Benicia Magazine September 2012

Harvesting

your Own BackYard

Benicia Green Home Goes for LEED GOLD

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4 • Benicia Magazine

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 5

Benicia Magazine SEPTEMBER VOLUME 7 ISSUE 11

16

12

Features

14 Benicia Schools Target Healthier Food for Kids 16 18

Weekend Getaway to Half Moon Bay Local Couple Go for Gold with New Benicia Green Home

Departments 10 From the Editor 12

Currents Reaping the harvest from your own backyard Preparations underway for annual art gala Great expectations in the Benicia real estate market

20 Food-Travel-Spirits

Tapping into Benicia beer

24 Interview

Beverly White, Heritage Presbyterian Church Minister

6 • Benicia Magazine

26 Fashionista

Important underpinnings through history

28 September Calendar of Events 30 Listening

Featured musician Bryan Girard

30 Live Music Calendar Cover photo: Amy Belluzzi's Benicia Backyard Garden, by Jerry Bowles Top left: Half Moon Bay Brewing Co. courtesy, of Mary Oldham Top right: Lindsay Art Glass Vase, Benicia Magazine archives

Community News Need additional copies? Contact the Community Relations office: Valero Benicia Refinery, 3400 East Second Street, Benicia, CA 94510

707-745-7534 September 2012

Benicia Community Gardens Thrive “healthful food, fellowship, beauty and discovery” The Benicia community will benefit for years to come from support received through the 2008 Valero/Good Neighbor Steering Committee Settlement Agreement and its 2010 amendment.

A sampling of projects funded in recent years from the $14 million fund include the Benicia Community Center, the Benicia Tree Foundation and Benicia High School’s Green Academy.

One small, yet prominent recipient of VIP settlement dollars is Benicia Community Gardens, Inc. (BCG), a nonprofit organization that manages both Swenson Garden and Avant Garden.

Its mission is primarily educational, serving goals of the City of Benicia’s Climate Action Plan to provide for local food security by growing food within city limits wherever possible and feasible.

Since 2003, a dedicated board of directors has administered BCG and its related projects. According to Marilyn Bardet, chairperson of the board of directors, “Growing food locally increases community resilience and reduces energy costs.”

Donations are welcome, including basic garden materials, equipment and tools.

There is no membership fee to join the

Avant Garden

Swenson Garden organization, but a small fee is charged to cover water charges for those who are assigned a garden plot.

Gardeners are provided the basics on a first-come, first-served basis: raised beds, including eco-soil to fill them, garden tools and equipment for general use on site.

Produce is harvested for private use by gardeners or may be donated.

Surplus from harvests may be given to personal friends or donated to BCGselected food share programs, but produce cannot be sold.

On the first Wednesday of the month, a potluck lunch is held at noon at Swenson Garden for anyone who wants to learn more about gardening.

SWENSON GARDEN Military and East 2nd Streets The garden was created in 1999 by Meg Grumio and the late Dr. Ed Swenson, with help of an initial grant awarded by Solano County. Property owner Heritage Presbyterian Church offers a $1 per year lease for the space.

AVANT GARDEN BCG at First & D Streets In 2010, BCG signed a modest monthly lease with Estey Real Estate to establish this second community garden. Located in the heart of downtown Benicia, this garden has heightened awareness about organic urban farming.

Info@beniciacommunitygardens.org www.BeniciaCommunityGardens.org

Wetlands Project Benefits Suisun Marsh

Valero dredged material is pumped into a designated wetland management cell to raise the elevation of the wetland.

Valero’s ongoing efforts to capture sediments dredged from the Valero dock and deposit them for beneficial use now includes the Montezuma Wetlands Project in the San Francisco Estuary.

This project will restore over 1,800 acres of wetlands in the Suisun Marsh using approximately 20 million cubic yards of sediment dredged from the region's ports and waterways.

“The project will provide a tremendous

Fast Facts: Valero’s Benicia Asphalt Plant produces

40 percent of Northern California’s asphalt.

regional boost to the protection and recovery of numerous wetland-dependent fish, wildlife, and plant species,” say John Lazorik, Benicia resident and a Valero Senior Staff Environmental Engineer.

Since 1968, when the refinery accepted its first cargo of crude oil, dredged materials removed from the berthing area (about 50,000 cubic yards per year) have been disposed of at specific, permitted Bay Area aquatic disposal sites.

Safety First: K eep your driveway and walkways clear of falling leaves, as they may become slippery when wet.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 7

Benicia Magazine’s Free weekly e-newsletter Weekends in Benicia & around the Bay Our Top Picks for Bay Area Events Sign up online at beniciamagazine.com

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Celebrating our 8th Year Editor Jeanne Steinmann

Benicia Graphic Design Margaret Bowles

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Web Specialist Yarrow Sweningsen

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Benicia Contributing Writers Bob Ecker Rhonda Lucile Hicks Eric Hogland Sue Sumner-Moore Adriene Rockwell Beth Steinmann Christina Strawbridge

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Contributing Photographers Lisa Duncan, Jerry Bowles Editorial deadlines The 1st of the month prior to the issue month

Advertising sales 707.853.5226 adsales@beniciamagazine.com Advertising deadlines New ads: the 5th of the month prior to the issue month Ad changes: the 1st of the month prior to the issue month

Contact Us 707.853.5226, Beniciamagazine.com editor@beniciamagazine.com Administration Office Manager Rise Goebel Copy Editor/proofreader Beth Steinmann Benicia Magazine is published monthly by Polygon Publishing, LLC Copyright © 2012, 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, P.O. Box 296, Benicia, CA 94510. 707.853.5226, beniciamagazine.com.

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 9

From the Editor September 2012 August flew by like a rocket! Home improvement, summer travel and a husband on sabbatical made for a very busy month. I visited Tahoe twice in August for long weekends in Squaw Valley—once for hiking its majestic bowls and to check out where to stay and where to eat (read it online on the Travel page)—and once for relaxing poolside. My first trip coincided with the summer Olympics. It was fun to be there, at the site of the 1960 winter games, and commune in spirit with Olympic athletes and members of Benicia’s youth singing group VOENA, who performed at this summer’s games.

September taps into Benicia’s abundant creative flow with three annual art events: the Chamber of Commerce’s Arts & Crafts Fair, a huge, pedestrian-only First Street affair; Arts Benicia’s benefit auction at the Clocktower and the annual Rotary/Arts Benicia Expanding Experiences art, wine and cheese event in the lower Arsenal. In this issue Sue Sumner-Moore talks with Beverly White, who co-founded and chairs Expanding Experiences with former police Chief Jim Trimble. Each of the three events has a distinct character that allows locals and visitors an opportunity to immerse or dip a toe into the many ways art manifests here in town.

School’s back in session—please remember to slow down and be watchful for kids on bikes and foot. Additionally, the Intermodal Facilities Project at First and Military is under construction, so use caution there as well. I look forward to its completion, this will be a nice improvement to downtown’s entry.

Tweet, post or send your suggestions & ideas to: editor@beniciamagazine.com www.beniciamagazine.com Photo by Lisa Duncan

Jeanne Steinmann

I really enjoyed the article on Benicia’s parks.

Bill and I have carved out an afternoon for a picnic and a visit to all of Benicia’s Parks.

–Leeann Cawley

I really enjoyed the August issue, and learned about a new park we'd not been to. Bruce and I have never been to Lake Herman either—nor Camino de Santiago! A perfect summer read.

–Adriene Rockwell

10 • Benicia Magazine

There may be a very good reason Lake Herman Park is underutilized, besides being “off the beaten path.” Lake Herman used to be our favorite park because it is quiet, uncrowded and it is a good break from downtown. However we quit going there several years ago because the resident park employee made park users feel unwelcome.

On numerous occasions while having a picnic lunch, reading or returning from a hike, we encountered the park employee lurking about with a camera taking photos of park patrons, their cars and license plates. We are unaware of any safety or security issues at Lake Herman which require surveillance of park patrons.

–Michael L. Brown

Knowing Mike and his earnest purpose in setting off on such a trek of discovery, I was really struck by his revelatory descriptions about what his journey meant to him and his humility, observing others, enjoying the connections made when seemingly alone, as he looked to his walking companions or the moon. Thank you, Beth, for such a sensitive account of your father's experience, which I imagine mirrors what untold thousands have felt over millennia, walking the historic "Road to Compostela" for healing. And thank you, Mike, for offering your experience to us at home.

–Marilyn B. I very much appreciate the leadership you give to Benicia and the great example you have set as a publisher and community builder—you are an inspiring weaver of the community narrative.

–Wolfram Alderson

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Amy Belluzzi's Benicia backyard garden, photo by Jerry Bowles

Preparations Underway for Annual Art Gala

By Beth Steinmann Every morning as I fill the teakettle with fresh water, I look out the kitchen window and scan my garden. What’s blooming, what’s growing taller? Our sunflowers have gotten so big that I can’t even see their tops as I peer out. Sometimes I recall the first months after we moved in, when the yard was bare except for a few stragglers leftover from the previous tenants. Now we have four raised-beds for vegetables and three small herb and flower gardens. We got a late start the first season but ended up with some great cherry tomatoes and lemon cucumbers, and a lot of crookneck squash. This year we planned better and started sooner—now our harvest is in full-swing.

According to the National Gardening Association, 36 million US households grow gardens. More than half of these reported growing their own food because it saves grocery money and it tastes better. Benicia is ahead of the curve when it comes to backyard gardens—I see more and more vegetable gardens sprouting up around town. Benicia Community Garden has set a trend with its visible locations on the corner of Military East and East Second at Heritage Presbyterian Church, and its newer location on First and D Streets.

What's a home garden really worth? One wacky couple, founders of Kitchen Gardeners International, did the math.

Roger Doiron’s wife, Jacqueline, suggested that they weigh each harvest and price the items up at grocery store prices (they did three comparisons: farmer's market, conventional grocery store and Whole Foods), then subtract their gardening expenses. Over the season, they saved $2149.15 (www.kgi. org/node/2547%23comment-5349). These are experienced gardeners with a fairly high crop yield. But part of the beauty of growing your own food is that the learning never stops— novices and master gardeners alike will always have challenges to overcome and something to remember for next season.

Despite life’s endless to-do list, prioritizing time to garden can be endlessly rewarding.

When children experience firsthand the magic of nurturing a plant from seed to fruit, it gives them an invaluable connection to their food. With a growing number of children being diagnosed with nutrition and weight related diseases, cultivating this connection in the home is important.

Eighty six percent of the National Gardening Association's 36 million backyard gardeners reported growing tomatoes, making them the most popular homegrown fruit nationwide.

Cucumbers came in second, followed by sweet peppers, beans, carrots, summer squash, onions, hot peppers, lettuce and peas.

Culinary herbs are easy to grow and lend added spice and vigor to any home-cooked meal. What’s popping up in your garden B this season?

Arts Benicia has two big reasons to revel at this year’s annual art auction, one of Solano County’s most significant and fun events. The premier arts organization is celebrating their silver anniversary, and the 20th anniversary of the auction itself.

This is an opportunity for locals to celebrate our rich cultural bounty by experiencing art on an intimate level. Socializing with friends, sipping wine or a cocktail, viewing fine art and generally having a great time are all part of a magical evening.

This is one party where you can dress up, dress down

12 • Benicia Magazine Currents

Oct Ben Mag vol7 v12.indd 12

8/24/12 3:42 PM

Great Expectations for Benicia Real Estate

PRICE

ADDRESS

BR

BA

SQ. FT.

TYPE

$76,000

1830 Shirley Dr

1

1/0

641

COND

$98,500

900 Cambridge Dr

2

1/0

1087

COND

$110,500

900 Cambridge Dr

2

1/0

1087

COND

$111,000

331 Blanchard L

2

2/0

939

COND

$118,800

314 Blanchard L

2

2/0

939

COND

$130,000

333 Blanchard L

2

2/0

939

COND

$150,000

735 Buchanan St

2

2/0

968

COND

$179,000

33 La Cruz Ave

2

1/0

764

RESI

$185,000

1119 Grove Cir

3

2/1

1442

RESI

$235,000

422 E J St

2

1/0

790

RESI

$239,000

1032 E 5th St

2

2/0

1282

RESI

$240,000

492 E E St

3

3/0

1434

COND

$264,900

255 E 2nd St

2

2/1

1370

COND

$290,500

26 La Prenda Av

3

2/0

1490

RESI

$325,000

87 Buena Vista

3

2/0

1653

RESI

$326,000

907 Rose Dr

4

2/1

2164

RESI

$335,000

226 Military St

2

1/1

1696

RESI

$339,000

2138 Via Media

5

2/1

1696

RESI

$370,000

107 Panorama Dr

4

3/0

3153

RESI

$372,000

930 W 9th St

2

1/0

1248

RESI

$390,000

515 Solano Dr

4

2/1

1775

RESI

$400,000

536 E I St

3

2/0

1558

RESI

$403,000

418 York Dr

3

2/1

2742

RESI

$460,000

250 Olive Branc

4

2/1

2497

RESI

$463,750

530 Hastings Dr

3

2/1

3006

RESI

—The market is challenging and changing. Lack of inventory forces you to be on top of your game in making and reviewing offers, and being prepared for the multiple offer situation. Don’t be offended by an offer/ counter offer; if the deal is not for you, move on or find a middle ground.

$468,900

472 Mills Dr

4

2/1

2795

RESI

$495,000

723 Kearney St

5

4/0

4020

RESI

$505,000

501 Townsend Dr

4

2/1

3162

RESI

­ Your agent should be optimistic, but realistic, and deliver news in a timely — manner. Do your homework on your lender too. Don’t choose one solely on a tickler ad with a low rate; make sure they will work with you to find the best product for your needs.

$505,000

481 Gallagher D

6

4/0

3761

RESI

$510,000

420 York Dr

4

3/0

2569

RESI

$545,600

445 Lansing Cir

5

4/0

3980

RESI

—Talk with inspectors if you are concerned about a roof report, pest or whole house inspection. Make sure they help differentiate between a real red flag and something that just looks scary on paper.

$550,000

723 Primrose Ln

4

3/0

2589

RESI

$560,500

445 Samuel Ct

4

3/0

3485

RESI

$575,000

725 Kearney St

5

4/0

4233

RESI

$603,000

650 Woodbridge

5

4/0

4233

RESI

$710,000

580 W I St

4

3/0

2320

RESI

By Eric Hoglund, Estey Real Estate I find the greatest stress a buyer or seller encounters is caused by unrealistic expectations. Buying or selling a home can be an exciting, terrifying, eventful experience. Having a good real estate agent explain the process and help you navigate negotiations is key, but as the customer in the transaction, it is equally important to keep your head and regulate enthusiasm and/or frustration.

The real estate process is made up of many parts: the search for that perfect home, the offer proposal and acceptance, inspections and disclosures, loan approval and finally, funding and closing. There are time frames and key milestones that, in order to be met, all parties must do their part. There could be many players in this game: buyer and seller, possibly a tenant, multiple banks, real estate agents, title company, appraiser and various inspectors and other vendors employed by the above. In a perfect world this would be easy, right? Everyone would do their job on time, on budget. Unfortunately, we do not live in a perfect world and likely one or more of the players will not deliver. Whether it is negligence, incompetence or, more often than not, an inability to meet deadlines due to workloads or conflicting agendas, there will be bumps in the road. Be ready for the inevitability of these issues so that solving them is easier.

A prime example is the seemingly endless period of time a short-selling bank may make you endure while they decide if they will accept the deficiency offer, with a complete lack of communication. Do yourself a favor and make sure to prepare for this “hurry up and wait” reality before you list or purchase a home. You will be more at ease and able to make well-informed decisions. Do your homework and be prepared for problems that may arise, and work with your partners to overcome adversities.

HERE ARE A FEW SIMPLE WAYS TO SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS

—It may be a bumpy ride, but think of it as an adventure overcoming manageable obstacles rather than one monumental climb. You will be happier throughout the process. Benicia is a fantastic place with a vibrant real estate market; you SHOULD have great expectations. B

or dress with personality. Competing with your friends in a silent or live auction for a one-of-a-kind painting, hand-blown glass, weaving, woodcarving, sculpture, mixed media print or many other types of unique art amps up excitement. Lucky silent and live auction bidders come away with something of lasting quality as well as memories to be retold into the future.

“The arts are booming. I think people are aware of the value and liveability that the arts bring to our town. The auction brings people together—artists, art enthusiasts, lay people and sponsors. We love the

creative culture of our town and want to sustain that culture long-term,” says Laura Buchan, Arts Benicia’s program director.

“It’s exciting. There’s also a cross-cultural connection happening between cities through art.”

This year’s auction will be held at the Benicia Clocktower at 6:30 pm, Saturday, September 22. There’s a no-host bar: Beer and wine will be available and The Rellik Tavern will be on hand making a specialty cocktails. Free hors d’oeuvres are compliments B of local eateries. Don’t miss it!

BeniciaMagazine.com • 13

Oct Ben Mag vol7 v12.indd 13

8/24/12 3:42 PM

Benicia Schools Target Healthier Food for Kids

Photos courtesy of Healty Cooking with Kids, Inc.

By Adriene Rockwell Raising our children to have healthy eating habits may be the most important thing we can do for them. In our country, diet related diseases are now the highest cause of death in children under 15, and childhood obesity has reached pandemic proportions. If our children don’t change the way they eat, 45% of them will be insulin dependent in the next decade, and for the first time in our history, their life expectancy will be 10 years shorter than our own.

Although First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move campaign has brought national awareness to the cause, Benicians have been fighting for healthy meals in the schools for nearly a decade. Bruce Hall, Director of Food and Nutrition Services for the BUSD has made dramatic changes to the program since he began in 2009, moving away from processed, pre-packaged foods, to more meals prepared from scratch. As a result, Benicia is making less of a leap than other districts to meet new USDA regulations.

After President Obama’s Healthy, Hunger Free Act of 2010, the USDA made the first major changes to its school meals in 15 years.

The new rules went into effect on July 1, 2012 and require schools to serve lower sodium meals with both fruits and vegetables, and whole grain options—every day. Sugar is not yet regulated, however there are maximum and minimum calorie requirements for each age group.

The biggest challenge, says Hall, is finding healthy foods at reasonable prices that are also accepted by the students. “Students are now required to take ½ cup of fruits or vegetables with their meals, whether they eat it or not,” Hall says about the new rule.

“There are concerns nationwide that our waste and compost bins may be fuller than our children.”

On the other hand, Judith Tata, parent advocate and recent Chair of the district’s Wellness Committee believes: “If we only offer children healthy choices, they will eat them.” She adds: “For many children, the only healthy meal they get in a day is at school.”

At home and at school, the obstacle to healthy eating often

14 • Benicia Magazine

boils down to costs, and the economics are complicated. With the new rules, schools will pay an additional 25 to 35 cents per meal, and families will pay about 50 cents more per meal. Because the district provides free or reduced lunches for only 20% of its students, it receives less in USDA reimbursements to offset costs of healthier foods.

Nationally, the new rules will cost the USDA $3.2 billion over the next five years, but is still competing with the $150 billion fast food industry that is targeting children with quick, inexpensive meals that are packed with processed, unhealthy ingredients. Education is core to the solution, but more is needed.

Norma Lisenko, founder of Healthy Cooking with Kids (HCK) in Benicia, shares the philosophy of experts like Alice Waters, of the Edible Schoolyard Project in Berkeley, who believe that engaging children in the process of growing and preparing their own nutritious foods increases their likelihood of consuming them. For the past four years, HCK has provided hands-on cooking, tasting of seasonal fruits and vegetables and other nutrition programs in our classrooms and cafeterias. Lisenko is part of an effort to bring the national Farm to Schools program to Benicia; an initiative that would purchase organic produce from local farmers for our school menus.

BUSD Superintendent Janice Adams credits the positive changes in food culture over the past decade to the collaborative effort of the School Board, teachers, administrators, local businesses, passionate parents, and a growing number of students—many who participate on the Wellness Committee. These changes will improve lives, but in reality, schools feed their students only 180 days of the year—and for most children, that’s less than 20% of their meals.

“We want children to be healthy, and we know that healthy children learn better. We have an obligation to do our part in educating children, and making sure they are eating healthy at school, says Adams. “But we can’t do it alone.” B

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 15

Half Moon Bay more than just a pumpkin festival

“…sea air, pretty downtown, impressive eateries and abundant activities make Half Moon Bay a great day trip or weekend escape…”

By Jeanne Steinmann If Half Moon Bay isn’t on your radar screen, it should be, and for more than just the annual Pumpkin Festival. A recent weekend getaway revealed a bustling seaside village that is both quaint and modern. The first thing that strikes you upon entering its downtown core is how clean it is, as if elves come out at night to do a once-over spit and polish, right down to the meticulous flower pots and baskets. Locally owned shops line the streets: boutiques, galleries and independent bookstores and coffee shops.

The shop, stroll and coffee culture is not the only thing happening in HMB. There’s plenty to keep you busy—wine tasting, glass blowing demos, farm visits, kayaking, surfing, golf, horseback riding, tide pools, biking or a picnic at the beach are all part of the scene. And the food! Eating in HMB is sheer pleasure—locally sourced produce, cheese, meat and seafood are staples at many eateries. Lodging options range from budget-friendly hotels to the luxurious Ritz Carlton, and numerous bed and breakfast inns. We stayed at the Beach House Inn, a boutique hotel located on the beach just north of town. The spacious, upscale loft-style suites are quiet and well appointed, with fireplaces, comfortable beds and a balcony or patio. Complimentary continental breakfast is included.

Prices to eat and sleep seem remarkably reasonable for the quality. The sea air, pretty downtown, impressive eateries and abundant activities make Half Moon Bay a great day trip or weekend escape for couples or families. For more information, see visithalfmoonbay.org.

Photo top: Heading for the surf, by Jay Graham; Photo middle: Salmon tacos at Half Moon Bay Brewing Company, courtesy of Mary Oldham; Photo bottom: Kids playing with goats at Harley Farm, photo by Jay Graham

16 • Benicia Magazine

Are You Ready To Give Up Those Reading Glasses?

On the patio at Half Moon Bay Brewing Company, courtesy of Mary Oldham

WHAT TO DO

The nooks and crannies of Pillar Point Harbor beg to be explored by kayak. The enthusiastic crew at Half Moon Bay Kayak Co. will set you up with a boat to suit your skill level. hmbkayak.com.

La Nebbia Winery produces four whites, three reds and three desert wines, as well as gourmet food products.

Peruse the lovely event gardens while you sip. Tasting Fees $8; $2 for port served in a chocolate cup. Open 10-5 daily. lanebbiawinery.com.

Half Moon Bay Art Glass is a few steps away from La Nebbia. Stop in and watch glassblowing demonstrations M-F 10-5 and most weekends. custommade.com/by/ HMBArtGlass.

Harley Farms, a working goat dairy and retail store, is open for tours on weekends or by appointment. Learn the process of making Chevre from milking to packaging; and mingle with the goats and the llamas that protect them from predators. harleyfarmscom.

You can!

WHERE TO EAT

Flavor—“California comfort food” served in midcentury modern décor, sourced from “vendors with integrity.” Along with old favorites like mac ’n cheese and pot pies are inspired burgers and salads, pastas and seafood dishes. Everything is made in-house, down to the Pinot Noir Sorbet. It’s a great spot near the harbor to satisfy post-kayak hunger. flavoronthecoast.com.

Half Moon Bay Brewing Company—More than a meal, HMB Brewing Company is a social and culinary experience.

A large facility with indoor and outdoor dining, this brew pub makes seriously good craft beer, with seriously tasty grub to match. The menu features locally caught seafood, fresh oysters, flatiron steak and much more, with recommended beer pairings. hmbbrewingco.com.

It’s Italia—A family friendly trattoria with brick oven pizza, house Panini, pasta, salads and grilled fish. The incredibly fresh food can be enjoyed in the dining room, bar or on the terrace. The wine list is 150-bottles strong, a real plus if you want to try something different. Even after a hearty entrée, it’s hard to turn down appealing desserts served in a martini glass. itsitaliarestaurant.com.

Sam’s Chowder House—On a bluff above the Pacific, this local institution has garnered numerous awards for great seafood, served with a killer ocean view. The restaurant is large with many indoor and outdoor seating areas. The huge lobster roll sandwich is legendary; or try the fresh grilled catch of the day or the excellent raw bar. samschowderhouse.com. B

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 17

Local Couple Go for Gold with New Benicia Green Home

By Jeanne Steinmann A few years ago, local couple Josh and Kathy Jacobs purchased a waterfront lot on the bike path between West 4th and West 5th Streets on which to build their family dream home. They were interested in going about it in an energy efficient way, which ultimately led them to seek LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification from the US Green Building Council. There are many commercial LEED certified projects in Solano County’s seven cities, but no residences as of mid-August, according to the organization’s website, USGBC.org. The Jacob’s home is now under construction and they are hoping to garner, at minimum, a LEED Gold certification, the second highest level of four: LEED Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum.

To reach their goals, the couple hired local architect Tom Wilson, who is LEED accredited, and Pat Donohue, a Benicia general contractor who has built other homes with green features. “I like the renewable energy projects around town,” says Josh. “We wanted an energy efficient house.

We interviewed a lot of contractors—the process took over a year. Pat is a genius. I would throw out a concept, and he would turn it into actual actions to create something useable.”

The home is a large two-story; three if you include the full basement. Extra points needed to be realized from the green aspects to offset deductions for the size. There are too many green items to the home’s construction to list here, but they include the use of Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) in the basement walls, LED lighting and combined photovoltaic and hydronic heating, which, according to Wilson, is an innovation that is more commonly used in commercial construction. To use it in a home, he says, is very innovative. The home’s walls and ceiling are so well insulated that there won’t be any need for forced air heating and cooling.

They were also able to salvage much of the lumber from the original house that was on the property to use in the construction and as decoration. In the landscape, permeable pavers will be used on the driveway and a drought resistant landscape is planned.

A third-party consultant or “rater” has been hired to ensure the standards for certification are met in the areas of sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality. A project must satisfy all prerequisites and earn a minimum number of points to be certified at any of the levels.

“We want to be as close to net zero as possible,” says Josh. “The house represents getting what you want in a home, with a little forethought as to environmentally friendly products.” Once the home is finished, the owners can apply for the certification, which will be based on the awarding of points for a long checklist of items. The points earned will determine which level it might qualify for—a process that can take a year to complete. The home is scheduled to be finished in December.

Top Left: rendering by Architect Tom Wilson Photo top right: Insulated walls and roofing; Photos middle & bottom: Insulating concrete forms, by Jerry Bowles

18 • Benicia Magazine

B

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Voted Best Funeral Home In Solano County 7 Years In A Row BeniciaMagazine.com • 19

LLLLLLLLLL LLLLLLLLLL

The Union Hotel

By Bob Ecker, Part 2 of 2 Photos by Jerry Bowles

Rookies

Hold on beer lovers, Benicia has more brews on tap. Back in july, we featured four spots to sample specialty and other beers. Here are four more worthy spots to check out.

ROOKIES

321 First Street, 707.746.7665 This fun, boisterous bar, the newest in town, is a big hit with the younger set. It’s a great place to catch a game, watch a fight or rock out with your many new-found buddies. This is a true sports bar with autographed sports memorabilia and 20+ flat screens. Rookies sells plenty of mixed drinks and offers mostly commercial brews, but has a few specialty beers, like Anchor Steam and Kona Longboard, on draft. There’s also a different draft beer featured every Wednesday, 6-9pm during “Pint Night.” They have a good selection of beers in the bottle, too. Hip, clean, well lit and comfortable, Rookies does its thing very well.

THE UNION HOTEL RESTAURANT AND BAR

401 First Street, 707.746.0110 Housed in a building from the 1850’s, the historic Union Hotel is the oldest continually operating hotel in California. It’s a classic old hotel and its dark wooden bar is over 120 years old. Owner Gaby Ovieto keeps his bar in fine shape and really cares about his beer. Visitors who have stopped in for a meal in the past might be surprised to learn that the Union Hotel also serves four pretty fine tap beers, such as the toothsome, medium bodied Black Diamond IPA. Add live music on weekends, a casual vibe and the great Happy Hour deal, Monday through Thursday 5-8pm. The excellent beers cost only $2 per pint! That’s a price hard to beat, anywhere.

20 • Benicia Magazine Food - Travel - Spirits

LUCCA BAR & GRILL

439 First Street, 707.745.3749 Lucca’s Bar, found by a passageway on the right side of the restaurant or through an entrance off of First Street, is an easy-going joint, with black and orange walls and a lively clientele. Known more for its mixed drinks, Lucca also serves up a credible array of draft beers, with the usual suspects, including Sierra Nevada, Stella Artois, Harp, Newcastle, Guinness and Blue Moon. Hoegaarden, the Belgian White, is among the better beers presented by the bottle. It’s a good place to relax, chat and grab a brew before or after dinner. Happy Hour runs 4-7pm Monday-Friday, when all beers are a dollar off.

BOTTOM OF THE FIFTH

498 Military East, 707.745.9949 The last of a dying breed, housed in a former Bordello underneath a Chinese Restaurant, Bottom of the Fifth is still going strong, and in fact will soon be undergoing a major remodel. This honest-to-goodness dive bar, beloved by Benicia’s dockworkers, longshoremen, refinery personnel and other locals provides loyal customers with inexpensive drinks, a regular crowd and spirited, feisty conversation. “This is the only Blue Collar bar left in town,” says local Clint Gomez. “No other spot in town has pool tables.”

The remodel will up the ante for Bottom of the Fifth with five new beers taps and a kitchen. Open daily at 7am, this is a bar full of character, and characters. B

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 21

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3 Judith Judson, 310 Military East Consignment Arsenal, 946F Tyler Street Benicia Historic Arsenal, 940 Tyler Street Sprankle’s Village Deli, 82 Solano Square Luminous Touch, 1350 Hayes Street Bada Bing Salon, 425 Military East Tosch Dental, 18 West K Street Estey Real Estate, 935 First Street Adobe 2nd Chance Thrift Store, 929 First Street Nine O Seven Grill, 907 First Street Benicia Floral and Gifts, 838 First Street Camellia Tea Room, 828 First Street BlueBird Vintage, 800 First Street Benicia Home Improvement, 736 First Street Rellik Tavern, 726 First Street Studio 41, 700 First Street Sandoval’s, 640 First Street Fiber-Frolics, 637 First Street The Steffen Collection Antiques, 627 First Street Lindsay Art Glass, 107 First Street Advanced Mortgage SVF, 615 First Street Chamber of Commerce, 601 First Street Charlie’s Attic, 519 & 523 First Dudikoff Insurance, 159 East D Street Zen Spa, 435 First Street Christina S Fashion Destination, 370 First Street Sailor Jack’s Restaurant, 123 First Street Benicia Main Street, 90 First Street

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Wedding and Event Space Michael Trahan • Interior Design www.michaeltrahan.com 707.748.1080

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Mexican Food 640 First Street • 707.746.7830

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Debra Fallon – Spiritual Healer Luminous-Touch.com 707.751.0300

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To find out more call Dale Thorne, 707.745.4852 or Charles Kibby, 707.746.6054

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By Sue Sumner-Moore Searching for the pastor of Heritage Presbyterian Church? Try looking outside the church.

For the Rev. Beverly White, church is more than just a building or plot of land. Church is serving others, finding ways to help people beyond the church walls. So while she preaches and serves the congregation each week, she also volunteers in the community at large.

This month will find her pulling together the final details for Expanding Experiences, a Liberty High School fundraiser hosted each fall by the Rotary Club of Benicia and Arts Benicia. She and former police chief Jim Trimble founded that event in 2003 and have co-chaired it ever since. They also launched a mentoring program at Liberty, and he convinced her to serve as a voluntary police chaplain. She chaired the local Rotary Club’s community service committee for eight years until this spring, and continues to volunteer with the Every 15 Minutes program at Benicia High School.

“Because I don’t live here, I feel I have to be connected to the community. My husband belongs to Rotary, so I knew it was a good organization and a good way to get connected,” says the Martinez resident. “I’m not doing it to gain new members, but to be a presence of Jesus and to serve others in the community.”

Others in the congregation take a similar approach, she says. “We have church members on the boards for the CAC (Community Action Council) and the library and other organizations in town. We’re not making a big splash about it, but we’re out doing it,” she says. The church also provides land for a community garden and space for AA to meet five times a week, plus works closely with the CAC and Families in Transition.

In addition, church members serve dinner once a month at the weekly free meal program at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.

Beverly, 64, became the pastor at Heritage Presbyterian in 1994. She left banking to enter Fuller Seminary in Pasadena, graduating in 1987.

Her husband is a retired Presbyterian pastor, and they have two grown children and four grandchildren.

EXPANDING EXPERIENCES A benefit for Liberty High School, sponsored by Rotary Club of Benicia and Arts Benicia

When: Wednesday, Sept. 12, 6-8:30pm Where: Tyler & Jackson Streets Tickets: $35 per person; call 707.745.6650 (Heritage Presbyterian Church) What to expect: Wine tasting, finger foods, opportunity drawing, auction of larger items in a tented venue in the historic Benicia Arsenal

24 • Benicia Magazine Interview

Interview with

Beverly White How did you decide to change gears and enter seminary?

I never dreamt I’d be a pastor. I didn’t even think my husband would be a pastor. If I’d known that, I wouldn’t have married him (laughs). …

One day, someone from our church in Whittier said, “Beverly, you need to go to seminary.” A month later, someone from the bank said, “I don’t know why, but I’m supposed to tell you that you’re supposed to go to seminary.” About a month after that, a person from another part of my life said, “I don’t know why, but I’m supposed to tell you that you should go to seminary.”

When you have that kind of experience, you have to listen. So I went to seminary, kicking and screaming.

How did seminary change you?

I went from being Bev to being Beverly, so I guess I grew up there. I realized I had a brain in my head. I was in my late 30s and going back to school with these kids in their 20s. … I realized I had a certain amount of wisdom and experience, that I could put things together. The kids in their 20s could stay up all night and study and remember everything, and I couldn’t do that so I had to put everything together and I could.

What led you to reach out to the wider community?

If you’re part of a church, you have to be out in the community and know people out in the community. I spiritually feed my people, I teach them, I help them discover their gifts and find ways to use those gifts in the community. We are to be Christ’s arms, legs, hands and voice wherever needed in the world. We have an incredible community here with incredible people who are out there helping and having a good time.

It’s who I am. I love doing community service—it energizes me, which is interesting because I’m an introvert so I need time alone.

I love crosswords, love playing this game on my phone, Gardens of Time. I need a certain amount of solitude to do what I do.

Photo courtesy of

Benicia Rotary

How has Expanding Experiences helped Liberty High?

We raise $10,000 to $15,000 a year, and the funds help pay for field trips like trips to museums, the music program, art supplies, motivational speakers and Career Week. …

It’s a great event. We have 20-some wineries from Green Valley, Sonoma, and Napa, and the artists have open studios.

Two weeks before, Allied Waste brings out a Dumpster and the artists can clean up their space and kids from Liberty clean up the area. Businesses donate for an opportunity drawing, and we have a couple of large auction items. Restaurants donate finger foods, and the Liberty kids are waiters and waitresses. It just pulls all parts of the community together.

We usually have 200 to 300 people there, and every year these kids just awe people.

They’re really good kids and they get a bad rap. They have so much going against them.

What do you enjoy doing in your time off?

We like to travel and visit our family, but often my days off are spent doing laundry, doing the grocery shopping. We recently took a day and drove over to Point Reyes, took the dog. I love being outside. We’re hoping to get back to riding bikes.

What’s next for you?

I don’t know. I know I’m not going to become an interim minister. I want to keep learning things. There’s lots of life to explore.

I might go sing in a choir—I do love music.

What message would you like to share with the whole community?

Remember you are a community. It’s not about individuals, and we live in a very individualistic society. We are a community.

Life is hard and if we work together, it helps everyone. B

Featuring over 150 artisans & crafters!

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 25

SOME NOTEWORTHY BRA MOMENTS INCLUDE: 1943: Famous billionaire Howard Hughes designed a cantilevered bra to show off Jane Russell's cleavage in the movie The Outlaw.

1947: Frederick Mellinger, founder of Frederick's of Hollywood, began selling intimate apparel in his Los Angeles stores.

By Christina Strawbridge The brassiere has received a lot of press recently with the discovery of four bras that are believed to be 600 years old. The find made in an Austrian castle surprised fashion historians because it was thought the bra was invented 150 years ago when it replaced the woman's corset. The medieval bras look very much like the modern version with distinct cups and broad straps and a possible back strap.

This "ultra vintage" linen lingerie was not only functional, but decorated with intricate lace and ornamentation.

The bra has gone through an evolution since the 1400's, as wearing one or not has been reflective of women's status, fashion and views of the female body. Women wear bras for lots of reasons. They cover, bind, restrain, push up, separate, enhance, and support. It’s interesting that the basic bra has not changed much since Luman L. Chapman patented the modern version in 1863 as a corset substitute. Cup sizing started in 1928 by husband and wife duo William and Ida Rosenthal, who later created the A to D system that remains the industry standard used today.

Studies show that 80% of women wear the wrong bra size, which creates bad form in how clothing fits as well as possible spine and chest discomfort. I was in my 50's before I was properly fitted, and was appalled by the difference in the new size, but happy with the right fit.

1949: Maidenform introduced its famous "I dreamed" advertising campaign that Advertising Age named No. 28 of the top 100 most memorable of the 20th century.

Tag lines included, 'I was an Eskimo in my Maidenform bra’ and 'I dreamed I had the world on a string in my Maidenform bra.’

1959: Lycra as a contributing fabric was introduced by Maidenform, which gave the bras movement and comfort.

1968: A pivotal moment in pop culture—the women's lib movement occurred during the Miss America beauty pageant when 400 women organized a bra burning demonstration outside the Atlantic City Convention Hall.

1977: The sports bra was created by Lisa Lindahl and Polly Smith, who sewed two jockstraps together and named it the Jogbra.

1990s: The bra industry focused on cleavage by utilizing water, air and silicone pads. Improvements in these developments take us into the 21st century with breast management and enhancement.

In 2012, does a woman wear a bra like a security blanket?

Recently, I came down with Shingles that attacked my waist and bra line. For 6 weeks, I had to go braless, which proved to be challenging since the need for a bra has changed with several milestone birthdays. Gone are the braless 1960's, 70's and 80's when I wore tube tops, halters and strapless clothing. Now I feel nearly naked without the proper undergarments. During my recovery, I ended up wearing loose fitting tops made of lightweight fabrics that were both camouflaging and comforting next to the burning skin.

I have recovered from this fashion-altering virus, and realize that a bra is much more than a social statement, but a genetic need for women dating back 600 years. B

M A R K YO U R CA L E N DA R S

A community event benefitting Liberty High School

Expanding Experiences 9th Annual

Open Studio & Wine Tasting Wednesday, September 12, 6-8:30pm Tyler and Jackson Streets in the Historic Arsenal SPONSORED BY

Rotary Club of Benicia and Arts Benicia

For tickets call 707.745.6650

26 • Benicia Magazine Fashionista

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 27

September Calendar of Events 9/1-9/30 Capitol & Fischer-Hanlon House

Weekends only 10am-5pm Fischer-Hanlon tours 1st Sunday & 2nd Saturday Tours at 1, 2 and 3pm, other Sundays 10am-3pm 115 West G Street, Benicia, 707.745.3385

9/4 First Tuesdays Investment Club

Long-standing investment club Meets in Benicia first Tuesday each month For more info contact 707.373.1200

9/5-9/26 Toastmaster’s Group

Wed. Evening 7:30-9pm

Learn to speak with confidence in a friendly environment 601 First Street, Suite 100, Benicia Larry Miller 707.745.5694

9/6-9/27

Benicia Certified Farmers Market 4-8pm

Fruit, vegetables, flowers, baked goods, arts & crafts First Street between B & D Streets Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

9/7& 9/21 Ghost Walk with Donna Raymond

& Devin Sisk

Fridays, Main Street Depot 8pm Spooky tales of the paranormal history of Benicia Approx. 2 hours, no children under 10 Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

9/8 Friends of the Library Book Sale 10am-4pm

9/8

Benicia Library basement, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

Benicia Art Walk, Self-guided Tour 3-7pm

Every second Saturday, pick up a map First Street galleries, studios & businesses Pat Ryll 707.495.2940

9/12 Expanding Experiences 6-8:30pm

Open Studios & Wine Tasting Collaboration of the Rotary Club and Arts Benicia Fund raiser for Liberty High School Tyler and Jackson Streets, Benicia For Tickets call: 707.745.6650

9/15 Annual Coastal Cleanup Day 9am-12pm

9/15 Fine Arts and Craft Fair 10am-4pm

9/19 Evening Book Club for Adults 7-8pm

9/20 Community Blood Drive 1-7pm

9/20 League of Women Voters 7-9pm

9/22 Annual Benefit Art Auction 6pm

9/23 Freedom is a Hard Bought Thing Reception 1pm

Bring gloves, bag or bucket, water bottle Register to participate in Benicia Contact Sue Alfeld 707.980.1895 or email: watereducation@att.net

Fine arts, gifts, home & garden, décor & jewelry Clothing, furniture, photography, pottery and more First Street, between G & B Streets, Benicia 707.745.2120 Library Doña Benicia Room Benicia Library, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

Donors must be in good health, 17+ yrs, over 110 lbs First Baptist Church, 1055 Southampton Road Speaker regarding the Tax Initiative Camellia Tea Room, 828 First Street, Benicia Lwvbenicia.org

Features works by local and regional artists Both a silent and live auction to benefit Arts Benicia Benicia Clock Tower, 1189 Washington Street Artsbenicia.org 707.747.0131

The history of African Americans coming to California Features biographies of African Americans in Benicia Benicia Historical Museum, 2060 Camel Road Beniciahistoricalmuseum.org 707.745.5435

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28 • Benicia Magazine Calendar

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Jazz Sax Player, Band Leader

Featured Musician

Bryan Girard

Born

San Francisco Resides in

Vallejo, CA

By Rhonda Lucile Hicks Photo by SN Jacobson How old were you when you began playing saxophone? I started playing clarinet in the fifth grade band program and took up the saxophone in eighth grade.

Why jazz? It speaks to me. It is what I call a high art form—infinitely challenging. You can study and practice jazz for a lifetime and still feel like a beginner. I love it far more than any other musical genre.

What brought you to Vallejo? My wife.

We met my sophomore year of high school.

She was a freshman and we were both in the band. We went steady for about six months until I broke it off. We didn’t see each other for 37 years! We reconnected through a mutual high school friend.

What's the first music you remember hearing? It might be the opera BorisGodunov by Mussorgsky. My father was from Russia and he would play music by Russian composers.

Live Music Ongoing Kinder’s

Live Kinder’s Live music every Thursday 6pm-9pm kindersbbq.com 707.745.4453

The Rellik Tavern

Live music every Friday & Saturday therelliktavern.com 707.746.1137

Upstairs at the Café

Live music Thursday, Friday & Saturday Jazz Sunday afternoon firststreetcafe.com 707.745.1400

Gracie’s Barbeque, Vallejo

Live music every Friday 6:30pm-9pm gracies.net 707.552.2254

Sardine Can, Vallejo

Favorite Food

Japanese food Favorite Book

The Spinoza Problem

Relationship Status/Children

Married to Rosemarie, 2 grown stepchildren When did you start writing your own songs? I don’t know of any jazz musician that doesn’t write. I’ve been writing for decades, but I don’t consider myself a composer. Jazz is improvisation and composition follows naturally because of the nature of the art.

What was your best moment on stage?

Over the years, I’ve come home glowing.

Those were times where I feel I exceeded myself. It’s all about musical growth. And it’s also when the band played together and communicated musically.

What do you in your spare time? I exercise pretty religiously. I walk and go to the gym. My wife and I spend a lot of time together. We’re a very close couple. We spend a lot of time in the city—going to see jazz, opera, a park, the museum. I read a lot and study French.

Where can we see you perform? Every Sunday at Upstairs at First Street Café, The Sardine Can, Gracie’s Barbeque, The Empress Theatre and I’ll be at the Piedmont Piano Company in Oakland September 21. B

Winterhawk Winery, Fairfield Live Music and dancing Saturdays 2pm-5pm winterhawkwinery.com, 707.428.6977

Vinnie’s Bar & Grill, Concord All Pro Blues Jam 1st & 2nd Sundays vinniesbar.com 925.685.9515

Special Events Soulblue

The Jazz School, Berkeley Saturday, September 1, 8pm jazzschool.org

Bela Fleck with Marcus Roberts Trio

Napa Valley Opera House, Napa Tuesday, September 4, 8pm nvoh.org

Laurence Juber

Live jazz every Sunday 5pm-8pm sardinecan.net 707.553.9492

142 Throckmorton Thursday, September 6, 8pm 142throckmortontheatre.com

Sticky Rice Chinese Bistro & Bar Fairfield

Robert Cray

Live Music every Saturday stickyricebistro.com 707.863.7500

30 • Benicia Magazine Listening

Uptown Theatre, Napa Saturday, September 8, 8pm uptowntheatrenapa.com

Read the expanded interview online at beniciamagazine.com.

Close to You: Tribute to the Carpenters El Campanil Theatre, Antioch Saturday, September 15, 8pm elcampaniltheatre.com

Mark Hummel’s Blues Harp Blowout

Firehouse Arts, Pleasanton Sunday, September 16, 8pm firehousearts.org

Poets and Prayers: Turtle Island String Quartet Yoshi’s, San Francisco Tuesday, September 18, 8pm yoshis.com

Wednesday Night Ramble Empress Theatre, Vallejo Wednesday, September 19, 7pm empresstheatre.org

Rhythm Bugs Freight & Salvage, Berkeley Thursday, September 20, 8pm thefreight.org

Glen Pearson Trio

57th Street Gallery, Oakland Friday, September 21, 8:30pm 57thstreetgallery.com

The Whiskey Brothers Armando’s, Martinez Saturday, September 22, 8pm armandosmartinez.com

Elvis Costello, solo Jackson Hall

Mondavi Center for Performing Arts, Davis Friday, September 28, 8pm mondaviarts.org

Squid Inc

Bay Terrace Theatre, Vallejo Sunday, September 30, 3pm vallejosymphony.org

Alison Krauss & the Union Station Weill Hall, Green Music Center Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park Sunday, September 30, 7pm gmc.sonoma.edu

Sonny Rollins

Davies Symphony Hall, San Francisco Sunday, September 30, 8pm sfjazz.org

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Art Bikes Cafés Benicia has what You are Looking For Clothing Coffee shops Flowers Framing Gifts Home furnishings Jewelry Kid's toys Music Pottery Restaurants Vintage Ice Cream Shops

From A to Z,

VOICES OF EVE ‘N ANGELS

OPEN ENROLLMENT NO AUDITIONS Boys and girls ages 6 to 18 ONLY THE DESIRE TO SING IS NEEDED

Rehearsals begin Tuesday Sept. 11th 3:30pm First Baptist Church 1055 Southampton Rd Benicia Fun Jefferson Award Winning Director Challenging Professional Self-Esteem Building Multi-ling ual Nurturing Multi Cultural

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