Benicia Magazine April 2017

PART 2: A FIRST STREET PRIMER, BLOCK BY BLOCK BIG BUCKS FLOW INTO LIBRARY FROM VOLUNTEER-RUN BOOK SALES

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Benefiting Benicia Community Action Council and Senior Meals Program.

A I C I N E B IN A buffet luncheon and fashion show starring local “celebrities”

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26, 2017 Administrative Professional Day 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM

Benicia Clock Tower, 1189 Washington Street Featuring fashions from

Fashion Destination

Tickets $40.00 Available at Christina S Fashion Destination For further information contact Michele Hughes 707-373-7571

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Benicia

Public Service Announcement

First Street Road Improvements The City of Benicia Public Works Department will continue to make improvements for safety, pavement preservationand aesthetics on First Street in April.

In addition to repairing areas of failed pavement, crack sealing & constructing new ADA compliant curb ramps in March, the road will be resurfaced and re-striped. There will be traffic control and no parking on First Street during the day or two of microsurfacing operations and striping.

All work is slated for completion before April 21, weather permitting.

Businesses will be open and there is parking on side streets.

Please observe the construction signs and exercise caution while visiting during the construction.

Benicia

BeniciaM

Celebrating our 12th Year

Benicia

Benicia

magazine

Be

Benicia

Editor magazine Jeanne Steinmann Graphic Design Margaret Bowles

Benicia Web Specialist Yarrow Sweningsen

magazine

Contributors Lois Requist Adriene Rockwell Sarah Rohrs Beth Steinmann Christina Strawbridge Sue Sumner-Moore

Be

Photographers Jerry Bowles Lisa Duncan

Family-friendly & locally owned, just steps from the waterfront!

Advertising sales Jeanne Steinmann 707.853.5226 adsales@beniciamagazine.com Advertising deadlines New ads: the 5th of the month prior to the issue month Ad changes: 6 weeks prior to the issue month

Indoor & Outdoor Dining Authentic Sports Memorabilia 33 TV’s showing all local & major sporting events MLB, NBA, NFL, UFC & more 32 beers on tap from breweries all over California and beyond Specialty cocktails and wine

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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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24th Annual BENICIA CLASSIC CAR SHOW April 30, 9am—3pm Historic Downtown Benicia

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Help us reach $1,000,000

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APRIL

VOLUME 12 ISSUE 6

FEATURES

16

Rediscovering First Street, Part 2

18

Benicia Classic Car Show & others around the Bay evoke romance and nostalgia

20 15

26

Annual fun run is a win-win for runners and Benicia schools

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 From the Editor 12 Bio Cathy Wright, drama teacher at Benicia Middle School

13 Currents Benicia students offer up big drama and laughs at mystery dinner theater (13) Mike Kendall’s artwork featured at Arts Benicia Gallery (14) Artist Open Studios returns for 30th year (15) Friends of the Benicia Library are a whisper away from raising $1 million (19) After long planning, Benicia’s “Carquinez Village” launches this month (23)

24 Interview

Benicia native Brianna Kleinschmidt on her goals for BHS

18

26 Trends

Six Benicia women make their own splash at the Oscars

28 Calendar of Events

The best events in Benicia and around the Bay

Cover photo: Benicia owned 1960 MGA, by Jerry Bowles Top left, artist Susan Mitchell in her studio, by Peg Jackson; right, Benicia women attend the 2017 Oscars, courtesy

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FROM THE EDITOR

April 2017 Right out of the gate, April is bursting with events and other activities around town. Benicia’s volunteer contingent is busy with preparations for a variety of things that add to our town’s special appeal.

The BHS Band Boosters host their 24th annual Benicia Classic Car show, with 400 classic vehicles near the waterfront at the First Street Green. The Benicia Friends of the Library are very close to seeing the fruits of their long labors bring their tally up to $1 million to fund library programs. The Benicia Education Foundation hosts its 10th anniversary of the Benicia Run for Education, also along downtown’s waterfront. The Carquinez Village, a support and social network for seniors, launches this month. And the folks at Arts Benicia are gearing up for their annual Open Studios weekend—this one celebrates their 30th year bringing thousands of art lovers, art buyers and those who simply enjoy a great art event into town. Read more about these items, and the many other features in this issue.

Lisa Duncan Photography

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

Speaking of a good cause, don’t miss the annual Benicia Fashion Show Luncheon at the Clock Tower, April 26, a fundraiser benefiting the Benicia Community Action Council and Senior Meals Program. The Fashion Show is presented by Christina Strawbridge, owner of downtown’s Christina S, and she certainly knows how to put on a show. Past themes have included everything from The Great Gatsby to Star Wars; this month’s event will channel the 2017 Oscars (Christina and five of her friends attended this year’s ceremonies—see more in Trends). Aside from the latest fashions, perhaps the best part of the show is that Benicia’s prominent politicians, city workers, business owners and other local luminaries strut their stuff on a professional runway, clearly having a great time. For women AND men, it’s a fun event with a buffet luncheon catered by a local eatery. On 4/26, that’s where I’ll be, enjoying the exhilarating vibe of the show. See the calendar for additional details.

Subscribe! Call 707.853.5226 or go to

beniciamagazine.com 10 • Benicia Magazine

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BIO

Cathy Wright BMS drama Teacher "Role-playing and problem solving are some of the most important building blocks in a strong theater class.”

By Adriene Rockwell Lisa Duncan Photography From a very young age, Cathy Wright was drawn to the dramatic arts, and would get lost in an imaginary world. Her mom was a teacher at the California School for the Blind, and her father was a high school math teacher in Fremont. As the children of teachers, she and her two brothers were always trying new things.

“When I was three, my parents put me in soccer and I just stood there and sang,” said Cathy. “Then they put me in swimming, and I was chubby so I just bobbed around. But then they put me in drama and I knew right away that’s where I belonged.”

Today she’s a musical theater enthusiast, having seen hundreds of productions. When pressed to choose a favorite, she recalled a time in high school when she says she “lived for” drama and choir. In her senior year, she landed the lead role in Hello Dolly, and it changed her life. So this year, for her 50th birthday, she’s got tickets to see Bette Midler in Hello Dolly on Broadway. “It’s like reading a really good book,” she says. “I get totally lost in musical theater, and in the beauty of the stories.”

It was in middle school that she found her life calling.

“I had a drama teacher who forever changed the way I looked at the world,” she shared. “Her name was Princess and she was energetic, smart and funny. I remember leaving her class with the feeling that I could conquer the world.” She knew then that she would someday become a middle school drama teacher.

In 1992, with a degree in English, she landed her dream job at Benicia Middle School as a part-time drama teacher. She taught English and Journalism for a while too, but with her passion and energy, the drama department quickly grew. Today, she teaches all three grades, including the advanced drama classes for grades seven and eight. She also integrates special needs students into her programs.

There are many techniques, but gibberish is one of her favorites to teach. For example, students might imagine someone has taken their chair, and they have to explain in gibberish that they need their chair back. Students learn how to tell a whole story without speaking English.

Instead, they find creative ways to use vocal variances, volume, facial expression and pantomime to communicate their needs, and to resolve conflict.

“At the center of drama is communication. The world is becoming more team-oriented, and drama is an important part of preparing students for future success. Drama also helps kids develop tolerance and empathy. Role-playing and problem solving are some of the most important building blocks in a strong theater class.”

Cathy is part of a movement to unify the drama programs in the district, share resources and strengthen theater arts learning for all ages.

However, she’s not shy about saying middle school students will always be her favorite.

“I love the sense of humor in middle schoolers. They come up with the greatest lines. We laugh all day long,” she smiles.

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C URRE N TS

Benicia Student Performers Play it Forward in Virgil’s Wedding Courtesy Photos

By Adriene Rockwell For the first time, drama students from all Benicia schools are performing together for the hilarious dinner theater production of Virgil’s Wedding, a comical farce that will make you feel like you’re an invited guest at a friend’s big, fat Greek wedding.

The romantic comedy will take place in the southern town of Lickskillit, USA, otherwise known as Benicia Middle School (BMS). (Hint: the production is similar to the popular Broadway comedy Tony n’ Tina's Wedding). The wedding feast, served by young actors, will include a three course southern meal of pulled pork or fried chicken, smoky mac n’ cheese, apple slaw, squash, black-eyed peas, cornbread with honey butter and sweet tea and peach-berry cobbler for dessert. Guests will enjoy an old-fashioned barn dance, interactive games, and more.

But it’s more than just a good time. The collaborative production marks a movement to unite all school drama departments, and raise support and awareness for theater arts education. Funds from this year’s production will help replace the middle school drama department’s long broken sound system and stage lights. “The production will not only showcase young artists, but they get to do something with their art that is helpful to the community,” says Nikki Tillotson, the production’s director. “They are playing it forward.”

Top performers from Benicia High School’s (BHS) improv team, BMS’s drama program, and the afterschool drama clubs at all four elementary schools will audition for their parts. While the advanced students will take the leading roles, elementary school actors will wait on tables and be planted in the audience.

“When all age groups work together in an ensemble, everyone learns from each other. The older actors learn patience; it humbles them.

They learn that no one is more important, and if the other actors look good, they all look good,” says Nikki. “These are skills that help at work, in marriage, and in all relationships.”

Nikki is a BHS drama department alumni with certificates What: Virgil’s Wedding in drama from Solano Community College and the esteemed Actors Conservatory Theater (ACT) in San Francisco.

Who: Benicia Unified Performers Passionate about the benefits of theater arts for children, Nikki Where: Benicia Middle School started an ensemble in her backyard when her daughter was in kindergarten. In 2008, she opened Flying Monkey Theatre When: May 5 & 6 at 6pm, Arts, and now directs the after school drama clubs at all four May 7 at 2pm elementary schools. She’s also the master painter for the high school drama department, and this year she launched the first flyingmonkeytheatrearts.com ever after school middle school drama club.

Nathan Day, the new director of the drama department at BHS, studied with Nikki at Solano Community College and sees the growing collaboration as the perfect pathway to his more advanced drama studies. “The support I have behind me from Nikki and Cathy and their programs allows me to challenge my students in ways that don't exist elsewhere, ” he says.

Cathy Wright has been teaching drama at the middle school since 1992, and believes the collaboration makes sense for the students, building their communication skills and confidence in a cohesive way, and creating a theaterfriendly culture in our district.

In a way, Virgil’s Wedding celebrates the marriage of these three drama teachers and their aligned belief that theater arts education enriches all of our lives.

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By Sarah Rohrs As part of its 30th year commemoration, Arts Benicia is paying tribute to an artist who helped build the gallery, literally. When the community arts organization opened its doors in the Lower Arsenal, Mike Kendall was the first exhibitor, along with Larry Morace. More than that, he helped build the gallery walls so that he and countless others could show their work. Since then, he’s been an integral part of the art scene and community.

The one-man show titled Off The Wall will feature Kendall’s paintings, sculptures, relief work and perhaps a multi-media installation. During Benicia Artist Open Studios, the retrospective will replace Arts Benicia’s usual preview highlighting a selection of participating artists’ work. Inspired

by Hieronymus Bosch and surreal artists, Kendall’s work is often surprising, and ranges from mixed media metal sculptures to large-scale paintings. “I enjoy creating works that demand the viewer’s attention through bold statements, contradiction, illusion or moving behind the visual senses,” Kendall said in a prepared statement. Mary Shaw, Arts Benicia exhibitions and program manager, said Kendall’s pieces are often a lot of fun, too.

Off The Wall will give Kendall a chance to show a larger range of his work all in one place. He often opens his studio to accommodate other artists during Open Studios and, as a result, his own work gets packed away, she said. One big reason for the show is to give Kendall a big thank you for all he does for Arts Benicia and other artists. “Mike gives so much to this community and he’s been around so long. He does much to support the artist community. He organizes a smaller open studios event in December, and each time, he opens up his own studio for other artists. He’s an anchor for us. We just want to honor that,” Shaw said.

Since the early 1990s, Kendall has lived and worked in the Arsenal area. He first had a space in the former Yuba Manufacturing complex before the live/work spaces in the Tyler Street area became available. He often finds and provides recycled materials for artists, and has maintained a popular Benicia Artist Networking Group (BANG) list, a networking site that highlights his own and other artists’ work along with calls for artists’ work and other important information. His studio is on Jackson Street.

Photo by Michael Van Auken

A Tribute to Long-time Artist and Advocate for the Arts

Mike Kendall: Off The Wall, a retrospective show featuring paintings, sculpture and mixed media work of the Benicia artist.

Arts Benicia Gallery, 4/8-5/7 991 Tyler St. #114, Benicia Arsenal Gallery hours: 12-5pm weekly Wed through Sun Opening Reception: 6-8pm, Sat, 4/8 Family Art Day: 1-3pm, Sun, 4/30 Artists Open Studios: May 6-7, 10am-5pm

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Connecting Art and Community at Annual Event

By Sarah Rohrs Photos by Peg Jackson Benicia has no shortage of artists, who draw people to town and add to the community’s vibrancy. The annual Arts Benicia Artist Open Studios gives people a chance to be part of the scene, to enter the artists’ creative spaces and talk to them in their own environments. Now in its 23rd year, this year’s event takes place May 6-7.

Arts Benicia is ground zero, organizing the popular event that draws an estimated 5,000 from around the Bay Area. “This is our big advocacy time for arts in the community,” said Mary Shaw, Arts Benicia exhibitions and programs manager. “We don’t get anything out of this. It’s not to make money. It’s to provide marketing for our community, to help with tourism and to help artists make contact with people and sell their work.”

Scores of artists open their doors in the Lower Arsenal, and many are within walking distance of the Arts Benicia Gallery. On First Street, visitors will find glass blowing studios, art venues and galleries, such as Gallerie Renee Marie, The Rellik, Gallery 621, Benicia Plein Gallery, Once Upon a Canvas and Lindsay Art Glass, among others. Artists in other parts of town may open their doors, as well.

This year’s Open Studios is special, as Arts Benicia is celebrating its 30th year. A retrospective on the art of Mike Kendall will occupy the gallery space. Kendall does sculptures, paintings, relief work and installations.

He has dedicated space and time to other artists and promotes Benicia’s artist community, Shaw said. “He just gives so much.” Called Off The Wall, Kendall’s show will occupy the gallery April 8-May 7.

This year, Arts Benicia will not stage its usual Open Studios Preview show, consisting of a sample of participating artists’ work. Instead, a full color catalogue with a map and image for each artist will be offered. The weekend’s festivities are all part of the effort to help artists and art lovers connect. “How wonderful it is to go into artists’ studios, see their work and talk to them. It can lead to lots of other things. People might take a class or buy a piece of work. It’s the start of a relationship,” Shaw said.

OPEN STUDIOS MAY 6-7 Benicia Artists Open Studios—Free admission Scores of Benicia artists open their doors to the public May 6-7, 10am to 5pm both days Visitors should start at the Arts Benicia Gallery in the Lower Arsenal at 991 Tyler St. #114 to grab a map and catalogue of participating artists SolTrans will operate a shuttle both days, transporting visitors between the Lower Arsenal and First Street Photos of Artists in their studios, top to bottom: Jeffrey Tover, Sharon Payne Bolton, Mike Kendall, Chris Meade

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illustration by margaret bowles

Making Sense of First Street Part 2 in a Series

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An ever-changing landscape, First Street is a microcosm of the eclectic style, creativity and interesting occupations that are expressive of our community. Given the street’s mile-long shopping corridor, we are taking the guesswork out of which businesses are where, and what each block offers visitors.

Last month, we started at the waterfront and highlighted the businesses from A Street to C Street. Our second in a series of articles detailing downtown Benicia, in this issue we focus on C Street to D Streets.

This block of downtown has the advantage of being near the waterfront, where many of the town’s festivals are held and parades begin. Three large buildings hold a mix of businesses, including offices, boutiques, bars and eateries. The Treasury Commons building on the east side of the street features a lively plaza that invites visitors to meander through its shops, or sit on a bench under the trees and people-watch. Upstairs, professional offices overlook the vibrant energy below. During the farmers market, April-October, this block is ground zero.

On the southeast corner is Luxe Hair Design, an upscale salon offering a full array of hair care services. Along with Luxe, The Chill, a treasure of a wine bar, and Christina S (women’s clothing and accessories outfitting Benicia’s women in a chic aesthetic), have anchored the plaza for over 12 years. In the middle of the plaza, Java Point Café serves up great food and a casual meeting point for locals for breakfast and lunch.

Although Benicia Magazine is also in its twelfth year, it’s our second year on the plaza, along with Urban Notions Gift Store,

Rookies Sports Bar and Grill

a diminutive shop carrying home and paper goods and gifts for the garden. Literatus Designs is the newcomer on the plaza, featuring silk clothing for women, designed by the owner and made in California. On the north end of of the plaza is RPM Mortgage, specializing in mortgage loans and refinancing.

On the west side in the historic Von Pfister building, Rookies Sports Bar and Grill inhabits the entire street level space. The ultimate sports bar, Rookies offers really good pub grub and more for lunch and dinner, and boasts over 32 beers on tap.

Upstairs, you’ll find GMAC insurance and Solano Smile Pediatric Dentistry, a state-of-the-art orthodontic practice for children of all ages. There’s customer parking for the Von Pfister building and the Treasury Commons in addition to street parking.

Just north of Rookies, another large edifice contains several interesting businesses: Courtyard Customs prints “almost anything on almost anything” and does watch repair and battery replacement. More than just a shave, Dave’s Barber Shop and Shaving Parlor is a connection to the past, where men swap community news and gossip while being pampered. Anchoring the northern end of the building, Kinders Meats is another popular lunch option with tantalizing bbq sandwiches and hot plates. Some of the upstairs tenants are still regrouping from a building fire, which required extensive repairs. The nearest public restrooms and water fountain are available in the yellow building on the Spit. Below is a complete list of businesses on this block, courtesy Benicia Main Street.

321 First Street

rookiesbenicia.com

Dave’s Barber Shop & Shaving Parlor 333-C First Street

facebook.com/ DavesBarberShopandShavingParlor

Kinder’s Meats-Deli-BBQ

333 First Street

kindersmeats.com/benicia_ca.php

Courtyard Customs

333 First Street #5

707.746.7652

Luxe Hair Color & Design

360 First Street

facebook.com, Luxe Hair Color & Design

The Chill, a Wine & Beer Bar

362 First Street

facebook.com/TheChillWine

Heritage Pantry & Spice

364 First Street

heritagepantryandspice.com

Java Point Café

366 First Street

facebook, Java Point Cafe

Christina S

370 First Street

Christinasbenicia.com

Urban Notions Gift Store

372 First Street

facebook.com/urbannotions

RPM Mortgage

376 First Street

707.361.5500

R.A. Storelee insurance

321 First Street

800.982.6330

Solano Smile

321 First St, Ste #203

707.748.0500

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Classic Cars

By Sarah Rohrs Capturing their fascinating history, engineering and the nostalgic memories they evoke, classic cars can be an exciting, yet consuming hobby. From the exotic and European to classics from the USA, collecting and restoring these icons of a bygone era is surging, ushered in with the baby boomer generation.

According to Car and Driver, car collecting traces its roots to the Great Depression, when enthusiasts and collectors found that classic cars represented a diminishing era of automotive craftsmanship. Auto clubs sprang up in response, along with classic car shows across the country.

Benicians can easily take advantage of classic car shows in the area, and, in addition to admiring the meticulously restored specimens, learn from community enthusiasts and club members who frequent them. In Danville, the Blackhawk Automotive Museum has in its collection over 40 pristine classics from Italy, France, England and the U.S, and offers a “Cars and Coffee” event the first Sunday of each month at 8am. The Benicia Veterans Hall was the site last year of the Rob Moglie Car & Bike Show, and the Solano County Fairgrounds hosted the seventh annual NorCal Knockout for Bay Area car clubs. Suisun also welcomes classic cars with its annual Biggest Little Car Show, in May. For locals and visitors, the Benicia waterfront offers the ultimate venue for a classic car show, with its backdrop of blue against the green hills across the Carquinez Strait.

The grassy First Street Green, adjacent to the beauty of the Suisun Marsh, perfectly sets off a restored Chevy or Ford in all its historic glory. It’s in this setting that the annual Benicia Classic Car Show draws 400 car enthusiasts to show off their passion for vintage cars and trucks to the admiration of the throngs who come to enjoy the meticulously restored cars, trucks and tractors. A fundraiser for the Benicia High School band program, this year’s Sunday, April 30 affair promises to deliver a day of fun and community pride, not to mention all the cool sets of wheels. “It’s a beautiful day on the green with all the cars,” said Teresa Washburn, Panther Band Booster, and classic car show committee chairwoman.

Now in its 24th year, the Benicia show started with a Chevrolet that former BHS Band Director Dalt Williams bought brand new

in 1955. Years later, after restoring the car, he and his wife went to car shows, giving him the idea for a fundraiser. He worked with car enthusiasts and boosters to bring that about. The first Benicia Classic Car Show took place in 1994 on the BHS football field with 300 cars, including his own Chevy. “I’m retired now but I still go to the car show and I love it. I know the First Street merchants love it. It’s good for the band and good for Benicia, too,” he said. Car lovers form a friendly community bonded by their love of classic vehicles, with those bonds often leading to lasting friendships. The Benicia show draws hot rods and street rods, muscle cars and vehicles from all the decades back to the 1920s. Car owners come from Benicia, Vallejo, Fairfield, Glen Ellen, Antioch, Los Altos, Sacramento and other locales.

Vehicles must be at least vintage 1976 or older to enter the competition, which consists of show participants voting for their favorite vehicles among different categories. Vehicles fill up the First Street green, the pier and surrounding areas. Owners begin parking at 7am. Vehicle owners pay entrance fees, but visitors can check out them out for free. Several car clubs get in on the action, including Boyz Under The Hood, which brings 40 to 50 vehicles annually. “People like the downtown car show and it’s on the waterfront. It’s a nice show,” said club president Jeff Singley, adding that the classic car culture is down-home and family-friendly. “People care about each other a lot. It’s a chance to sit around and talk.” Club members are pleased the Benicia show raises money for community groups.

BHS band members will stroll around playing their instruments, along with parent volunteers, who form the heart of the boosters. The fundraiser pays for uniforms, instruments, transportation to events, music education, and other programs.

Washburn said they are a dedicated bunch, and being in band and boosters tends to run in the family. “I was in band and my mom was a booster and my daughter is now in band,” she said.

Further, many parents remain active long after their kids have graduated. Band director Patrick Martin and booster president Erin Biber said the car show is a big hit for the band programs, the kids and the town. The event takes place rain or shine, Sunday, April 30, 2017, 9am-3pm.

18 • Benicia Magazine

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By Sarah Rohrs The Friends of the Benicia Public Library monthly book sales speak volumes about the town’s support of its library.

So many volumes in fact that the group is closing in on the $1 million mark. Just to be clear, that is $1 million raised through the sale of 50-cent paperbacks, $1 hardbacks, and $5 bags of books over the last 23 years. “It’s quite an amazing thing,” said Carole Nail, Friends president and library board trustee. The hope is to reach the milestone by June. Book lovers and library supporters can help by shopping at a book sale or by buying a membership.

Each dollar goes to the library to be spent at the discretion of the library director, Nail said. In recent years, nearly $70,000 raised annually has paid for children’s programs, concerts, summer reading programs, books, equipment and other items.

By contrast, some $13,115 was raised in 1994 when regular monthly sales began in the new library, Nail said. The large basement is key to the success. The sales area resembles a large bookstore with aisles, shelves and long tables for nonfiction, children’s and teen books. The fiction area is divided into literature, mystery, science fiction and other categories.

The premium section features newer books and cost more.

Throughout the year, 35 volunteers sort and shelve, and are on hand during the sales. If a volunteer recognizes something extra special in a donation, that book may be sold online for a larger price, said Nail. More than 300 people are Friends’ members and have first crack at the selection Thursday evening before the sale.

Once the $1 million mark is reached, Nail said the library will have a reception to thank the volunteers. Special kudos will go to Ron Arrants, chair of the book sales committee since 1996. “Without him there would be no book sale,” she said.

Other volunteers are also vital, as are the people who donate books and those who come to shop. “The whole thing is a very collaborative, synergistic event. It’s a huge collaboration,” she said.

Monthly book sales take place 10am - 4pm, April 8, May 13 and June 10, 10am. Memberships can be purchased during the sales or at the members-only sales, Thursday evenings before the public sales. Books can be donated during regular library hours, or can be purchased during monthly book sales. For more details, go to benicialibrary.org/friends.

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A Winning Strategy for Benicia’s Run for Education

By Sarah Rohrs Courtesy photos The annual Benicia Run for Education is much more than a race. Yes, the event draws out a large number of serious runners who compete for prizes. But it also allows people to support local schools, and bring them together in strong community spirit. This year, all are welcome to participate the morning of Sunday, April 23, regardless of running prowess, speed, abilities or disabilities. Participants assemble at the First Street Green at 8am, and complete a beautiful race course on the west side of downtown. Race Director Lisa Koenen said organizers pray for a clear day but are telling runners and walkers to come if it’s wet; the race takes place rain or shine.

A fundraiser hosted by the Benicia Education Foundation, the run draws more than 1,200 people and is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Both the 5K and the 10K courses are professionally chip-timed and certified by the USATF (USA Track & Field) so that runners can qualify for marathons.

Those with no running skills can run or walk in the 5K, while the 10K is for runners only. After the morning’s activities, some Benicia businesses will have special offers to entice runners into their establishments. Race day volunteers are still needed. To learn more about how to participate in the run, or to volunteer go to beniciarunforeducation.org.

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Ten Reasons the Benicia Run for Education is a Win for All The race has strong community spirit and helps local schools.

Entrance fees and sponsors help pay for $500 mini grants for each Benicia public school.

Kids 12 and under can take part in the Kids Fun Run along the Benicia Marina.

The race route takes participants along the waterfront, past historic homes and into the Benicia State Recreation Area.

Non-runners are welcome to walk or stroll, have fun and meet their neighbors.

Participants can get their groove on in a pre-race warm-up with Benicia Jazzercise.

Strollers, leashed pets and those in wheelchairs are welcome to join in.

Funds raised help prepare Benicia students for college or careers and also pay for science, math and technology programs in elementary schools.

After the race, participants are encouraged to make Benicia a day trip with visits to cafĂŠs, museums and parks.

In its tenth year, this year’s run is expected to raise upwards of $40,000.

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Benicia’s Carquinez Village Launches this Month

By Lois Requist With the April 3 launch of Carquinez Village, Benicia area seniors will have a new, significant organization offering members connection, support and inspiration. Extending the “village” movement that started fifteen years ago in Boston and spread across the country, Carquinez Village provides a way for seniors to connect with others and their community by receiving support when they need it, obtaining referrals and information, interacting socially, and taking educational courses. All these things will enable participating seniors to lead more positive and informed lives.

Through making a difference in individuals’ lives, the launch of Carquinez Village makes Benicia an “age-friendly” city, and is cause for citywide celebration!

Many have contributed to our development over the last two years. The Benicia Public Library and Heritage Presbyterian Church have offered meeting space, and Hamann Real Estate is a sponsor.

Over thirty volunteers have worked hard, over fifty people have made contributions, and over fifty seniors have committed to becoming members. We’d like to not turn anyone away who wants to be a member of Carquinez Village, so if you’re a senior and can’t afford the membership cost, tell us that. We have some funds available to meet those needs.

Sometimes we hear, “I don’t need the Village services right now. I may in future.” This viewpoint supposes the village is a support system when one is sick or needs assistance. It is that, however, it is much more. Carquinez Village also exists to offer connection and inspiration to seniors. I’ve lived alone since my husband died at 57. I was 54. I needed stimulation and companionship. I wanted to be healthy and productive, to have fun, to learn and experience as much as possible. Now, I’m 78, still healthy and happy.

Having worked the last two years to help make Carquinez Village real, I’ve learned what resources are available in our community. I thought I knew quite a few people here before; I know more now, and they add to my quality of life.

You’d be surprised how many seniors name “having fun” as a priority. Being involved, learning new things and getting to know new people is inspiring.

Certainly, age can bring illness or physical problems, but isolation and loneliness are issues for many seniors. Carquinez Village members won’t be alone. They’ll be surrounded by caring friends and volunteers.

The volunteers of Carquinez Village will provide rides, friendly phone calls, and help with using a smart phone among many other services. We will offer the help you need when you need it. For other needs, like a regular gardener or house cleaner, we will have information about what is available in the community and a list of preferred providers—local people whom we can recommend. Plus, we will offer a variety of programs from potlucks to parties to classes. There will be something for everyone; the more you participate, the richer your experience will be!

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The public is invited to a launch party on Monday, April 3, 1:30-3pm at Carter’s Biz Cafés at the Commanding Officer’s Quarters, 1 Commandant Lane in Benicia. For more information, visit carquinezvillage.org or call 707.297.2472.

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INTERVIEW WITH

Brianna Kleinschmidt

By Sue Sumner-Moore, Photo: Lisa Duncan Photography Twenty years ago, Brianna Kleinschmidt graduated from Benicia High School and headed out into the world. She was looking for something different, some new experiences. She never anticipated that life would lead her back to Benicia High.

“I definitely didn’t think I’d be back at all,” she says. “I have a great, great group of friends from high school, and they think it’s hilarious that I’m the principal here.”

Her journey took her from UC Santa Barbara to law school, where she learned an important lesson that first year. “I learned I didn’t want to be a lawyer,” she says, laughing.

She left law school and went into catering and event planning. A heart-toheart conversation with a friend prompted her to consider becoming a teacher.

“I have my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in literature, and I’ve always loved it. Also, I employed teenagers in my business, and I loved working with them.

Teaching offered a really unique opportunity to combine those two things,” says Brianna. She taught at Benicia High for three years before becoming vice principal in 2014. Brianna, called Miss K by students, became the principal in March 2016.

She owned a catering and event business, then headed back to school for her teaching credential. She taught at Benicia High for three years before becoming vice principal in 2014. She became the principal in March 2016.

Her leadership skills and community roots made her an excellent candidate, says Charles Young, superintendent of Benicia schools.

“She’s a courageous leader who likes to look at all parts of the program and to recognize and honor what’s going well and then to have robust conversations around how can we continue to get better and what that looks like,” he says. When we are looking for someone to do a job like this, we always ask ourselves, ‘Do they have a big heart for the work?’ She just has a big old heart for the work.”

Brianna’s term as principal began as the school was undergoing big changes.

One committee was studying a new school day schedule, another working on revising graduation requirements. Plus stadium renovations were about to start. All were nearing completion when she met with Benicia Magazine in February.

She is the school’s fifth principal in 11 years. As such, she leads a school with about 1,640 students, a staff of more than 100, and a budget of just under $10 million this year. Her office is decorated with vintage Panther banners, her own high school academic and sports letter, and a photo of her 6-year-old daughter.

Brianna, 37, lives in Benicia on the same street as her parents and brother.

How has the campus changed since you details, and you have to be able to prioritize what you do, how you spend your time. You’re managing a whirlwind of everyday activities and working on bigger graduated in 1997?

Half of it is new. There are a few buildings that don’t projects as well. exist anymore and some new buildings that weren’t there when I was a student. B wing is new. O wing is How did you end up back at Benicia High?

While I was getting my teaching credential, I had my daughter and moved new. H and F are all new for me. The gym expansion happened after I left. So at least half of the campus is back to Benicia because of my family. I did my student teaching here and I couldn’t imagine working anywhere else. different than when I left.

I love working here. I hope to stick around for as long as they’ll have me. I have at least a 10-year goal (to stay at Benicia High).

Did your experience in catering and event planning help prepare you to lead Why do hope to be the principal here for at least 10 years?

I say 10 years because it takes time to really learn a job and it takes three or a high school?

Yes. School is like running an event every day four years for change to really occur. I can’t imagine not sticking around to see because there’s the big picture but also the little some of the things we’re working on and other things beyond that.

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What’s your favorite memory as a Benicia High student?

Probably attending the rallies during my senior year. We had special shirts made that said “Class of 97,” and I still have mine.

And playing on the soccer team.

Because I was a student here, I have lots of school pride. I own a lot of blue and wear blue and gold often, and I’m now planning my 20-year high school reunion.

What are the best parts of being a high school principal?

I’m enjoying everything I do. I like the idea of being involved all around campus. … You get to enjoy what you’re doing more if you focus on the positive part instead of always going to the negative.

One of the best things about being a high school principal is that you get to see students at this point in their lives when they are testing themselves and seeing who they are in the world.

It’s neat to see.

What has surprised you during your first year as principal?

The importance of communication. With some of the situations that have occurred on campus, gaps can occur in communication. It’s a really fine line, a balance of what we can communicate and the need to protect the identify of students.

There are a lot of parents who care. We want to continue to improve.

Another huge surprise is the effect of cell phones. These devices have such a huge effect and it’s growing more and more every year. Cell phones magnify every frustration. You take any feeling and you amplify it as kids retweet it, like it.

As a teacher, you deal with them in classrooms. But as an administrator, it’s very different. We’re seeing how cell phones come into play with bullying, with drug sales, with discipline.

The ability to use apps that disappear affects those.

How might changes in federal education policy affect Benicia High?

That’s a tough question. Because we’re in California and it seems like many things will be left to the states, my hope is we’ll be able to keep going the way we have been.

What motivates you to do this?

The outcomes of seeing how the work you do makes a difference, of seeing what students are creating and what they accomplish, of seeing our staff and what they’re doing, of seeing the changes to the campus. It’s neat to see the progress.

What do you do to relax?

July is travel time. Winter break is time at home with the family.

Summer time, I have one fun trip with my girlfriends and one trip with my daughter and family. I like to get out and explore somewhere new. It’s fun to be able to travel with my daughter.

What’s next for you?

Hopefully nothing big. Hopefully a new bell schedule next year and a new stadium. I’m looking forward to see what’s on the edge of happening. I intend to be in Benicia for a long time.

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 25

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T RE N D S

Oscar Fever!

By Christina Strawbridge Courtesy photos The 89th Academy Awards will go down in history for its controversial Best Picture envelope mix up. For six women, it will be remembered as a life-altering experience on the red carpet.

Scott was able to bid with Marriott points on two VIP Oscars Red Carpet packages that included seating in the fan bleachers along the Academy Awards red carpet, followed by an Oscar viewing party at the El Capitan Theatre across from the Awards Show. We won both packages, equaling six tickets. Calls went out to friends with the invitation to join me for 48 hours in LALA Land. And the winners were: Patti Baron, Patty Gavin, Donna Ernst and Penny Stell, all from Benicia, and my sister Anne Willis from North Carolina. We went through extensive security checks, made travel arrangements and most importantly, decided on what to wear.

Our excitement was hard to contain. We were in constant communication about the itinerary and other details. We flew into Burbank, lunched at The Ivy, toured Rodeo Drive and had dinner at Nobu, hoping to capture the LA scene and celebrity sitings. The big day finally arrived and there we were, being chauffeured to the Oscars in true Hollywood style. Although comfortable attire was recommended, we opted for casual with a fashionable edge. I chose a red, French designed jacket with a silver sequined scarf, Patti Baron wore lots of gold, Anne donned a white jacket with rhinestone embellished collar and matching sunglasses. Donna wore hot pink; Penny, an off-theshoulder black top with silver bling and Patty Gavin wore a jacket with a midnight blue sheen. I supplied red gloves for each of us, in order to be seen cheering and waving to celebrities.

Our front row seats were across from the foreign press and Jimmy Kimmel's sidekick Guillermo, who attracted lots of attention from celebrities. In most of his coverage, you can see us waving those red gloves for the cameras. We were interviewed by Bay Area Channel 7 ABC News, the BBC, a Dubai Network, and reporters from the Netherlands and Telemundo.

Friends as far away as Australia saw the Red Glove Girls.

It was exciting to see celebrities interact with each other. A touching moment came when Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban met mathematician Katherine Johnson, who at 98, is confined to a wheelchair, and whose character was portrayed in the nominated Best Picture, Hidden Figures.

Another standout moment was when little Sunny Pawar, who played the young Saroo Brierley in the Best Picture nominee Lion, enthusiastically responded to the crowd cheering his name. He stole my heart all over again.

The fashion was outstanding this year with sequins, velvet, embroidery and neutral tones. My favorites were Emma Stone in Givenchy Haute Couture and Nicole Kidman in Armani Prive.

Both gowns had incredible detail and looked gorgeous against the pale skin of the women. Halle Berry wowed the crowd in a glamorous Atelier Versace dress with matching curly wig.

Michelle Williams looked demur in a black halter and white sequin Louis Vuitton number, with her signature pixie haircut.

The men on the red carpet made fashion news with sequins, gold and for Ryan Gosling, a ruffled shirt. The last star to make his way down the carpet was Denzel Washington, whose handlers were trying to move him past the press. He broke through the stanchions and came right over to the Red Gloves, giving the six of us a high five. Did that just happen?

The remainder of the evening was spent watching the show from our seats at the El Capitan Theater, eating popcorn and rooting for the nominees we had just seen up close and personal. The Red Carpet Experience will always be one of those unforgettable moments, especially for this Hollywood and fashion groupie, and a lasting bond between the six of us was solidified. Here's to Hollywood and the Red Glove Girls!

26 • Benicia Magazine Trends

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Arthur Stern, photo by Peg Jackson

Lisa Duncan Photography

April 2017 Events Benicia Mini Maker Faire Photo byJerry Bowles

Free Compost Giveaway and Re-use Roundup

4/1, 9am-1pm City Corp Yard 2400 East Second Street, Benicia The City of Benicia and Republic Services are hosting a FREE compost giveaway just in time to start spring gardens. Bring your own container and it will be filled. Fivegallon buckets work best. The limit is 30 gallons per household. Please bring driver’s license with address for each household, as this event is limited to Benicia residents only. Residents may also bring donations of gently used clothing, housewares, bicycles, toys, games, and costume jewelry. Sorry, NO mattresses, large furniture, electronics, stuffed animals, or overly worn items.

Donations will go to Faith Food Fridays, a nonprofit serving the less fortunate of Solano County.

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Total Home & Garden Show

4/1 & 2, 10am-5pm 300 Chadbourne Road, Fairfield This event features everything related to home improvement inside and outside of the home, including exhibitor demos and workshops throughout the weekend, free parking, raffles and giveaways. Meet hundreds of vendors and talk to the 'pros,’ compare prices and save money on your next project. Enter the 'Recycled Art Competition' or show off your car at the 2nd annual classic car show also taking place.

Entry forms can be found at website below.

Also including a beer and margarita tent, food court, interactive kids corral, crafts, bounce houses, petting zoo and more.

Admission $8 (adults), seniors $6 (age 60+), children $3 (ages 3-12), under 3 free. Military $6, with proper ID. Totalhomeandgardenshow.com 707.446.8226.

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 family-friendly 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

Friends of the Library Monthly Book Sale

4/8, 10am-4pm The Friends of the Benicia Public Library offers a host of resources, and helps fund library services through the sale of donated used books, including enrichment through speakers and programs, purchasing special books and equipment and sponsoring a children’s activities. A book sale is held the second Saturday of every month at the Library in downtown Benicia, in the Benicia Library basement, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org/friends 707.746.4343

Barkitecture 2017

4/8, 6:30-10:30pm McCormack Hall, Solano County Fairgrounds 900 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo The annual Barkitecture is a highlight for Humane Society of the North Bay and animal lovers everywhere. This year’s theme is “Parrrgh-ty Fur Ye Pets.”

HSNB is entering it’s fourth decade of providing shelter, care, and adoption services to thousands of abandoned and neglected animals. Join 500 animal lovers and community leaders for a night of swashbuckling fun. Every ticket, table, and auction item sold raises money to support homeless animals. Build a creative habitat for a furry forever friend and it just might win best prize. Pirate costumes encouraged, but not required. Tickets ($60) and sponsorships are available online.

Hsnb.org/barkitecture

Benicia Old Town Theatre Group Presents Intimate Apparel

4/21-5/13 Fridays & Saturdays 8pm; Sundays 2pm Historic BDES Hall 150 West J Street, Benicia This play by Lynn Nottage and directed

by Dan Clark captures the heart of 1905 New York with captivating characters and relationships within varied classes. The story focuses on Esther, a specialty seamstress of intimate apparel, and asks the questions, “At what price, love; and at what cost, need?" General admission $22; seniors and students with valid ID, $20. Opening Night Champagne Gala is $30.

Beniciaoldtowntheatregroup.com 707.746.1269

Sebastopol Apple Blossom Festival and Parade

4/22 &23, 10am-6pm Parade begins at 10am on Main Street Festival takes place at Ives Park Jewell Ave and Willow Streets, Sebastopol Folks come from miles around to enjoy the parade. The festival includes hand made floats; amazing animals and colorful displays; a fantastic musical line up with two stages; a variety of vendors with food, crafts, clothing, jewelry, furniture and more; amazing local wine, craft beer, food and drink; children’s rides, farm animals and more. Tickets $12 for adults, $10 for seniors and students, free for children 10 and under.

Appleblossomfest.com

San Francisco Earth Day Festival and Climate Rally

4/22, 10am-6pm Civic Center Plaza 355 McAllister Street, San Francisco Every year, up to 10,000 people from the Bay Area and beyond come together to celebrate Earth Day San Francisco.

This year, it’s happening again, along with a climate rally for Mother Earth. The festival will feature amazing top notch entertainment, dynamic panel discussions, speakers and activists at the ‘Eco Teach In’ Rally, an organic celebrity chef showcase and much more. Earthdaysf.org

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Opening Day of Benicia Farmers Market 2017

4/27, 4-8pm First Street from B to D Streets Benicia Benicia Main Street draws many people to its popular Farmers Market. The Market offers fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, gourmet food, delicious hot foods, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and face painting. It’s open Thursdays beginning in late April and ending in October.

Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

4/29, all day First Street, downtown Benicia Discover amazing art found in downtown galleries while doing a scavenger hunt. Participants will receive a free “I Love Benicia� bag and be entered in drawing to win $100 in Downtown Dollars.

Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

24th Annual Benicia Classic Car Show

4/30, 9-3pm First Street Green, Benicia This year’s annual Benicia Classic Car Show combines classic car owners and enthusiasts from around the Bay for a day of fun, music and competition. Hosted by the Benicia High Band Boosters, proceeds go directly to support the BHS Panther Marching Band program. In addition to 400 classic cars, vendor booths will sell food, crafts and car related merchandise. pantherbandboosters.com

30th Annual Arts Benicia Artists’ Open Studios

5/7 & 8, 10am-5pm Arts Benicia Gallery & studios around Benicia 991 Tyler Street #114, Benicia Each year scores of artists open the doors of their studio spaces throughout Benicia’s Historic Arsenal District & around town. Ride the free SolTrans Shuttle between the Arsenal & downtown and explore artist studios on Jackson & Tyler Streets in the Arsenal, see glass blowing, tour galleries, watch demonstrations and purchase original art. Event & parking are free. At the Arts Benicia gallery, a retrospective exhibition will feature the works of Mike Kendall, honoring his exceptional work with Arts Benicia.

Artsbenicia.org 707.747.0131

Celebrating Our 37th Year!

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

Huge savings on select in-stock models

New-Used Books Toys, Games, Gifts

$

5 OFF

with purchase of $25 or more

Can not be combined with any other offer, exp. 4/30/17

636 First Street, Benicia Open Every Day 707.747.5155 bookshopbenicia.com

Benicia’s Award Winning

Speaker Company Exceptional Loudspeakers since 1986

Now Hear This.

707-747-0122

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4/28-30 San Mateo Event Center 1346 Saratoga Drive, San Mateo Experience renewal while engaging your senses in the very latest in nurturing and sustainably-sourced products and services for body, mind and

Art Scavenger Hunt

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New Living Expo

707.745.5933

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4/26, 11:30am-1:30pm Benicia Clock Tower Benicia’s prominent politicians, city workers, business owners and other local luminaries strut their stuff on a professional runway set up at the Benicia Clock Tower for the annual fashion show and buffet luncheon. Held each year on Administrative Professionals Day, the show, sponsored by downtown women’s store Christina S, benefits the Benicia Community Action Council and Senior Meals Program.

This year’s theme channels the recent Oscars ceremony as well as the latest fashions.

Christinasbenicia.com

Quality Home & Leisure Products

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Annual Benicia Fashion Show Luncheon

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

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4/23, 7-11am First & B Streets, Benicia The BEF Run for Education is a fantastic, family-friendly event for first-time runners to expert athletes. Proceeds from this event benefit the Benicia Education Foundation, a volunteer-run, communitybased non-profit organization that helps fund programs and services in the Benicia Unified School District. All events highlight Benicia's rich history starting from the beautiful First Street Green, including the 5 and 10K runs and the Kids Fun Run. See website for details, start times and registration info.

Beniciarunforeducation.org

soul. Learn while engaging in relevant and timely discussions of fascinating topics from leaders in new thought and elders with ancient wisdom.

Panel discussions, workshops, meditation, qigong and yoga, massage, nutritious and invigorating food and beverages round out the experience.

Tickets $20 per day, $30 for two days, $35 for three days.

Newlivingexpo.com

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10th Annual Benicia Run for Education

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Speakers starting at $250 a pair

Dolby Atmos Certified

(select models only)

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Benicia Certified

Opening Day April 27 Every Thursday 4-8pm, April through October

Celebrating 25 Years!

First Street between B & D Streets Sponsored by Benicia Main Street 90 First Street, Benicia

707.745.9791 beniciamainstreet.org

From Red Tagged to Red Ribbon!

We've Moved!

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 have moved our offices to the waterfront.

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

Celebrating our 70th year of Business

707-745-0924 216 First Street, Benicia • www.esteyrealestate.com 30 • Benicia Magazine

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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

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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

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