Benicia Magazine August Issue

top 10 spots FOR a summer picnic

WALKING THE CAMINO:

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4 • Benicia Magazine

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Benicia Magazine AUGUST VOLUME 7 ISSUE 10

16

18

14

Features

16 Top ten spots for summer picnic 18

A nine-day trek on the Camino de Santiago

20 Africa in the heart of the wine country at Safari West

Departments 10 From the Editor 12

Currents Benicia State Parks Association reaches an agreement with the State

Dining alfresco at an international array of Benicia eateries Recommended reading from local book clubs

13

14 Relay For Life annual fundraiser kicks off August 25

Part II: five friends celebrate turning 60 with a trip to Paris

32 Listening

Featured musician Don Bassey

33 Live Music Calendar 34 August Events

Benicia’s annual antiques & collectibles fair returns this month

26 Interview

30 Fashionista

Damon Wright, Benicia High’s new principal

29 Just for Kids 6 • Benicia Magazine

Cover photo: Benicia beach, by Jerry Bowles Monument to St. James on the Camino de Santiago. Top right: Family picnic. Bottom right: Relay For Life Lumineria

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magazine

Celebrating our 8th Year

Benicia Editor Jeanne Steinmann

magazine

Graphic Design Margaret Bowles

Web Specialist Yarrow Sweningsen

Benicia

Special Projects/Advertising Coordinator Joey Baker Contributing Writers Rhonda Lucile Hicks Beth Steinmann Christina Strawbridge Sue Sumner-Moore

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

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What’s on the Web

Beniciamagazine.com Attention Benicia Book Clubs Benicia Magazine wants to hear from you Send us your book recommendations and we will showcase your group.

Send club bio & reading list to editor@beniciamagazine.com 8 • Benicia Magazine

Benicia

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.

What makes a printing process Green?

Our printer incorporates many green practices far beyond state and federal guidelines. Sustainability in the pressroom includes: — Vegetable & soy inks — 100% paper waste recycled — Energy positive emissions systems — A plate-making system that virtually eliminates all chemicals

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Electronic devices are turned off at night and we use fluorescent light bulbs.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 9

Photo by Lisa Duncan

From the Editor August 2012 How is your summer going so far? As I write this, we're almost half way through the season. For me, August is always bittersweet. I love the long hours of summer sun, and stealing moments to do nothing in particular. The waning days always leave me lamenting the loss of light, and as we careen headlong towards the Autumnal Equinox, I find myself in a never-ending quest to find new reasons to be outside. For this issue’s story about the top 10 spots for a summer picnic, I visited every park in Benicia, and many other public spaces. It was fun to see the newer ones for the first time and rediscover the older ones.

We are fortunate to have so many scenic venues to sit and relax, read a book, play sports, barbeque, exercise and let kids run. Even after our kids grow up, we can still get out and enjoy the occasional park bench or picnic table.

There’s also a bit of a family connection in this issue. My husband Mike, who is taking a three month leave from work after a mentally grueling year on a complex engineering project, fulfilled a lifelong desire to trek in Spain on an ancient pilgrimage path called the Camino de Santiago, “The Way of St. James.” It was not our intention to spotlight his experience in print. But as we came to know more about this 1,000 year-old path, (where all walkers are called pilgrims) and its fascinating history. Family and friends wanted to know more, so we decided to share it with readers.

Ancient and modern-day pilgrims start from various points in Europe, for religious and personal reasons, through farms, over Roman bridges, up and down hills and through the centers of small villages. Outside of Leon, there’s a large pile of rocks at the base of a cross, laid there by pilgrims over the millennia. The rocks represent their wishes, hopes, dreams and prayers. Most pilgrims carry passports to have stamped at each checkpoint, and Mike carried one for himself and one for a dear friend who has cancer, who expressed the desire to go with Mike, but was undergoing treatment. They say miracles happen on the Camino, and we are praying for miracles for our friends Bill and Emily. We know of many other people in town who have cancer—it is a tragedy that affects everyone—which is why we’ll be participating in the American Cancer Society’s local Relay For Life annual event at Benicia High School August 25 & 26. To find out more about the event, see our story on page 14 or visit the Facebook page, facebook.com/beniciarelay/info.

Whatever your plans include this month, I hope you’ll steal a moment to reflect on our extraordinary community and let yourself be inspired by Benicia’s people and places.

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

Correction: Nick Phillip’s job description and photo credit were incorrect in last month’s Listening story. Phillips is a record company executive at Concord Music. The photo was by Randall Gee. We regret the error.

10 • Benicia Magazine

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• BENICIA STATE PARK •

• Closure Update •

Top photos by Jerry Bowles

California Dept. of Parks & Recreation's $54 million scandal unfolds as we go to print read it here: www.beniciamagazine.com/ Blogs/Happenings/July-2012/ California-Parks-Dept-Underreports-54-Million The hardworking volunteers at the Benicia State Parks Association have been diligently working behind the scenes, along with City of Benicia representatives, to keep our two state parks open, at least at some level. An operating agreement was reached in June in regards to the Benicia State Capitol for volunteers to staff the building on weekends. In addition, the City staff will maintain the grounds at the Capitol, as well as the restroom.

There are public restrooms on either end of First Street, but the restroom at the Capitol is the only one mid-block, an important factor for tourism. As the State moves forward with the closure of 70 State Parks, the California State Parks Association is helping to blunt the blow by doling out small grants to local parks associations (yes, it’s a head-scratcher). Benicia State Parks Association has received $51,000 to date for our two state parks.

12 • Benicia Magazine Currents

In mid-July, the Benicia City Council will have voted on a donor agreement with California State Parks in regard to the Benicia State Recreation Area (BSRA). The agreement calls for the City to pay the State $15,500, from August 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013, to: provide water for drinking fountains and irrigation to the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden, install and service two chemical toilets and provide two dumpsters and weekly service for trash and Benicia Magazine archives debris. At this time, there’s no resolution concerning landscaping maintenance at BSRA, but the Benicia Police will continue to patrol the area. Because BSRA was financed by the Federal Land and Water Conservation fund, it is required to be kept open to the public, and as such, will be accessible to pedestrians, bikers, and people with disabilities. It will, however, will remain closed to vehicle access. The agreement is called “a good first step,” and the Benicia State Parks Association hopes for a comprehensive solution for the Benicia State Recreation Area. B

Benicia Eateries Offer

r e m m u S n i i n g D o c s e fr l A Table Service for

As school resumes and days grow shorter, there’s still plenty of time to celebrate summer with a good meal from one of Benicia’s local eateries. Alfresco dining is at its best in August, so grab family and friends and head out to one of these fine establishments with outdoor table service for a golden moment in the sun. B

Benicia Grill

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Palermos

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Sailor Jacks

123 First street

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Union Hotel Restaurant

401 First Street

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First Street Café

440 First Street

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Lucca’s Bar & Grill

439 First Street #102

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Aroma Indian Cuisine

818 First Street

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Camellia Tea Room

828 First Street

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Nino O Seven Grill

907 First Street

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Venticello’s Ristorante

911 First Street

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Matsuri Sushi

920 First Street

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Issy’s Restaurant

1034 First Street

707.751.0103

Benicia Book Club

Finds a Social Outlet amid Literary Discussions Local plein air artist Pat Ryll was the first to contact Benicia Magazine for our new feature spotlighting local book clubs and their literary selections. Benicia likes to read, and there are many book clubs registered with Bookshop Benicia (Bookshop Benicia has its own book club.)

Pat’s group won our $50 gift certificate contest to Bookshop Benicia for future purchases.

Pat shared these details about how their club operates: A moderator researches the featured book’s author to share with the group and emails questions to members in advance in order to facilitate discussion at the next meeting. The moderator also leads the discussion. If members have not read the book they are welcome to attend but can’t participate in the discussion portion of the meeting. At the conclusion of the discussion, lunch is served by the host and the meeting turns social. They keep their mix fresh by including non-fiction, fiction, best sellers and classics. Pat sums up the group this way: “Many of us live alone by choice and the book group gives us a sense of community and belonging that enhances our lives, our health and our wellbeing.” Members include an English teacher, a librarian, a double master in English Literature and several working and retired professionals.

The group recommends these favorites:

A Fine Balance, by Rohinton Mistry In the Land of Invisible Women, by Qanta A. Ahmed, MD The Outliers, by Malcolm Gladwell The Three Daughters of Madam Liang, by Pearl S. Buck The Help, by Kathryn Stockett Southwest Corner, by Mildred Walker B

e Magazin ia ic n e B

ts h g i l t o p S Clubs Book

Featured Book Club: No official name, formed in 2010 Number of Members: 12 Accepting New Members: With two new members, the club is currently full Frequency: Once a month on Wednesday at 11am Location: Rotates at members' homes for a “yummy” lunch and book discussion BeniciaMagazine.com • 13

Painting the Town Purple It’s a sad fact that most of us know someone who has cancer. The annual Benicia Relay For Life is a community event that allows family and friends to come together for support.

The event is a 24-hour fundraising relay at Benicia High School, August 25 at 9am. Teams are formed, and team members take turns walking in a relay all day and all night.

This year’s goals include 50 teams and raising $100,000. Last year’s event raised $84,000. As of mid-July, 38 teams had signed on, with 205 participants. Fundraising stands at just under $32,683. The excitement in town is palpable as Benicia becomes a continuous string of parties and events, through creative fundraisers from bingo games to bling bras. There’s a high priority placed on the fun and celebratory aspect of the event.

August 1st, volunteers will “paint the town purple” with ribbons and banners lining First Street.

“Relay for Life offers everyone an opportunity to celebrate loved ones and friends who are winning their battle with cancer, and to remember those we have lost. We are fighting back to stop this horrific, life-changing disease. We do this by walking in relay form for 24 hours; the 24 hours depicts a day in the life of a cancer patient who lives with this disease 24 hours every day,” says event chairperson Leeann Cawley. “There will be entertainment, food and camaraderie throughout the relay. It begins with a Survivors Lap around the track, honoring those who have survived the disease. After dark, both survivors and victims are honored and remembered during the Luminaria Ceremony. Candles are lit and placed inside sand-filled bags, which bear the name of someone affected by cancer.”

Councilwoman Christina Strawbridge, former Relay chairperson, knows how much work is entailed to make the event a success. “We are all affected by cancer. This is a great event that draws people together and provides hope to everyone—cancer victims, cancer survivors and loved ones,” she says. “It is so worthwhile. Everyone can get involved.”

Relay for Life events take place throughout the country, and have been instrumental in raising not only funds, but awareness as well. For more information, visit relayforlife.org/beniciaca, or facebook.com/BeniciaRelay. B

Benicia’s 49-year old Peddler’s Fair Still Going Strong

14 • Benicia Magazine Currents

Photos courtesy of Benicia Relay For Life

With only one more year until the Fair’s golden anniversary, the annual event is still packing in the crowds. One of the largest fairs of its kind in Northern California, First Street is closed to vehicle traffic from J Street to the waterfront each year. It is said to attract upwards of 20,000 visitors for the antiques and collectibles event.

This year it will take place August 11, 8am-5pm. Savvy shoppers come early to snag the best finds as dealers set up their booths. They also get premium parking on downtown streets that are generally full by 9am for many blocks on both sides of First Street. Parking is also available on East 2nd and D Street. Disabled parking is available at Bank of the West at First & J Streets. The Fair is free of charge.

This outdoor, pedestrian-only event began in 1963 with a few collectible and antique stores displaying their wares outside St Paul's Church. It has grown to over 300 select antique and collectible dealers from all over the country. The show offers new collectors and seasoned veterans of the collectible world an opportunity to treasure hunt for hours. What will they find? Popular items include period furniture, decorative antiques, vintage textiles and fashion, pottery, porcelain, pink and blue Depression glass, paintings, prints, jewelry, clocks, hardware and more. Dealers at the fair are generally very knowledgeable and happily answer questions. New this year is a Children’s Art Space, a free drop-in for creative projects. Animals are not allowed.

For more information, visit beniciapeddlersfair.org. B

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Benicia’s

Top Ten Spots

1

for a

Summer Picnic The rhythm of summer is marching on.

We’re on the downhill side of the season, but there’s still plenty of time to squeeze in some fun with a good, old-fashioned summer picnic. In Benicia, we are spoiled for choice. With over 700 acres of parks, a lovely lake and miles of waterfront, how does one decide? In our Top Ten Picnic Primer, we’ve taken the guesswork out of the equation, so that all readers need to do is grab their gear: a blanket, a book and a picnic basket packed with favorites. Or take the no-stress route and order to go from one of Benicia’s many local eateries. Maximize the experience by shunning electronic devices that divert your attention from nature. You’ll be on your way to a few hours of family, friends, food and fun. Is there any better way to celebrate summer?

16 • Benicia Magazine

Photos by Lisa Duncan

Best place to exercise before & after you eat Benicia State Recreation Area

Best getaway feeling Lake Herman

Best for family fun Community Park

Best place to daydream The Benicia Marina

Although it’s on the State Park closure list, for now, the park remains open to pedestrians and cyclists.

You’ll need to walk or cycle to picnic tables, but it’s well worth the effort. Explore hidden paths, observe wildlife, marvel at the Forrest Deaner Garden and drink in the view.

There is something for everyone at this massive park.

The quarter-mile perimeter path is an appealing way to stay fit while watching soccer & baseball. The dog park, X-park, playground and concrete slide make this park the busiest in town. Reserve through the city or go early on weekends. Photo #3

Best beach Ninth Street Park

Benicia’s own crescent-shaped sandy beach is a popular choice for the boating and water sports crowd.

With a boat launch and a sheltered cove, it’s perfect for kayaking and paddle-boarding. A volleyball court, lots of grass and playground for younger kids makes this one of Benicia’s most popular options. Photo #2

Surrounded by golden hills that beckon the hiker, Lake Herman Park is a lovely, quiet area that is off the beaten track. It’s underutilized, and a good choice for avoiding weekend crowds. Enjoy hiking trails, catch & release fishing and a shady picnic grove along the shore.

On the far side of the Marina, sandwiched between the boat slips and the Strait there’s a grassy area, the famed “Benicia Bench” self portrait bust by the late Benicia artist Robert Arneson, a pair of picnic tables and lots of watercraft to inspire daydreams of sailing into the sunset. Photo #1

Best multifunctional park & handicap accessibility Jack London Park

One of Benicia’s prettiest and most interesting parks, Jack London’s uniquely designed features include horseshoe pits, a playground, meandering paths and sculptural elements. The barbeque pits & picnic tables are wheelchair accessible.

piCnic spOts at A glAnce beNicia coMmunitY parK Dempsey Drive

beNicia statE reCreatioN areA Military West & West K St.

2

lakE heRman

Lake Herman Road

nintH stReet paRk/boaT laUnch Ninth Street at the waterfront

citY parK

First Street at Military West

firsT stReet greEn/prOmenadE First & B Streets

frAncescA teRrace park 3

East Entrance to Hillcrest Ave.

skIllmaN parK

Rose Drive at Gallager

Best for commerce First Street Green and Promenade

To catch the downtown buzz, park your picnic on a blanket on the green, at the beach or on the promenade and watch the economy unfold on land and water. You can shop or gallery hop, people-watch or meet dogs taking their owners for a stroll.

Best for shade on a hot day Francesca Terrace Park

When temperatures soar, lots of turf and a grove of Redwoods makes for great picnicking. Adults are happy with ample space for a game of Frisbee or horseshoes; kids are happy with a playground and room to run.

jacK loNdon park

Rose Drive at Hastings

beNicia maRina

Waterfront, E. 3rd- E. 5th =PicnicTables =BBQ

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Best for young kids City Park

The Playground of Dreams was built by community members in 1992 in just five days, and has been a big draw for families ever since. With lots of picnic tables scattered throughout the park, kids are happy for hours while parents grill nearby.

Best Place to relax with a book Skillman Park

This lovely neighborhood park is another great picnicking option in Southampton. It features barbeque grills and tables under a curved arbor overlooking a playground for younger kids. It has a peaceful vibe that makes sitting on a bench and reading a good book very appealing. Photo #4 B

4 BeniciaMagazine.com • 17

Benicia Resident

Takes on the Camino

By Beth Steinmann This is a story about a man from Benicia and a path in Spain.

Mike Steinmann has been a Benicia resident for 29 years, and has been commuting to work in San Francisco nearly two thirds of that time. The stress of long hours sandwiched between a big commute builds over time, so this summer, Mike decided to take a leave from work—and, embark on an adventure. But where to go? He desired an experience completely different from his everyday life, that would stretch his comfort zone. He settled on the Camino de Santiago— an ancient pilgrimage route stretching across Europe and ending at the site of (tradition has it), the remains of St. James the Apostle, in Santiago, Spain at the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral. “I wanted to get away on my own and I liked the idea of The Camino because it was good physical exercise, a challenge, a component of having to exert yourself. It intrigued me because of its historical and religious significance and the fact that there was a good infrastructure of cafes and places to sleep—it’s a well-travelled path, yet remote at the same time.”

El Camino de Santiago, or “The Way of Saint James,” over 1,000 years old, is actually many trails that converge into one. People begin all over Europe. In antiquity, pilgrims started at their front door, 18 • Benicia Magazine

meeting other pilgrims en route. A popular path is the Camino Francés, which begins on the French side of the Pyrenees, and runs about 350 miles. The route leading to Santiago actually ends 15 miles beyond the cathedral, at Finisterre, an ancient Celtic city that was believed to be the end of the earth. Indeed, the history of The Camino dates back well before Christianity. Remains of Celtic villages and Roman bridges still dot the trail, as do old churches, where pilgrims would rest and eat at the end of a day’s walk. “You could see how the trail had just been a foot or horse trail and became a wider roadway for carts, then had gotten paved with stones at some point, and became the Camino Primitivo. There are parts of it that are still cobblestone paths. Some paths turned into streets, then highways­—villages grew into towns and cities.”

Some medieval pilgrims walked the path as penance for high crimes, and many to view the touted remains of Saint James. The route was highly travelled during the Middle Ages; then the Black Death, political unrest and the Protestant reformation lead to its decline. But since about 1980 its popularity has reignited—Mike estimated, based on the number of pilgrims arriving in Santiago each day, that there were between five and ten thousand travelers on the Camino Francés at any given time. In 2010, 272,000 people walked the Camino.

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Photos 1 & 2 by Andrew Woodgate Photos 3, 4 &5 by Mike Steinmann What are modern people searching for? “Most of the people that I talked to were there for some means of personal discovery, whether they were young people who had lost their job, or older people whose children had moved out. The people who were walking the whole Camino were very thoughtful, introspective and very humbled by the experience, even if they weren’t there for a religious reason. If you think of the Camino as sort of a metaphor for life, we’re all on this path, and sometimes you know why you started down the path, sometimes you’re just stumbling along. But you’re on this path and you wonder, am I on the right path? Am I going the right direction? That’s what a lot of people were acting out.”

Many modern-day pilgrims walk for three months to reach the Santiago de Compostela, and some walk just portions of the trail.

Mike walked about 100 miles in nine days. The steep, varied terrain was physically challenging. He often felt communication barriers with the locals, and missed his family. But the aloneness also led to a greater sense of connection. He found strength in “being able to see the moon, and know that my wife could see the same moon. There are ways to feel connected even when you can’t pick up your cell phone.

You just have to reach down for them—they’re there.”

Mike has a lung condition that reduces his breathing capacity.

I asked him how much difficulty this added to his walk. He said, “I saw many, many people that had challenges, people walking with crutches, older people with ailments. My walking companion had a stroke and only had one useable arm. It was a challenge for him buttoning his shirt and putting on his backpack. Even if you’re healthy, you see others who are struggling or having a difficult time. People are very aware of that and very helpful.”

“Buen Camino” is the common adage along the trail. People might pass each other and meet again further down the road. They may share a meal and talk about what they’ve seen and learned, what they’re looking for. Mike is still assimilating his experience even after he’s returned home to Benicia. “As I think about it, I’m learning new things. I learned that I want to be more real. I think we all kind of build a shell around ourselves, a persona, that we want to put out there in the world; we want to hide our weaknesses and accentuate our image of perfection. Over the years that shell can become thick and hard to maintain. I want to learn that I don’t need that shell, I don’t need that persona. This, in itself, is a journey. I’ve taken the first step down that path.” For him, the adventure really is just beginning. B BeniciaMagazine.com • 19

c i t S o a x f ari E n A — in the Wilds of —

Sonoma County

By Beth Steinmann “The spirit of Africa in the heart of the Wine Country” is the appropriately exotic motto at Safari West, a 400-acre wildlife preserve located in the oak-studded hills between Santa Rosa and Calistoga. Safari West offers year-round, authentic safari vehicle tours, private safaris, lodging and dining. It’s home to herds of buffalo and wildebeest, hosts of antelope, a shimmer of zebras, a pair of robust rhinoceroses, ostriches, gazelles, lemurs, and dozens of bright bird species—to name a small sampling.

The focus is on preservation and propagation—Safari West has been propagating endangered species since its establishment in 1989. Conservation programs are currently in place for two species of Saharan Desert Antelope that are now extinct in the wild. Education, research and public interaction are key parts of the mission—I can attest to the latter; I’d never seen so many exotic animals up-close, except in a zoo. As a Northern California native, I found the surrealism of crawling through familiar hillsides in an open-air jeep and encountering all those safari animals, well… strange but beautiful. The tour included about two hours in the jeep, followed by a brief break and 45 minutes by foot. I learned that rhinos weigh about two tons, live up to 50 years, and mate for life; and that giraffes have only seven vertebrae in their necks, just like us.

My time on Safari was limited to one afternoon, but the preserve is lined with stylized, comfortable tent-cabins.

Safari West is the outlandish brainchild of Peter Lang, son of Otto Lang, who directed Flipper and Daktari—his childhood was not lacking in exposure to wild animals.

He and his wife, Nancy, a zoological biologist, live on the property. They say that Sonoma County is the perfect place for Sub-Saharan animals due to the similarity in climate. They enthuse, “Indeed... a sip of chardonnay pairs marvelously with a spot of cheetah!” Who knew?

Safari West Wildlife Preserve and African Tent Camp 3115 Porter Creek Road, Santa Rosa, CA 95404 707.579.2551, safariwest.com. B

20 • Benicia Magazine

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Weekends

Art Exhibits

Weekly Event Guide Live Music

Theater

Benicia and around

the Bay

Dance

Poetry Readings

Festivals

Preforming Arts

Newsletter Food & Wine Events

Information

"What are we doing this weekend?"

Sign up online for Weekends, our free newsletter event guide On Wednesdays we’ll email you our top picks for weekend events in Benicia and around the Bay

Beniciamagazine.com

Benicia Magazine’s Free Weekly Event Guide 22 • Benicia Magazine

French

49th Annual Benicia Peddler’s Fair Saturday, August 11, 8am • Free admission

CONVERSATIONAL CLASSES

300 select vendors On First Street from J Street to the waterfront Antiques • Collectibles Hand-made art items • arts & crafts

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 23

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310 Military West 946 F Tyler Street 940 Tyler Street 82 Solano Square 18 West K Street 935 First Street 929 First Street 907 First Street 838 First Street 828 First Street 800 First Street 736 First Street 726 First Street 700 First Street 640 First Street 637 First Street 107 East F Street 615 First Street 601 First Street 507 First Street 159 East D Street 435 First Street 370 First Street 309 First Street 252 First Street 123 First Street 90 First Street

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A. Judith Judson B. Consignment Arsenal C. Benicia Historic Arsenal D. Sprankle’s Village Deli 1. Tosch Dental 2. Estey Real Estate 3. Adobe 2nd Chance Thrift Store 4. Nine O Seven Grill 5. Benicia Floral & Gifts 6. Camellia Tea Room 7. BlueBird Vintage 8. Benicia Home Improvement 9. Rellik Tavern 10. Studio 41 11. Sandoval’s 12. Fiber-Frolics 13. Lindsay Art Glass 14. Advanced Mortgage SVF 15. Chamber of Commerce 16. All About Beauty Day Spa 17. Dudikoff Insurance 18. Zen Spa 19. Christina S Fashion Destination 20. Be Chic Boutique 21. Yan Spa & Massage 22. Sailor Jack’s Restaurant 23. Benicia Main Street

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24 • Benicia Magazine

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By Sue Sumner-Moore Benicia High’s new principal knows he faces a challenge to build

unity at the school, and he’s determined to succeed.

“I read the blogs so I understand what I’m walking into. I’m not here to dictate what to do from here on out. I’m here to reach out to the community, hear what they have to say, learn the different skill sets and interests that are here, and work on shared leadership,” says Damon Wright, who is BHS’ fourth principal in seven years. Although he officially started the job on July 1, he began working here weeks earlier while wrapping up his job as assistant principal at California High School in San Ramon.

Wright dove deep into education after working for the San Diego County probation department. Within a month of becoming a probation officer, he realized he wanted to be involved earlier in the process of influencing people’s lives. Thirteen years later, he felt ready to become a high school principal and Benicia was geographically desirable for the American Canyon resident. “I knew it was not sustainable to become a principal in San Ramon because of the commute.”

Wright and his wife moved to American Canyon to be near her family. The couple have two daughters in elementary school.

Wright, 39, enjoys his 12-hour workdays. “Your job changes from minute to minute. One minute you might have to be a disciplinarian, the next minute you’re counseling a student in need, then you’re off to a football game,” he says.

Interview with

Damon Wright

Why did you want to come to Benicia High?

Benicia has always been on my radar in terms of where I live. Benicia is a great school, a high-achieving school, in a great community.

I saw there was a lot of turnover, and there were some concerns about the school. I also understand that it’s just a small population on the blogs, and they’re not representative of the community as a whole.

You have to take it with a grain of salt.

I see some frustration with the system and I want to be part of the solution. I want to be here for a while. I have to be concerned with turning this around, creating a better learning environment for the students. We’re starting at a great place with an 830 API (Academic Performance Index, a statewide measurement of schools), and I want to reach the next level.

What are your goals for your first year?

I want to develop relationships, build trust and create the ability for shared leadership with the community, students and staff. It’s going to be a busy year. We’ve got WASC (an accrediting team from the Western Association of School and Colleges) coming in the spring, so I’ll be tightening up the bolts for the February visit. …

I want my staff to feel appreciated; I want them to feel supported.

I want to make sure they can do the best they can to educate the students.

I want to support students and their learning, and the staff and their work. I didn’t make that up, I stole it from San Ramon.

You come from a wealthier school district. How will you cope with the leaner resources here in Benicia?

Yes, in San Ramon, we were in a pretty good state financially. But within the district, California High was the school that had the least among the high schools. We were constantly looking for contributions.

How am I going to handle that in Benicia? I’m not quite sure. If I have to hit the pavement, I will. But money isn’t the solution to everything.

It’s the people who make it work.

26 • Benicia Magazine Interview

Photo by Lisa Duncan

How do you plan to deal with the low staff morale at the high school?

I’ve sent out a general email to everyone, inviting them to come by and see me. I’ve had several meetings already. I hear what is working well, what needs to be improved. I think the more you talk, the more you share decision—making and follow through with what you decide to do­—you have to follow through—the more you build trust and accountability.

I am accountable to my staff, to my community, to my students, to the district board—but the staff is, too. That means you have to be very aware of things going on at your school site. Ultimately, every classroom, every course needs to be rigorous and relevant. And relational. Every student on this campus should have a relationship with an adult on this campus, someone they can turn to, talk to.

Do you have a plan to bring together the distinct groups within the school community?

That’s a difficult one to answer. I think as I progress, I’ll know better.

I’m not sure right now. I won’t be able to do anything until they know me and trust me. I do understand that it is a priority. I’m going to need more information before I know what I’m going to do.

What were your favorite subjects in high school?

PE. When I was in high school, I didn’t take advantage of all my opportunities. I played football, I ran track. I did enjoy English in the 10th grade and also in 12th grade, because of my relationships with the teachers. I also liked oceanography.

What opportunities do you think you missed?

I was not putting 110 percent into my school work. … I knew when I was in high school that I could do the minimum for about six or seven weeks, then earn As and Bs for the rest of the term and end up with a C. I was a good athlete, and my coaches kept telling me to study.

But when recruiters saw my transcript, that was it. That door closed and it haunts me to this day. There’s not a day that goes by when I don’t think, “What if?” That’s what motivates me to work two to three times as hard. I failed before and I don’t like that feeling, so I work to make sure I don’t fail again. B

Damon Wright stood out in a field of more than 30

applicants to become Benicia High’s new principal.

“What won us over with Damon was his passion for teaching students and his passion for being in Benicia. He made a strong sale for wanting to be in Benicia and to be in Benicia for a long time,” says Michael Gardner, assistant superintendent of human resources for Benicia Unified.

Gardner says Wright’s talents were evident when Benicia administrators visited California High School in San Ramon, where Wright was an assistant principal for the past three years.

“Not only did we hear great things from the people we had appointments with, people kept coming up to us and telling us how much they liked him, how much they were going to miss him, how he was the go-to guy on campus,” Gardner says.

Wright’s background includes: • Assistant principal, California High, 2009-2012 • School psychologist, California High, 2002-2009 • School counselor, Hoover High School in San Diego, 1999-2002 • Bachelor’s degree in psychology, Sacramento State, 1997 • Master’s degree in school counseling, National University in San Diego, 1999 • Pupil Personnel Service Credential, National University, 1999 • Professional Clear Administrative Services Credential, Association of California School Administrators, 2010-12

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 27

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Just For

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8/1 Up, Up, and Away with Mad

Science, Ages 8-14, 3pm A spectacular show that will dazzle and amaze Benicia Library, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

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Teen Movie and Book Club 4-7pm Teens will be reading Coraline by Neil Gaiman Doña Benicia Room 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

8/4

Smokey Bear’s Birthday Party 10-11am You're invited to Smokey Bear's birthday party! Also hiking, swimming, fishing, and camping Lake Solano Park 8685 Pleasant Valley Rd., Winters Solanolandtrust.org 707.432.0150

8/18 A Wild Time at the Wildlife Center 4-6pm Learn about and see the resident

wildlife. Suisun Wildlife Center 1171 Kellog Street, Suisun Suisunwildlife.org 707.429.4295

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Lawrence Hall of Science Challenge–Race Cars 12-4pm Race your custom-built Lego car down our times track. Test different wheels, weights & gearing to see who will win. Lawrencehallofscience.org 510.642.5132

8/25 A Great Dog Day by the Bay 10am-2pm

Dog contests, doggie treats, demonstrations Portion of proceeds benefits

the Humane Society Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

BENICIA UNIFIED SCHOOLS Registration for Continuing Students Registration for all BUSD students (your student must be enrolled to attend these dates*):

Benicia Middle August 17 and 20 • Benicia High August 15 and 16 Liberty High August 15 • All Elementary Sites August 14 Great schools, quality programs.

Benicia Unified School District 350 East K Street

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 29

y l b a n o i h s a AF y a d h t r i B h Frenc

In Part I, the Strawbridge’s, Tom and Patty Gavin and Patti Baron went to Europe to celebrate 60th birthdays, starting with London. We took the Chunnel from London to Paris, where our Right Bank hotel was on the Champs Elysees, famous for its cinemas, outdoor cafes and luxury shopping. In order to introduce the group to this glorious city, the five of us climbed what seemed 1,000 steps to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. It is one of the best places to see all of Paris end to end. The City of Light is at your feet.

France was also in a celebratory mood with the election of a new President and V-E Day. An enormous French flag was draped in the monument’s arch. The Champs Elysees was closed to traffic so outgoing President Nicolas Sarkozy and newly elected President Francois Hollande could lay a wreath at the Grave of the Unknown Soldier. In 1945, my Uncle Joseph Concannon, a young Air Force pilot, photographed V-E Day from the top of the Arc de Triomphe, capturing the triumph of France's liberation from Nazi Germany and the Parisians that lined the streets in celebration.

Since this was the first time for most of the group, each of our five days in Paris was spent in a different area. The Metro took us to the Left Bank and the 30 • Benicia Magazine Fashionista

Musée D'Orsay. The Orsay nearly brought Patty Gavin to tears as she stood before the original Renoir painting, Moulin de la Galette. Coincidently, we dined two nights later at the same spot in Montmartre that inspired the artist in 1876. Pass the Kleenex!

I shared the fashion districts with the group, including the couture design houses that line Avenue Montaigne.

Chanel had the best windows, featuring iconic black, white and cream, but with a twist: shorter hemlines and short socks with sandals. Other trends included cropped, narrow pant legs that hit just below the calf, smaller handbags, lower heeled shoes, and ropes of pearls and beads. I wore a gold trench coat from the early 1990's while we maneuvered our way through haute couture. After a few stops I noticed I was leaving a trail of gold behind me as my coat was shedding. I figured this was a unique way of leaving my mark on our adventure.

A new find was a vintage store called Renaissance, which had an amazing assortment of Yves Saint Laurent, Dior, Balenciaga and others, dating back to the 1930's. Patti found a pair of Jimmy Choo gold boots that fit her size 6 feet perfectly.

We believed that Carrie Bradshaw wore the same boots in season 4 of Sex in the City, and that she must have them.

By Christina Strawbridge Photos courtesy of Patty Gavin Part 2 of 2

Besides "Choo" shopping, we visited tiny stores near St. Germaine, including Marie Mercie, the Parisiene hat designer.

This store is a “must see” every time I go to Paris. Keeping with the gold theme, I purchased a canary yellow chapeau made of straw with a big bow worn to the front. This is my 9th hat from this famed millinery designer who collaborates with Hermes, John Galliano, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Kenzo and Agnes B. Timing is everything, as we were able to bid farewell to the famed Paris Ritz with an aperitif in the Vendome Bar before this high profile hotel closes for a two-year refurbishment. My favorite place to impress is the powder room off the lobby. The octagon shape with hidden mirrored doors, mural-painted ceiling and gold leaf trim recalls the opulence of a forgotten era.

We also squeezed in visits to five churches, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower.

We got lost in the wholesale shopping district, spent the evening in Montmartre, took the train to Versailles and on our last evening in Paris, had a birthday celebration at L'Avenue. Jean and Robert Higgs, our friends from London who had joined us for part of the week offered a toast to great friends, to turning 60 and a trip that will serve as a fabulous memory for decades of birthdays to come! B

Camellia Tea Room Voted #2 Best Tea House in the SF

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412 Military East, Benicia • 707.310.0928 BeniciaMagazine.com • 31

By Rhonda Lucile Hicks

You joined your first band, The Revelations, in the 9th grade and have been involved in musical projects your whole life—is their a common thread in your projects?

Teamwork, harmony, the friendships established and the exploration of unheralded and exciting music. New approaches to classic tunes, the constant quest for improvement and the desire to share the love with the crowd and uplift people with music.

You recently started the “Wednesday Night Ramble” at the Empress Theatre in Vallejo. What is a “Ramble?” The late, great Levon Helm called his gathering of musical friends and family at his barn in Woodstock, New York “The Midnight Ramble.” I decided to name our event at the Empress in his honor. More than just a jam, it’s also about the spirit of sharing ideas, friendship and musical styles.

What was your best moment on stage? There seems to be a new one each time I play. I call them “Goose Bump Moments.” It’s mostly about WHOM I’m playing with and that musical and spiritual connection. Opening for The Byrds in 1970 was a dream come true for a young fan of that band. Opening for B.B. King with The Volker Strifler Band a few years ago was also a high point. I’m lucky.

What bands are you currently playing with? Danny Click and

the Hell Yeahs! (we’re the Americana Orchestra when we play our acoustic shows), The North Bay All-Stars, Josh McIntosh Trio, Craig Cafall Band and Christopher Ford Band.

How long have you lived in Vallejo? With the exception of two

and a half years while I was stationed in Idaho, I’ve lived here since early 1973—over 36 years.

Photo by SN Jacobson

Featured Musician

Don Bassey Born: July 5, 1951 in Ann Arbor, MI Resides in: Vallejo, CA Favorite Food: Avocado Club Sandwich at the Sardine Can Relationship Status/Children: Married for almost 38 years to Louise; son Justin, daughterin-law Liz and grandson Cody

Musicians often laugh about the jobs they held down throughout their musical careers—what jobs have you held that might surprise us? Custom home construction—Dad’s building company, US Navy Nuclear Reactor Operator/Electronics Technician, Mayflower Moving and Storage, Concrete construction, tile setter, civilian electronics mechanic at Mare Island, loudspeaker manufacturer, pro audio specialist

What's the first music you remember hearing? Gene Autry

singing on his TV show. I was probably two.

When did you know you wanted to be a musician? When I watched Rick Nelson and his band on the Ozzie and Harriet Show on TV. Maybe at age seven or eight. B

Read the full interview online at beniciamagazine.com.

Alonzo and Small Insurance Agency

Your one-stop insurance shop since 1981

Com visit our Come d designer showrooms 2310 ““D” Bates Ave. Concor Concord (near HWY 4) also in Santa Clara Mon - Fri 7 - 5 and Sat 9 - 2 & Milbrae 925-798-7525 925 themouldingcompany.com themouldi

32 • Benicia Magazine Listening

Home, Auto, Motorcycle, Boat & Business Policies 707.746.0590 alonzosmall.com 1440 Military W. #202, Benicia

Live Music Ongoing 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

Gracie’s Barbeque, Vallejo

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

Sardine Can, Vallejo

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

Sticky Rice Chinese Bistro & Bar Fairfield Live Music every Saturday stickyricebistro.com 707.863.7500

Friday, August 10, 7pm Silo’s, Napa silosnapa.com

House of Floyd

Saturday, August 11, 7pm Rizza Auditorium, Vallejo communityconcerts.com

The Johnny Smith Group Saturday, August 11, 8pm Armando’s, Martinez armandosmartinez.com

Jessica Hoop

Monday, August 13, 8pm Yoshi's, Oakland yoshis.com

Diana Krall

Wednesday, August 15, 8:15pm Wente Vineyards, Livermore wentevineyards.com

Vinnie’s Bar & Grill, Concord

Manhattan Transfer

Special Events

Daline Jones & Diego Ramirez

Todos Santos Plaza, Concord Thursday, August 2, 6:30pm communityconcerts.com

Wycliffe Gordon

Saturday, August 4, 5pm Lesher Center for the Arts Walnut Creek lesherjazz.org

Yancy Taylor

Sunday, August 5, 5pm Bay Terrace Theatre, Vallejo vallejojazzsociety.org

Ravi Coltrane

Monday, August 6, 8pm & 10pm Tuesday, August 7, 8pm & 10pm Yoshi’s, Oakland yoshis.com

Friday, August 17, 8pm Uptown Theatre, Napa uptowntheatrenapa.com

Saturday, August 18, 8pm 851 Music Studio, Benicia 851MusicStudio.com

Joe Cocker

Huey Lewis and the News Saturday, August 18, 8pm Sleep Train Pavillion, Concord livenation.com

Preschool/Daycare 707.745.1413

First Week Free!

Going Places?

Now carrying Kiva luggage & travel accessories!

Jewelry, Home, Travel Gear, Chocolate & More

Open Every Day 700 First St. Benicia, CA 94510 707-745-0254 www.studio41.com

Visit our large showroom of fireplaces, stoves, inserts, BBQ’s and outdoor fireplaces & firepits

George Benson

Friday, August 24, 8pm Napa Valley Opera House, Napa nvoh.org

Stompy Jones

Saturday, August 25, 8pm El Campanil Theatre, Antioch elcampaniltheatre.com

Neil Diamond

Tuesday, August 7, 8pm HP Pavillion, San Jose livenation.com

The Little Blue Engine

Sunday, August 12, 7pm Shoreline Amphitheatre Mountain View livenation.com

Live music and dancing, Saturdays, 2pm-5pm winterhawkwinery.com, 707.428.6977

Steve Lucky & The Rhumba Bums

Reserve a spot now Opening enrollment for Summer & Fall

Toby Keith

Winterhawk Winery, Fairfield

All Pro Blues Jam, first and second Sundays vinniesbar.com 925.685.9515

In the Life of a Child

Lic# 483002056

Live music every Thurs., Fri. & Sat. Jazz Sunday afternoon firststreetcafe.com 707.745.1400

Tony Lindsay

Together We Can Make a Difference

SUMMER CLEARANCE ON SOME FLOOR MODELS JULY & AUGUST!

707.745.5933

Scan for more listings

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

BeniciaMagazine.com • 33

Calendar of Events

August 8/1-8/29 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

8/2-8/30 Benicia Certified Farmers Market 4-8pm

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

8/3 & 8/17 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

8/4-8/26 Capitol & Fischer-Hanlon House

Fischer-Hanlon tours 1st & 3rd Sun., 3rd Sat. Tours at 1, 2 & 3pm, Other times avail., 742-4108 Capitol: Open every Sat. & Sun. 10am-5pm 115 West G Street, Benicia, 707.745.3385

8/5 Poet’s Picnic 12-3pm

Hear our new and former Poet Laureates read Bring your own picnic fare & enjoy the afternoon City Park, First and Military West Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

8/7

First Tuesdays Investment Club

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

8/11 Benicia Peddler’s Fair 8am-5pm

Over 300 vendors, antiques, vintage textiles, pottery Depression glass, paintings, jewelry, clocks & more First Street, from J Street to the waterfront Beniciapeddlersfair.org 707.745.8680

8/11 Friends of the Library Book Sale 10am-4pm

8/11 Benicia Art Walk, Self-guided Tour 3-7pm

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

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

34 • Benicia Magazine Calendar

8/11 Benicia Plein Air Gallery Reception 5-7pm

8/11 Gallery 621 Opening Reception 5-8pm

8/15 Evening Book Club for Adults 7-8pm

8/16 League of Women Voters, 7-9pm

Featured artist Catherine Fasciato Thurs-Sun 12-6pm, exhibit runs through August 307 First Street, Beniciapleinair.com

Featuring photographer Christine Benkert Exhibit runs from August 9-Sept. 2 621 First Street, Benicia, Thurs-Sun 12-6pm Gallery621.com 707.746.6211

Library Doña Benicia Room Benicia Library, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

State initiative and referendum process discussion Camellia Tea Room, 828 First Street, Benicia Lwvbenicia.org

8/25 The Sustainable Benician Composting Class 9am

Learn how to successfully start your own compost Avant Garden, First & East D Street Sign up with Marie 925.671.5814

8/25-26 2012 Relay For Life 9am Sat. to 9am Sun.

There's a place for everyone at the Relay Each dollar raised will help save lives Benicia High School Track, 1101 Military West Relayforlife.org 707.334.0077 Leeann Cawley

8/28 Annual Taste of First Street 6-9pm

Sample cuisine from Benicia restaurants Enjoy two glasses of wine in a souvenir glass Downtown Benicia, First Street Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

Scan for more listings

Tuesday, August 28th 6-9pm DOWNTOWN BENICIA Taste the cuisine from many of the First Street Restaurants A chance to win Downtown Dollars

Advance tickets can be purchased at Benicia Main Street, 90 First Street, and from our website, for $30 per person or 2 for $55.

Tickets are $35 per person or 2 for $65 on the day of Taste of First.

707.745.9791 or www.beniciamainstreet.org for more information.

Welcome to

Tosch Dental Let us make you feel at home— even in the dental chair!

OFF

bleach when scheduled for a routine exam & cleaning Make an appointment today & meet Dr. Tosch; proudly serving Benicia families for over 25 years.

Ronald J. Tosch, DDS l 118 West K St., Benicia, CA 94510 707.745.2130 l www.toschdental.com BeniciaMagazine.com • 35

G R A N D

RE-OPENING Come see our beautiful, newly-remodeled showroom

Contractor’s License # 678979

FREE VASE, from the renowned Nourot Glass Studios, with the purchase of your kitchen

"Susy and I worked very closely during our kitchen remodel. My vision, with Susy’s guidance, made my dream kitchen come true."

—Cathy and Bruce

4852 East 2nd Street, Benicia Open Mon. - Fri. 9-5 AFFORDABLE QUALITY Cabinets and Countertops

36 • Benicia Magazine Listening

weekends & evenings by appointment

707-745-2100 www.aqchome.com