Benicia Magazine December 2018

Hot Chocolate

Three variations on the steaming cup of chocolaty goodness

Benicia Shopping

Optimize gift buying with our list of independent retail stores

Art Galleries

Growing in number, Benicia’s gallery scene takes off 3.50

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Greyhorseboutique.com Come see us in our new location!

374 First Street Downtown Benicia 707-297-6405

Contributors Rebicca Gulick Tomoka Red St. Johns Beth Steinmann Courtney Tait Christina Strawbridge Photographers Lisa Duncan Jerry Bowles

Advertising sales Jeanne Steinmann 707.853.5226 Adsales@beniciamagazine.com Advertising deadlines New ads: the 5th of the month prior to the issue month Ad changes: 6 weeks prior to the issue month

Contact Us 707.853.8159, Beniciamagazine.com Editor@beniciamagazine.com Administration Office Manager Risë Goebel Copy Editor/proofreader Beth Steinmann Benicia Magazine is published monthly by Polygon Publishing, LLC. Copyright © 2018, 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.

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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 December 2018

Air Quality Monitoring Program Website is Live!

Starting in October 2018, the Valero Benicia Refinery activated the following website: www.beniciarefineryairmonitors.org as part of our Air Quality Monitoring Program for the Community. This website includes near real time data that will keep the community informed about the air quality using ground level monitors (GLM) located in three different locations throughout the city of Benicia.

Ground Level Monitors vs Fenceline Monitors

Ground level monitors (GLMs) measure hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide in the ambient air from all sources including mobile sources (eg: cars and trucks) and stationary sources (eg: refinery, homes and other businesses).

Fenceline monitors go a step beyond, by measuring specific pollutants that cross the facility’s fenceline in real time. The systems have the ability to monitor, record and report air pollutant levels of multiple compounds.

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s Regulation 12-15 requires refinery fenceline monitoring by June of 2019.

AlertSolano messages are used for localized emergencies such as storms, earthquakes or environmental hazards. The Benicia Refinery would like to make sure that Benicians are receiving community alerts. To join the many residents currently receive notifications by going to the Solano County website and signing up for AlertSolano notifications.

Fast Facts:

For the second consecutive year, Valero’s Benefit for Children’s Awards Reception donated $320,000 to 28 organizations in Benicia, Solano & Contra Costa County.

Overall, the refinery has 450 employees and 3,900+ jobs have been created or supported by Valero in the region. 2,100 annual volunteer hours have also been accumulated by their employees.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 5 BeniciaMagazine.com • 5

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December 2018

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18

24

Contents Features Getting to know Benicia’s distinctive art galleries Thick and delicious hot chocolate for a cozy holiday treat

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24

Scene

Vallejo Choral Society presents The Messiah, and a new conductor for 2019

Family-style comfort food at Bull Valley Roadhouse

10

Community

Cultivate Community’s food co-op could become a brick and mortar store

Benicia’s downtown holiday decorations installed by public works employees

From the Editor 14

14

Food & Drink

Parks

A late season picnic, fishing and more at Benicia State Recreation Area

In Every Issue

Culture

12

16

Shop

8

Music

23

Calendar

26

Art Samantha McNally watercolors & mini ornament paintings at Plein Air Gallery

28

Intricate fiber art by Jan Radesky at Benicia Library

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28 30

Downtown magic & mystery with a Beatle’s twist, plus top 10 reasons to shop local

18

Find the perfect gift at independently owned Downtown Benicia shops

Creative possibilities within the confines of a 12” square at Gallery 621

19

Gauguin: A Spiritual Journey at the De Young Museum

Above left: Bull Valley Roadhouse; center top, Bookshop Benicia; center bottom, Romancing the Home Cover: Hot chocolate for the holidays, photo by Jerry Bowles 6 • Benicia Magazine

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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.

Christmas Parade & Holiday Market Saturday, December 15 Join us for the annual Christmas Parade at 10am on First Street (between D Street and H Street) featuring local bands, dancers, and the much anticipated Santa Claus. The Holiday Market features handcrafted arts & crafts and gourmet items from 10am-3pm, located on First Street between B and D Streets.

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

www.BeniciaMainStreet.org

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

Holiday Open House Friday, December 7

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

Benicia Main Street

90 First Street, Benicia • 707.745.9791 Extended holiday hours on weekdays from December 19-21, 9am-7pm Open weekends from 11am-4pm.

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FROM THE EDITOR

December 2018

Lisa Duncan Photography

Tweet, post or send your suggestions & ideas to: Editor@beniciamagazine.com Beniciamagazine.com

Facebook

@Jeannesteinmann beniciamagazine

Social networking has become crucial to those of us in California. A year ago, we were horrified by the ferocity of the Tubbs fire, thinking future fires couldn’t get any worse.

Affected victims, especially in Santa Rosa, are still assimilating that reality, dealing with rebuilding, health issues and mourning loved ones. Facebook pages were set up as a repository for information, expressions of grief and more.

I’m writing this as the Butte County Camp Fire continues to rage, and the Bay empties in search of healthier air. Far surpassing other California fires, the news is a daily dose of grim updates. Posts, tweets and more are connecting us as we live the reality of wildfires together. There’s a Facebook group called CAMP FIRE - Information & Updates (Paradise, CA). Help is pouring out to victims, in the form of donations, food and offers of housing. To help, Google “Camp Fire Donations.” You’ll find local sources, plus Red Cross and Salvation Army. I am proud to be part of our generous California community.

On a much lighter note, since the weather turned chilly, I’ve been craving hot chocolate. Not the kind that comes in a packet you mix with water, but the real deal, blending quality dark chocolate or cocoa powder with scalded milk, cooked stovetop. Check out some thick, velvety recipes on page 24. In other food news, Courtney Tait sums up recent meals she’s had at the Bull Valley Roadhouse. Though Mike and I eat all over town, the occasional trip to Port Costa to indulge in upscale comfort fare feels like a mini escape into the countryside.

In the art arena, there’s another gallery opening on First Street, expanding the number to nine. Nine galleries! With so many for a small burb, we thought it appropriate to share what each one offers. Check out our story in this issue. Large works or very small ones, we have a unique opportunity to fill our spaces with original art at reasonable prices.

In recent years, residents have turned out to support our retail stores, let’s continue that trend. This is make-or-break time for downtown merchants. Restaurants are a big draw, and the shops keep us lingering … checking out what’s beyond window displays for the perfect gift for loved ones.

Happy holidays everyone, —Jeanne Steinmann

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Scene Parks

Autumn Beauty and Seasonal Activities at BSRA Jeanne Steinmann Lisa Duncan Photography Benicia is home to Solano County’s only two state parks, both right here in town: the Benicia Capitol State Historic Park on First Street, and the Benicia State Recreation Area (BSRA). On a fall day in October, Benicia photographer Lisa Duncan captured the beauty of the State Recreation area: seasonal color at the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden, abundant picnic areas and the calming and picturesque waterfront surrounding the park.

Autumn and early winter is a good time to visit BSRA, when the wind is low with abundant sunshine. Take a family bike ride and binoculars for bird watching. Fish the Carquinez Strait at Dillon Point where stripers run year round, or find a cozy picnic spot along the waterfront. Picnicking is particularly enjoyable in December, with a chill in the air announcing the waning of the season. Take a thermos of soup and some crusty sourdough bread from One House Bakery or Farm & Flour. Amp up the coziness factor with a steaming mug of rich hot chocolate as a special treat—see page 24 for delicious recipes.

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Scene Community

Cultivate Community Food Co-op Could Be Benicia’s Next Market

By Tomoka Red St. Johns A desire for a brick and mortar market carrying locally produced, clean foods year-round has become the impetus for those behind the consumer-owned Cultivate Community Food Co-op.

“It starts with the food we put in our bodies,” said Paula Schnese, president of the co-op’s board. But there’s another motivation, too. “We want foods with flavor!”

Cultivate Community Food Co-op is the latest step in South Solano County to address food concerns. A single community garden has grown into Sustainable Solano. Community Sustainable Agriculture (CSA) offers local subscribers fresh seasonable products from regional organic farmers. Schnese and others want to take it to the next step—a food cooperative market.

A former Berkeley resident, Schnese kept shopping in Berkeley, since Benicia had no grocery specializing in natural and organic foods. Seeking others with similar frustrations at driving long distances and paying tolls just to get clean, flavorful foods, she scheduled a food summit in August 2015.

Asked to help plan Sustainable Solano’s 2016 “What’s for Dinner” series, Schnese suggested a co-op. Sustainable Solano Executive Director Elena Karoulina made it a topic of the first “What’s for Dinner” program that year. From there, new co-op members formed a starting committee. Schnese connected with the Food Co-op Initiative, which mentors new food cooperatives, when she attended a national conference in Indiana. The local co-op incorporated with a Board of Directors in July 2017.

Board Secretary Kim Barragan said she has her own reasons for investing in the co-op. Her daughter developed food intolerances about 20 years ago. Barragan learned that many children her daughter’s age had similar sensitivities, unlike her own childhood acquaintances, who never showed such symptoms. “Everyone I talk to seems to be aware through their own family or friends of this growing problem,” she said.

Then Barragan learned students lost those intolerances when they traveled to Europe, where some chemicals are banned. Like others who have become owners, she is anxious to see the co-op market open and operational. Unlike large companies, Barragan said the food co-op is made up of “a grass roots group of local volunteers who see a way to change

our own local community for the better.” Schnese said many find that local ownership and control appealing.

There’s precedence for food co-ops in the greater Bay Area, Schnese said. Cultivate Community Food Co-op is patterned after three area consumer-owned co-ops: Sacramento Natural Foods, Placerville Food Co-op and its mentor, Davis Food Coop. Three others are San Francisco’s Rainbow Grocery, Other Avenues and Oakland’s Mandela Foods.

Once the co-op reaches 1,200 owners, it intends to open a physical market. The store will be staffed by trained employees, who may join if they wish, Schnese said. Member or not, anyone can shop there. “If you eat, you are welcome,” Schnese said. “Without owners, this won’t happen.” So before the store opens, investors get discounts and exclusive opportunities to purchase foods in pilot programs and at popups, among other benefits.

In one of those pilot programs, using products from just two area farms, owners bought organic seasonal vegetables, eggs, chicken bone broth, vinegar, seasoned salts and olive oil. In the near-term future, the co-op may offer items online.

Once the market is open, it will have the variety of other food stores. Swift turnover will keep products fresh, and volume purchasing should make organic foods more affordable than in standard groceries, Schnese said. Most items will come from no more than 250 miles away.

“We are fortunate to live here in Northern California, where we will be able to order our products from surrounding counties, such as Yolo, Napa, Sonoma, Sacramento, Monterey and others, and have our produced picked for us in the morning and be delivered (within) 24 hours,” Barragan said.

Beyond giving customers a Benicia or Vallejo store site in which to shop, the co-op also expects to offer classes and social community events. “‘We believe the people of Solano County deserve the opportunity to thrive’ is a code that we keep in mind when we do all our planning,” Barragan said.

Owners may join through its website, cultivatecommunityfood.coop. The investment is $300 per share, which can be paid at once or through quarterly payments of $25. Owners may buy up to three shares, which would give them a larger yearly dividend payment. Each owner-household gets one vote on co-op decisions, no matter how many shares are purchased.

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Scene Culture

ECOR ATING Be De ENICIA Takes City Team to the Heights

By Tomoka Red St. Johns Although Benicia residents and downtown visitors have seen the same holiday decorations year over year, it’s always an event when Benicia Public Works employees arrive downtown with those decorations in tow.

Decorating Benicia’s downtown is a sure sign the holiday shopping season has begun, and the decorations also serve as a welcome to those arriving in the downtown area. It takes two or three maintenance workers to install those decorations, said William Tarbox, Public Works director. It also takes two or three days to complete the job, he said.

Besides the employees, they use a pickup truck and a bucket truck, often nicknamed a cherry picker, or a manlift, because the decorations will be lifted high off the ground to be attached to their pole mounts. Although maintenance employees are working in familiar territory, that doesn’t mean they won’t need

to take precautions, Tarbox said. “We set out cones and signs, so pedestrians don’t walk below our work area,” he said.

Another item to which the employees must pay attention is weather. “Certain parts of First Street are very windy, so we must be cautious,” Tarbox said. As they go from stopping place to stopping place, employees set out decorations throughout the length of First Street as well as next to the Benicia Public Library on one block of Military East, across from Solano Square.

As they install the holiday décor, employees get a different perspective of the city, Tarbox said. “It’s a nice view,” he added. For some of his employees, it’s a familiar view. “Some long-time employees assigned to the street crew have put up decorations for many years,” he said. “And that’s a satisfying assignment. Employees feel a sense of pride in knowing how much people enjoy the decorations.” Sometimes they hear

Vallejo Choral Society presents Handel's Messiah No doubt the Society has flourished

By Rebecca Gulick Vallejo Choral Society presents two under Brown’s leadership. There were just December performances of The Messiah, 19 singers when he was hired in 2012 to the perennial holiday favorite by George replace Cyril Deaconoff. In the years since, Brown has steadily developed the choir’s Frideric Handel. The 45-voice Symphonic size and sound and delivered 18 ambitious Choir will be joined by talented Bay Area soloists and instrumentalists when they concert programs, beginning with Britten’s perform Handel’s celebrated 1741 oratorio, Saint Nicolas Cantata, and culminating last featuring the famous Hallelujah Chorus.

June with a triumphant Centennial Season featuring another Britten masterwork, With these concerts, Andrew Brown will A Ceremony of Carols, as well as the be taking the VCS conductor’s podium for Fauré Requiem, Vivaldi’s Gloria, and the last time, concluding a six-year tenure as Artistic Director to focus his energies Lauridsen’s Lux Æterna, complete with on Pacific Boychoir Academy, where he professional orchestra.

Artistic Director Andrew Brown, courtesy photo “I feel that as VCS grew I also grew,” serves as Director of Choral Studies.

Brown departs on a high note, with the Society now in its 101st he said, crediting Vallejo Choral Society for helping him achieve season and membership the largest it has been in decades— his personal goals as a professional director and conductor, and citing his favorite concerts—Reverie (March 2015), featuring with Benicians comprising half of its singers.

“I will miss him much,” said Benicia native Barbara Partelow, the hauntingly beautiful Duruflé Requiem; Misa Criolla (May who first joined Vallejo Choral Society in the 1960s when Dean 2016), the joyous folkloric mass by Argentine composer Ariel Friedrich was the director. “Andrew is gifted as well as exacting, Ramírez; and A Bridge of Song (March 2017), exploring human and he leads with humor and warmth,” she said. “He has great and cultural connections through the work of composers from Hungary, Finland, and Estonia. “These concerts have wonderful faith in us and selected challenging music—brave man!”

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about that joy firsthand, when passersby call out compliments to the workers on the job.

Tarbox said Benicia has had the same downtown holiday displays for many years, and there’s only one set.

“Replacement happens when they are worn out,” he said.

“The last time new decorations were purchased, it was many years ago, he said. “We’re due for new ones, but funding is an issue.”

While his workers are putting up the downtown displays, other city employees are busily involved with additional municipal holiday decorating. For instance, the Benicia Council Chambers are decorated each year by the Parks and Community Services Division. A stroll through Benicia City Hall gives viewers a chance to see other departments decorated with personal touches. Most of them boast of displays selected by department employees, some of whom have brought items from home to add to their offices’ festive looks.

After the holidays are over, employees who spent time putting them up are the same people who take the lifting equipment to remove them. “Taking down the decorations after the new year is like putting away the decorations on the tree,” Tarbox said. “Glad it’s over, but also a little disappointed that the holiday season has come to an end.”

The décor is removed carefully, said Tarbox. Just as carefully, they’re packed away and taken to the Benicia Clock Tower, where they remain in storage until they’re brought out again. And once more, maintenance employees will head out to hoist the decorations aloft to bring a festive, holiday look to Benicia’s downtown.

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Proper Tree or Shrub Selection connection points for me.” He added that the community that VCS has become is so meaningful. “That’s what I love. There really is a VCS experience now.”

“It’s true that VCS grew with Andrew,” said Board President Laura Pyles. “The partnership we’ve built is based on that mutual respect and love for these great works. We have explored and found our way as a choir together.” Pyles credits Brown’s musicianship and ability to challenge the choir to transcend their perceived limitations. “One of the things I've really appreciated is the belief Andrew has in us as a choir.”

The Society recently completed a concerted search for Brown’s successor, and in January will welcome Derek Tam as VCS Artistic Director.

The VCS chorus has been honing Handel’s Messiah since August and is poised to deliver thrilling performances December 8 and 9. In addition to a chamber orchestra of top-shelf Bay Area instrumentalists, the concerts will feature talented soloists performing the beloved Messiah arias and recitatives, including Soprano Sara LeMesh, who will sing the virtuoso coloratura aria Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion.

Vallejo Choral Society presents Handel’s Messiah on Saturday, December 8, at 7pm, at Community Congregational Church in Benicia, and on Sunday, December 9, at 3pm, at First Presbyterian Church in Vallejo. Tickets are available at vallejochoral.org/tickets. For more information, visit vallejochoral.org, email info@vallejochoral.org or call 707.653.6827.

Plan, protect, prune correctly and preserve trees and shrubs to maintain value.

Trees and shrubs have many functions and benefits: Evergreens: privacy & protection from winter winds Flowering: beautify & enhance Fruit: spring flowers & autumn harvest Others: shade, wind deflection, windbreak & sound barrier For more info visit: www.ci.benicia.ca.us Parks & Community Services

www.beniciatrees.org BeniciaMagazine.com • 15

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Scene Food & Drink

Escape into Flavor at

Bull Valley Roadhouse

By Courtney Tait Ever since eating at Bull Valley Roadhouse on a Saturday evening with friends earlier this fall, I’ve been daydreaming about going back.

I want to drive down the canyon road that leads to the tiny town of Port Costa—20 minutes from Benicia, southeast of Crockett, CA—and slip back in time among the restaurant’s antique portraits and wooden floorboards and scalloped potatoes with cream and gruyere. I want to sit at the long walnut bar and share a bowl of mussels and fries with my husband, forgetting the day’s headlines and escaping into the magic of the sauce, letting its infusion of garlic and shallots bring comfort to my worried mind.

With the state of the world feeling particularly intense these days, I find myself craving places and experiences that are inviting and unrushed. Bull Valley Roadhouse, which features classic American fare served family style (and casually provides guests with a hot hand towel upon being seated) is one of those places.

Opened in 2012 by Earl Flewellen and Samuel Spurrier, it’s located in an 1897 building that seems

to whisper history from its walls. The space has operated as a restaurant since 1963 (first as Bull Valley Inn, then Bull Valley Restaurant), and is named after Big Bull Valley Creek, which runs beneath it.

Spurrier, a self-described “compulsive antiquer” who manages the front-of-house, incorporates his estatesale findings into the decor, making for a warm, eclectic vibe.

For the menu, co-owner and executive chef David Williams creates small and large plates to be shared.

As Spurrier explains, part of the appeal of family-style dishes is that they build community. “You put plates in the center of the table and everyone takes from that,” he says. “It requires people to talk to each other, to engage, to compromise. It challenges people to eat things they haven’t eaten before.”

Along with the mussels and scalloped potatoes, our group of five ordered fried brussels sprouts (with chili, grana, and lemon), wedge salad, crispy buttermilk fried chicken (with coleslaw, pepper jam, and buttermilk biscuits), and biscuits and country gravy (yes, more biscuits). The flavors were deep and rich. I sipped a glass of rosé throughout and was

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delighted when bread arrived to soak up the mussel sauce, just seconds after we’d mused aloud if some might be available.

The whole meal had a nurturing element of home cooking to it, albeit elevated by a chef who knows precisely how to bring the essence of each fresh, seasonal ingredient to the forefront.

On my next visit, I plan to sample one of the pre-prohibition cocktails: the Buster Brown, maybe, with gum syrup, lemon juice, orange bitters, and whiskey. Created by beverage director Tamir Ben-Shalom, the list of 12 recipes is inspired by early 19thcentury bartender manuals. And since we skipped dessert the first time around, I’ll be saving room for the chocolate pot de creme with sea salt caramel.

Bull Valley Roadhouse is open for dinner Thursday through Sunday and for Sunday brunch. Says Spurrier: “We gather the best ingredients and then we just want you to enjoy yourselves.”

Photos: P. 16, Bull Valley Roadhouse entrance, by Justin Winokur; p. 17, dining room, grilled salmon and patio, by Rise Scott

Bull Valley Roadhouse 510.787.1135 14 Canyon Lake Dr., Port Costa Bullvalleyroadhouse.com BeniciaMagazine.com • 17

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Scene Shop

A Downtown Magical Mystery Tour

By Christina Strawbridge Lucy in the sky with diamonds Benicia's downtown has become a magical mystery tour from top to bottom, with a train station going nowhere and diamonds in the trees. To properly experience First Street, be prepared for an adventure in food, drink, shopping, spas and music. Anchor your yellow submarine … with all your friends aboard … many of them live next door ... and the band begins to play!

Twist and shout In the heart of Benicia, positioned at the top, bottom and the middle of the street, three family-owned businesses have opened their doors, filling the air with the smell of bread, pastries and locally roasted coffee along with classic Italian cuisine—with a California twist … and shout! All three restaurants have taken their new spaces to new levels, and amped them up several decibels with the use of brick walls, high ceilings and industrial finishes.

I'll buy you a diamond ring my friend, if it makes you feel alright Spectacular views include sunsets over the Carquinez Strait and the Benicia State Capitol, with a garden oasis on its grounds. Some of our gift stores are on the move, settling on the busy thoroughfare close to long-established neighbors, all of which offer the latest in cool gifts for important people in your life (including you). You’ll find abundant choices from diamond jewelry to children’s gifts and everything in between.

Paperback Writer First Street has its own independent book store where the owner’s love for the written word is evident. It’s also a community gathering place with book clubs and community events. Shelves are full of the latest titles and classics, with a kid’s section, journals, calendars and more—everything an indie book store should be.

Considering all the events, fairs, parades, wine walks, farmers market and other fun that draws thousands to Downtown Benicia on a regular basis, is it any wonder that after a hard day's night, Benicia makes you feel alright?

Photos from top: Camellia Tea Room, Bookshop Benicia, Happy Life Pottery, Mozart Einstein and Me, Romancing the Home. -Lisa Duncan Photography

Top Ten Reasons to Shop Benicia First 1. Merchandise you can’t find just anywhere, handpicked for you.

2. Friendly customer service: shop owners get to know their customers.

3. Convenience—Downtown Benicia is close to everything.

4. Each block offers a unique restaurant, bar or café experience.

5. Lines are short and gift-wrapping is free at most downtown shops.

6. Parking is free (with time limits), and there’s a free parking lot on East 2nd & F Streets.

7. Shopping local avoids Bay Area traffic and bridge tolls.

8. Over 25 spas and salons to revive the most ardent shopper.

9. Downtown is hopping with event shopping, tree lighting, carriage rides, parade, holiday market and in-store promotions.

10. Supporting local businesses keeps our town vital, maintains the heart of the community, and contributes to the local economy.

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Perfect Gifting for Colleagues, Friends and Family Adobe Second Chance Thrift Shop

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Timeless Memories

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Tina Marie’s

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Wheels in Motion

Skate & Bike Shop 735 First Street 707.746.8856 Wheelsinmotionbenicia.com

To The

Benicia Historical Museum at The Camel Barn.

For Our Annual Holiday Faire Saturday, Dec. 1st – 11 to 8 Sunday Dec. 2nd – 11 to 5

Fun for the Entire Family BeniciaMagazine.com • 19

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Getting to Know Benicia’s Art Galleries Each of Benicia’s seven art galleries is unique. With distinctive spaces and varying types and styles of art, the galleries have made their mark on the local art scene, giving residents and visitors an outlet to view the works of Benicia and Northern California artists. Whether visiting the galleries a few at a time or making a day of it built around a meal at a downtown eatery, you’ll find a wide range of artistic offerings that include printmaking, sculpture, photography, paintings, mixed media, fiber art, pottery, jewelry, glass art glass more.

ARTS BENICIA GALLERY

Arts Benicia’s mission is “... to stimulate, educate, and nurture cultural life in Benicia primarily through the visual arts.” With their large space and longtime presence in the Lower Arsenal, Arts Benicia is the hub of Benicia’s art scene. Led by executive director Celeste Smeland, the organization puts on annual 1 exhibits such as Artist Open Studios, The Art of a Community and The Next Generation, with additional exhibitions by member artists, as well as classes and programs.

Artsbenicia.org 991 Tyler Street Ste. 114 707.747.0131 Wed-Sun 12—5pm during exhibitions

HQ GALLERY

Moving from their previous Arsenal location in 2017, HQ Gallery found a new home on First Street near the waterfront. HQ has found a niche in welcoming 2 established and emerging artists, with one artist per style, though currently there is a waiting list for new members. With 25 member artists, the gallery does not have a featured artist of the month, but it does hold special events including the annual Plein Air Paint Out. Hqgallery.net 333 First Street, suite D Thurs-Sun 12—6pm Mar.-Oct.; 11am—5pm Nov.-Feb.

GALLERY 621

4

Gallery621.com 309 First St. 707.297.6860 Thurs. 12—3pm, Fri.-Sun. 12—6pm

PLEIN AIR GALLERY

This small gallery oozes downtown charm. Painting outdoors, artists find plenty of inspiring scenes in which to capture the light.

Member artists paint nature as 5 they see it, moving their brushes quickly to record a moment in time. Scenic offerings from Northern California can be viewed here, including Benicia’s many beloved vistas and surrounding towns, from capturing the sun setting over the Strait and quaint Victorian homes to bucolic hillsides and ocean waves.

Beniciapleinair.com 307 First Street 707.297.5903 Spring/Summer: Thurs-Sun 12—6pm Fall/Winter: Thurs-Sun 11am—5pm or by appt.

JEN TOUGH GALLERY

MILINDA PERRY GALLERY

Benicia and Northern California artist works are shown at the Perry Gallery just off First 3 Milinda Street on East F Street, and shares space with an upscale salon. New exhibits occur every six weeks, each with artist receptions that are open to the public.

Works primarily include paintings and photography. findyourfabulous.com 117 East F Street 707.361.5097 Hours vary

A contemporary fine art space, Gallery 621 is also just steps from the waterfront; neighbors with the Plein Air and HQ Galleries. Member artists who have had long-time studio practices produce fine art paintings, sculpture and more.

The gallery features member artists most months, with artist receptions open to the public.

6

With two locations in the Lower Arsenal, Jen Tough displays contemporary art in a light-filled space at its main gallery, and nearby, an additional gallery and project space. Starting in Vallejo, the gallery relocated to Benicia in 2016, and opened a second space this year.

Gallery members are mostly emerging and mid-career female artists.

Jentough.gallery 942 Tyler Street, Suite E 833.278.5683 Fri 1—6pm, Sat 12—7pm, Sun 12—5pm; Mon by appt.

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BENICIA PUBLIC LIBRARY GALLERY

The Marilyn Citron O’Rourke Gallery is just inside and to the right of the library’s main entrance. This gallery showcases rotating art exhibits that are always interesting and engaging.

Works from Benicia artists as well as those from around the country are 7 shown in the light-filled, galley-like space, with a wide range of artistic styles as well as special exhibits.

Benicialibrary.org 150 East L Street 707.746.4343 Mon-Thurs 10am—9pm; Fri-Sun 12—6pm

LINDSAY ART GLASS STUDIO AND GALLERY

This colorful gallery showcases the work of David Lindsay, and is filled with art glass, hand-blown on site, in its many forms including holiday ornaments, lamps, vases, bowls, platters, paperweights and more, plus jewelry and accessories. In addition to Lindsay’s work, the gallery also represents more than 25 American craft artists.

8

Lindsayartglass.com 109 East F Street 707.748.1336 Sun-Thurs 11am—5pm, Fri 11am—7pm, Sat 10am—7pm

ARATA ART GALLERY

Benicia’s newest art gallery is moving to First Street. Owners Geri (Arata) Pruett and John Pruett will welcome the public to a soft opening Nov. 24, followed by a “sneak peek” grand opening celebration with wine and nibbles, and will feature one piece of work from each of 25 member artists. The event will take place January 12, 2019, 11am—5pm. aratafineartgallery.com 510.432.5167 637 First Street Thurs-Sat 11—5, Sun 1—5pm

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Congratulations to Stephen Gizzi on his recent elevation to Solano County Superior Court Judge!

The former law firm Gizzi Reep Foley will continue under the new name Reep & Mitchell, LLP Same location, same exceptional legal and mediation services.

REEP & MITCHELL, LLP 1001 Madison Street, 2nd Floor Benicia, California 94510 SolanoLawGroup.com info@SolanoLawGroup.com 707-748-0900

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Art glass by David Lindsay BeniciaMagazine.com • 21

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VJS Presents Nicolas Bearde Quintet $20 General $10 VJS Members Dec. 08, 8pm Momotombo SF $25 Online/$30 Phone & Box Office Dec. 12, 8pm Ho Ho Hoey Rockin Holiday Tour $35 General/$25 VIP Add-on/Online, Phone & Box Office Dec. 21, 8pm Kimberlye Gold All Star Rock’n Soul Holiday Revue $25 General in Advance

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707.745.3749 439 First Street, Benicia Luccabar.com Winter hiatus see you in March!

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Delicious Hot Chocolate Joythebaker.com

One large or two small portions

1 1/2 cups milk (any fat content) 3 heaping tablespoon bittersweet chocolate chips 2 heaping tablespoons white chocolate chips In a small saucepan, gently heat milk over low heat. Whisk often so the milk doesn’t burn.

While the milk is heating, bring a medium saucepan with two inches of water to a boil. Place a heatproof bowl with chocolate pieces over the simmering water. Make sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the simmering creating You’re water. a double boiler. Stir the chocolate pieces until melted.

Add the melted chocolate to the hot milk. Whisk together until completely blended and super delicious looking.

Pour into mugs and top with marshmallows or slightly sweetened whipped cream.

Staff Writer No other beverage evokes the warm, cozy feeling of hot chocolate.

Done right and enjoyed on a chilly day, it’s comfort in a cup, bringing back happy memories of childhood.

Thick, rich hot chocolate is a decadent drink—an endorphin inducing delight—silky and delicious. More than just the occasional sweet treat, we associate hot chocolate with family and friends and fireside chats, and taking the time to savor.

Chocolate has a long history, dating back to the 1400s when it was a spicy, bitter drink that was thought to have medicinal properties, and used to fight fatigue and enhance mood. Some studies have shown that the flavonoids and antioxidants in chocolate also have health benefits. Beginning in Europe in the 1800s, sugar made its way into hot chocolate, which eventually led to the fast food version that comes in packets.

Coming full circle, hot chocolate is returning to its roots as a special indulgence at upscale restaurants and cafes, using quality dark chocolate or cocoa powder, along with milk or cream, cinnamon, chili pepper, marshmallow, coffee, butterscotch and more.

This holiday season as you gather with family and friends, try one of these velvety hot chocolate recipes compiled by Thrillist.com.

Slow-Cooker Hot Cocoa

By Rachel Hollis, Thechicsite.com Serves 12 Prep Time:15 Minutes Cook Time: 2 Hours

8 cups milk 1 1/2 cups heavy cream 1 can sweetened condensed milk 2 cups bittersweet chocolate chips 1 tsp salt 1 tsp cinnamon Toppings of your choice ept Combine all the ingredients (exc slow a the toppings) in the bowl of ed eten cooker. Stir to dissolve the swe condensed milk and evenly distribute for the chocolate chips. Cook on low ally sion about 2 hours, stirring occa p to ensure until well combined. Kee with e warm until ready to serve. Serv s, various toppings like marshmallow ies, cook whipped cream, sprinkles, s, chocolate syrup, candy cane olate butterscotch chips, white choc chips, and anything else you like!

White Chocolate and Peppermint Hot Chocolate Appetit)

By RecipeGirl.com (Adapted from Bon 4 Servings Prep time: 20 Min. Cook time: 10 Min.

2/3 cup chilled whipping cream 8 hard red-and-white-striped peppermint candies, coarsely crushed (or candy canes) 3 1/2 cups milk (low fat is fine) 8 ounces good quality white chocolate (such as Lindt or Baker’s), chopped 1/2 tsp peppermint extract int Additional coarsely crushed pepperm candies ies in Beat cream and 8 crushed cand Cover . form s peak medium bowl until stiff g milk Brin m. crea ped and refrigerate whip over epan sauc large to simmer in heavy ; olate choc e whit Add medium-high heat. g Brin oth. smo and whisk until melted Mix in to simmer, whisking constantly. s. Top mug 4 into e Ladl peppermint extract. nkle Spri m. crea ped with a layer of whip e. serv and ies cand with additional crushed

24 • Benicia Magazine

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Calendar

December EVENTS

Downtown Holiday Shopping Spree

Holiday Open House & Tree Lighting

12/1-12/6 First Street, Benicia A drawing for a Downtown Benicia shopping spree valued at $500 in Downtown Dollars. For every $10 that shoppers spend at participating merchants, they will receive one ticket for the drawing. The drawing will take place on the evening of the Holiday Open House on December 7th.

Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791 Photo Courtesy Benicia Marina

9th Annual Christmas Tree Lot

12/1-12/23, 10am-7pm Benicia Historical Museum 2060 Camel Road, Benicia Decorate your home or workplace with a beautiful, sustainably-farmed, Noble, Douglas, or Nordmann Fir tree, all while supporting Genesis House and the Museum. Folks will also have an opportunity to send a letter to Santa via Cally, the Museum’s carousel camel, who comes to life after midnight to deliver letters to Santa’s North Pole workshop. With plenty of parking, pleasant assistants to help in choosing your tree and securing it for the ride home (or providing home delivery!), plus candy canes, coloring pages and free Museum passes to all who purchase, this is your best bet for an enjoyable tree-buying experience!

Beniciahistoricalmuseum.org 707.745.5435

pieces will be available in every Benicia Ballet price range, and mediums include Presents painting, printmaking, mixed media, The Nutcracker sculpture, photography, glass, jewelry 12/1, 2 & 7pm and more. Visit website for a list of Solano College Theater participating artists.

4000 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield Mikekendall.com/decos13.html Benicia Ballet presents its 28th annual show of The Nutcracker, in Teddy Bear Tea cooperation with the Solano College 12/1 & 2, seatings at 10:30am, 1pm & Music Department and the Symphony 3pm Orchestra of Northern California.

Camellia Tea Room Come enjoy this beautifully presented 628 First Street, Benicia classic ballet. Tickets range from $15The annual Teddy Bear Tea returns, 24 and are available online or through benefiting Benicia Main Street Program, featuring a special holiday Solano College Theater. traditional tea, costumed characters, Beniciaballet.org 707.746.6757 storytelling, Christmas carols and a special visitor from the North Pole!

Seatings are Saturday & Sunday at 10:30 AM, 1pm and 3:30pm.

Reservations and advanced payment are required.

Camelliatearoom.com 707.746.5293

Menorah Lighting

12/2-12/9 Union Square 333 Post Street, San Francisco The Bill Graham Menorah Project presents the annual Union Square Benicia Arsenal Artists Menorah Lighting. The first lighting Holiday Open Studios ceremony starts with entertainment Jingle All the Way 12/1 & 2, 10am-5pm at 2pm December 2nd, with David & Holiday Faire Benicia Arsenal Alex Graham, Perry Farrell and Local 12/1, 11am-8pm; 12/2, 11am-5pm Jackson, Grant, Polk & Tyler Streets, Dignitaries Long-Time Bill Graham Benicia Historical Museum Benicia Colleagues Musical performances by: 2060 Camel Road, Benicia Benicia Arsenal Artists is a collective Jerry’s Kosher Deli plus Very Special Benicia Historical Museum at the of artists with studios in Benicia’s Camel Barns invites everyone to their Guests. Crafts and kids activities historic Arsenal district, and this is annual Holiday Faire, which features will be available. See website for their annual show. All studios are crafts, beverages, food and Santa. It’s times lighting times each day. The within walking distance and will be ceremony ends December 9 with a holiday fun for the whole family! open to the public to explore spaces, closing finale.

Beniciahistoricalmuseum.org talk to artists and view and purchase Billgrahammenorah.org 707.745.5435 art. Studios are located in beautiful historic buildings built from the 1850s through the 1920s. Large and small

12/7, 6-9pm Foot of First Street, Benicia First Street merchants along with Benicia Main Street host this everpopular open house at the beginning of the Christmas Season. Merchants offer beverages and treats and show off their holiday goods while costumed carolers sing traditional Christmas tunes. Live entertainment, wagon rides, and Christmas tree lighting add a festive atmosphere to this family event.

Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

Lighted Boat Parade

12/8, 6-8pm Benicia Marina 266 East B Street, Benicia The public is welcome to come down and join in on the FUN! The annual event, hosted by the Benicia Marina, will begin in the Marina, proceed down the Straits past the First Street Pier, and then return to the Marina.

Awards will be take place on the main dock in front of the Marina office upon the return of Parade participants.

Beniciamarina.net 707.745.2628

Legends of the Celtic Harp performs A Winter Gift

12/8, 8pm Benicia Historical Museum 2060 Camel Road, Benicia Three of the premier Celtic harpers in the world will take listeners on a dramatic musical journey deep into the myths, magic and fabled history of this most captivating instrument.

In A Winter Gift, Patrick Ball, Lisa Lynne, and Aryeh Frankfurter step into a magical world of Irish and English literature, Celtic legend, and traditional folk beliefs. The music and stories touch on the central message of the Christmas/Winter season: hope. Doors open at 7pm, no-host bar provided.

Beniciahistoricalmuseum.org 707.745.5435

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Benicia Youth Orchestra Performance

12/11, 4pm Historic Clocktower 1189 Washington Street Conducted by Rem Djemilev, this is the inaugural concert performance of the newly formed Benicia Youth Orchestra whose members range in age from seven to 18 years.

Ci.benicia.ca.us/pcs 707.746.4285

Indoor & Outdoor Dining

-6pm Friday 3 cocktails, y a d n ll ms Mo 2 off we select food ite $ , e in $3 off w er and $2 off e ints of b $1 off p

Diablo Regional Concert Band Winter Concert

12/14, 7:30pm Benicia Public Library 150 East L Street, Benicia Diablo Regional Concert Band is a volunteer-run, self-supporting orchestra who’s history begin in 1910 as the Martinez Liberty Band. This is an annual concert at Benicia Library.

Diabloregionalconcertband.com

Christmas Parade & Holiday Market

12/15, 10am-3pm First Street, Benicia The parade starts at 10 a.m. at First and D Street and ends at H Street. The parade features local marching bands, dancers, and the muchanticipated Santa Claus. The Holiday Market features handcrafted arts & crafts, gourmet items and delicious foods.

Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

FOOTBALL SUNDAYS!

Breakfast menu with bottomless Mimosas with purchase of meal until 2pm.

SUN 9AM - MIDNIGHT MON - THURS: 11AM - MIDNIGHT FRI & SAT: 11AM - 1AM 33 TV’s showing all local & major sporting events MLB, NBA, NFL, UFC & more 32 beers on tap from breweries all over the U.S. • Specialty cocktails and wine

321 First Street, downtown Benicia 707.746.7665 rookiesbenicia.com

Pictures with Santa

12/15, 4-7pm Fire Station #11 150 Military West, Benicia Come spend time with Santa and friends!

Benicia Fire Department along with Parks and Community Services presents an opportunity for fun and photos. There will be a private session from 2-3pm for children with special needs.

There will also be a Toys for Tots Drive. All toy donations must be new and unwrapped.

Ci.benicia.ca.us/fire

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Art

Paintings, Prose and Poetry at Plein Air Gallery Featured Artist Samantha McNally Dec. 6, 2108—Jan 6, 2019

Left: Sea Lions on SF Docks; right: Down by the River, by Samantha McNally

Fabric Art at Marilyn Citron O’Rourke Gallery Left: Absent Friend; right: The Wasteland, by Jan Radesky

Art Exhibit: Fabric Art The West Meets East Jan Radesky Dec. 4, 2018-Jan. 3, 2019 Reception Dec. 9, 1-4pm

Benicia Public Library 150 East L Street Benicia, CA 94510 707-746-4343 benicialibrary.org/gallery Monday-Thursday 10am—9pm Friday-Sunday Noon—6pm 28 • Benicia Magazine

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Benicia Plein Air Gallery 307 First Street, Benicia Samanthamcnally.com 415.828.4991

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By Jeanne Steinmann Finding the perfect gift for loved ones isn’t always easy. In fact, it can be a real challenge to find something unique that will thrill the recipient and last through the ages. One idea is to check out “ornaments” for sale made from mini paintings at the Benicia Plein Air Gallery. Artist paintings, including Samantha McNally’s lovely watercolors of area scenes, will be hanging from the Christmas tree at the downtown gallery.

The mini paintings are all original works of art. Samantha McNally is the gallery’s featured artist for December, and many of her diminutive contributions will be displayed on the tree along with works from other member artists.

This month, visitors are in for a special treat during McNally’s artist reception Dec. 15, 3—5pm. Benicia’s First Tuesday Poets, along with Benicia Literary Arts authors, will read ekphrastic poetry and prose.

Painting watercolors for the past 25 years, McNally is also active in the Valley Art Gallery in Walnut Creek, and the California Watercolor Association. Her paintings show her love of Benicia landmarks as well as ocean and botanical themes.

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

Twin Chapels Mortuary

By Beth Steinmann Jan Radesky has been experimenting with fabrics since she was eight. The techniques she uses now, including Japanese sashiko, Chinese brush painting and fabric collage, grew out of childhood collages with magazines and paper. Sashiko means “little stab,” and uses a special needle and thread to create designs and patterns on traditional indigo fabric. Chinese brush painting is made with sumi ink and ink brushes on rice paper.

As a child, what Jan remembers most is “doing art: I loved to color, draw, paint, sew doll clothes, create something out of nothing … it didn’t matter what. Art was a chance to pretend, work with my hands, create, and be alone with my thoughts.” Through high school and college, she says, “I found that I loved to work in textiles, paper, wood, ink and watercolor.” Today, her fabric art process includes cutting small pieces of fabric, placing them on cotton muslin, gluing them down, and sewing them free-motion with a sewing machine.

Her exhibit at the Marilyn Citron O‘Rourke Gallery at the Benicia Library opens December 4th and goes through January 3rd, with a reception December 9, 1-4pm. The show is called The West Meets East, and is reflective of Jan’s thought process about the directions in culture, including the dwindling usage of words in the age of selfies. She reflects, “‘Thoughtful’ would be the word that best describes me. I carry around a thought, an idea, a scrap of paper for months, weeks, sometimes years until I find a way to express it. I use fabric, paint and any thing else in my environment that will portray the message that l have thought deeply about.” This exhibit will be Jan’s first solo show.

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Art

An Exploration of Gauguin’s Artistic Inspirations

central themes: relationships and spirituality, in Gauguin: A Spiritual Journey. The exhibit runs through Apr. 7, 2019 with more than 60 works in various artistic media.

In a special partnership with Copenhagen’s Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek, more than 60 works that include paintings, wood carvings, ceramics and works on paper are on view. These works also include art of the Pacific Islands from FAMSF’S own collection which, when combined with the Glyptotek pieces, encompass distinctive phases of Gauguin’s career to show, among other things, inspiration he found from his travels in the Pacific. Viewers will enjoy seeing Gauguin’s works, through the lens of historical perspective from early drawings to later important paintings, and the influence artists and places had on the progression of his career.

"The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco have the largest repository of works on paper in the western United States, including numerous works by Gauguin—among them, The Woman from Arles, one of his most important drawings,� says Melissa Buron, Director of the Art Division at FAMSF. “Putting these works on view with Gauguin’s stunning oil paintings provides an unprecedented opportunity for our collection to shine and take its place in the larger historical narrative.�

Gauguin: A Spiritual Journey De Young Museum Nov. 17, 2018—Apr. 7, 2019 Golden Gate Park, 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive San Francisco, CA 9:30am-5:15pm, Tues.–Sun. Open select holidays; closed most Mondays.

Tickets Adults $28. Discounts for students, youth, & seniors available.

Members and children five and under Free. deyoungmuseum. org/visit-us.

Staff writer Recently, the Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco (FAMSF) unveiled a new exhibition that examines the life and career of French artist Paul Gauguin. Opened Nov. 17 at the de Young museum, the exhibit examines Gauguin’s career through two

The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco oversee the de Young, located in Golden Gate Park, and the Legion of Honor, in Lincoln Park. It is the largest public arts institution in San Francisco, and one of the most visited arts institutions in the United States.

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