Benicia Magazine May 2019

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May 2019

10

Contents

24

Features Fox and Fawn Bakehouse opens this month 20 Outdoor Sherpa: Getting outside from trails to waterfalls

Scene

24

Food & Drink

Shared plates and impossibly good burgers at Lucca Bar and Grill

10

Three wineries to try with women at the helm

11

People

Prolific Benicia writer Sheri Hoffmann finds joy in the mundane

20 In Every Issue From the Editor 8 Calendar 26

12

Music 27

13

Art Painter Judy Neal and photographer Philip Venable exhibit their works at Arata Gallery 28

Final week for SWEAT, BOTTG's spring production 14

Artist paintings depict the U.S. border tragedy, tapping into her personal childhood experience 28

Veterans

Memorial Day celebration to be held at Benicia Military Cemetery

Culture

Derek Tam takes the baton as Vallejo Choral Society's new Artistic Director

14

May Days and Spring Things Neptune's Daughter Installation Bras for a Cause Milinda Perry Gallery Golden Gate Symphony

Trends Mother and son line up for ABC's iconic talk show The View 30

16

Cover Photo: From left, Gemma and Tara Allen at Fox and Fawn's vegan bakery, photo by Gian Allen Above left: Mt. Diablo Waterfall, photo by Scott Ramsey Above right: Gemma and Tara Allen, Lisa Duncan Photography

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FROM THE EDITOR

May 2019

Lisa Duncan Photography

This month, you’ll find our usual compendium of stories on all things Benicia and surrounding areas and then some. First up—Outdoor Sherpa: our guide to area waterfalls and wildflowers. After a rainy winter and early spring, the sunshine beckons. What better way to enjoy it than to take advantage of nature’s beauty?

We also show some love to our neighbor to the south, focusing on the revitalization of downtown Martinez. Improvements are at a fever pitch—with a new administration building in the works, streets dedicated to cafes with ample outdoor seating, coffeehouses, breweries and new retail stores. Old buildings are being stripped to their original facades, proudly displaying their historic roots. (Next month, we’ll catch up with what’s happened with the two red-tagged buildings on Benicia’s First Street).

As a nod to women (Happy Mother’s Day, Benicia moms!), we focus on three who run area wineries. And, debuting this month, Tara Allen, owner of Fox and Fawn Bakehouse—you know her from her wonderful cupcakes at the farmers market—opens her new vegan bakery at the foot of First Street.

Finally, creative nonfiction writer Sheri Hoffman finds (and writes about) joy in the unexceptional.

Aside from the usual vacay exodus, on Memorial Day, the annual celebration at Benicia’s historic Military Cemetery honors veterans with a military fly-over, color guard, the Diablo Regional Concert Band, rifle salute and much more.

Hats off to the Benicia Historical Society for the event.

Enjoy the sunshine, Jeanne Steinmann

Don’t miss the annual Run for Education Sunday, May 5; it’s not too late to get tickets. Visit Beniciarunforeducation.org.

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

8 • Benicia Magazine

@Jeannesteinmann

The Golden Gate Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, along with the Benicia chapter members, will perform Carmina Burana with chorus master Gaspard Mbole, at the Benicia Clock Tower, Mother’s Day, May 12, 4pm. Visit Goldengatesymphony.org.

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Scene Food and Drink

Eating the Impossible at Lucca Bar & Grill Courtney Tait I don’t typically order a veggie burger when I eat out, mostly because it’s one of those things I can whip up (as in, de-thaw and toss into a frying pan) at home.

But when a certain editor of a local magazine raved about the burgers at Lucca Bar & Grill, I was intrigued. “I’m a vegetarian,” I said. “They have an Impossible Burger,” she said. “Try it.”

And so I found myself on a Monday afternoon, perched solo at a window table in the back, biting into a crispy, goldenbrown bun packed with a vegan patty, butter lettuce, tomatoes, pickled onions, spicy pickles, and blue cheese, smeared with 1000 Island dressing.

The textures were perfect. It was juicy AND crunchy. It had that just-right amount of spice and tang, and it was far superior to anything I could assemble at home.

Best of all, it came cradled next to a bed of fries: thick-cut, bronzed, and generously salted. I’d brought a book to read, but the flavors, the oldies music streaming from the jukebox, and the view of a sunny West E Street were companion enough.

Lucca was opened in 2009 by Jan and Carol Lucca. Prior to that, they owned O’Leary’s, a bar farther down First Street.

When rising rents forced them to relocate, they had trouble finding a space zoned for a bar, so they needed to incorporate food into the business. Their original 10 • Benicia Magazine

concept for Lucca was French Californian cuisine, but it didn’t catch on. A new vision emerged: Gastro-pub style food.

“We figured Benicia needed more of a bar and grill with upscale bar food,” says Sonya Battersby, Lucca’s longtime general manager. “There was nothing like it at the time — you really only had Mexican, Chinese, pizza and seafood.”

Aiming for a menu that could be loosely described as “San Francisco food meets Napa,” Lucca found its stride. Today, Chef Allen Manuel and his team offer a range of shared plates (including jalapeno poppers with garlic cream cheese and bacon), sandwiches, salads, burgers, pasta dishes, and meat and seafood entrees, plus three daily specials. The popular Fish and Chips are served with creamy coleslaw, and the batter is made inhouse with Sierra Nevada beer. Tuesday and Wednesday nights feature the Fried Chicken special, served in a bucket with cheddar biscuits and campfire corn.

“We take your basic dish and put our twist on it,” says Battersby. Lucca provides plenty of drink options to pair with your meal: cocktails made with seasonal fruits and herbs (they brandy their own cherries and make their own simple syrups), 20 beers on tap, and a California-dominated wine list, with more than 30 choices offered by the glass. You won’t find a better deal on bottles: with a minimum $15

food purchase per table, you can enjoy any bottle of wine at half price.

With brick walls, orange accents, and a sculptural lighting piece above the bar made with electrical cords, Lucca has a modern industrial vibe that’s inviting whether you’re dressed up for date night or stopping for lunch after a workout. “We get people from all walks of life,” says Battersby. “We wanted to create a local place that anyone feels welcome at.”

Since 2016, Lucca has become Benicia’s go-to spot for outdoor live music, transforming their back lot into a lively beer garden with bands and barbecue. From March through October, you can listen to everything from country to motown to rock—while downing a cold brew and digging into fare like bratwurst, tri tip, or a Kobe hotdog. The bands hail from all over California, performing on an intimate corner stage.

“People love what we’re doing and love that Benicia has it,” says Battersby.

“With friendly staff and good food that our cooks are proud of it, there’s always a reason for people to come to Lucca.”

Lucca Bar & Grill 707.745.3740 439 First St., Benicia

Lucca Bar and Grill dining room, Lisa Duncan Photography

Some of the Best Napa Wines are Made By Women Mary Hand In the 1800s wine making was a grueling industry. Competitive and physically taxing, the business was dominated by strong and tenacious winemakers, almost exclusively men.

Yet there were two women who accepted the task and are known as the first women winemakers in Northern California. After her husband's death in 1882, Hannah Weinberger stepped up to fill the role left by her husband.

She became the first female winery owner and winemaker in Napa Valley. Josephine Tychson, a contemporary of Weinberger in Napa, had a similar story. She ran the family winery in 1886, following the death of her spouse.

These pioneers helped pave the way for women in the industry today. Still few and far between, we sought out three women in the Northern California wine industry who have made a name for themselves, and the wineries they represent in the process.

Stephanie Putman

Raymond Vineyard & Cellar Director of Winemaking Photo by Kara Allen Stephanie is a Northern California native and as many of her contemporaries, a graduate of UC Davis. Stephanie has a passion and skill for winemaking that have ultimately gained the position as Director of Winemaking at renowned Raymond Vineyards. Her wines have won acclaim, including recognition in the Wine Spectator’s Top 100, Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 and being named The Wine News Cabernet of the Year.

"I have always considered Raymond Vineyards to be a benchmark for highquality Napa Valley wines with elegance and finesse," Stephanie says.

Wow! This is a winery that blows past the sedate norms of conventional wineries. Sexy and dramatic with over the top sensory impact, Raymond delivers fabulous wine in a stunning setting.

Raymond Vineyard

44 miles from Benicia 849 Zinfandel Lane, St. Helena, CA Raymondvineyards.com

Margo Van Staaveren

Chateau St. Jean Winemaker and General Manager Photo Courtesy Chateau St. Jean Also a graduate of U.C. Davis, winemaker Margo Van Staaveren has celebrated her 38th harvest at Chateau St Jean. During her tenure with the winery, Margo has played a pivotal role in every facet of the winemaking process. As winemaker, she makes the final decisions involving blend and style to produce consistently high-quality wines in the super premium and luxury catagories. Margo’s favorite aspect of being a winemaker is the ritual of it all. “I love the cycle of winemaking. One cycle is the planning of a vineyard then planting it, watching it develop and finally, making the wine from the vineyard.”

In the heart of the Sonoma Valley, the estate offers wine lovers a lovely getaway to soak in the Sonoma wine lifestyle.

With incredible views, lush gardens and the elegant 1920s chateau, guests are invited to experience the award-winning wine at their leisure.

Chateau St. Jean

46 miles from Benicia 8555 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood Chateaustjean.com

Stephanie Jacobs

Cakebread Cellars Winemaker Photo by A. Ruben Stephanie first became interested in wine while participating in an exchange program in France. She decided to turn her passion into a profession while studying at U.C. Davis. Stephanie joined Cakebread Cellars in 2004 and was promoted to Assistant Winemaker in 2008. “… I still enjoy sipping a beer or even home brewing. But wine is a constantchanging subject, since Mother Nature gives us so much growing variability from vintage to vintage. Being a winemaker tests your creativity and ability to adapt along the way, which I find intellectually rewarding, not to mention incredibly fun!”

Since its founding in 1973 by Jack and Dolores Cakebread, Cakebread Cellars has been famous for its warm, gracious hospitality and unmatched wines. “With an enduring commitment to quality, the belief that life's occasions are elevated by good people, good food, and good wine flows through everything we do.”

We agree!

Cakebread Cellars

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Scene People

8

Questions for Benicia Creative Writer Sheri Hoffmann Benicia writer Sheri Hoffman with husband James Hoffmann, photo by Fred Hoffmann

Adriene Rockwell As a creative non-fiction writer, Sheri Hoffmann finds joy in the mundane, gems in the ridiculous, and connection through vulnerability. While most of us run from these foibles, Sheri scoops them up.

“Most of my stuff falls in the category of hot-mess-human,” she smiles. Through humorous self-reflection, Sheri’s relatable prose lightens us up—as a kind of tonic for the human spirit that has earned her many fans.

Recently, Sheri’s essay The Art of Departure, about the process of letting go while her son left home for college, was published in the anthology She’s Got This (available at Bookshop Benicia).

She’s currently working on a book about protecting our time and energy to make space for our true gifts. Sheri will offer a workshop on this topic with Benicia Literary Arts in June, and in the meantime here’s more about her message and her journey as a writer: BM: When did you first begin to see yourself as a writer?

SH: In 2010 while writing for Benicia Patch, covering the BHS band program that my son was in, and shining a light on all the hard work that goes into a music program. I covered the behind-thescenes moments, things no one really sees. The life of a high school musician is an inspiring world.

BM: What kind of a writer are you?

SH: My genre is “creative nonfiction” which covers personal narratives, mentoring, humorous essays—memoirtype pieces.

BM: How would you describe your style?

12 • Benicia Magazine

SH: Irreverent, edgy, satire, deeply observational, push-the-envelope, rethinking commonly held beliefs, compassionate, self-deprecating, darkly humorous. When I write about my own ridiculous missteps, others can let their guard down and we are able to have an authentic connection. My entire purpose is to write about me, so that you can see you.

BM: What is your writing routine like?

SH: I write almost every waking hour. I often pull over on the side of the road to download thoughts. I dictate into my iPhone, constantly adding content. My muses are people and situations. I can generate entire chapters just watching people stand in line at a bank, or simply watching a spider. I see lessons and metaphors in everything.

BM: What inspires you?

SH: Young people, women, the ability to confess mistakes, friendship, acts of kindness, moments of despair, setbacks, rising from failure, civil political discussions, cringy, uncomfortable moments.

BM: What are your greatest challenges as a writer?

SH: Realizing that I don’t have 150 years to live. I have so many projects yet to write. Sometimes this makes me panic.

BM: What words of wisdom would you like to share with other aspiring writers?

SH: First, capture your thoughts in a readily accessible reservoir (journal, phone, a basket to dump your paper scraps, etc.) Keep collecting. These will tell you what story is there. Second, every morning the world needs new content, so if your work was rejected

yesterday, submit it somewhere else today. Thirdly, run your ideas or phrases by a trusted person, and know they will offer a pivotal perspective, a view you never saw before. And lastly, protect your writing time like an eagle fiercely protects its nest.

BM: What are your current writing projects?

SH: I have 150,000-plus words on the topic of boundaries, called From Constant Yes to Contented Yes. The topic came up after 20 years of volunteerism, where I saw people lifted by it or destroyed by it. I had to come up with a system so I could survive the upcoming decades of being asked to give, serve, volunteer.

I have since presented my topic at many workshops. There is a thirst for boundaries. I teach people how to rein in their “constant yes” so they have more time to say yes to their true purpose, skills and talent. By helping people with boundaries, it allows them time to have authentic connections with people and causes that are close to them.

Sheri’s writings and upcoming events Benicia Literary Arts Workshop: “Time to Honor Writing” June 1, 2019 (at 390 Military East) Benicialiteraryarts.org She’s Got This: Essays on Standing Strong and Moving On Book on sale at Bookshop Benicia

Scene Veterans

Celebrating Memorial Day At Historic Military Cemetery

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Caring, Compassionate Service Tomoka Red St. Johns As it has for many years, Benicia will celebrate Memorial Day with a ceremony at the oldest United States military cemetery on the West Coast, its own Benicia Military Cemetery in the Arsenal.

“The ceremony honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our way of life, as well as all veterans and those currently serving our nation,” said Wallace Stephens, spokesperson for the Benicia Historical Society.

The Historical Society, which was established in 1973, organizes and sponsors the event each year at the Benicia Military Cemetery, which has graves that date to the 1840s.

“Many of the graves are marked Unknown, as the names have been lost over time,” Stephens said.

He said the Historical Society is planning for a military flyover from Travis Air Force Base and the United States Coast Guard Air Station in San Francisco. Benicia Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3928 and Benicia American Legion Post 101 will provide the color guard. Diablo Regional Concert Band will play music and the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery Volunteer Honor Guard will perform a rifle salute.

“A wreath-laying ceremony will honor those interred at the cemetery,” Stephens said. Col. Gregory Ford, who became the Garrison Commander of the Presidio of Monterey in 2018, will be the guest speaker.

The Memorial Day ceremony will begin at 10am Monday, May 27. To get to the cemetery, take Military East to Hospital Road, then go through the gate to the parking area. A SolTrans shuttle will be available to the cemetery from City Park. Stephens said motorists should plan to arrive early if they want to park nearby.

Admission is free, and light refreshments will be served after the ceremony. The Benicia Historical Society’s website is beniciahistoricalsociety.org, and the organization has a Facebook page.

Photo: Previous Memorial Day Celebration at Benicia Military Cemetery, courtesy Benicia Historical Society

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Scene Culture

Final Weeks for BOTTG’s Spring Production Get tickets now for the Benicia Old Town Theater Group’s Spring production, SWEAT, a Pulitzer Prize winning play

by Lynn Nottage; the show is in its final weeks, ending May 11. SWEAT tells the story of a group of friends who have spent their lives sharing drinks, secrets, and laughs while working together on the factory floor. But when layoffs and picket lines begin to chip away at their trust, the friends find themselves pitted against each other in a heart-wrenching fight to stay afloat. Co-directed by Clinton Vidal and Dan Clark.

General admission adults $22. Seniors 62+ and students with valid ID $20.

Benicia Old Town Theatre Group Cast, Joe Messina Photography

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Vallejo Choral Society Welcomes

New Artistic Director

Derek Tam Rebecca Gulick After closing the year with two soldout Benicia and Vallejo performances of Handel’s Messiah, the enduring Vallejo Choral Society launched the new year with the appointment of a distinguished new Artistic Director, Derek Tam. Renowned for his work with choral and orchestral ensembles, Tam is also a preeminent, historical keyboardist who performs regularly throughout the Bay Area. He is a founding member, harpsichordist, and occasional conductor for MUSA, a San Francisco-based 14 • Benicia Magazine

Baroque chamber ensemble, and he serves as the Director of Music at First Church Berkeley, producing a critically lauded performance series there. Tam is also Executive Director of the San Francisco Early Music Society.

"I'm so excited to join VCS for my first set of concerts with this storied ensemble," he said. "Right from the first rehearsal, I've been impressed and humbled by the chorus's dedication to music and to each other. It's an honor to build upon VCS's reputation as a focal point for community music-making in Solano County."

Laura Pyles, president of the performing arts non-profit, said, "Vallejo Choral Society is absolutely thrilled to have Derek Tam take up the baton as our Artistic Director. We caught a glimpse of Derek's nimble directing style when we auditioned him last fall, and now we have the pleasure of weekly rehearsals under Derek's deft direction. His enthusiasm is

infectious. We are excited to follow his lead for our June performances and for many seasons to come."

Vallejo Choral Society—with half of its members hailing from Benicia—describes itself as unique among area choruses, being a non-auditioned symphonic choir committed to producing concerts of exceptional caliber and giving its singers opportunities to perform choral masterpieces alongside top-shelf Bay Area instrumentalists.

VCS invites the community to meet Derek Tam at its June concerts, A Slavonic Summer, featuring the Dvořák Mass in D Major with chamber orchestra, scheduled for Saturday, June 1, 7 pm, at Community Congregational Church in Benicia, and Sunday, June 2, 3 pm, at First Presbyterian in Vallejo.

For more information, visit vallejochoral.org.

Photo Courtesy Vallejo Choral Society

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Scene Culture

Spring Neptune’s Daughter Unveiled

Benicia’s Waterfront is about to receive a much-anticipated upgrade—artist Lisa Reinerston’s life-size bronze sculpture, Neptune’s Daughter, will be unveiled May 11 at 11am. This new public art installation has been a year in the making, with financial backing

by Benicia residents David and Annette Batchelor, who paid for the sculpture’s casting, preparation and installation. The sevenfoot statue will find its home behind the Tannery Building along the shoreline walkway.

Reinerston, who donated the sculpture to the city, says, “The theme of the sculpture has to do with stewardship of the natural habitat of our bays and oceans.” In addition to adding to the city’s impressive collection of public art, Lisa hopes that Neptune’s Daughter will help folks pay attention to the care and well being of our waterways. She says, “As a sentinel, and reminder of the diligence needed to keep our waters healthy for our futures, the sculpture could play a positive role in our town.” Library Director David Dodd says the unveiling will be a touching event with city dignitaries in attendance. David Dodd: 707.746.4358

Bras for a Cause While visitors and patrons are enjoying Benicia Old Town Theatre Group’s spring production SWEAT, the group is teaming up with the Tim and Jeannie Hamann Foundation, with fundraiser Bras for a Cause. Volunteers have transformed bras into lavish creations that are on display at the theatre lobby through production season. For each $5.00 Donation to the Foundation, patrons may vote for the Best Bra for a Cause. The embellished bras will be silently auctioned. All proceeds from the donations will go to The Tim & Jeannie Hamann Foundation, a local 501c3 organization in Benicia, which promotes cancer research and provides support to cancer patients and survivors.

Photo right: Strength and Power, Created by Cindy Smith

16 • Benicia Magazine

Milinda Perry Gallery Features Erika Hoffe “Art advances communication by introducing expressions that don’t find their way into words,” says artist Erika Hoffe on her website, erikahoffepaintings.com.

“Through painting I express non-verbal conceptions.”

Hoffe’s acrylic paintings will be on view at the Milinda Perry Gallery this month, with an artist reception Thursday, May 16, 5-7pm. She has received the Marin Museum of Contemporary Art award, and for the past six years, has also garnered awards at the Marin County Fair, including a Best in Show, the California State Fair and Napa County Fair. Her work has also been featured at the Rellik Tavern.

Left: Remembered Embrace by Erika Hoffe Milinda Perry Gallery 117 E F St, Benicia 707.361.5097 Findyourfabulous.com

Carmina Burana Performance at Benicia Clock Tower

The Golden Gate Symphony Orchestra & Chorus is presenting Carl Orff’s hugely popular cantata, Carmina Burana, in its entirety, for a special afternoon at the historic Benicia Clock Tower on Mother’s Day, May 12, 4pm.

GGSO&C was founded by conductor and educator Urs Leonhardt Steiner and is entering its third decade of presenting quality performances and music education in the Bay Area. Maestro Steiner wanted to make classical music accessible to all and to provide education as well as professional performances at a community level. He does this by producing live musical programs through an ensemble orchestra and choral group and presenting them throughout the Bay Area.

The Benicia chapter of Golden Gate Symphony Orchestra and Chorus will be joined by the rest of the company on Mother’s Day, May 12, at the Clock Tower at 4pm to perform Carmina Burana. Tickets can be purchased at the following locations: Mozart, Einstein & Me, Benicia Main Street, Bookshop Benicia. Purchase tickets on line at Cityboxoffice.com.

BeniciaMagazine.com • 17

Scene Out and About

Downtown

Martinez

Experiencing a Renaissance

Tomoka Red St. Johns Lisa Duncan photography Benicia’s neighbor across the Carquinez Strait, Martinez is experiencing a renaissance. Harriett Burt said she noticed her town improving about three years ago. She credits Candice Gliatto, owner of Citrus Salon, which she moved from “a tiny hole in the wall” to its present home at 620 Main St. Along the way, Gliatto has become involved in downtown events, especially those involving makeup. She’s painted faces for Zombie Beer Crawls and the Day of the Dead Festival of Altars. She’s shaved heads for the St. Baldric events that raise money to fight childhood cancer. She’s been active in organizing tours of available storefronts in the downtown area, too, Burt said.

Martinez benefits from a trend away from big shopping centers and toward boutique stores, away from big, highmaintenance suburban yards and toward charming or historic downtown homes, she said.

Vice Mayor Noralea Gipner said Martinez became an appealing place to open or expand a business after the city mandated seismic retrofitting. The timing appeared unfortunate 18 • Benicia Magazine

at first, coinciding with the Great Recession. Some properties were demolished rather than reinforced. But business owners who learned hard lessons from the damage caused by the 2014 Napa earthquake noticed that Martinez’s downtown structures were already strengthened, she said.

“The result has been spectacular,” Gipner said. “We now have Five Sons, the oldest brewery in town, and Del Cielo,” which, along with the precedent-setting Creek Monkey Tap House, establish Martinez as a craft beer destination. The innovative Greek restaurant, Troy, has joined about half a dozen new eateries in the downtown,” she said. La Tapatia is a favorite spot for many, offering fresh, traditional Guadalajara and Jalisco cuisine, with patio seating. Two coffee houses with distinct, hip vibes also bring in the crowds: States Coffee and Barrelista, with a cozy coffee area in front and full bar at the side entrance.

“I think it’s lovely to say that there’s a renaissance occurring in downtown Martinez,” said Julie Johnston, Martinez Chamber of Commerce executive director. She credits collaboration and cross-promotion along with the Chamber of Commerce, Martinez city staff and Main Street Martinez. Martinez’s downtown “is a combination of history, restaurants, clothing

... “is a combination of history, restaurants, clothing and jewelry, and craft breweries”

and jewelry, and craft breweries,” she said. Plus, it’s a short walk from Waterfront Park and the Martinez Marina.

Historically, luring visitors from south of Highway 4 has been a challenge. That’s changing, said John Stevens, the former Chamber chief executive officer. “I go downtown to eat all the time.” He enjoys eating at Troy, the Asian-fusion restaurant, Lemongrass, and on cold days, the hot soups at Royal Thai.

There are established businesses such as Lavender Moon, a charmingly curated store where visitors will discover “a French country haven where Sante Fe and Farmhouse Chic meets Urban.” Two other unique spots are the Corner Shop and Barbered Leather, with custom leather goods and home décor, and Lights of Diablo, in a vintage brick building with lots of Edison lights shining softly from within its packed array of beautiful lighting. Then there are new businesses, such as GALA and Function and Fringe.

In 2013, animation director Ken Mitchroney was worried about his hometown and its empty storefronts. “It didn’t look good,” he said. That changed after the coffee houses and

breweries opened. “They’re packed,” he added. Merchants and restaurateurs collaborate in ways he hadn’t seen. “That’s a big plus,” he said. “Martinez is a cool little bayside town with lot of history.”

Barrelista, Facebook.com/barrelista States Coffee & Mercantile, Statescoffee.com La Tapatia, Latapatia.net Lavender Moon, Lavendermooninteriors.com Five Sons Brewing, Fivesunsbrewing.com Del Cielo Brewing, Delcielobrewing.com Creek Monkey Tap House, Creekmonkey.com Troy, Troygreekmartinez.com/Martinez/menu.com The Corner Shop and Barbered Leather, Cornershopmtz.com Lights of Diablo, Lightsofdiablo.com Photos, p. 18, clockwise from left: Barrelista, (Facebook); Del Ceilo Brewing entry and taco tray with beer (Facebook); Troy entrance, La Tapatia dining room and page 19: The Corner Shop and Barbered Leather, Lisa Duncan Photography BeniciaMagazine.com • 19

Delicious Vegan Baked Goods at Fox and Fawn Jeanne Steinmann Photo courtesy Fox and Fawn Bakehouse Since 2011, Tara Allen, owner of Fox and Fawn Bakehouse, has infused her custom cakes and cupcakes with yummy ingredients that include chocolate and sugar, a winning start for any dessert.

But Tara adds something different—her vegan offerings are also infused with love, and her passion for the craft.

When her 11-year old daughter Gemma started preschool, Tara and husband Gian Allen left Berkeley for Benicia, where she grew up. The stars aligned (the deciding factor partly hinged on the Walnut Creek farmers market rejecting her application, they didn’t see the value in vegan), but the Benicia Farmers Market welcomed her. Eight years and many thousands of cupcakes later, Tara landed the brick and mortar space in which to bake and serve her cupcakes, specialty cakes and ready-to-eat cookie dough in a jar, projected to open in this month.

“I wanted it to be a place that we could bake and serve on site. We were very naïve when we took this project on; we had to start from the ground up to make it what we need it to be,” she said. “Phil and Celeste Joy (building owners) have been incredibly supportive of me—painting 20 • Benicia Magazine

and replacing windows and more.”

Construction-savvy friends, along with Gian and Gemma, were also instrumental in transforming the space, as well as her parents, Wayne and Judy Bottini, who own Benicia Floor Company.

In her first week at the Benicia farmers market back in 2011, Tara sold all 100 cupcakes, made from her home kitchen in a single oven. The following week, she sold 200. Soon, she was baking 500 cupcakes each week. All of her cupcakes are fresh-baked the day of the market and always sell out. With a double oven, she now bakes an average of 1200 cupcakes each week.

As a child, Tara learned about baking from Judy. “My mom did a lot of baking but she loved baking pies. She always included me—I never felt like I was in her way or doing something wrong. It was a very positive experience.” From the first farmers market, Judy has helped by frosting each cupcake.

A vegetarian in high school, Tara eventually adopted a vegan diet that she has adhered to for 17 years. “I did it for the health benefits and planet benefits.

I was able to give up everything else pretty easily but still craved sweet, baked goods.” Having difficulty sourcing

quality vegan products, Tara created her own, using the highest quality ingredients; and organic and local when possible. They are available online at foxandfawnbakehouse.com, and soon at her new downtown bakery near the waterfront. After Tara graduated SF State, she had a string of creative jobs, but her priority since Gemma was born “… was, and still is, being an at home mom. When Gemma started preschool, I started baking, I needed my own thing.” When she isn’t baking, Tara loves paddleboarding and hiking with family, “… but traveling is number one,” she said.

“This year, we went to Australia.”

Tara is frequently asked if she sells at other farmers markets, to which the answer is no. “Benicia has my heart, I’m proud to be part of this community. It’s such a great place. There’s a sea change coming to downtown, it’s a good time to be here.”

Fox and Fawn Bakehouse

(opening this month) 305 First Street, Benicia Foxandfawnbakehouse.com Facebook – Fox and Fawn

12th Annual Benicia Education Foundation

Run for Education

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and

Waterfalls wildflowers Mary Hand

24 • Benicia Magazine

Yes, it was a long and rainy winter, but there’s a silver lining. The waterfalls are full and flowing and wildflowers are in bloom everywhere.

The best places to see wildflowers and waterfalls in the East Bay Regional Park District include Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, east of Mount Diablo; Black Diamond Mines in Antioch; Briones Regional Park in Central Contra Costa; and Sunol Regional Wilderness. The North Bay destinations include Sonoma Valley Regional Park and Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.

We have selected a handful of lovely locations to start you off, but there are many more locations around the Bay Area.

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park and Canyon-Pony Gate Loop is about 50 miles from Benicia and it’s well worth the ride. It’s home to some of the finest hiking and waterfalls you’ll find in the North Bay. The views from the top of Bald Mountain are magnificent and include San Francisco Bay, Mount Diablo, Mount Tamalpais, the Coastal Range and the Pacific. Sonoma Creek’s seasonal waterfall is currently on full display, and the Canyon Pony Gate Loop is one of the easiest treks that will take you to it. After just 15 minutes of light hiking, you’ll be lounging in a shaded canyon next to the roaring waterworks, cooling your feet in the crystal stream while you watch the waterfall rush through piles of rocks and boulders.

Sugarloaf Ridge boasts an amazing display of wildflowers with hillside grasslands full of lupines, paintbrush and iris, wet areas with seep-spring monkey flower, creeks with Western azalea, chaparral areas with ceanothus and chamise, hardwood forests with delicate chocolate lilies and redwood forests with starflower. Sugarloaf Ridge State Park wildflower walks are $10 and an entry fee or park pass is required for vehicles.

These walks are one to three miles long.

The Waterfall Trail on Mt. Diablo may seem like an oxymoron, given the mountain’s reputation for extreme dry heat. It seems almost impossible that there could be even a single waterfall on

Mt. Diablo, especially to those of us who have hiked it on a blistering summer day. But, there is an entire trail dedicated to numerous falls.

The Falls Trail is a seven mile loop trail located amongst the many paths on Mount Diablo’s north slope. The view is fantastic and there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy scenery. Clamber up Mount Diablo’s fire roads—as scenic as they are steep—to be rewarded with panoramic views of the Bay Area. Along the way, the oak- and pinelined trail is fringed with a myriad of wildflowers like paintbrush, sticky monkey flower, poppies and purple Chinese houses. If you’re lucky, you’ll come across the striking lemon-yellow bulbs of Mount Diablo fairy lanterns, a rare lily that only blooms here. Vehicle Entrance Fee is $10.00.

Little Yosemite, in Sunol Regional Wilderness, is stunning and fairly easy to get to. The gently sloped trail takes you to Little Yosemite, where you’ll be greeted by a fairytale sight—a series of waterfalls cascading down a rocky incline. Climb the boulders that form the waterfalls, or take in the view from the picnic area. Bring along the pup—the park is dog friendly.

Sunol Regional Wilderness is also home to many species of wildflowers . There are several trails that lead up through the hills, with great vistas and wonderful oak trees. Since it is so close to developed areas there are many nonnative plants, but they are nestled among a wealth of native species. Sunol offers an amazing palette of natural color including fiddlenecks and several varieties of lupine with tall mustard standing watch, wild hyacinth or tidy tips waving in the breeze, and of course the striking color of the ubiquitous California poppy punctuating the surrounding greenery. Parking is $5 plus $2 per dog.

Photos: Sugarloaf Falls, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park; wildflowers blooming in spring

BeniciaMagazine.com • 25

Calendar

May 2019 Events

Certified Farmers' Market

5/2, 9, 16, 23; 4-8pm First & B Streets, Benicia The Benicia Certified Farmers’ Market 27th season is open Thursdays through October, offering farm fresh produce and fresh cut flowers along with arts and crafts vendors, specialty foods, baked goods, and numerous gourmet food vendors.

Children can enjoy activities like face painting and the inflatable bounce house on the First Street Green.

Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

Benicia High School Presents Mamma Mia

5/3&4, 7pm 5/4 Closing Night Gala Benicia High School Performing Arts Center 1101 Military West, Benicia Through the hit music of ABBA, award-winning BHS Theatre tells the hilarious and touching story of a young woman’s search for her birth father as her wedding day approaches. The tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise as her quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island.

Past, present & future collide as destiny unfolds on the eve of her wedding.

Bit.ly/bhsmammamia

BOTTG Presents Sweat

5/3&4, 10&11, 8pm; 5/5, 2pm Historic B.D.E.S. Hall 140 West J Street, Benicia Final weeks for SWEAT which tells the story of a group of friends who have spent their lives sharing drinks, secrets, and laughs while working together on the factory floor. When layoffs and picket lines chip away at their trust, the friends find themselves pitted against each other. The Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Lynn Nottage includes adult themes/language; not suitable for under age 16.

707.747.5858

26 • Benicia Magazine

Public Art Installation Unveiling

Mamma Mia rehearsal at Benicia High School, photo by Ok Kyong

Benicia Open Studios

5/4 & 5, 11am-5pm Arts Benicia & Artist Studios around town Benicia Open Studios is Arts Benicia’s most highly attended annual event with thousands of visitors. Known for its vibrant artist community, each year scores of artists open the doors of their studio spaces throughout the Historic Arsenal District and around town, providing a unique glimpse into their creative world. Ride a Soltrans Shuttle free between the arsenal & downtown.

Explore artists studios, see glass blowing, purchase original art.

Artsbenicia.org 707.747.0131

Spring Into Giving

5/4-5/18 Downtown Benicia Donate an item to Benicia Main Street for the Benicia Family Resource Center and receive a 10%-15% off discount card valid with participating downtown merchants. Some restrictions may apply.

Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

Spring Native Plant Sale

5/4, 9am-2pm Heritage Presbyterian Church 1400 East Second Street, Benicia The California Native Plant Society's Willis Linn Jepson Chapter invites you to its semi-annual native plant sale.

Shrubs, perennials, vines and groundcovers grown at the Chapter's nursery in Vallejo will be available for sale. Proceeds

support native plant conservation activities in Solano County.

Jepson.cnps.org

Benicia Run For Education

5/5, 8am First Street Green, Benicia This is a family-friendly event for first-time runners to expert athletes. Proceeds benefit Benicia Education Foundation, a volunteer-run, communitybased non-profit that helps fund programs & services in the Benicia Unified School District. The 5K & 10K courses are certified by USATF and professionally chip timed.

All events highlight Benicia’s rich history. Kids’ Fun-Run, 12 & under, runs from Marina Green to the Pier and back.

Beniciarunforeducation.org

Bike to School Day 5/8 Bike to Work Day 5/9 Keith Little’s Golden Sierra Trio in Concert

5/10, 8-10pm Benicia Historical Museum 2060 Camel Road, Benicia The Golden Sierra Trio is part of the LittleBand, a collaborative ensemble performing a diverse range of music. Rooted in bluegrass, gospel & blues, the combination of the talented artists produces a sound that is authentic and unique. Doors open 7pm. No-host bar. Tickets $25 at BrownPaperTickets.com.

Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

5/11, 11am Behind Bella Sienna Restaurant along waterfront 129-131 First Street, Benicia Lisa Reinertson’s 7-foot tall bronze statue, Neptune’s Daughter, will be unveiled with a speech from the artist and city dignitaries in attendance. For more info, contact the Benicia Arts & Culture Commission.

707.746.4358

Mother’s Day 5/12 Annual Maker Faire

5/17-19 San Mateo County Event Center 1346 Saratoga Drive, San Mateo Maker Faire is a global network of events celebrating innovation, creativity and curiosity. See exhibits about science, creativity, innovation, and art, and meet the people of all ages who made them.

Makerfaire.com/bay-area

Spring on the Straits Quilt Show

5/18, 10am-5pm; 10/19, 10am-4pm Historic Clock Tower 1189 Washington Street, Benicia Carquinez Strait Stitchers members display their works of fabric art from traditional quilts to variations of classic quilts to new and innovative designs.

About 150 quilted items will be displayed, including wall and baby quilts, larger quilts and pieces of wearable art. Vendors on hand with light refreshments available for a nominal fee, as well as door prizes, treasure hunt for kids and a country store to purchase guild members offerings. The Opportunity Quilt, made this year by members, will also be on display.

Cssquilter.org

Live Music

May Music

Empress Theatre 707.552.2400

330 Virginia St, Vallejo EmpressTheatre.org May 01, 7:30pm

May 02, 7:30pm

May 03, 8pm

May 04, 8pm

May 09, 7:30pm

May 10, 8pm

May 18, 8pm

May 31, 8pm

The Funky Spuds $10 Online/$10 Phone & Box Office Megan and the Heartbeats $15 Online/ $20 Phone & Box Office Cream of Clapton w/ Kevin Russell, Matty Pinder & Steve Brown $20 Online/ $25 Phone & Box Office Tortilla Soup - Cinco De Mayo Celebration $20 Online/$25 Phone & Box Office The Weavers, Wasn’t That a Time Film and Sing-A-Long Free Event/ Phone ngwie Malmsteen w/ Paralandra & Sunlord $35 - $65 Online/Phone & Box Office Robben Ford $35 - $65 Online/Phone & Box Office Puscie Jones Review $25 Online/$30 Phone & Box Office

Uptown Theatre Napa 707.259.0123

1350 Third Street, Napa UptownTheatreNapa.com

May 11, 8pm Who’s Bad

$20 - $35, Ticketmaster or Box Office

May 12, 8pm Art Garfunkel $60 - $100, Ticketmaster or Box Office

Lucca Beer Garden 707.745.3749

439 First Street, Benicia Luccabar.com No Cover Charge May 02, 6:30pm - 9pm

May 03, 6:30pm - 9pm May 04, 1pm - 3:30pm

May 05, 3pm - 6pm

May 09, 6:30pm - 9pm May 10, 6:30pm - 9pm

May 11, 1pm - 3:30pm

May 12, 6:30pm - 9pm May 16, 6:30pm - 9pm May 17, 6:30pm - 9pm May 18, 1pm - 3:30pm

May 19, 3pm - 6pm May 23, 6:30pm - 9pm May 24, 6:30pm - 9pm

May 25, 1pm - 3:30pm

May 26, 3pm - 6pm May 30, 6:30pm - 9pm

May 31, 3pm - 6pm

The FOXCATCHERS w/Jeff Tamelier & Christopher Cole The New Frantics Dave Andre 6:30pm - 9pm Kayo Andy Brunt opens for Strange Culprits Morgan Sheets & Sanders Jeff Campitelli & Friends Chris Estes 6:30pm - 9pm Wall of Blues FeatPrints Andre Thierry New Copacetics Jeffry James Trio 6:30pm - 9pm Jenny Kerr Band Paper Kayak Groovelayers Don Bassey, Erik Schramm, Sean Allen & Jeff Campitelli Lonesome Eddie & The Saddle Sores 6:30pm - 9pm Fog City Swampers Greg Rahn Leah Tysse Band BlackRock Project

Lucca Beer Garden mural Lisa Duncan Photography

BeniciaMagazine.com • 27

Art

Artist's Works Showcased in Dual Exhibition

Sunrise Moonset, acrylic painting, by Judy Neal

Staff writer From June 6 through July 14, Benicia’s Arata Art Gallery will be bringing together two award-winning Solano County artists: painter Judy Neal and photographer Philip Venable, for a dual exhibition.

The public is invited to a reception for Neal and Venable at Arata Art Gallery, Saturday, June 8, 2-7pm.

Although the artists had never met, gallery owner Geraldine Arata brought the pair together to showcase an underlying theme in their art: that of the land. Californian Judy Neal’s background is in advertising art and graphic design. “Painting is my conversation, my dialog,” she says of her works in acrylics. “Every piece I create is my visual voice. I have always had a love of the land whether it is the line and rhythm of the rolling hills or the freshly harvested produce from our garden.” Judy has had numerous art shows and exhibits in galleries, wineries, and government buildings throughout the region.

A passion for photography was instilled in Philip as a child when he was given a Kodak Brownie, and in college he planned a career as a photojournalist, until life led him to law enforcement. Philip has since picked up his camera and is making art again. His images have been recognized in local shows and featured in online winery sites. “I am drawn to shapes, lines, and shadows and the outdoors, especially of the different wine growing regions in the area. My preference is Nature/Landscape, although I am experimenting with abstract images, including Perpetual Motion: Chaos Contained, a piece in the show,” he said.

Calling for Justice: Nikki Basch Davis Presents My Voice at Gallery 621

Above left: Don’t Leave Me, right: Welcome to This World Little One by Nikki Basch Davis

Rebecca Gulick Nikki Basch Davis paints stories, and the one that’s been dominating her creative attention—haunting her for months—is the story of human tragedy unfolding at the southern border, where the U.S. is separating immigrant children from their parents and holding them in government detention facilities. It’s a story Nikki knows all too well.

"I share these experiences; they were part of my childhood.”

As the Featured Artist at Gallery 621 for the month of May, Nikki presents a series of paintings and sculptures depicting the immigrant crisis, an exhibit entitled My Voice.

The disturbing news about the immigrant families triggered painful memories for Nikki. She was very young when her family attempted to leave Russia after the Second World War. "We were

28 • Benicia Magazine

captured and put in jail. In Russia, when you were put in jail, you ended up for life in Siberia.” The prospects were grim, but by a stroke of luck, Nikki and her mother managed to board a cattle train to freedom.

Nikki understands the trauma for immigrant children at the border. Hearing the news reports, "You feel kind of helpless. All you can do is what you can do.” Nikki is striving to create awareness through her art. "That’s what I can do. So that’s what this is about,” she explained. "The work in this exhibit is my voice, my speaking out."

In her work, Nikki is not interested in painting a pretty picture. "I show a story that touches me.” She endeavors to create curiosity in the viewer and provoke the question, What’s going on here?

"There is something more than just painting the figure well."

By that same token, she needs to feel challenged and to always be learning. "I painted plein air for so many years, and there was a lot of joy in it, but then I couldn’t do it anymore. You need to keep changing.” So her focus shifted to figurative in sculpture and in painting. She also recently she began exploring monotyping, a form of printmaking with ink. "You just try to find different ways of creating your art just to challenge yourself, to stay excited about something new.”

The creative process is the best kind of therapy for Nikki. "When you create your art, everything else is outside of your reality for that time. It’s this rest from problems and worries. That’s a gift right there. It enriches your spirit and makes it joyous. The white canvas has all the promise in the world." Nikki is one of the gallery’s founding members, in charge of hanging all the exhibits at the gallery. My Voice runs May 9—June 2, with a reception May 18, 4-6pm.

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Urs Leonhardt Steiner and the Golden Gate Symphony Orchestra & Chorus PRESENT

Carmina Burana Sunday, May 12, 4 PM

Bringing together choruses from San Francisco and Benicia for a special afternoon in the historic Benicia Clock Tower.

PLUS World Premiere: Tree of Life, Music by Matthew Arnerich with poetry by Diane Frank Soloists: Chelsea Hollow, Soprano | William Wiggins, Tenor | Bradley Kynard, Baritone

Tickets: $25 / $28 at the door

Available from City Box Office– www.cityboxoffice.com and in Benicia at: Mozart, Einstein & Me, Benicia Main Street & Bookshop Benicia

BeniciaMagazine.com • 29

Trends

Mother and Son's VIEW Christina Strawbridge Photo courtesy Wikimedia ABC Studios New York City We lined up on the side of the ABC Studios complex near Central Park and Columbus Circle on the Upper West Side.

Even by 8:30am and a temperature of 38 degrees, a long line of women and a few men extended along West 66th Street.

My son, Christopher, had tickets for the long-running talk show, The View, which features a revolving group of women sitting around a table discussing the day's hot topics, and interviewing a personality with a point of view.

Barbara Walters conceived the idea for the show that was relevant for its time.

She is quoted as saying, "I've always wanted to do a show with women of different generations, backgrounds, and 30 • Benicia Magazine

views: a working mother, a professional in her 30s, a young woman just starting out and then somebody who's done almost everything and will say almost anything.”

I have watched the show off and on during the 22 years it has been on the air, following the drama with the cast members. The show has gotten ultra political with both conservative and liberal views that reach a fever pitch during their discussions.

The dress code was bright, solid colors, no: solid black (in New York City!), white, busy patterns, logos, hats, shorts or tank tops. Everything was timed to the minute. Bathroom break, 9:15, food availability ends at 10, single file into the studio waiting for seating, 10:30. Live show at 11 ending at noon. If you look hard and put the remote on slow motion, you

can make Christopher and I out during a scan of the audience. The guest that day was Elizabeth Hasselbeck touting her new book, which was our parting gift.

Christopher and I agreed that we would have preferred pretty much anyone but her, but we didn't get to pick.

It was telling to see how the group interacted off camera, with some more interested in their hair and makeup, and notably, Whoopi Goldberg was the exception, making comments and eye contact to her obvious fans. "Have a great day, everyone, and take a little time to enjoy the view."

It is a morning we will remember as a mother and son who enjoy each other's company and our own point of view—that includes sarcasm and giggles.

ESTEY Since 1946

Real Estate Sales & Professional Property Management

707-745-0924

216 First Street, Benicia • esteyrealestate.com

CaBRE # 00674738

Sales Buying Investing Management

Celebrating our 72nd year of Business

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 35 years.

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

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Benicia's KITC H E N A ND B AT H E X P E RTS

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

“We absolutely love our new kitchen. Trevor and Taylor were so helpful throughout the entire process. The showroom is beautiful with so many options for all our needs. We finally have our dream kitchen.”

— Kurt & Lisa Nelson

AFFORDABLE QUALITY Cabinets and Countertops

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Owners Trevor Cotarelo and Taylor Kennedy