Benicia Magazine September 2016

Fall's fresh, seasonal offerings SCOTTISH CULTURE ALIVE AND WELL AT BAY AREA FESTIVALS BURNING MAN DEFINED BY EXUBERANCE AND HUMANITY ANNUAL BENICIA FASHION WEEKEND FEATURES PROJECT RUNWAY STARS $2.50 ***** ECR WSS ***** POSTAL CUSTOMER Volume 11 Issue 11 September 2016

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

707-745-7534 September 2016

EMPLOYEES CELEBRATE SAFETY ACHIEVEMENTS better

Q : Whatilliison safe work than 4 m es at employe hours by refiner y? ia the Benic

A : Over safe wor 4.7 million k and grow hours… ing.

“We are now in our fifth year without an employee lost-time recordable injury,” said Safety Manager Ray Castro, Jr. Recently, the refinery was presented with three national safety awards from the American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufactures (AFPM) for the refinery’s safety performance.

The highly sought after AFPM awards are part of a comprehensive safety program developed by AFPM’s Safety & Health Committee to promote accident prevention in the petroleum refining and petrochemical manufacturing industries.

“As I’ve said previously, this refinery’s safety record is an amazing feat for any business, let alone a 24/7 industrial facility,” said Castro, Jr. The last employee lost-time recordable injury at the refinery was in May of 2012. An employee’s pinched finger required sutures.

Key to the refinery’s safety success is its participation in the Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) of the California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA). M a n a g e m e n t commitment and employee participation are key elements of the program. Approved VPP “Star Sites” must pass rigorous voluntary safety audits.

VPP is designed to recognize employers and their employees who have implemented safety and health programs that effectively prevent and control occupational and process hazards.

The Benicia refinery has been a continuous Cal/OSHA Star Site since 2006. Only two of California’s 12 refineries have Star Site designation—both are Valero facilities.

VALERO SPORTING CLAY EVENT RAISES $70,000 FOR FOOD BANK The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano received a big boost in its never-ending quest to feed the hungry thanks to the 4th Annual Valero Sporting Clay Invitational, presented by the Benicia refinery.

“The event raised over $70,000 this year, bringing our four-year total to more than a quarter of a million dollars,” said Refinery Controller and event co-chair David Le. “It takes a huge effort and dozens of Valero Volunteers to make this successful,” said Le. The fundraiser was held at the Birds Landing facility in Solano County.

Fast Fact: Safety First:

Thirty-four teams of four competed for prizes and bragging rights while raising money and awareness for the Food Bank, which just celebrated its 40th year of operation.

Le added, “Because of their network of food producers, donors and distribution systems, every dollar donated to the Food Bank provides two meals to people in need.”

Statistics show that one in eight people within Contra Costa and Solano counties seek assistance from the Food Bank for emergency and supplemental food.

Learn more about the Food Bank at www.foodbankccs.org

California had over 40 refineries and a population of 18.8 million in 1965. Today, the state has just 12 refineries that serve a population greater than 39 million.

Drivers must always yield to pedestrians. Every intersection is a crosswalk, even if it is not marked. It’s the law.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 5

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Editor magazine Jeanne Steinmann Graphic Design Margaret Bowles

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Elizabeth d’Huart Bob Ecker Adriene Rockwell Sarah Rohrs Sue Sumner-Moore Photographers Jerry Bowles Malcolm Slight

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Contact Us 707.853.8159, Beniciamagazine.com editor@beniciamagazine.com Administration Office Manager Risë Goebel Copy Editor/proofreader Beth Steinmann Benicia Magazine is published monthly by Polygon Publishing, LLC. Copyright © 2016, all rights reserved. Contents of Benicia Magazine cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed in Benicia Magazine editorial or advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, and may not reflect the opinion of Benicia Magazine’s management or publisher.

Subscriptions $18.00 per year. Benicia Magazine, 372 First Street, Benicia, CA 94510. 707.853.8159, beniciamagazine.com.

Fall Open Enrollment Boys & Girls Age 6 -18 No Audition Policy Benicia Tue. Sept. 6th & Sept. 13th 3:30pm - 4:15pm Benicia Veterans Hall 1150 First Street Benicia Santa Rosa Wed. Sept. 7th & Sept. 14th 4:00pm - 5:30pm Double Session Church of the Roses 2500 Patio Court Santa Rosa New members enroll online at VOENA.org or at rehearsal

Last date to enroll is Sept. 16, 2016 707. 751. 1515 BeniciaMagazine.com • 7

SEPTEMBER

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 11

12 16

FEATURES

16

Exuberance and humanity help define the Burning Man experience

18

Going beyond produce at the Benicia Farmers Market

24

The Caber Toss, Stone Put & more celebrated at Highland festivals

24

DEPARTMENTS 10 From the Editor 12 Currents

Nothing screams “FUN!” Like a wild west auction party Three unsung heroes bring music back to the schools Benicia Fashion Runway Weekend makes its 8th appearance Practical tools for replenishing the spirit at local workshop series Tony Baldwin, professional organist, to play at historic St. Peter’s Chapel 15 Bio Benicia Middle School teacher Pat Hall 15 Backwards Glance

An historic rendering and explanation of the State Seal of California 22 Interview

William “Tags” Tageson’s 50-year maritime career 28 Calendar of Events The best events in Benicia and around the bay Cover photo by Jerry Bowles. Clockwise, above: Early Dutch Airliner by Mike Kendall; courtesy photo, Caledonian Club of San Francisco; Burning Man 2016, by Bob Ecker

8 • Benicia Magazine

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 9

FROM THE EDITOR SEPTEMBER 2016 September is a month of inspiring events. Whether you like yours in the form of art, fashion, music, or other cultural experiences, there’s plenty to satisfy, rolling one after another through the calendar. Starting things off on a cinematic note, the annual Benicia Film Festival, happening September 2-4 in downtown Benicia, has a great lineup of world-class (and some award-winning) short films along with food and wine throughout the weekend. On Wednesday, September 14, the annual Expanding Experiences event put on by Benicia Rotary is a fun combination of artist open studios and wine tasting on Jackson Street in the Arsenal. Following up on September 24 is another tasting event, Benicia Main Street’s Fall Wine Walk, with wine and nibbles along First Street inside participating businesses.

If you love fashion, or just the pure excitement of a professional runway show, purchase tickets early to Benicia Fashion Runway Weekend, September 16-17. It’s a big draw for women and men around the Bay. September 17, First Street closes to vehicle traffic for the 43rd annual Fine Arts & Crafts Fair, sponsored by the Benicia Chamber of Commerce. Also on September 24, Arts Benicia will host their 24th annual Art Auction & Gala at the Clock Tower. This year’s theme promises all kinds of creativity and fun: “Wild, Wild West: Silver Screen to Steampunk.” And for anyone who enjoys the celebration of Scottish culture, there are two within easy driving distance—the 151st Scottish Highland Gathering and Games in Pleasanton September 3 & 4, and the Dixon Scottish Highland Games & Gathering September 24. Want to be part of a huge volunteer event? Get some fresh air and exercise, and pat yourself on the back after helping clean Benicia’s beaches during the annual California Coastal Cleanup September 17. For more information on these and other events, check out the calendar in this issue, and online at beniciamagazine.com.

In addition to the events, locals should consider creating their own downtown experience: spending a few hours wine tasting, pub-crawling, gallery hopping and enjoying the waterfront—shopping locally is critical to a successful downtown. In our November 2011 issue, Adriene and Bruce Rockwell wrote about Benicia being a “happiness hotspot.” One of the things that make us just that, is having our own specialty shops and boutiques that add cultural value to our community. To see a listing of all downtown merchants, visit beniciamainstreet.org or visitbenicia.org.

—Jeanne Steinmann Photo by Michael Van Auken

FEEDBACK

“How blessed we are in Southern Solano County to have such wonderful artists as Pearl Jone -Tranter and so many others! Thank you all for keeping the arts alive.”

-The McConnells of Vallejo Correction: In our August article re: Benicia’s Historic Buildings, the reference to the book Images in America: Benicia, should have been attributed to the Benicia Historical Museum, not the Benicia Historical Society. The book is available for purchase at the Museum gift shop at 2060 Camel Road, Benicia, 707.745.5435, beniciahistoricalmuseum.org.

Subscribe! Call 707.853.5226 or go to beniciamagazine.com Tweet, post or send your suggestions & ideas to: editor@beniciamagazine.com www.beniciamagazine.com Facebook.com/ beniciamagazine @Jeannesteinmann beniciamagazine

10 • Benicia Magazine

BeniciaMagazine.com • 11

Steampunk

Meets the Wild West

CURRENTS

at Annual Art Gala

By Sarah Rohrs Benicia’s arts community is one of its many treasures. When it comes to celebrating artists and their creations, it doesn’t get much bigger than the Arts Benicia Art Auction and Gala, an annual event with lots of dazzle and a bit of daring that always seems to make it onto everyone’s To Do List. This year’s signature fundraising event kicks off at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 24 at the Benicia Clock Tower, 1189 Washington St. in the Benicia Arsenal. With a theme that covers the Wild West, movies and Steampunk, there’s something for everyone. What’s more is that participants can expect a galloping ride of artistic fun. “Anyone who has come to an auction knows it’s really the best party in town,” said Arts Benicia Executive Director Celeste Smeland.

The theme of this year’s auction, The Wild, Wild West—Silver Screen to Steampunk, is one that should be an open canvas to fill with fun and enjoyment. “Our theme is really new and different. It’s going to be really fun and everyone’s excited about it,” said Smeland. Arts Benicia is expecting a lively, decked-out crowd ready to party and enjoy some good times. Partygoers are encouraged to come in costume, though they are not required.

Once again, 3 Stage Lighting will provide ambiance and lighting design. A small army of volunteers will work to decorate the Clock Tower and evoke the feeling of an old-time Western saloon. A DJ will play throughout the evening and provide general dancing music later into the night. The evening also includes hors d’oeuvres and dessert, silent and live auctions and Michael Van Auken’s popular photography corner. Rellik Tavern will pour the drinks.

12 • Benicia Magazine

The gala does far more than provide an entertaining night out on the town. It’s Arts Benicia’s primary fundraiser with proceeds supporting educational and cultural programming, teen arts classes, exhibits and keeping the doors open at its Benicia Arsenal gallery and offices. After expenses, last year’s gala brought in $24,000; this year’s goal is to meet that amount or more.

Art, of course, is at the forefront of the event. Benicia artists donate between 60 and 80 items to be auctioned off. Other auction items include “Adventure Packages” with restaurant coupons, Disneyland tickets, local wine and similar items. However, the art is the key. “The art work is all donated generously by our very talented community of artists who support us with our work,” said Smeland.

To give people a sneak peak of auction items, Arts Benicia will post an online review of both the silent and live auctions on its website. There will also be a “buy it now” feature of ten silent auction art pieces. During the event, art collectors and others are expected from throughout the Bay Area and Sacramento region. Tickets for the Arts Benicia Art Auction and Gala went on sale in mid-August at a cost of $45 in advance and $50 at the door. Tickets will be sold in advance on the Arts Benicia website at artsbenicia.org, or by calling the Arts Benicia office at 707.747.0131. Advance tickets are also sold at Bookshop Benicia; 636 First St. Sponsorships are also available. Those who are interested in providing an even greater level of support to Arts Benicia can call Smeland at 707.747.0131, or email celeste@artsbenicia.org for more information.

Photos: Curlique by Gina Telcocci; Seed Burst by Kerry Vander Meer; Bird 8 by Lawrence Fox; End of Day by Nikki Basch Davis

A Weekend of Fun and Fashion at

Unsung Heroes

8th Annual Runway Show

By Adriene Rockwell Abundant research proves that music has a profound impact in education. Music study stimulates both the creative and technical sides of the brain, increases confidence, improves behavior, enhances literacy, boosts academic success and attendance rates, inspires joy, and builds school morale. Gratefully, our district is home to two thriving band programs—but there remains a shortage of music programs, and a few unsung champions are making a difference.

Annabelle Marie, founder of the renowned children’s choir VOENA, believes that all children are born with the tools they need to be successful in music. In 2012, she launched VOENA in the Schools, a grant-funded pilot program for grades 1-5 at Robert Semple and Mary Farmar elementary schools. Now VOENA’s vocal training program also has a presence at Matthew Turner and Joe Henderson, encompassing all four elementary sites, and Annabelle teaches a women’s choir at Liberty High School.

Stan and Marriane Houston own Mozart, Einstein & Me (formerly ABC Music), and over the years have made significant contributions to subsidize music education in Vallejo and Benicia schools. In Benicia, they continue to donate musical instruments, help offset the cost of employing a band teacher for grades 4-5, and offer music scholarships for students in need.

When Justine Chadly’s son was at Mary Farmar, General Music was cut from grades 3-5, and there was no music for grades K-2. As a music educator and owner of In Harmony Music, Justine volunteered by teaching voice, percussion, and movement. PTG members raised funds to hire her at Robert Semple, and now she’s teaching again at Mary Farmar.

While Annabelle, Stan and Justine are collaborating to make the largest impact in our schools, they are just one movement in an Photo courtesy VOENA unfinished symphony.

Bringing together a cast of fashion talent can be a bit daunting; there is always the challenge to out-do oneself.

In previous years, fashion icon Patricia Field, of Sex and the City fame, brought her collaborator David Dalrymple and his designs to Benicia. Betsy Johnson sent her collection to us after previewing it in New York.

Benicia Fashion Runway is now in its 8th year, and five invited guest designers will bring down the house with their collections recently shown at New York Fashion Week. As in previous years, the designers competed on the Lifetime fashion reality series Project Runway. Coming from New York, Sonjia Williams, Fabio Costa and Layana Arguilar also appeared on Project Runway All Stars. Crowd favorite Richard Hallmarq (Season 11) is returning with his gorgeous collection of jersey knits and magnetic personality. Rey Oritz appeared on the spinoff series Under the Gunn, and is an L.A. designer known for his sexy creations.

The two-day event begins 6-8pm, Friday, September 16, with a "meet and greet" the designers at the Rellik Tavern, followed by a trunk show at Christina S. Find out about what goes on behind the scenes of the popular series and what it takes to be a successful designer. The ensemble will be available during the day on Saturday, September 17 and at 6pm, the grand finale runway fashion show and reception will commence. Each designer will be showing their current collection, which will be available after the show, on the runway. Each designer is also donating a garment from the collection for the fashion raffle, benefitting Benicia Soroptimist and their effort to build a safe house for women.

Tickets available at beniciafashionrunway.com or at Courtesy photo Christina S, 707.745.5125.

A Trio of

BeniciaMagazine.com • 13

A Special Concert at

Mare Island’s St. Peter’s Chapel

CURRENTS

Workshop Series to

Lift Your Life Makes Debut in Benicia The famous life coach and author Dr. Martha Beck says: “Perpetually doing, without ever tuning in to the center of our being, is the equivalent of fueling a mighty ship by tossing all its navigational equipment into the furnace.”

Offering practical tools for replenishing our spirit and tuning into our core being is at the heart of the groundbreaking new workshop series in Benicia called Flying in Formation Workshops to Lift Your Life.

Facilitators are seasoned life coaches, writers and healers. Three are Martha Beck-trained life coaches, one is a doctor who practices integrative and holistic medicine and another is a local writer and active community volunteer. All are what Beck calls “way finders,” dedicated to making positive change in their own lives in order to help pave the way for others.

Yes, the “Flying in Formation” moniker is in honor of geese. “Few people realize that when geese fly in formation, they fly about 70% farther together than they would alone. And, when they honk, it’s to cheer each other on,” says event organizer Adriene Rockwell. “This has been the spirit of the entire project. It started as a nickname for the team, and then became the natural title for the series.”

The five Flying in Formation Workshops to Lift your Life are held on consecutive Saturdays, September 17 though October 15, 2016, 10am-noon. All workshops are held at Carter’s Biz Cafés in the beautiful, historic Commanding Officer’s Quarters building in Benicia. Price is $27 per workshop or $105 for all five. Brickspace, a building and learning center, is offering free drop-in play for children of registered participants (must be potty-trained).

For more information, see flyinginformation.org, or the Flying in Formation Facebook page.

14 • Benicia Magazine

By Sarah Rohrs Courtesy photo Beauty will be in the air and on display during a special concert at Mare Island’s St. Peter’s Chapel, the oldest naval chapel in the country, with its added bonus of a priceless collection of Tiffany stained glass windows.

The event is called All Things Beautiful and features the organ music of Tony Baldwin, who hails from England, and has been performing throughout California. A presentation on the Tiffany windows will also be offered during the event. The concert will cover a wide range of musical genres, beginning at 2:30pm, Sunday, Sept. 25 at St. Peter’s Chapel, 1181 Walnut Ave. Proceeds benefit the Mare Island Historic Park Foundation, which is tasked with preserving and promoting Mare Island’s rich historical legacy.

Born in London in 1957, Baldwin has led a musical life and nurtured a lifelong love of organ music. He was a boy chorister at Southwark Cathedral, and became fascinated with the organ at age 10. It was then that he decided his goal was to become a cathedral organist. His resulting studies and career have allowed him to play the organs at both Westminster Abbey in London and Grace Cathedral in San Francisco.

He has performed all over California since 1997. Baldwin has also served as the Organ Scholar of Trinity College at Oxford University, and earned his BA and MA in music from Oxford. He has extensive experience teaching and training, and has published nearly 100 works, some choral and some organ. These days, in addition to composing and freelancing, he is an Examiner in Composition for the Royal School of Church Music in England.

Tickets for the concert at St. Peter’s Chapel are $15 each and may be purchased at the Mare Island Museum, located at 1100 Railroad Ave. on Mare Island, or by calling 707.280.5742 or 707.557.4646. Tickets may also be purchased at the Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum at 734 Marin St. in downtown Vallejo, or at the Visit Vallejo booth in the Vallejo Ferry Building found at 289 Mare Island Way.

By Adriene Rockwell, photo by Malcolm Slight The first time Pat Hall visited Benicia 26 years ago, she fell in love with the city. Having grown up in Orange County, she was startled when a public transit bus slowed down to let her cross the street.

“People were so welcoming, and so eager to share stories about the town’s rich history,” she recalls. As it turned out, Benicia was the ideal place for this art school graduate to set down roots.

Although she moved to Vallejo some years ago, she remains a beloved art teacher at Benicia Middle School. Ms. Hall teaches drawing, painting, sculpture and stagecraft—the art of building sets— for the advanced drama program. “Often times students feel like they need to already be good when they come to my class,” says Ms. Hall.

“That’s the first thing I work on with them. Everyone is a beginner, no matter how old they are. It’s like learning guitar, it takes practice.”

Creating a safe place for students, Ms. Hall keeps her classroom open during lunch period—and it’s always full. She’s also the coordinator of the Where Everybody Belongs (WEB) program that trains one hundred 8th graders to mentor incoming 6th graders for the entire year. “These mentors could be the ones who change a life forever,” she says.

Equally important, says Ms. Hall, is the opportunity for visual art students to showcase their work. Each year she enters student work in the Solano County Office of Education Art Faire, and for six of the eight years they’ve entered, her students have won Best of Show.

Her efforts to engage her students in community shows led her to Arts Benicia where she helped revitalize the Next Generation exhibit for K-12 student work. She later served as a board member and chair of the Adult Education Committee, with the goal of creating “less intimidating” beginning art classes for adults. Now she teaches for the EcoArt Summer Camps for kids, and is a key volunteer for the annual art auction in September.

Pat earned her BA in Art (and also a BA in Communications) from Cal State Long Beach, but she didn’t always have confidence in her artwork. So, as she advises her students, she practiced and overcame her fears. Soon she was commissioned to draw portraits, and then she started playing with texture and humor, mixing images with new meanings. She describes her current work as “realistic with a twist,” and it’s been exhibited at Arts Benicia, Falkirk Cultural Center, Sebastopol Art Center and other regional shows.

About her art, she says: “The middle school job opened me to all of this. When I stopped playing it safe, and did what pleased me, that’s when I started selling my work. Never in my wildest life would I have imagined that.”

BIO

California Gold

By Elizabeth d’Huart, Executive Director, BHM Photo: Rendition of the Great Seal of the State of California, courtesy Benicia Historical Museum This beautifully composed and illustrated presentation rendition of the Great Seal of the State of California, adopted on September 29, 1849 by the convention that framed the Constitution of the State of California, was given to Mr. O.H. Singler of 828 First Street, Benicia, on April 19, 1930 by the then U.S. Secretary of State “with his compliments” (upon what occasion is unknown).

The original 1849 seal was designed at a cost of $1,000, and incorporated a number of symbols and literary references that the designer and author, Major R.S. Garnett, describes thus: “Around the bend of the ring are represented thirty-one stars, being the number of states of which the union will consist upon the admission of California.

The foreground figure represents the Goddess Minerva having sprung fullgrown from the brain of Jupiter. She is introduced as a type of political birth of the state of California, without having gone through the probation of a territory. At her feet crouches a grizzly bear, feeding upon the clusters from a grapevine, emblematic of the country’s peculiar characteristics. The sheaf of wheat and bunch of grapes were adopted as emblems of the Agricultural and Horticultural interests of the State. A miner is engaged with his rocker and bowl at his side illustrating the golden wealth of the Sacramento, upon whose waters is seen shipping typical of commercial greatness; and the snow-clad peaks of the Sierra Nevada make up the background, while above is the Greek motto, “Eureka” (I have found it) applying either to the principle involved in the admission of the State or the success of the miner at work.”

As someone who enjoys Greek history and Roman mythology, I am delighted by such a visually compelling design and the erudite expression of the many qualities and characteristics of our state as recognized and expressed by Major Garnett. Were the seal to be redesigned today, the miner’s bowl and rocker might better be replaced with an image of a silicon chip, and the grizzly bear has long since disappeared from the state (although still alive and well in Alaska and other states, plus Canada), but is otherwise as appropriately executed now as it was back in 1849.

California is still a golden state indeed, now ranked as the sixth largest economy in the world!

BeniciaMagazine.com • 15

B ACK W AR D S GLANCE

PAT HALL

Da Vinci’s Workshop in the Northern Nevada Desert

Story and photos

by Bob Ecker

White-grey and cracked yet firm, the Black Rock Desert playa stretches for miles in every direction. Flat as the dead ancient sea it once was, cold, hot, stark and often windy, for a brief week each year this barren moonscape is filled with exuberance and alive with humanity. All manner of noises, colors, banners and vehicles descend on this place to celebrate life in a temporary community. This is Burning Man, billed as radical self-expression and radical self-reliance. Or Clown College turned on its head.

The Black Rock Desert is a huge, dry lakebed in northwestern Nevada, near the little town of Gerlach, off of state highway 447. It’s absolutely in the middle of nowhere. But every year, thousands of returning pilgrims plus wide-eyed newbies come to this forbidding place to experience Burning Man. The name stems from “The Man,” a 50-foot tall wooden effigy erected in the center of the community, with theme camps and art installations jutting out in ever widening concentric circles. At the conclusion of the weeklong festivities, the Man is lit on fire.

This noncommercial happening, gathering, festival (take your pick) brings together a uniquely compelling and positively unpredictable combination of art, energy, Mardi Gras, fashion show, Halloween, road warrior, light show, heat, cold, wind, Castro Street, grunge, star gazing, dust, spontaneity, laughter, community, nudity, and retro clothing into one surreal, boundless landscape. The mix of imagination, crazy fun and physical challenge lures more and more people each year. “At Burning Man, everyone’s personal space is relaxed—you can walk right up to anyone, at anytime and it’s okay,” says Richard Woodsen from Phoenix, AZ. Indeed, the event is incredibly peaceful, particularly given the numbers of people who come to play.

Designed to be a wholly participatory gathering, every person is encouraged to participate and express his or her creativity. And Burners really do … something. For example, Red, a free form musician from Palo Alto, California, exhibited her own unique talents by playing her tuba while riding a unicycle up and down the playa.

Other Black Rock citizens celebrate their individuality through wild performance art, walking poetry, song, drumming, theater, dance, painting, sculpting and fire eating. Alongside dedicated artists, an army of carpenters, mechanics, and metal smiths, together with their friends and associates, team up to haul and build huge art installations out to the desert. Residents of this temporary city exert tremendous effort designing, transporting, and then constructing their artworks and theme camps on the playa. Then everything has to be carefully packed and taken away. The 2016 Burning Man theme is "Da Vinci’s Workshop.”

Burning Man began in 1986 as a small, improvised event of only 20 people at Baker Beach in San Francisco. Co-founder Larry Harvey designed the first man, and then burned it, in honor of Summer Solstice. It has since evolved into a major annual happening drawing an expected 65,000 participants this year.

Tickets this year were $390 each, while 1,000 special tickets went for a whopping $1200 per! Burning Man tickets are, however, fully transferable, and many people resell theirs through various channels such as Craig’s List.

What started as a small, local phenomenon has blossomed into a giant, worldwide event with collaborators arriving from around the globe. Theme

16 • Benicia Magazine

“Co-founder Larry Harvey designed the first man, and then burned it, in honor of Summer Solstice.” camps are fashioned from the boundlessness of human imagination and include rollicking raves, broadcasting radio stations, nude mass sing-alongs, mega-jungle gyms, actual swimming pools, living sculpture and other art forms that can only be imagined. If you can dream it, someone has probably built it and painted it electric purple. Virtually every camp invites outsiders to come in and enjoy the camaraderie. Money is eschewed at Burning Man and the concept of “gift economy” is highly encouraged (hint: a few tins of Altoids can go a long, long way). Burning Man is an easy place to meet new people and discover common ground underneath the paint, clothing, hair and music that might separate people “on the outside.”

Make no mistake, though Burning Man can be glorious, life on the desert playa is difficult and forbidding, even for a short period of time. Temperatures often exceed 100 degrees and the desert is brutally dry, sapping all fluids and requiring constant vigilance against dehydration. It can also get very cold and windy at night. Every person must bring in all his or her own food, water and shelter. Burning Man is a totally noncommercial event and only two items are offered for sale: ice—and coffee. “You can’t camp anywhere else like at Burning Man. It’s so free and inviting, yet civilized too,” said Jocelyn Kane of Berkeley. Her friend Loren Lunge, a systems analyst, likes the concept of “people seeking solace together.” She also enjoys having great martinis in the desert.

The flat Black Rock Desert is an immense space, smooth and extremely well suited for the endless array of vehicles that dot the scene. Bicycles are the transportation of choice and you can ride for miles, but other ingenious contraptions locomote around the desert too. People bring in colorful “art cars:” cannibalized old motorcycles, cars and funky trucks reborn as motorized insects, comic book characters, chariots and rolling, living pieces of art. Considering the remoteness of the location, the American love affair with the car is fully on display—like everything else at Burning Man.

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management administers this arid Nevada desert and the Burning Man organization works hard, hand in hand with the BLM to emphasize the important creed, “leave no trace.” All evidence of humanity must vanish after Burning Man has concluded. All garbage, all ashes, all clothing has to go. Every cigarette butt, every nail, discarded food container and water bottle— absolutely everything—must be trucked out by the participants. There are no exceptions.

Whether it’s playing naked cowboy croquet, listening to “blind” poetry, seeing stars you never new existed or watching UFOs drive around in the desert, Burning Man is an unforgettable sensory feast. An open mind, a powerful sense of humor, lots of water and a strong will to survive in the desert are de rigueur requirements.

As Vince Beardsley, artist and foundry owner from Denver said, “This is by far the best party in North America.”

ab le s Be yo n d Fr u it an d V eg et a t the

By Sarah Rohrs If variety is indeed the spice of life, the Benicia Farmers Market is plenty spicy. What could be better than fresh, seasonal bounty along our lovely stretch of waterfront? With a backdrop of live music and a lively atmosphere, the Thursday waterfront event on lower First Street features more than seasonal fruits and vegetables. Shoppers can now find an array of items to round out their dinner plates, kitchen cupboards and even their bathroom shelves.

The Benicia Main Street Program has made an extra push to bring in varied vendors as part of its effort to stage a full-serve market. “We’re always looking at ways to improve our market,” said Main Street Program Executive Director Nancy Martinez. Some of the more unusual items this season include grass-fed beef, fish, vegan lavender hand sanitizer, and homemade cold summer soup.

The Benicia Certified Farmers Market is in its 24th season, and runs 4-8pm on First Street between B and D Streets through Oct. 27. An array of booths offer farm fresh produce and fresh cut flowers along with arts and crafts, specialty foods, baked goods, food trucks, children’s activities, jewelry, home improvement services and information about city services and community groups.

Two new vendors represent a trend to offer just about anything you might need to prepare a meal. Flying Cow Farm from Esparto, north of Winters in Solano County, features a number of cuts of grass-fed beef that come from cows fed exclusively grass in pastures. This is in contrast to most cows that start off eating grass, but are then “finished off” with grain in large commercial feed lots. Owner Ewa Sobilo, who runs the farm with her husband, sells a variety of steaks, filets, shanks and ground beef. “It’s been very positive. A lot of people are thanking me that I’m there at the market,” she said. Interest is so high that she is offering a tour of her farm Oct. 9. People can sign up 18 • Benicia Magazine

at her booth or visit the Flying Cow Farm Grass Fed Beef page on Facebook.

Another new vendor is Freshway Fish from Roseville, which sells fish caught from the California and Pacific Northwest coastline at 40 different farmers markets in the region. In Benicia, shoppers can pick up pre-packaged halibut and salmon steaks, fish spreads and other fish. Jeremy White, a member of the family-owned business, said smoked salmon is the most popular item. “Once people try it they are hooked, and they come back again and again,” he said. After three weeks in Benicia, people are still getting used to Freshway Fish. “Every time we start a new market it’s challenging. This one has a lot of foot traffic, which is good. We did get a lot of good feedback from customers. Hopefully, it will be a good market and be good for us,” said White.

Soup is typically not synonymous with farmers markets, but Supper’s On, run by Benicia’s Michelle Heberling, has cold gazpacho and hot soups, too. Skin care products are common, but new vendor Kim Emanuel and his Luminance Skin Care line offer something different. All the products he makes, in the Benicia Business Park, are organic, vegan and made with raw ingredients. Healthy ingredients are also the basis for Way to Life bread, granola and other baked goods.

What dining table doesn’t benefit from a vase of flowers? Madrona’s Flowers offers a seasonal selection each week. Additional flower and other vendors could easily set up a booth in Benicia, but Martinez said in some cases, it’s not the “more the merrier.” Too much competition can, at times, mean no one makes much of a profit. The Benicia Farmers Market has 60 vendors total. “It’s definitely a nice mix and everyone’s great to work with,” Martinez said.

For more details visit Benicia Main Street inside the Southern Pacific Depot Building at 90 First St. or call 707.745.9791.

Achadinha Cheese Company Chay’s Farms – Vegetables and berries Diaz Farms – Grapes, nectarines, peaches, plums, apricots, cherries Flying Cow – 100% grass fed beef Goldrush Bay Area Honey Great Valley Poultry – Cage free organic eggs and pasture raised eggs and duck eggs Lujan Farms – Apples, apricots, cherries, nectarines, peaches, persimmons, plums, pluots, quince Medina Berry Farms – Strawberries, blackberries, raspberries Medrano’s Flowers Rainbow Orchard – Blueberries, blackberries, wine Resendiz Farms – Tree fruits, tomatoes, onions, melons, grapes, squash Rose Lane Farms – Almonds, apples, pears, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumber, garlic, herbs, lemons, onions, tomatoes, peppers, flowers, pumpkins, winter squash Sunshine Farm – Vegetables and fruit Gourmet Prepackaged Foods Angelina’s Family Kitchen – Biscotti, cookies, macaroons Best Damn Nuts – Artisanal nuts Cobblestone Bakery – Variety of baked goods Fairyella Ice Pops – Organic, healthy ice pops Fox & Fawn Bakehouse – Cupcakes and pies in jars FreshWay Fish – Fresh fish fillets, smoked fish, ready-to-eat seafood items Gourmet Temptations – Mustard blends, marinades and sauces, fruit curds and jams, dessert sauces, honey, aged balsamic vinegars, blended olive oils, handmade pasta and gluten free pasta Hummus Heaven – Hummus and dips, pita bread and chips Sukhis Gourmet Indian Foods – Samosas, naans, paranthas, naanwich, curries, tandooris, various spices Sustainable Sweets – Fruit jams, pies, breads, pie fillings, preserves Talk Story Foods – Olive oils, balsamics, vinagers The Salsa Chick – Salsa and tamales The Uppercrust Bakery – Baked goods Way to Life Foods – Granola, vegan cinnamon rolls, cookies

KEEP CALM AND

CARRY ON

WITH

hristina

trawbridge

FOR CITY COUNCIL As a small business owner, Christina understands the importance of economic development to generate revenue, in order to retain services that Benicians have come to expect and rely on.

Christina believes in the strong partnership Benicia is fortunate to have with the Police and Fire departments. Safety First! Councilwoman Strawbridge recognizes that any decision, including Crude by Rail, must be based on the safety of the community.

By not taking compensation or benefits as a City Council Member, Christina has saved the City approximately $125,000.00. She will continue that pledge with a second term.

Christina’s successful work with non-profits, including the Benicia State Parks, Benicia Soroptimist (winning the prestigious Ruby Award for her work on behalf of women) and fundraising for the Community Action Council, she will continue her dedication to those in need.

During Christina’s term of office, Benicia has experienced the long-term effects of the "Great Recession" and a 4-year drought.

She has worked hard to ensure the fiscal viability of our city with a healthy budget reserve. Working with city staff and the community, Benicia has become a leading California city in water conservation.

Paid for by Christina Strawbridge For City Council 2016, FPPC# 1339457

Christinaforcitycouncil.com BeniciaMagazine.com • 19

9th Year Anniversary!

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I agree with citizens and businesses that the proposal for up to 800 units of housing close to industrial use and distant from the city raises serious issues of sustainability.

Prolonged drought affecting our water supply and the need to strengthen our industrial park are primary challenges. Extending residential into our northern area would tax our city’s resources.

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Maintaining quality city services for our existing population is key.

If the Northern Gateway proposal comes to the City Council, I’ll be asking lots of hard questions and I intend to get answers.

I hope I’ll have your vote.

Vote for STEVE YOUNG on Nov. 8 FPPC# 1384682 Paid for by Steve Young for City Council

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 21

INTERVIEW WITH

William “Tags” Tageson

By Sue Sumner Moore Photo by Malcolm Slight You’d expect to see someone like William “Tags” Tageson in news footage. Maybe on a ship’s deck as a black box is retrieved from the depths of the Indian Ocean. Or training fishermen how to properly contain oil in the Gulf of Mexico. Or perhaps working to raise a World War II ship-turned-restaurant that sunk off the shore of Alaska.

The Benicia resident has done all these things. His 50-year career has focused on responding to maritime emergencies—ships that have run aground, oil spills in waterways, aircraft crashes at sea. He’s written manuals on how to contain and clean up oil following a spill.

Tags now spends most of his work time traveling the world to train people from the Navy, Marines and private companies on oil spill response, but he still goes out to spills occasionally.

“A few weeks ago, I got a call for a small spill in the Gulf, but I was in Japan teaching a class and I couldn’t go,” he says.

Tags’ career began in 1965 when he entered Officer Candidate School with the U.S. Navy. He learned diving and salvage skills during in his 21 years in the service.

Plaques from various ships decorate his basement work-out space, and his benchpress bar is weighted with anchor chain rather than the usual weights. Tags was a lieutenant commander at the Concord Naval Weapons Station when he retired from the Navy in 1986. He began consulting work in 1988.

Tall, lean and with a distinctive military carriage, Tags warmly recalls memories of diving to inspect hulls when ships ran aground, running around the South Pole while there to work on spill response plans, cleaning up oil in Coos Bay, Ore., when a freighter split in two—and all the characters he met along the way. And yet one particular dive stands out for Tags. It’s one he did for fun last year outside Seattle.

He pulls out his phone to show a video of his older daughter diving in old-time equipment, including a Mark V Navy diving helmet.

“You have 200 pounds of gear, you have to have two people to dress you,” he explains while sitting in his home overlooking the Carquinez Strait. “The last time I dove hard hat was in the 1960s. All the diving and salvage work with the Navy was fun, but to do this with my daughter was the highlight.”

Tags, 73, is married to Elizabeth, a local real estate agent. The couple moved to Benicia in 1981 and raised their two daughters here. .

22 • Benicia Magazine Interview

What stands out about your early days in diving and salvage with the Navy?

When I was on the Reclaimer, we went out to free the Norwich Victory, which had run aground on Triton Island in the South China Sea between the Philippines and Vietnam. It was 1966, and I learned what to do from old, gnarly warrant officers. …

There were other, smaller ones in between, but my second big job was when I was on the Conserver.

We went out when the Excellency went aground in the exact same spot—well, within 100 yards of the other one. Ships tried to skirt these islands and didn’t make it. You have to offload all the fuel and offload all the cargo and they lighten up.

While we were at the Excellency, we were doing a dive to check for hull damage and we came across two cases of white label San Miguel beer. There were loose bottles scattered around. So the other diver—old Doc Thomas, he was the ship medic— and I picked them up and brought them back to Hawaii. It turned out that about two-thirds of them were full of salt water and No. 6 fuel oil.

And there was the salvage work we did in Vietnam. I had two tours there.

What did you plan to do when you retired from the Navy?

I wasn’t sure what I was going to do. My wife and I owned a shop on First Street—Imports by the Bay— for about five or six years until 1990. I helped out there, but I didn’t want to do that the rest of my life.

So I started consulting in 1988.

When did you learn how to clean up oil spills?

I learned when I was the West Coast and Pacific rep for the Navy’s supervisor of salvage. I got a sub-specialty in teaching and got technical expertise for oil spill response.

There were a lot of oil spills in the 1970s. I was on the West Coast, the East Coast—everywhere. Whenever a ship goes aground, there’s a lot of oil. Whenever there’s a national spill, as in the Gulf Coast or the Exxon Valdez, all the Navy’s skimmers and booms and boats and people go out.

I’ve responded to more than 20 oil spills over the years.

Did you work on the Gulf spill?

I was a technical advisor, and I did a lot of work in the field for that. I was right there getting my hands dirty. We were working with fishermen who didn’t know how to work the equipment, so I was with them showing them what to do.

It was nonstop for 29 days, then I took a week off because my daughter was graduating from high school and another week to go on vacation with my family. Then I went back for another 29 days straight. It was hot and humid there—I don’t care to ever go back.

The amount of oil that made it to the shoreline was negligible compared to the Exxon Valdez.

Elect

FOR MAYOR

Did you respond to the Exxon Valdez accident?

I didn’t. The day it happened (March 24, 1989), I was on a C5 going to Okinawa to search for an Air Force helicopter that had crashed in 1,200 feet of water. I was there for two months.

What search and recovery work stands out in your memory?

All the jobs I did were remote and fun. … I was a technical advisor to South African Airlines for their 747 crash off Mauritius in 1987. That was a 30-day search. We found the cockpit voice recorder and a good portion of the plane at 14,500 feet, more than 1,000 feet deeper than the Titanic. We were using remote-operated equipment to search. This was before there were static satellites. We had to wait for one to pass over to get our position on Earth so we could stay on track and not miss anything.

What motivates you to keep working?

I really like what I do. I read something a long time ago: “Happiness is doing what one likes and not liking what one has to do.” That’s what I think as well. I just continue to do what I want to do.

I enjoy the travel—even more with my family. I’d always hurry home from my work trips because I was missing my family. The best part of traveling is the people you meet. People get along, governments don’t.

Any plans to retire?

My contract with Navy expires in May next year, and I’d like to taper off starting then. I might still teach a class or two.

What do you do to relax?

I don’t know if I’m able to relax. …

I like to read. Elizabeth and I watch movies and have popcorn to really relax.

I make quilts now. I’ve made one for each of my daughters with all their gymnastics and school stuff. Every stitch is a stich of love.

4 GENERATIONS IN BENICIA - Mark, with his mom, his niece (Maria Galligan), and great-niece (Samantha Galligan)

PROVEN LEADERSHIP and INTEGRITY Mark and Michele have lived in Benicia for nearly 35 years. Their two children attended elementary, middle and high school here; now both own homes in Benicia. With four generations of Mark’s family living in town, he is keenly aware of the issues facing residents of all ages.

As Vice Mayor, Mark shares the same goals as many Benicians, such as balanced budgets, high standards for public safety, top-notch schools and education for our children, and maintaining our small-town charm.

MARK HAS DEMONSTRATED Effective leadership and uncompromised integrity Support of local businesses and economic development A fair, common sense, no-nonsense approach to decision-making The ability to thoughtfully consider all sides of an issue Paid for by Benicians For Hughes For Mayor 2016, FPPC# 1378322

Mark Hughes will be a Mayor who has broad community support, with the integrity to stand tall and be both responsible and accountable. markhughesformayor.strikingly.com

BeniciaMagazine.com • 23

Celebrating

SCOTTISH HERITAGE and

CULTURE at Annual Festivals 24 • Benicia Magazine Trends

By Madra Rue Each year during spring and summer, you can find clans gathering to celebrate their heritage through a variety of cultural events across California. Scottish highland games have become synonymous with Scottish and Celtic culture. It’s true that the largest games still take place in Scotland, but the Bay Area is host to the largest highland games in the Northern Hemisphere, the Scottish Highland Gathering and Games in nearby Pleasanton, Labor Day Weekend, September 3 & 4.

The Caledonian Club of San Francisco has been hosting the games since 1866, which are held every Labor Day at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton. The twoday festival was started over 150 years ago to keep Scottish traditions and games alive. While the games have become emblematic of kilts and heavy athletics, there are actually a large variety of activities for everyone to enjoy whether you can trace your ancestry to a Scottish clan or not.

Highland gatherings would not be complete without traditional games. Sometimes referred to as “heavy games,” the events include the caber toss (a long pole that has to be lifted and tossed end over end), and the stone put, which is like the shot put but done with a large stone. These and other field events test competitors’ strength and skill. Not limited just to

the men, each event has a class for women, which is just as exciting to watch.

Music, including bagpipes, is also an important part of the games. Piping and drumming competitions include drumming and solo and piping bands. At the close of each day all the pipers and bands gather in front of the grandstand in the massed band show. This is a chance to see more than 700 pipers and drummers marching in formation and playing traditional piping tunes. Highly recommended.

In addition to bagpipers, there are numerous venues throughout the fairground hosting a variety of Celtic bands.

My personal favorite is the sheep dog trials. This is a wonderful chance to see highly trained border collies doing what they love to do—herd sheep. Owners and their dogs test their ability to communicate their way through a set of tasks that involves herding several sheep through obstacles and into a pen. In addition to the dogs, there are exhibits for falconry, highland cattle, and an area for Scottish living history.

For the true fan of Scottish culture, there’s also an event here in Solano County: the 16th annual Dixon Scottish Highland Games & Gathering. Although the Dixon event is smaller, there are many activities planned including athletic competitions, music, dancing, food, exhibits and more, from 9am to 5pm, Saturday, September 24.

If you are of Scottish descent, you will enjoy learning about Scottish clans and traditions. If you are not, you will have a great time learning about the many interesting aspect of Scottish culture—and besides, it’s the perfect opportunity to wear that kilt that you always wanted to wear.

For tickets and other information, including additional California Highland festivals, visit: Scottish Highland Gathering and Games, Pleasanton, thescottishgames.com Dixon Scottish Highland Games & Gathering, scotsindixon.org California festivals, seecalifornia.com/festivals/ california-scottish-festivals.html.

Photos courtesy Caledonian Club of San Francisco

BeniciaMagazine.com • 25

Expanding 13TH ANNUAL

Experiences Wednesday September 14 6-8:30pm Jackson Street in Benicia's Historic Arsenal Tickets $40

Wine Tasting & Artist Open Studios A community event benefitting Liberty High School and other youth programs

For tickets and other information visit

expandingexperiences.info Sponsored By Rotary Club of Benicia, Arts Benicia and Benicia Unified School District

26 • Benicia Magazine

& Directory

Business

Professional

License #748221

CHARLIE’S ATTIC

Lunch, afternoon tea, housemade desserts, fine teas & tea accessories

Camellia Tea Room

828 First Street • Downtown Benicia 707.746.5293 camelliatearoom.com

Mexican Food 640 First Street 707.746.7830

Interior/Exterior Residential & Commercial Painting and more!

707.747.0427 • hobsonpainting@gmail.com

Collectibles-Antiques-Music Consignment and eBay drop-off 632 First St., Benicia

707.205.6960

hobsonpainting.com

Steve McClure 560 First St., Ste C103, Benicia

www.stevemcclure.net 707.745.0848

Free package limited time offer

Avanti Photography 707.746.7777 932 Grant Street, Benicia

CA Contractor Lic. # 943231

ANGIE’S LIST Super Service Award Winner 4 years in a row!

Heritage Pantry & Spice SPICES & RUBS

707-746-7958 • 925-969-0133 hiremyhusband.com

CST#2015129-10

New Location

Michael Trahan • Interior Design www.michaeltrahan.com 707.748.1080

An associate of Black Diamond Travel

exp. 9/30/16

(707) 742-4142 364 First Street, Downtown Benicia heritagepantryandspice.com

Furniture, Collectibles & Household Items

Putting the HUMAN TOUCH back into travel planning

Lisa Koenen 707.748.7705 • 800.225.7750 www.travelfullcircle.com

Special on grilling sauces & marinades!

Your Benicia Dentist

172 East D Street, Benicia 707.745.3820 downtownbeniciadentist.com

929 First Street

Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 11am-6pm PLUS Frequently open until 10pm

707.745.4565

BeniciaMagazine.com • 27

43nd Annual

Newly Added Wine Garden!

Featuring over 150 artisans & crafters!

Saturday, Sept. 19 10am-4pm FIRST STREET Downtown Benicia

(I-780 to Central Benicia Exit)

Benicia Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 707.745.2120

Photo: Sonoma Harvest Fair

9/1-9/4 Benicia Plein Air Gallery 307 First Street, Benicia This group show at Benicia’s Plein Air Gallery features 12 artists’ perspectives on Benicia’s historic Train Depot Building at the foot of First Street.

Beniciapleinair.com 707.319.1136

Arts Benicia Presents Order + Chaos

9/1-9/11 Arts Benicia Gallery 991 Tyler Street, Suite 114, Benicia In Order + Chaos, twenty artists will display work chosen by San Francisco gallerist Catharine Clark in an eclectic exhibition that investigates the inherent paradox between order and chaos and the creativity that is part of, and issues from, that struggle.

Artsbenicia.org 707.747.0131

A Wonderful Place For Gifts

OPEN EVERY DAY 700 First St. Benicia, CA 94510 707-745-0254 www.studio41.com

Third Annual Benicia Film Festival

9/2-9/4, all day Downtown Benicia, various locations Benicia Arts and Culture Commission is sponsoring this event, featuring three days of world-class films with several award winners along with food and wine. Films varying in genre will be screened at the Benicia Veteran's Hall and the Majestic Theatre. Visit the website for schedule and tickets.

Beniciafilmfestival.com 707.746.4358

151st Scottish Highland Gathering and Games

9/3-9/4 Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton A long-running celebration of Scottish culture, traditions, competitions and entertainment for all the family to enjoy! Labor Day Weekend, sponsored by the Caledonian Club of San Francisco. thescottishgames.com

…closer than ever 1350 Hayes St. Ste. C-4, Benicia, CA

707.742.4444 707.690.7672 www.beniciatransport.com

28 • Benicia Magazine Calendar

Sept

Benicia Plein Air Gallery Presents There’s Something About the Depot

Sing a Story with SF Opera

9/10, 10:30am Benicia Public Library 150 East L Street, Benicia For ages five and up, this interactive program presented by a member of the San Francisco Opera will feature scenes from The Magic Flute. Come prepared to sing!

Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

Benicia Art Walk

9/10, 3-6pm First Street, Benicia Enjoy strolling First Street and visiting six different galleries with the Benicia Art Walk Banner. The Art Walk takes place June-October.

Sponsored by visitbenicia.org and downtownbeniciaalliance.com.

Facebook.com/BeniciaArtWalk

Expanding Experiences: Wine Tasting & Artist Open Studios 9/14, 6-8:30pm Historic Arsenal Artist Studios Jackson Street, Benicia Expanding Experiences is the premiere Wine Tasting & Open Art Studio event, sponsored by the Benicia Rotary Foundation and Arts Benicia. The proceeds are used to provide opportunities to reach atrisk and other youth through music, the arts and other life-expanding experiences. Enjoy premiere wines and support the students of Liberty High School.

Beniciarotary.com 707.743.0143

Visions of the Wild Festival

9/15-9/18, 10am-11pm Art Exhibits open 9/9 Empress Theater 330 Virgina Street, Vallejo This third annual film and arts festival takes place in downtown Vallejo. It brings artists and conservationists together to celebrate various aspects of the nature and wildness. This year’s theme is “Wild in the City.” Events include high-caliber films, art exhibits, speakers, field trips, coastal cleanup day and much more. Most events are free. See website for complete list of events, art openings and locations.

Visionsofthewild.org

ember

2016 Events

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

Dixon Scottish Highland Games & Gathering

9/24, 9am-5pm Dixon Fairgrounds 655 South First Street, Dixon Scottish athletic competitions, Scottish Highland and Irish StepDancing performances, find your Scottish ancestry at the many clan information tents, children's games, whisky tasting program, living history displays, Scottish animal exhibits, after-games Ceilidh music party and barbecue and a wee bit more! scotsindixon.org

John “Sherm” Passalacqua

Passalacqua Funeral Chapel 901 West Second St., Benicia 707-745-3130 www.passalacquafuneralchapel.com Greg Silva

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

Benicia Wine Walk

9/24, 1-5pm Up and down First Street, Downtown Benicia Stroll First Street on a beautiful autumn afternoon and taste over a dozen wines being poured inside downtown shops.

Beniciamainstreet.org 707.747.9791

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

Arts Benicia’s 24th Annual Art Auction and Gala Benicia Fashion Runway Weekend

9/15 in the evening; 9/16 & 9/17, all day Christina S Fashion Destination 370 First Street, Benicia Benicia Fashion Runway Weekend is back with five Project Runway All Star designers. Meet and greet the designers on Friday evening, then enjoy trunk shows and a Grand Finale Runway Show on Saturday at Treasury Commons Plaza. A portion of proceeds benefit Soroptimist International of Benicia, for a Woman’s Resource Center and Safe House. Purchase tickets online or in-store.

Christinasbenicia.com 707.745.5125

Coastal Cleanup Day

9/17, all day Benicia Beaches Every year, on the third Saturday in September, people join together at sites all over Benicia to take part in the State's largest volunteer event, California Coastal Cleanup. Find volunteer info at recycle.solanocounty.com.

Coastal.ca.gov/publiced/ccd/ccd. html

43rd Annual Fine Arts & Crafts Fair

9/17, 10am-4pm Downtown Benicia, beginning at First & G Streets Artisans & crafters will set up booths all along First Street starting at G Street. Vendors are prescreened to ensure a quality event with an extensive selection and variety of fine arts & crafts. This year’s additions include a Wine Garden and Rest Area, sponsored

by Benicia Main Street.

Beniciachamber.com 707.745.2120

9/24 Benicia Clock Tower 991 Tyler Street, Suite 114, Benicia The Art Auction & Gala is “the best party in town.” The evening’s festivities will include hors d’oeuvres, a fabulous photo corner, silent and live art auctions, music, dancing, and dessert.

This event is also Arts Benicia’s biggest fundraiser. The revenue it generates is crucial for supporting Arts Benicia’s exhibitions, art classes, children’s programs, and special events. This year’s theme is “Wild, Wild West: Silver Screen to Steampunk.”

Artsbenicia.org 707.747.0131

Vallejo Food Truck Mania

9/28, 4-8pm Vallejo Waterfront, 289 Mare Island Way The City of Vallejo, Askari Sowonde Productions and SactoMoFo present Food Truck Mania, ncluding a delicious assortment of gourmet food trucks from all over northern California, live music, family friendly entertainment, and tons of fun.

Sactomofo.com

...IT’S A FACT!

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS!

Residential & Commercial

CARPET • UPHOLSTERY TILE & GROUT CLEANING

25 OFF

$

Any Service (Min. charges apply)

800 First Street, Ste. A, Benicia • 707-746-8656

spotlesscarpetcleaning.net BENICIA HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Sonoma County Harvest Fair

9/30-10/2 Sonoma County Fairgrounds, 1350 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa The Harvest Fair marks it’s 42nd year of showcasing Sonoma County’s grand harvest, which continues to result in world-class wines, award winning beer and an abundance of culinary wealth. Each year, thirsty travelers from over thirty states are beckoned to Santa Rosa to participate in a complete farm to table experience, inspired by the county’s hard working farmer’s, ranchers, vintners and producers. harvestfair.org

Reasonable Rates!

Historic Hall & Formal Garden

Caterer’s kitchen, dance floor, parking, flexible set-up schedule Bring your own caterer & wait staff, extended weekend and evening hours ● 707-745-5435 ● 2060 Camel Road, Benicia, CA 94510 ● Beniciahistoricalmuseum.org

BeniciaMagazine.com • 29

ON DECK THIS SEASON FOR ALL YOUR BUILDING NEEDS.

The Game’s Afoot PRESENTS

by

In VALLEJO 707-557-3000

WWW.FOSTERLUMBER.COM

30 • Benicia Magazine

In FAIRFIELD 707-425-3400

or Holmes for the Holidays

Ken Ludwig

Directed by

Clinton Vidal

Decks Fences Arbors Retaining Walls

Benicia Family Owned & Operated.

Proudly Serving the East and North Bay Area

925.849.5089

www.gandgdeckandfence.com

Welcome to Tosch Dental

Feel at home—even in the dental chair!

Full-service dentistry | In-house lab, ensures perfect fit | Orthodontics | 50% off bleach with exam & cleaning | Relaxed and comfortable environment Proudly serving Benicia families for over 25 years.

Ronald J. Tosch, DDS l 118 West K St. 707.745.2130 l www.toschdental.com

BeniciaMagazine.com • 31

AFFORDABLE QUALITY Cabinets and Countertops

Celebrating 25 Years

We are extremely pleased with the Belvedere cherry wood cabinets and Cambria countertops purchased through Affordable Quality Cabinets. Although we did not change the size of the cabinets in our kitchen remodel, we have found the new cabinets provide much more space and much greater functionality than our previous cabinets. It's great to have a wonderful quality cabinet company providing excellent service right here in our small town.

-Diane and Don

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

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

Contractor's License # 678979

707-745-2100 aqc@aqchome.com