Benicia Magazine June 2014

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

By the Numbers A 2014 report by Andrew Chang & Company identifies Valero’s economic impact on our community. Findings include that Valero: •D irectly employs over 450 local workers.

• E mploys 250 additional contract workers daily.

•H as paid over $3 billion to contractors since 2006, generating $4.3 billion in economic activity.

• E mployees and the company have donated over $13.7 million to local charities in the last decade.

707-745-7534 June 2014

Correcting Myths About Valero’s Crude by Rail Project MYTH: The California Environmental Quality Act review by the city will be inadequate.

FACT: As the lead agency, the City has hired an environmental consultant, experts

in diverse fields and an experienced CEQA attorney to develop a thorough analysis of the project. The CEQA review is a comprehensive study that looks at all aspects of this project.

MYTH: Rail delivery of crude poses too great a health and safety risk FACT: Valero will meet or exceed all federal safety standards for railcars to ensure

the safety of our community and communities up-rail. Valero maintains a full-time, on-site emergency response team highly skilled and capable of responding to any hazardous material incident, including one involving railcars. Valero drills regularly with local, state and federal agencies using the Unified Command Structure to respond to emergencies both on and off-site. Railroad operation in California is highly regulated; the likelihood of a train derailment resulting in a crude oil spill is very remote.

According to Federal Railroad Administration statistics, Union Pacific Railroad, who will transport the railcars, has zero reportable hazmat releases from their operations in California in the past 5 years.

Water Conservation Efforts Began in 2000 Valero Water Conservation has pledged to continue its prudent use of untreated (raw) water used in its operations and explore ways to reduce further water use.

Valero’s water conservation efforts in Benicia began in 2000 when it acquired the refinery. By early 2007, Valero had already reduced raw water use by more than 15%—that’s 800,000 gallons per day!

That conservation trend continues today. The successful Valero Improvement Project (VIP) did not increase water use and the Crude by Rail project does not change water usage either.

Valero continues to develop strategies to reduce water use and energy use, and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

As an example, the Condensate Recovery Project—Phase 1, completed in May 2013, is saving more than 23 million gallons of water annually (72 acre feet) and reduced GHG emissions 2,300 tons annually.

In May, Valero proposed a project to the Community Sustainability Commission that will save an additional 38 million gallons of water annually (116 acre feet).

Visit www.saveourH2O.org to learn how you, your family and your business can save water.

Fast Fact: Valero pays over $7 million annually in City taxes each year.

Safety First: Cal/OSHA recently recertified the refinery as Voluntary Protection Program STAR Site for Valero’s safety practices and procedures—a continuous distinction since 2006.

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Contributorsmagazine Elizabeth d'Huart Madra Rue Beth Steinmann Christina Strawbridge Sue Sumner-Moore Photographers Jerry Bowles Malcolm Slight

Advertising sales Joey Baker 707.718.0166 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 © 2014, all rights reserved. Contents of Benicia Magazine cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed in Benicia Magazine editorial or advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, and may not reflect the opinion of Benicia Magazine’s management or publisher.

Subscriptions $18.00 per year. Benicia Magazine, 611 First Street, Benicia, CA 94510. 707.853.8159, beniciamagazine.com.

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Beautiful, inviting Benicia Portside Village, steps way from downtown and Benicia Marina. Multi-level living in this open, airy, 3bedroom, 2.5 bath condo. Entry deck, comfortable living room, high ceilings. Open kitchen, dining area/family room with cozy fireplace. Laundry facilities; spacious 2 car garage.

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 7

Benicia JUNE VOLUME 9 ISSUE 8

12

Features

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Bowled over by bocce The new, old fashioned shave craze A sunny outlook on solar

Departments 10 From the Editor

24 Trends

13

Backward Glance

A trip to New Orleans

The Alamo Rooms

for Wrestle Mania XXX

18

Downtown Map

20 Arsenal Map 22 Interview

26 Calendar of Events 28 Local Live Music 30 Guide to Local Restaurants

Chris Kuntz, pinball machine restoration and maintenance

Cover: Benicia bocce court, bocce ball set courtesy Leann and Bill Cawley, photo by Jerry Bowles Photos—Top: Benicia bocce court scoreboard; bottom, solar panels on Southampton roof, photos by Jerry Bowles Center: Old-fashioned shave tools 8 • Benicia Magazine

14 16

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 9

H

From the Editor June 2014

Photo by Malcolm Slight

ello, summer! From campground bonfires to backyard barbeques, summer inspires an attitude adjustment towards easy living. As we bid adieu to spring, we heed the whisper of summer’s promise: relaxation, travel and abundant sunshine. By the time you read this, Mike and I will just be returning from a ten-day vacation to Santa Fe. Our preferred mode of travel these days?

Amtrak! In just two nights, we’ll arrive at our destination. For this (our second) train trip, we booked a sleeper car—the pitch and sway of the train helps lull me to sleep. During daylight hours, with iPads in tow, we'll indulge our love of reading, for hours and hours: e-books, magazines, newspapers and more. When we feel the need to stir, the lounge and dining cars await. The landscape, much of which is unseen from a car, fascinates, and adds to the mystery of travel by rail—and one can swap travel stories with like-minded folks from all over the country.

As to the local scene, there’s a lot to do in June. We have added a new department to the magazine, “Local Live Music.” There are many Benicia venues booking bands that range from local talent to big-name draws. Benicia’s Peppino D’Agostino comes to mind. Peppino plays to international crowds, and June 6, he’s at the Benicia Historical Museum. This is a rare treat so get tickets early!

This month we also celebrate dads and grads—graduation dates for local high schools are listed in the Calendar, and Father’s Day is June 19. In dad’s honor we offer a fun take on the art of shaving—straight-edge, rich lather and all, on page 14. For sports enthusiasts of all ages and athletic abilities, check out our feature on bocce ball. Benicians have embraced the game to such a degree that there’s a waiting list for new teams. Also in this issue we take a look at Benicia’s investment in solar energy. Residents and civic leaders have taken the plunge, and the ubiquitous panels on roofs downtown and in Southampton are growing in number, in addition to the city’s solar fields.

June third, Benicia Unified is asking residents to vote yes on the Measure S school facilities bond, which would be added to our property tax bill. As a longtime Benicia resident, I know what it’s like to write that check every year. And yes, I’m still paying for previous bonds, even though I no longer have schoolaged kids. But I believe it’s a good investment. Two of the school bonds we are currently paying (which are already encumbered) expire in 2016 and 2018.

School bonds can only finance facility upgrades, and there is no other funding available to address the critical needs of the aging buildings. So how does this help people like me? It’s a simple equation: good schools = higher property values = community pride. Having decent, functioning facilities is a key component of student achievement—and will help keep API scores and graduation rates high.

Our schools currently rank #1 in Solano County, and are in the top 20% of schools statewide. Measure S will cost homeowners less than the cost of the retiring bonds. But besides the intrinsic value of my home, my personal satisfaction and quality of life here is priceless.

Finally, a big thanks to all of you who took the time to fill out our 100th issue survey, we received so many that we are still counting! Next month we will reveal the winner of the iPad 2, stay tuned. And if you ever miss an issue of the magazine, please email your address to editor@benicimagazine.com Enjoy the issue,

Tweet, post or send your suggestions & ideas to: editor@beniciamagazine.com www.beniciamagazine.com 10 • Benicia Magazine

Jeanne Steinmann

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It's Good Clean Fun Staff Writer Photos by Malcolm Slight California is famous for many, many things, but add another one to the list: bocce ball. We’ve embraced bocce with wide-open arms, and have become the unofficial US bocce capital. According to usabocce.com, bocce took California by storm in 1989. Here in Benicia, 40 teams compete, with court action seven days a week at the City’s two bocce courts behind the City gym at 151 East K Street. Bocce is a sport that’s accessible to everyone. From tots to senior citizens, it’s a democratic game for all ages and abilities.

Bocce is a very social game, often encompassing food and drink.

Bocce courts have sprung up just about everywhere: at wineries, bars, restaurants, parks, sporting and event facilities—even at private homes, where it is considered by many to be a plus during a home purchase, in the same way pools are attractive to some buyers.

Using a long, narrow court, the object of the game is to get as many of your bocce (bigger, weighted balls) as close to the pallino (smaller target ball) as possible. Points are awarded for getting your bocce closer to the pallino than your opponent.

When all balls have been thrown, the teams measure the distance of the balls from the pallino and points are then awarded.

12 • Benicia Magazine Currents

Bocce is a strategic game with an ancient lineage. As early as 5,000 BC, balls have been thrown towards a target, making it one of the oldest games known to man. Originating in Italy, the Romans, Egyptians and Greeks all played a form of the game— balls are thrown towards a fixed target (the pallino) to see who can get the closest. Also known in France as “petanque” and “boules,” the game has evolved throughout the millennia. Bocce is so addictive that it was banned in some countries in the Middle Ages, and in Venice in the late 1,500’s, playing was punishable by imprisonment—apparently nobody was getting their work done.

Its resurgence in the US has brought about thousands of leagues across the country, with over 25 million people participating in the game. Cherie McCammon, Benicia golf pro who also plays Bocce, says that the throw is similar to swinging a golf club, and playing one can can be helpful in mastering the other. Next to soccer and golf, bocce has the third most participation in sports in the U.S. There is always a waiting list for new bocce teams to play in the Benicia Bocce League, which is City-sponsored. And with BBQ pits near the courts and off-color team names like Consiglieri de Bocce, the Limoncellos, Boccelism and D’Boccery, it appears that the real object is good, clean fun.

Backwards Glance

Photo courtesy Benicia Historical Museum

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By Elizabeth d’Huart, Executive Director, Benicia Historical Museum Depicting a structure sometimes referred to as “The Alamo Rooms,” this frame structure was built in 1868 as a private residence which later operated as a rooming house and restaurant for those working on the railroad. During the 1940’s and early 1950’s, it became a brothel, said to contain an upstairs room hidden behind an ‘invisible’ door for those patrons who requested it!

It later served as an antique store (Tipton’s Antiques) and then as a restaurant space again, housing the Nantucket Fish Restaurant, Captain Blyther’s, and Sailor Jacks, its current incarnation.

DECKS • FENCES • ARBORS • RETAINING WALLS

BeniciaMagazine.com • 13

An Old-fashioned, Straight-razor Shave is Closer Than You Think

An Old-fashioned, Straight-razor Shave is Closer Than You Think

By Madra Rue Men have been shaving for a very long time—and that has not changed. What has changed is how the shaving occurs.

The age of convenience and expedience has overtaken the act of shaving, as it has so many other activities. Consider the shave. A man's shave, not one with a tin can of foam and a plastic disposable razor, or an electric version. No, I am talking about the kind of shave out of a Clint Eastwood western, or a movie about a 1930's gangster. What they both have in common is the ritual of the shave.

Now, in our grandparent’s generation, going for a shave really meant something. You knew that you were going to be treated to multiple hot towels, shaving creams, and various after shaves. This was at a time when a man going for a haircut and shave would have never expected to have his hair washed and blown dry. Back then you knew that you would be resting comfortably in a large, reclining barber chair and receiving an excellent, close shave from a skilled professional. And yes, it was pretty much a place for men, and that was all right. It was not just that the men did not want to hear gossip, because we know that men gossip as well. Instead, the traditional barbershop was a place where men could gossip about men stuff, and that, too, was part of the shaving ritual.

Visiting your favorite barber a couple of times a week, or more, kept you in touch with friends and the community, which is something that we, as a society, seem to make so little time for these days. It also builds a wonderful, calm moment into your day where you can’t be easily distracted.

In today’s world that means you won’t be glued to your smart phone or tablet. This idea seems to be catching on in many areas around the country, including the Bay Area.

14 • Benicia Magazine

In the last five or six years, there has been a slow but steady revival in barbers providing traditional straightedge shaves, and in the sale of more traditional shaving supplies. There are a couple of reasons that really stand out. The first is getting a good, close shave. While the electric shaver is convenient, for many they just don’t seem to ever get in close enough.

The plastic razors, while adequate, seem to clog easily and the blades just aren’t of high quality. The other reason is environmental. All of those plastic disposable razors end up in a landfill. Whether they are the biodegradable type or not, there are still over 2 billion disposable razors going into the landfill in the United States each year, according to the EPA (epa.gov/superfund/students/clas_act/haz-ed/ff06.pdf).

While some men have taken the leap backward and started using straight razors, most have turned to wet shaving with double edge safety razors. With fine shaving soaps and creams becoming readily available, it seems that a good, close shave is well within reach. The men’s traditional shaving supply market has increased to the point that Proctor & Gamble, the king of disposable razors, decided to get into the game. Proctor & Gamble purchased The Art of Shaving boutique and doubled the number of stores across the country, according to the Los Angeles Times (www.latimes.com, January 3, 2012), including stores in Walnut Creek and San Francisco.

For those who want to experience the art and ritual of a good, hot towel straight razor shave, you don’t have to travel outside of Benicia. Dave’s Barber Shop & Shaving Parlor offers a great experience. Dave is working hard to keep the art of shaving alive. His skill and dedication to the tradition show in his work. If it’s a close shave that you are looking for, it is closer than you think.

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Here Comes The Sun BENICIA’S SOL AR E XPLOSION

“Benicia’s solar monitoring website estimates that enough solar energy reaches the earth’s surface each minute to match the world’s energy demands for a whole year.”

16 • Benicia Magazine

By Beth Steinmann

Photos by Jerry Bowles

Benicia residents may have noticed carports around town topped with solar panels in recent months. These are part of a citywide energy conservation project. According to the city of Benicia website, ci.benicia.ca.us, solar panels at 10 sites will generate about 40% of the energy used in city operations. Sites include carports at the pool, City Hall, the Benicia Community Center, the city corporation yard, and the roof of the Southampton Fire Station, as well as on the ground at the water treatment plant and at three water-pumping stations. Funding for the project comes from PG&E rebates and a $13 million bond issue. If you’d like to see live data from the solar sites, go to live.deckmonitoring.com/?id=city_ of_benicia%20. You’ll find out exactly how much energy is being generated overall, the breakdown by site and date and how much carbon and gasoline have been saved. You can also check out a fun slideshow about how solar works.

There are a growing number of technologies that harness the sun’s energy, which can be categorized as active and passive. While passive technologies focus on things like space design, building orientation and selection of favorable building materials, active solar includes the use of photovoltaic panels, which produce electricity, and solar thermal collectors, which gather and convert energy to heat water.

Benicia’s first solar project dates back to the early 1980’s, when Southampton’s Solar Village was conceived in response to the 1970’s energy crisis. 258 single-family homes were built using a combination of active and passive technology. Homes equipped with solar panels enjoy lower electricity bills and some even sell extra electricity back to the city.

For homeowners, the obvious pros of solar include much lower bills and zero emissions. Payback time depends on the type of system and location. Benicia resident Marilyn Bardet had solar panels installed on her home in 2004 and loves her system. “I’ve had no problems and the panels are still producing at their original rate. I pay about $4.50 a month for electricity. Frankly, I think it’s a worthwhile investment. It costs less than a car, and for my house, it made the most sense,” says Bardet. It’s also completely renewable—Benicia’s solar monitoring website estimates that enough solar energy reaches the earth’s surface each minute to match the world’s energy demands for a whole year.

However, many people find the up front cost, as well as potential repairs, prohibitive. Solar panels also only work with full exposure to sun, which means only certain sites are eligible and a backup power source is necessary.

According to Mike Steinmann, a sustainable electrical engineer and long time Benicia resident, although some government rebates for solar have dried up due to lack of funding, the efficiency of the technology is continuously increasing. Individuals have the choice to purchase a system up front or contract with a third party purchase agreement, so the consumer buys the services produced by the system, rather than the system itself.

Benicia mayor Elizabeth Patterson sees numerous benefits to the city’s solar investment. “By investing in solar, Benicia can reduce air pollution, fight climate change and create jobs. Some people have said that the investment is strictly a good business decision because the potential energy savings over the years. Investing in solar and clean tech is more than just good business; it sends a message to entrepreneurs that Benicia welcomes innovation. Early adoption of solar for the city sends a message that we care about the environment, our economy, and we have the willpower to make a difference for future generations.”

State support for solar technology (both business and residential) has been high since Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger’s “million solar roofs” vision, which precipitated the California Solar Initiative.

This ten-year project was launched in 2007 and consists of various incentives provided by the state’s three power utilities. According to Ca.gov’s 2013 assessment of the program, 66% of the installation goal has been reached, with an additional 19% reserved in pending projects.

For up-to-date information on current rebates, visit cleanenergyauthority.com/solar-rebates-and-incentives/california/.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 17

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Benicia Marina

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Julie's Gift of Massage…a relaxing, therapeutic experience.

Julie Parsons, CMP, CAMTC New client introductory offer Mon-Sat by appointment 707.297.1371 • juliesgiftofmassage.com 310 Military West, Suite A, Benicia

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BOOKS • TOYS • GAMES • GREETING CARDS

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

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

Camellia Tea Room 828 First Street Downtown Benicia 707.746.5293 camelliatearoom.com

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Tannery Bldg, 129 First St., Benicia • 707.205.6960

Specialty Yarns and Classes Giovanna Sensi-Isolani, fiber artist

Dudikoff Insurance Agency Planning, Products, & Services

George Dudikoff, Agent, Lic. #OB13442 159 East D Street, Suite A, Benicia • P: 707.746.7395 • F: 707.747.6814

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Collectibles-Antiques-Music Consignment and eBay drop-off

Real Estate doesn’t have to be this painful!

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

Benicia Golf Association BeniciaGolf.org

To find out more call Dale Thorne, 707.745.4852

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11. Grossman Financial, 940 Adams Street, Ste. L

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 21

Interview with

Chris Kuntz

By Sue Sumner-Moore Photo by Malcolm Slight

Chris Kuntz does business with some of the hottest tech companies in the Bay Area.

“I go to Google, Facebook and Twitter to fix the games there and they say, ‘You have the coolest job,’ ” Chris says.

As owner of Pinball Pirate in Benicia, Chris repairs and restores pinball machines. He spends his time surrounded by games that inevitably bring smiles to people’s faces. The sounds, lights, careening balls and flippers remind most people of happy times. “How can you not like pinball?” says Chris, 47.

His love of pinball goes back to his teen years.

Chris grew up in the Midwest and moved to Pleasanton with his family when he was 18.

“One of the first things I did was get out the Yellow Pages and look up arcades. I found one within walking distance,” he says. “If you’re in there all day anyway and you’re helpful, they hand you a bottle of Windex and pay you.”

He later worked for an electronics repair firm and co-founded T Minus One in 1995.

The game company moved to Benicia in 2002.

Several partners were involved over the years, and Chris struck out on his own with Pinball Pirate in 2012.

Now his hobby and business overlap. The Bay Point resident estimates he has about 100 pinball and other types of games stacked neatly on shelves in a warehouse in the industrial park. The well-organized space includes work benches and a bank of file cabinets filled with manuals and his handwritten notes on how to repair problems he’s found during his decades of fixing games.

Most of the 60 or so pinball machines on the shelves belong to Chris. “Since this is my hobby, it does create this weird gray area.

When I buy something, is it for the company or is it for me?”

22 • Benicia Magazine Interview

What convinced you to look beyond the bright colors and lights and start repairing pinball machines?

I wanted to play the game. When I was working (at the arcade in Pleasanton), we had the keys so if a machine broke, we could try to fix it. I figured, how hard could it be? I had a bicycle and I fixed it.

I would look at the one that worked and compare it to the one that didn’t.

So you could see the problem and fix it.

The mechanical stuff was easy, but the electronic stuff was a mystery then.

If we couldn’t fix it, we’d call Tom (Johnson from Tilt Electronics). I’d pump him with questions and borrow his tools.

He hired me full-time in 1988.

What’s the state of the pinball business now?

It used to be that you’d put a game anywhere—the 7-11 had a couple in the corner. Now the ATM and lottery kiosk make more money.

Video games were all there was for a few years—1981, 82, 83. But after the mid-80s, pinball made its comeback.

Ultimately it was home consoles that did in all coin-operated games. It made it so that even the coin-operated video games didn’t make money anymore.

Pinball is at this weird crossroads now.

It’s not at the point where you can make money operating games, but at the same time, there’s never been a better time to get into this as a hobby. If you collect, it’s never been as good.

Who collects pinball machines?

Collectors tend to be nice people who seem to have a sense of fun.

Games aren’t that expensive. You do need space. It’s not like collecting stamps. By the time you get half a dozen games, you need room. You have to be willing to store them and be willing to tinker with them once in a while or have someone tinker with them.

It’s joyous when people have a pinball machine in their homes and it’s their baby.

Any restoration or repair project that stands out in your memory?

There are things you remember but for the dumbest reasons. I repainted a Captain America game and we took pictures, so I remember it because of the pictures and because we don’t paint that often.

Service calls stand out more, people stand out more. You remember that someone was a really nice guy. The shop is always the same, but other places are different from place to place.

You had a mentor early on. Are you mentoring someone to do this work?

I should. I feel like when I die there will be no one else. I should have a talent contest: win a low-paying job for the rest of your life (laughing).

Do you have a favorite game?

I get asked that a lot, but no, I don’t.

I have a soft spot for Bally’s games because they were the games I played when I was growing up, but it changes.

You play a game for a while and get tired of it and go to the next one.

Sometimes you don’t think about a particular game, and then you work on it.

It’s like you bond with it. You put enough

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work into it that you appreciate the engineering and rules and you can see what the designers were doing there.

Do you play video games?

Yeah, but not home-console games. I play video games here. I like black-and-white video games. There are a lot of archetypes from that era. … Pac Man is an archetypical maze game. A lot of the ideas we use now come from those early games.

Do you like video games or pinball machines better?

I won’t say one is better. They’re different experiences. It’s like asking if pinball or lasagna is better—they are completely different things. If you’re hungry, you’re going to pick lasagna every time.

I was born at the right time to appreciate both. But pinball is more real. It’s not like there’s some software working against you.

It’s real; it seems like a fair fight.

At the core, I guess there’s not a difference. … There’s a lot of similarity in terms of what is going on in your head. You’re having fun.

Reclaimed wood & metal items Decorative bins & boxes Tableware & textiles Letter & number art Greeting Cards Frames Home decor Clocks Chalkboards Journals Notebooks

If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing for a living?

That all depends on what people would have come into my life. I might be at some tech company writing software. I could be in graphic design because that’s what I went to college for.

Customers have offered me jobs. One was writing software. Another was fixing the machines that test the purity of silicon wafers and you got to travel all over the world.

My goal isn’t to keep the money flowing in.

My goal is to have fun.

611 First Street, Downtown Benicia 707.853.8159

BeniciaMagazine.com • 23

Trends

Finding the

"New World Order" in

New Orleans Story and photos by Christina Strawbridge It's been years since I visited the Big Easy, and since it is the next best place to get a French fix, I jumped at a chance to get reacquainted. This trip, I accompanied my son Andrew, who wanted to celebrate his 40th birthday in the city known for jazz, beignets, Cajun cuisine and WrestleMania XXX. This wrestling extravaganza was the main reason for our trip; Andrew has been a wrestlemaniac since he was a kid. 75,167 fans from all 50 states and 37 countries would converge on the Mercedes-Benz Superdome to see their favorite wrestling personalities battle for the belt and the title of World Heavyweight Champion. The event is broadcast live in the U.S. on WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) Network and via cable and satellite providers on pay-per-view in more than 100 countries and 20 languages.

New Orleans was abuzz with excitement, hosting one of the largest entertainment spectacles in the world, with banners and billboards along Canal Street and in the French Quarter. It's no wonder that the red carpet was rolled out for wrestling fans of all ages, genders, and nationalities, with the millions of dollars being spent on sold out hotel rooms and booked restaurants.

We started in the French Quarter and the infamous Bourbon Street. It was 10:30am and with intermittent rain there was little bead throwing, but Hurricane cocktails in their long-necked plastic glasses were everywhere. With 233 bars in the Quarter, each establishment is trying to outdo their competition with a drink or theme that sets them apart. Although Bourbon Street gets the press, Royal Street, my favorite, is a block away with its hidden gardens, quiet restaurants and inns, wrought iron terraces and galleries and antique stores. As we strolled to Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, we came across the Moonwalk, named after a former mayor, bordering the mighty Mississippi. Observing the river from this vantage point was somewhat disappointing with it's murky water and abandoned warehouses that dot the river's edge.

A hop on the double decker tour bus offered us a great perspective of the city that is both historic and modern. Our last stop was the New Orleans Convention Center. Andrew and I spent several hours inside and surprise, surprise! A tandem wrestling event, called WrestleMania Axxess, was being held inside, allowing access to wrestling stars for fans that just can't get enough of the wrestling experience before the big event.

24 • Benicia Magazine Trends

Top: garden district private home; bottom left, Andrew Strawbridge; bottom right, Cornstalk Hotel After walking for what seemed miles, we escaped the hype for a nearby restaurant called Root. Located in the Warehouse District, it has an unconventional menu with hip twists such as pig's ear and shrimp-stuffed deviled eggs. Root was named one of Bon Appetite’s 50 Best New Restaurants, and awarded Best New Restaurant by New Orleans Magazine. Root is definitely not your father’s New Orleans restaurant.

The next afternoon, Andrew headed to the Superdome and I hopped the bus to the Garden District for a walking tour. Most of the District has been restored to original condition. The commercial area is having a resurgence of boutique businesses and galleries that are attracting a new generation of shoppers and foodies. My evening concluded back on Royal Street at Café Amelie for dinner under the trees. The Café is situated in a lovely French Quarter courtyard, with a carriage house that was home to Alice Heine, America's first Princess of Monaco. Right across the street is the Cornstalk Hotel, which is the most photographed in the Quarter, identified by the cornstalk wrought iron fence in front.

As Andrew and I waited for our flight home, we shared a beignet, a bowl of gumbo and a milestone birthday in a place that never seems to grow old.

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BENICIA UNIFIED SCHOOLS Registration for Continuing Students Registration for all BUSD students (your student must be enrolled to attend these dates*)

Benicia Middle August 15 and 18 Benicia High August 12 and 13 Liberty High August 13 All Elementary Sites August 12

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

Enrollment for New Students All sites are currently doing Enrollment for the 2014-15 school year.

Enrollment is by appointment only. Information can be found on the BUSD website under

Parents/Students and Student Enrollment.

Call your local school site or the district office.

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

All students entering 7th-12th grades must show proof of a Tdap booster before registering

Great schools, quality programs.

Benicia Unified School District 350 East K Street

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 25

June 2014 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

6/3 Remember to Vote 6/5-/6/26 Benicia Farmers Market Thursdays 4-8pm

Fresh fruits, vegetables & baked goods Gourmet & hot foods, arts & crafts First Street between B & D Streets Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

6/5 Liberty High Graduation Approx. 5-6pm

Benicia’s Marina Green libertyhs-beniciaunified-ca.schoolloop.com 707.747.8323

6/6 Friday Concert Series Daniel and Francesca 7pm

Classical guitar and flute St. Paul’s Church, First and J Streets Stpaulsbenicia.com 707.745.0307

6/6 Peppino D’Augustino in Concert 8pm

6/7 Benicia High School Graduation 11am

Drolette Field, Benicia High School 1101 Military West beniciahs-beniciaunified-ca.schoolloop.com 707.747.8325

6/11 Python’s Reptile Kingdom 11:30am Meet all the reptiles that travel with Python Ron City Gym, 180 East L Street Ci.benicia.ca.us 707.746.4285

6/13 Arts Benicia Artists in Residency 7-9pm Opening Reception Exhibit runs 6/14-6/29 Gallery open Sun-Thurs 12-5pm 991 Tyler Street, Suite 114 Artsbenicia.org 707.747.0131

6/14 First Annual Gigantic Garage Sale 9am-2pm

Selections from his new CD, Penumbra Benicia Historical Museum 2060 Camel Road Beniciahistoricalmuseum.org 707.745.5435

Multi-organizational, dozens of tables Fundraiser for the Benicia League of Women Voters At the Clock Tower; free lemonade nilesmedders@gmail.com 707.205.9137

6/6, 6/20 Ghost Walk 8pm

6/14 Benicia Art Walk 3-7pm

Paranormal history of Downtown Benicia Led by paranormal expert First & third Fridays, space is limited Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791 26 • Benicia Magazine Calendar

Sip, stroll, dine, hear live music and take self-guided tour View glass art and watch demonstrations Visitbenicia.org/events 707.746.4202

6/15 Honor Dad on Father’s Day 6/15-6/30 Mare Island Revisited: Art of Decay

Art exhibit featuring the work of Gary Cullen Marilyn Citron O’Rourke Gallery 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

6/21 Spring Wine Walk 1-5pm

Taste over a dozen wines poured at downtown shops Downtown First Street Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

6/25 Movie at Community Center 11am Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs Bring a blanket or low chair & enjoy the movie 370 East L Street Ci.benicia.ca.us 707.746.4285

6/27 Movie Under the Stars: Frozen

Bring pillows, blankets, low chairs, picnic Movie starts at dusk City Park Gazebo Ci.benicia.ca.us 707.746.4285 Photo above: Benicia State Recreation Area

by Jerry Bowles

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Benicia Grill

Serving Benicia's orthodontic needs for over 25 years

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Sailor Jacks Lobster Tuesdays Prime Rib Wednesdays Bistro 3 course dinner Thursday

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Purchase one lunch or dinner entrée in June & receive one complimentary dessert with this ad*

Full-line pet store Do it yourself pet wash Professional dog & cat grooming

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BeniciaMagazine.com • 27

iC s u m E v i l locaL

JUNE 5, 5PM Jazz Nights at The Union Hotel Prorsday and Joy Band The Union Hotel, 401 First Street unionhotelrestaurant.net 707.746.7847 JUNE 6, 7PM Friday Concert Series Daniel and Francesca St. Paul’s Church, First & J Streets stpaulsbenicia.org 707.745.0307 JUNE 6, 8PM The Hopeful Romantics Upstairs at the Café 440 First Street firststreetcafe.com 707.745.1400 JUNE 6, 8PM Peppino D’ Agostino in concert Stone Hall, Benicia Historical Museum 2060 Camel Road beniciahistoricalmuseum.org 707.745.5435 JUNE 6, 8PM The Cork Pullers Upstairs at the Café 440 First Street firststreetcafe.com 707.745.1400 JUNE 6, 9PM The Delta Rockets The Rellik Tavern 726 First Street therelliktavern.com 707.746.1137 28 • Benicia Magazine Local Live Music

JUNE 7, 9PM Lumberyard The Rellik Tavern 726 First Street therelliktavern.com 707.746.1137 JUNE 12, 5PM Jazz Nights at The Union Hotel Prorsday and Joy Band The Union Hotel, 401 First Street unionhotelrestaurant.net 707.746.7847 JUNE 13, 9PM Justin Abrams The Rellik Tavern 726 First Street therelliktavern.com 707.746.1137 JUNE14, 8PM The TuneRiders Upstairs at the Café 440 First Street firststreetcafe.com 707.745.1400 JUNE 14, 9PM Billy London The Rellik Tavern 726 First Street therelliktavern.com 707.746.1137 JUNE 19, 5PM Jazz Nights at The Union Hotel Prorsday and Joy Band The Union Hotel, 401 First Street unionhotelrestaurant.net 707.746.7847

JUNE 20, 8PM Ralph Woodson Unplugged Upstairs at the Café 440 First Street firststreetcafe.com 707.745.1400 JUNE 20, 9PM Against Leo The Rellik Tavern 726 First Street therelliktavern.com 707.746.1137 JUNE 21, 9PM Muncie and Loose Blues The Rellik Tavern 726 First Street therelliktavern.com 707.746.1137 JUNE 26, 5PM Jazz Nights at The Union Hotel Prorsday and Joy Band The Union Hotel, 401 First Street unionhotelrestaurant.net 707.746.7847 JUNE 27, 9PM Lee Howard The Rellik Tavern 726 First Street therelliktavern.com 707.746.1137 JUNE 28, 8PM The Skidanenko & Green Duet; Canyon Johnson Upstairs at the Café 440 First Street firststreetcafe.com 707.745.1400

OCCASIONAL LIVE MUSIC: The Loft Wine Bar, wineattheloft.com; Benicia Veteran’s Hall, beniciavetshall.com; Benicia Farmer’s Market, beniciamainstreet.org; Kinders BBQ, kindersbbq.com Check local listings for times, ticket information and updates.

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SIP, WALK & SHOP!

Saturday, June 21, 1-5pm Stroll Downtown Benicia on the first day of summer and taste over a dozen wines being poured inside participating stores.

Ages 21 and older $25 advance/ $30 day of event includes souvenir wine glass Tickets at Benicia Main Street, 90 First Street, and online at

BeniciaMainStreet.org • 707.745.9791

BeniciaMagazine.com • 29

Guide TO LOCAL RESTAURANTS

SPOTLIGHT ON

JAVA POINT CAFÉ

With a street-side plaza strewn with tables, this popular café, known for their freshly made breakfast and lunch options, often has a line out the door.

8:30am-5pm Mon-Sat 8:30am-4pm Sun 366 First Street, Benicia

707.745.1449

BENICIA GRILL Family-style food with an extensive menu.

Come with an appetite—serving sizes are generous. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the dining room or on the patio.

4760 E Second Street, Benicia, 707.751.0155 beniciagrill.com BUON APPETITO Intimate dining at this downtown eatery serving contemporary Italian cuisine. Try the Risotto special for a dinner treat, or a variety of scaloppini favorites.

191 Military East #F, Benicia, 707.746.7410 buonappetitorestuarant.net CAMELLIA TEA ROOM Located in a beautifully restored Victorian building with ornate dining room, Camellia Tea serves traditional afternoon tea, along with lunch and desserts, all made fresh daily.

828 First Street, Benicia, 707.746.5293 camelliatearoom.com

MATSURI SUSHI Favorite standby fresh Nigiri, sushi rolls and tempura are available along with specialty rolls, salads and sake. Lunch & Dinner.

920 First Street #102, Benicia, 707.747.1585 NINE O SEVEN GRILL Fresh American cuisine with a Mexican flair is served in this upscale café with a heated outdoor patio in the back, or at street-side tables. The fish tacos are legendary.

907 First Street Benicia, 707.745.0505 907grill.com PALERMOS CUCINA ITALIANA Italian specialties at Palermos Cucina Italiana on Columbus Pkwy and Venticellos downtown.

Pastas, soup, salads, meats and seafood.

Lunch & dinner.

2050 Columbus Pkwy, Benicia, 707.748.1011 palermosbenicia.com

THE RELLIK TAVERN Live music and community events keep this upscale tavern hopping. Food offerings, ordered by iPad, include tasty tapas and a huge selection of specialty beers on tap.

726 First Street, Benicia, 707.746.1137 therelliktavern.com SAILOR JACKS Fine dining at its best with a spectacular view of the Carquinez Strait with terrific breakfast, lunch and dinner options served in a rustic, intimate atmosphere.

123 First Street, Benicia, 707.746.8500 sailor-jacks.com SANDOVAL’S MEXICAN FOOD The fun décor and good food make this Benicia institution a local family favorite.

Try the shrimp, chicken or steak fajitas; the salsa gets rave reviews.

Mon-Sat, Benicia, 707.746.7830.

LITTLE THAI Pad Thai, savory soups and fresh, inventive salads and curry dishes along with other Thai favorites, served in a casual atmosphere.

870 Southampton Road Benicia, 707.747.9777

ROOKIES SPORTS BAR & GRILL This casual sports bar and full-service, familystyle restaurant serves lunch, bar snacks and dinner. It’s pub-grub meets fi ne cuisine: salads, sandwiches, burgers and sensational sweet potato fries.

321 First Street, Benicia, 707.746.7665 rookiesbenicia.com

THE WORKSHOP This popular take-out spot serves up seriously delicious New Orleans-style dishes. Morning Beignets lead into lunch options of hot sandwiches and fresh made soups and sides.

511 Claverie Way, Benicia 707.7476028

LUCCA BAR & GRILL The warm, urban décor with a friendly atmosphere lures diners in, and they are not disappointed.

Small bites, lunch and dinner are served in the dining room, bar and street-side tables.

439 First Street, #102, Benicia, 707.745.0943 luccabar.com

ROSIE’S CAFÉ This sweet little roadside diner serves full breakfast and lunch options of hearty American fare. Try the biscuits & gravy or grits, and the homemade soups and chili.

3001 Bayshore, Benicia, 707.745.1154 cafebenicia.com

VENTICELLOS Italian specialties at Venticellos downtown and at Palermos Cucina Italiana on Columbus Pkwy.

Pastas, soup, salads, meats and seafood. Lunch and dinner; weekend brunch at Venticellos.

911 First Street, Benicia, 707.747.5263 venticellos.com

30 • Benicia Magazine Restaurant Guide

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PLUMBIN G

T

LISH E D 1

9

ES

AB

75

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INC

BEN IC

“PEOPLE TAKING CARE OF PEOPLE...”

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

Residential and Commercial Service 24/7

(707) 745-2930

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www.BeniciaPlumbing.com CA Lic. #329632

Best of 2009, 2010, 2011 & 2012

Welcome to Tosch Dental

Feel at home—even in the dental chair!

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

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

BeniciaMagazine.com • 31

4852 East 2nd Street, Benicia 707-745-2100 aqc@aqchome.com AFFORDABLE QUALITY Cabinets and Countertops

Working with true professionals like Allan, Susy and Mary Ann made our kitchen transformation manageable and rewarding. They blended all of our ideas into a functional and beautiful space. The installation process was well-organized and efficient.

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

We’ll enjoy our kitchen for many years to come.

—Anne and John

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

32 • Benicia Magazine Trends