Column Editor's letter
Best friends The August issue of Benicia Magazine is dedicated to our furry friends and to Benicia’s status as one of the top “dog towns” in the country. Dogs are often called man’s best friend and, for many during the pandemic, that adage never rang truer. The isolation many people felt during the pandemic led to a need for companionship of a pet. Dogs and cats were adopted in great numbers, in fact pet adoptions increased over 35% and, for a while, adoptable pets were in very short supply. Having a pet provided companionship, emotional support and a sense of security. Some owners say their pets have helped them feel a sense of purpose and reduced their depression. One of the events that was canceled due to Covid restrictions was the first annual Benicia Dog Festival, which was slated for August of 2020. The festival has been rescheduled for October 17, 2021, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the First Street Green. The event will include dog agility contests, a pet parade, dog adoptions, vendor booths and music. The event is a collaboration between the Benicia Police Department and The Solano Association of Realtors Foundation and is sponsored by Valero. Should be great fun! While dogs and pets are wonderful companions, I would like to write about our human friendships. Last month a person who was a friend to me and to many others, as well as a leader in our community, died suddenly. Deb Machado lived a full life, she was a mom, grandmother, and wife and partner to Rob. She was philanthropic, a member of Soroptimist, owner of Romancing the Home, a vibrant and involved citizen of Benicia. And she was the best friend of Penny Stell. I’m sure many of you have a best friend, whether lifelong or fairly new. That person with whom you just “click.” Deb and Penny had that kind of connection. They worked together, planned together, traveled, played and laughed together. Penny has posted many photos of their adventures since Deb’s passing and I have enjoyed them all.
Mary
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Deb & Penny
