Benicia Magazine December 2013

GO-TO APPETIZERS

from local restauranteurs

CHAMPAGNE AND FOOD

pairings that might surprise

HOLIDAY GIFTS for all

$2.50 ***** ECR WSS ***** POSTAL CUSTOMER Please Deliver 11/27-11/30

ECRWSS PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PORTLAND OR PERMIT NO. 2160

Volume 9 Issue 2, December 2013

CSL #891342

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BENICIA FLOOR COMPANY

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M–F 10 to 5:30 l Sat. 10 to 3 or by appointment 84 Solano Square in Safeway Shopping Center, Benicia www.beniciafloorcompany.com

Large Showroom with Excellent Selection On-Time Installations Competitive Pricing Professional Reliable Hardwood Laminate Carpet Tile

Committed to Excellence in Customer Service 2 • Benicia Magazine

PROJECT RUNWAY COMES TO BENICIA!

Photo by Ryuuzaki Julio

Personal Appearance by Richard Hallmarq Project Runway Season 11 Presenting his exclusive Holiday collection Friday, December 6, 2013 5-9pm During the Downtown Benicia Holiday Open House

Fashion Destination ®

Fashion Shopping Evening Holiday apparel & stylish gifts wrapped to perfection!

Friday, December 13 Open late until 9pm

ChristinaSBenicia.com Facebook.com Open Every Day 370 First Street, Downtown Benicia 707.745.5125

BeniciaMagazine.com • 3

Saturday, December 7 6:15-8:30pm Dinner and party $5

Take the night off!

Go out to dinner or do some Christmas shopping.

We've got the kids in the big room...

Taking photos with Santa Playing in the snow (snow machine) Singing Christmas carols Visiting with Santa's elves Dancing in confetti

Check out the new 5pm Saturday Night Service first, then have a night out, or stay and celebrate with us!

Changing the way people view the Church

2201 Lake Herman Rd, Benicia • 707.747.5855 • Northgateweb.com 4 • Benicia Magazine

Blown Glass • Jewelry • Wall Art • Gift Items Celebrating 15 Years in Business

Per fect

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PART Y WEAR Glass jewelry for the holidays!

Gallery Hours Sun-Tues 11-5, Wed-Fri 11-7, Sat 10-7

109 East F Street , Benicia, CA 94510

707.748.1336

www.lindsayartglass.com

Christmas Carol Teas

Thursday, December 12th & Thursday December 19th at 4:00pm Melody Choral of Vallejo will sing Christmas classics while you enjoy Traditional Afternoon Tea

$35 per person, including tax and gratuity Call for reservations 707-746-5293

Camellia Tea Room

Featuring our pleated fabric collection Fits all sizes, shapes and stages

Shop Local - support local business

Vanité Couture Distinctive Women's Fashions

828 First Street • Downtown Benicia 707.746.5293 www.camelliatearoom.com Open Tues-Sun 11am-5pm in Dec

A wonderful place for gifts

Open Every Day 700 First St., Benicia, CA 94510

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374 First Street • Downtown Benicia

707.742.4294

BeniciaMagazine.com • 5

Be

Benicia

Home, gift, jewelry with a dash of fun

magazine

Be

Be

Be

Celebrating our 9th Year

Benicia Editor Jeanne Steinmann

magazine Graphic Design Margaret Bowles

Web Specialist Yarrow Sweningsen

Benicia

Greeting Cards Letter & number art Birdhouses Lanterns Reclaimed wood & metal items Tableware & textiles Chalkboards Decorative bins & boxes Journals & notebooks

Special Projects Advertising Coordinator Joey Baker magazine Contributors Diane Gardner Bob Ecker Beth Steinmann Christina Strawbridge Sue Sumner-Moore

Urban Notions

Photographer Jerry Bowles Malcolm Slight

611 First Street, Downtown Benicia • 707.853.8159

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screen TV's • signed sports memorabilia • NFL ticket • 22 beers on tap

6 • Benicia Magazine

dinner entrees • delectable desserts • locally grown produce • 33 large

ays rotating • specialty cocktails • wine & extensive selection of bott alw

beer • appetizers • soup & salads • sandwiches • burgers • pizza • led

Editorial deadlines The 1st of the month prior to the issue month

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

Contact Us 707.853.8159, 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 © 2013, 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, 611 First Street, Benicia, CA 94510. 707.853.8159, beniciamagazine.com.

B

B

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

A Consignment Boutique Stylish clothing and accessories for women 117 East F Street Downtown Benicia 707.361.5097

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 7

Benicia Magazine DECEMBER VOLUME 9 ISSUE 2

Features

16 Local restaurateurs share go-to appetizer recipes 18

Meet Benicia Magazine’s contributing writers

20 Holiday gifts that are sure to delight

Departments 10 From the Editor 19

Currents Take a poem, leave a poem at Benicia’s Poem Homes

22 Fashionista

24 Interview

8 • Benicia Magazine

Christina says goodbye to her long-time home at the former Benicia Public Library Judie Donaldson, retired educator, recently returned from a year in Thailand

26 Downtown Map 28 Arsenal Map 30 Calendar of Events

Cover photo by Jerry Bowles This page: Rustic Plaque, Joyous Spaces Photo by Jerry Bowles

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

707-745-7534 December 2013

$375,000 to 28 charities

Valero Distributes Annual Benefit for Children Grants

VOENA

FRIENDS OF BENICIA PUBLIC LIBRARY

BENICIA LITTLE LEAGUE

THE 2013 BENEFIT FOR CHILDREN GRANT RECIPIENTS ARE: Bay Area Crisis Nursery Benicia Community Action Council Benicia Education Foundation Benicia Historical Museum Benicia Little League Boy Scouts of America - Camp Cole

Boys & Girls Club of El Sobrante Camp Taylor Child Haven Children’s Music and Arts Foundation Continentals of Omega Boys & Girls Club Cordelia Tri-Valley Little League

The Benicia Veterans Memorial Building was the site of this year’s Benefit for Children grant presentations where 28 charities shared in $375,000 in grants from Valero. Refinery employees nominated the charities.

Since 2001, nearly $4 million dollars has been distributed by the Benicia refinery through this special program.

Valero’s sponsorship of the 2013 Valero Texas Open and Benefit for Children Golf Classic, held each spring, generates these charitable funds. Companies doing business with Valero help sponsor the golf events and funds are distributed in communities where Valero operates.

“This event is just one way Valero demonstrates its year-round corporate culture of supporting the communities, environment, and the people where we have operations,” said Vice President and General Manager John Hill. “In addition to distributing these grants, we held our first Valero Sporting Clays Invitational a few months ago where we raised $55,000 for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano’s Farm 2 Kids program.”

Hill added that refinery employees raised $435,000 for United Way of the Bay Area this fall, matched 50% by Valero, bringing the total to $652,500 for the local United Way.

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation East Bay College Fund Fighting Back Partnership Friends of Benicia Public Library Harbor House Horseplay Therapeutic Riding Center Junior Achievement Matt Garcia Foundation

Mission Solano Royal Family Kids Camps Solano Coalition for Better Health Vacaville Neighborhood Boys & Girls Club Vacaville Swim Club Vallejo Police Activities League Voena Wahiawa Kajukenbo Foundation

Refinery Completes VPP Star Site Recertification Audit The refinery successfully completed a refinery-wide safety audit during the week of September 23-27, moving the refinery toward its second recertification as a Star Site in Cal/OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program.

A team of eight auditors interviewed employees and contractors,

Fast Facts:

The refinery’s 24/7 phone number for questions or concerns about refinery operations is 745-7534.

reviewed and inspected safety documentation, and inspected refinery operations. At the closeout meeting, the audit team announced they intend to recommend to the Cal/OSHA leadership that the Valero Benicia Refinery continue in the Cal/OSHA Voluntary Protection Program. The official notification is expected in early 2014.

Safety First: Cooking is the leading cause of all winter

residential building fires, so maintain a properly rated fire extinguisher in your kitchen. (source: U.S. Fire Administration)

BeniciaMagazine.com • 9

From the Editor – Dec. 2013

Photo by Lisa Duncan

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

About this time eight years ago, we had just finished publishing our 2nd issue, which, until 2009, was known as Inside Benicia. Back then we printed 20 pages in an oversize newsprint format—quite a different product from today’s more upscale publication. I began thinking about the magazine’s evolution, which in some ways mirrors the evolution of our fair city.

Back in the 1990’s/early 2000’s, Benicia had an identity problem. The town was growing and changing, with families moving into Southampton’s new homes, but it was still known as a bedroom community and not much else. For a bit of context, this was before many downtown improvements had occurred: the First Street Green, the seawall, promenade and pier upgrades, the “Benicia Blue” lampposts and refuse containers; and before the historic clocks, historic markers, benches and bike racks were added. All this was capped off by the recent transformation of the intersection at First and Military.

My goal for the magazine has remained the same over the years: To help Benicians coalesce around a proud sense of identity, incorporating a different set of adjectives to reflect the cultural shift. While we honor and retain our descriptors of the past (“quaint” and “charming” come to mind), we have gained a level of refinement and sophistication. All the recent sprucing up has ushered a pride of place into our collective psyche. We seem to have developed a deeper appreciation of Benicia’s offerings.

Positioned smack in the middle of First Street, our staff has a perfect opportunity to join in conversation with residents and visitors, and the message is clear: There’s a shared love-fest for Benicia. People from all over the Bay tell us they would love to live here. Young professionals are moving in, and they are driving the demand for more shops, restaurants and downtown nightlife. And they are getting just that.

With Thanksgiving behind us, my own robust sense of gratitude lingers. I’m so grateful for the many readers who have stopped by the office to express their delight in the magazine. They let us know that they watch for each issue and read it cover to cover. We are particularly flattered by those of you who have saved every issue we’ve printed (that’s almost 100 issues, but who’s counting)! If success can be measured by reader feedback that we love where we live, then I have achieved my goal.

But we won’t rest there. As we roll into our 10th year of publishing, new ideas are percolating. A great big group hug to our loyal readers—your feedback is much appreciated, as are your story ideas and suggestions, keep them coming. Thanks also to our contributing writers (see their bios in this issue), photographers, the 7 very special people (Beth, Kat, Jerry, Joey, Margaret, Rise & Yarrow) who work on the print and digital magazine and, of course, to our wonderful advertisers.

Without these pillars of the business community we wouldn’t exist. Please support them—they are generously supportive of local causes, events and fundraisers. Wishing you all a heart full of gratitude during the holidays and a joyful 2014. See you next year!

Jeanne Steinmann 10 • Benicia Magazine

For the holidays,

shop Benicia Main Street's fundraising store for a variety of Benicia merchandise, See's Candies, and Downtown Dollars.

Perfect for holiday giving, Downtown Dollars are gift certificates available in $5 and $20 increments, accepted at over 50 merchants in Downtown Benicia.

For the entire month of December, with a purchase of $50 or more, get a free "I Love Benicia" reusable bag.

Extended holiday hours on weekdays from December 11-20, 9am-7:30pm.

Open weekends from 11am-4pm.

Holiday Open House

Benicia Main Street 90 First Street, Benicia 707.745.9791

Friday, December 6

First Street merchants along with Benicia Main Street host this ever-popular open house at the beginning of the holiday season with live entertainment, costumed carolers, and wagon rides from 6-9pm. At approximately 6:30pm at the foot of First Street view the spectacular lighting of the Christmas Tree.

Christmas Parade & Holiday Market Saturday, December 14

Join us for the annual Christmas Parade at 10am on First Street (between D Street and H Street) featuring local bands, dancers, and the much anticipated Santa Claus. The Holiday Market features handcrafted arts & crafts and gourmet items from 10am-3pm, located on First Street between B and D Streets.

www.BeniciaMainStreet.org

BeniciaMagazine.com • 11

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VOICES OF EVE ‘N ANGELS

Voices of the Season ~ Starry Night Sun Dec 8th 2013 Lincoln Theater 100 California Drive, Yountville 4:00PM lincolntheater.com Sun Dec 18 2013 Yoshi’s San Francisco 1330 Fillmore Street, SF 8:00PM yoshis.com

Sat Dec 21st 2013 Napa Valley Opera House 1030 Main Street, Napa 7:30PM nvoh.org

Experience an extraordinary seven-course meal at one of the most exciting places to eat in America as VOENA Choir perform their holiday repertoire in full Victorian costume. The matinee dinner includes top-rated wine pairings with each course.

The French Laundry Voena Fundraiser Please join us Thursday, Dec 5th 2013 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

voena.org 12 • Benicia Magazine Currents

Save Hundreds of dollars on most items

Hurry in Jan. 2nd!

All in-stock furniture on clearance at our 12,000 square foot Arsenal showroom!

January 2 – 31, 2013 www.ironhorsehome.com San Francisco Design Center Benicia Danville 990 Grant St., 707.747.1383 452 Hartz Ave., 925.314.9782 2 Henry Adams St., Ste 331 Tues-Sat 10-5, Sun 11-5, Tues-Sat 10-5, Sun 11-5, 415.525.3725 Mon-Fri 9-5, Closed Sat & Sun Closed Mon Closed Mon

Quality Gardening and Landscaping All Facets of Professional Gardening Service & Landscape Construction

qglinc.net

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4 • Benicia Magazine

BeniciaMagazine.com • 13

DON'T TOP TREES! Tree topping hurts trees & impacts home values

Topping is perhaps the most harmful pruning practice.

Topping: • Is a violation of the Benicia Tree Ordinance • Causes decay • Stresses a tree's health • Creates safety hazards • Is a high-maintenance pruning practice • Makes a tree unsightly and detracts from a home's landscape

Pre-schools at BUSD Year round AM/PM and Full day at all Elementary Sites Parent co-op Stepping Stones Call 707.747.8367 for more info

Don't top your trees, learn how to prune correctly. www.ci.benicia.ca.us, Parks & Community Services www.beniciatrees.org

Benicia Unified School District • 350 East K Street, Benicia, CA

707.747.8300 • www.beniciaunified.org

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Voted Best of Solano for 8 years & Best of the Bay for 3 years

1768 Broadway - Vallejo, CA 94589

645-0734

Celebrating with a

Candlelight Service Experience a celebration of the Christmas Story with beautiful music, candlelit carols, opportunities to help those in need and more.

Tuesday, December 24, 7pm and 11pm Candlelight Service

Northgate offers year round programs and services for the entire community Youth: birth to 5th grade Tweens: 6th to 8th grade Teens: 9th to 12th grade Young adults Adults For more information please visit our comprehensive website that offers videos, blogs, podcasts, events calendar and more.

2201 Lake Herman Road, Benicia • 707.747.5855 • Northgateweb.com

BeniciaMagazine.com • 15

Easy Holiday

APPETIZERS

from Benicia’s Restaurateurs

JAVA POINT CAFÉ, SOLEDAD "CHOLY" ALBERTO An easy and delicious appetizer that guests will love.

Serves 8-10 Stuffed Mushrooms 15-18 button mushrooms, stems removed 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs 3 tbsp Italian parsley, chopped fine 2 cloves fresh garlic, chopped fine 1/2 cup grated Jack cheese 1/3 cup olive oil 16 • Benicia Magazine

Combine the breadcrumbs, garlic, 2 tbsp cheese, 2 tbsp parsley, salt and pepper with half of the olive oil. Sauté in a pan over medium-low heat for 5 minutes. Spoon the mixture into the mushroom caps. Drizzle lightly with remaining olive oil. Bake in a casserole dish or baking sheet at 325 degrees for 20 minutes or so until filling is golden. Garnish with remaining parsley and serve.

SAILOR JACKS, MAYNARD OESTREICH These flaky little delights, a holiday favorite of Chef Maynard’s, will fool your guests into thinking you cooked all night, but they can be assembled and cooked in under 30 minutes.

Serve with store bought salsa. Serves 20

CAMELLIA TEA ROOM, SALLY YATES Simple, elegant and delicious, this easy recipe is a treat for the senses that will wow your guests. Makes 8 pieces.

Pear Pancetta Crisps with Honey Goat Cheese

ROOKIES SPORTS BAR & GRILL, JOEL SCOTT JOHNSON Try this recipe from Rookie’s chef Johnson—it’s a great accompaniment to cold beer, a glass of wine or party beverages. Fresh Dungeness crab in season makes all the difference.

Serves 15-20

Spicy Meat Empanadas 1/2 lb

ground pork 1/2 lb beef chorizo 1 medium yellow onion, diced 1 medium carrot (peeled), diced fine 1 tsp chili flakes 1/2 cup raisins 1 tbsp chopped garlic 4 each frozen puff pastry sheets 1 egg blended with a few drops of water Remove puff pastry from freezer; preheat oven to 375 degrees. In heavy pre-heated skillet over medium heat, crumble chorizo and pork, breaking up large pieces with wooden spoon. When mixture starts throwing off fat, add onion, carrot, chili flake, and garlic.

Continue to cook until onions and carrots are translucent and pork and chorizo are cooked through (about 20 minutes). Add raisins and cook 2-3 minutes. Drain fat through a colander and cool. Unroll puff pastry and cut into 3 inch squares, brush two sides with a scant amount of egg mixture. Spoon a heaping tablespoon of meat filling in center folding corner-tocorner, turnover style. At this point they can be made ahead and frozen. Place assembled turnovers on greased cookie sheet, brush tops with remaining egg wash and cook 12-16 minutes or until golden. Serve hot with Mojostyle salsa (puree 1/2 of salsa mix, add back into the chunky stuff with lime juice and garlic to taste.)

12 thin slices of pancetta 1 fresh pear 2 oz goat cheese 1/4 cup honey Fresh thyme, chopped Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Place the pancetta on foil-lined cookie sheet. Crisp pancetta in oven for 15 minutes or until done to desired crispness. Combine goat cheese and honey, set aside. Slice pear into 1/4" thick slices lengthwise. Place crispy pancetta on top of pear slice, top with a dollop of honey-goat cheese mixture, and garnish with fresh thyme.

LUCCA BAR & GRILL, MICHAEL ROBERTSON A lovely, rustic yet sophisticated dish that’s a sure-fire crowd-pleaser is also a nice treat for friends and family. Serves 8-10 Smoked Salmon Rillettes 16 oz smoked salmon (minced) 1 bunch chives (minced) 1 shallot (minced) 2/3 cup crème fraiche (whipped) 1/2 lemon w/zest Salt & pepper (to taste) 3 tbsp olive oil 1 rustic baguette Fold the first five ingredients together, add salt & pepper to taste. Slice baguette on the bias, brush with olive oil and bake at 350 degrees until golden brown. Top with the salmon mixture.

Dungeness Crab & Artichoke Dip 1 lb whipped cream cheese 1 lb marinated artichoke hearts 4 oz fresh Dungeness crab 1 tbsp minced garlic 1 tsp chopped oregano Zest of 1 lemon, finely grated Soften the cream cheese to room temperature and add to a food processer. Add remaining ingredients. Pulse for 1 minute or until it’s completely blended and stir to ensure mixture is smooth. Add salt & pepper to taste. Place equal amounts in oven in a safe baking/serving dish and cover with foil. Cook in the oven at 225 degrees for 15 minutes. Serve with warm, sliced sourdough.

THE RELLIK TAVERN, TOM HAMILTON With built-in holiday colors, this is an impressive party staple with a twist on the Italian classic. Pick up your favorite olive oil and a good bottle of balsamic glaze (instead of balsamic vinegar), and you will impress your guests. Serves 6-8 Fresh Caprese Salad 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp balsamic glaze 2 large sliced fresh tomatoes 2 tubs fresh Mozzarella cheese in water (Bocconcini balls or discs from the deli) Fresh basil leaves, sliced thin Salt & pepper to taste Wooden skewers (optional)

Drizzle a decorative plate with olive oil.

(Creativity counts!) Arrange alternating layers of sliced tomato and Mozzarella across the plated olive oil. Zig-zag the balsamic glaze back and forth across the cheese and tomatoes. Garnish with julienne-cut fresh basil, fresh ground pepper and freshly ground sea salt to taste. Chelsea, Rellik’s chef, likes to skewer all of the above (but use cherry tomatoes instead of sliced, and small balls of Mozzarella). Brush with olive oil and balsamic glaze, and voila! Perfection.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 17

We are fortunate indeed to have such a talented group of contributing writers, whose compelling stories delight readers each month. Hats off to their professionalism and creativity.

CONTRIBUTORS Sue Sumner-Moore began conducting and writing interviews for Benicia Magazine in 2006 after working for 27 years as a reporter and editor for newspapers in the Bay Area and the Hudson Valley in New York. A Benicia resident since 1988, Sue, 57, and her husband, Scott, raised their two children here.

She is a big fan of the Giants and NPR.

With a BA in journalism from CSU Sacramento, Adriene Rockwell wants her writing to make a difference. Previous to her work with Benicia Magazine, she was a feature writer for Sacramento Magazine and the Pacific Sun Weekly. Adriene, 47, has also worked for 20-plus years as a development professional and grant writer for a number of worthy non-profit causes.

Sue Sumner-Moore Bob Ecker is a Napa-based freelance writer/photographer producing destination wine content, travel and restaurant/ foodie stories. His articles have appeared in magazines such as Decanter, Wine Enthusiast, Modern Luxury Publications, Discover and San Diego, as well as many newspapers including the San Francisco Chronicle, LA Times and the Napa Valley Register. Ecker, 53, enjoys the nexus between travel, wine and dining and has competed as an actual Racing Sausage.

Bob Ecker

Adriene Rockwell

Beth Steinmann

Diane Gardner is a full-time writer and editor. Her work has appeared in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, in other compilation books and in magazines. She adores mysteries, valiantly attempts oil painting, and can’t keep a single houseplant alive. When not exploring local street fairs, Diane, 41, can be found at home with her husband enjoying their view of the Carquinez Bridge.

Christina Strawbridge has a lifelong passion for all things fashion, which she shares with readers in Fashionista, her monthly column. Constant global travel provides Christina with unique insight into the history and culture of many nations. Christina, 61, is also a member of the Benicia City Council and owns Christina S women’s clothing & accessories boutique.

Diane Gardner 18 • Benicia Magazine

Beth Steinmann, an alternative health provider in Santa Rosa, California, grew up in Benicia, writing and drawing on furniture, walls, herself, her shoes, clothing—anywhere a pen could travel—a literary graffiti artist. With a BA in Comparative Literature from UC Berkeley, her illustrations were chosen for a unique art book published by UC. Beth, 29, writes occasional feature stories and wellness columns for Benicia Magazine.

Christina Strawbridge

Lobster Tuesdays Prime Rib Wednesdays Bistro 3 course dinner Thursday

from Benicia’s Poem Homes

By Diane Gardner Cute little boxes decorated with a cartoon house can be spied all around Benicia. A peek inside reveals a literary treat: Free poems for anyone to take—delightful morsels of works by Benicia’s own creative writers. These are Benicia’s “poem homes.”

Benicia’s former poet laureate, Ronna Leon, established the poem homes in 2010, and the program has since thrived. It publishes over 70 to 80 poems per edition, released two to three times per year.

Since multiple copies of each poem are placed inside the poem homes, the program distributes between 5,000 and 6,000 pages of poems annually.

“I like making the poems available to folks in the community who might not otherwise get the chance to read a poem and discover something surprising or inspiring or thought provoking, or all three,” explains Jady Montgomery, a volunteer who oversees the program.

“I also like making the homes available to poets. For some it is a way to put their work out in public for the first time, take a chance, test the waters, so-to-speak. For other seasoned or published poets, it's a way to make a contribution to the literary arts of our community.”

Sponsored by the First Tuesday Poetry Group, the program welcomes poets with all levels of experience. Poets submit their work via e-mail to poetryinbenicia@gmail.com. Once accepted, the poems are printed by Paper Tiger Printing for the next edition.

Renee Jordan of Jordan Real Estate sponsors the printing costs.

Through this simple process, poetry becomes more accessible to Benicians—readers and poets.

New contributor, Jen Bougher, tried it. She’s written privately most of her life, and is currently taking writing classes. One class in particular inspired her to make her work more public. “This was a way to see how my work is received outside of my friends and family,” she explained.

On the other end, readers’ lives are enriched. “The idea that we could quietly look at something and read it for ourselves and experience it in our hearts … Poetry does this. Poetry often makes people have a second of stillness, a second to consider the deeper meaning of life,” says Leon.

from Benicia’s Poem Homes

Sailor Jacks Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Purchase one lunch or dinner entrée in December & receive one complimentary dessert with this ad* *expires 12/31/13. One discount per person, no cash value. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Sailor Jacks • Open Every Day • 123 First Street 707.746.8500

Benicia Grill 5th Year Anniversary!

Open every day 6am—3pm Free Breakfast Entrée Mon-Sat only, 6am-3pm Buy one breakfast entrée, & receive the 2nd of equal or lesser value

CURRENT

Breakfast, Seafood, Salads, Steak, Pasta, Wraps, Flatbread

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• Southampton Community Park • Benicia High School • Benicia Public Library • Jordan Real Estate on First Street • Avant Garden (Benicia Community Garden, First & D St. location) • Benicia Marina (near the yacht club) • Benicia Community Action Council

ust

(subject to change)

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With purchase of 2 drinks. Up to $8 value with coupon. Not valid with any other offer. One coupon per table. Exp. 12/31/13

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4760 E. Second St., Benicia BeniciaMagazine.com • 19

Special Holiday Gifts for Everyone on Your List

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1

2

4 5 6

7 8

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1 l Hand-blown glass shot glasses, $35 each, Lindsay Art Glass, LindsayArtGlass.com 2 l 24-Piece DJECO kid’s puzzle, 16” X 12”, ages 3+, $16.99, Book Shop Benicia, BookShopBenicia.com 3 l Luxurious Italian Sfizio wool scarf $90, and cap $70, Be Chic Boutique, Be-Chic-Boutique.com 4 l Effie's Heart elegant scarf $60, matching fingerless gloves $54, Christina S, ChristinaSBenicia.com 5 l Handmade concrete planters with drought tolerant succulents $15-125, Joyous Spaces, JoyousSpaces.com 6 l Men’s silk ties, “Rome,” “Chicago” and “Paris,” $60. Additional styles available, Studio 41, Studio41.com 7 l Votivo aromatic candle “Forgotten Sage” and “Red Currant,” 6.8 oz. $26.95, Wellness Wisdom, WellnessWisdom.us 8 l Recycled bike chain desk clocks, 6 colors, $24, Urban Notions, facebook.com/UrbanNotions 9 l Cinnamon Plum tea $8.50, teapot $24.98, Camellia Tea Room, CamelliaTeaRoom.com 20 • Benicia Magazine

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Full-line pet store Professional dog & cat grooming Do it yourself pet wash 1202 East 5th Street, Benicia 707.745.5016 • www.FeathererPet.com

BeniciaMagazine.com • 21

Out with the Old…

By Christina Strawbridge This month Scott and I have been married for 42 years. We obviously married very, very young and have been on an adventure ever since that snowy December afternoon in 1971. We have moved 16 times since, including once across country from Indiana to Southern California, and then to Benicia in 1985. Of all the houses we have owned, the current one has really gotten under my skin.

The house, formerly the Benicia Public Library, was built by the City of Benicia in 1956 on land donated by Edna Clyne Leary. Edna's grandson Neal Leary lives in the gorgeous Victorian next door and has preserved it as a showplace of the era.

The "new" Benicia Public Library was dedicated on May 17, 1956 with much fanfare. Representatives from the state, county and city were present along with members of the Benicia Parlors Native Sons and Native Daughters of The Golden West. Prior to its new location, the library occupied 600 sq. ft in the State Capitol building down the street. At that time there were 691 books, which increased to 5,000 when they made the move. The construction cost for the 3,600 sq. ft. structure was $24,735.00, built without taxpayer money. The story of how the library relocated to its new home is truly Benicia lore. A bucket line was formed from the Capitol to 144 East G Street, and the 691 books were passed from person to person until the new library was filled.

The interior of the library building has changed dramatically from the days of dropping the off the boys to check out books and

833 First Street Benicia, CA 94510 707.334.1220 cell 707.745.2600 office 707.746.6349 fax www.birnbaumrealty.com

do reports, and circling to find a coveted parking place. Our kitchen sits in the old book checkout and return area. The original wood counter with a return slat is still there, with inkpad stains remaining in one of the drawers. The children's reading room is now my office, where the glass partitions that kept the children's voices contained continues to give privacy while keeping the space light-filled and open. The back of the house, formally the adult reading and research area, is the living room and master bedroom.

It’s a house for entertaining, and besides holiday gatherings for family and friends, we’ve had campaign kickoffs and fundraisers for local non-profits. This year we hosted the 20th anniversary of the newest Benicia Public Library, built in 1993. More than 100 friends gathered to toast the vision of several generations who understood the importance of an accessible place to satisfy the needs of a growing community.

We recently sold the house and will be moving to a new location, hopefully downtown. I will miss this large open space with its vaulted ceilings that are perfect for the tallest of Christmas trees.

We won’t forget the wonderful times we have shared with close friends and curious residents who were given a spontaneous tour.

But moving can be liberating and a cleansing experience. Do I really to need to keep 100 copies of Vogue magazine? Out with the old and in with the new! It will be difficult to top living here but with some luck it's a move around the corner and a new adventure.

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Add Pizazz to the Season with Bob’s Top Ten

Champagne Pairings

By Bob Ecker

Corn Nuts: I discovered Champagne paired with this curious crunchy snack food by a Sommelier in Paris. It works remarkably well and has been my go-to ever since.

Enjoy with Veuve Clicquot’s classic Yellow Label Brut, it works every time.

Foie Gras: A las not in California but in the rest of the world, the Umami Rich Liver Pâté is a perfect match with fine Champagne. Try Grand Anne 2004 by Drappier. Delicious.

Thai food: T he spicier, the better. Clean cold bubblies, preferably a Blanc de Blancs or Rosé, makes excellent combos with tasty Thai cuisine. A fine Moet & Chandon Imperial will satisfy.

Pringles: T here’s something about the unusual, salty, artificial nature of Pringles that goes great with Champagne. Don’t believe me—try it! Pair with some zesty “Bolly,” i.e. Champagne Bollinger.

Lobster: N othing tastes better with a dish like Lobster Thermidor than a brilliant glass of Champagne (Google Julia Child’s recipe) and a lusty bottle of Krug’s Grande Cuvée.

Sushi: B eautifully prepared sushi makes a fine marriage with a good Rosé from G.H. Mumm—a terrific match.

Fossier Biscuits Roses de Reims: L ike little ladyfingers, these rose-colored biscuits offer a delicate complement to hearty bubbly. Some dip these Fossier treats (around since 1690) in champagne itself. Sample with Pommery’s bold and elegant Cuvée Louise.

Smoked salmon on toast points: H igh quality smoked salmon like those from Scotland or Ireland pairs gorgeously with a good bubbly. Drink with a Delamotte Blanc de Blancs.

Crème Brûlée: T his classic French dessert is a natural with bubbly, preferably an ample bodied wine such as Tattinger Brut NV.

Chocolate Fondant: Try this dessert with Cuvée William Deutz Millesime. Yummy x 2.

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Interview with Judie Donaldson Photo by Malcolm Slight

Did you get to work with the women’s group in Chiang Mai?

By Sue Sumner-Moore Judie Donaldson’s adventure began with a radical thought.

While reading women’s memoirs, she said to herself, “Wouldn’t it be great to get your head out of a book and go and learn firsthand about women in other places in the world?”

A retired educator, Judie is drawn to understanding women’s status around the world. She’s read about 125 women’s memoirs so far and plans to continue to read even more.

But in the fall of 2011, a different way of learning captured her imagination. Get out in the world. Go see how women live in other places. The pull of this idea convinced her to put aside her normally cautious ways.

She decided to spend a year living on her own in Thailand. A little research and a certain amount of serendipity lead to the choice of destinations.

She wanted to volunteer with an organization serving women, and found one in Chiang Mai, a city of about 175,000 in Thailand. She read online that many world travelers said Thailand was their favorite country. She also wanted to expand her Buddhist practices. And one of her daughter’s friends offered Judie a sublet in Chiang Mai. “The stars all seemed to align,” she says.

“There was nothing analytical about my decision. It was all intuitive.” She left in June, 2012 and returned this summer. While overseas, she also visited Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Burma and Nepal.

Judie, 75, lived in Pennsylvania for 10 years before moving to Benicia almost four years ago to be near family here. She served on the city Arts and Culture Commission before leaving for Thailand and is looking for the right volunteer opportunity now that she is home.

Before retiring, she taught and was an administrator at New York University and the University of San Francisco in programs designed for adult learners. “I believe good education is transformative,” she says.

24 • Benicia Magazine Interview

The books I read told me I probably could volunteer with the nonprofit, but what I learned was I couldn’t. My visa wouldn’t let me work for pay or as a volunteer. That was a disappointment. …

So I interviewed people at nonprofits serving Thai women. Most were founded and run by expats. There were many groups helping women who are homeless, who want to learn English, or need educational support, both scholarships and tutoring.

How did you prepare for leaving your home for a year?

The big deal was getting a visa. I was on a one-year retirement visa. I also wanted a visa to visit Burma, and that was a big deal because they were just beginning to welcome people into the country.

I had all kinds of questions: How will I handle money? Do they have ATMs? What kind of insurance do I need? Am I going to rent out my place here? What all do I need to do before I go? The post office will only forward your mail for 60 days, so I had to file change-of-address forms to send my mail to my daughter.

What shots do I need? How will I deal with medical care over there?

I read and read and read, trying to learn every detail of preparation needed. I learned Thailand is a developing country, so there are ATMs there. I learned that in Burma, they won’t take credit cards, only crisp American dollar bills.

Did you meet your goal of strengthening your Buddhist practice?

Yes, but not in the ways I thought I would. I thought I would get someone to teach me more about Buddhism, but it turns out that not many Thai Buddhists are good at being able to teach people from other cultures. I did find one, but I didn’t find a personal teacher. Instead, I went to meetings – they are called Sangha. I went to the Green Papaya Sangha in Chiang Mai, and I attended five Buddhist meditation retreats that ranged from five to 10 days each. Most of them were silent. One was in Nepal.

How did the year abroad change the way you see the world?

I think that my worldview is expanded in a very generalized way. Our way is not a better way. Our whole culture teaches us that, but it’s not a better way. It’s just a different way.

I could see an alternative value system at work. The difference between being a tourist and living there is immense.

Has it changed your everyday life here in Benicia?

I’m embarrassed to say how easily I slipped back into my life of privilege.

But it changed my way of thinking. I see the world differently. I’m careful about making assumptions, making judgments because of one little bit of info in the media.

What do you see as your role as a citizen of Benicia?

I definitely believe it takes a village.

It takes every citizen to make a quality community that serves everyone.

I’m ready to organize my life here in Benicia and find volunteer opportunities because community service is important to me. I want to find something that’s a good fit.

What was your transition to Thailand like?

The first thing that came to me when I got to Chiang Mai was that it was hot.

I turned on the air conditioning in the bedroom and thought, “How am I going to survive this?” But after the first couple of days, I just used fans.

Learning my neighborhood was my number one priority—that and learning to get around on the red trucks. They are like a group taxi. I walked a lot. I had flashcards that I carried to communicate with people.

What’s next for you?

I want to go to a Muslim country, though I may not spend a full year there.

Maybe three months. That would work for me. Maybe next year.

I’d like to find a volunteer opportunity working with immigrants or refugees. I want to continue to learn and read more memoirs.

See the expanded interview online at beniciamagazine.com.

Fresh Cut Trees in Benicia!

Opening Day Friday 11/29 sh Fre t!

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Fresh Cut Trees Many Sizes / Varieties Open everyday 10 am - 7 pm BHM at the Camel Barns 2060 Camel Rd., Benicia

(Take Military East towards the Arsenal, left on Adams St. then left on park Rd.) Joint Fundraiser for Benicia Historical Museum & Genesis House 707-745-5435 • www.beniciahistoricalmuseum.org 707-552-3395 • www.genesis-house.com

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707.677.3722 BeniciaMagazine.com • 25

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A. Judith Judson, 310 Military West WE ST B. S. Thompson, Farmers Ins., 310 Military West, Ste. D JS T. C. Julie Parsons Certified Massage, 310 Military West, Ste. A 2 EA 1. Tosch Dental, 118 West K Street ST JS 3 W T. 2. Estey Real Estate, 935 First Street ES 4 TI ST 3. Adobe 2nd Chance Thrift Store, 929 First Street .

4. Nine O Seven Grill, 907 First Street 26 EA ST 5. RPM Mortgage, 376 First St. IS 28 W T. ES T 6 6. Camellia Tea Room, 828 First Street H ST .

7. Bookshop Benicia, 636 First Street 8. State Farm Insurance, 560 First St., Ste. C103 EA Be S C ni 9 TH W apit cia 9. Spotless Carpet Cleaning, 800 First Street, Ste. A ST ES o .

TG l 10. Studio 41, 700 First Street ST 24 .

10 11. Sandoval’s, 640 First Street 12 Ch am C E AS om be 12. Fiber-Frolics, 637 First Street m ro 11 T G S WE erce f 15 T. 14. Lindsay Art Glass, 109 East F Street ST 7 F S 16 15. Advanced Mortgage SVF, 615 First Street T. 14 16. Urban Notions, 611 First Street 17 EA ST 17. Find Your Fabulous, 117 East F Street FS WE T. 8 ST 18. Charlie’s Attic, Tannery Bldg, 129 First Street ES T. 19. Dudikoff Insurance, 159 East D Street 20. Rookies Sports Bar & Grill, 321 First Street EA ST ES 21. Christina S Fashion Destination, 370 First Street T. 22. Sailor Jacks Restaurant, 123 First Street 23. Benicia Main Street, 90 First Street WE 20 ST 5 EAST 24. Dr. Tom Campbell, 164 East H Street CS DS 19 T. 27 T. 26. Kryss's Pathways to Healing, 841 First Street 21 27. Vanite' Couture, 374 First Street 28. Birnbaum Realty, 833 First Street

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Julie’s Gift of Massage…the gift you give yourself Julie Parsons, CMT - 707. 297.1371 Mention this ad and receive 1/2 off a second massage. Expires 11/27/2013

Mexican Food

310 Military West, Suite A, Benicia • juliesgiftofmassage.com

640 First Street • 707.746.7830

CHARLIE’S ATTIC

Benicia Golf Association

Tannery Bldg, 129 First St., Benicia • 707.205.6960

To find out more call Dale Thorne, 707.745.4852

BeniciaGolf.org

Collectibles-Antiques-Music Consignment and eBay drop-off

Dudikoff Insurance Agency

Real Estate doesn’t have to be this painful!

Planning, Products, & Services

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Residential & New Home Sales; Property Management 707.745.0759 www.judsonandcompany.com

Fiber-Frolics Specialty Yarns and Classes Giovanna Sensi-Isolani, fiber artist

637 First Street, Benicia • 707.747.YARN(9276) fiber-frolics.com

Free Pıcture with

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Sunday Sunday 12/15 12/15 and and Wednesday Wednesday 12/18 12/18 6pm-8pm 6pm-8pm

Buy 3 or more Large or XL pizzas and get

any 12” or larger pizza Dine-in, Take out or Delivery Expires 12/31/13

www.farmersagent.com/gdudikoff

Farmers Insurance Group

Samuel L. Thompson, Agency CA Lic. # 0502825 310 Military West, Ste D, Benicia

Office 707.853.5800 E-Fax 888.501.7219

Sthompson1@farmersagent.com

We've Moved!

636 First Street M-S 10-8, Sun 10-6 707.747.5155 bookshopbenicia.com

Kryss's Pathways to Healing Facials K Reiki K Waxing All natural skin care products

Kristen Cote, Licensed Esthetician & Reiki Master 841 First Street 707.225.2199Kkrysspathwaystohealing.org

Steve McClure

560 First St., Ste C103, Benicia

707.745.0848

www.stevemcclure.net

Dine-in, Take out or Delivery Expires 12/31/13

72 Solano Sq., Benicia Sun-Thurs 11-9 • Fri-Sat 11-10 Dine-in, Pick-up or Delivery

159 East D Street, Suite A, Benicia • P: 707.746.7395 • F: 707.747.6814

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER TUE-SUN 8am-9pm Not valid with any other offer.

Expires 12/31/13

BeniciaMagazine.com • 27

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A. Buck Factory Outlet, 4680 E. 2nd Street B. Affordable Quality Cabinets, 4852 E. 2nd Street C. Benicia Historical Museum, 2060 Camel Road D. Capitol Glass Co., Inc. 5000 E. 2nd St. Ste. H

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E. Arts Benicia, 991 Tyler St., #114 F. Benicia Plumbing, 265 W. Channel Court 2. Fat Shafts Archery, 3001 Bayshore Road #9 3. Gizzi & Reep, 940 Adams Street, Ste. A 4. Avanti Photography, 932 Grant Street

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DANVILLE

Parviz Hypnotherapy & Holistic Center 940 Adams Street, Ste. P Benicia, 707.655.7540 parvizhypnotherapy.com

415.525.3725

Capitol Glass Co., Inc.

Your One Stop Glass Shop Specializing in showers, windows and mirrors 5000 East Second St., Ste H, Benicia 707.745.4570 • capitolglassbenicia.com

Michael Trahan • Interior Design www.michaeltrahan.com 707.748.1080

3001 Bayshore Road #9, Benicia 707.745.0447 • Fatshaftsarchery.com

Benicia Magazine October Benicia Magazine Avalon RV-Revised3a.ai 1 10/10/2013 11:26:12 PM

SAN FRANCISCO

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Visit ironhorsehome.com or facebook.com/ironhorsehome.

Indoor Range and Pro Shop

Wishes our readers the happiest of holidays and a joyous 2014

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Repair or Replace • Water - Gas - Sewer Garbage Disposal • Drain Cleaning • Water Heaters Video Camera • Slab Leaks • Free Estimates

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Best of 2009, 2010, 2011 & 2012

BeniciaMagazine.com • 29

2013

Calendar of Events 12/1-12/5 Downtown Holiday Shopping Spree

12/6 Holiday Open House 6-9pm

12/1 & 12/8 19th Annual Teddy Bear Tea 10:30am, 1 & 3:30pm

12/7-12/21 Botanic Garden Volunteers 9:30-11:30am

Shopping Spree drawing—$500 in Downtown Dollars Beniciamainstreet.org 707-745-9791

Special holiday tea, $47 per person Camellia Tea Room, 828 First Street Camelliatearoom.org 707.746.5293

12/1-12/24 Christmas Tree Lot 10am-8pm Fresh cut trees, wreaths, garland Noble fir, Grand fir and Douglas fir 2060 Camel Rd beniciahistoricalmuseum.org 707.745.5435

12/2 Food For Thought Book Club 7-8pm Read the book and join in the discussion 150 East L St Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

12/4 Wednesday Night Ramble 7pm

North Bay All Stars hosts a gathering of musical friends Empress Theatre, 330 Virginia Street, Vallejo EmpressTheatre.org 707.552.2400

12/4-12/22 Arts Benicia new exhibit, Gems II 12-5pm An exhibition of small works, Thurs-Sun 991 Tyler Street, Suite 114 Artsbenicia.org 707.747.0131

12/5 Lawyers at the Library 5pm Free 20-minute consultations 150 East L St Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343 30 • Benicia Magazine Calendar

Merchants offer beverages and treats and show off their holiday goods Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

Volunteers gather at Forrest Deaner Botanic Garden December 7, 14, 21 Hwy 780 at Columbus Parkway 707.980.4416

12/7-12/21 Capitol & Fischer-Hanlon House

Fischer-Hanlon tours Sundays & 2nd Saturdays 1, 2 & 3pm Capitol self-guided tours Thurs 12-4pm, Fri-Sun 10am-5pm Reserve tours 707.745.3670 115 West G Street, Benicia 707.745.3385

12/14

Christmas Parade & Holiday Market 10am-3pm Marching bands, dancers, Santa Arts & crafts, food First and D Streets Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

12/14 Friends of the Library Book Sale 10am-4pm Old and new books for sale Benicia Library basement, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

Scan for more listings

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Tosch Dental

Feel at home—even in the dental chair!

Proudly serving Benicia families for over 25 years.

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• Relaxed and comfortable environment

707.745.2130 l www.toschdental.com BeniciaMagazine.com • 31

In 2007 we used AQCC to do our kitchen remodel and were so pleased with the quality of the cabinets and their staff, that we chose them again when we remodeled our master bedroom, closet and bath in 2012. We enjoyed the personality and professionalism of all the people at AQCC and consider as friends, Allan, Susy and Mary Ann, who were all delightful to work with. —Lee & Mary

Receive a $150 gift certificate to Romancing the Home with the purchase of a complete kitchen

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Open Mon. - Fri. 9-5 weekends & evenings by appointment Contractor's License # 687979