Benicia Magazine March 2017

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Contributors Elizabeth d’Huart Adriene Rockwell Sarah Rohrs Beth Steinmann Sue Sumner-Moore Photographers Jerry Bowles Lisa Duncan Malcolm Slight

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Contact Us 707.853.8159, Beniciamagazine.com editor@beniciamagazine.com Administration Office Manager Risë Goebel Copy Editor/proofreader Beth Steinmann Benicia Magazine is published monthly by Polygon Publishing, LLC. Copyright © 2017, all rights reserved. Contents of Benicia Magazine cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed in Benicia Magazine editorial or advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, and may not reflect the opinion of Benicia Magazine’s management or publisher.

Subscriptions $18.00 per year. Benicia Magazine, 372 First Street, Benicia, CA 94510. 707.853.8159, beniciamagazine.com.

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FEATURES

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Benicia firm tackles the art of food flavoring

MARCH

18 VOLUME 12 ISSUE 5

20

DEPARTMENTS

Rediscovering First Street, one block at a time

10 From the Editor 12 Currents In its third year, Mini Maker Fair returns to Benicia Middle School Programs to engage kids with learning and literature at the Benicia Library Benicia artist Jerrold Turner shows his newest work at Gallery 621

Using a pet directive to keep beloved animals safe and healthy

14 Bio

Celeste Monnette, BUSD Trustee & Psychiatric Social Worker

22 Backwards Glance

How Benicia’s Army Arsenal became a thriving business park

24 Interview

Benicia Fire Chief Jim Lydon

26 Trends

Benicia Main Street: the driving force behind our downtown

28 Calendar of Events

The best events in Benicia and around the Bay

13

16

Cover photo: Kid zone at Benicia Public Library, Lisa Duncan Photography Photos this page: above and middle, Lisa Duncan Photography; right, courtesy photo

8 • Benicia Magazine

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FROM THE EDITOR

March 2017 Honoring March’s penchant for fun (St. Paddy’s Day, March Madness, Spring Training), this month’s issue includes an amusing mix of interesting stories for your perusal. After hearing a few times that there’s a lack of shops and restaurants downtown, we decided to offer a block-by-block primer of First Street. As the street is a mile long, one can imagine why, at first glance, an infrequent visitor might have that impression.

However, there are some 200 businesses of all types lining the street, including approximately 27 bars and restaurants and 80 retail stores. Spread out along 11 blocks, each with its own unique character, there’s plenty to enjoy. In this issue we tackle First Street from the waterfront to C Street, which contains bars and restaurants, art galleries and retail stores. Next month we’ll focus on C to E Streets. On behalf of my downtown neighbors, I invite you to explore First Street’s nooks and crannies at a leisurely pace.

Downtown’s west side is rapidly changing with many new homes and major remodels, filling in most of the remaining vacant parcels. Living downtown for the past 26 years, I have never seen this much construction in the area. It’s fun to see the different types and styles of the new abodes, from tiny to outsized.

Continuing with our varied themes, you’ll find tidbits about kids’ programs at the Benicia Library, illustrated on the cover by my three grandies. Want to make sure your beloved pets are cared for after their owners pass or become incapacitated?

A pet directive may help. The annual Mini Maker Fair returns this month to Benicia Middle School, and much admired Benicia artist Jerrold Turner shows his newest works at Gallery 621.

Check out additional stories in Currents, and our Interview, Bio and Calendar—and enjoy any small breaks in the rain that March may provide.

Lisa Duncan Photography

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 11

C U R R EN TS

Benicia Maker Faire Returns for its Third Year

Photos: Courtesy Benicia Maker Faire 12 • Benicia Magazine Currents

By Sarah Rohrs Benicia’s devout DIYers are gearing up for the third annual Benicia Mini Maker Faire, happening April 2 at Benicia Middle School. The maker movement is a grassroots movement that started as a way to take technological innovation out of the exclusive realm of tech companies and empower the minds and hands of creative individuals (including students, hobbyists and enthusiasts), within communities. The movement grew to include people and endeavors from many walks and realms of life, including homesteaders, musicians, creatives and visionaries. The maker movement has engaged millions of people worldwide.

Makers maintain that the pursuit gives different people reasons to interact and find mutual inspiration. Benicia Maker Space is a nonprofit organization with a workshop in the Industrial Park on East Second Street, where “people come together to collaborate, invent, prototype and test new ideas using state of the art equipment.” The group runs the annual Benicia Maker Faire, now in it’s third year, and holds a bi-monthly Meetup group and open house every other Monday evening from 6-8pm.

Aaron Newcomb, the president of the Benicia Maker’s board, says, “Hands-on learning is something our society has gotten away from over the past 20—30 years. We believe that when you apply learning in a physical way, it’s more rewarding, easier to achieve and has much longer retention. The barriers to entry have come way down with the advent of modern technologies like 3D printing, CNC mills and simplified electronics and computers. Our goal is to provide access and training for tools and learning opportunities for all ages.”

This year’s Mini Maker Faire, 10am-4pm, is described as “part science fair, part county fair, and part something entirely new.” The family-friendly faire will be a spectacle of all kinds of inventions, presentations and creatively interactive projects.

Of the faire, Newcomb says, “I’m really excited to see things that individual community members are making. We will also be bringing back crowd favorites like the Riveropolis river and boat making exhibit, Tapigami masking tape art, and of course, the Laser Maze that we build at Benicia Makerspace. We hope this inspires people to try to bring their own ideas to life.”

Tickets are only $12 for adults and $6 for children online at Benicia.makerfaire.com before the event, and $15/$9 at the door. This event is also an opportunity for makers to gear up for the Bay Area Maker Faire that happens May 19-21 in San Mateo.

After School Zone

Looking for somewhere to go after school? Try the After-School Zone!

Drop in to study, eat, talk with friends, and play games. It's free. ASZ is open everyday that the Benicia Public Schools are open.

Family Story Time

Saturdays, kids of all ages

Toddler Story Time

Wednesdays, kids 2-3 years

Preschool Story Time Tuesdays, kids 4-5 years

Hear great books and have a good time at the Library with your child. Each week a children's librarian shares stories, songs, finger-plays and more. Drop in and join the fun!

Board Game Evenings

Friday, March 3, 2017 - 6pm Board games are lots of fun. Come play—the library will provide the games and snacks. For all ages.

Kids' Book Club

Tuesday, March 7 — 3:30pm The Kids’ Book Club is for kids in 4th and 5th grades only. This month they will be discussing Regarding the Fountain by Kate Klise.

Family Trivia Even

Saturday, March 11 — 2pm This is the 1st Family Trivia Event with Chelsea Bearce. Teams of six Prizes every round. Free to play!

Middle School Book Club

Tuesday, March 21 — 6pm This is a great way for middle schoolers to get together and talk about the books they want to read.

Junior Kids' Book Club

Tuesday, March 28 — 3:30pm The Junior Kids’ Book Club is for kids in 2nd and 3rd grades only. This month they will be discussing Mirror by Jeanine Baker

Benicia Library Offers Numerous Programs for Kids Photo by Jerry Bowles The Benicia Public Library, which is coming up on its 24th anniversary in its beautiful location on East L Street, is a warm and welcoming environment for all members of the community, but especially for kids and families. There are four book clubs for kids ranging from second grade to high school, and story times for the younger ones (beginning in infancy). After School Zone hours during the week are perfect for kids looking for somewhere cozy to study and be with other kids on these cold winter days, and weekend and evening events are open to the whole family.

There are myriad ways to encourage children’s connections to reading and literature, as well as fun community involvement that is not directly centered around reading. The library keeps an ongoing calendar of events online at benicialibrary.org (that also comes in a printer-friendly version for your fridge).

BeniciaMagazine.com • 13

BI O

Celeste Monnette

By Adriene Rockwell Lisa Duncan Photography

A working mom of two children at Mary Farmar Elementary School, Celeste Monnette was recently sworn in as the newest trustee of the Governing Board for the Benicia Unified School District. With a family history of community service, she’s starting off her two-year term with a bang. She sits on three committees that focus on district policy, curriculum and wellness. Her first order of business is to spend time listening and learning from her colleagues, teachers and parents—but she comes to her role with a steady vision to strengthen music and art programs as an integral part of the school curriculum.

“Music is a universal language, and a powerful way to connect around shared and different experiences across people and cultures. And it's fun! I think children can benefit from music in a unique way as they are generally more open to differences, and are less inhibited in their expression and creativity,” she says. “A solid foundation of continued music education plays an important role in preparing our children to be better world citizens.”

Among Benicia schools, the middle and high school band programs are greatly successful, however there are no feeder programs at the elementary levels other than an extra-curricular band program that is not accessible to all children due to cost and transportation barriers.

These gaps aren’t just in Benicia, they are across California, says Celeste—even in light of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) legislation passed in 2015, which mandates equitable access to music and art education, making them core subjects in our schools. “There is so much research out there that shows how art can make a significant difference in children’s cognitive development and learning,” says Celeste. “The intention is to help our children learn.”

One powerful way to do this, she believes, is to build a strong choir program in the district.

Growing up in St. Helena, Celeste sang in the school choir from fourth grade, continuing through her college years. She says it changed her life. “Band and choir require the ultimate in teamwork, and the need to collaborate with large groups of people. You learn to carry your own voice, and the voice of the group—working together, taking instruction, hearing feedback, and modifying in order to create a final group performance.”

Celeste comes from a long line of social justice activists. Her father was a psychologist, her mother a social worker, and her grandparents were labor organizers. Her great-grandmother helped build settlement houses in impoverished neighborhoods in the late 1800s. “It’s part of my cultural background to be involved in community, and local governance is something I’ve wanted to do for some time. I feel that it’s my responsibility as a community member to be active, and to participate.”

Her family culture also drew her to the mental health field, and she’s earned a degree in psychology from Humboldt State University, as well as a master’s degree in Social Welfare from UC Berkeley. Today Celeste is a psychiatric social worker for Kaiser, where she does triage and crisis intervention. “I’m fascinated by human relationships and human behavior, and this work is a natural fit for me.”

For fun she collaborates, writes songs (which she describes as “Americana”), plays guitar, and is a vocalist with a trio called the BBs, who occasionally perform at First Street Café. She continues to attribute her creative skills and lifelong passion for the arts to her early days in the school choir.

Gallery 621 Features Benicia Artist Jerrold Turner’s New Work

By Sarah Rohrs Within the Bay Area’s rich plein air painting scene, Benicia artist Jerrold Turner stands out for his colors and style.

But a few years ago Turner wanted to go to new places with his art. Rather than venture outdoors, he decided to work indoors, in his home studio, gravitating more toward fantasy and surrealism. His current oil paintings 14 • Benicia Magazine Currents

Peace of Mind for Pet Owners with Pet Directive

By Sarah Rohrs Dog lovers to the core, Dennis and Sue Sweeney of Benicia can’t imagine life without their “fur kids,” their two Scottish Terriers that are clearly beloved members of the family. But the Sweeney’s have imagined and planned for what life should be like for the dogs, Abagayle and Tyler, in the event something happens to them. “We all plan on living a long time, but tragic things can happen. We wanted to plan for them and make sure they are taken care of if something happens to us,” Dennis said. It was the couple’s love and devotion to their pets that inspired Bay Area estate attorney Stefanie West to create a free pet directive which pet owners can download and use to plan for their pet’s care in event of their own death or illness.

This kind of advance planning gives the Sweeney’s and other pet owners peace of mind, too. West launched the directive in February to coincide with Responsible Pet Owner Month.

There are times when a pet directive is clearly of great benefit. West said she learned about Sparkles, a dog that had nowhere to go when her owner passed away. Fortunately, the real estate agent selling the owner’s house knew of an animal lover who agreed to take Sparkles and give her a forever home. West said some pets are not so lucky and are taken to an animal shelter and euthanized. In another case, a 14-yearold boy in Oakland lost both his parents and then nearly lost his dog, too. A pet directive was not in place, but West made sure the dog stayed with the boy as he went to live with relatives.

Such a document is also of help to West’s own father who lost Bella, a beloved dog and loyal companion of many years. He has been reluctant to get another dog for fear he was getting older. A directive assures West that a plan is in place should his pet outlive him.

Pet Directives are not not legal documents, nor are they wills or trusts. The document gives owners a place to set down their wishes as well as list critical information regarding a pet’s age, medical condition, medication, allergies and other conditions, such as anxieties and fears. West’s directive is designed to get people thinking about a number of things they might not consider. She enlisted the help of a local veterinarian to assist her. The form records such things as temperament, food preferences, social needs, sleeping arrangements, groomers, dog walkers, favorite treats and toys, and what he or she enjoys doing. Other parts cover vaccinations, registrations and whether the pets have been spayed or neutered. Finally, there’s a part to record who will care for the pet temporarily in the event of death or incapacity, and who can take the pet permanently.

Once the document is filled out it can be put alongside the pet owner’s other estate planning documents. The pet directive can be downloaded free of charge at truststefanie.com/index. php/resources/pet-directive. A series of short YouTube videos called “Stefanie Talks” also instructs owners in greater detail on how to fill out the form.

are humorous, whimsical and usually a commentary on social or political issues, said his long-time friend and fellow Benicia artist Nikki Basch-Davis. Of his new work, Turner said, “I’m thinking of social-political work that is more consistent with the mood of the community of protest.” He added that after many years of landscape painting he found himself reaching for more content in the work as well as imagery.

As the featured artist in March for Gallery 621, Turner will show new pieces he’s created in his Benicia studio. The show, called One Small Step for Man…, will also feature some altered landscapes and a few of his plein air pieces, too. At age 84, Turner is not finished exploring new creative avenues, and growing as an artist. “He says to me often that art and painting make his life.

It’s so true that at this age you need to maintain a passion for

something that keeps the life force going,” said Basch-Davis.

With a strong background in science, Turner is also a structural engineer who graduated from UC Berkeley with BS and MS degrees in engineering. He had his own engineering business for more than 40 years while he also pursued his painting. “I found that I had no conflict with the right brain and left brain elements. They seem to fit nicely for me for some reason. I have the same love for science that I do for art,” he said. As an artist, he is primarily self-taught. For years he was part of The Outsiders, a group of eight painters with their own distinctive style. He has also taught workshops and mentored many artists.

“He’s an old-timer and well loved by many,” Basch-Davis said. A public reception for Turner’s show takes place 5-7pm, Saturday, March 11 at Gallery 621, 309 First St. BeniciaMagazine.com • 15

Unlocking

Myst of the

Perf Fla

By Sarah Rohrs Why do some foods just taste so darn good? How can a packaged granola bar give off a hint of cherry, or clear water have a burst of refreshing citrus with each sip? Flavor is fickle and elusive. But a Benicia Industrial Park entrepreneur is unlocking the mystery. A former racecar driver, at age 70, has launched Flavor Insights, a firm that’s on the cutting edge of flavor innovation and product development.

Flavor Insights’ state-of-the-art production facility on Industrial Way is the brainchild of Greg Pickett and his team, who launched the game-changing performance protein drink Muscle Milk that stands out in the massive beverage industry for its great taste.

More than two years in the making, the company is now fully operational with clients in sports nutrition, functional beverages, coffee, enhanced water, nutraceuticals and other products.

Already they are creating a buzz in the food manufacturing industry. “We’ve been approached by many different customers.

We get requests for natural, artificial and organic flavors,” said Nikki Brown, Pickett’s daughter and the firm’s CEO. 16 • Benicia Magazine

Pickett and his team first settled in Benicia with CytoSports, drawn to the industrial park’s competitive rates and the ease in working with the city, Brown said. After selling CytoSports to Hormel in 2014, Pickett had no intention of slowing down.

In 2013, Goldman Sachs named him one of the Top 100 US Entrepreneurs. After the sale, he renovated the Industrial Way space and directed his passion to his long-time interest of creating his own flavor house and a tasty library of organic and natural flavors, plus other flavors that are blends of the artificial and natural. It was a good progression as he was involved in the R&D end of CytoSports, Brown said. “He’s a very energetic and passionate guy. He has set forth an exciting vision here and he’s intimately involved in the flavor development process,” she said.

Brown is not the only family member involved in the company.

Pickett’s son Michael heads up customer service, and other family members, along with former CytoSport employees, work there too. “My dad likes to say he’s got his band back together,” Brown said. Of the Pickett family members, city economic

the

tery

fect avor development contractor Karen Majors said “they are true California entrepreneurs. They don’t just go off and retire. They think of new businesses.” The city’s economic development department is assisting them in securing California Competes tax credits that will free up funds to invest in equipment and R&D. Majors added that the company is well positioned to be a major player in responding to changes and demands in product flavors and ingredients, a new movement in the food industry.

One of the few flavor businesses in the Bay Area, Flavor Insights uses a unique spray process that helps protect the nutritional value of the flavor source, Brown said. That is a clear advantage in today’s market in which customers clamor for natural and organic ingredients in their food. According to Research and Markets Reports, the global markets for flavors and fragrances are predicted to reach $37 billion in the next four years, up $10 billion from 2015. Within its 1,100,000-square foot facility, Flavor Insights produces flavors in three different forms – powder, liquid and spray dry. It now has more than 100

flavors in its library, and more flavors added every day—flavors can also be made to order, Brown said.

The company’s focus on natural and organic flavors, and environmentally friendly practices and clean technology, dovetails into the city’s goals and priorities. One practice involves flushing out equipment with extremely hot water, eliminating the need for more caustic measures and materials, said Brown. “We’re close to a waterway. We want to eliminate any chance of chemicals seeping into the waterway,” she added. Mayor Elizabeth Patterson said she’s excited about Flavor Insights’ presence in Benicia. She said environmentally friendly businesses are not only good for the planet, but good for the economy. “One-third of the jobs in the state are in clean tech. They know the public wants it. This is the right direction.

Businesses know that the city of Benicia put out a green welcome mat a long time ago. We’re receptive and welcoming to these kinds of businesses.”

Photos: Flavor Insights, Lisa Duncan Photography BeniciaMagazine.com • 17

WEST SIDE DOWNTOWN

Sees a Flurry of New Homes

By Sarah Rohrs Surrounded by water and dedicated open space, Benicia is primarily built out, with few places left for homeowners and developers to put up new housing. With its local charm and waterfront setting, Benicia is in a prime location. Part of the simmering hot Bay Area housing market, by several accounts it has one of the healthiest real estate markets in the region.

Those forces, combined with a strengthened economy, have resulted in a flurry of home building activity on the few remaining empty residential parcels in town, on the west side near the water. “We are definitely seeing a lot of activity,” said Christina Ratcliffe, the city’s Community Development Director, who noted an overall increase in building permits for a variety of residential construction activity.

Some of the current home construction now taking place includes remodeling and additions, plus tearing down existing structures and building new ones. Some folks are taking advantage of the city’s residential solar incentive program, and various financing programs to install energy-reducing home features. “We are coming out of the recession and folks are feeling more comfortable with kitchen remodels, adding a new room or taking on more elaborate projects," said Ratcliffe.

With the town mostly built out residentially, homeowners and developers are getting creative in filling the need for more housing. Besides all the remodeling, more than a few new homes are going up, too. Amidst the activity are five new single-family homes on West L Street across from Benicia High School, and four parcels being prepared for new home construction on West K Street near West 10th. More construction is dotted throughout the west side, including on the few empty parcels remaining on the waterfront. Some new home construction is also in the works on the east side, though ground 18 • Benicia Magazine

has not yet been broken. There are no new homes currently being built in Southampton as all the lots in that area have been built out, said Ratcliffe.

Vacant parcels for sale in Benicia attract a lot of interest. But Ratcliffe said what’s usually not publicized is that these lots are usually among the more challenging to build on, such as waterfront lots whose boundaries are partially underwater. Benicia architect Steve McKee, who has helped many residents design their dream homes, is building his own family’s home on a waterfront parcel on West 6th Street, which has a strict height limitation and a cliff in the rear. He said the lot is mostly flat and he’s made special accommodations to make it safe over the years. Building a waterfront home has been a long-term goal. “I’ve been living in my West K Street home for the past 28 years. I knew I wanted to build something with a waterfront view and I went shopping for it in 2010,” when prices were still lower by Bay Area standards, he said. The new home is slated for completion this year.

Benicia has also seen some new accessory dwelling units in recent years, though Ratcliffe said she is not seeing a huge trend. Accessory

Saturday March 11th 1-5 pm 1-5pm

Let out your Irish cheer and sample craft beers inside participating downtown businesses. Wearing green is encouraged, but not required to have fun!

Ages 21 and older. dwelling units are small units on the same parcel as a single family home, and can include an apartment over a garage, or what’s known as a granny flat, built next to the main house.

One of these is currently under construction on what was a vacant parcel on West J Street between West 6th and West 7th Streets. The deep parcel will accommodate a larger, primary residence, currently in the planning stages, next to it.

Overall, these small units are gaining in popularity as a way to meet housing needs, as well as provide affordable housing.

Benicia has added seven since 2014, with three on the west side, two on the east side and two in the Southampton area, said Ratcliffe. They all add to the mix of housing available in the desirable Benicia housing market. With the recent activity, additional homes will be few and far between. McKee said that around town, there’s a general feeling that good parcels are scarce. In Benicia, the days of building major subdivisions are long gone. “There’s not a lot of space left even for minor subdivisions here. The little four-or-five-house subdivisions are rare.”

$25 advance/ $35 day of event

Tickets available at Benicia Main Street

90 First Street, or online at BeniciaMainStreet.org

707.745.9791

Photos: A few examples of downtown construction Lisa Duncan Photography BeniciaMagazine.com • 19

REDISCOVERING

iF rst t e e r St

Firs tS tre et

C Street

B Street

Parking Marina Green

s ret Bowle

by Marga n io t ra st illu

Downtown Benicia has its own brand of distinctive charm.

A hodgepodge of retail stores, art galleries, salons, offices, bars, and restaurants jostle for space with historic markers, plazas, and plenty of benches to get off your feet and observe the bustle. Given that the street is a mile long, it’s easy to miss something unless you are an avid walker.

20 • Benicia Magazine

First Street is an ever-changing landscape, with new businesses coming in and older ones going out. Since Benicia’s downtown is not a square like Healdsburg or Sonoma but a mile-long, tree-lined street stretching from City Park to the waterfront, it can be challenging for the casual visitor to remember what’s where. To eliminate the guesswork, we are offering this “First Street Primer,” block-by-block, starting at the waterfront and heading north. Each month we’ll feature one or two blocks; this month, we tackle First Street from A Street to C Street.

This area of downtown is highlighted with views of the Carquinez Strait and abundant open space along the promenade and First Street Green. It offers three restaurants, a pub, Benicia Main Street and the Tannery shops (the brick building on the west side). On this stretch of First Street, you’ll find art galleries, antiques stores, gift shops, restaurants and offices. Estey Real Estate is the new kid on the the block, relocating here from First & J Streets.

Benicia Main Street, inside the historic train depot on the east side of the street, and Sailor Jack’s, opposite and up a block, bookend the promenade, which just received a brand new iron railing. For dog walkers and other pedestrians, the west side

waterfront path was recently extended from the promenade to the north side of the Tannery building, exposing stunning views of the Strait. Most of the shops here are inside the Tannery, and include Art by Gail, ArtO’Bay, Timeless Memories, Bonjour Fashions, Once Upon a Canvas, Fabulous Finds, Chars Hot Dogs, Tina Marie and Cullen’s Tannery Pub. Continuing north, impressive art beckons inside two charming, historic buildings, housing the Plein Air Gallery and 621 Gallery of Fine Art. Opposite on the east side in the clock tower building sits The Loft Wine Bar and Restaurant and Yan Spa and Massage.

Between the waterfront and C Street, parking is generally ample along First Street and on the Spit, except during the farmers market, which runs April through October. During the market, parking can be found in spaces on B Street. The First Street Promenade comes alive in summer. It’s the perfect spot for a takeout picnic from the area’s eateries, people watching or waiting to see what the fishermen are catching. Restrooms and a water fountain are available in the yellow building on the Spit. Below is a complete list, courtesy Benicia Main Street, of the businesses in this section.

BENICIA MAIN STREET

90 First Street

beniciamainstreet.org

SAILOR JACK’S

123 First Street

sailor-jacks.com

ART & THINGS BY GAIl

129 F First Street

510.660.9602

ARTO’BAY

123 E First Street

artobay.com

TIMELESS MEMORIES

129 First Street

Facebook, Timeless Memories

ONCE UPON A CANVAS

129 J First Street

onceuponacanvasbenicia.com

BONJOUR FASHIONS

129 B-C First Street

707.361.5053

FABULOUS FINDS

131 First Street

707.750.5777

CHARS HOT DOGS

131 A First Street

707.745.4476

CULLEN’S TANNERY PUB

131 B First Street

tannerypub.com

TINA MARIE’S

131 C First Street

707.333.9687

ESTEY REAL ESTATE

216 First Street

esteyrealestate.com

THE LOFT WINE BAR

280 First Street

wine707.com

PLEIN AIR GALLERY

307 First Street

beniciapleinair.com

GALLERY 621

309 First Street

gallery621.com

YAN SPA AND MASSAGE

328 First Street

yansdayspa.com

BeniciaMagazine.com • 21

B AC KW ARD S G LAN C E

From Army Base to Industrial Space

Open Every Day 707-745-0254 22 • Benicia Magazine

l

By Elizabeth d’Huart, Executive Director BHM Photo: Breaking Ground for the Benicia Industrial Park, photo courtesy Benicia Historical Museum In 1961, the U.S. Army notified the Benicia Arsenal that it was to be closed on March 30, 1964, as a result of a nationwide military restructuring and modernization program. City officials petitioned to keep the base open even as equipment and personnel were being removed. When the property was transferred to the General Services Administration, city officials began to orchestrate the transition of the Arsenal into an industrial park (Benicia Industries).

The U.S. Government sold the city most of the Arsenal for $4.5 million. The sale required two acts of the California Legislature, the formation of the Surplus Property Agency, and the intervention of President Johnson, Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, Senator Claire Engle, Senator Luther Gibson and Governor Pat Brown. It also required the efforts of City Attorney John Bohn, Mayor James Lemos and City Council member Michael Fitzgerald, one lawsuit, and the scripting of a master lease with three subordinate subleases.

The army kept the military cemetery. Another parcel was later transferred to the State of California for use as an armory, now occupied by our local National Guard unit, the Benicia 749th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion. The Arsenal’s arc of history begins with the sword and ends with a plowshare, so to speak. The Industrial Park now generates the largest portion of tax revenue in the City and is home to 300 businesses, artist studios, and the Benicia Historical Museum at the Camel Barns, which is housed in the original 1850s military buildings where this remarkable story first began.

700 First St., Benicia, CA 94510

www.studio41.com

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Family Dentistry

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CHARLIE’S ATTIC

Collectibles-Antiques-Music Consignment and eBay drop-off

Lunch, afternoon tea, housemade desserts, fine teas & tea accessories

632 First St., Benicia

707.205.6960

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828 First Street • Downtown Benicia 707.746.5293 camelliatearoom.com

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431 First Street

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(707) 742-4142 364 First Street, Downtown Benicia heritagepantryandspice.com

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560 First St., Ste C103, Benicia

www.stevemcclure.net 707.745.0848

Showcase your business

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Mexican Food 640 First Street 707.746.7830 BeniciaMagazine.com • 23

INTERVIEW WITH

Jim Lydon

By Sue Sumner-Moore The legend of Batman follows Jim Lydon.

He got the nickname while working for the San Rafael Fire Department. A co-worker slapped a Batman sticker on Jim’s truck because he often was the first one to reach a call.

That tradition continued after he became Benicia’s fire chief in 2013. Jim was the first one on the scene when a fire broke out at Washington House in April of 2016.

“I was at the car show that day,” Jim recalls. “By the time the engine arrived, there was some guy in shorts with a hat already there, telling people what to do.”

Jim, 52, grew up in Marin County and was introduced to firefighting through the Boy Scouts' fire explorer program. He was hired as a San Rafael Fire Department dispatcher at age 16 and became a firefighter at 21. “Things have changed now,” he says, chuckling at the memory of how his career began.

He was named interim city manager in February, so he spends most of his time at City Hall these days. He remains the fire chief but daily fire operations are managed by others during the interim.

As fire chief, Jim oversees a department with 33 employees and an annual budget of about $8 million. Firefighters respond to medical emergencies, hazardous materials spills, rescues and fires. “We wear lots of hats. About 60 to 70 percent of our calls are medical. We see people at their worst times.”

The department also offers courses to the public on emergency response and fire prevention.

In addition to degrees in fire technology and fire administration, Jim earned a master’s in organizational leadership. He and his wife share homes in Benicia, Novato and San Diego.

Did you always want to be a firefighter?

I wasn’t one of those kids that wanted to be a firefighter all their life. Firefighting isn’t a family tradition. But from the time of being about Little League age, Boy Scout age, I knew several firefighters because they were involved with those programs. One leader told me about the fire explorer program and I started at age 14.

I’ve never worked with the historical element parts. I’ve learned there’s a lot more to finance than managing your budget.

These are great experiences and exposures. When I meet with other fire chiefs, I tell them that when you go to these meetings with city staff, pay attention—they might be saying something important.

When did you know you wanted to be a fire chief?

How does the city prepare for emergency situations?

I didn’t see myself as a fire chief 15, 20 years ago. But I always prepared myself for the next step.

When I became a fire captain, I took a look at the battalion chief requirements: What are the education requirements? What are the training requirements? I always followed the philosophy to be prepared for the next level. I always wanted to be able to go to the dance, even if I decided I didn’t want to go. Being prepared for the next level was the ticket to the dance. …

I was getting close to retirement, and I thought if don’t give it a shot as chief, I may feel there was something I didn’t do.

How has your time in the city manager’s office affected your work as chief?

I’m learning a lot. I’ve never been involved with public works or community development before. I know code enforcement but 24 • Benicia Magazine Interview

In the last couple of years, we’ve done a lot of training and we’ve modernized the technology in the EOC (Emergency Operations Center). We do these so people will feel comfortable working in the EOC. We can have representatives from the library, community services and other departments working there if it’s a full emergency. There are things they bring to the table, things like community service workers being very good at organizational skills and finding emergency housing if that’s needed.

What do you enjoy most about being fire chief?

The thing I enjoy the best is working individually with people in the department who want to grow in their careers, either by rising through the ranks or expanding their position. We have an opportunity to have a unique conversation about life and their goals.

I also like being out in the field. When I’m at the fire station fulltime, I assume emergency responsibility at least one day a week.

I still enjoy going out to emergencies and providing management.

What was the biggest surprise when you joined the Benicia department?

They don’t always tell you everything (chuckling). The phrase I coined was, “That wasn’t in the brochure.”

The biggest difference is the culture I came from is different from the culture here. Sometimes it works and sometimes I try to change the culture here.

I started on April 15, 2013, and I’d been here three weeks when I got a call at 2am. We’d had a series of small, nuisance fires and a volunteer firefighter for our department had been arrested for arson.

Then in July, Crude by Rail started.

We also had some equipment issues to deal with. The department had bought a used ladder truck and it wasn’t working properly. We’ve been relying on other agencies for a ladder truck for the past few years. But we just had staff return from a manufacturer in Nebraska and within a year we’ll have some brand-new equipment to serve the community.

None of that was in the brochure.

What new equipment is the city getting?

We’re getting a ladder truck. It’s really a combination vehicle because it also carries water and has pumping capability. We’re also getting a new fire engine and two new wildland engines.

These will position the department in terms of equipment for the next 15 to 20 years.

What programs does Benicia Fire offer to prepare the public for emergencies?

We’re starting a new program called Get Ready. It’s a two-anda-half hour program that covers the basics like how to turn off the gas in an emergency. We had our first session in January. We also have the full BERT (Benicia Emergency Response Team) training that goes into more depth. We also offer CPR classes. (For info on Benicia Fire programs, go to the Fire & Life Safety page and the Volunteer Services page on the department web site.)

Another key thing we’re doing to reach out to the public is increasing our presence on social media. We’re to share information out through Facebook and Twitter.

How does the city’s new emergency notification system work?

We had a siren system for years, but about six months ago began Alert Benicia. The system allows us to send text messages or email to people when there’s an emergency. If you’re away from home, you can find out that something is going on here at home.

What are you passionate about?

Helping others. Service to others is what we do and what I grew up around.

What’s next for you?

At some point down the road I plan to retire. I will probably do some consulting and teaching in the areas I find interesting— leadership in particular. That’s what I envision.

From Red Tagged to Red Ribbon!

We’re Moving

Come see us in our fabulous new space at 216 First Street!

ESTEY Since 1946

Real Estate Sales & Professional Property Management

CaBRE # 00674738

After over 50 years in the same location, we are moving our offices to the waterfront.

The former location at First & J Streets has been red-tagged by the City as unsafe.

Celebrating our 70th year of Business

707-745-0924 216 First Street, Benicia • www.esteyrealestate.com BeniciaMagazine.com • 25

TREN D S

It's a Wonderful Life

By Christina Strawbridge In the Frank Capra movie It's A Wonderful Life, a depressed George Bailey, played by Jimmy Stewart, questioned what his town would have been like if he had never existed.

Happily, an angel showed George that his existence made a huge difference to his family and the community of Bedford Falls. Watching the movie is a holiday tradition, but this time it provides a parallel to Benicia, and the Benicia Main Street Program.

In 1987, a group of citizens and the city council petitioned and qualified Benicia as one of the California Main Street charter cities, organized to protect and promote Benicia as a viable historic town. Through the years, a dedicated staff, board of directors and many volunteers have made Benicia a model for other cities throughout California and the United States. Benicia Main Street has kept our town vital with the Main Street philosophy, a 4-point program of organization, economic restructuring, design and promotion, which was developed through the National Historic Trust.

Let's pretend that Main Street didn't exist the last 30 years.

First off, forget the Benicia Certified Farmers Market that will begin its 25th year this April. There would be no one to bring weekly farm fresh produce April-October, attracting thousands to our downtown for an evening of shopping, entertainment and community gathering. The City of Benicia funded the market on a one-time basis in 1993, with the goal that it had to sustain itself in the future. Through the years Main Street has been able to grow the farmers market, with certified farmers who come from as far away as Watsonville, Point Reyes, and farms in Stanislaus County. Several of the original farmers will be still be participating in 2017.

The Christmas Parade and Holiday Open House would no longer be funded. There would be no money for insurance, clean up, portable potties or volunteers for the horsedrawn wagons rides. Lack of staff to coordinate the parade, entertainment, applicants, judges and awards would steal the holiday spirit from Benicia's residents.

The two-day Fourth of July celebration, which epitomizes Benicia's small town charm, would not take place since there wouldn’t be an organization to raise funds for the fireworks, to organize and staff our beloved Torchlight Parade and provide entertainment for the Picnic in the Park. The residents would have to go to neighboring cities to celebrate Independence Day. Halloween activities, such as the Children's Costume Contest and Parade, Haunted Depot, Ghost Walks and Scarecrow Contest would magically disappear without the Main Street staff and volunteers who work countless hours for children and families during the month of October.

The Waterfront Festival, Benicia’s only 2-day lineup of 26 • Benicia Magazine Trends

nonstop food, music and fun both days, attracts music fans and wine and beer lovers from around the Bay Area. This quality event brings shoppers and diners to the downtown, which helps fund the free events and promotions held year round. It could not take place because there would be no one to produce the event, coordinate volunteers, receive in-kind donations, rent equipment, book entertainment and handle the publicity, in addition to marketing throughout Northern California.

Downtown Benicia Restaurant Week, Taste of First Street, three annual Wine Walks (The Wine & Chocolate event sold out last month), St. Patrick's Day and Zombie Beer Crawls would be gone. The Taste of First Street would not be around to showcase the interesting mix of cuisine on First Street, with over 20 restaurants participating. There would be no one to get the permitting, promote the event and attract volunteers to work it.

The Teddy Bear Tea Parties would be gone, as well as Pamper Me Week and the “Where's Jack London?” promotions. These retail events draw thousands of potential customers to downtown Benicia year round. Local charities would not benefit from the partnering and fundraising opportunities through these downtown events. As far as the appearance of the downtown, take away the benches, flower planters, trash containers, banners, and the restoration of the Southern Pacific Rail Depot, which houses the Main Street program. It was Main Street that identified the original transportation grant of $250,000 that funded the building’s renovations, along with thousands of in-kind donations that Main Street and the City received to stabilize and restore this historic treasure. It has been home to Benicia Main Street since 2002, welcoming visitors on a daily basis and answering questions about the town and why there is a rail depot at the waterfront.

Dollars and the See's Candy fundraising store have had an impact on the success of retaining our local merchants and enticing new ones. Without these efforts, a boarded up downtown resembling a ghost town is a real possibility.

Without such a vital downtown, Benicia's property values might not be the highest in Solano County.

First Street remains the heart of the city. It’s our gathering place that fosters a feeling of connectedness to the community.

It’s our public face, leaving a lasting impression when people are first introduced to the town. Downtown Benicia has an enormous impact on those making the decision to live or work here.

George Bailey got the message that he, indeed, was very important to the town of Bedford Falls. Benicia Main Street is our George, and the organization that provides us with such a wonderful life. Happy 30th to them!

Angie’s List Super Service Award 2016

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 27

March 2017 Events of “What’s for Dinner”/Benicia Community Table. This popular monthly gathering focuses on good food and conversation about how to create meals that are practical and nutrient-dense while using local, sustainable ingredients as much as possible.

Each class features recipe packets, food prep techniques, nutritional information, and the opportunity to taste flavorful dishes made from produce, meat, dairy & fish. March’s theme is seafood with Siren Seafood CSA. Limited spaces, tickets $40 for Benicia residents, $50 for non-residents.

Beniciacommunitygardens.org/event

14th Annual International Ocean Film Festival

Look for the framed picture of Jack London at participating businesses and email the keyword found on the frame to Benicia Main Street to enter in the drawing for Downtown Dollars.

Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

3/9-12 Cowell Theater at Fort Mason Herbst Pavillion, 2 Marina Blvd, San Francisco The International Ocean Film Festival (IOFF), held in San Francisco, inspires people to appreciate and care for the ocean by revealing its wonders through independent films. IOFF produces an acclaimed festival of ocean-themed films from all over the world that are largely unavailable to the general public. Themes range from marine science and industry to sports and adventure, and films that entertain, educate, and encourage active participation in ocean conservation.

Tickets available online for full festival or single day attendance.

Oceanfilmfest.org

Nature Hike at King-Swett Ranches

Vallejo Art Walk

Joy of Benicia, by Donna Covey

Put Your Heart Into It Exhibit

3/1-4/2, Wed-Sun, 12-5pm The Hub Community Center for the Arts 350 Georgia Street, Vallejo This is an all media exhibit featuring work from the heart by local artists. The Hub is a place for people to connect, share knowledge, show work, build community, and create activity, interest, vibrance and prosperity.

Thehubvallejo.com 707.561.6514

Artist’s Reception Featuring Donna Covey

3/3, 5-7pm 117 East F Street, Benicia The public is invited to attend an artist reception featuring Donna Covey's newest paintings from her Benicia Alleys and Side Streets series. These latest works are now a part of her popular Northern California Neighborhoods portfolio. Join Donna and her hosts Milinda Perry and fellow artist Terry Hughes for appetizers while enjoying Donna's Contemporary Fauve Expressionist exhibit.

Findyourfabulous.com 707.361.5097

Where’s Jack London?

3/4-3/31 Downtown Benicia Benicia Main Street celebrates downtown’s “Antiques, Vintage & Collectibles” with a chance to win $100 in Downtown Dollars.

28 • Benicia Magazine Calendar

3/4, 9am-1pm Meet at unmarked Park-and-Ride lot McGary Road and Hiddenbrooke Parkway, Vallejo Explore the hills between Fairfield, Benicia, and Vallejo. Solano Land Trust docents will guide you through this area, known as the King-Swett Ranches. They'll share insights about the birds and other wildlife that call this area home, and give you a great workout! Take advantage of this special opportunity if you can because the KingSwett Ranches are otherwise closed. See website for registration (hike is free) and instructions on how to be prepared.

Solanolandtrust.org

Sustainable Solano Presents “Cooking with Seasonal Ingredients”

3/8, 6-8pm Benicia Community Center Kitchen 370 East L Street, Benicia Sustainable Solano (formerly Benicia Community Gardens) is hosting a series of hands-on classes to celebrate its 6th season

3/10, 6-11pm Downtown Vallejo Vallejo has seen a surge of artists and creatives moving into the area. The art walk is an event to celebrate and encourage the growth of this culture. This event is completely independent and relies on art lovers to come support the artists. Most locations are in the central core of the downtown and very walkable, but some are spread out a few blocks in each direction.

Visit the website for a full list of artists and spaces.

Vallejoartwalk.com

Voice & Vision Creative Women’s Symposium

3/11, 1-4pm Arts Benicia Gallery 991 Tyler Street, Suite 114, Benicia Benicia-Vallejo American Association of University Women (AAUW) and Arts Benicia co-host this symposium that will feature art sharing the expression across four generations of women. A panel will discuss messages exchanged between society and

Solano County Fair Youth Ag Day

3/14 Solano County Fairgrounds 900 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo Youth Ag Day is a collaborative effort of the Solano County Fair and agricultural related businesses, organizations, farmers, ranchers and other individuals to encourage Solano County third graders to experience agriculture firsthand. This fun and educational event is free to all third grade classes in Solano County and features a wide variety of rotational learning stations and displays. Activities are designed to give children the opportunity to learn about food and fiber production from new perspectives, with a particular emphasis on the agricultural wealth of Solano County.

Scfair.com/youthagday.html 707.551.2002

St. Patrick’s Day 3/17

Sing a Story with San Francisco Opera

Mon-Sat only, 6am-3pm

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3/12, 2-5pm Hogan Auditorium 850 Rosewood Ave, Vallejo The Next Chapter: Season 85’s Program 2 starts with a preconcert talk at 2pm. The concert begins at 3pm with the following pieces: Haydn Symphony No.8, Evening; Kabalevsky Violin Concerto in C major, featuring Kay Stern, Concertmaster, San Francisco Opera Orchestra; Tchikovsky Symphony No. 6 in B minor, Pathetique.

Vallejosymphony.org 707.643.4111

10

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Vallejo Symphony Concert

BREAKFAST • SEAFOOD • SALADS • STEAK • PASTA • WRAPS • FLATBREAD

ria

3/11, 1-5pm First Street, Downtown Benicia The Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day, let out your Irish cheer and sample craft beers inside participating businesses. Meander your way through downtown’s interesting shops while enjoying a unique selection of popular brews.

Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

3/25, 2 & 6pm Vacaville Performing Arts Center 1010 Ulatis Drive, Vacaville Benicia Ballet Theatre presents Giselle under the artistic direction of Margaret Rose Kenrick. Giselle is a young maiden who falls in love with Duke Albrecht, disguised as a peasant. When Giselle realizes he is betrothed to another, her weak heart fails her. In death, Giselle dances among the Willis, spirits of young maidens who had been deceived by their lovers. They encourage her to take revenge, but Giselle must follow the spirit of her true heart. Giselle’s artistic merit lives in the ballet’s love story of persons divided by social class boundaries and challenged by the inequalities that divide people due to social stigmas.

Honesty and commitment are found to be true values in life.

Beniciaballet.org/theater/ performance 707.746.6757

9th Year Anniversary!

ust

Saint Patrick’s Day Beer Crawl

Benicia Ballet Spring Performance: Giselle

Ind

women. Reception will begin at 1pm with music by Jazz Guerilla.

Panel will be at 2pm, followed by art purchase.

Beniciavallejo-ca-aauw.net

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680

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One coupon per table.

Exp. 3/31/17

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3/25, 2:30pm Benicia Public Library 150 East L Street, Benicia The interactive program presented by a member of the San Francisco Opera Guild will feature scenes from Hansel and Gretel for ages 5 and up. The event is free. Come prepared to sing!

Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

Benicia Mini Maker Faire

4/2, 10am-4pm Benicia Middle School 1100 Southampton Road Benicia The third annual Benicia Mini Maker Faire is part science fair, part county fair, and part something entirely new. As a celebration of the Maker Movement, it’s a familyfriendly showcase of invention, creativity, and resourcefulness.

Faire gathers together tech enthusiasts, crafters, educators, tinkerers, food artisans, hobbyists, engineers, science clubs, artists, students, and commercial exhibitors. Makers come to show their creations and share their learnings.

Attendees come to glimpse the future and find the inspiration to become Makers themselves.

Beniciamakerspace.org 707.654.4131

City of Benicia

Tree Regulations Trees beautify our city. They also create shade, produce oxygen and remove carbon dioxide.

Incorrect pruning includes tipping the branch or topping the tree, causing: — Unsafe sprouts — Dangerously tall branching — Branch weakening & decay Pruning and removal of trees may require a permit.

Call 707.746.4285 or visit www.ci.benicia.ca.us Parks & Community Services.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 29

• Serving the Benicia/Vallejo area for over 70 years • Only on-site crematory in the area • Funerals, memorials, VA Burials John “Shermâ€? Passalacqua

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Voted Best Funeral Home In Solano County 7 Years In A Row

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS!

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620 First Street 707-746-7565 2156 First Street Livermore, CA 94550

800 First Street, Ste. A, Benicia • 707-746-8656

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MUSIC • SCIENCE • ART mozarteinsteinandme.com

Benicia’s Award Winning

Speaker Company

Create a warm & cozy home with an energy-efficient gas fireplace or insert.

Exceptional Loudspeakers since 1986

Quality Home & Leisure Products

707.745.5933

Now Hear This.

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Speakers starting at $250 a pair

30 • Benicia Magazine

Dolby Atmos Certified

(select models only)

www.calcomfort.com 4680 East 2nd St., Benicia

Celebrating Our 37th Year!

Huge savings on select in-stock models

Welcome to Tosch Dental

Feel at home—even in the dental chair!

Full-service dentistry | In-house lab, ensures perfect fit | Orthodontics | 50% off bleach with exam & cleaning | Relaxed and comfortable environment Proudly serving Benicia families for over 25 years.

Ronald J. Tosch, DDS l 118 West K St. 707.745.2130 l www.toschdental.com

BeniciaMagazine.com • 31

Contractor's License # 678979

Celebrating 25 Years

AFFORDABLE QUALITY Cabinets and Countertops Receive either a 9" Nourot vase or a $150 gift certificate to Romancing the Home with the purchase of a complete kitchen.

“Cabinets and countertops have come a long way! AQCC has the soft closing doors and pull-outs, and deep drawers for pots and pans that has made cooking a simple, luxurious breeze. Very good workmanship for a very fair price.

AQCC—another reason it's better in Benicia!”

—Carmen & Dan

Open Mon. - Fri. 9-5

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

707-745-2100 l aqc@aqchome.com