Benicia Magazine May 2017

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Bob Ecker explores Hwy 128's tiny towns & area attractions

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Connecting heart and mind: Mary Oros' strong, graceful sculptures

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VOLUME 12 ISSUE 7

12

IN EVERY ISSUE

FEATURES

10 From the Editor

16

12 Currents Benicia to participate once again at Sunset Celebration Weekend (12) A third art gallery along the waterfront as HQ Gallery relocates (12)

Kite flying season ushered in on Benicia’s spring breeze (15)

Readying family bicycles for safe, enjoyable spring rides (14)

13 Bio

Elaine Ponziani-Seput, singer, gardener, grandmother, volunteer

23 'Concrete coutour'—a fitting description for artist Mary Oros' work 24 Interview

Working with homeless animals feeds Peggy Hartig's soul

Rediscovering First Street, Part 3

18

A fast car & area entertainments make for a fun road trip along Hwy 128

20

Patriotic Memorial Day service at Benicia Post Arsenal Cemetary

26 Trends

Benicia’s investment in tourism pays off in spades

28 Calendar of Events

The best events in Benicia and around the Bay

8 • Benicia Magazine

Cover photo: Periwinkle Waft, concrete,

by Mary Oros, 32” x 28.5” x 21.5”

Photos, left to right: 2016 Memorial Day celebration, by Wally Stephens; center, Road trip along Highway 128, by Bob Ecker; left, Pisolithus Arrhizus, by Mark Bremmer

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FROM THE EDITOR

May 2017 I’m always captivated by Benicia’s seasonal beauty. I used to love fall, but each season here offers such distinctive appeal that I can no longer claim a favorite.

As I write in early April, fog clings to still green hillsides, striking a soft, romantic note that invites curling up for a good read—my favorite pastime. This month’s articles provide me with perfect opportunity to do just that, with final looks at the May issue’s finished pieces. Here’s a big shout-out to our writers, who engage us each month with their wit and passion. Enjoy their stories that include kite flying, bicycle maintenance, our ongoing block by block on First Street feature, art, tourism, travel and more.

Tweet, post or send your suggestions & ideas to: editor@beniciamagazine.com beniciamagazine.com

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Lisa Duncan Photography

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Feedback (from the website) “I remember Lowell 47 years ago at Brooks Institute. He drove his green convertible MG sports car with large paintings tied on top, what a sight! His studio was a barn on the mesa in Santa Barbara. One painting of his I admired and I believe it was connected with a popular song back in those days "Dead Skunk in the Middle of the Road." It was a brilliant work, yellow background and expressive brush strokes of varied color in the center. I'm glad to know he has led a beautiful life.”

—C. Ann Howard I wanted to say thank you for the excellent article by Sarah Rohrs about our Friends’ upcoming milestone of raising $1 million for the library.” ­—­David Dodd, Director, Benicia Public Library Mike (Kendall) inspires and touches every person who knows or does not know him.

He always displays such compassion in his art.

—Marla S I had the most amazing dinner out last night, at a place I think you should check out for your magazine. Benicia chef Michael Warring and his wife have a restaurant in Hiddenbrooke named Michael Warring. The food, presentation and service were over the top. The fact that they are Benicians would be an interesting topic. Between the two of them, there's a good pedigree of experience.

—Gary Wheeler 10 • Benicia Magazine

May 6 - 20th

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Visit us online: Ironhorsehome.com Facebook.com/ironhorsehome BeniciaMagazine.com • 11

CUR R ENTS

Promoting Benicia’s Attractions at Sunset Celebration Weekend

By Sarah Rohrs Courtesy photos A toast to good living, the annual Sunset Weekend Celebration has found a new home within Sonoma Valley’s scenic vineyards.

The renowned event features fine food and drink, and everything under the sun in colorful, healthy and stylish Western living.

For the second year running, the event unfolds at Cornerstone Sonoma, billed as a wine country marketplace, featuring worldclass shopping, boutique wineries and tasting rooms, artisanal foods and highly creative architectural gardens. Cornerstone is also home to Sunset's Gardens and Outdoor Test Kitchen.

HQ Gallery Moves to Downtown Benicia HQ Gallery

HqGallery.net 333 First Street, Benicia Grand opening at new location: Friday, May 5th, 12-6pm Open during Artists Open Studios Saturday & Sunday May 6 & 7, 10am-5pm

12 • Benicia Magazine Currents

Photos: Top, by Susan Street, bottom, by Sandy Kovalcik HQ Gallery, founded by longtime Benicia artist Susan Street, is moving to First Street.

The gallery opened exactly a year ago in the upper Benicia Arsenal (Benicia Magazine covered the opening and you can find the article online). Street has been looking for the right spot on First Street to bring more traffic into the gallery. She says, “We hope to attract a significant amount of foot traffic, as well as add another Gallery to First Street very near Benicia Plein Air and Gallery 621. It is also a totally remodeled, clean, freshly painted and larger space.”

In addition to a new space, HQ is bringing in a new group of artists, adding to the mix of both new and established artists. “We have about ten new artists, the returning initial artists and five printmakers, which will add a new dimension to our gallery. The span of talent is wonderful. Watercolor, oils, acrylics, stone, clayworks, mixed media, needlework, Asian influenced watercolors, figure paintings that will tickle you, graphite drawings that will astound—and all the artists that are looking forward to being seen,” says Street. The work of the five printmakers will also be available for purchase in a bin, which is exciting, says Street, because many printmakers don’t have places to display their work.

The move will be completed just in time for the gallery to participate in the annual Benicia Artist Open Studios, May 6 & 7. HQ Gallery will be open 10am-5pm both days with food, libations, music and excitement. “The level of enthusiasm and positive attitude is high and we are looking forward to being part of the First Street art scene. We are joyously awaiting Open Studios and invite all our friends, families, patrons and the community to join us.”

The May 20-21 event promises to draw legions of Sunset fans plus celebrity chefs, craft beer brewers, gardening and lifestyle experts. One featured exhibit is designed to help people give their house a higher IQ with an array of smart home technology. The Sunset “Smart Cottage” will show a high-tech home can be tasteful, attractive and functional. A team of designers and tech providers will transform a classic 900-square-foot cottage on the property with a sleek style that has all the latest gadgetry. Nearby the cottage, a “Smart Trailer,” a special edition Tommy Bahama Airstream, will feature easy-to-install smart devices that run on batteries.

The Sunset Weekend Celebration may seem a bit “worlds away,” but the event is close enough to Benicia that a team of city staffers and volunteers will be on hand. As part of the travel section, the Benicia booth is all about encouraging people to visit under the theme of “Benicia: It’s closer than you think,” said city Economic Development Specialist Teri Davena. The weekend event is a fun way to meet people and tell them all about Benicia. “A lot of people at the booths just sit there and scroll through their phones. Not us. We step outside of our booth and engage with people. We ask them if they have ever been to Benicia,” she said.

People who have already visited Benicia are encouraged to come again, while newcomers are shown how close and easy it is to reach. Every person who comes by the booth gets a lens cloth with a map showing how to get to Benicia.

A drawing is held both days for enormous baskets full of

treasures from local stores, too. The winners don’t need to be present to accept the prizes but they do need to promise to visit Benicia. “We meet a lot of people and they are always very nice and complimentary about Benicia,” said Davena.

People come from all over Solano, Napa and Sonoma counties and from Sacramento to soak up the scene.

Besides the “Smart Cottage,” the event will also shine a light on “glamping,” a new word to describe glamorous camping. Under three white canvas teepees an array of summer camp-style activities and food will be offered, such as gourmet s’mores, along with inspiration and tips for cooking and sleeping under the stars. People can then head over to the Live Fire cooking stage to watch chefs from “Dirty Gourmet,” a group that came into being to rethink food in the outdoors. Tickets are now on sale for the 19th annual weekend activities. Online tickets, plus a schedule of presenters and events, and event information are available at sunset.com/cw.

Sunset Celebration Weekend May 20-21, 2017, 11am-5pm Cornerstone Sonoma 23570 Arnold Drive, Sonoma, California

By Adriene Rockwell Lisa Duncan Photography Since she retired five years ago after 23 years as an elementary school teacher for the Napa Unified School District, Elaine Ponziani-Seput has rarely had a day off.

Elaine has lived in her 1870s Victorian home by the water since she moved to Benicia 43 years ago, raising two children, tending her gardens and chickens, and even doing many of her own repairs. She enjoys caring for her three year-old granddaughter, and helps with homeschooling her twin teen granddaughters—but since retiring, Elaine is rarely home.

Her first priority in retirement was to start singing again. She grew up singing in harmony with her mother and siblings, and in her late teens, became a singer and songwriter for blues and rock bands, including what she describes as a “Peter, Paul and Mary style” group. “I was really trying to be a hippie,” she says. Now, every Monday, she sings with a group of 16 women who come together simply for the joy of singing. There’s no judgment, she says, just a shared desire to harmonize.

If she’s not singing, she may be with a group of retired teachers who meet regularly for meditation and book study. Her Buddhist practice also includes the Benicia Sangha group, which hosts a range of speakers at St. Paul's Episcopal Church two Sundays a month.

In recent years, Elaine has developed a penchant for watercolor painting, and takes a weekly class at Lafayette Studios. She was an active volunteer at Arts Benicia, and still helps occasionally with their family art programs.

Among all her activities, Elaine’s favorite community work has been for the Robert Semple Elementary School Garden Club. She started five years ago when her granddaughters were students there, but remained active in the garden club after they left. “I love seeing the children’s joy in the garden. A lot of them who maybe don’t do so well on the playground come together as a little community, and feel like they belong somewhere.” Elaine’s garden students learn about literature, water conservation, the environment, food systems, the economy, and more. “They learn what plants need in order to grow, and how to nurture them. They learn empathy when they put the worms back in the soil,” she continues. “And when we walk around and show them the new growth, they learn to notice more.”

Like the children in the garden, Elaine still wants to keep learning.

“Everything is a learning opportunity, and when you stop learning, you die.”

When asked what she’d like to do next, she replied, “I want to get completely submerged in another language. I’d like to go back to Italy. And if I had another life, I would be much more into science. I love that kind of stuff.”

BeniciaMagazine.com • 13

BIO

Elaine Ponziani-Seput

Photo by Jerry Bowles

Properly Mainta

By Sarah Rohrs Photo by Jerry Bowles The great outdoors beckons, and the warmer days of spring demand our attendance. What better way to enjoy the sunshine than a family bike ride?

But before that inaugural spring outing, it’s a good idea to make sure the family bicycles are all in good working order after the cold and wet months. For health and safety, downtown Benicia’s Wheels in Motion owner Greg Andrada recommends annual bike maintenance. Spring is a good time to undertake those steps, he said, adding “after winter the bicycles have been sitting for awhile and need some attention.” Found at 735 First Street, Wheels in Motion offers free safety inspections. “Regular inspections and maintenance also make for an easier, nicer ride.”

14 • Benicia Magazine Currents

Benicia’s Spring Breeze Makes for Perfect Kiting

By Sarah Rohrs Catching a breeze is easy in Benicia. With encouraging winds in spring and fall, and acres upon acres of grassy, scenic parks, kite flying is a fun and obvious choice for family entertainment. Colorful examples of the latest kite styles can be found soaring over Ninth Street Park, which also has the advantage of offering the best waterfront views in town, as well as picnic areas, sand volleyball courts, a kids’ playground and a sandy beach. Kites are also seen along the First Street Green, twirling gracefully against blue skies and the deeper blues of the Carquinez Strait.

City Parks Supervisor Theron Jones cites Matthew Turner Shipyard Park at West 12th Street, or Benicia Community Park, as good spots for kite flying. He advises staying away from City Park and its mature trees. Lynch Canyon, south of Fairfield, is also a prime kite flying area. The 31st annual Berkeley Kite Festival, put on by Highline Kites, offers an entire weekend of kite flying and other entertainments, July 30-31.

Ushered in with warmer weather, “April marks the unofficial start of kite-flying season,” said Chris Gatewood, owner of Benicia Kite and Paddle Sports. A popular pastime all over the world, encouraging a

kite to dance on the breeze is pure airborn artistry, and one that’s easy to learn, or relearn, with You Tube videos providing instructions.

Kite flying rituals and customs marking special occasions have roots in many countries. According to Wikipedia, kites were invented in ancient China, where materials ideal for kite making were readily available. Kites were then introduced to Cambodia, Thailand, India, Japan, Korea and the Western world. In one of America’s favorite stories, the kite was instrumental in research by Benjamin Franklin, when he proposed an experiment to prove that lightning was caused by electricity, and by the Wright Brothers in the development of the first airplane.

Benicia’s gusty winds also provide a great opportunity for kite surfing on the Carquinez Strait, and hang gliding from surrounding hills. “Benicia is a great place for playing in the wind,” Gatewood said.

Waterfront areas are also popular for kite surfing. Paragliders are known to take their hang gliders and fly off the hills from Channing Circle and along Columbus Parkway, he added.

While spring breezes are abundant in Benicia, kite shops are not.

Still, some can be found. A small assortment of kites are available at Bookshop Benicia and at Mozart Einstein & Me, both on First Street. The simple diamond-shaped kites can often be found in hobby shops and in local drug and retail chain stores. Gatewood suggests ordering kites online from his wholesaler, HQ Kites & Designs USA. People can also go to Highline Kites at the Berkeley Marina. Whether kite flyers pick a spot along the water or head to a hilly area, Gatewood has a bit of advice—pick a clear patch of ground away from trees and power lines, and pay due respect other fliers and park-goers. “There’s a lot of room for others to play and fly. Be conscious of others so that everybody can enjoy the park,” he said.

ained Bicycles Enhance a Spring Ride Business accelerates at the long-time bike hub, and in the spring, and it’s no wonder. Benicia is big on bikes, and folks are ready to take to Benicia’s many trails and quiet side streets. A member of the Benicia Bicycle Club, Mayor Elizabeth Patterson said the steady increase in bicycling interest and opportunities is exciting. Benicia has bicyclists of all kinds and proficiency levels including serious, long-distance riders, bike club members, off-trail bikers, commuters, children and families out for enjoyment, and others making short shopping trips, she said. Some people favor electric bikes and hybrid bicycles are also popular, said Andrada. New bike trails are in the works, too, including sections of the Bay Area Ridge Trail and along Park Road in the Benicia Industrial Park. “We have a very diverse bicycle population here,” said Patterson.

Bikers on long rides that take them through the North Bay are also discovering Benicia and its bicycling charms.

Wheels in Motion’s Top 10 Bicycle Maintenance Suggestions 1. Check tires for cracks and ensure they are correctly inflated 2. Inspect and clean the brakes 3. Check the brake pads for excessive wear 4. Make sure wheels are “true” and don’t wobble 5. Check the oil and chain 6. Check lights and reflectors 7. Make sure the handlebar grips are in good working order.

8. Oil the gear cluster and lube the seat post 9. Replace helmets that are more than 3 years old 10. Get a professional tune-up and servicing BeniciaMagazine.com • 15

Block by Block on Fir Part 3 in a Series

The eclectic style, creativity and sheer variety of businesses that make First Street an everchanging landscape also make the mile-long shopping corridor somewhat of a mystery. We are taking the guesswork out of which businesses are where and what each block has to offer visitors.

Our third in a series of articles detailing downtown Benicia, in this issue we focus on D Street to E Street. In parts 1 and 2 in our March and April issues, we started at the waterfront and highlighted the businesses from A Street to C Street and their gorgeous vistas of the Carquinez strait, with the historic railroad depot anchoring the southern tip of First Street. This area is host to the April-October Certified Farmers Market, which opens this week. Moving north, C to D Streets are dotted with restaurants and art galleries.

In this installment, we explore the shopping and dining options from D Street to E Street. The block features three restaurants: Lucca Bar & Grill (and Lucca Beer Garden, which has its own menu), First Street Café and The Union Hotel Restaurant and Bar. Coming into the warm season, outdoor seating will become more prominent—The Union Hotel and Lucca both have abundant outdoor space, and First Street Café has several outdoor tables. In 2016, Lucca’s patio area expanded, especially with the addition of the beer garden where live music can be enjoyed in the

16 • Benicia Magazine

The Union Hotel 401 First Street unionhotelbenicia.com The Union Hotel Restaurant & Bar

401 First Street unionhotelrestaurant.net

Golden Horse Shoe Antiques

415 First Street 707.334.6181; Facebook

Pups N Purrz 422 First Street pupsnpurrz.com

Illustration by Margaret Bowles

rst Street early evening. Retail stores include Golden Horse Shoe Antiques, Adobe Second Chance Thrift Store and Pups N Purrz.

Another great feature of this block is the lovely Avant Garden, the brainchild of the Benicia Community Gardens, now Sustainable Solano, where, for a nominal fee, residents can rent space for a garden bed they can coax into a full summer feast.

Adobe is the newcomer on this block, having recently moved to 431 First Street, necessitated by the red tagging of their former location at First and J Streets. For many years, Adobe has done great work in the community, so stop by and search for a diamond in the rough at the long-time thrift store.

Adobe Second Chance Thrift Shop 431 First Street 707.745.4565; Facebook

435 Spa & Massage 435 First Street 707.373.5077

Lucca Bar & Grill Lucca Beer Garden

439 First Street luccabar.com

First Street CafĂŠ & Upstairs @ the Cafe 440 First Street firststreetcafe.com

Avant Garden (Benicia Community Gardens) Corner First & D Streets beniciacommunitygardens.org

BeniciaMagazine.com • 17

Highway 128 to Mendocino The Drive

With the onset of late spring and midsummer heat, coastal fog beckons, and what better way to enjoy a short getaway than to head north? If you haven’t yet (or recently) navigated this gorgeous two-lane highway, you must give Highway 128 a go. Traversing the back roads from Yolo to Mendocino, the road passes through small towns and tiny hamlets such as Winters, Rutherford, Geyserville, Cloverdale, Boonville and Philo, while bisecting larger wine regions of Napa Valley, Alexander Valley and Anderson Valley. Large and small wineries, shops, cafes and stunning vistas are ready to be discovered. Further west, the road cuts through magnificent old growth Redwood Groves that dwarf everything in sight. Ultimately, Highway 128 ends in Mendocino on the craggy Northern California coast. Like a slice of New England, Mendocino and surrounding small towns are foggy, rugged and hauntingly beautiful, with great mom and pop seafood restaurants and charming small hotels and B& B's.

The Car

Ideally driven in a sleek sports car, fast luxury vehicle or by motorcycle, I was lucky enough to demo a shiny Lexus GS 350 FSPORT, painted a sleek Matador Red Mica.

The killer of a luxury sedan is in some ways like a powerful BMW, only sexier, more reliable and affordable. The F SPORT was wearing Bridgestone Potenza 235/40/R19’s supported by beautiful 5 spoke alloy wheels. The 3.5-liter, fuel injected V6 six seemed sluggish at first, (I was driving the automatic version) but it soon found its rhythm and together we made a precise, fast, road handling team.

18 • Benicia Magazine

Starting Out

I began my journey in the tiny Yolo County town of Winters. I popped into one of my all time favorites, Chicago’s very first CD, and cranked up the Lexus’ 17-speaker, 835-watt surround sound Audio system. It sounded brilliant and the car was rocking.

Winters, a happening little town (population around 7,000) lies in the middle of agricultural territory, growing walnuts, almonds and alfalfa, and plenty of vineyards. This little slice of Americana has blossomed to include trendy restaurants, wine tasting rooms and shops. The most popular restaurant in town is the superb Buckhorn BBQ & Steakhouse (awesome steaks); Ficelle and the Putah Creek Café, and the Preserve Public House & Market, which is generating a buzz. The Turkovich Winery tasting room is the best winery in town—try their excellent red blend called “The Boss.” Or check out Berryessa Brewing, an enjoyable brewpub. For some shuteye, try the Inn at Park Winters, a very nice Inn just outside of town.

Into Napa County

Heading west, you’ll pass the currently full Lake Berryessa, and then on to the back roads of Napa County. Unlike the Napa Valley itself, it’s mostly a rugged, sparsely populated area.

128 pops into Napa Valley at Silverado Trail near Rutherford. If you’re hungry, the Rutherford Grill is an ideal stop, reasonably priced and known for their rare “No Corkage” policy. Back on the Silverado Trail, if you can swing it, stay at the Calistoga Ranch (an Auberge property), which offers a luxurious place to “rough it” for the night. The Calistoga Ranch’s accommodations are dramatic examples of indoor/outdoor living, set in a bucolic pine forest. I particularly enjoyed the private outdoor shower.

With its wine caves, serene setting, Lakehouse private dining restaurant and attentive service, Calistoga Ranch is an amazing property with few, if any peers.

Story and photos by Bob Ecker

Meandering Through Sonoma County

Next up, Highway 128 runs through Calistoga, and then continues northwest through Sonoma’s beautiful Knights and Alexander Valleys. The navigation system worked well and the voice command (I called her Sheila) got most, though not all of the directions correct. This part of Sonoma County conjures up a serpentine path passing stunning green meadows with sweet, strong scents of honeysuckle and pine. Alexander Valley is Sonoma’s Big Cab country. Try one of the many wineries such as Soda Rock Winery or Hawkes. Alexander Valley Vineyards presents a fascinating tour, and samples of many good wines (Their “Cyrus” is a standout). Trendy Healdsburg awaits just a few miles west is a huge array of excellent restaurants to sample. Vallette is a favorite and The Chalkboard is another fine place to dine. In Geyserville, another fun little town, Diavola is a great lunch stop producing fabulous pizzas. Time permitting; try the over-the-top Francis Ford Coppola Winery, complete with memorabilia and a swimming pool.

Boonville and Philo

After joining up with Highway 101 for a few miles, 128 juts off at Cloverdale and heads to the coast. In the heart of Anderson Valley wine country, arrive at Boonville, home to many fine wineries, and also the Anderson Valley Brewing Company. Their cavernous tasting room is sort of weird actually, like an airplane hanger—but the beers themselves are the draw. Boont Amber is classic ale and I also enjoyed Hop Ottin’ IPA. Incidentally, this is also serious Frisbee golf country, and specially labeled Frisbee golf disks are sold at the brewery.

Boonville has its own underground language called Boontling, which goes back some hundred and thirty years. “Tons of people still speak it,” said Scott Fraser of nearby Handley Cellars. A few locals nodded their heads silently. For a lovely place to settle in for the night, the quaint Boonville Hotel answers nicely— every room has a hammock on the balcony and its Highway 128 restaurant is outstanding.

Just a few miles and you’ll hit the tiny town of Philo. Chock full of tasting rooms, I suggest visiting both Witching Stick (Ask

for Van) and Toulouse Winery for some outstanding Pinot Noirs.

Other worthy wineries in the area include Benicia-owned Bink Wines, with a local tasting room, and Goldeneye, Lula Cellars and Handley.

Back in the Lexus, it was time to hit the coast. Listening to Peter Gabriel, I hit the gas as giant redwoods closed around me. I stopped to gape at these Tolkein-esque behemoths, some taller than three hundred feet and over two thousand years old. This truly is a stunning drive. Finally arriving at the Mendocino coast, the topography changes radically to Monterey cypress, oaks and coastal pines mixed with beach grasses. The road winds around the Navarro River with the majestic Pacific stretching infinitely west.

Mendocino and Fort Bragg

Mendocino’s a somewhat counter-culture haven; the shops, cafes, galleries and old Victorian houses clinging to the cliff.

Good restaurants include the MacCallum House Restaurant, Café Beaujolais, with The Little River Inn and Wild Fish, offering tasty meals up the road in Little River. For a humbler good time, try Patterson’s Pub—the place to go in Mendocino for beer, conversation and decent pub grub. An exceptional place to stay in the area is The Brewery Gulch Inn, set back on a bluff overlooking the ocean. What a view! And superlative breakfasts too.

Ft. Bragg is the largest town in the area. It’s a hardy place with a cool coastal vibe and the residents, used to coastal hardships and plenty of fog, wind and rain, are very friendly.

Restaurant choices include Point Noyo Restaurant, Django’s and Mayan Fusion, all producing cuisine using fresh local ingredients. And don’t miss the North Coast Brewing Company of Red Seal Ale fame. It offers a hopping family dining and beer tasting atmosphere.

Back in the GS 350, I headed back the way I came. After sampling the coolness of the coast and giant redwoods, meeting people and generally enjoying Highway 128’s largesse, I rolled into my driveway and shut down the Lexus. What a ride, what a tour.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 19

Poignant Memorial Day Ceremony

Honors Veterans

By Sarah Rohrs Small and tucked away in the Benicia Arsenal, the Benicia Post Arsenal Cemetery is a well-tended spot graced with history. On Memorial Day, the oldest post cemetery in the country will be the venue for a patriotic service that draws hundreds to pay their respects with wreaths, elegiac music and symbols and displays.

The national holiday honors American soldiers who have perished in past wars, as well as those fighting in Iraq, Afghanistan and other parts of the world today. Put on by the Benicia Historical Society, the service is part of “a day to remember the sacrifices people have made for our way of life. We want to recognize all the people who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country and to recognize all veterans currently serving,” said event coordinator Wally Stephens, historical society board vice president.

20 • Benicia Magazine

This year’s service will be particularly poignant as several elderly World War II veterans will be present for special recognition.

The Pearl Harbor attack that drew the United States into the war occurred more than 75 years ago. Each day, more WWII veterans pass away, leaving fewer behind. “There are not that many left. They would be, at a minimum, in their 90s,” Stephens said. Benicia WWII veterans attending the service include Harold J. Bray, who survived the sinking of the USS Indianapolis; Peter Caggiano Sr., a mechanic who served in France and Germany; and Robert Hitchcock, a radio operator who took part in 32 air bombings and survived a crash landing. The family of WWII veteran Ethelbert Morgan also plans to attend. All will get a place to sit with their families, and words of acknowledgement, Stephens said.

The Memorial Day Service began as a small event with a handful of people attending, but

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it continues to grow and evolve. Former coordinator Kerry Carney said the event has become well known, and beloved for many. This year between 400 and 500 people are expected. “It’s a really nice small town feel. We put everything up the night before and we do a little dress rehearsal. We try to make it so we are really honoring the veterans,” she said. Care goes into incorporating symbols and honorific acts, such as a traditional gun salute performed by the Military History Preservation Society members who wear military uniforms. A bugler plays “Taps,” a musician with a set of bagpipes plays “Amazing Grace,” and the Diablo Regional Band does a rendition of “America the Beautiful.” The Color Guard is provided by the American Legion VFW Post 3928, and American Legion Post 101. The National Anthem is sung, the Pledge of Allegiance is recited as well as a prayer, and Benicia’s Poet Laureate Johanna Ely, will read a poem. This year’s speaker is Col. Lawrence T. Brown, Commandant of the Presidio at Monterey, and the Emcee is Benicia veteran Larry J. Miller. A Travis Air Force Base flyover has been requested, but not yet confirmed, Stephens said.

Prior to the 10am service, Benicia Boy Scouts will raise an enormous garrison flag and put flowers on all of the graves. Founded in 1849, the cemetery is the final resting spot for soldiers and civilians, including women and children, plus eight German and one Italian POWs and several military dogs. The last burials occurred in 1958. “A lot of people don’t realize we have a military cemetery here. It’s quite a beautiful and amazing place,” Stephens said. The cemetery has a caretaker who tends to and maintains the grounds and headstones.

On Memorial Day, parking at the cemetery is at a premium so people are advised to come early, or take a shuttle from the nearby Amports parking lot courtesy of SolTrans, added Stephens. For additional information, visit beniciahistoricalsociety.org, or “Like” the Benicia Historical Society on Facebook Photos by Wally Stephens

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 21

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Evoking the Heart Connection through Sculptural Artistry One is immediately captivated upon first glance of Mary Oros’ website, where there is a gallery of her sculptures that seem to defy gravity. Working in concrete, Oros refers to her process as ‘concrete couture’ due to its labor-intensive nature. In her artist’s statement, Oros says she feels she is choreographing her pieces as she designs them in space, one movement impacting another. She adds that she “recognizes the strength and power of grace and beauty, and the need to embrace humanness before there is too much societal disconnect between heart and mind. In these times especially, I hope that viewers, when they walk around my sculptures, will simply be reminded of the heart connection within themselves.”

Of inspiration, Oros says “I just like being outside in California. The natural ruggedness inspires me, the whacky vegetation, the light, the air, the microclimates, and of course the ocean.” Oros will be participating during Arts Benicia’s huge annual event, Artist Open Studios, May 6-7, 10am-5pm. To learn more about the Benicia artist, or view Oros’ work, visit maryoros.com.

Photo: Oros works on Swirl, by Mike Kendall

BeniciaMagazine.com • 23

INTERVIEW WITH

Peggie Hartig

By Sue Sumner-Moore Lisa Duncan Photography Americans love their pets, but Peggie Hartig’s devotion to animals runs deeper than most.

She retired from a marketing job to volunteer full-time at a Vallejo animal shelter. She spent vacations helping at an animal sanctuary in Utah. Her husband, also an animal-lover, proposed to her at a wolf sanctuary in Washington.

Working with homeless animals feeds her soul, she explains. “I just feel like they need somebody to be their voice, somebody to be their protector,” she says, choking up a bit.

She is particularly passionate about changing people’s perceptions of pit bulls.

“There’s so much misinformation out there about the breed. They need to be judged individually. The majority are amazing animals and great pets,” she says while Ernie, one of her pit bulls, is curled up at her feet.

Peggie’s work to help animals dates back to 2001, when four wolves were found in a backyard in Vallejo. She helped find a sanctuary to take them in Oregon.

She started volunteering with local animal groups in 2006, initially with Solano County Animal Rescue Foundation. She worked with the Spay & Neuter Initiative Program and began donating her time at the Humane Society of the North Bay in 2008.

Peggie retired from NorthBay Healthcare in 2015 to devote full-time to the animals at the Vallejo shelter. She was the event coordinator at the Humane Society until she decided to change direction last summer and left the organization.

When she spoke with Benicia Magazine in March, Peggie was taking time to figure out the next way she will help animals.

Other changes are on the horizon as well: The younger of her two sons will graduate from high school this year and she just started a new job at Mt. Beautiful Wines.

Peggie, 51, grew up in Plainfield, Ill., and moved to Benicia in 1981. She graduated from Benicia High School and attended Diablo Valley College. She and her husband, Frank, have three dogs and a foster dog.

24 • Benicia Magazine Interview

Have you always loved animals?

I have always had pets and loved them. We had dogs, cats, snakes, even ducks when I was growing up. Plainfield was rural then. It was so different then. Our dogs would be outside, even in the snow. I used to love tornadoes because our dog could come inside and go in the basement.

I’ve always been protective of animals. I remember I got really mad at a neighbor who hurt their cat when I was five.

What do you love about pit bulls?

Pits are amazing family pets. They are loyal, they are gentle with people, they are fun and they are funny.

Our very first pit bull was a six-week-old puppy that Frank (a retired lieutenant from the Benicia Police Department) found in a gutter when he was on patrol. I love that my animals are ambassadors for pit bulls.

When did you become an advocate for pit bulls?

Probably at the (Humane Society of the North Bay) shelter. There was a pit bull I fell in love with, Chipper. He was my first love at the shelter, and I started lobbying for the breed. There are so many of them because they are irresponsibly bred, and they are pre-judged because of the media. People think they’re all that way because of just a few. The majority are amazing animals and great pets.

What should people consider before adopting a pet?

Consider your lifestyle and research which breed will be the best fit.

Don’t get a puppy if you like to sit at home. There are a lot of older dogs available at the shelter who would love to come into a home and be a lap dog. If you like to hike, look for a more active breed.

Don’t think a new pet will change your lifestyle.

Don’t say, “I’m want to exercise and lose weight so I’m going to get a dog so I have to walk it.”

Also consider your living situation. Don’t get a husky if you live in an apartment. …

I just really encourage people to adopt from a shelter or rescue group. You can find any breed at Petfinder.com or Adoptapet.com.

Remember, you can save your best friend’s life. I have that saying on my business card.

What steps can people take to increase the success of pet adoption?

It’s complicated because there are a lot of different steps that depend on your individual situation. If you have pets, if you have children, introduce the new pet very slowly and cautiously. Always supervise young children with pets.

Are you volunteering with local animal groups now?

If any rescue group needs help with graphic design, I’ll do it. I’ve done some of that work this year.

What animal sanctuary do you vacation at?

I love going to Best Friends sanctuary in Utah. I go there for vacation and to volunteer.

When I go, I just don’t want to leave. I’m bawling when it comes time to leave. I feel like my soul belongs there.

What do you do when you’re not working?

Drink wine (laughing). We like to go wine tasting. There’s a sign in my kitchen that says, “Dogs and wine make everything fine.” That’s my motto.

We also like to go on walks and take hikes. We like to go out to Point Pinole.

How will you spend Mother’s Day this year?

As long as I’m looking at my children’s faces and I get to spend the day with my mom, I’m happy. Skype doesn’t count for seeing your children on Mother’s Day. I don’t like going out on Mother’s Day because everyplace is so busy. Usually my husband barbecues for us.

What’s next for you?

I don’t know. I guess the future is unknown. We have some traveling coming up.

I heard a woman at a winery say, “I’m like a dog, I live in the moment,” and I thought, “I’m just like that.” I figure it out and do it if it feels right.

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 25

Traveling to your own back yard TRENDS

Photo by Jerry Bowles

By Christina Strawbridge The thrill of travel is being able to experience and compare great locations as a tourist. Through the years I have had the good fortune to visit many some of the world’s most amazing cities—Paris, Venice, London and New York are like great love affairs that you just can't get enough of.

However, Benicia, the city I always return to, is much more than home. It continues to fascinate me with its unique charm and possibilities. In 2007, the City of Benicia, through its Economic Development Board and community stakeholders, began the discussion of what it would take to start a tourism effort in Benicia. Outside experts were brought in to determine whether we qualified as a tourist destination, and then how to implement a way to attract a target market to one of California’s first cities.

After much input, a plan was devised that highlighted what it would take to put Benicia on the map. It capitalized on the town's assets of being a waterfront city—historically authentic with a vibrant arts scene—and a downtown that offered a diverse range of dining, retail and day spas on the ten-block, tree lined First Street. A Great Day by the Bay was unveiled as the tagline that would be used in advertising and promoting to an audience of day trippers, history buffs, art lovers, water sports enthusiasts, foodies and shoppers.

The City Council took a leap of faith and invested in the tourism and marketing plan, hiring Jack Wolf of Wolf Communications to take the concept and run with it. Wolf had the experience and reputation of working with small towns like Healdsburg and Sonoma, where he worked his magic using personal media contacts throughout the Bay Area, marketing both cities as tourist destinations. Soon afterwards, articles about Benicia’s Great Day by the Bay began showing up in Sunset Magazine, the San Francisco Chronicle, 26 • Benicia Magazine Trends

Sacramento Bee, San Jose Mercury News, Diablo Magazine, Via Magazine, KGO radio, NPR and the L.A. Times.

After some persuasion from Wolf, Benicia was included in the 2011 Sunset Magazine Celebration Weekend vendor lineup.

This was a major coup to be alongside other tourist destinations such as San Diego, San Luis Obispo and Washington State.

Benicia held its own as booth representatives talked to hundreds of attendees about the where and the why of a Great Day by the Bay. Sunset Magazine's history is as fascinating as Benicia's, and dates back to 1898, when it was first published by the Southern Pacific Transportation Company. As a promotional piece, it was used to combat California’s image as the Wild West. The first issue featured an essay about Yosemite, train travel, and information about Western resorts.

Railroad-themed poetry and short stories, in which characters swapped tall tales while aboard trains, promoted travel specifically by rail. Most of these early stories were by Paul Shoup, who later became president of the Southern Pacific Railroad. The publication literally survived San Francisco’s 1906 Earthquake when the office was destroyed; but then trumpeted the city's revival through articles and photos of the rebuilding efforts. For over 100 plus years, Sunset has covered the Western United States food and wine renaissance through several wars and economic ups and downs.

In response to this renaissance, Sunset Celebration Weekend began 19 years ago at its Menlo Park corporate headquarters. The weekend is all about the best of Western living and vacationing. In 2016, Celebration Weekend moved to Cornerstone Sonoma, and this year will feature the latest in home technology. Benicia will be represented for the 7th year running, highlighting why the town truly is a Great Day by the Bay, to visit and to come home to.

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May 2017 Events

Photo byJoe Messina

Vallejo Food Forest Garden Demonstration

4/29, 5/6 & 5/13; 9am-3pm Location TBA, see website for updates Learn how to use water wisely while creating an environment where life-supporting plants thrive. Each day includes a talk from a Permaculture Designer and hands-on practice on how to build a food forest, in a series of three full-day workshops that are fun and informative. Free, with lunch provided by the homeowners. Sponsored by Benicia Community Gardens.

Beniciacommunitygardens.org

Benicia Old Town Theatre Group Presents Intimate Apparel

5/1-5/13 Fridays & Saturdays 8pm; Sundays 2pm Historic BDES Hall 150 West J Street, Benicia Last weeks! This play by Lynn Nottage and directed by Dan Clark captures the heart of 1905 New York with captivating characters and relationships within varied classes.

The story focuses on Esther, a specialty seamstress of intimate apparel, and asks the questions, “At what price, love; and at what cost, need?” General admission $22; seniors and students with valid ID, $20. Beniciaoldtowntheatregroup.com 707.746.1269

The Washington Street Speakeasy 5/6, 6-12pm Historic Clock Tower 1189 Washington Street, Benicia This annual fundraiser and auction is sponsored by the Matthew Turner Elementary Parent Teacher Association. All proceeds directly benefit more than 500 students, and fund STEM & art programs at Matthew Turner. Matthew Turner relies 28 • Benicia Magazine Calendar

on the generosity of families, organizations and businesses to purchase technology and deliver positive academic experiences for all students. Tickets are $80 and include a tasty dinner, beer, wine, non-alcoholic drinks, dessert, coffee and tea, live music, and the opportunity to bid on terrific donations from our supportive community.

501auctions.com/matthewturner/tickets

Arts Benicia Artists’ Open Studios

5/7 & 8, 10am-5pm Arts Benicia Gallery & studios around Benicia 991 Tyler Street #114, Benicia Each year scores of artists open the doors of their studio spaces throughout Benicia’s Historic Arsenal District and all over town, providing a unique glimpse into their creative world. Arts Benicia celebrates its 30th year during Benicia Artists Open Studios. Ride the FREE SolTrans Shuttle between the Arsenal & downtown and explore artist studios on Jackson & Tyler Streets in the Arsenal, see glass blowing, tour galleries and other venues on First Street, speak with artists about their work, watch demonstrations, and purchase original art. Event and parking are FREE. Artsbenicia.org 707.747.0131

Carnivale Fantastico!

5/6 & 7, 10am-6pm Blue Rock Springs Park 650 Columbus Parkway, Vallejo Avalon Themed Events, in partnership with the Greater Vallejo Recreation District, present the third annual Carnivale Fantastico! Journey back to the 16th century when the Italies were bursting with music, art and fashion. Meet members of the powerful Medici family. Enjoy multiple stages of entertainment including period

Photo by Stephen Jacobson music and dance. Laugh along with the people’s theatre, Commedia Dell Arte.

Savor Italian dishes and sample wines from the various regions of Italy. Shop for handcrafted wares from merchants. Enjoy a full day of entertainment as beautiful Blue Rock Springs Park is transformed into the magnificence of Renaissance Italy. See website for ticket info.

Carnivalefantastico.com

Downtown Benicia Cleanup Day

5/13, 9am-12pm First Street, Benicia Benicia Main Street invites individuals, businesses, and organizations to help cleanup First Street. A delicious BBQ lunch will be provided by Allied Waste at 11am at Benicia Main Street headquarters.

Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

Mother’s Day Art Show

5/13 & 14, 11am-5pm Coalshed Studios, 4th and Waterfront Avenue Mare Island, Vallejo Known as “the mother of Mother’s Day shows,” this annual event features art from The Coalshed’s 18 resident artists, running the gamut from painters, woodworkers, metalworkers, printmakers, photographers, videographers, sculptors, textile artists and more. Jealous Zelig, who “smashes together many genres of music from Jazz/Soul to Classical to Country-Rock,” will play from 1-3pm on Sunday. Bring your mom to this eclectic space for good community, music and artistic inspiration.

Coalshedstudios.com

Mother’s Day 5/14

Bay Area Maker Faire

5/19-21, hours vary each day San Mateo County Event Center 1346 Saratoga Drive, San Mateo Maker Faire is the Greatest Show (and Tell) on Earth—a familyfriendly festival of invention, creativity and resourcefulness, and a celebration of the Maker movement. It’s an all-ages gathering of tech enthusiasts, crafters, educators, tinkerers, hobbyists, engineers, science clubs, authors, artists, students, and commercial exhibitors. All of these “makers” come to Maker Faire to show what they have made and to share what they have learned. Tickets range from $25 -$80.

Makerfaire.com/bay-area

Spring-a-Palooza Auction & Dinner Party

5/19, 4:30-11pm Historic Clock Tower 1189 Washington Street, Benicia Join the Benicia Chamber of Commerce for a festive evening that includes a buffet dinner, silent and live auction, drawing, no-host bar, and music! Tickets $40 per person, available at the Benicia Chamber of Commerce office or from any Chamber Ambassador.

Beniciachamber.com 707.745.2120

Loma Vista Farm’s Annual Spring Festival

5/20, 11am-3pm Loma Vista Farm 150 Rainer Avenue, Vallejo This is an opportunity for friends and families to come out and enjoy the farm. It’s a good time to think about spring planting and making a garden of your own. Find out more about the farm and the wonderful things that are offered all year long. Come see the progress on the amazing new goat yard! The event is free with 50cent activity tickets and food and plants offered for sale.

Lomavistafarm.org 707.556.8765

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Memorial Day Ceremony

5/29, 10-11am Benicia Military Cemetery Hospital Road, Benicia Each Memorial Day, the Benicia Historical Society honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our way of life, as well as all veterans and those currently serving our nation. This year the ceremony is dedicated to World War II veterans in the area.

To get to the Benicia Military Cemetery, follow Military East past East 7th St., turn on Hospital Rd. and follow the signs through the gate. A military fly-over is anticipated during the ceremony. Light refreshments will be served afterward.

Beniciahistoricalsociety.org

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NE WIIN IES & WINE FOODIES FOR FOR FOOD EROS CARNEROS RS, CARN LOVE LOVERS, ER WINTER IN WINT ONS IN BECK BECKONS ER A -RUSH ERA GOLD GOLD-RUS ED PASSED LATION PASS LEGIS LEGISLATIO TOL CAPITOL CIA CAPI BENICIA AT AT BENI

Photo by Wally Stephens BeniciaMagazine.com • 29

Voices of Now Concert Tour

May 6, 2017 at 7PM Napa Valley Performing Arts/ Lincoln Theater 100 California Dr. Yountville, CA 707.944.9900 Photography · Cindi Stephan · twoirises.com

Tickets · lincolntheater.com

May 20, 2017 at 7PM Napa Valley Opera House 1030 Main St. Napa, CA 707.226.7372 Tickets · nvoh.org

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—Jennifer and Bob Moore

Open Mon. - Fri. 9-5

weekends & evenings by appointment 4852 East 2nd Street, Benicia

707-745-2100 l aqc@aqchome.com