Benicia Magazine November 2022 Issue

Editor in

Genevieve

Margaret Bowles

Cooper Mickelson

Genevieve

Bitsy

Genevieve

Linda Hastings

Darrell Mcelvane

Jeannine Mendoza, Ed.D

Cooper Mickelson

Gethsemane Moss, Ed.D

Kevin Nelson

Gene Pedrotti

Jean Purnell

Amy Stellato

Maura Sullivan

Photography Luke

n From the Editor

Amazingly, the holidays are already upon us and I hope everyone is preparing for a great Thanksgiving filled with family or chosen family. You’ll find in this issue our annual holiday Gift Guide full of wonderful gift ideas that you can find right here in Benicia. November is Shop Small month, so before buying from the big box stores, try shopping right here in your backyard. I guarantee you’ll find something unique for just about everyone on your shopping list.

We also have some exciting news here at the magazine. Our publisher, Mary Hand, has been selected as a Woman of Influence in Solano County for her work promoting Benicia and the greater Solano County through Benicia Magazine and beyond. Congratulations to her! It’s also Benicia Magazine’s 18th birthday this month! A fitting birthday for an election year.

Be on the lookout for the next edition of Benicia+, our digital-only travel magazine. If you haven’t already, you can subscribe to receive Benicia+, or any of our other publications, in your inbox as soon as they become available. I’d also like to thank those of you who have become a patron of Benicia Magazine by joining our Patreon (keep an eye out for our Talk of the Town members mentioned in this issue). If you haven’t yet, please consider becoming a patron to help support the magazine. We want to be able to continue providing the quality publications you’ve enjoyed for the past 18 years and your support will go a long way to making that dream a reality. To join us on Patreon, visit Patreon. com/Benicia_Magazine. To subscribe to our digital publications, please visit BeniciaMagazine.com and fill out the pop-up form. We are ever grateful for your readership and for the support from our advertisers and the Benicia community

— Genevieve.

n From the Publisher

November is traditionally a month of giving. From our national celebration of Thanksgiving to supporting our favorite charities and nonprofits. With this in mind, I’d like to draw your attention to several noteworthy fundraising events that are back after the Covid hiatus. The first is SIP with Soroptimist on November 5. The proceeds from this event will go to helping fund their educational scholarships at the high school and college/trade school level, the elementary literacy program, and provide funds for the building of their “House of Hope”. Next is Tim and Jeannie Hamann’s Hand Up Turkey Trot, Giving A Hand Up to patients with their journey Fighting Cancer. This event is on Thanksgiving morning bright and early! Next up is the Benicia Historical Museum’s A Candlelit Evening on December 9th. This is the second annual event for this wonderful organization. With its new executive director, The Benicia Historical Museum is expanding and refining its exhibits, the newest being the acquisition of the Benicia Fire Museum. There are expanded educational programs and other new programs being developed all the time. This requires money and The Candlelit Evening will help with the funding … plus it will be fun!

After you have enjoyed the holiday fundraisers, it’s time to shop! There are beautiful new shops and sparkling favorites, and a great way to get into the shopping spirit is at the Wine Walk on Shop Small Saturday on November 26. I can tell you from personal experience that you will be amazed at the amount of shopping you can do while sipping wine.

Be of good cheer during this Thanksgiving month, be thoughtful and be kind.

All the best, — Mary

Gift

Benicia Gift Guide Giving

Giving A Season for

Roberto’s Fine Jewelry 519 1st St, Benicia 707.747.5262

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

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

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

The Little Art Shop 129 1st St, Benicia 707.771.6667 thelittleartshop.com

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

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

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

Happy Life Pottery 632 1st St, Benicia HappyLifePottery.com

Happy Life Pottery is an Art & Gift Boutique offering more than just pottery! Stocked full of unique items for special gift-giving, you will find wonderful pieces from artists who are local, national, and international.

374 1st St, Benicia 844.264.6456 pinkarrowsboutique.com

On the menu for Thanksgiving? Togetherness. Shop the season’s best and brightest and enjoy 15% off your order with code BeniciaGift2022 during the month of November. (Limited timeexcludes select items-one per customer).

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

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

Christina S

370 1st St. Benicia 707.745.5125 christinasbenicia.com

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

Sweetness & Light

301 1st St, Benicia 707.652.5599 sweetnessandlightflowers.com

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

The Pedicure Sanctuary 300 Military W, Suite 302, Benicia 707.688.3855 thepedicuresanctuary.com

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

Bubbly and Sparkly

the ladies behind Sparkly Ragz and Le Sparkly Chateau

n Amy Stellato of Happy Life Pottery

Photo by Luke George

There is so much to love about Benicia: gorgeous waterfront views, beautiful weather, and a uniqueness made evident by the wonderful small businesses that have made their home here. Benicia is especially fortunate in the number of excellent family-owned businesses it enjoys, as this valuable sector is often highly influential in shaping a city’s identity. Two such businesses, Sparkly Ragz and Le Sparkly Chateau, the conception of Holly Conse (owner) and her daughter, Salina (co-visionary and manager), have recently livened up Benicia’s retail landscape. Consummate shoppers themselves, these entrepreneurs have brought their unique vision to Benicia with the intention of creating a shopping experience filled with excitement, fun and “all things bubbly and sparkly.”

Sparkly Ragz, an Artisan & Luxury Consignment shop on First Street, is a noticeably joyous and bright space. The store sparkles, as the name would imply, and its incredible selection of beautiful candles, jewelry, bath products, and clothing create a sensory shopping experience. This is not the “consignment” store of old—in fact, a big misconception that Holly and Salina encounter is that “consignment” means “thrift” store. Dispelling the idea that they primarily sell “used” items has proved to be one of their biggest challenges, although the word “consignment” simply means that they are selling on another’s behalf. Only about 10% of all of their inventory is actually preowned, and many times these items are exclusive (like high end handbags) or have never been used.

This store has evolved since it first opened in Suisun (2012) as Holly’s side project to her corporate job. She initially began by stocking the store with the excess that she had collected from her love of shopping, as well as items from Salina and her friends’ closets. Eventually, as Holly searched for inventory that would represent the lifestyle brand that she ultimately hoped to create, the store became a significant outlet in which artisans/makers could sell their work. In 2020, when they moved to Benicia, Holly’s vision had fully materialized: Sparkly Ragz was a boutique offering high-end items without the highend price tags and an eclectic mix of new and like-new items. Their inventory today boasts the work of over 70 local artisans and hand-selected apparel from all over the world; and they purchase in small batches so that everything that they offer is totally unique.

The evolution of Sparkly Ragz is made all the more remarkable by the fact that this mother-daughter team opened it in Benicia immediately before the shut-down in 2020 and were still able

to open its sister store, Le Sparkly Chateau, earlier this year. Often visible within one or both of their stores, Holly and Salina’s warm, and yes—sparkly—demeanors never reveal how incredibly hard these entrepreneurs have worked over the last few years. During the pandemic, the Facebook Live shopping events that they had previously held only once a month ramped up to 3-4 times a week. This often involved spending all day getting ready, all night packing and shipping, and then returning the next day to do it all over again. This ingenious pivot, although grueling, not only supported their business growth, but entertained their loyal fan base throughout a difficult time and expanded their online presence all the way to New York, Texas and Arizona.

Le Sparkly Chateau, their newest boutique further up First Street, offers a refreshing mix of (new) items for gift giving, home décor, and entertaining. Stocked with fun seasonal items in addition to their trademark artisan finds, this store enables its patrons to create a festive and beautiful home space and is a perfect destination for the holidays. B

n Maura Sullivan

It's November. If I had to endure Halloween since August, I'm making November a whole month dedicated to Thanksgiving. It's a great excuse to practice making turkey, prime rib and plenty of apple pie.

Trying to save some extra coin for the big, epic dinner coming my way, I'm grabbing what I have left from October for this cocktail, including the kitchen sink. I promise this is good to drink. To be honest, my best creations have been super random.

I call this duo of cocktails, The Apples that Fell Far from the Tree. Little bit of crisp sweetness. There are two ways to serve this. One for a cold night and one for a sunny, brisk Sunday morning. Let's start with the base, which is needed for both options.

APPLE BASE

Purchase your favorite Apple Cider (not sparkling). Trader Joe’s currently carries my favorite juice. Place your desired amount of juice into a soup pot.

Add cinnamon, nutmeg and clove with two slices of lemon or orange. Place on Med/Low heat and bring to a simmer. Once a simmer has started, stir occasionally, bring the heat to low and cover for 30 minutes. Turn off the heat and let cool to room temperature before placing in the refrigerator. Suggested ratios below.

Cider/Juice

or 2

Nutmeg

cloves (not required)

of citrus

Congrats! your base is done and extras can be served to the whole family before we get boozy.

HOT APPLE (BOOZE INCLUDED)

Take apple cider base, pour into your favorite mug. Add Salted Caramel sauce, bourbon, and peanut butter

and top with freshly made whipped cream, if desired.

Ingredients

1 Cup of Apple Base (warm or hot)

1 Tbsp of Torani Simple Syrup, Salted Caramel flavored 1/2 oz of Screwball Peanut Butter Whiskey

1 1/2 oz of Bullet, Kentucky Bourbon

COLD (BOOZE INCLUDED)

Pour base in a cocktail shaker with elderflower liqueur, Gin or Vodka and Ice.

Strain into a stem cocktail glass or in a tin cup. Top with ginger beer and serve.

Ingredients

2 oz of Apple Base (chilled)

1/2 oz of Elderflower St. Germain Liqueur

1 oz of Gin (Empress recommended) or Vodka (Smirnoff Botanical Vodka recommended)

Top off - Fever Tree Ginger beer

Enjoy, and don't air fry your turkey.

BENICIA NEWS AND VIEWS

Big Creek Lumber

n Gene Pedrotti

Ten years ago, Benicia lost a valued business when Dolan's Lumber closed shop; this made building a fence or deck much more difficult for weekend warriors and contractors as the closest lumber yards were big box stores not necessarily known for quality. So, it is my pleasure to share with you some good news: A lumber company with a redwood sawmill and its headquarters in Santa Cruz County has moved into the area bringing with it not only extensive experience, it stocks some of the best redwood available to the North Bay! The company is Big Creek Lumber and they just acquired O’Connor Lumber & Ace Hardware in Vallejo!

The community can credit Joe Pierre who owned and ran O’Connors for decades. A former Benicia resident, Joe sold his family’s lumber yard so that he could take the plunge into retirement. However, wanting to preserve tradition and staffing,

Joe was careful in selecting a buyer with a solid reputation. And one that was family-owned. Big Creek Lumber fit the bill!

Founded in 1946, Big Creek got its start when brothers Bud and Lud McCrary, along with father Frank, exited the military at Mare Island shipyard. Using a salvaged motor from an amphibious landing craft to power it, they started a small sawmill near their family property in northern Santa Cruz County. The family settled along the banks of Big Creek in the area of Swanton where their father, Frank McCrary, Sr. had made a living splitting redwood shingles, cutting tan bark and constructing cabins. Familiar with lumbering, the boys rigged a small home-made mill, which they affectionately called “The Termite.” It was 1946, and so began the official start of Big Creek Lumber.

Today, the company processes approximately 100,000 board feet of lumber each day, employing 200 employees at six retail yards — Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Paso Robles, Atwater and Half Moon Bay, and now Vallejo. Much of their product comes from timberland on companyowned and private lands in Santa Cruz, Santa Clara and San Mateo counties, where in addition to cutting & milling, the company offers management of privately-owned forest land. Adopting sustainable business practices, it assists landowners in selective harvesting of timber while providing forest management services to reduce fire hazard, improve site restoration, and increase timber growth.

What does this mean for the deck and fence builders in Benicia? Quality product! As Kevin Dussault, Retail Division Manager, shared with me, “We mill our redwood from land we own or manage and we are rigorous with our grading. We have some of the best redwood in northern California!” In addition, the company stocks a full line of lumber, from foundation to finishing, including an extensive selection of plywood, Douglas fir, moldings, and roofing material. Not only can do-it-yourselfers hand-select great redwood for a fence or deck, contractors and builders can order lumber for large projects like home building and general construction.

The changes that Big Creek Lumber brings to its new yard are already apparent — full racks and a lot of product! They will continue their affiliation with Ace Hardware and have expanded the hardware section. Next year, they anticipate adding custom doors and windows!

It is important to recognize Joe Pierre and give him a hearty retirement send off for his great work in the community. Thank you, Joe! And we want to welcome Big Creek Lumber — still family owned and operated! Big Creek Lumber is the kind of small business that helped build America!

“Adopting sustainable business practices, it assists landowners in selective harvesting of timber while providing forest management services to reduce fire hazard, improve site restoration, and increase timber growth."

WINTER WARM UP

got

does too

Different

n Jeannine Mendoza, Ed.D

Thanksgiving celebrations have a rich, conflicting, and confusing history that include two different historical sites. The first event, the well-known and beloved Plymouth Colony harvest celebration, took place in the fall of 1621 in Massachusetts, after more than half of the original English settlers had perished. The second event is the less famous and decidedly more violent 1565 feast held by General Pedro Menendez de Aviles following a battle that left scores of French Huguenot soldiers dead on Matanzas Beach and the surrounding St. Augustine, Florida, area. Both of these events took place with Europeans sharing food and festivities with the Native Americans who lived in each respective area.

Over the years, the meaning and menus have changed from what originally was a celebration to give thanks to God for survival, to a four day holiday devoted to football, extravagant

parades, family gatherings, and a calorie-laden menu that threatens everyone’s A1C. Ultimately, the colonization of North America between 1492 and 1700 led to a decimation of indigenous people and their way of life, an appropriation of land, and the introduction of laws intended to impose a new order upon the native people.

Although the European colonists never intended to introduce diseases that took the lives of 90% of the native population, and changed their way of life forever, the effect was the same. And this happened incrementally over time in all areas of the United States. Many descendants of the devastated tribes naturally feel that Thanksgiving is a time of mourning and protest since the holiday honors the arrival of European settlers, an end of an era and the beginning of a period of annihilation and oppression.

Perhaps this year might be an opportunity to consider revisiting what the European settlers and Native Americans might actually have shared. You might be surprised to learn

Photos courtesy of Wahpepah's Kitchen and Ohlone Cafe

that mashed potatoes and turkey with stuffing were not on the menu. The potato was introduced to North America in the 1700s, and not cultivated commercially at first. Instead, attendees at the first Thanksgiving enjoyed game animals like deer and elk. And although fowl was eaten at the 1621 Thanksgiving celebration, ducks and geese were probably eaten rather than turkey. Also, these birds were stuffed with onions, herbs and nuts rather than a toasted bread stuffing that we eat today. Shellfish, eels and other seafood also graced the first Thanksgiving table. Likewise, in 1565 Florida, the Thanksgiving feast included dried beans, dried fruits, spices, wine and oil from barrels brought from Spain and other places, and local fresh greens, vegetables, fruit and available seafood. The Spanish had chickens that they brought from Spain as well.

There are very few restaurants nationally that focus on indigenous food in the U.S., but here in the Bay Area we are fortunate enough to have TWO such establishments. They are Wahpepah’s Kitchen in Oakland and Café Ohlone, scheduled to open full time on the UC Berkeley campus, outside the Hearst Museum of Anthropology. Café Ohlone originally was located at the back of the University Press Bookstore on campus, but closed during the first year of the pandemic out of a sense of responsibility to keep the community safe. The new version of Café Ohlone is open on a limited basis and offers some lunchtime tastings, brunches, and tea tastings. Local fresh food items like black oak acorn bread, soft boiled quail eggs, venison

Mary Brave Bird, Lakota

stews, offer a unique view of what the Ohlone people enjoy. Imaginative herbal tea blends and desserts that include seed cakes, chia pudding and tan oak acorn flour brownies round out the menu. Reservations can be made at reservations@ makamham.com.

Wahpepah’s Kitchen, located in the Fruitvale section of Oakland, is run by Chef Crystal Wahpepah, a registered member of the Kickapoo tribe of Oklahoma. As a small child, Chef Crystal was fascinated with the preparation and sharing of the distinct dishes that were native to her background. Prior to opening her restaurant, Crystal catered for twelve years, offering natural Native American food that included locally sourced vegetables and fruits. She also uses food products such as meats, fish, spices and corn meal from Native American or indigenous producers. Chef Crystal, a graduate of San Francisco’s La Cocina food incubator program, has three main objectives: first, to acknowledge that we live on stolen land; second, how that acknowledgement connects to the reclamation of Native food ways (food sovereignty); and third, to educate communities and organizations on the health benefits of Native food ways.

The menu at Wahpepah’s Kitchen changes with the seasons, and each season offers its own tasty specialties, such as summer berries or seasonal mushrooms. A surprising variety of meat and fish is available each season. Currently, braised rabbit tamales, sticks of seasoned and cooked buffalo or deer meat , and smoked salmon salad are offered, as well as Chef Crystal’s grandmother’s Kickapoo bison chili. Iced prickly pear limeade and wild mint iced tea provide delicious and natural refreshment.

So perhaps this is the year you try a different approach to celebrating Thanksgiving, treat yourself to an unparalleled dining experience, and eat as our Native American brothers have eaten all along. Who knows? This might start a new family tradition for you! B

“The land is sacred. These words are at the core of your being. The land is our mother, the rivers our blood. Take our land away and we die. That is, the Indian in us dies.”

Cozy LocAles Hygge away from home

In Benicia, we have many cozy spots to visit when the weather starts to turn chilly. You can seek some comfort food at Dianna’s Bakery or snuggle up in a blanket in the back of One House, settle in with a great cup of coffee at States or Rrags, find a warm welcome and cheery spirits at Cullen’s Pub, or cozy up next to the fireplace at the library for a good read.

But what about venturing a little further from home? Here are some places just outside of Benicia you may not visit every day, whose inviting atmosphere will get you into the sweater weather mood.

Something about cold weather makes small and unusual places all the more romantic, so now is the perfect time to visit our across-the-straight neighbors, Crockett and Port Costa.

Wanda’s Restaurant and Bakery

Wanda’s Restaurant and Bakery is the perfect place to start any cozy day. Located in the same building where a beloved Crockett bakery sat over 100 years ago, Wanda’s serves delicious coffee and fresh pastries that will warm your soul and wake your body. Brunch is also available on weekends with plenty of indoor seating. Wandascafe.com.

The Warehouse

Dip into the quiet valley of Port Costa to find The Warehouse Cafe. Known for its eccentric decor and quirky bartenders, The Warehouse is a bar with a unique personality and historic feel. Take a picture with the polar bear, order your favorite cocktail, and find a comfy corner to laugh with your friends and family this holiday season. Warehousecafeportcosta.com.

Bull Valley Roadhouse

When your stomach starts to rumble and you’ve exhausted the antique shops in town, make your way over to Bull Valley Roadhouse. A magical getaway with a gorgeous patio and eclectic dining room, BVR serves craft cocktails and high quality food. The Bull Valley experience will inspire wonder in anyone who enters its doors. Bullvalleyroadhouse.com.

n Caitlin McCulloch, Cooper Mickelson and Genevieve Hand

Bull Valley Roadhouse

The Warehouse

Wanda's

Traveling east, there are some lovely, fall-festive places to visit in the agricultural center of Suisun Valley.

Larry’s Produce

Larry’s Produce brings classic fall activities for the whole family. Try your skills in the corn maze, jump in the corn “bath,” take pictures on the straw pyramid, and grab some fresh seasonal produce to take home. Finish with picking up the perfect porch décor by browsing through the pumpkin patch, which is filled with homegrown pumpkins of all shapes and sizes.

Larrysproduce.com.

Ironwood American Bistro

Located right next to a charming train depot, Ironwood American Bistro is the spot for comforting fall eats — think five-cheese mac and cheese, braised short ribs with notes of orange and ancho chili pepper, fried green tomatoes, and rustic fruit galette tart for dessert. Its outdoor patio with overhead string lights makes for the perfect spot on a mild evening.

Ironwoodamericanbistro.com.

Vezer Family Vineyards

Vezer Family Vineyards has several locations in Fairfield to get your wine fix without having to journey into Napa. Mankas Gardens has a lovely outdoor vibe, but there’s nothing quite like tasting in a historical Blue Victorian house during the fall season. Snag a plush leather armchair by the decorative fireplace and sip on a variety of reds to keep you feeling cozy and warm.

Vezer.com.

And even closer to home, look to Vallejo for some charming locations with quality offerings.

Michael Warring

Michael Warring is located in an unassuming shopping center just inside the entrance to Hiddenbrooke. There is one seating each evening at 6pm for a maximum of 18 guests. With its tiny footprint, dinners here are innately intimate. Guests are presented with a pre-fixe fine dining experience consisting of 7 or 12 courses with an optional wine pairing. Reservations can be made by calling 707.655.4808. Open Thursday-Sunday. Michaelwarring.com.

Moschetti Café

Take a quick trip to France by way of Moschetti Café, located on Marin Street in downtown Vallejo. With delicious fair trade, locally roasted, organic coffee and French-inspired treats and décor, this cafe welcomes you in and invites you to stay a while. Come in from the cold to admire the wall dedicated to local artists while you enjoy your espresso and pastries.

Cafe.moschetti.com. B

Moschetti Café

Michael Warring

Vezer Family Vinyards

Ironwood American Bistro

Larry's Produce

Tradition, Culture, and Gratitude:

Chairwoman Rhonda Pope Flores of the Buena Vista band of Me-Wuk Indians

n Dr. Gethsemane Moss (Ed.D.)

Imagine being taken by force from your home and land and finding the courage and strength to flee from captors. Hundreds of Yokuts and Miwuk families were taken to Mission San Jose between 1811 and 1836. Travesty occurred during this Mission Period, including exposure to disease, loss of life and land. It is known that missions were not intended to preserve native life and tradition. There is still a fight to reclaim the land that was stolen from the Indian tribes. While we can’t bring back our loved ones, the effort of land recovery and upholding tradition and culture is a significant part of preserving education and practice.

For thousands of years, the Me-Wuk Indians of the Buena Vista Rancheria have been an essential part of California’s Native American history. It took over two decades for Chairwoman Rhonda Pope Flores to regain the land in Amador County. Pope Flores is the daughter of Jesse Flying Cloud Pope, greatgranddaughter of Louie and Annie Oliver, and the descendent of Casus Oliver, who escaped mission San Jose with his

mother and joined the Upasani village in what is now Amador County. Under Pope Flores’s leadership, the tribe went from acquiring 67 to 700 acres of land. Pope Flores did not allow the challenges she faced to stop her pursuit of doing what needed to be done. “It took our tribe 20 years to get our projects up and going,” stated Pope Flores. She recalls some of her challenges as a woman leader.

Facing a male-dominated board of supervisors in Amador County, Pope Flores also had to overcome roadblocks at the state level. The pursuit of completing these projects for her tribe was an uphill battle. “You come across a mentality that having a woman leader isn’t accepted, and I believe that if I were a chair-man, it would have been handled differently. Dealing with a woman leader was something different for the board of supervisors in Amador County. I had to develop a thick skin and not take no for an answer,” stated Pope Flores. The turning point of change was the groundbreaking of one of the tribe’s projects. Those who were in opposition finally agreed to work with the tribe. “In reality, they had failed to stop our tribe,” shared Pope Flores.

“Dealing with a woman leader was something different for the board of supervisors in Amador County. I had to develop a thick skin and not take no for an answer,”

History is vital to understanding the contributions and the significance of the Me-Wuk Indians. The Upasani Cultural Center is dedicated to the memory of Louie and Annie Oliver and the deep cultural history of the Me-Wuk Indians. Pope Flores acquired a cultural center and has made it rich with history for each generation never to forget. One of the other battles Pope Flores faced was the size of the tribe. Because of the size of the members, some of the opposition was that the tribe was too small. “I built a cultural center so everyone could see our history, showing that we have deep roots in history.”

Chairwoman Rhonda Pope Flores has made great strides in upholding traditions and bringing resources to her community, including establishing Little Big Time, the only Native American preschool in Sacramento, opened in 2008. The child development preschool serves ages two to prekindergarten, providing a culturally rich environment while learning Native American traditions. Chairwoman Pope Flores has also joined the California Tribal College Board. In addition, Pope Flores has helped to ensure that community resources are provided and restored by purchasing and restoring the Bryte VFW Memorial Hall in Sacramento. “We have been able to give and do for our tribe and help other tribes with our community efforts and outreach. Restoring VFW Hall and turning it into a community center filled with resources was an important accomplishment,” shared Pope Flores.

Tribal Traditions and a deep sense of gratitude are integral to what Chairwoman Pope Flores honors, stating, “My great grandparents paved the way for our tribe, so the road was already paved. We just had to follow it.” This practice includes keeping the tribal traditions and the ceremonies going. “One of the biggest traditions for us is the Memorial Day gathering started by my grandpa Louie,” stated Pope Flores, “He took pride in feeding the people as he was the most gracious host, and that is what I hold dear to my heart.” Being able to bring back ceremonies is what Pope-Flores is most proud of. Pope Flores stated, “When you have your tribal land, you have to feed it spiritually through prayer and community.” Economic development is another major accomplishment for Pope Flores. “Being able to get economic development through our casino efforts has opened the door to purchase additional land and bring back our tribal land and develop more language and cultural outreach programs,” stated Pope Flores.

Resources and ongoing training are provided to tribal members, such as governance training and classes for youth to engage them in business development training, college apprenticeships, and much more. B

Additional Information: https://nahc.ca.gov/resources/california-indianhistory/ https://www.bvtribe.com/history.html https://californiatribalcollege.com/leadership-tribes/

“When you have your tribal land, you have to feed it spiritually through prayer and community”

Stephen Berry

Putting Miles on the Brush

n Jean Purnell

Recently having returned from a weeklong “paint-out” in Mendocino, watercolorist and teacher Stephen Berry relaxed in his fragrant, backyard garden in Vallejo. “It is very liberating to be able to get away from home for an extended workshop,” he says. “The area is gorgeous, and I spend most of the time painting by myself.” Berry plans to offer the Mendocino works for sale during the first weekend in December at the Benicia Plein Air Gallery, of which he is a longtime member. He will be present in the gallery that weekend to meet visitors and talk about his art.

He will also release the new batch of paintings online. A new online release is planned every four months or so as part of an increased use of social media to expand his art and teaching audience.

Stephen has been painting for about a decade and has a studio in his home where he hangs his recently completed work. He has always been interested in painting from life. He grew up in the country, in Sonora, with a love of the outdoors. “I’ve always been drawn to painting the natural landscape, especially California.” His works are loose and impressionistic. He enjoys exploring how water and pigments mix and likes visual paint brush marks in his works. “I don’t mind a visible drip of paint on the paper.”

Berry started painting as a teen, mostly comics and manga. He put his art practice aside as a young adult but eventually came back to it and enrolled in junior college art classes, studying with Pablo Villicana at Merritt College. “I found myself researching modern painters that I admired, like Alvaro Castagnet. I have learned a lot by watching others paint.”

For many years he was a part-time stay-at-home dad, sharing the care of his daughter and nieces with his sister,

who also lives in Vallejo. He created a landscaping business, Living Earth Gardens, specializing in ecologically friendly landscapes. While the business supported the family, he has been able to set aside one day a week to paint over the past 8 years. With his daughter now in high school, he devotes two full days per week to paint.

Berry is growing his art business by teaching online intensive courses through Zoom. “I’m designing my classes to get out of Zoom what it does best. On-site classes allow for more development in technical advancement, but in an online course, I can teach the mental aspects of art, such as composition, value studies, shapes, and use of colors and color contrast.”

From February through May this year, Berry took on a challenge to create 100 paintings in 100 days, posting the photos daily on social media. “I set my sights low at first, committing to doing a 7-day challenge. Once I completed that, I began to set my goals higher. I had to arrange my day just to be sure I had time to paint. I had ups and downs. Some days I knew I created bad work and I didn’t feel like doing it. My family would come home and say, ‘have you painted anything today?’ If I hadn’t, they would say, ‘well, we’re gonna go do something

and give you a little time to yourself.”

Berry hopes to inspire his students to paint every day, to push themselves to see what they can achieve. “It’s all about miles on the brush, repetition, and experimentation,” he notes. “One of the best things about painting every day is it makes the painting less precious. There’s nothing worse for learning than a little success. It makes you tighten up.

It’s much better to just try things and see what happens.” He laughs knowingly. “It’s never too late to ruin a painting.”

For more information visit https:// www.seamlessexpression.com/ and @stephenberryart on Facebook and Instagram. Also Benicia Plein Air Gallery, 307 First Street. http://www. beniciapleinair.com/ B

KID CRAFT CORNER

Little Pumpkin Turkeys

n Bitsy Hall, M.Ed. and owner of Learning Circles

When our minds wander to Thanksgiving crafts, most of us recall tracing our once little hands to make turkeys. “Turkey hands,” whether done in a rudimentary fashion or fancifully cut out, are here to stay. However, if you’re in the market for a new Thanksgiving craft that can double as a decoration, this craft is for you! These little turkey pumpkins repurpose leftover Halloween gourds and include a visit outside to get the best fall leaf. Depending on the age of your child, this craft may require some help with preparation and supervision.

TO MAKE ONE PUMPKIN TURKEY, YOU’LL NEED:

One small pumpkin, preferably palm sized and with the stem removed

… Two googly eyes

… Scissors Glue

Brown, yellow, and red construction paper

… Thumbtack

… One large fall leaf

DIRECTIONS:

Begin by preparing the construction paper for each part of the turkey:

a. Head: Cut out a long bulb shape. You’ll need extra “neck” to fold later.

b. Beak: Cut out a small triangle of the yellow construction paper.

c. Feet: Cut out a bubble shaped W with a flat, uniform base (see picture).

d. Wattle: Cut out a red squiggle about the same size as the beak.

Prepare the turkey head:

a. Depending on how long you want your turkey neck, fold about 1 inch of the turkey headpiece back. This will serve as a kickstand for step 3.

b. Glue the eyes to the center of the rounded bulb section.

c. Glue the turkey wattle to about where the head meets the neck.

d. Attach the triangle so the point of the beak meets the center of the wattle.

Attach the turkey head to the pumpkin:

a. With the folded inch of the turkey neck, put a generous dab of glue to attach to the stem section of the pumpkin. You may need to hold down for a few seconds to ensure it sticks.

Turkey feet:

a. Using another generous dab of glue for each foot, place the feet towards the front base of your turkey. Hold for a few seconds to secure placement.

Turkey Tail: a. To attach the turkey tail (your fall leaf), puncture the base of the leaf onto the back of the pumpkin with the thumbtack.

Placement: a. Find a good place around your home to show off your child’s pumpkin turkey! B

Snap a picture of your craft and tag @beniciamagazine on Instagram. We would love to see your versions of this Thanksgiving inspired craft!

Benicia's Wild Nightlife

Photo by Lindsay Wildlife Experience

There is a side of Benicia that few people see or get to experience: the wild side. While the city sleeps, as in a Maurice Sendak story, the wild things come out to play. Skunks and raccoons and opossums, oh my! Here is a brief look at Benicia’s wild nightlife:

SKUNKS

“I get across the street pretty quick when I see a skunk,” says a woman we’ll call Gayle, a long-time Benicia resident who asked that her name not be used. But she and her friends walk the streets of Southampton and even downtown virtually every day in the very early morning before sunup. So she has firsthand experience on what it’s like to have an angry skunk jump out at you in the dark.

It happened to her on Panorama Drive. “We had four dogs with us, and we were walking down the hill and this skunk came out of a bush and started chasing us,” Gayle recalls. They made a clean escape but of all the creatures roaming Benicia’s sleeping streets, skunks are the ones she’s most leery of.

Cats are the most abundant night wanderers, the most common animal she sees. Gayle wears headlamps to light her way and to make sure the occasional passing car notices her in the darkness. They also help her identify which animal is which by the glowing eyes staring back at her.

“The good thing about headlamps is that it picks up their eyeballs,” she says. “You can tell it’s a cat by its eyeball spread.”

OPOSSUMS

One early morning in late October there was rustling in a tree above her on McCall Drive in Water’s End. She beamed her headlamps upward, revealing tiny points of light she thought at first were Halloween lights strung around the tree by a festive homeowner.

Instead, “it was a family of opossums. It was all these different eyeballs looking at me. That’s all I could see. These eyeballs lit up in the tree.”

RACCOONS

Kindly cat owners leave food out overnight in their backyards for their little charges, but it is not always sweet Simba or Luna that eat it. Opossums, skunks and raccoons appreciate a nice free meal too.

“If you see something in a storm drain,” testifies Gayle, “it’s usually gonna be a raccoon. That’s their underground highway. They go from drain to drain. It’s warm for them down there.”

DEER

Deer like to come out at night because it allows them to feast on Benicia’s attractive landscaping without being bothered by any annoying humans. Gayle spotted one deer simply “trotting down the middle of the street, just passing through.” Another was walking straight up the three flights of concrete steps that connect Jack London’s playing fields with Hastings Drive. Another time a buck, with an impressive set of antlers, strolled by.

OWLS

Owls may be the most magical of these nocturnal creatures. “They ghost by when they fly past,” she says, lyrically. “You can hear them, you sense them passing, but you never see them.”

Except for that one misbehaved skunk, not a single animal, not one, has ever bothered Gayle or her friends. “I don’t have any fear of these animals,” she maintains. “Nobody bothers us. All the critters go away from you. A coyote just stands there and stares at you. Then he goes off his way.”

One of their dogs may let out a yap or two, but they’re all on leashes—wearing LED collars to heighten their visibility—and it never amounts to anything. And even at that early hour, the dogs appreciate the fresh air and exercise, as do the humans who get to witness something every day that many Benicians also miss: the sunrise.

“We’ve got to see the sunrise,” says Gayle. “The sunrise tells you what kind of day you’re going to have. It’s a peaceful feeling.” B

n Kevin Nelson

November Events

First Fridays at the Museum – Humdinger Band Friday, November 4th

5–8pm Benicia Historical Museum Arts Benicia

5th Annual Sip with Soroptimist Saturday, November 5th 6:30–10pm Benicia Clock Tower “Cut Open the Sky” Book Signing with Corliss Corazza Thursday, November 10th 7–8pm Benicia Public Library

Benicia Theatre Group presents “Laura” Through November 12th Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 2pm B.D.E.S. Hall, 140 W. J Street, Benicia Vallejo Symphony presents “Game of Cards” Celebrating 90 Seasons November 12th & 13th 8pm on the 12th, 3pm on the 13th Empress Theatre Main Stage

Thursday-Friday Starting November 13th 1–5pm Arts Benicia Connie Millholland and Sydney Kaye Exhibit Sunday, November 20th Opening Reception 1–4pm Marilyn Citron O’Rourke Art Gallery, Benicia Public Library

Wine Walk and Shop Small Saturday, November 26th 1–5pm Downtown Benicia B

There There

n Cooper Mickelson Photos by Cooper Mickelson

This month's book is one some of you have most likely already read. It has won multiple awards and has been displayed in many local bookshops over the past few years. It has been recommended by friends and has popped up while scrolling through Instagram, but it took me until this year to finally pick it up. So, if you're like me and are a bit late to the party, I hope this review can convince you to take the plunge and break open this spectacular novel.

There There by Tommy Orange is an exploration of the "urban Indian" experience. The book follows a cast of Indigenous Americans from Oakland, jumping perspectives with every chapter. Much like some of our favorite holiday movies, the characters' lives weave together throughout the story, entangling and glancing off one another.

In 21st-century America, these characters struggle with identifying as authentic Indians, often feeling as though they are playing a part and lack the knowledge or experience to consider themselves truly part of the culture.

The majority of There There is spent leading up to a powwow at the Oakland Coliseum. Each character has a reason for attending this event; some are less harmless than others. One group of characters is planning a robbery, intending to take prize money with the help of 3-D printed guns. Knowing this plan is in the works increases the tension felt as the powwow approaches. As readers, we know that something will go terribly wrong at this event, where most characters hope to finally feel connected to their heritage.

Orange's elegant writing and ability to create unique narrative styles for each character results in an almost flawless novel. This short and powerful book explores the meaning of identity in a world both old and new. You'll be taken to some familiar Bay Area locations and gain a deeper understanding of the modern Indigenous American experience. If you've yet to read There There, I highly recommend you pick it up. And if you have already read it, you might consider adding it to your holiday gift list for friends and family.

Please check the content warnings before diving into There There

is what it sounded like to make

through

hundreds of American years, to sing through them.

sound of

Book and Cocktail Club

By Tommy Orange

Picket Fences

Picket Fences

n Darrell Mcelvane

As the Sun kisses the waves of the Benicia bay, signaling morning has come,it’s time for the residents of Benicia to start their day. For some residents this means nursing a hangover from last night's event, critiquing questionable art purchases, or relaying last night's gossip.

For one couple, the morning brings with it new hope for new beginnings. Hank is awakened by the smell of fresh coffee permeating from downstairs, he shuffles himself out of bed and heads down the stairs to find Madalyn sitting outside on one of the pool lounge chairs, sipping coffee in his grey t-shirt. “Morning, I haven’t seen you in one of my t-shirts in so long,” he says, taking a seat beside her and kissing her hand. “I haven’t been in the mood to wear it for quite some time. I meant what I said last night... this is a new start.” Madalyn says caressing his face. “I know. And I’m in,” he replies.

“What’s your day looking like?” He asks, taking the coffee from her hands and freely taking a sip. “Well, I have to stop at Angela’s to go over the final tally for the event… but after that, I should be free,” she replies. Hank takes Madalyn into his arms, “How about when you get done we can meet up at Amore Bistrot for some food, and then after that, we can go for a stroll to the waterfront,” Hank suggests. Still in his arms, she says “Yes.. that sounds like a date.” “It is,” Hank mutters. “Then, I will see you there. I have to take a shower,” she says, breaking the embrace. Hank watches her walk away and blurts out “Should we conserve water?” Madalyn stops in

her tracks and turns around with a smirk “Come on.” Hank doesn’t miss a beat to join her.

The Walkers aren’t the only ones with an exciting morning, Angela and Bruce lay in bed talking about the day. “What do you have planned today?” Bruce asks with his arms around her, not wanting to get out of bed. “I have to meet with Madalyn today, and I might go into the office for a minute.” She says, enjoying his embrace. The two are interrupted by a knock on the bedroom door “Hey! You two up? Mom, Dad?” the two giggle and roll their eyes. “Yes, how can we help you son?” Bruce answers.

“I need fifty bucks,” Payton says through the door. Angela responds, “Look in my clutch on the sofa.” This is followed by silence. “…Okay, you’re welcome.” they both say to themselves. “Why don’t I head down to One House Bakery and you can whip us up some of that cinnamon coffee and we meet back here in bed,” Bruce suggests. “Now that sounds like a plan.” Angela says, rolling over to steal a kiss.

As the residents of Benicia transition into midday, Oliva Leavenworth is busy.

Olivia Leavenworth is in her kitchen grabbing a snack, taking a break from her crunching numbers and organizing art pickups and deliveries. Xavier enters the kitchen, still sweaty from the gym. “Hey, Mom,” he says in passing. “‘Hey, Mom’... that’s all I get? I think that should be followed by an explanation,” Olivia says, leaning on the island and taking a sip of sparkling water. “What do you mean?” Xavier replies. “I mean Saraya Foster. What’s going on there? Diahann Foster called

three times this morning wanting to meet with me. Now, are you going to tell me?” Olivia demands, visibly annoyed. Xavier stands there wanting to tell his mom the truth, desperately trying to find the courage to say the words that could free him and Payton to be together, but the only thing that comes out is, “We are together, Mom,” Xavier says with a sadness in his heart.

Sensing something is off, Olivia replies, “I don’t know what you’re not telling me, but something is not right here.” “Don’t worry, Mom, I’m fine,” Xavier says, leaving Olivia puzzled and worried.

Oliva Leavenworth isn’t the only one being left with a sinking feeling.

Madalyn arrives on time for the meeting with Angela and in true Madalyn fashion, she lets herself in. “Angela... Angela, are you here?” She calls out to her. “I’m in the office, come on back here,” Angela answers back to Madalyn with her voice echoing down the hall. Madlyn enters the office and they greet each other. But before a word can be said the phone rings.

“Hello… This is she… Yes, Wingate,”

Madalyn notices Angela’s face and tone switch and whispers, “What’s wrong?” Angela is still on the phone. “What? When? … Yes I’ll be right there … Got it … Thank you, officer,” Angela hangs up the phone in disbelief. “Angela, what’s wrong?”

Madalyn asks. “That… that was the Benicia Police…they found Connie in her backyard. She’s at Queen of the Valley Hospital.” Trying to catch her breath, Angela manages to get out the words, “She was beaten, she’s in a coma.” B

To be continued…

CHICKEN

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

n Gourmet Gracie and Movie Magic

What a terrific discovery! Gracie’s only regret is not indulging earlier in the happy deliciousness you’ll find here. Breakfast/ brunch/lunch and dinner, closed Mondays.

This family owned “comfort food” restaurant opened in January 2019. The HideOut in Lafayette and Guava in downtown Martinez are in the same, fabulous, friendly family. Excellent service. Generous portions of tastiness.

BRUNCH! Gracie prides herself on “perfect” Hollandaise sauce for her pompously “perfect” Eggs Benedict. Sampling this dish outside of her home brings a scowl to her cheery face; she dreads the inevitable disappointment. But wait, can it be true? The Benedicts at Vic’s are truly perfection. English muffins, crispy outside, tender underneath; perfectly poached eggs with the right amount of “ooze;” generous swaths of citrus hollandaise sauce. Choose ham, BACON, smoked salmon or the veggie version with spinach, avocado, tomato. Protip: Order extra hollandaise for decadent dipping. The fruit cup is delicious and special and all, but really…..bring on the tater tots!

For a walk on the wild side, why not brave The King sandwich? Elvis’ favorite-- peanut butter, jelly, bacon, banana on wheat, browned in butter. “Thank you, thank you very much!”

The extensive dinner menu includes ribeyes, fried chicken, fresh seafood, pasta, burgers. The fried chicken/waffle sandwich is unsurpassed. Many more lunch items, including Paninis and salads. Children’s menu, vegan/vegetarian, gluten-free options. Full bar. The charming outdoor patio is heated, dog-friendly and very comfortable.

You won’t be sorry…treat yourself! See you at Vic’s.

This Dreamworks production is the highest grossing stop-motion animated film in history, with a sequel scheduled to be released in 2023. Critically acclaimed with a Rotten Tomatoes score of 97% (almost unheard of), this is a family film with something for everyone. Nominated for a Golden Globe and winner of the Critic’s Choice award, as well as various awards for animation, it’s a movie that’s not easily forgotten.

These beautiful, well dressed, British chickens living on an egg farm are intent on escaping their seemingly, inevitable doom. Laying the required number of eggs is necessary to stay off the chopping block. Then they discover that the farmers have a new plan to fatten them up and turn them into chicken pies. After several unsuccessful escape attempts, an American rooster inadvertently drops from the sky into their compound. Believing that Rocky Rhodes the rooster can teach them how to literally fly the coop, they offer Rocky protection from being discovered. Eventually, Rocky falls in love with a gorgeous hen named Ginger, but not before a wonderful and satisfying adventure takes place that brings everyone together towards— FREEDOM.

These chickens are highly individual, oddly believable, wildly funny and wickedly clever. This is a feel good movie with a happy ending and a moral of “never give up on your dreams.”

The script is smart with references to The Great Escape and Stalag 17, which will delight adults while keeping the children entertained with colorful, costumed chickens doing absurd stunts and tossing off hilarious one liners.

Bring on the giggles. This movie is lovely and kind, just what we need for the holiday season!