Benicia Magazine July 2012

Contemporary policing at Benicia PD Accessing local art at three Benicia galleries The latest homesteading trend— backyard chicken coops POSTAL CUSTOMER ***** ECR WSS *****

ECRWSS PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PORTLAND OR PERMIT NO. 2160 July Ben Mag vol7 v9.indd 1

Volume 7 Issue 9 July 2012

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The Fifth Annual

m ttoo 88p ullyy 2288 -- 1111aam ,, JJu y y a pm a d m d r r u u t t SSaa m ttoo 66::3300p JJu ullyy 2299 -- 1111aam , y , pm y a m a d d n n u SSu • Two day, family-friendly event • Downtown Benicia at First & East B Streets • Top jazz musicians performing • Fine art marketplace, gourmet foods, wine & beer • Children’s art & activity area

Saturday, July 28

Daily General Admission:

11:30-12:45 11:15-2:30 3:00-4:15 4:45-6:00 6:30-8:00

$8 Adults $5 Seniors (65+) Children under 12 free with paid adult

The Jazzschool The Dewayne Pate Quintet Marcella & Friends Jazz Komradz Kat Parra Latin World Ensemble

Sunday, July 29 11:30-12:45 1:15-2:30 3:30-4:15 5:00-6:30

The Mel Martin Band Adam Theis and Subharmonics Akira Tana and the Secret Agent Men Contemporary Jazz Orchestra

Weekend Pass $12 Adults Event sponsors: Benicia Main Street, DBI Beverage, ABC Music Corporate sponsors: City of Benicia, Valero Refining Company CA, Allied Waste Management Services

www.beniciamainstreet.org For more info call 707.745.9791 With this ad, buy one ticket and get one FREE! 4 • Benicia Magazine

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FOUNDED 1922

Celebrating

90 Years!

Pedrotti Ace Hardware 830 Southampton Rd. Benicia, CA 94510 (707) 745-NUTS (6887) 33_117426_0512

BeniciaMagazine.com • 5

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Benicia Magazine JULY VOLUME 7 ISSUE 9

14

16

20

12

14 16 18

Features Farm fresh eggs: chicken coops in Benicia backyards Making art accessible at three Benicia galleries Contemporary management at the Benicia Police Department

Departments 8

What's on the web

26

July Events

10

From the Editor

28

12

Currents Five fun beach reads to entertain in July Rockville Trails Park about to become a reality

Listening Featured musician Nick Phillips

29

Live Music Calendar

20

Travel-food-spirits Tapping into Benicia Beer

30

Fashionista Olympics prep and a Diamond Jubilee make for a fun visit to London

24

Interview Dan Healy, Solano County Superior Court Judge

25

Just for Kids

Cover photo: Benicia Police Chief Andrew Bidou, by Lisa Duncan Photos clockwise from top left: Benicia chicken coop, 621 Gallery, Rockville Park trail, Rookies Sports Bar, photos by Jerry Bowles

6 • Benicia Magazine

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Going Places?

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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.

The first book club* to respond will be featured in the August issue AND

win a $50 gift certificate to Bookshop Benicia

*Must be an established local book club, registered with Bookshop Benicia, to be featured or to win gift certificate.

To enter the contest, email editor@beniciamagazine.com!

Beni

Benicia

magazine

Celebrating our 8th Year

Benicia Editor Jeanne Steinmann

magazine

Graphic Design Margaret Bowles

Ben

B

Web Specialist Yarrow Sweningsen

Benicia

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

magazine

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

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

Contact Us 707.853.5226, Beniciamagazine.com editor@beniciamagazine.com Administration Office Manager Rise Goebel Copy Editor/proofreader Beth Steinmann Benicia Magazine is published monthly by Polygon Publishing, LLC Copyright © 2012, all rights reserved. Contents of Benicia Magazine cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed in Benicia Magazine editorial or advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, and may not reflect the opinion of Benicia Magazine’s management or publisher.

Subscriptions $18.00 per year. Benicia Magazine, P.O. Box 296, Benicia, CA 94510. 707.853.5226, beniciamagazine.com.

8 • Benicia Magazine

July Ben Mag vol7 v9.indd 8

Ben

6/19/12 9:22 AM

B

What makes a printing process Green?

Our printer incorporates many green practices far beyond state and federal guidelines. Sustainability in the pressroom includes:

“I will get to know you as a person.”

— Vegetable & soy inks — 100% paper waste recycled — Energy positive emissions systems — A plate-making system that virtually eliminates all chemicals

In-office Green Practices

Our doctors respect your opinion and take the time to answer your questions.

At the Center for Primary Care, our approach is quite the opposite of today’s take-a-numberand-do-what-you’re-told health care. That means small offices with no lines, easy parking and appointments when you need them.

• Pediatrics • Family practice • Internal medicine

We walk, bike or drive a hybrid vehicle to get to work and around town.

Paper waste is either recycled or cut up and reused as scrap paper. Envelopes and other business supplies are reused.

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

— Alina Hongsakaphadana, MD Family Practice

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Hong, please call our Green Valley office.

Fairfield (707) 646.5500 Green Valley (707) 646.3500 Vacaville (707) 624.7500 VacaValley Plaza (707) 624.8500

NorthBay.org

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Photo by Lisa Duncan

From the Editor Summer's Shimmer Get your calendars out, summer is in full swing and there’s a lot to do! Tradition dictates backyard cookouts and cold watermelon, and spending time outdoors with family and friends. As a young child living in the South, I used to love family get-togethers as day melted into night and like magic, the fireflies came out to entertain us with their shimmer. Benicia has its own brand of summer shimmer with three big events this month—the Freedom Festival Torchlight Parade July 3, Picnic in the Park and Fireworks July 4 and the annual Fine Arts and Jazz Festival July 28 & 29 (there’s a buy one, get one free ticket coupon for the event on page 4).

Hats off to Benicia Main Street for producing these events every year—it’s a big job. Twelve years ago, we flew to New York City for a family vacation, and the four of us stood smack in the middle of Times Square with half a million other folks packed in like sardines to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. We had a great time, but Benicia’s July 4 parade is second to none with its endless line of entrants ranging from local floats and performances to an antique fire truck.

In this issue you’ll find distinctly summer entertainments for all ages and stages—hiking, beer tasting, an art gallery primer, beach reads and the latest trend: backyard chicken farming. And in addition to our print calendars, check out the website where you’ll find an events calendar, arts calendar, live music calendar, Tahoe & Wine Country calendars and more. Play tourist in your own town—enjoy one of the many restaurants with alfresco dining. I missed a few while listing them in this column last month, but readers set the record straight (see below). Ease into the relaxed attitude of summer, and create some lasting memories.

Send your comments, suggestions and ideas to: editor@beniciamagazine.com www.beniciamagazine.com

Jeanne Steinmann

Your Perspective piece in the June edition of Benicia Magazine neglected to mention Venticello's restaurant in the 900 block of First Street as having sidewalk tables. And I just love that place. I think that Sandovals has outside tables. Pacifica Pizza also has outside tables, but I am not sure that would count in your survey.

Nonetheless, I look forward to each edition as a lifelong Benician.

–Bob Langston

Thank you for the great story on trees in Benicia. Your article really helps frame trees in the historical as well as the contemporary landscape of Benicia.

-Wolfram Alderson, Executive Director, Benicia Tree Foundation

Your editorial in the June issue noted a few restaurants with outdoor seating. What about Issy's, Char's, Kinder's or Pacifica Pizza?

We enjoy our First St. restaurants' vibrant scene.

–Ron Arrants

Benicia Magazine continues to be a source of inspiration. Your support of local businesses, events and history is so important and I look forward to it every month. Thank you for covering Open Studios, Arts Benicia’s San Francisco Sinfonietta, Jeff Campitelli (a fantastic musician but also “just a dad” to Gabby—one of the amazing singers in VOENA who will be going to the London Olympics), and the BMS Guitar Club. The arts in all forms are a vital part of our community and Benicia wouldn’t be the same without your publication.

-Susan Mann, Chair, Arts Benicia Board of Directors

Ed. Note: Camellia Tea Room also has a table or two outside. We’ll put together a comprehensive list of Benicia eateries with outdoor seating for the August issue.

From the Website: It was a joy reading the article on Benicia's Urban Forest. What an excellent way to increase awareness of our residents on the importance of trees in our community. Thanks for making this article happen.

-Steven Goetz, Member, Board of Directors, Benicia Tree Foundation

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Recommendations from Bookshop Benicia owner Christine Mayall Gone Girl, by Gillian Flynn. Crown, $25.00. A can't-put-down

suspense novel of a marriage gone terribly wrong. Just when you think you've figured it out, the author flips the story again. Fantastic!

Art Of Fielding, by Chad Harbach. Hachette, $14.99. Baseball, friendship, romance—what’s not to love about this poignant, brilliant novel?

Beautiful Ruins, by Jess Walter. Harper, $25.99. A marvelous whirlpool of a novel with bits and pieces coming from all over that somehow all tie back to the filming of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton's Cleopatra. Funny and very clever.

Weird Sisters, by Eleanor Brown. Penguin, $15.00. Three sisters in an eccentric family who love each other deeply, but that doesn't mean they like each other! Lovingly told, great read.

In the Garden Beasts, by Erik Larson. Broadway, $16.00. True

account of William Dodd and his family. Dodd became ambassador to Germany in 1933 just as Hitler rose to power and he and his family slowly came to realize the horror that was about to be unleashed on the world. An amazing look back at that time—full of detail. B

Rockville Trails Park—

a Bay Area Gem

By Bob Ecker Tucked away on the westernmost edge of Fairfield near Green Valley and across the street from the Rockville Hills Park, lies the soon to be purchased Rockville Trails, a Bay Area gem of open space, natural habitat and wonderful views. This 1,500 acre site located between Rockville and Suisun Valley Roads in Fairfield was once slated to have yet more mega estate homes, new roads and congestion, hardly needed in Green Valley. Instead, the fundraising efforts are nearing completion on an epic rescue. Led by the Solano Land Trust with assistance from a consortium of non-profit agencies, government entities, local businesses and individual donors—today Rockville Trails is closer than ever to becoming an open space park and preserve that will benefit the entire region in perpetuity. The Rockville Trails fundraising effort has been happening for some time, but the process is expected to wrap up this summer.

The total purchase price for the area is $13.5 million, with an additional $2 million for ongoing maintenance. Of the $15.5 million total, $13.5 million has already been raised. The largest contributors to date have been: the California State Coastal Conservancy, Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation, Resources Legacy Fund, Syar Foundation, Wildlife Conservation Board, the City of Fairfield Community Facilities District and Solano County Mello-Roos, along with smaller foundations and private donations. The Solano Land Trust Board is confident the remaining funds needed can be raised through further donations and naming opportunities. For instance, the Syar Foundation, a local (Fairfield/Vacaville) philanthropy, has donated $75,000 to “name” the future park’s parking and staging areas. One local business came up with a creative way to help the cause. Wooden Valley Winery, located

close to Rockville Trails has unveiled an exclusive limited edition wine, the 2009 Rockville Trails Cabernet Sauvignon, with 50% of the wine’s proceeds going directly to the to Rockville Trails fundraising efforts.

Rich in flora and fauna, covered by ancient oak trees and rocky outcroppings, Rockville Trails occupies the southern border of the Blueridge Berryessa Natural Area (BRBNA). When completed and ready for public use, this area this will include six miles of the Bay Area Ridge Trail and superb new hiking, biking and equestrian trails. The Solano Land Trust staff is working on a management plan for the future park. This large, open space park and preserve will benefit all residents of Solano County, as well as those throughout the Bay Area seeking a bucolic local retreat that complements our hectic, urban lives. B

12 • Benicia Magazine Currents

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 13

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Homesteading:

A lifestyle of simple self-sufficiency

By Beth Steinmann Whether the motivation is economic, environmental, or “gosh darn, it’s just a cool hobby,” urban homesteading is quickly gaining momentum across America. Once your backyard garden and compost are in place, the next logical step is the acquisition of a few hens, right? Free fertilizer, bug control and fresh, tender eggs every morning are big bonuses.

A few considerations need serious weighing before bringing those fuzzy chicks home, and thousands of folks on the internet are ready to lend a helping hand with blogs, how-tos, and FAQs. Increase chances of success and enhance the urban/suburban backyard farming experience with a wellthought out plan. You can build your own coop or purchase one at retailers such as Williams Sonoma.

The first thing to check is city ordinances. In Benicia, up to 10 fowl are permitted at single-family residences, and up to 6 at multifamily residences, provided they are kept at least 20 feet away from neighboring structures. Roosters or other fowl that constitute a noise nuisance are not allowed, but hens will lay eggs with or without a rooster. For Benicia ordinance details, see Title 6, Chapter 6.32 of the Benicia Municipal code, at http://www.codepublishing.com/ca/benicia/.

Top 5 Varieties Backyardchickens.com has an online community of over 115,000 chicken owners, and a list of 108 different varieties. Here are their top five, in order: 1. Orpington 2. Plymouth Rock 3. Australorp 4. Silkie 5. Star Read up on the pros and cons of different varieties to find those that best suit your needs.

Resources

rr www.backyardchickens.com http://www.vintagegardengal.com/ category/chickens/ r http://parentingsquad.com/what-toconsider-before-raising-chickens-orlearn-from-my-mistakes rr http://successwithpoultry.blogspot.com/ http://www.raising-chickens.org/ To buy top green coop, williamssonoma.com Photos left, above and next page by Jerry Bowles

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Camellia Tea Room Voted #2 Best Tea House in the SF Chronicle/SFGate.com

“Best of the Baylist” Delicious Lunch, Afternoon Tea, Desserts & Fine Teas & Tea Accessories

A few more things to consider HABITAT According to backyardchickens.com, chicks will be comfortable in a small animal cage or sturdy cardboard box for the first 60 days.

For the first week, temps should be between 90-100 degrees, and decreased by 5 degrees per week.

Use a 100-watt light, pointed at the corner and not the center of the box.

Pine shavings work well as flooring.

Give the chicks a carefully-fenced off space in the yard to spend some time exploring, and play with them so they get used to human attention.

Once feathered, the hens will need a coop, 2-3 feet of space each, and 4-5 feet of penned space outside.

Plan out a safe space for the coop, free from potential predators, before you purchase chicks!

r r r rr r r

CLEANING Some people think that chickens smell really bad. Have in mind a designated cage-cleaner before you purchase, or create a rotating chore in the family.

If your coop is kept clean, it will smell less and be a much healthier environment for your chickens.

Cleaning schedules should be tailored to the individual family and will change depending on the environment and number of chickens, but a simple daily cleaning and thorough cleanings every few weeks is a good way to go.

Manure can be added directly to compost, along with unfinished food scraps.

r r r

Camellia Tea Room • 828 First Street Downtown Benicia • 707.746.5293

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DIET Chicken layer feed and food pellets are common choices.

Chickens should always have fresh water; waterers can be purchased or homemade.

Fruit and vegetable scraps and occasional meat scraps make good treats, but some vegetable skins (such as potatoes and avocados) contain chemicals that are harmful to foul. Check online for food safety tips (visit backyardchickens.com for a complete food chart).

Bugs such as crickets are part of a chicken’s native diet and will be thoroughly enjoyed. B

rr r r

Gallery Hours: Sun-Thurs 11-5 • Fri 11-7 • Sat 10-7 109 East F Street , Benicia, CA 94510

707.748.1336 • www.lindsayartglass.com BeniciaMagazine.com • 15

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ACCESSING THE ART

Three Benicia Galleries We all know that Benicia is a robust arts community.

But how is the art best viewed? Try an afternoon of gallery-hopping at three downtown venues: The Arts Benicia Gallery, 621 Gallery and the Plein Air Gallery. Each has its own distinct style, and none are intimidating. Unlike some big city galleries, you can comfortably browse here without pressure. Although it’s the smallest, the Plein Air Gallery, housed in a First Street Victorian, is chock full of vibrant watercolor and oil paintings from fourteen member artists, painted “en plein air,” (in the open air). The gallery is in its third year, and you can’t help but smile when you walk in the door.

Opened in September 2011, the 621 Gallery is the newest of the three—a contemporary fine art venue with large, light-filled rooms displaying works in a variety of media including painting, printmaking, sculpture and photography. The Plein Air and 621 galleries feature works from member artists, with a larger display for the featured artist of the month. The Arts Benicia Gallery, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, hosts a number of annual exhibitions and community events such as Open Studios, the ABAiR (Arts Benicia Artist in Residence) project, Small Works and Art of a Community. So next time your soul needs soothing, tour all three or immerse yourself in just one for deeper contemplation.

621 Gallery

July Featured Artist: Jerrold Turner 621 First St., Thurs-Sun 12-6 or by appt.

707.746.6211, gallery621.com

Plein Air Gallery

July Featured Artist: Susan Johnson 307 First St., Thurs-Sun 12-6 or by appt.

707.495.2940, beniciapleinair.com

Photos top and center by Jerry Bowles Arts Benicia photo courtesy of Arts Benicia B

Arts Benicia Gallery

Current Exhibit: ABAiR Project, through July 15 991 Tyler Ste. 114, Thurs-Sun 12-5 707.747.0131, artsbenicia.org

16 • Benicia Magazine

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Are You Ready To Give Up Those Reading Glasses?

Tree Selection

The right tree in the right place

Trees are one of the most important landscape investment decisions.

Please consider • Function, aesthetics, shade, windbreak & privacy • Form and size, & space constraints • Site consideration & soil conditions • Exposure to sun and wind • Pest problems www.ci.benicia.ca.us • www.beniciatrees.org

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 17

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a

at the BENICIA POLICE DEPARTMENT

By Jeanne Steinmann As the successful bidder on an auction item donated by the Benicia Police Department, I recently spent a full day observing its inner workings. Patty Baron, a retired officer who is now a civilian in charge of the department’s volunteer patrol and various other programs, provided many insights during a tour of the facilities. We began with the building’s central corridor, where photographs from the 1940’s to the present are on display, offering a historical perspective of a small town’s emergence into modern city policing. The walls are also adorned with staff recognitions, which, according to Baron, is a relatively new program. These and the many other upgrades to the facility, along with significant technology improvements over the past several years, seem to mirror changes in the way the department is managed under its Chief, Andrew Bidou.

Two phrases came up repeatedly during my vist: “community policing” and “contemporary management.”

The tour, a ride-along on patrol, a shooting lesson and lunch with the Chief and Detective Bob Oettinger offered a glimpse into how those concepts are put into practice and affect citizens. Most importantly, it’s reflected in a low crime rate. Historically low, in 2011 Benicia’s crime rate fell to its lowest in 25 years. Yet this poses unique challenges to the PD, who must meet “huge” community expectations, and also make sure officers are trained and ready when crimes do occur. “We have the same crimes as any other city, we just have fewer of them,” said Detective Oettinger. So although the department had to cut $500,000 from the 2011 budget, training remained a high priority. “In order to balance budgets, most departments cut training. I would rather have a reduced, well trained, educated, sophisticated force. A little money spent in the short term saves big dollars in the long run,” said Chief Bidou. “The number one focus is keeping our people current to ensure public safety. We want the right people in the right places.” Bidou cut staff, then consolidated resources and re-engineered staffing to maximize efficiencies. Grants and partnerships with nonprofit agencies have also helped bridge budget gaps. A second K-9 was recently purchased, through a grant from the Syar Foundation, so that two fully-trained K-9's are available 24/7.

Bidou, who is married with two children, has an impressive resume, especially given his age (he is 44).

His experience and educational achievements are too lengthy to print here, but are available online at ci.benicia.ca.us. They include S.W.A.T. training and the FBI Academy, and degrees and certificates from St. Mary’s College, Cornell University, the University of Virginia, Boston University and Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government. Bidou grew up in Benicia, but left to begin his career in Newark, California, where he rose to the position of Captain.

Being proactive, instead of reactive is also helping to reduce crime. The ride-along with Officer Mark Simonson, who, as part of the re-engineering, is assigned to traffic but also provides backup to patrol officers when needed, 18 • Benicia Magazine

July Ben Mag vol7 v9.indd 18

6/19/12 9:22 AM

Photos courtesy of Benicia Police Department Page 18: Coffee with the Cops Page 19, clockwise from top: K-9 demo, Henderson Elementary; Youth Action Coalition; Bike Rodeo, Mary Farmar Elementary; Special Olympics Torch Run

included two minor incidents, one of which illustrated the point. We passed a parked car with two men sitting inside, on a quiet street in the middle of the day, arousing enough suspicion to circle back to check it out. By way of explaining, Simonson offered, “Crime is mobile, and routine stops are often a gateway to other things.

Yesterday, during a traffic stop, an illegal weapon was found in the vehicle. There’s a ripple effect when we are proactive about crime prevention—the word gets out.”

Another aspect is “point of contact” service. “Every time we answer a false alarm or a call from a community member is an opportunity to have a conversation with that individual and address concerns,” said Bidou.

“We do a ton of community outreach.” Indeed, the department logged in almost 5,000 volunteer hours last year for its many community programs, which include Special Olympics and Relay For Life. Bidou instituted the popular “Coffee with the Cops” program, where citizens meet with members of the PD for informal discussions on crime trends. These and other programs, goals and management practices add up to what Bidou refers to as “a departmental paradigm shift.” B BeniciaMagazine.com • 19

July Ben Mag vol7 v9.indd 19

6/19/12 10:30 AM

LLLLLLLLLL LLLLLLLLLL

By Bob Ecker Part 1 of 2 Photos by Jerry Bowles

Rellik Tavern

The Chill

For beer lovers or friends, acquaintances and lovers of beer lovers, today Benicia is literally hopping with fine craft beers. In the recent past, boring, commercial American beers were the only thing available in Benicia bars, restaurant and pubs; one had to travel to San Francisco, Berkeley or beyond to sample quality brews.

Fortunately that deficit has been remedied and now there are some excellent downtown spots making beer aficionados quite happy.

Here are a few to get you started.

THE CHILL 362 1st Street, 707.746.5530

SAILOR JACKS 123 1st Street , 707.746.8500

RELLIK TAVERN 726 1st Street, 707.746.1137 The Holy Grail and best specialty beer bar in town, The Rellik is to beer what San Juan Capistrano is to swallows. Not to lessen Rellik’s thoughtful wine list and serious top shelf liquor selection, but owner Delando Pegan has assembled a magnificent beer palace that demands return visits. With comfy leather chairs and couches, dark mood lighting, table service, live music and a dozen or so fine beers on tap, The Rellik is just so inviting. “When I opened The Rellik it was with the philosophy to seek out breweries that make great beers and not great beer commercials. This is why you don't see Bud, Coors or Miller in our bar,” said Pegan. I recently sipped a Big Eye IPA then couldn’t decide between the Moylan’s Irish Red, a Brew Dog or my old favorite, Liberty Ale. Watch for next month's featured locations and let the Benicia beer adventure continue. B

Well known as the Benicia historic seafood-oriented restaurant at the edge of the First Street, Sailor Jacks pours some mighty fine beers. “We are in the glory days of beer, there has never been a time in history where more bright minds have dedicated their brain power and financial resources to make available the rainbow of styles we see today,” said Sailor Jacks’ executive chef, Maynard Oestreich, a beer enthusiast and historian. Sailor Jacks serves up four or five beers on draft plus a pretty fair selection of intriguing beers by the bottle, like Allagash White Ale—which goes delightfully with the fresh mussels on the menu. (Also great with Jack’s spicy Gumbo.)

Oestreich says, “We will look back at the 2010’s like rock music fans look at the 1960’s—a time of emergence, experimentation and blazing new trails. I am glad I was alive to see it.” Wow, is he into it.

Check it out.

Perhaps the best looking wine bar in town, The Chill is a place, well, to chill, have a drink and take in the cool ambiance. Serving a few draft beers plus some bottled choices, The Chill is an excellent spot to enjoy a cold Racer 5 while your oenophile friends prattle on about the grassy attributes of a Sauvignon Blanc or the ample tannins of a Dry Creek Zin. Still, for the great vibe and attractive crowd, The Chill is certainly worth a stop on any Benicia Pub tour.

20 • Benicia Magazine Food - Travel - Spirits

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 21

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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

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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Benicia Marina

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22 • Benicia Magazine

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Consignment Arsenal

Wedding and Event Space

Buy and Sell Used Furniture

Benicia Historic Arsenal

946F Tyler Street, Benicia • 707.746.0100 Military East to Polk to Tyler

940 Tyler Street, Benicia 707.373.5371 or 707.746.0100

Real Estate doesn’t have to be this painful!

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

Benicia Golf Association BeniciaGolf.org

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

707.297.6119

82 Solano Square, Benicia M-F 10am-7pm, Sat. 10am-5pm

All About Beauty Day Spa

and Skin Care Store

Eminence Organics & More 507 First Street, 2nd Floor, Benicia 707.747.1471 allaboutbeautydayspa.com

Christie Finn | Realtor DRE# 01876823 Coldwell Banker Solano Pacific 900 First Street | Benicia Ph: 707.853.9787 | Fax: 707.746.1337 christie.finn@coldwellbanker.com www.LiveBenicia.com

Fiber-Frolics

Dudikoff Insurance Agency Planning, Products, & Services

George Dudikoff, Agent, Lic. #OB13442

Specialty Yarns and Classes Giovanna Sensi-Isolani, fiber artist

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

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

www.farmersagent.com/gdudikoff

Benicia Floral & Gifts 838 First Street, Benicia, CA 94510 707.745.5838 • www.beniciafloral.com

Mexican Food 640 First Street • 707.746.7830

Grand Opening - Me your stress away!

Zen Spa

60 Min. Full Body Massage $45 (introductory price) 435 First Street • 707.751.0120 • Open every day • 10am-10pm, walk-ins welcome

BlueBird Vintage Women’s clothing & accessories

Shawna Robinson/Candice Benitez Open Tues–Sun • 800 First Street, Benicia 707.745.9900 or 510.706.3296

2nd Chance Thrift Store Furniture, Collectibles & Household items 11am-6pm, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 929 First Street, Benicia, 707.745.6276 Adobe is a clean and sober men’s residential program solely supported by Thrift Shop sales and Labor Services.

Thrift store purchases help men rebuild their lives.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 23

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Interview with

Dan Healy

By Sue Sumner-Moore

Photo by Lisa Duncan

In his windowless office and courtroom at the Solano County Justice Center in Vallejo, Judge Dan Healy works to channel the spirit of Aloha.

Not the hang-loose attitude found in Hawaii, but the state’s Aloha Spirit law. The statute defines the Aloha spirit as acting with kindness, patience and humility while working in harmony and unity. A framed copy of the law hangs at eye level beside the door to Judge Healy’s chambers.

“It’s a real law in Hawaii,” Judge Healy says, smiling as he talks about the unique law. “The Aloha spirit is all about being cool, treating each other well. I try to do that always.”

Posters of Grateful Dead and Santana concerts, golf trophies, his father’s “Judge Healy” nameplate and other memorabilia adorn the current Judge Healy’s office. He became a Superior Court judge in January 2011 after 24 years in private practice and is currently assigned to Family Law Court.

“I used to say I never wanted to be a judge. I liked being an advocate. But I was getting a little frazzled by being an advocate,” he says. “And I like the idea that people who think like me are here.”

Judge Healy, 52, was born and raised in Vallejo. He and his wife moved to Benicia in 1989 and raised their two children here. While in private practice, he served as a judge pro tem several weeks a year plus volunteered with several organizations, including the Benicia Planning Commission, the Affordable Housing Affiliation, and the Solano County Bar Association. He had to give up many of his volunteer posts when he became a judge, but he remains on the board of Vallejo Community Access TV.

Why did you want to be a judge?

It was a way to stay involved with the law. … The Planning Commission was one of the segues for me to becoming a judge. Being on the Planning Commission and chairing it, I thought, “I kinda like this, I kinda like making decisions rather than being the flame thrower.” I’d still be on the Planning Commission if I could. …

One of the reasons I knew maybe it was time to move on was that I got worse waiting for juries to come back. My anxiety would rise. I tried a lot of jury trials over the years. I became more fidgety, more impatient. I usually felt vested with the client.

Also, I turned 50 and I wanted to dial back on the business part of it all. That’s been a very nice thing about this gig. I don’t have to worry about payroll or clients calling me. The stress of that has diminished a lot. My nights and weekends are completely reinvented. For 20 years, I was in the office really late, on nights and weekends. Here I can go home.

What other differences do you see between being a lawyer and being a judge?

Your duty is completely different. When you represent someone, your duty is to advocate a certain position. Whereas, as a judge, you have to let the process play out and keep an open mind. As an advocate, you are not responsible for the ultimate outcome. On the flipside, judges are responsible for that decision. …

I did criminal trials all last year. That’s a completely different thing. I could do work (while waiting for jury) as a judge. Before, I never could.

Now I worry more about whether I made the right decision.

I made a decision today that’s going to be on my mind for weeks.

That’s the risk associated with decision making. There’s the chance you make a wrong decision and someone gets hurt or someone dies. On the other hand, you could unfairly deny someone something because you misjudged them. It’s not a grind-your-teeth stress, but it’s still stressful.

Having kids is a good instructional tool because you learn as a parent that things are not always what they seem. It teaches you to take some breaths and remember to not sweat the small stuff. I think I’ve always been pretty mellow. I think that’s critical.

What is a judge’s role in the courtroom?

Ten different judges will give you 10 different answers. Some people think you just call balls and strikes. I do have this social work model. I try to be equal parts motivating, monitoring and sometimes deciding. Last week I had a case where I kind of lost it and said, “Both of you guys suck.”

Sometimes you have to get their attention. Most cases involve a certain amount of conflict, but only a pretty small number get to the level of “The War of the Roses.” We call them our frequent flyers.

Something I say often in these cases is “It feels like you’re here to win, but I have nothing for you. You may be right, you may have the most godawful spouse ever, but we have to move forward and make a plan. You have these kids and you have to take care of them.”

What role does mediation play in Family Law Court?

Right now we have mediation for money things and family law, but we don’t have it for neighborhood or school disputes. …

I see the need for mediation all the time with restraining orders. A restraining order is a bit of a time out, but it doesn’t solve the underlying conflict. With much of the stuff we see, just giving them an order doesn’t resolve the matter. It just gives one person a leg up, then they’re back in three weeks. For people living in the same environment—students at the same school, neighbors—you have to resolve that conflict.

What do lay people need to know before heading to court for the first time?

The first thing: If you can make peace without coming to court, choose peace.

The second thing: Separate your legal and financial goals from your emotional goals, and make sure you can tell the difference.

Also, have realistic expectations. A lot more often than people want to admit, they can’t get what they want from a court.

What’s surprised you about serving as a judge?

It’s harder than I thought being part of a bureaucracy. I knew intellectually what I was going to do, but experiencing it is completely different. Everything from getting a light bulb changed to the bureaucracy and politics of decision-making. That’s the thing that’s troubled me the most, that’s been my biggest adjustment.

Expanded interview online at beniciamagazine.com B

24 • Benicia Magazine Interview

July Ben Mag vol7 v9.indd 24

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Just For

KIDS! 7/2-8/17

Adventures Day Camp 7am-6pm

School’s out, let the fun begin! 1st-8th grade 2-week sessions, single weeks or drop in Benicia Parks & Community Services Dept.

Ci.benicia.ca.us 707.746.4285

7/11

Drummm Circle Program, Ages 8-14, 3pm

7/18

Philip & Henry Magic Show 11am

7/19

Teen Event-Duct Tape Wallets, Etc. 2-4pm

7/28&29

Family Sundown Safari at the Oakland Zoo

Hands-on drum circle program Benicia Library, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

Exploring a world of magic & mystery Community Center Green, 370 East L St. Ci.benicia.ca.us 707.746.4285

Show off your creative side to craft mini art Benicia Library, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

Sat. 5pm to Sun. 10am, ages four & up Tours, sleep in your own tent, hot breakfast Pre-registration required.

Oaklandzoo.org 510.632.9525 x200

Together We Can Make a Difference

In the Life of a Child

FREE DRAWINGS INFINEON TICKETS Register at Dolan’s in Benicia Championship Drag Racing in July Indy Grand Prix in August

Name___________________________________ Street___________________________________ City____________________State___ ZIP______ Phone (___)__________ Cell (___)___________

Reserve a spot now Opening enrollment for Summer & Fall Preschool/Daycare 707.745.1413

First Week Free!

Lic# 483002056

The Little Blue Engine

Complete entry and drop off at Dolan’s in Benicia. No purchase necessary.

One entry per person. Must be 18 or older. Need not be present to win.

4563 E. Second St., Benicia 94510 / 707-746-1780 / MON - SAT Also in Concord, Pinole, Walnut Creek & Burlingame.

Sign up for news and information at www.DolanLumber.com

BeniciaMagazine.com • 25

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July

Calendar of Events

7/1-7/15

Arts Benicia Artists in Residence Exhibition Noon-5pm

Featured artists are Debra Stuckgold and Warmbaby Arts Benicia Gallery, 991 Tyler Street, Suite 114 Artsbenicia.org 707.747.0131

7/1

The Way We Were – and What We Wore Opening Reception & Presentation 2pm Ladies’ Hats 1890-1965 Presentation by Christina Strawbridge Stone Hall, 2060 Camel Road, Benicia Beniciahistoricalmuseum.org 707.745.5435

7/3 Benicia’s Torchlight Parade 6:30pm

Parade includes music, dancers, floats, clowns & more Downtown Benicia, First Street Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

7/4

7/5-7/26

7/6& 7/20

7/7-7/29

7/8

7/11-7/25

Friends of the Library Book Sale 10am-4pm

7/14

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

7/14

Benicia Plein Art Gallery Reception 5-7pm

7/14

Gallery 621 Opening Reception 5-8pm

7/18

Evening Book Club for Adults 7-8pm

7/19

Community Blood Drive 1-7pm

7/20

Outdoor Summer Concert & Movie 6:30pm

Benicia Certified Farmers Market 4-8pm

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

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

Capitol & Fischer-Hanlon House

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

Family Art Day 1-3pm

Bring your family to discover art together Create an art project taught by Arts Benicia Arts Benicia Gallery, 991 Tyler Street, Suite 114 Artsbenicia.org 707.747.0131

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

7/14

Picnic in the Park & Fireworks Noon-10pm

Arts and crafts, food, live entertainment, kid’s activities Fireworks start about 9pm at the foot of First Street Benicia City Park, First Street & Military Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

Toastmaster’s Group Wed. Evening 7:30-9pm

7/28&29

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

Featuring Susan Johnson, show entitled “In Provence” Thurs-Sun 12-6pm, Exhibit runs through July 307 First Street, Beniciapleinair.com Featuring Jerrold Turner, Painting Exhibit runs from July 12-August 5 621 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

Donors must be in good health, 17+ yrs, over 110 lbs First Baptist Church, 1055 Southampton Road Bring a pillow & blanket & enjoy Dolphin Tale City Park Gazebo, First Street & Military West Ci.benicia.ca.us 707.746.4285

Benicia Fine Art and Jazz Festival

Saturday 11am-8pm, Sunday 11am-6:30pm Bay Area jazz musicians, fine art, food, wine & beer Art of the Car auto display & children's art and activity alley Benicia Green, Foot of First Street Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

Scan for more listings 26 • Benicia Magazine Calendar

July Ben Mag vol7 v9.indd 26

6/19/12 9:22 AM

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 27

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6/19/12 9:22 AM

By Rhonda Lucile Hicks

What’s a typical day at the office? It can be any combination of phone and email communication with an artist or manager to plan an upcoming recording session, crunching budget numbers, conceptualizing new recording or reissue projects, finalizing track selections and program orders for projects, listening to master refs for approval, hiring liner note writers and so on. My favorite kind of day is when I'm actually not at the office at all, but in a recording studio supervising a recording or mixing session.

You were and are a musician first, how did you come to be a jazz record producer? Jazz has long been a passion, ever since I

heard the Sonoma High School jazz band play at an elementary school assembly when I was in the 4th grade! I started learning to play trumpet the next year in our public school system and went on to play in the junior high and high school jazz bands.

You’ve produced Grammy-nominated recording projects with jazz artists—what projects are on your horizon?

Photo by Jane Higgens, Spotlight Photography

Featured Musician

Nick Phillips B-3 Hammond and Piano player, band leader, teacher Born: July 14, 1965 in La Mesa, CA Resides in: Vallejo, CA Favorite Food: Indian, Mexican, and barbecue Favorite Book: Effortless Mastery by Kenny Werner Relationship Status/Children: Married to Diana Lang

Read the full interview online at beniciamagazine.com.

French

CONVERSATIONAL CLASSES

I recently signed the incredibly talented Chicago-based vocalist/ pianist/songwriter Patricia Barber to our Concord Jazz label, and I've been working with her in planning her upcoming recording project.

Watch for the release of her new album sometime at the beginning of 2013. I've also been working on a number of reissue projects by such legendary artists as Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Bill Evans, Thelonious Monk, Cannonball Adderley, and Booker T. and the MGs, amongst others, that will be released throughout this spring and summer.

You’ve been generous playing for local benefits, what other creative outlets do you have for playing your trumpet? Quite some time ago I got too old to be getting home at

two or three or four in the morning after a gig and getting up at 7:30AM to go to work! So these days, it's mostly playing my trumpet for fun or a cause I believe in.

How did you make your first dollar as a musician? Playing trumpet as a high school student in a big band called The Moonlighters.

The band played the classic swing-ear repertoire for dances—Glen Miller, Tommy Dorsey, etc. I think I was the only musician in the band that didn't have grey hair.

What’s the first Miles Davis song you remember hearing?

“So What” from the legendary Kind of Blue album.

Nick Phillips & Friends will be playing at Gracie’s Barbeque on Friday July 20, 2012 from 6:30pm-9:00pm and at the Vallejo Zen Center on Saturday, July 28, 2012 from 3:00pm-6:00pm. B

Get your vacation money

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707.644.3421

Vallejo Coin Exchange pays the most for your gold!

Vallejo Coin Exchange • 127 Tennessee, Vallejo M-Th 11am-5pm, F 11am-3pm • 707.554.1754 VallejoCoin.com

28 • Benicia Magazine Listening

July Ben Mag vol7 v9.indd 28

6/19/12 9:22 AM

Live Music: Ongoing The Rellik Tavern

Live music every Fri. & Sat. night therelliktavern.com 707.746.1137

Upstairs at the Café

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

Gracie’s Barbeque, Vallejo

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

Sardine Can, Vallejo Live jazz every Sunday 5pm-8pm sardinecan.net 707.553.9492 Sticky Rice Chinese Bistro & Bar Fairfield Live Music every Sat. night stickyricebistro.com 707.863.7500

Winterhawk Winery, Fairfield

Live Music & dancing every Sat., 2pm-5pm winterhawkwinery.com, 707.428.6977

Favela’s Fusion, Fairfield Live Mariachi music first Fridays favelasfusion.com 707.421.8484 Vinnie’s Bar & Grill, Concord

All Pro Blues Jam every 1st & 2nd Sun. vinniesbar.com 925.685.9515

Al Green

John “Sherm” Passalacqua

John Nemeth

901 West Second St., Benicia 707-745-3130 www.passalacquafuneralchapel.com

Montalvo Arts Center, Saratoga Friday, July 13, 7:30pm montalvoarts.org Silo’s, Napa Friday, July 13, 8pm silosnapa.com

Michael Feinstein

Napa Valley Opera House, Napa Friday, July 13, 8pm nvoh.org

The Hoo Doo Rhythm Devils A Retrospective George’s, San Rafael Friday, July 13, 9pm georgesnightclub.com

The String Cheese Incident Greek Theatre, Berkeley Sat., July 14 and Sun., July 15 apeconcerts.com

Ringo Star and his All-Star Band Montalvo Arts Center, Saratoga Tuesday, July 17, 7:30pm montalvoarts.org

Charlie Musselwhite

Napa Valley Opera House, Napa Friday, July 20, 8pm nvoh.org

Audrey Auld

Special Events

Club Fox, Redwood City Sunday, July 22, 7pm clubfoxrwc.com

House Jacks

Maria De Barros

Freight & Salvage, Berkeley Friday, July 6, 8pm thefreight.org

Yoshi’s, San Francisco Wednesday, July 25, 8pm yoshis.com

Lyle Lovett

Ziggy Marley

Joe & Vicki Price

Watsky

Uptown Theatre, Napa Friday, July 6, 8pm uptowntheatrenapa.com Armando’s, Martinez Saturday, July 7, 8pm-11pm armandosmartinez.com

Passalacqua Funeral Chapel

Greg Silva

Twin Chapels Mortuary 1100 Tennessee St., Vallejo 707-552-6696 www.twinchapelsmortuary.com

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

Benicia Plumbing, Inc. Residential and Commercial

“People taking care of people...”

Over 35 Years of Excellence!

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

24 Hours - Seven Days a Week | www.beniciaplumbing.com

(707) 745-2930

CA Lic. #329632

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

Uptown Theatre, Napa Friday, July 27, 8pm uptowntheatrenapa.com Slim’s, San Francisco Sunday, July 29, 9pm slimspresents.com

Underground Sound

Stage Werx Theatre, San Francisco Sunday, July 8, 7pm stagewerx.org

Kabaret for Kids

Firehouse Arts, Pleasanton Wednesday, July 11 and July 25 firehousearts.org

• Serving the Benicia/Vallejo area for over 70 years • Only on-site crematory in the area • Funerals, memorials, VA Burials

SUMMER CLEARANCE ON SOME FLOOR MODELS JULY & AUGUST!

707.745.5933

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

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July Ben Mag vol7 v9.indd 29

6/19/12 9:22 AM

Celebrating a Diamond Jubilee

By Christina Strawbridge Part 1 of 2 While dining at a favorite Benicia restaurant several years ago, a group of our friends discussed upcoming birthdays and decided that when we all turned 60 in 2012, we would celebrate in Paris. A dinner napkin was signed and dated to assure our commitment, and thus began plans for a European adventure. Tom and Patty Gavin, Patti Baron (who came for support since she is a bit younger) and the Strawbridge’s put together five sets of calendars and found ten days in May to seal the deal.

Passports were obtained for the first timers, and air, train and hotels were booked—three days in London, five in Paris and two in Venice. The big question from the female contingency was: what we were taking to wear and how many bags could we bring? The reality was that each of us had to be able to maneuver our own bags. Since the weather reports included everything from rain and 40 degree temps in London to a balmy 80 degrees in Venice, layering of separates was essential. I packed leggings, tunics, gloves and my faux leather bomber. Since walking would be the rule, I brought patent leather Mary Janes and a pair of boots. Utilizing coats and jackets as my anchor, I was able to be comfortably chic while walking my legs off.

Arriving at London Heathrow, a huge welcome poster with a smiling Beefeater greeted the jet lagged Americans ready to take on the UK.... after a nap. Our hotel was directly across from Big Ben with a view of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. Situated next to the River Thames and the giant London Eye, the location proved to be the perfect spot to experience the heart of England.

London was abuzz with preparations for the Queen's Royal Diamond Jubilee and the Summer Olympics.

Flags and banners proclaimed these events and retailers were offering themed merchandise that included royal commemorative china and tea towels with the Queen's picture, mugs inscribed with "60 years a Queen" and Alexander McQueen's Union Jack crystal clutch.

The double-decker red tour busses gave the group an overview of the City from one end to the other.

Favorite sites were Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace and Knightsbridge, the home of Harrods department store.

Harrods is a must-see for even the most reluctant shopper because of the depth of merchandise covering five acres. The grand halls of food are astonishing with the displays of breads, meats and fish that resemble works of art. We found the men a wine bar in which to occupy themselves while the ladies explored a maze of the best merchandise in the world under one roof.

Our British invasion included Kensington Palace, where Princes William and Harry were raised, and where Harry and the new royal couple, William and Kate, now reside. The exhibit “Diana, The Modern Princess” is included in the palace tour’s ticket price. Some of her famous gowns are displayed in an elegant theatrical set.

Wallpaper, illustrated by artist Julie Verhoeven, highlights some of Diana's defining moments as a fashion icon. One memorable piece was the Emanuel black strapless gown Diana wore for her public debut after the announced engagement to Prince Charles. It was controversial for the time because of its revealing décolletage and has never been publically displayed. The sleek black Versace dress that the Princess of Wales wore several times in the 1990's was also a favorite, and showed her fashion evolution.

We attended a concert at the Royal Albert Hall, participated in services at Westminster Abbey, visited the Tower of London, where the Crown Jewels to be worn by the Queen during the upcoming celebration are housed.

We set sail down the Thames on our final day in merry old England, feeling a bit worldly and a bit royal.

As we prepared for our journey to Paris, we realized that 60 years is not only a big deal for the five of us, but also for England and its Queen. Long live the Queen and long live our tour group! B

30 • Benicia Magazine Fashionista

July Ben Mag vol7 v9.indd 30

6/19/12 9:22 AM

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

beniciaunified.org Just a reminder that: all students entering 6th or 9th grade must show residency proof before registering

Welcome to

Enrollment for New Students All sites are currently doing Enrollment for the 2012-13 school year.

Enrollment is by appointment only.

Information can be found on the BUSD website under

All students entering 7th grade must show proof of a Tdap booster before registering

Parents/Students and Student Enrollment.

Call your local school site or the district office.

*Call school site or visit beniciaunified.org for specific times

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 • 31

July Ben Mag vol7 v9.indd 31

6/19/12 9:23 AM

Come see our beautiful, newly-remodeled showroom

Join us for an

Open House

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

Friday, July 20, 3-7pm; door prizes & refreshments!

• Meile Cooking Center • Bamboo cabinet display • The latest products & technologies

4852 East 2nd Street, Benicia Open Mon. - Fri. 9-5 weekends & evenings by appointment

AFFORDABLE QUALITY Cabinets and Countertops

Contractor’s License # 678979

707-745-2100 www.aqchome.com

32 • Benicia Magazine Listening

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6/19/12 9:23 AM