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Volume 10 Issue 3 January 2015
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2 • Benicia Magazine
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BeniciaMagazine.com • 3
4 • Benicia Magazine
Community News Need additional copies? Contact the Community Relations office: Valero Benicia Refinery, 3400 East Second Street, Benicia CA 94510
707-745-7534 January 2015
Campaign total: $721,090
Employees Exceed United Way Goal; Refinery Wins $10,000 for Charity “We did it!” exclaimed Benicia resident and United Way Co-Chair Karen Muehlbauer, Manager of Mechanical Reliability for the Valero Benicia Refinery. “Our employees donated so generously to the annual United Way of the Bay Area campaign that we hit 117 percent of our goal.” Employees donated $477,059 through payroll deductions, which were then matched 50 cents on the dollar by Valero, adding $238,530. In addition, employees held an online silent auction that brought in $5,501. The total campaign brought in $721,090. Muehlbauer and Shift Superintendent Ray Castro served as co-chairs for the Valero “Heroes of Giving” campaign, which raised funds for United Way’s 2015 programs and nonprofit organizations. Because the refinery exceeded its goal by more than any other Valero refinery in the U.S., it was awarded a bonus of $10,000 from Valero to donate to charity. The average donation by Benicia employees exceeded $1,000. “One in five Bay Area residents lives in
poverty,” explained Muehlbauer, and we are excited to partner with United Way to help achieve the goal of cutting that number in half by 2020.” Castro spoke passionately about the generosity of Valero employees. “Their willingness to help provide a pathway out of poverty for those in the communities in which we live and work is evident in the results,” he said. The Benicia refinery was not alone in its success, as Valero refinery employees throughout the U.S. pledged more than $7.3 million to United Way charities. With the annual company matching contribution added in, Valero’s overall 2015 campaign total topped $11.2 million. This surpassed last year’s pledge total by nearly six percent. The Benicia refinery directs its company match to the United Way SparkPoint Centers located in Solano County. SparkPoint is a one-stop financial help and education center where low-income residents can access a full range of free services. Information: www.SparkPointCenters.org
Karen Muehlbauer and Ray Castro served as Co-Chairs of Valero’s United Way Campaign. Anne Wilson, Chief Executive Officer for United Way of the Bay Area, was the keynote speaker at the refinery’s campaign kickoff reception.
Annual Table Top Exercise Offers Incident Command Training The Valero Benicia Refinery recently hosted its annual table-top oil spill exercise to train employees and participating agencies in how to respond to oil spills and how to work cooperatively under the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the Incident Command System. Participants in the November 2014 exercise included the City of Benicia Police and Fire Departments, Solano County Environmental
Fast Fact: Safety First:
Health Division, Contra Costa County Office of Emergency Response, California State Parks, US Coast Guard, and California Fish & Wildlife—Office of Spill Prevention and Response (OSPR). The training teaches preparedness, response and recovery strategies, and requires attendees to fully engage in a “dry run” of their assigned responsibilities and roles in response to the fictitious oil spill.
The Benicia Refinery is a two-time winner of the United Way of the Bay Area’s Spirit of the Bay Award, the organization’s top honor. Is it time to rid your refrigerator of spoiled leftovers? Check out FoodSafety.gov
BeniciaMagazine.com • 5
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Advertising sales Joey Baker 707.718.0166 adsales@beniciamagazine.com Advertising deadlines New ads: the 5th of the month prior to the issue month Ad changes: 6 weeks prior to the issue month
Contact Us 707.853.8159, Beniciamagazine.com editor@beniciamagazine.com Administration Office Manager Risë Goebel Copy Editor/proofreader Beth Steinmann Benicia Magazine is published monthly by Polygon Publishing, LLC. Copyright © 2014, all rights reserved. Contents of Benicia Magazine cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed in Benicia Magazine editorial or advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, and may not reflect the opinion of Benicia Magazine’s management or publisher. Subscriptions $18.00 per year. Benicia Magazine, 611 First Street, Benicia, CA 94510. 707.853.8159, beniciamagazine.com.
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Valspar is now at available at the Ace Paint Studio! Valspar Optimus and Valspar Aspire are premium paints with brilliant color options. Bring this ad in for a free one pint sample at Pedrotti Ace Hardware www.acehardware.com/local/pedrotti 745.6887
Come see our completely remodeled space!
The contemporary, but comfortable interior includes an enlarged game room, flat screen TV’s and a new salad bar area. Still serving the same great pizza menu with seasonal specials. roundtable pizza.com 746.7000
Sport Clips loves being apart of the Benicia community! We offer our clients the expertise of trained stylists in a fun, casual environment where they can enjoy watching sports on TV during their haircut. Free MVP upgrade with ad. sportclips.com 751.1775
Happy New Year! Benicia Magazine wishes all our readers a healthy and prosperous 2015. Visit us online at beniciamagazine.com facebook.com/BeniciaMagazine Twitter: @beniciamagazine BeniciaMagazine.com • 7
JANUARY
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 3
Benicia
15
16
Features
Staying fit in Benicia has never been easier The Southampton Center continues to evolve
18
16 18
Departments 10 From the Editor 14 Currents
Bio: George Shelhorn, Baylink Ferry Deck Hand By the Numbers: Random facts about our town Capitol Neighbors Speaker Series gears up for 2015
20 Downtown Map
22 Arsenal Map 24 Interview
DeAnne Miller, chiropractor, nutritionist
26 Guide to Local Restaurants 27 Backwards Glance
Flooding at the waterfront in 1950
28 Calendar of Events
Cover: Illustration by vector artist drumcheg. Photos this page, clockwise from top left: Girl Scouts Ariel and Magdalena Ragona, and Katrina Taagepera, Capitol Neighbors Speaker Series, photo by Colin Pattison Photograpy; Waiting to be adopted at Pet Food Express; drum aerobics class at Benicia Fitness. 8 • Benicia Magazine
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• Serving the Benicia/Vallejo area for over 70 years • Only on-site crematory in the area • Funerals, memorials, VA Burials John “Sherm” Passalacqua
Passalacqua Funeral Chapel 901 West Second St., Benicia 707-745-3130 www.passalacquafuneralchapel.com Greg Silva
Twin Chapels Mortuary
Open Every Day 700 First St.
1100 Tennessee St., Vallejo 707-552-6696 www.twinchapelsmortuary.com
Benicia, CA 94510 707-745-0254 www.studio41.com
Voted Best Funeral Home In Solano County 7 Years In A Row
Golden Bough In Concert
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Blown Glass Wall Art Jewelry Gift Items
Saturday, January 17, 2015 This Celtic band fuses traditional Celtic music 8:00—10:00 PM with contemporary Stone Hall acoustic sounds creating rich unique harmonies. Tickets $20 Tickets available at: ♦ Benicia Historical Museum 2060 Camel Road Benicia, CA 94510 (707) 745-5435
Beniciahistoricalmuseum.org
♦ Bookshop Benicia 636 First St.
Celebrating 16 Years in Business! Gallery Hours: Sun-Sat 11-5 109 East F Street , Benicia, CA 94510
707.748.1336 www.lindsayartglass.com
BeniciaMagazine.com • 9
J From the Editor January 2015
Photo by Malcolm Slight
anuary 2015 has a nice ring to it, doesn’t it? For many of us, it’s the month of renewal. The freshness of a new year makes all things possible. What will we write on our blank slates, and how will we focus our intentions? At the magazine, we will continue to bring local stories to readers as we roll out some new columns. But first, a wrap-up of 2014 is in order. We received stacks of responses to our 2014 survey that helped us gauge what readers most enjoy and what you’d like to see in future stories. Retired Benicia Veteran H. Robert Hall, USAF, was the winner of our survey drawing for a free iPad 2—it was a delight meeting him and hearing his positive feedback. A lot of folks asked us last year about how we keep coming up with new stories about Benicia every month. That made us wonder if there’s a lingering perception that not much is happening here. While our own special brand of charm doesn’t land us in the top cocktail capitols on the Bay, believe me, there is a lot to write about. Our strategic location, in addition to our progressive governance and interesting people and places, more than allow for great stories. We’ll keep offering good reads that we hope will have you looking at Benicia with fresh eyes in 2015. Continuing the theme of what’s fresh, in this issue we take another look at the Southampton Center, now that Raley’s is close to completing its makeover, along with other great upgrades to Center businesses. You’ll also find two new columns: Bio is a mini snapshot of what local folks do for a living. Not surprisingly, there’s a fascinating array of jobs people are commuting to and performing right here in town. This month’s column features George Shelhorn, who has a vista from his “office” window that’s one of the best in the world—he’s a deck hand on the Vallejo Ferry, with a dolphin’s eye view of the San Francisco Bay. Then there’s By the Numbers, a feature that tells Benicia’s story through random tidbits and slapdash facts. As we gathered information for our second feature, Fitness Free for All, I couldn’t help but ponder my own fitness goals. As a lapsed athlete, I found inspiration in the sheer number of ways we can all get our exercise routines back on track. My goal is to try something different each month in addition to walking and swimming: Tai Chi, yoga and a variety of dance classes. The buddy system works for me—follow my progress on our Facebook page so I’ll feel more committed. For added inspiration, let me know how you are doing on our page with your renewed commitment to wellness in 2015.
Jeanne Steinmann
Tweet, post or send your suggestions & ideas to: editor@beniciamagazine.com www.beniciamagazine.com
10 • Benicia Magazine
Benicia Grill 6th Year Anniversary!
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Tree topping hurts trees & impacts home values
Topping is perhaps the most harmful pruning practice. Topping: • Is a violation of the Benicia Tree Ordinance • Causes decay • Stresses a tree's health • Creates safety hazards • Is a high-maintenance pruning practice • Makes a tree unsightly and detracts from a home's landscape
Don't top your trees, learn how to prune correctly. www.ci.benicia.ca.us, Parks & Community Services www.beniciatrees.org
BeniciaMagazine.com • 11
BENICIA FITNESS
Benicia Fitness helps members attain their health and fitness goals, regardless of age or fitness level. A full service fitness center located on First Street, we provide a variety of classes and workout options, personal training, nutrition programs and health assessments.
CROSSFIT 707
CrossFit 707, est. 2010 in Benicia, is dedicated to making our clients more fit. Selected as one of the best CrossFit gyms in the USA by SHAPE Magazine. We are “Working Hard to Make the Rest of Life Easy.”
crossfit707.com 853.3556
beniciafitness.com 745.1511
BENICIA YOGA AND WELLNESS
FROM THE CORE STUDIO
Pilates FTC is a progressive studio that focuses on corrective and effective mindful exercises. Pilates increases and improves strength, balance, stability, mobility and posture while reducing pain. FTC specializes in personalized fitness for all ages and abilities. Pilates is health!
We offer health focused Yoga classes that will make you feel good, not just look good. They are meant to meet the individual needs of the students, even those with physical challenges or limitations.
marleensyoga.net 707.246.2331
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LIGIOSO BALLET STUDIO
Try adult ballet. No prior experience needed. Adult ballet is great for de-stressing and excellent exercise for your entire body. Stretch and strengthen muscles and get a cardiovascular workout. Other benefits may include improvement in alignment and an increase in coordination, joy and artistry.
ligiosoballet.com 310.0928 JAZZERCISE
Our workouts are too hot for leg warmers! Check out our Dance Mixx, Fusion, Core, Strike and Strength60 classes to feel the beat and work it out. Incinerate up to 800 calories in an hour. This is the NEW Jazzercise!
jazzercise.com 12 • Benicia Magazine
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BeniciaMagazine.com • 13
Currents
By The Numbers
The Benicia State Recreation Area encompasses 577 acres. Our City’s namesake, Doña Benicia, had 4 words in her name — Francisca Benicia Carillo de Vallejo. Benicia’s land area is 12. 9 square miles. On its website, Benicia High School boasts 40 extracurricular clubs, including Table Tennis. Benicia has 10 Public Art installations with 2 more in the works: Benicia Bench, by Robert Arneson East Fifth Street side of Benicia Marina Mural Tiles on First Street by Guillermo Wagner Granizo
Bio
By Adriene Rockwell George Shelhorn, age 67 Employment: Deck Hand, San Francisco Bay Ferry George Shelhorn was 19 when he first went to sea on a ship called the Hawaiian Ranger that transported livestock to Hawaii. Working at sea became his summer employment during his college years while he finished his degree in Physical Education. The most thrilling voyage, he says, was in the summer of 1968 when the crew brought beer and ammunition to Vietnam on the ship Occidental Victory. His father was active in the Army, so world travel was familiar for Shelhorn. After graduating from San Jose State University in 1970, he found himself in the Peace Corp building physical education programs for two years in Venezuela. When he returned from the Peace Corp, it wasn’t long before he was working at sea again on Bay Area barges, carrying oil to Alaska, Hawaii and along the California coast. When he developed a blood cell condition in 1997, he transferred to the San Francisco Bay Ferry where he continues to work the daily commuter route between Vallejo to San Francisco. From 1 to 9pm he’s busy taking tickets, educating visitors about Alcatraz or other attractions, or working in the engine room among other sea worthy duties. He’s even trained to captain the boat if needed. “If you have to go to work, this is a great job,” says Shelhorn. He enjoyed transporting Giants fans during the World Series, and had a stellar view for the America’s Cup. “I meet interesting people from around the world, and see a lot of great sunsets.” 14 • Benicia Magazine Currents
Ceramic-tiled picnic tables/benches by St. Patrick-St. Vincent High School students City Park Dicta, by Sandra Shannonhouse Benicia Public Library The Navigator, (tile wall) by Guillermo Wagner Granizo, Benicia Public Library Us, by Alice Otsuji Hager Inside the entrance at Benicia Public Library Untitled, by Gregg Renfrow, Benicia Public Library Caduceus Rose, by Lee Roy Champagne Rose Drive Medical Arts Center Rose Drive & Columbus Parkway Self-portrait tile walls by Mills Elementary students Instruction by Guillermo Wagner Granizo Benicia Community Center Dona Benicia's Mantilla (envelops the General's chair), by Linda Fleming, Harbor walk First & B Streets
BRINGING HISTORY TO LIFE WITH
Capitol Neighbors Speaker Series In 2014, a group of Benicia State Parks Association volunteers instituted a new program, the “Capitol Neighbors Speaker Series.” The living history event includes a presentation at the State Capitol involving readings, lectures and volunteer actors in period costume to highlight a special time or person from Benicia’s past. An accompanying exhibit in the recently added exhibit case at the Capitol may coincide with the events. The group kicked off the series in Fall, 2013 with Mrs. Mizner and her Mother: Eyewitness Accounts of a Deadly Shipwreck and the Great Earthquake and Fire of 1906, followed in Spring, 2014 with Making a Living on First Street: F.J. Stumm and Ansley K. Salz, highlighting two historic Benicia businesses that thrived on First Street. The Fall, 2014 offering, John Brown’s Body, by Stephen Vincent Benet, was a big hit as each of the presentations gains momentum. The event coincided with the opening of a new exhibit, The Literary Life in an Army Arsenal: The Benet Years in Benicia, 1905-1911, included a presentation of portions of Stephen Vincent Benet's best-selling poem set during America's Civil War, John Brown's Body. Benet wrote the book-length poem in Paris, France in the 1920’s, for which he won a Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1928. The poem has fans ranging from President John F. Kennedy to Margaret Mitchell, author of Gone with the Wind. “We are very enthusiastic about the series,” says Mike Caplin, publicity volunteer for the Benicia State Parks Association. “It’s raising funds for the association. It spurs interest and reconnects residents and visitors with Benicia History, and fosters a greater appreciation of the Benicia Capitol State Historical Park.” The Benicia State Parks Association will present the next event this spring. The subject matter will be World War II, in conjunction with a the opening of an exhibit at the Benicia Historical Museum. There’s a small admission fee; all proceeds benefit the BCSHP. For more information about upcoming Speaker Series events, contact BSPA at protectbeniciastateparks.org or call 707.745.3670. For information about exhibits at the Benicia Historical Museum, visit beniciahistoricalmuseum.org or call 707.745-5435.
Photos: “John Brown’s Body” Fall 2014 Speaker Series, photos by Colin Pattison Photography Top: Miss Atkins, portrayed by Leann Taagepera Center left: Young Woman, portrayed by Autumn Skaj Center right: Young Man, portrayed by Ryan Wolch Bottom: Event Coordinator Donnell Rubay Introduces the program
BeniciaMagazine.com • 15
Fitness Free for All Staff writer Is the remorse of post-holiday caloric excess hitting you hard right about now? Perhaps the free pass of party-season overindulgence is literally weighing you down, and you are contemplating starting a new workout routine, or renewing your lapsed gym membership. But where’s the best place to start? Fortunately for locals, there’s no shortage of gyms and other fitness arenas that can suit just about anyone’s idea of a motivational workout within minutes of Benicia’s furthest boundaries. Whether your idea of a great workout is hopping on a bike, swimming, jumping into a kayak, walking or running on Benicia’s many scenic trails, taking a class or hitting the gym, this town is teeming with options. Shake up your current routine by trying something new, and involve different muscle groups in the process. An important first step is to discuss any fitness plan with your health care professional before jumping in. Once given the goahead, the next step is to make a commitment and stick with it, by sheer force of will or using a buddy system; set your goals and track your progress. You can also take a little help from technology— there are many apps available for your smart phone. Here in Benicia we are spoiled for choice. To organize the array of options, we’ve broken them down by category: aerobics, dance, yoga, gyms and Pilates. There are specialty focuses within the categories as well. For example, Marleen’s Yoga structures classes around the student’s need to feel more balanced mentally, emotionally, energetically & physically, and The Benicia Yoga House offers classes in several different yoga styles. The same goes for Benicia’s gyms, they each have their own unique philosopy, classes and equipment. Take a tour, check them out and have fun getting fit in 2015. Photos, top: Marleen's Yoga class, by Barbara Fredricks. Bottom, Jazzercise with Leslie Rowley, by Malcolm Slight.
AEROBICS
PILATES
BENICIA JAZZERCISE This Benicia institution lures women of all ages to fun, high and low impact workouts. beniciajazzercise.com, 707.748.0827
STAGE ONE DANCE STUDIO Jazz, tap, ballet, contemporary, lyrical, musical theater & pre-ballet/tap classes. stage1dance.com, 707.745.1834
CITY OF BENICIA Water aerobics and aerobics classes. ci.benicia.ca.us, 707.746.4200
SUSIE HARPER SCHOOL OF DANCE Developing self-confidence, self-esteem through movement, teamwork and fun. susieharperdance.com, 707.745.6717
DANCE BENICIA BALLET SCHOOL Children and adults classically trained for pleasure and fitness. beniciaballet.com, 707.746.6757
TIP TAP TOE A professional environment where dancers of all experiences inspire each other. tiptaptoedancestudio.com, 707.373.7584
LIGIOSO BALLET STUDIO Classical ballet promoting technique, integrity and professionalism. ligiosoballet.com, 707.310.0928
THE DAILY METHOD Combining the best of Pilates, yoga, and ballet barre training in the Historic Arsenal. thedailymethod.com, 707.751.1530
16 • Benicia Magazine
FROM THE CORE PILATES Progressive fitness and wellness studio emphasizing consistency, mindful exercise and fun; individual and group coaching. pilatesfromthecore.com, 707.373.9245
YOGA MARLEEN’S YOGA Rehab, Deep Stretch and Strength & Alignment classes designed to suit student’s needs. marleensyoga.net, 707.246.2331 BENICIA YOGA HOUSE Physically and mentally challenging but designed for all levels. Many types of yoga classes. beniciayogahouse.com, 707.297.6769
GYMS CROSSFIT707 Voted nne of the best CrossFit Gyms in the United States by SHAPE Magazine 2014, the goal here is to “kick ass at life.” crossfit707.com, 330.671.3841
DECKS • FENCES • ARBORS • RETAINING WALLS G & G Deck and Fence Proudly serving the North Bay Area
BENICIA FITNESS Joy Rund, Benicia Fitness veteran, has refreshed and refurbished the gym with new equipment and classes. beniciafitness.com, 707.745.1511 BENICIA CROSSFIT “Changing lives “1 Rep at a time” is this gym’s motto, and that regardless of fitness level anyone can benefit from CrossFit. beniciacrossfit.com, 707.742-3095 TRAINING LOFT 714 A newcomer on the scene, kickboxing, cardio fusion, weight training, TRX and more are part of the lineup. beniciatraining.com, 707.742.4043
Family owned and operated
GRIFFIN FITNESS Specializing in one-on-one training, helping clients achieve results through hard work and dedication. griffinfitness.com, 707.747.6677
SWIMMING
James Lemos Pool ci.benicia.ca.us
WALKING/RUNNING
Benicia Day Hikers beniciadayhikers.blogspot.com
Benicia Education Foundation Run for Education Annual 5K and 10K run, 1 mile walk to benefit Benicia Unified schools, April 19. Beniciarunforeducation.org
WATERSPORTS
Benicia Outrigger Canoe Club facebook. com/groups/boccpaddlers/
ays rotating • specialty cocktails • wine & extensive selection of bott alw
CYCLING
Benicia Bicycle Club beniciabicycleclub.org
NEW AT ROOKIES
Now Serving Sunday Breakfast!
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screen TV's • signed sports memorabilia • NFL ticket • 22 beers on tap
OTHER FITNESS RESOURCES
beer • appetizers • soup & salads • sandwiches • burgers • pizza • led dinner entrees • delectable desserts • locally grown produce • 33 large
BENICIA HEALTH AND FITNESS CLUB Benicia’s largest gym includes circuit room, spin, classes, sauna, childcare and more. Beniciahealthandfitnessclub.com, 707.751.0273
414 A, Military East, Benicia 94510 707.750.5584• www.gandgdeckandfence.com
BeniciaMagazine.com • 17
REDISCOVERING THE
Southampton Center “—we even delved into Benicia’s history with displays at the back of the store.”
18 • Benicia Magazine
By Jeanne Steinmann Living in a small town certainly has its advantages, but it isn’t always smooth sailing. Recently, the Southampton Center has been a real challenge to navigate—especially during the holidays. Parking difficulties combined with the construction phase of the major overhaul at Raley’s had locals clenching their teeth. However, the remodel, which is being billed as the flagship prototype for other Raley’s stores, is nearing completion and the end is in sight for the project. The construction, which began last summer, is expected to be complete by the end of this month. And what a difference! Although adjustments to the lighting and improvements to the exterior are still underway, shoppers can now enjoy a hassle-free grocery shopping experience. That is, once we all figure out where everything is. According to Raley’s Store Team Leader Jose Sosa, when the remodel is complete it will be a great addition to Benicia. “The open ceiling combined with wood elements gives the store a warm, industrial feel. We wanted to reflect the community—we even delved into Benicia’s history with displays at the back of the store. I’m really excited about the food court area along the front of the store, and the expanded seating.” The deli and prepared foods area has a whole new look, but has happily retained the Peets Coffee bar. Since Peets was aced out by Starbucks for a space downtown (since closed) a few years back, it’s probably the closest we’ll get to having an actual Peets in town. “Coffee Bar personnel are currently being trained in the Peets method for espresso drinks. We have a fun, new area to sit and enjoy coffee and something from our new hot foods bar. Two chefs and two prep cooks have been hired in the Raley’s kitchen to offer a greater selection of premade options for lunch and dinner. You can eat in or actually get dinner to go,” says Sosa. The department also sports a brand-new juicing machine. The biggest change, reflected partly in the beautiful new produce section, is that the general merchandise was significantly decreased to fit all the new food items. It’s much more food-centric. “We’ve increased our natural and organic offerings by over 900 items. Natural foods used to be just four aisles. Now it’s integrated into the shelves storewide,” says Sosa. Another big difference is the checkout area—the layout has a much more open and efficient feel, and the front of the store, with all the new seating, is no longer just a pass-through to the
front doors. However, the taller shelves in the grocery aisles may take some getting used to, along with the massive food cases along the back wall. Change can be hard and I’ve certainly heard the grumbling from neighbors and friends, but this former skeptic is saying Bravo, Raley’s! I’m a huge fan of the new look of the store and its increased food options—especially the long-anticipated expansion of organic produce. Overall, it’s a wonderful and welcome addition to the Center. The rest of the Southampton Center has also seen recent changes with businesses coming and going, but it seems to have reached a point of stability. Along with the additions of Goodwill, the Dollar Store, Panda Express and Huckleberry’s, long-time merchants have also made significant upgrades to make the shopping/dining experience nicer for customers. Keeping up with the times and Benicia’s changing demographic, Round Table Pizza has just remodeled its entire space, where everything from the booth seats to the layout has changed for a more contemporary look. Flat screen TVs have been added and the game room has expanded. For a fun twist, local musicians get together on Sunday afternoons to play live Celtic music in the back room. In addition to Ace Royal Paint, Ace Hardware has been adding national paint brands to its Paint Studio. Along with Benjamin Moore and Clark & Kensington, the store now carries Valspar, making it truly unnecessary to leave town to buy paint. Ace's checkout area has been completely reconfigured. According to
owner Gene Pedrotti, the new, single queue checkout offers a “fast and fairer checkout.” Another new feature is the ability to replicate remote/smart keys with a Sidewinder cutter that uses a router- like device to make high-security keys. Sport Clips, a unique hair salon catering to men and boys, is still going strong after opening in 2012, blending a bit of the old barbershop with a sports atmosphere. It features flat screen TVs to watch the latest game while getting a haircut, which, if opting for the MVP treatment, includes a hot towel head wrap and neck and shoulder massage. Pet Food Express has added a new adoptable kittens area. Under new ownership, Little Thai has a new menu and name—Pearl Thai Cuisine, Ensenada Restaurant serves breakfast basics starting at 10am, Steve’s Hallmark impresses shoppers with ever-changing products and displays and Huckleberry’s continues to entice customers with their New-Orleans style menu. Happily, the Center has retained old favorites like Jamba Juice and The Game Stop, and essential services like The Mail Place and many others that make our lives easier. So take another look at the Southampton Center—and enjoy the changing landscape of old and new. Sections of the parking lot have been also been repaved— now if we could just have more parking! Photos, opposite: Raleys bakery and produce departments. This page top: Dine-in area at Raley's. Bottom left: Newly remodeled dining room at Round Table Pizza. Bottom right: Pearl Thai Cuisine's new look.
BeniciaMagazine.com • 19
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Camellia Tea Room 828 First Street Downtown Benicia 707.746.5293 camelliatearoom.com
Lunch, afternoon tea, housemade desserts, fine teas & tea accessories
BOOKS • TOYS • GAMES • GREETING CARDS
Celebrating 21 Years!
636 First Street M-S 10-8, Sun 10-6 707.747.5155 bookshopbenicia.com
Dudikoff Insurance Agency Planning, Products, & Services
George Dudikoff, Agent, Lic. #OB13442 159 East D Street, Suite A, Benicia • P: 707.746.7395 • F: 707.747.6814
www.farmersagent.com/gdudikoff
Real Estate doesn’t have to be this painful! Residential & New Home Sales; Property Management 707.745.0759 www.judsonandcompany.com
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Mexican Food
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637 First Street, Benicia • 707.747.YARN(9276) fiber-frolics.com
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Specialty Yarns and Classes Giovanna Sensi-Isolani, fiber artist
Serving Benicia's orthodontic needs for over 25 years Dr. Tom Campbell
Orthodontics for children and adults
Call to schedule a complimentary exam 707.745.1994 • 164 East H St., Benicia Beniciaparadocs.com
Collectibles-Antiques-Music Consignment and eBay drop-off
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Free Community Event! Saturday, 1/10/15, 10am-1pm Benicia High Gym, 1101 Military West
Full-line pet store Professional dog & cat grooming Do it yourself pet wash 1202 East 5th Street, Benicia 707.745.5016 • www.FeathererPet.com
Benicia Preschools Recreational Program & Child Care Providers Speakers, community resources, Q & A Benicia Moms Group, BUSD, First 5 Solano
707.540.3927 • beniciamomsgroup.com bmgpreschoolfair@gmail.com
BeniciaMagazine.com • 21
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Benicia Golf Association BeniciaGolf.org
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Interview with
What suggestions do you have for those who want to set health goals for 2015?
It depends on what the focus is, whether someone wants to destress or lose weight or whatever the health issue is. The main thing is to be gentle with ourselves. We start off thinking there has to be a certain way to reach our goal and when we don’t do it exactly that way, we think we’ve failed. Lots of times we feel so bad after doing something, like eating something we shouldn’t, that we get off track. If we recognize stumbles as an opportunity to learn from the experience, there can be a softening of the relationship with ourselves. No matter if the goal is better nutrition or decreasing stress, you can build a healing momentum. Get right back on track. The overall feeling should be one of health and healing.
What strategies can be used to make healthy changes?
Choose a goal that you want to focus on, then come up with three to five steps you want to do to reach that goal. Perhaps you want to lose weight and you’re choosing the framework of eating proteins, vegetables and healthy fats to do this. Maybe one of the steps is to include protein in every meal, including breakfast. Focus on doing that one step for two weeks before adding another step.
How do nutrition and chiropractic care work together?
It’s really about balancing from within. The nervous system is the life force of the body. With nutrition, you’re adding the life force from food and it can help heal the body. 24 • Benicia Magazine Interview
By Sue Sumner-Moore Photo by Malcolm Slight For a healthy start to 2015, Benicia chiropractor and nutritionist DeAnne Miller has a simple suggestion: Set a goal, and be gentle with yourself when you stumble along the way. “We’re so hard on ourselves,” she says. “If we talked to a friend the way we talk to ourselves, the relationship probably wouldn’t last.” DeAnne helps her patients have better relationships with their bodies. She encourages clients to listen to their bodies and respond to those messages. While chiropractic care is the core of her practice, she spends almost half her time offering nutritional advice. DeAnne became a chiropractor in 2000, but her introduction to the profession dates back to her childhood in Iowa. Her grandparents relied on a chiropractor for most of their medical needs, and she turned to one for help when she hurt her back. “I always was into health and healing, and when I hurt my back, I learned more about chiropractic care. Like a lot of people, I didn’t understand it. I thought it was all about the neck and back. When I learned it is about healing from the inside out, I realized it lined up with my values,” she says. Her commitment to healthy living motivates her to take and teach classes, and she is a board member of Benicia Community Gardens. Her practice collaborated on the organization’s “What’s For Dinner” series last year, and she’s excited about the permaculture project that’s beginning in town. DeAnne, 49, moved to the Bay Area to be near family after graduating from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Iowa. Her family members moved on, but she stayed and now lives in Vallejo. She opened her Essence of Life Healing Studio in Benicia 10 years ago.
It begins in the brain, which is the communications center for the body. Information from the brain travels through the nervous system. If the bones from the spine are out of balance, it’s like a cell phone call being muffled—the communication just isn’t complete.
What ailments bring patients to your practice?
I see a lot of hormone imbalance, thyroid imbalance, digestion issues, fatigue. We’re bombarded by so much in today’s society. A lot of pain is caused by inflammation. A lot of inflammation is due to our foods, stress levels and the chemicals we’re exposed to.
What kinds of foods cause inflammation?
Grains can cause inflammation—corn, oats, wheat, cereal, rice, pasta, all those carbohydrates that are quick and easy. And, of course, sugar and soy, and some dairy as well. Mostly pasteurized dairy can cause inflammation because it’s lacking the enzymes needed for digestion.
What types of foods do you recommend?
We recommend a diet of proteins, vegetables, healthy fats and few grains. We emphasize vegetables more than fruit because fruit is very high in sugar, and vegetables have more nutritional density, more minerals. … The body needs healthy fats. They are critical for the nervous system. There are so many healing properties in healthy fats like olive oil, coconut oil, butter, avocados and grapeseed oil. This framework is low-grain and low-sugar. You’re looking for nutritional density, real nutrition that comes from the soil, and less processed foods.
What should people look for when they are shopping for food?
I suggest buying locally grown food if possible, using CSAs (community-supported agriculture groups). You can look for organic, but that label can be so loose that its meaning isn’t clear. Buy green vegetables—the deep green, leafy vegetables like spinach, kale and chard. They absorb pesticides in the body. Also berries, especially strawberries, absorb pesticides. For fats, use coconut oil, butter or olive oil. The lipids will absorb pesticides. For proteins, eat sustainable proteins, whether it’s chicken, beef or seafood. Get pastured eggs—not pasteurized—because they come from chickens that are allowed to be chickens.
How can people evaluate the latest super-food or diet craze?
I get that question a lot. Typically what I say is I always go back to how nature functions. If the food comes from a box, it’s probably not close to its original, natural form. And ask yourself, is this something I can do long term?
Does stress play a role in the conditions you see in patients?
I see it all the time. It’s just the world we live in, with most of us doing multiple things, on the go all the time. Stress has huge effects on the body’s ability to heal, the ability to bring joy into your life, on digestive issues, and causes decreases in sleep.
How can people relieve stress?
Breathing is always good. When you’re driving, check in with your breath. Are you breathing from your chest, or from your belly? When we’re relaxed, we’re breathing from the belly. Or do a checkin with your body: Where do I feel tense? I do plan a class beginning in January on stress reduction. We’ll be talking about breathing techniques, visualization techniques and other ways to decrease stress.
Can activity trackers like Fitbit help you hear your body’s messages?
I think they can be used simultaneously with listening to your body. Something like Fitbit lets you know if you’ve been more or less active than you thought. Listening to your body tells you other things. If you feel fatigue after eating something in particular, knowing that can help you learn what is best for your body.
What do you do to take care of yourself?
I try to start my day in a state of mindfulness, a quiet time, whether it’s meditation or prayer. I have activities that I like— walking, Pilates, yoga. For food, I like supporting locally grown foods. The office is now a drop-off spot for Real Food Bay Area and Siren Seafood.
What do you do to relax?
I have my morning practices, and I like to walk. Nature is huge for me. I can decompress, reset and focus. I love to garden. I grow vegetables mostly, but I’m still learning.
When you were growing up in Iowa, what did you think you’d be doing at this stage of life?
I think I probably thought I’d have a family and kids and everything, and instead this (practice) has become my child.
Elementary Enrollment Beginning February 1st Enrollment for incoming Transitional Kindergarten, Kindergarten and new elementary students to BUSD begins February 1st Your child must turn five years old on or before September 1, 2015 to enroll in Kindergarten. BUSD is also offering Transitional Kindergarten again this year for all Benicia students who turn five years old between September 2nd and December 2nd, 2015. Enrollment for this program is done at each of our Elementary Schools starting the month of February. Open Enrollment for all Elementary students desiring to attend a school outside of their school of residence will be held the month of March. Forms can be picked up at any elementary site and information is on the BUSD website.
Please call any of our Elementary Schools for additional information and to schedule an appointment.
Please Join Us! Technology tools 6-12 Learn how digital resources support student research & learning, 1/27/15, BHS Benicia Unified School District 350 East K Street, Benicia, CA 707.747.8300 www.beniciaunified.org
BeniciaMagazine.com • 25
Guide TO LOCAL RESTAURANTS
SPOTLIGHT ON
JAVA POINT CAFÉ
With a street-side plaza strewn with tables, this popular café, known for their freshly made breakfast and lunch options, often has a line out the door.
366 First Street, Benicia 707.745.1449
BENICIA GRILL Family-style food with an extensive menu. Come with an appetite—serving sizes are generous. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the dining room or on the patio. 4760 E Second Street, Benicia, 707.751.0155 beniciagrill.com BUON APPETITO Intimate dining at this downtown eatery serving contemporary Italian cuisine. Try the Risotto special for a dinner treat, or a variety of scaloppini favorites. 191 Military East #F, Benicia, 707.746.7410 buonappetitorestuarant.net CAMELLIA TEA ROOM Located in a beautifully restored Victorian building with ornate dining room, Camellia Tea serves traditional afternoon tea, along with lunch and desserts, all made fresh daily. 828 First Street, Benicia, 707.746.5293 camelliatearoom.com LITTLE THAI Pad Thai, savory soups and fresh, inventive salads and curry dishes along with other Thai favorites, served in a casual atmosphere. 870 Southampton Road Benicia, 707.747.9777 LUCCA BAR & GRILL The warm, urban décor with a friendly atmosphere lures diners in, and they are not disappointed. Small bites, lunch and dinner are served in the dining room, bar and street-side tables. 439 First Street, #102, Benicia, 707.745.0943 luccabar.com 26 • Benicia Magazine Restaurant Guide
MATSURI SUSHI Favorite standby fresh Nigiri, sushi rolls and tempura are available along with specialty rolls, salads and sake. Lunch & Dinner. 920 First Street #102, Benicia, 707.747.1585 NINE O SEVEN GRILL Fresh American cuisine with a Mexican flair is served in this upscale café with a heated outdoor patio in the back, or at street-side tables. The fish tacos are legendary. 907 First Street Benicia, 707.745.0505 907grill.com PALERMOS CUCINA ITALIANA Italian specialties at Palermos Cucina Italiana on Columbus Pkwy and Venticellos downtown. Pastas, soup, salads, meats and seafood. Lunch & dinner. 2050 Columbus Pkwy, Benicia, 707.748.1011 palermosbenicia.com ROOKIES SPORTS BAR & GRILL This casual sports bar and full-service, familystyle restaurant serves lunch, bar snacks and dinner. It’s pub-grub meets fine cuisine: salads, sandwiches, burgers and sensational sweet potato fries. Sunday Breakfast. 321 First Street, Benicia, 707.746.7665 rookiesbenicia.com ROSIE’S CAFÉ This sweet little roadside diner serves full breakfast and lunch options of hearty American fare. Try the biscuits & gravy or grits, and the homemade soups and chili. 3001 Bayshore, Benicia, 707.745.1154 cafebenicia.com
THE RELLIK TAVERN Live music and community events keep this upscale tavern hopping. Food offerings, ordered by iPad, include tasty tapas and a huge selection of specialty beers on tap. 726 First Street, Benicia, 707.746.1137 SAILOR JACKS Fine dining at its best with a spectacular view of the Carquinez Strait with terrific breakfast, lunch and dinner options served in a rustic, intimate atmosphere. 123 First Street, Benicia, 707.746.8500 sailor-jacks.com therelliktavern.com SANDOVAL’S MEXICAN FOOD The fun décor and good food make this Benicia institution a local family favorite. Try the shrimp, chicken or steak fajitas; the salsa gets rave reviews. 601 First Street, Benicia, 707.746.7830 THE WORKSHOP This popular take-out spot serves up seriously delicious New Orleans-style dishes. Morning Beignets lead into lunch options of hot sandwiches and fresh made soups and sides. 511 Claverie Way, Benicia 707.7476028 VENTICELLOS Italian specialties at Venticellos downtown and at Palermos Cucina Italiana on Columbus Pkwy. Pastas, soup, salads, meats and seafood. Lunch and dinner; weekend brunch at Venticellos. 911 First Street, Benicia, 707.747.5263 venticellos.com
THE ANNUAL RAINS OF
Yesteryear
By Elizabeth d’Huart, Executive Director, Benicia Historical Museum After the recent December rain, we thought we would use rain as our theme for this issue, and how it used to affect First Street and the Southern Pacific Railroad Depot before they were both raised to their current elevation. The photo was taken in December 1950; the truck is dumping dirt ready to be raked out as a barrier to the flooding. In 1992, the end of First Street from B Street on towards the strait was substantially augmented with landfill and raised to its present level. To the left of the Depot you can still see remnants of A Street, now lying several feet below First Street. In the year 2000, the Depot building was temporarily moved to one side while lengthy pilings were driven and a new foundation installed. The building was then moved back to its present location, and remained empty until 2002, when it became the current location of the Benicia Main Street organization. Along the water’s edge, a number of structures appear to be houses. They are actually
home, gift, jewelry with a dash of fun
Backwards Glance
boats, houseboats (arks) and barges, the majority of which were owned and occupied by Benicia’s fishing fleet. This predominantly Greek (and in other Benicia locales, Portuguese and Italian) fishing community sought out salmon and shad, which were brought to market in Benicia and San Francisco until 1955, when commercial fishing for those varieties was banned due to over-fishing and species depletion. By 1959, this large congregation of anchored vessels presented a variety of health and safety issues and was condemned as a public nuisance. Boats that were not removed were set alight in a controlled burn event—as determined by the Benicia police and fire departments—a sad ending to a colorful era with an unmistakable conservation and stainability message. “To everything there is a season” is the phrase that comes to mind. Our hope this New Year is for plentiful rains and a shower of blessings on all. Happy New Year, Benicia! Photo above left: Benicia Depot today, by Malcolm Slight. Right, Benicia Depot 1950, courtesy Benicia Historical Museum.
Urban Notions
611 First Street • Downtown Benicia
707.853.8159
BeniciaMagazine.com • 27
C a l e n d a r O f E v e n t s — J a n u a r y 2 0 1 5 Photo: Fall in Napa, photo by Jenny Yandell
1/2 Board Games at the Library 6-8:30pm
Fun games for all ages 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343
1/6 First Tuesday Poetry Gathering 6:30-9pm
1/9 Classic Movie Night 6pm
Read or listen to your favorite poetry 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343
Classic movies Doña Benicia room, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343
1/10 Friends of the Library Book Sale 10am-4pm
Benicia Library basement, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343
1/10 BHS Improv Show 6pm
Edna Clyne Room, all ages welcome Hilarious gang of slapstick superheroes 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343
1/10-2/14 Iconic Images of the American West
An exhibit of landscape canvasses by Jenny Yandell Marilyn Citron O’Roark Art Gallery Benicia Public Library 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343
28 • Benicia Magazine Calendar
1/17 Golden Bough in Concert 8pm
Benicia Historical Museum, Stone Hall 2060 Camel Road beniciahistoricalmuseum.org 707.745.5435
1/25 Vallejo Symphony Concert for the Animals 3pm
In partnership with Humane Society of the North Bay Hogan Auditorium, 850 Rosewood Ave., Vallejo Tickets $15-$35 Animals.bpt.me 707.643.4441
1/25 Bunco Night Doors open 6:15pm, Bunco at 7pm
Refreshments and prizes Advance tickets $15, $20 at door Benicia Senior Center 1205 East Second Street beniciavallejo-ca.aauw.net 707.745.0808
1/31 Artist Reception 2-4pm
Jenny Yandell, Iconic Images of the American West Land canvasses exhibit Marilyn Citron O’Roark Art Gallery Benicia Public Library 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343
Scan for more listings
Buchanan I Chun Orthodontics
Orthodontic Specialists
300 Military West, Suite 306 Benicia
707.745.2525
140 Admiral Callaghan Lane, Suite A Vallejo
707.643.1011
discount with this certificate This certificate is redeemable for $500 of orthodontic services and is valid for new patients only. It includes a no-cost initial consultation appointment. No other discounts will apply. Offer expires 8/31/2015
www.mybraces.com February 7, 1-5pm Ages 21 and older Wine and chocolate tastings available at participating downtown merchants.
Stroll First Street with your sweetheart and indulge in an afternoon of decadent chocolates, fine wines, and shopping!
$25 advance/$30 day of event or 2 tickets for $45 advance/$55 day of event includes souvenir wine glass
Tickets available at Benicia Main Street 90 First Street, or online at BeniciaMainStreet.org
707.745.9791
BeniciaMagazine.com • 29
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Best of 2009, 2010, 2011 & 2012
AMERICAN PACIFIC MORTGAGE We are passionate about Homeownership Alan M. Schwartzman Branch Manager
DRE 00681649/01215943 NMLS 238622/1850
ams@advancedmtg.com
Mitchell S. Chernock Sales Manager
DRE 00583404/01215943 NMLS 236204/1850
mitchell@advancedmtg.com • Purchase/Refinance • Conventional, FHA, VA, 203 K Rehab • Reverse Mortgages for Seniors • Native American Home Loans
707. 746. 4920 Lic. by Dept. of Corp. under the CRMLA
615 First Street Benicia, CA 94510
advancedmtg.com
Exceptional Legal and Mediation Services Wills • Trusts • Family Law Estate Planning & Administration Personal Injury • DUI Real Estate • Probate Consumer Law • Business Law
Gizzi & Reep, LLP 940 Adams St., Suite A 707.748.0900
www.SolanoLawGroup.com
Welcome to Tosch Dental
Feel at home—even in the dental chair! Full-service dentistry | In-house lab, ensures perfect fit | Orthodontics | 50% off bleach with exam & cleaning | Relaxed and comfortable environment Proudly serving Benicia families for over 25 years. Ronald J. Tosch, DDS l 118 West K St. 707.745.2130 l www.toschdental.com
BeniciaMagazine.com • 31
Contractor's License # 687979
CREATING SPACES
Receive a $150 gift certificate to Romancing the Home, or a Nourot Vase, with the purchase of a complete kitchen.
Everyone at Affordable was professional, knowledgeable and supportive through the whole kitchen remodel process. Susy was amazing; she designed the perfect kitchen for our needs, visiting the site multiple times before and even after the project was completed to make sure everything was just right and up to our expectations. -David and Annette
AFFORDABLE QUALITY Cabinets and Countertops
Open Mon. - Fri. 9-5 weekends & evenings by appointment
4852 East 2nd Street, Benicia 707-745-2100 aqc@aqchome.com