicia High School. His current role is the Director of Human Resources for Fairfield Suisun Unified School District. He has held other positions, such as the Executive Director of Secondary Education in Napa Valley Unified School District and formerly in San Ramon Valley Unified School District and San Diego Unified School District.

Dr. Wright has great plans as the new Superintendent and shared some ideas for his first 100 days in office with goals and action steps moving forward, such as meeting regularly with school board members, school site leadership, certificated and classified staff, students, parents and the community of Benicia.

Dr. Wright also has plans to ensure communication, transparency, and organizational effectiveness for BUSD,

20 • Benicia Magazine

their active participation in District programs. Enculturating equity and social-emotional learning practices throughout our District is vital to programmatic growth. Reflecting on my tenure as Superintendent of BUSD, I want to see substantial progress in closing opportunity gaps, particularly in literacy and STEAM. While BUSD students achieve high levels and are socially adjusted, we are responsible for providing structures and programs inclusive of ALL students.

“Change will not come if we wait for some other person or if we wait for some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”

— President Barack Obama which includes school safety and student achievement.

Dr. Wright answered three critical questions about the recruitment and retention of educators and his inspiration as an educator as the District prepares for the 2022-23 school years: Q: What do you hope to accomplish as Superintendent for BUSD? A: BUSD is an outstanding District and has historically provided exceptional programs for students.

As Superintendent, I want to continue the tradition of excellence through a holistic approach to education. I first want to expand upon the existing relationships within our community and industry partners. Our stakeholders are essential, and we want to increase

Q: When did you first discover your desire to become an educator?

A: I had an epiphany while working as a Probation Officer in correctional institutions. Engaging in conversations with inmates/detainees was part of my practice. In our discussions, most inmates/detainees attributed grade school experiences as catalysts for incarceration. I wanted to serve on the other side of the "school-to-prison pipeline" by supporting individuals in their freedom. I immediately enrolled in a graduate program and earned my Master's in School Counseling.

Q: What can be done to encourage more young people, especially males, to enter the education field?

A: School districts must take the initiative and actively search, find and encourage young people to enter the profession.

Public education is experiencing teacher shortages that are impacting classrooms across the country. What was once a challenge to recruit teachers who matched ethnic, gender, and linguistic demographics, is now a challenge to find people entering the profession. School districts can shift this paradigm by establishing "grow your own programs."

Districts can recruit, support, and mentor prospective candidates into considering a career in public education.

Dr. Wright's extensive education includes a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Brandman University, a Master of Science in School Counseling from National University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University, Sacramento. B

around town Hidden Benicia

Goodbye to Ruby She was our pet, ”and I once thought

her life revolved around us.

But now I realize that

our lives revolved around her. ”

n Kevin Nelson Within the larger community of Benicia there are many smaller communities.

One of them is the community of people who have dogs and love them.

Every day we would see a neighbor of ours walking on our street with his black lab named Nigel. He and Nigel were as regular as the sunrise. They walked two, even three times a day.

Then one morning I saw him and his wife passing by our house. But no Nigel. When I asked about him their faces transformed into portraits of grief.

“We had to put him down,” they said, unburdening themselves with the story of Nigel’s illness and sudden passing.

Our family knows how they feel. We recently had to put down our 12-yearold rescue dog, a skinny black whippetlab with white markings. When my wife relayed the news of Ruby’s death on Facebook, it drew more comments than practically anything she has ever posted.

People know. Dog people know.

When a Ruby or Nigel goes, a piece of your heart goes with them.

Death, as it so often does, struck fast. On Wednesday her belly had mysteriously swollen; on Friday my

wife took her to the vet and could not believe what she was being told: Ruby’s condition was so dire there was no need to even run tests. Her stomach was likely filled with blood, due to cancer. The best thing to do, the only thing to do really, was end her life.

My wife was in shock when she called me. She broke into tears, as did I. When I called my daughter in Los Angeles I could barely get the words out. “Manly men aren’t supposed to cry,” I stammered.

She responded, wisely, “That’s what manly men do. They cry sometimes.” Our two sons, both manly enough to cry, shed tears when they heard the news. But we put the phone up to Ruby’s ear and they were able to say their goodbyes to a companion they had grown up with.

There is a special room at our vet’s office reserved for families to spend their last minutes with their beloved animal. My wife rubbed Ruby’s back and caressed her ears as she had so many times before. We told her what a good dog she was, and that she was deeply loved. A sedative helped her to relax, and then the vet injected a greenish liquid into a vein in her leg. And sweet, skinny Ruby passed away dreaming, I hope, of running across the hills the way

she did when she was young.

Losing a dog is bad enough. What has also happened, though, is that we have lost touch with the community of dog lovers and dog walkers that we saw regularly when Ruby was part of our daily schedule. It’s another aspect of the loss you feel, a different kind of mourning.

Without Nigel needing his daily constitutional, his dog dad seldom walks by our house anymore. It’s the same with us. While my wife and I continue to exercise and walk, our schedules have changed now that Ruby is gone.

She was our pet, and I once thought her life revolved around us. But now I realize that our lives revolved around her.

I still run into fellow dog lovers from time to time. Often I don’t know the person’s name, only their dog’s: Mia, Rocky, Bogart, Ferris. Buddy is a friendly little 15-year-old white poodle, and I see him walking in the neighborhood with his devoted dog mama.

When I told her what happened to Ruby she reacted with real feeling. “Oh no,” she said. “I’m so sorry.” She knew.

People know. They know what it means to love and be loved by a dog, and how wonderful it is when your life revolves around one. B BeniciaMagazine.com • 21

around town Food and Drink

Bar None:

Bad Harriet’s Bar n Maura Sullivan I recently experienced, hands down, one of the most epic speakeasy bars in Aspen Colorado. Her name is Bad Harriet.

A few steps away from hotel Jarome, the entrance is deceiving. From an outside perspective, a beautiful woman dressed in silk sitting behind a large, refurbished desk.

The desk is bare. No computer, paperwork or phone. A door person is standing to the side of the window looking at pedestrians passing by.

As you walk in, checkered tile floors and a silent ambiance are what you see. No sign of libations or noise. The woman at the desk greets you, somehow already knowing your name. Holding an iPad and without much conversation, she leads you down a narrow staircase to the side.

As you walk down the dark, narrow tunnel, you start to see glimmers of soft amber lights, black and emerald green velvet. Your ears quickly pick up the sound of ABBA, “Dancing Queen.”

The room opens to glistening mirrors, velvet chairs and gold accents. In the distance, a kaleidoscope of colors shines behind the black antique bar top holding a variety of liquors I have no knowledge of. My curiosity sets in.

We are seated at booths whose backs tower over our heads — an intimate setting — and given a menu with a metallic font. We quickly notice this is not going to be an easy decision.

We are presented with an array of options; spiced exotic rums, rare gins and the best of the best bourbons. I am in heaven!

I can’t go with my usual and certainly can’t risk ordering something too sweet. I choose the Jump Seat, created by Jim Meehan. This cocktail may have Grey Goose, but that’s not what caught my eye. The Cocchi Americano is what grabbed my curiosity. This is not a coffee.

It’s even better! An Italian aperitif wine best known for its strong botanicals and woody aromas, a perfect addition to a dry spirit.

Following this charming, fortified wine is italicus rosolio di bergamotto, a liqueur made from rose petals; finishing off this new-aged martini with a hint of rosewater and lemon peel.

As soon as I get back from Aspen, I have to make this after-dinner pick me up myself. I don’t have all the exact ingredients and the measurements are a bit tricky to get right. I manage to find a recipe with a few more local ingredients than the three listed on the menu.

Also known as a completely different cocktail, but with the same punch and aromas. B

The Aviation

— 2 ounces gin — 3/4 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice — 2 teaspoons maras chino liqueur — Optional: 1 teaspoo n crème de violette Pour ingredients into a cock tail shaker; fill with ice, and shake well for 10 seconds.

Strain into a chilled co ck tail glass; garnish with a cherr y. For the Biplane Version of The Aviation, include crème de violette.

For Jet-Age version, lea ve it out.

22 • Benicia Magazine

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 23

around town Art Scene

Beth Winfield Shares

“Secret Gardens”

at the Benicia Plein Air Gallery “Hops grows on vines suspended upwards on strings and as you walk through you feel as though you’re in a magical forest.”

n Jean Purnell

Benicia Plein Air Gallery features “Secret Gardens,” an exhibition of garden landscapes by Beth Winfield that runs through August 28. An award-winning artist, Winfield likes to continually challenge herself by seeking out new and different subject matter for her paintings, including landscapes, still lifes, and figures. “My show is a collection of paintings of unusual gardens that most people don't get to see,” she explains. She painted Lavender Harvest at the Soul Food Farm in Vacaville and Evening in a Hops Garden at a farm along Highway 80. “Hops grows on vines suspended upwards on strings and as you walk through you feel as though you’re in a magical forest.”

Winfield also enjoys painting gardens in

24 • Benicia Magazine

New Mexico, the roses and succulents planted in front of an adobe house, or the potted flowers on the stairways. “I love spending time in the southwest, painting and exploring that landscape.”

Winfield feels drawn to painting outdoors, where the beauty of nature triggers memories of childhood summers spent outside. Her landscapes are soft, painterly, and impressionistic, infused with light and atmosphere.

“I love the fleeting light as it dances across the earth’s surface. Painting at different times of the day dynamically changes a scene. Then add to it varying weather and circumstances, and you've got thousands of opportunities to paint from.” Most of Beth’s works are painted plein air, in small sizes. “I like to finish my works in one session outdoors, otherwise, by reworking it later in the

studio, I’m afraid I may lose that fresh quality of what I saw. Sometimes I will use a smaller study done outdoors as my reference to create a larger painting later.”

Winfield joined the Benicia Plein Air Gallery in 2019. She currently splits her residence between Davis and a second home in Santa Fe, where she spends three to four months per year. She grew up in Cincinnati and lived in Scottsdale and Memphis before moving to Davis with her family in 1997. “I first got to know the gallery by participating in one of their “paint-out” competitions. I loved the gallery and the town – its lush green spaces, quaint houses, and waterfront – all picturesque places to paint. I have enjoyed exploring the city, walking up and down First Street, meeting the friendly people here. Unfortunately, COVID has made it harder to connect with people.”

Winfield’s love and talent for art were obvious at an early age. As a third grader she drew attention to her ability by spending her recess periods

covering the chalkboards in her classroom with Picasso-like drawings. “I had always loved to draw but it was not until my mother took me to see an exhibition of Picasso's work that I realized it was okay to paint outside the lines, for my work to be imperfect.”

She chose other studies in college, however, and eventually launched a career as an x-ray technologist. “College is a time of exploring and trying to figure out what you want to do.

After I graduated, I was still searching. I incorporated my love of art into a practice of redecorating old Victorians and doing faux wall painting for clients.” She continued to dabble in art until being laid up by a horseback riding accident in the year 2000. “My husband brought me paints to use while I was recuperating. That rekindled my love of art and afterward I decided to paint full-time.”

For Winfield, working to improve her painting is a joyful journey. Favorite and valued teachers include Scott Christensen and Suchitra Bhosle, among others. “Artists

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“I love the fleeting light as it dances across the earth’s surface. Painting at different times of the day dynamically changes a scene.” forever have something to learn. I'm a member of an art book club that gets together every other month.” Winfield also enjoys ceramics, needlepoint, knitting, photography, cooking and gardening, but her main love has always been painting with oil paints. “Basically, that’s all I ever think about,” she laughs.

Gallery visitors can meet the artist on Saturday, August 20, and on Saturday and Sunday, August 27-28, when she will be present at the gallery, located at 307 First Street. For more information about the artist and gallery events and hours, visit https://www.bethwinfield.com and http://www. beniciapleinair.com. B

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 25

column A (Soap Opera) mystery

s e c n e F t e Pick Previously in Picket Fences …

SPOILER ALERT: if you haven’t read July’s issue, we highly recommend doing so on beniciamagazine.com before reading this month’s issue.

Hank ended his affair with Saraya, Payton and Xavier narrowly escaped an assailant at Connie’s house, and Martin Cray stabbed his father and fled, leaving Connie and Angela in a pinch. Angela and Connie had agreed that this would be their last heist together or else Angela would unleash blackmail against Connie. n

Darrell Mcelvane

As the waters of the Benicia bay begin to calm and settle for the evening, elsewhere, the excitement is just beginning.

“That was Madalyn, It’s time to bring this event to a close,” Angela says, closing the door behind her and looking at the body at her feet. “Well, I think it’s time I take my leave and let you handle this,” Connie says, moving toward the door. “What... are you kidding me?” Angela says, blocking the door. The two women come face to face. “I don’t know why you’re acting surprised. After all, you wanted me gone, or was that stunt you pulled with the folders just that …a stunt?” Connie replies. With a calm rage coming to the surface, Angela begins to speak. “Make no mistake… I want you gone, but I’m not cleaning this up by myself, especially when you planned this,” Angela articulates, snatching the folder. “So, you’ll get this back when we are done here,” she proclaims, staring Connie down and daring her to make a move without saying a word. Connie backs down, conceding to Angela. “So ... we are going to put him in the closet and lock the door and then you and I are going to go out there and smile, make

26 • Benicia Magazine

our thank you speeches and send these guests off,” Angela verbalizes to Connie. The tension is broken with another knock at the door. “It's me, Madalyn. Hate to interrupt you, but Olivia is wanting us for speeches.”

Without breaking eye contact with Connie, Angela answers Madalyn, “Give us about five minutes.” Glancing at the closet after Madalyn leaves, she instructs Connie, “Help me put him in there. When all the guests leave, we will come back and take care of this mess.” The two women put Mr. Cray in the closet and head out to meet Olivia and Madalyn.

As the four women take the stage to make closing remarks, Olivia commands the attention of the room and announces that the fundraiser has made 100% of its goal, and more.

“We couldn’t have done it without these three women on the board with me. I’d like to give a special thanks to Madalyn Walker, who put all this together,” Olivia declares. Madalyn steps forward and Hank can be heard cheering the loudest. A heartbroken Saraya watches Hank cheer his wife on. “I'd like to say it’s an honor to be on the board with my best friend, Angela Wingate, who helped me along the way with her support,”

Madalyn says, inviting Angela to step forward. “And a new friend.. that I hope will be here for next year’s event, Connie Spalding.” “Thank you, Madalyn. With that, we hope to see you all next year,” Olivia says, dismissing the crowd.

The photographer snaps some pictures and asks for the women to call their families over for some group shots.

Every click, every flash, reminds everyone of what the evening has brought. For Angela it's fear; fear of her secrets, and how they could bring her down and destroy everything she’s built. Payton smiles trying to hide the panic of thinking his mother may not be who he’s loved his whole life and how she may be hiding something. Madalyn is desperately trying to keep it together and find her voice again. Saraya tightly clutches Xavier’s arm, trying to strike the perfect pose to show she belongs.

Olivia smiles through her disdain for Saraya being here and tries to show she is connected to her own family.

Yes, A picture can say a thousand words. And if edited correctly, can hide a myriad of imperfections. B

To be continued..

around town Community

A Community Fight Against Cancer Our impactful, local Relay for Life event is coming up soon n Caitlin McCulloch Cancer is a common enemy that we can all agree to come together and tackle to the best of our abilities. Many people have either been affected personally by cancer or know someone close to them who has been. Even if you haven’t been affected by cancer, there are easy ways to support the fight against it; our local Relay for Life event this month, which funds the American Cancer Society, is one of them.

Though these Relay for Life events

are held all over the world, supporting your local community is extra special.

Every year has a theme, and this year’s is “wishing for a world with more birthdays.” The 2022 date of the Relay for Life Benicia, Vallejo, and Napa Valley

is coming up on Saturday, August 6th at 10:00am-Sunday, August 7th at 10:00am.

It’s spearheaded by the Event Chair Kim Cooper and Co-Chair Toni Kendall; St. Patrick-St. Vincent High School will be hosting the event at their track. There will be free parking available in the high school’s parking lot.

Everyone is encouraged to join a team. Some groups are smaller while others represent businesses and local groups, including Benicia Jazzercise, Benicia Plumbing, and Soroptimist International of Benicia (they’ve proudly logged over 20 years as Relay participants). Since the event lasts for 24 hours, one challenge or goal is to have one team member walking the track at any given time.

Other than walking the track, there will be plenty to do, experience, and take in. Teams will be able to set up campsites and sell items like food, jewelry, books and arts & crafts. There will be a fashion show this year along with live music, raffles, and games. As the sun sets and the sky gets dark, Luminaria bags that line the tracks are lit up as a powerful beacon of reflection in honor of survivors, as well as a remembrance for all who have lost their lives to cancer.

Sissy Coffeen, who is involved with the Benicia Relay for Life as well as Soroptimist International of Benicia, recounts a memory from a previous year.

“During the day, I found myself eating ice cream, walking the track with my friends, then crying at the Luminaria Ceremony listening to survivors who just gave heartfelt speeches,” she says.

The day and evening portions can bring about various emotions, but all ages are absolutely welcome. 100 percent of funds raised from this event go directly to the American Cancer Society, and Coffeen shares a bit on what the proceeds are used for.

“Fighting cancer takes a lot of money,” shares Coffeen. “Such funds are used for research, free rides to chemo, lodging near hospitals, and so much more. B

Whether you’d like to dive in and join a team or would simply like to make a donation, there’s still time to do so—visit www.relayforlife.org/ beniciavallejoca to get started! If you’d like a little bit more information in the event or are interested in volunteering, please contact Sissy Coffeen directly at sissy.soroptimist@gmail.com.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 27

column Booktails

Yerba Buena

by Nina LaCour

Book and Cocktail Club

“I lost nearly everything, and then I built something better.”

28 • Benicia Magazine

n Cooper Mickelson Say hello to Booktail's first repeat author, Nina LaCour. If you enjoyed reading Watch Over Me with us last year, you'll definitely want to pick up LaCour's debut adult novel, Yerba Buena. Yerba Buena is a beautiful, modern love story, but it's also a refreshing look into how a "romance" novel doesn't have to focus solely on longing looks and stomachs full of butterflies. LaCour's newest novel is a charmingly messy coming-of-age story centered around two women struggling with emotional baggage as they work to understand themselves more intimately.

When we meet Sara Foster, she is a deeply feeling sixteen-year-old girl learning to navigate a world without her

mother. Sara's life is far from easy with an absent father, a brother who needs her support, and a secret relationship with one of the girls in her class. Things only get more complicated for Sara when her girlfriend is found dead in the Russian River. Unable to deal with the losses threatening to destroy her, Sara decides to run away. With nothing but the clothes on her back and the $300 she earned from her father's sleazy friend, Sara and a strange boy who's been living in his car begin their drive from Geurnville to Los Angeles.

Years later, Sara is a talented bartender, praised for her creative cocktails, beauty, and the air of mystery surrounding her. Across Los Angeles, Emilie DuBois is stuck in limbo. After

seven years, Emilie is on her fifth major as an undergraduate and still has no clue what she wants to do with her life. She craves beauty and the sense of community her Creole grandparents cultivated when they first arrived in California.

In a moment of spontaneity, Emilie takes a job arranging flowers at Yerba Buena, a glamorous restaurant owned by an extraordinarily wealthy and handsome married man. The two quickly embark on a tumultuous affair. One morning, while Emilie is putting together a bouquet, Sara walks through the doors of Yerba Buena. The energy between our two protagonists is electric, and their connection is immediate.

But unfortunately, the damage both Emilie and Sara carry, along with the choices they've made, interrupt their attempts at a relationship.

Just as Emilie begins to gain a sense of understanding when it comes to who she is and what she wants out of life, Sara's old life catches up to her. As readers, we are left to wonder if their love is more powerful than their pasts.

Nina LaCour's writing never disappoints. Her ability to translate intense emotion onto the page is unparalleled, and her language is exceptionally poetic, resulting in a story you'll fly through in a day or two and miss the moment you turn the final page. None of this is news to her dedicated readers, but Yerba Buena might just be my favorite LaCour novel yet.

Don't be fooled by its status as a romance novel. More than anything, Yerba Buena is about two people who fall in love with taking the ugly parts of life and transforming them into something beautiful to be shared.

Order a copy of Yerba Buena now and prepare to be inspired by descriptions of rain-soaked earth, flower blossoms, bitter sips, and perfectly spiced gumbo. Our Booktails cocktail and mocktail are basically plucked from the pages of Yerba Buena, the perfect compliment to this captivating story. B

The Good Herb INGREDIENTS 1 ounce gin 1 ounce green Chartreuse liqueur 1 ounce fresh lime juice ½ ounce simple syrup 3 dashes cherry bitters Yerba buena leaf to garnish (can be replaced by a mint leaf) PREPARATION 1. A dd the gin, Chartreuse, lime juice, cherry bitters, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Fill with ice and shake until cold.

2. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.

3. Garnish with yerba buena or mint leaf.

24 HOUR

Community Information Line:

707-745-7534 Questions? Contact:

BeniciaCommunityRelations@Valero.com

BeniciaMagazine.com • 29

column Dinner and a Movie

Gracie goes on a field trip!

RIDE and

n Gourmet Gracie and Movie Magic Not your great-granddaddy’s grill! Mankas Corner conjures up all kinds of boozy memories from back in the day. Originally a major stagecoach stop between Berryessa alley and the Suisun City port, this location was named for Christley Manka, one of the original owners in 1853. Kyle and Jason Barraza, new owners since mid-2020 are also the owners of the Napa Deli, and have definitely kicked it up a notch or two. Imaginative seasonal menus with farm to fork specialties are featured. Summer is the perfect time to take a leisurely ride to this backroad restaurant. Larry’s Produce Stand is nearby, as well as several Suisun Valley wineries. Some Yelpers say this wine country, family friendly steakhouse and seafood spot is like finding water in the desert—you can’t quite believe how good it is. Such a rare comfort to find a local, high quality, nonchain bistro with warm ambiance and character.

Try the Bacon Jam Burger—seriously delicious. Pork Belly Nachos, Prime Rib French Dip, throwback Lobster Bisque, and Gracie’s favorite: the Avocado Ceviche Tostadas along with the extraordinary Charcuterie Platter. The American Wagyu Tomahawk is legendary, bring a friend! The staff is friendly, upbeat and helpful.

30 • Benicia Magazine

The twenty fifth in a series of at home food and movie pairings.

Vegetarian options available. Menu subject to change.

Indoor dining and a charming lighted, heated outside patio with fire pit. Happy Hour between 2 – 5pm, Wednesday through Friday. World class Bloody Marys and Moscow Mules, full bar.

Wine list highlights the surrounding wineries.

Reservations recommended. Limited take out menu. Only a scenic 23 miles from Benicia!

Mankas Grill 2522 Mankas Corner Road Fairfield, CA 94534 707.428.1600 | mankasgrill.com Wed — Sun 11:30am — 8pm

YEARS 1946 ~ 2021 Continuing to Build Community

ESTEY Since 1946

Real Estate & Property Management Services

RIDE Comedy/Drama 2014 - 93 minutes Rated R for mild drug use Streaming on Amazon Prime and Apple TV Directed by Helen Hunt, starring Helen Hunt, written by Helen Hunt! Luke Wilson also stars.

A fun, heart warming movie with a little bit of romance.

It’s all about family and connection, good intentions and love. If, like us, you’re a fan of the classy Helen Hunt, this “surfing” movie will make you happy. Helen plays a mom whose college bound son is off to discover life and she’s challenged to let him go. Jackie (Helen) and her son, Angelo (Brendon Thwaites), are incredibly close. Brendon makes the trip from New York to Venice, California, to visit his Dad and then decides to drop out of college and settle on the West Coast. Jackie, a magazine editor, leaves her big job in the East and follows secretly behind. She’s determined to get a taste of her son’s new life by learning to surf—and somehow thinks that'll be easy. Ha. Surfing…learning, trying, failing and flailing—fighting the waves leads us to the movie’s message of courage and heart.

Our Helen guides us through a story centered around a complicated, yet ordinary female protagonist that is unusual in current cinema. Luke Wilson plays surf instructor, Ian, and is dependably charming and relaxed. The rhythm and grandeur of the ocean dictates the pace and tone of this movie. There’s humor and poignancy, gratitude and greatness.

Escape into a feel good beach movie with a healthy slice of life! B Movie Magic gives RIDE 3++ Moons out of 5.

707-745-0924

216 First Street, Benicia | DRE# 00674738

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 31

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