Benicia Magazine December 2022 Issue

How

By Jane Yuen

Margaret Bowles

Please Take a Bow!

Margaret Bowles, please take a bow!

Benicia Magazine’s founding art director, Margaret Bowles has decided to hang up her keyboard and mouse. She will be picking up her gardening and jewelry making tools as she retires from Benicia Magazine after 18 years and 216 magazines. Margaret Bowles and Jeanne Steinmann came up with the idea of creating the magazine in 2004, and at Margaret’s husband, Gerald’s suggestion, named it Inside Benicia. That name changed in 2008 to the current Benicia Magazine.

Margaret has been a graphic designer for many years, but she started her career quite differently, she was a ballet dancer and then an actor/ dancer. One of the things that Margaret will now have more time for is going to the theatre, ballet and opera.

Along with doing the graphics, Margaret has been in on every planning session, every month since the inception of the magazine, and that takes an enormous amount of time and creativity. While producing a monthly magazine, she also juggled other accounts including Clorox, Waste Management, Tegan Lighting, Salesian College Preparatory and

more. Margaret also raised two boys, Jerry and Sam. The boys went to Benicia schools and participated in a myriad of sports, which Margaret supported by driving and doing all the things that moms do to support their kids.

During these years, Margaret refined her craft, always keeping in touch with current graphic styling. Her love of design also led her to a new craft, jewelry making. Her jewelry reflects her personality, it is lyrical and delicate sometimes, and bold and interesting other times. We can’t wait to see where she takes it.

After the untimely death of her husband, Margaret started rethinking priorities, and began training her daughter-in-law, Cooper Mickelson, to take over the design of Benicia Magazine. What a creative duo! Cooper’s modern style grounded by Margaret’s experience has created the new style that you have no doubt noticed in the last 5 or 6 issues.

Margaret will be staying on in a senior adviser capacity, and will lend her touch to BeniciaMagazine into the future. Margaret, you are a rock star! Please take a bow. B

n From the Editor

Photo by Luke George

Along with doing the graphics, Margaret has been in on every planning session, every month since the inception of the magazine, and that takes an enormous amount of time and creativity.

giftguide

Christina S

370 1st St. Benicia 707.745.5125 christinasbenicia.com

International Fashion for the Holidays! Snuggle up in furs from Jayley of London. Let Joseph Ribkoff dress you for that holiday event. Scandal sweaters from Italy will be the perfect gift for that trendy person on your list.

Benicia Art Glass Gallery

309 1st St, Benicia Beniciaartglassgallery@gmail.com beniciaartglass.com

The decades-long tradition of blown glass art is back in Benicia again, thanks to a collaboration between glass artists Peter Stucky and Dana Rottler of Bay Blown Glass and Nick Nourot of Nourot Glass. The shop is filled with gorgeous glass gifts, classic and seasonal.

Roberto’s Fine Jewelry

519 1st St, Benicia 707.747.5262

Roberto’s is a jewelry store that contains fine gold, diamond, and color gemstone jewelry. Come in and choose a special gift for the holidays. See our collection of designs by Bay Area artist Edgar Haris. Jewelry design and repair available.

Le Sparkly Chateau

638 1st St, Benicia 707.361.5055 sparklyragz.com/le-sparkly-chateau

Le Sparkly Chateau is a European inspired home accent and gift store. We feature unique gifts, party accessories and décor for your home and garden. Holiday gifts and decor are arriving daily, shop early for that special gift.

The Little Art Shop

129 1st St, Benicia 707.771.6667 thelittleartshop.com

The Little Art Shop is your holiday gift shopping headquarters with the creative works of over 30 talented local Benicia and Bay Area artists. Stop by and enter to win a $50 gift certificate!

The Pedicure Sanctuary

300 Military W, Suite 302, Benicia 707.688.3855 thepedicuresanctuary.com

The Pedicure Sanctuary is a private natural nail studio specializing in luxury pedicures and hand painted art. We are dedicated to delivering a high-end experience with professional cleanliness and care. Seasonal nail art, anyone? Gift Certificates Available.

Sweetness & Light

301 1st St, Benicia 707.652.5599 sweetnessandlightflowers.com

We are passionate about sourcing local seasonal blooms and fill our vases with the bounty of the bay area. We paint with nature's palette to create bespoke works of art for your floral needs. Come in and browse our fall and winter foliage and holiday gifts.

In Harmony Music 101 East H St, Suite D, Benicia 707.492.5795 inharmonymusic.com

Give the gift of music this holiday season with a gift certificate for a semester of family music classes with In Harmony Music! Contact us for details: admin@inharmonymusic.com

Pink Arrows Boutique

374 1st St, Benicia 844.264.6456 pinkarrowsboutique.com

The Most Wonderful Time of The Year! Shop the season’s best and brightest and enjoy 15% off your order with code BeniciaMag2022 (Limited time-excludes select items-one per customer-ends 12/31/22).

Benicia

December

EVENTS

03

Friday 6-9pm

Holiday Open House and Tree Lighting

Downtown Benicia First Street merchants along with Benicia Main Street host this popular open house to celebrate the beginning of the christmas Season.

Saturday 10am-5pm

Super Saturday –Christmas Edition!

Aquarian Artisan Market

Benicia City Park

A day of live music, dancing, food and drinks, and holiday shopping with the best of the Bay Area's artisans and crafters! This is a free event.

Friday 7:30-11pm

A Candlelit Evening Benicia Historical Museum

The Benicia Historical Museum invites you to an evening of music, wine, and delicious appetizers. Groove to the sounds of Dennis Dove in the museum's Stone Hall, then find your way upstairs for a premium wine tasting experience in the Camel Lounge, paired with jazzy holiday favorites by Kevin Frazier.

Friday 7:30pm

Saturday 10am-3pm

Holiday Parade and Market

Downtown Benicia A parade of local marching bands, dancers, and the much-anticipated Santa Claus. The Holiday Market features handcrafted arts and crafts, and delicious food.

10 Sat.

Saturday 6pm-7:30pm

VOENA Concert: Voices of Peace

Mont La Salle

An experience bathed in candlelight with angelic voices of children singing in Victorian attire in the beautiful and historic Mont La Salle. Tickets are sold online and at the door.

Saturdays 10am-3pm

Visit Santa

Pedrotti Ace Hardware

Bring the kids and snap a photo with Santa!

Annual Winter/Holiday Concert with Diablo Regional Concert Band

Benicia Public Library Join us for a lively winter concert!

Friday 5-7pm

Indigo Workshop

Sweetness & Light

Enjoy a creative workshop in Sweetness & Light's gorgeous space.

BAR NONE

The Chocolate Toasty

The holidays are here and, frankly, I'm not ready for social encounters or this weather.

The only real way I know how to cheer myself up and help make everyone sleepy is to make a solid cup of hot chocolate.

This will require booze, marshmallow fluff and a food-grade blow torch, if you want to get crafty. I present:

The Chocolate Toasty

2 servings

3 cups of Milk/Non Dairy Option

1/4 tsp of nutmeg

1/2 tsp of Cinnamon

5 tbsp of Sugar

5 tbsp of powdered cocoa

1/4 cup of jar Marshmallow

Per Mug Measurements

2 oz of Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey or choice of Bourbon.

You will need your choice of Dairy or Non Dairy. I suggest, the thicker the better.

I'm going with good old vitamin D whole milk. Heat this in a pot and bring to simmer. Once the simmer has started, whisk and turn off your heat to prevent scalding. Liquid should be at least 115 F. Whisk in cinnamon, nutmeg, cocoa powder and sugar. Whisk to remove any clumps, to create a frothy liquid. Put to the side to cool for a few minutes.

In your favorite mug, add Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey, or choice of bourbon. Pour your liquid on top and leave about a 1/4 inch of space for the topping.

Take a generous spoonful (1/4 cup) of marshmallow fluff, also known as Jet Puffed to west coasters, and place gently on top of your liquid gold.

If you have a food grade blow torch, a little toast to the top will add flavor and really add to this drink. For our NA friends out there, it tastes just as amazing without the bourbon.

Tastes best when drinking with your dog by a fire.

Happy Holidays, stay safe and enjoy some you-time. B

n Maura Sullivan

Arts Benicia Presents

Jane Yuen Corich at Happy Life Pottery

n Jean Purnell

An exhibition of colorful abstract oil and cold wax paintings by Jane Yuen Corich will be featured at Happy Life Pottery this month as part of Arts Benicia Presents, a program of exhibitions by Arts Benicia members in local venues. Located at 632 First Street in Benicia, Happy Life Pottery sells artwork and gifts in a colorful boutique and provides instruction in ceramics. Corich’s works will be on display through mid-February.

Corich has been creating in a variety of media all her life. “I've made doll clothes and stuff like that since I was very young. I come from a big family with four very creative sisters, and making things was our activity.” Born and raised in Boston, Jane went to college at Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. She worked as a fashion designer and stylist there for 14 years, designing coats, skirts and sportswear.

Corich started seriously painting when she spent the summer in the South of France. “I was in between jobs in New York. I wanted to get into painting, so I just went and bought a set of paints. I started painting abstract. At the end of the summer, I was given a show of my paintings in a church there, and that kind of got me hooked. I continued painting while I was in New York and felt passionate about doing it, but it wasn't something you could really support yourself on.”

Eventually a shoe designer recruited her to California. When the company moved back to New York the next year, she stayed. “I met my husband here and wanted to focus on starting a

family. We moved from Oakland to Walnut Creek, where I was able to take art classes at Shadelands. I was raising my family, and I could do my artwork at night.”

Jane’s works include oil, oil and cold wax, acrylic, and mixed media; her primary medium is acrylic. Painting with thin layers of color, she creates an interplay of shapes and colors in her works. “My process is one of discovery. I seek a balance of composition and color and the ability to translate a narrative that intrigues me and holds together visually. In my mind, I'm always telling a story, a story about relationships.” The works at Happy Life were made after a trip to Eastern Europe. “I’m passionate about travel. That's where I got all the feeling of the colors for these works, I was inspired by the things I learned about where I was. I’m excited to be able to display them as a group.”

The multi-talented Corich also makes jewelry, quilts, and has been involved in costume design for local organizations. “Quilting was an art form that I didn't want to see go away. I used to make a couple of quilts a year, in between paintings. To me quilting is another form of painting, but with fabric, and I like the preciseness of it.” She got involved in costume designing for a local theater company when her kids were in high school, which led to a call from Contra Costa Ballet. “I don't know how they got my name, but I've been managing costumes for the Nutcracker for eight years. I’m on site for every performance. One year we counted 99 different dance costumes. Some of them are 30 years old and they're really beautiful. I keep all the costumes in good shape and when needed, I help design them.”

To see Corich’s works, visit Happy Life Pottery Wednesdays through Saturdays, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays, noon to 5 p.m. Corich’s works are also on display this month at the Village Theatre in Danville and the Moxy Hotel in Oakland. She is a contributing member of the Art Guild of the Delta in Brentwood. For more information, visit artsbenicia.org, happylifepottery.com, janeyuencorich.com, and on Instagram, @janecorichlovestopaint/ B

Conscious Consumption

Tilth & Oak and The Filling Station

n Bitsy Hall

Photo by Luke George

In recent years, conscientious shopping has become a marked theme in stores and products around the US. People are beginning to consider the impact of their purchases—is this product wrapped in too much plastic? Is it refillable? Rethinking our buying power has even shifted product availability at retail giants. Shampoo bars and biodegradable bags are popping up on the shelves of major chains. But retail giants can’t beat one thing for the conscientious consumer: shopping locally.

Supporting local business is both a community investment and eco-friendly habit. Your locally owned businesses keep taxes close to home and offer employment opportunities for your neighbors. From an environmental standpoint, small businesses often feature local products, requiring less transportation and less waste. For someone seeking to make more ethical and community based purchases, shopping local is a no-brainer. Luckily for Benicians, we have two new businesses offering an array of green products and refillable goods: Tilth & Oak and The Filling Station.

Tilth & Oak started during the pandemic. Like many, co-owner Michael Davis was laid off due to lack of work. His wife and co-owner, Bobby Crawford explained, “During his sabbatical from a regular 9-5, he started creating handmade gifts to sell online. A few months later, the concept of Tilth and Oak was born!” Davis created a website with curated and sustainable goods. His website became so successful that a thought crossed their minds: “This could really make a mark on our community!” And thus began the search for a retail space. Davis and Crawford decided on Benicia because they “fell in love with the people and charm” and knew Benicians would appreciate their mission of supporting local businesses and sustainability.

Tilth & Oak’s core value of sustainability is emblematic of the conscious consumption trend appearing across the states. Crawford says, “Our business model is an emerging concept throughout the country. We personally try to live by our core values and wanted to share that within our store. As the world shifts to more eco-friendly products for our planet, we want to be Solano and Wine Country’s destination for sustainable goods.”

Shoppers at Tilth & Oak can find artisanal products from other local businesses, a refill bar, reusable paper towels, ecofriendly home cleaning products, and even curbside compost solutions. Tilth & Oak is located in the Raley’s Southampton Shopping Center at 880 Southampton Road and is open Tuesday through Sunday.

Down the way, above the Chamber of Commerce on First Street is The Filling Station, Benicia’s new sustainable gift shop. Owner Kristen is a Benicia native with a lasting childhood vision of entrepreneurship. She recalls, “I have always dreamed of opening a business. When I was 9, I saw a classified ad for a frozen yogurt machine with my dad. He said, ‘We should open a shop!’ While it never happened, the idea of business ownership never left my mind.” While Kristen knew she someday wanted to own a business, she spent years working in data analytics and sales. Her career in sales familiarized her with the market and the dos and don’ts of boutique ownership. When her job came to an end, she reflected on her future career goals and landed on the guiding words of “community” and “entrepreneurship.”

When the owner of Benicia’s long beloved gift shop, Romancing the Home, passed away, Kristen knew she wanted to offer another source of gifts and household goods. Her store would offer locally sourced and American made products, goods from businesses that employ individuals with special needs, and eco-friendly items. Her decision to include a refill station came after her frequent trips across the bridge to a local zero-waste store. She wanted to bring the ease and ecofriendliness of refillable goods to Benicia, sans bridge toll.

Kristen acknowledges that sustainability can seem daunting when considering the many products we use on a daily basis. She explains, “I’m all about one step at a time. If you think about sustainability, it’s overwhelming. We can make small changes that can make a difference. My goal is to take the thought out of it and have you know that coming to me [The Filling Station], I’ve thought through 90% of the decisions that you might find overwhelming.”

The Filling Station’s current location at 601 First Street, Suite 250-D will be switching to a street level location on First Street at the beginning of 2023. Keep your eyes peeled on their social media (instagram @tfs_goods_and_gifts) to find out where! B

Holiday

n Caitlin McCulloch

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Whether you’d like to stay in town or venture out a bit, there are tons of options the whole family can enjoy this 2022 holiday season.

Super Local

Don’t miss the annual Holiday Open House on First Street to kick off the month right. On December 2nd from 6-9pm, Benicia Main Street and First Street merchants partner to host this event that’s free to the public. Treats and warm drinks, carolers, and other live entertainment await. Don’t forget to check out the star of the show: the Christmas tree at the end of First Street, which will be lit for the first time this season during the event!

Head to our town’s Christmas Parade & Holiday Market on December 10th from 10am-3pm. The parade begins at First and D Streets, traveling all the way through to its ending at H street. There will be dancers, marching bands, and the big man himself— Santa Claus. Treat yourself to some delicious food and browse handcrafted artisan items, too.

Northgate Church is once again putting on their Northgate Light Show! There are multiple nightly showings on December 1-4, 7-11, and 14-21, so one (or three) should fit the family’s schedule. The 12 sky beams, 200,000 LEDs, and three mega trees that are featured will wow adults and kids alike. Simply park your car, tune in to the provided FM radio station, and let Larry the Lightbulb guide you through the 30-minute show. This event is completely free, but donations to a community cause will be optional via Venmo. Snag your tickets at thisis.church/events/christmaslightshow.

Join the Benicia Ballet Theatre December 17th and 18th as they present The Nutcracker at Solano Community College. Starting at the wee age of three through adults, 60 dancers take you through this magical adventure of Clara, The Nutcracker, the Mouse King, and everything in-between. There are three showtimes to choose from, and tickets can be found on blogs. solano.edu/theater.

San Francisco

There’s so much to see and do in Union Square. Take in the enormously tall tree (think 80+ feet) and admire the iconic 7-story Macy’s building from outside. Inside you’ll find plenty of shopping for any last-minute gifts—for others or for yourself.

After you're done at Macy’s, hop over to the nearby Westin St. Francis. Head indoors to check out their charming holiday décor, including the famed 12-ft tall sugar castle.

A short car ride brings you to the Fairmont Hotel where you can view the most epic of gingerbread houses. This life-size, two-story creation boasts thousands of See’s candies and gingerbread bricks. You can even make a private reservation to dine inside of it!

For another magical food and drink option, stay and warm up with holiday tea in the hotel’s Laurel Court. Sipping on varietals like Vienna Eggnog and Frosty Plum Spice while you munch on miniature pumpkin-flavored Yule logs will surely get you in the holiday spirit. Reservations can be made at fairmont-san-francisco.com.

Walnut Creek

A quick trip over the bridge promises Scrooge’s spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come—all you have to do is head to A Christmas Carol at Lesher Center for the Arts. Running from December 8th through the 22nd, this classic is recommended for ages 6 and up. Tickets are going fast, so head over to lesherartscenter.org and grab yours today.

If ice skating is more your speed, don your gloves, beanies, and blades at Walnut Creek on Ice. This Civic Park rink is open from December 9th through January 16th. Reserve your skate time in advance at walnutcreekonice.com. Pro tip: you can even book skating lessons on select dates!

Photo by Kevin Berne

Sacramento

Presented by the Hallmark Channel, Enchant Christmas is truly something to see. Only eight cities across the country were chosen for this magical event, and our state’s capital is one of the lucky winners. Watch as Sutter Health Park is transformed into a winter wonderland, complete with an ice skating rink, a Christmas light maze, Santa, live music, a play place with Mrs. Claus, and a Christmas Village full of shopping delights. Adult elves can partake in drinks that come in a lightbulb-shaped cup, or grab a cozy hot chocolate that anyone will love. Now through January 1st, tickets can be found at enchantchristmas. com.

Dashing Through the Snow

Have a blast in some powder without going deep into Lake Tahoe at Boreal Mountain California. This is a one-stop shop for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing fun. You can book 90-minute tubing sessions with both tubes and parking included. Head over to rideboreal.com to secure your tickets.

However you choose to sail down the snowy peaks, warm up after at Northstar California. Enjoy live music on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays around the skating rink while you sit at a fire pit and munch on s’mores! B

It's the mostwonderful timeof theyear!

Photo courtesy of the Westin St. Francis

Give a Gift of the Season

n Genevieve Hand

This is the season of giving. It’s a time to make loved ones and friends feel special by giving meaningful trinkets and, perhaps more importantly, the gift of time together. It’s this convivial spirit that helps lift us out of the doldrums of winter; magically conjuring a sense of abundance during a historically barren and harsh time of year.

While it is traditional to extend warmth and gifts to the people close to us, perhaps this is the year we look beyond our local tribe and extend a kindness to a family in need. Many of us have felt the effects of the economy on our personal finances, and while it may mean a tolerable sacrifice of tighter budgeting and fewer trips to the coffee shop for some, for others the situation is more debilitating.

In Solano County, over 9% of our population lives below the poverty line, with women making up the majority of this statistic. With the cost of basics like food, shelter, and fuel skyrocketing over the past year, the thin margin by which these people live is being stretched to its brink, causing families to forgo non-essential items like holiday gifts for the kids. Thankfully, there are a few community organizations that can help.

from 4:30-6pm. This continues through the holiday season, along with their seasonal programs which includes The Giving Tree, which presents a Christmas surprise to a child in need.

Beyond Solano, The Kimberly Moore Foundation offers an Adopt a Letter program which allows donors to “adopt” a letter to Santa from children in need. The program was inspired by the founder, Kimberly Moore’s experience finding a lost letter to Santa from a 6-year old on the post office floor. The letter simply asked for food for the 6-year old’s family for Christmas. Through her foundation, donors can be “Santa” by granting the wishes of kids in need. For more information or to donate, visit kimberlymoorefoundation.org.

There are other community support programs that help folks in need throughout the year, but can be especially needed around the holidays. The Meals on Wheels program is one of these. Meals on Wheels of Solano County delivers nutritious meals to homebound seniors, helping seniors remain independent while providing nutrition for them and their pets, human connection, fall prevention and other resources.

To learn more or to donate or volunteer, please visit mealsonwheelssolano.org.

The Benicia Community Action Council is a non-profit organization that provides resources to those in need. Their holiday programs include:

Adopt a Family. Families-in-need are connected with local families, agencies, organizations and/or businesses who “adopt” them for the holidays. The families are presented with gifts and food.

“Home for the Holidays” Food Baskets. Nutritious, well stocked food gift baskets are created and provided to eligible low-income Benicia households at Christmas time.

Adopt a Senior. Carefully screened families and individuals are put in contact with a homebound senior who seeks companionship and camaraderie during the holiday season.

Benicia Cares for Kids. Benicia CAC conducts a community-wide toy drive to collect new toys and other presents low-income children request on their Benicia CAC Christmas Wish List.

To volunteer for any of these programs, call Benicia CAC at 707.745.0900. Donations can be made via PayPal and more information can be found at bencac.com. The Benicia CAC also offers other year-round programs.

St. Paul’s Episcopal has long offered their Feed the Hungry Community Meal, every Monday at Wednesday

There are also Family Resource Centers across Solano County, including in Benicia. The FRC is a communitybased center that provides information and referral services to families and children. Each FRC tailors its resources to best serve its respective community. FRC can be reached for an appointment at 707.746.4352.

Related Links www.beniciayouth.org www.childnet.org www.first5solano.org

Soroptimist International of Benicia is donating gift cards to the Benicia FRC for their Adopt a Family program so that families can choose items they need. The Liberty High School S Club is also hosting a fundraiser at the Holiday Open House and Tree Lighting so that they may Adopt a Family this season, as well.

These are just a few organizations lending a helping hand to those in need during the winter and holiday season. If you or people you know need help this season, do not hesitate to reach out. If you have the means to give either time or money to any of these programs this season, please do and know that you are making a difference. B

While it is traditional to extend

and

to the people close to us, perhaps this is the year we look beyond our local tribe and extend a kindness to a family in need.

BENICIA NEWS AND VIEWS

From Candy Canes to

Tonka Trucks

n Gene Pedrotti

Santa made his first appearance in my little world in the early ‘60s. We were five years old, Dean — my identical twin brother — and me. We were in the Rodeo Firehouse and the memory is indelible; who can forget meeting Santa? But what stands out sixty years later is how that community activity and others like it — the parties, festivals, and celebrations that define a small town – also create its identity. Meeting Santa that day turned out not to be a oneoff encounter. Santa and I became life-long friends; he taught me much of how great small-town life can be.

But before I continue, let me share this bit of important news. Santa is coming to Benicia! This December at Ace Hardware, we are proud to host Santa for three appearances, on the first three Saturdays in December: 3rd, 10th, and 17th. Children are welcome to sit in his lap, have a chat, and parents and loved ones can take a photo. Mark your calendar: 10am – 3pm each Saturday. After a long pandemic break, we are honored to have Saint Nick visit Benicia!

Back to the firehouse. Earlier that day, the Lions Club sponsored a free holiday movie at the Rio Theatre in downtown Rodeo. The program began with a series of cartoons but once the feature began, I went from entertained to scared-as-hell. Five-year old’s like cartoons — and there were two — but after that, the movie began with fire breathing dragons and I lost my nerve. It was a relief to leave the mythical English countryside and the creepy dragon when the movie ended.

That evening my father took us to the Rodeo Firehouse where, as the Tri City News had reported, Santa would appear. There in the engine bay, Dean and I walked around the huge, brightly colored red fire engines which matched our toys at home. What’s more festive than Santa and red fire engines?! After hot dogs, Santa appeared and we sat on his lap for the first time. That firehouse visit had a tremendous impact on my brother; at UC Davis, he interned at both City and campus fire

Isolated and alone we are vulnerable. But together, with patience, understanding and a willingness to listen and hear each other, we are stronger.

...

departments and after graduating, he joined the Phoenix Fire Department serving as a paramedic-captain for thirty years.

Later, as teenagers, we joined the Crockett Boy Scouts where we met Don Tacconi, a tall, strapping man who ran the tool room at the local sugar refinery. An Eagle Scout, Don was a natural raconteur and at meetings, campfires, or wherever there was a group gathered, he would often hold court telling stories. One stunned us. To a room full of scouts, he outlined in glowing detail the day when Dean and Gene “sat on my lap.” He did not share this with malice or wanting to haze us; rather, he spoke with affection that can only be described as small-town. Crockett was like a huge family where one celebrates milestones. He was both revealing and reveling in his role as Santa.

Don’s warmth blossomed into a lasting relationship. When I returned to Crockett to take over the hardware business, Don was there. A tool expert, he visited Pedrotti’s often, not to shop or talk shop, but to shoot the breeze and tell stories. With his wife, Marge, he has a side gig as the local engraver and that’s when the three of us started working together. Witnessing the slow decline of business in town, we were all deeply concerned and decided to organize a Chamber of Commerce.

What seems to be a common denominator of leaders like Don in many small towns is their love of community. Don served in many capacities – a fireman, Scout leader, union president, Chamber president, and as Santa. Assisted by a loving wife, they were a strong team, a positive force in a town. Like so many civic leaders, all work together in a tightly knit community to get things done.

As the political climate continues to heat up and as tempers flare, let us not lose sight that conflict puts our community at risk. Isolated and alone we are vulnerable. But together, with patience, understanding and a willingness to listen and hear each other, we are stronger. May Santa’s embrace of young children teach us how to embrace each other.

Happy Holidays!

Gene Pedrotti B

GrtefuladMovig Fo wrd

A Conversation with Lathan "Young Lay" Williams and his book ReveLaytionz

n Dr. Gethsemane Moss, Ed.D.

Photos courtesy of Lathan Williams

Bay Area Rapper Young Lay was on the rise of his career, landing a song on the movie soundtrack of New Jersey Drive, a 1995 Spike Lee, 40 Acres and a Mule production, written and directed by Nick Gomez. Lathan "Young Lay" Williams worked with notable artists such as Tupac Shakur, Mac Dre, and Ray Luv. One of Williams' songs, “All About My Fetti,” was featured in New Jersey Drive and was recognized by The Recording Industry Association of America for over 500,000 albums sold, achieving Gold status. From this high, Williams' motivation for life was ripped away, and he had to hit rock bottom in preparation for brighter days ahead.

From the outside looking in, it is easy to judge and often generalize while projecting our lens of experiences on the lives of others. In the case of Williams, the tragedy he endured at a young age resembles a Lifetime movie, yet he embraces a life of gratitude and forgiveness and is determined to help others. On his worst day, Young Lay never would have imagined that heartbreak and devastation were lurking close by.

Young Lay experienced the murder of his love and the abduction of his newborn son. The story, in his words, is now available on Amazon. The book ReveLaytionz by Lathan Williams is a brutally honest story about how Williams navigated this tragic time in his life that he still faces daily. Williams' story aired on an episode of Unsolved Mysteries in 1996. The case is now solved.

Here are some highlights from our conversation about his life:

What or who inspired you to become a rapper?

I was inspired in Junior High school when my friend asked me whether I wanted to sign up for the school talent show.

When did you decide that you wanted to pursue music? When we won 1st place at that talent show.

What goals do you have for your music career?

To branch off to being a music producer and start making beats for my songs.

What artist do you look forward to collaborating with?

I want to start collaborating with Rhythm and Blues singers and do some songs/albums with my folks from my community.

What advice would you give your younger self now that you have some life experience?

Be sure to take all contracts and music agreements to a music lawyer before you sign anything. Also, ensure you get your masters before leaving all studio sessions.

What are some of the most significant challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?

My biggest challenge was being incarcerated for 12 years while my son was kidnapped.

I overcame that by believing, hoping, and keeping faith in God.

Why did you decide now to write your story, and what do you hope readers gain from your book, ReveLaytionz?

I wrote a book so that the world would know my story and that if you don't give up hope and keep faith in God — he will heal you through it all.

How do you practice gratitude?

I practice gratitude through daily prayer and being kind to everyone. The things that I experienced could have broken me, but I was able to see a better life for myself.

What can our communities do about resources for those who have faced challenges around housing, addiction, or those formerly incarcerated?

Build more affordable homes and create more shelters with services. Having experienced homelessness and substance abuse, I needed help. My life was spiraling, and it took me hitting rock bottom to begin changing my life, finally.

Williams was transparent about his experiences and choices, sharing, "In 1999, I got arrested for armed robbery. I had to serve ten years of a 12-year sentence. My son, Le-Zhan, was still missing during this time, and I was really stressed mentally. I learned from the overall ordeal that if you are positive and patient and keep the faith, the Lord will give you all that was lost and all you need,” shared Williams.

Talk of the Town

Thank you to our Talk of the Town patrons:

Bruehol Benicia Brewing

Want to see your name here?

Join us on Patreon.com/Benicia_Magazine and select the “Talk of the Town” tier. You’ll get access to additional patron-only content and quarterly merchandise from Benicia Magazine, too!

Williams' son was abducted in 1996 at four months of age, and discovered living only two miles from Williams' girlfriend's home. Upon investigation, it was found that two of his girlfriend’s classmates committed her murder and Le-Zhan’s abduction, which led to their arrests.

During life's challenges, we all need a way to cope and carry on, and sometimes, our personal decisions can delay us from moving forward. Either way, it is through triumph over tribulations that we can learn to navigate life in a positive and conducive way that makes a difference in us personally and in the lives we touch.

At this stage in Williams's life, he advocates for helping others who have experienced substance abuse, incarceration, and being unsheltered. Williams stated, "People need to wake up and realize that if we help one another instead of looking down on certain people, this world would be a better place."

Williams is happily married and living in the Bay Area. The movie New Jersey Drive is available on Starz and other streaming platforms, and his music is available on streaming platforms. “All About My Fetti” has recently returned to the music community. ”All About Fetti” by DJ Gutta Butta and LaRussel featuring DaBoi is a regeneration of “All About My Fetti” by Young Lay, which featured Mac Mall and Ray Luv. With blessings from Young Lay, DJ Gutta Butta remixes the old with the new while uplifting the essence of one of the most successful songs of its time. B

My Adopted Treasures Holiday Pop-Ups

with Unique Sustainable Fashion at an Affordable Price.

Toddler, Girls and Women's Clothing and Accessories.

All Sizes.

Saturdays, December 10th & 17th

From 12 til 5pm and/or Book a one-on-one personal shopping experience with Kimberli.

RSVP via email or text

1350 Hayes Street, Benicia CA kim@myadoptedtreasures.com 925-808-8097

Rediscovering St. Paul's

The most beautiful building in Benicia is a church, St. Paul’s, at the top of First in Old Town. This grand old house of God with its heart redwood paneling, stained glass windows and hand-crafted vaulted ceiling is a must-see stop for every tourist who comes to town.

So, admittedly, it may seem a bit odd to feature St. Paul’s in a column entitled “Hidden Benicia.” Hidden, it is not.

Nevertheless, there are lots of “small, little details that most people don’t know about,” as Rev. Annie told me in a tour of the building one recent afternoon. And fascinating details they

People are the heart and soul of this church

Rev. Annie, as she likes to be known, is the charming and personable rector of St. Paul’s. Her business card reads, “The Rev. Annie Pierpoint Mertz,” but that’s a bit overly formal for the 37-year-old married mother of two, who also coaches her son’s soccer team here in town.

Dressed on the day we met in jeans, sneakers, and a black clergy shirt with a white collar, Rev. Annie professes not to know as much about St. Paul’s as the church’s official archivist, but she knows quite a bit. She walked me through some of its many noteworthy features, beginning with:

That spectacular ceiling, built by

sanctuary and has sliding cabinets built into it. Inside those cabinets are the ashes of former members of the congregation who have passed away.

Rev. Annie will stand behind this altar during a service, feeling inspired by the presence of “all my folks,” as she calls them, interred in the cabinets. Also providing silent support for her is the beautiful stained glass at her back, which was donated long ago by a St. Paul’s patron in memory of his twoyear-old daughter who had died.

From this position she can see the entire congregation and look across them to the back wall where there is yet another beautiful stained glass. This one is a dramatic rendering of St. Paul in the pivotal moment when Jesus appeared to him on the road to Damascus and his life began anew.

Despite all the beauty and history of St. Paul’s (and there are many more fascinating little details to be seen there), the building is not what drew Rev. Annie to Benicia four years ago to become the church leader.

Rather, she said, “what became abundantly clear was that people are the heart and soul of this church. The building is just a container. This is a community that worships in a beautiful old building, but they’re not owned by it. And there have been lots of people who have shared this space over the years.”

It’s not the building, it’s the spirit of the people in it. This is true for St. Paul’s Episcopal and the other churches all across town. This may be a good time to discover—or rediscover— the fascinating things that can be found inside one. B

n Kevin Nelson

Downtown for the

Perfect for holiday giving, Downtown Dollars are gift certificates available in $5 and $20 increments, accepted at over 70 merchants in Downtown Benicia.

Holiday Open House

Friday, December 2nd, 6-9pm

First Street merchants along with Benicia Main Street host this ever-popular open house at the beginning of the Christmas Season. Merchants o er beverages and treats and show o their holiday goods while costumed carolers sing traditional Christmas tunes. Live entertainment and Christmas Tree lighting add a festive atmosphere to this family event.

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

Benicia Main Street

90 First Street, Benicia • 707.745.9791

www.BeniciaMainStreet.org

Christmas Parade & Holiday Market

Saturday, December 10th, 10am-3pm

The parade starts at 10am at First and D Street and ends at H Street. The parade features local marching bands, dancers, and the much-anticipated Santa Claus. The Holiday Market features handcrafted arts & crafts, gourmet items and delicious foods.

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

Your Table is Ready

by Michael Cecchi-Azzonlina

n Cooper Mickelson

Photo by Cooper Mickelson

I think it’s safe to say that most of us have dined in a restaurant at some point in our lives. Dining out is one of the most common ways we celebrate life’s events. Birthdays, anniversaries, engagements. Hand the responsibility of cooking over to the experts and leave the washing up to the bussers and dishwashers. Tonight is about you. But do you ever wonder what this magical experience looks like from the other side?

Michael Cecchi-Azzolina is a career Maître D’hotel, serving everyone from mobsters to duchesses at some of New York City’s most popular restaurants from the 1970s to 2020. His memoir, Your Table is Ready, invites us behind the curtain of the front-of-house experience.

Your Table is Ready takes us places we’ve never been before. Covering much of Cecchi’s life, we get the scoop on the drama surrounding New York City’s hottest spots to drink and dine.

Cecchi does a fantastic job transporting us to the dining room. My heart rate shot up, and my palms began to sweat as Cecchi ran about putting out fires caused by demanding guests, incompetent workers, and unpredictable bridge jumpers. Cecchi doesn’t hold back on the raunchy and wild stories from his past. Names are

dropped, and even when they aren’t, it’s clear enough who he’s referencing. Anna Wintour, Madonna, and Anna Delvey are just a few of the guest appearances.

If you’re not already a pleasant and gracious guest at restaurants, you’ll surely be on your best behavior after reading Your Table is Ready. Although times have changed, and people now have a deeper understanding of the skill it takes to work in the restaurant business, this memoir will open your eyes even further. Cecchi uses entertaining tales from his career to teach us about what it takes to run a restaurant and for that restaurant to succeed. Individuals who choose to make this job their career are a different breed of human — patient, flexible, and tough as nails. I know for a fact that I wouldn’t be able to take the abuse suffered by Cecchi and his coworkers on a daily basis.

Your Table is Ready is a wildly fun and informative memoir. I found Cecchi’s writing brilliant, and most readers will enjoy this book immensely.

Your Table is Ready will be released on December 6th. Don’t miss out. Order your copy from Bookshop Benicia, then take your book down to Cullen’s Pub, where you can get cozy with this month’s Booktails cocktail (a Black Manhattan).

If you’d like

zero-proof

Book and Cocktail Club

These dinner come with stories. The story of each wine or beer and the story of how we decided to create a dinner to go with it. Listening to the makers and drinking it all in while enjoying the flavors that delight and surprise us. Space is limited, reservations required 98 per person — Wine dinner

per person — Beer dinner

includes 3 course dinner with corresponding beverage pairing and gratuity. Tax is additional.

Godmothered

n Gourmet Gracie and Movie Magic

So, you’ve found a new and exciting recipe but can’t find “preserved lemons” or “Korean chili sauce” or “sesame miso.” Look no further, the Anchor Pantry in downtown Vallejo has an unbelievable selection of gourmet items — savory, sweet and everything in between. There’s a beautiful refrigerated case of gourmet cheeses, salamis, sausages, ham, prosciutto and more. And…wait for it….ACME bread delivered daily. I know, right?!?! Gracie can barely contain herself — this place is beyond AWESOME.

This holiday season, indulge your tasty, creative side. Assemble a stunning charcuterie platter — Anchor Pantry has everything you need. Crackers and cookies, mustards and salsas, Marcona almonds, tins of gourmet tuna, anchovies, mussels, tapenades, bacon jam, delicious dressings, flavored oils, specialty vinegars, unique spices, pestos and pickles, capers and cornichons — you’ll be charmed by the choices. Imported dried Italian pasta — no GMOs — the difference is shocking. Also, CHOCOLATE and specialty coffees and teas.

Local owner Jessica Brooks comes from a family of foodies, has a four year degree in hospitality management, and is an experienced, professional restaurant chef. This small batch gourmet food market is her dream and reflects her mission to share the flavors of the world and highlight the local specialty goods that reflect the diversity of Vallejo and the surrounding areas. Jessica opened her market in 2021 to much acclaim. After 13 months of success, an arson fire took down her business. She describes with so much gratitude how it is only because of community support that she was able to reopen in a larger location across the street in late July 2022. From the minute you enter Jessica’s market, you can’t miss the happy positivity and high level of quality that surrounds you. Gracie Gourmet can’t recommend Anchor Pantry enough. All are welcome! Happy Holidays!

Find this article on BeniciaMagazine.com for a pasta recipe to pair with your movie night.

It’s about Christmas and it’s about Fairy Godmothers. If that floats your boat, you’re going to be happy to watch this fantasy comedy/drama about a young, inexperienced fairy godmother in training, trying to prove that people still need fairy godmothers. I know that I do!

This is a charming family film from a far away place called Motherland — a place with moss covered castles in a kingdom for fairy godmothers who are meant to help humans find their Happily Ever After. We meet Eleanor, who is the youngest in this dying enterprise that’s about to be turned into a Tooth Fairy factory. Eleanor sets about proving her worth and the worth of all fairy godmothers with magic and optimism and chunks of humor and hugs. She steps into the real world and tries her hand at helping a real grown up person make her dreams come true. There’s Christmas music, a Disney villain, lots of cuteness, a helping of romance and yes, a very happy ending.

Filmed in a snow covered Boston and directed by Sharon McGuire, this movie stars Gillian Bell and Isla Fisher. Both actresses bring their hearts and their humor to this fairytale — perfect for this season of giving.

Movie Magic gives Godmothered 4 Moons out of 5. B

The twenty seventh in a series of at home food and movie pairings.

Benicia Refinery

“AQCC was so patient and helpful with the decision-making process. Everything turned out better than we envisioned. Highly recommend!” —Bobby and Jessica Morgan