After so many hot, dry days, the weather has finally turned. The days are crisp and the nights are cold, and as the holidays approach, there is an ease in the spirit, a slight relaxation of day to day stress. We invite you to enjoy the moment, enjoy your family and your community. We know we keep saying this, but it’s really important to support your local businesses and this is the perfect time to do so. Draw family close and take care to show love to those we hold dear, find comfort and warmth in our community.
So, yes! Benicia Magazine is 20 years old. We, along with our brilliant staff and contributors, have produced the magazine for the last 4 years and have brought about quite a lot of change while keeping the integrity of the original premise, to be a publication that reflects the wonderful
community of Benicia. It is evident that our magazine and the community it serves have supported each other throughout the seasons. In fallow wintery seasons, the magazine has helped bolster local businesses, while in plentiful seasons, the community has shared their bounty with the magazine, be it with stories, advertising, or Patreon memberships. This symbiosis is beautiful and something that makes us proud to call Benicia our hometown. You can read about the history of this magazine in our 20th Anniversary feature in this issue.
Also in this issue, we invite you to “light up the winter” with several lighted wonderland attractions around the Bay Area – great activities for the holiday season and after!
Prep for the holidays with tips from Benicia Moms Group and benefit from a gift guide for the booklover in your life. Try out some new Bay Area restaurants and pour yourself a nightcap with our special 20th Anniversary cocktail by Bar None. And take time to get outdoors, the mountains are calling and there is so much fun to be had. There’s more to discover in this issue, so, dive in! B
- Mary and Genevieve
Post or send your suggestions & ideas
Saturday, December 14, 10AM
“I Like What I See,”
Artwork by John Tullis at the Benicia Public Library
n Jean Purnell
John Tullis is the upcoming featured artist in an exhibition of paintings and drawings at the Marilyn Citron O’Rourke Art Gallery at the Benicia Public Library. The exhibition is titled “I Like What I See,” and opens on December 10th, closing on January 14th. A public reception will be held on Sunday, December 15th, from 3–5pm, for visitors to meet the artist.
“I'm a visual person,” John explained. “If you want to know what something looks like, try to draw it. In the process of drawing it, you really spend time looking at details, instead of relying on your ideas about what things are, or what you think they look like.”
“If you want to know what something looks like, try to draw it. In the process of drawing it, you really spend time looking at details, instead of relying on your ideas about what things are, or what you think they look like.”
Tullis’ exhibition will feature figure drawings, landscape paintings in plein-air style, and paintings based on photographs as sources.
“I'm passionate about figure drawing. My background began with drawing, first as a kid and then on into high school. When you’re that young, your goal is realism, being able to depict something as accurately as possible. I pursued that in high school and college. Today my work is still realistic, but I try to go for a looser form of realism.
I’m attracted to the work of painters like Randall Sexton and Calvin Liang because they create realistic scenes, but not photographic.
still has a large collection of road maps. He studied graphic design at Long Beach City College and continued studies in art and graphic design at California State University, Long Beach, where he graduated in 1972.
Tullis worked in an LA studio doing graphic design for a year before moving to the Bay Area where he eventually joined the Independent Printing Company, in Richmond. He followed the company when it relocated 20 years later to Martinez, and over several decades with Independent, Tullis engaged in book design, proofreading, production management, business management, estimating, and sales.
After putting aside his active artwork for almost 30 years, he picked up his paints again at the age of 55, after meeting plein air painter Nancy Roberts, of Oakley. He considers her a mentor and switched to oil painting at her suggestion. Tullis painted with Nancy, Peter McNeill, Sal Valencia, Leslie Wilson, and many others as part of her group. A year later, in 2008, he joined a life drawing group at David Ernst’s studio in Crockett. After the pandemic, John joined a reformed drawing group in Crockett with model Leigh Kidwell.
“I’m also a literary person and I like to have some reference point in a painting: a car, a building, or a person. It makes you ask, ‘What is that person doing?’ I happened to be at Fort Mason, where I noticed two security guards standing by a window with light coming in, throwing their shadows. The image just grabbed me. What are they talking about? Are they friends or is one chastising the other? My goal is to make a painting that’s interesting, that you want to look at again. You may come up with your own story. I put 50% out there and the viewer completes the painting.”
Tullis was born and grew up in the Los Angeles area, the older of two siblings. His father was a craftsman with skills in drafting and cabinetry. John followed after his father in skills and interest in drawing. In 8th grade he began taking drafting classes, learning perspective and lettering. He developed a love of visual things such as drawings and maps, and today he
John is currently a member of the Main Street Arts gallery in Martinez and is a former member of the Blackhawk Gallery in Danville. “I really enjoy Main Street Arts. The gallery sees itself as an entrepreneurial small business. Martinez is in the midst of a kind of renaissance with new businesses opening and more people coming to events such as First Fridays. I like being involved in that.” He has recently sold his longtime home in Antioch and is looking to relocate in the area. In addition to drawing and painting Tullis is an avid writer.
“I have completed two novels based on the film noir genre, set in the ‘40s and ‘50s. It's all about human behavior; about men and women and how they're different.”
“I have completed two novels based on the film noir genre, set in the ‘40s and ‘50s. It's all about human behavior; about men and women and how they're different. Once you create a character and get to know them, they practically write the stories for you.” Tullis is proud to be a native Californian and enjoys hiking, kayaking, and traveling throughout the western United States. While at home, he enjoys listening to the blues, dancing, and spending time with his friends.
For more information, visit https://www.johntullisfinearts. com/ and on Instagram @jaycangram. For library hours visit https://benicialibrary.org / B
The Bill of Rights Day
A Reflection on Inclusion and Progress
n Dr. Gethesemane Moss, Ed.D
Every year, on December 15, the United States observes Bill of Rights Day, commemorating the ratification of the first ten amendments to the Constitution in 1791. These amendments were designed to protect individual liberties and limit governmental power, laying the foundation for American democracy. However, the initial protections enshrined in the Bill of Rights did not extend to all citizens. Women, Black Americans who were free, and those enslaved were excluded. The Bill of Rights, ratified in 1791, was primarily designed with the rights of white male property owners in mind.
James Madison introduced the Bill of Rights in response to calls from anti-Federalists who feared that the new Constitution did not adequately protect individual rights. Ratified on December 15, 1791, these amendments include fundamental protections such as freedom of speech, the right to bear arms, and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. While these rights are celebrated, it is crucial to recognize who was not included in these protections at the time of their ratification.
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, societal norms and legal structures systematically excluded women and Black Americans from the rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. Women were primarily confined to domestic roles and denied the right to vote or participate in political processes. Similarly, Black Americans, particularly those enslaved, faced severe oppression with no legal recognition of their rights.
The language of the Bill of Rights reflects the prevailing attitudes of the time, emphasizing rights primarily for white men.
The language of the Bill of Rights reflects the prevailing attitudes of the time, emphasizing rights primarily for white men. For instance, while the First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech, the implications of that freedom were not extended to women or enslaved people, who faced legal and societal restrictions on their voices and participation
in civic life. The struggle for inclusion continued well into the 19th and 20th centuries. The abolition of slavery through the 13th Amendment in 1865 marked a significant turning point for Black Americans, yet true equality remained elusive. The 14th Amendment, ratified in 1868, aimed to provide citizenship and equal protection under the law, although its enforcement would face significant challenges.
Women's rights also progressed slowly. The Seneca Falls Convention in 1848 marked the beginning of the organized women's suffrage movement, culminating in the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920, which granted women the right to vote. This was a monumental step towards recognizing women's rights as part of the broader framework of individual liberties envisioned in the Bill of Rights.
While the amendments have expanded rights, the journey towards true equality is ongoing.
While the amendments have expanded rights, the journey towards true equality is ongoing. The civil rights movements of the 1960s further challenged systemic racism and discrimination, leading to significant legislative changes such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. These laws aimed to ensure that the rights guaranteed by the Bill of Rights were accessible to all Americans, regardless of race or gender.
Today, Bill of Rights Day serves as a reminder of the foundational principles of liberty and justice, but it also calls for reflection on the journey toward inclusion. It urges us to recognize the historical exclusions and the ongoing efforts to ensure that the rights enshrined in the Constitution truly reflect a diverse and equitable society. As we celebrate Bill of Rights Day, we honor the essential freedoms it guarantees while acknowledging the historical context of its creation. The inclusion of women and Black Americans through subsequent amendments reflects the evolving understanding of democracy and rights in the United States. This day serves as a commemoration and a call to continue advocating for justice, equality, and the protection of all individuals' rights. B
around town | Community
n Mary Hand
Dust off your boots, wax your skis or board, or get those snowshoes ready. In just a few short weeks, the snow will start falling and accumulating in the mountains around the Tahoe Basin, which means one thing – Lake Tahoe Ski Resorts’ opening dates for 2024 are here!
It won’t be long before the snow starts falling in the Sierras. You’ll get that first weather report predicting snow and you will have to gather up your equipment and send yourself down a snow-covered mountain.
Lake Tahoe has everything you need for a winter adrenaline rush. And with 40 feet of snow and 300 days of sun a year, conditions are optimal for your winter skiing or snowboarding trip. There’s world-class ski resorts and acres of backcountry trails, so you can glide down groomed slopes or take a crosscountry tour of the winter woods. Oh, and aprés-ski? Nothing better than sitting around the fire, or in a jacuzzi with a hot beverage. Of course, you could always hit the nightlife too.
If you enjoy winter sports, chances are you’re already making sure your equipment is ready for the season. While your skis are tuned and skates sharpened, there’s another element you need to ensure is ready for the slopes: Your body. Even if you exercise regularly, skiing, snowshoeing and skating challenge your muscles in ways other activities don’t — in part, due to the colder temperatures.
Exercising in the cold decreases your body temperature. Your metabolism increases to warm your core temperature. Your heart and lungs also need to work harder to warm and humidify the dry, cold winter air before it enters your body. The cold can also cause increased muscle tightness and decreased
flexibility. It’s important to warm up before beginning any rigorous outdoor activity to lower the chance of injury, as well as taking time to stretch afterward. And, staying hydrated is key. Winter athletes need to consciously drink more fluids to replace the water that gets lost via respiration. Dehydration is one of the main reasons for reduced performance in the cold.
Depending on the sport, certain muscles may also be used more frequently compared to activities in other seasons. The good news is that most winter sports involve both cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength and muscle endurance — all of which are areas that can be trained prior to the winter season.
As anyone who has spent time skiing or snowboarding can attest, after a long day on the slopes, the body becomes fatigued. And that is when injuries are more likely to occur. Before the winter season, a regular exercise program should include exercises that get the heart pumping while challenging the entire body, such as the stair climber, elliptical or running. As winter nears, adding a cardio workout longer in duration but lower in intensity can help increase endurance.
We have asked our local fitness experts for their recommendations on preparing for winter sports.
Lisa McVeigh—Griffin Fitness
Whether you indulge in winter sports as a general recreational athlete, or as a competitive athlete, most snow sports such as skiing, snowboarding and crosscountry are a full body affair. A multifaceted workout plan that covers the fundamentals can be a game changer and help to optimize movement by improving form. Proper conditioning and strength training can also help reduce the risk of injury. While there are many ways to exercise and prepare for your snow sport, some of the fundamentals to focus on are: Flexibility and Mobility, (think bridges, back extensions, scissor leg stretches), Balance and Stability, (think standing on one leg, progress to an overhead reach, planks, standing and squatting on a Bosu or wobble board). Strength (TRX) back rows, push-ups, low lunges, squats), Power Moves (think plyometrics; vertical hops on to box or Bosu, speed skaters, lateral hops to one foot and hold) and Cardiovascular (think of brisk walking, jogging and throw in some steep hills — anything that gets your heart rate up!). Another consideration, in order to optimize your performance on the slopes and in daily life as well, is to find a local trainer who can provide movement assessments and also specific exercise programming designed for your winter sports goals and beyond.
Griffin Fitness
Cynthia Acosta: NASM, CPT, CES (Corrective Exercise Specialist)
As we approach ski and snowboarding season, we want to make sure that we keep our body prepared for every run on the slopes. Simple things like staying hydrated and keeping your body loose or warmed up in between each run can help prevent injuries to the muscles, ligaments and tendons. Sometimes, these injuries can range from sprain-strains to partial or full tears. All injuries big or small to the ligaments, muscles or tendons can lead to what is called “Negative Effects of Immobilization Deconditioning Syndrome.” The end results of this syndrome lead to weakness, decreases in flexibility and muscle mass, and increases in connective tissue fibrosis (scar tissue) and type I and II muscle atrophy pertaining to the specific area of injury, meaning more time away from the snow. Taking the time stretch, foam roll and hydrate can make all the difference in taking those necessary steps to injury prevention.
DGA Chiropractic & Wellness
Dr. David Arreola, DC
555 1ST St. Suite 204, Benicia 707.361.5362
Genevieve Hand – Pilates
Balance is key to successfully staying up on those skis, boards, and skates. Training your balance a few weeks ahead of your Tahoe trip (and incorporating it into your year-round routine) can help you feel more confident on the slopes and reduce the risk of injury from falls. A good place to start is by training your core: deep stabilizing abdominals, back, and glutes. Target all at once with squats! Be sure to draw your belly in, keep your chest up and spine neutral, stick your booty out, and keep your shoulders back. Begin upright, with your weight in your toes, then shift your weight into your heels as you lower down into the squat, transitioning the weight back into your toes as you rise up. Make sure your knees stay over your toes. To increase the balance challenge, progress to single-leg squats, or stand on a balance disc while you do them!
From the Core Pilates
Nancy Camilli, Owner
Genevieve Hand, Certified Pilates Instructor
560 First Street, Benicia, CA 707.373.9245
Planned opening days at other California mountains for the 2024-25 season:
Mt. Rose - Ski Tahoe
November 08, 2024
Boreal Mountain Resort
November 15, 2024
Heavenly
November 22, 2024
Northstar California
November 22, 2024
Soda Springs
November 22, 2024
Sugar Bowl Resort
November 22, 2024
Palisades Tahoe
November 27, 2024
Sierra-at-Tahoe
November 29, 2024
Kirkwood
December 06, 2024
Tahoe Donner
December 06, 2024
Diamond Peak
December 12, 2024
Donner Ski Ranch
December 21, 2024
Homewood Mountain Resort
December 05, 2025 B
HOLIDAY LIGHTS ILLUMINATE SEASONS GREETINGS
THESE COLORFUL DISPL AYS
SHINE AROUND THE BAY AREA
n Pete Crooks
The calendar year may be coming to an end, but some of the most joyous celebrations still wait to be enjoyed—the tradition of loading the family into the car and driving to a nearby holiday light display in a park, neighborhood, or special venue. Here are some of the area’s favorite lighting displays in Benicia and the East Bay.
BENICIA’S HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING
The Benicia Community Foundation is raising funds for this annual holiday event, the 2024 Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at the foot of First Street. The family-friendly event will include appearances by Santa and the Grinch, food, drink, and goods from various First Street merchants, and musical performances by the VOENA Children’s Choir. The event is free and is scheduled to take place on December 6. For more information, go to beniciacf.org.
BERKELEY’S FOURTH STREET
This street in Berkeley is popular year-round for dining and shopping, but every winter, things take a turn for the brighter. From November 9 through early February, the streets and trees are covered in bright lights, bringing a sense of magic to the area after 5pm. Fourth street hosts lots of holiday events, such as the Dazzling Light Celebration on November 9 from 5–7pm, a free fused glass ornament workshop on December 1 from 1–3pm, and a winter holiday fest and craft party on December 7 from 1–4pm. Find caroling dates, marionette shows, and more information at fourthstreet.com.
HERCULES’ CHRISTMAS IN HERCULES
The Valley Bible Church on Willow Avenue in Hercules came through in the COVID-19 year of 2020, when that viral Grinch shut down everything else. The church hosted a drive-through holiday display, with lights and candy at safe distance stops throughout the parking lot. This year, the church will host An Evening of Christmas on December 10 at 6pm. The event will take up three floors of the church building—activities will include a gift station, hot cocoa bar and a petting zoo. A Christmas concert will take place at 7pm. For information, go to christmasinhercules.com.
LIVERMORE’S HOUSE OF THE DOVE
This Tri-Valley holiday staple has been lighting up the neighborhood at 352 Hillcrest Avenue in Livermore for 41 years. The annual display, which begins with a holiday parade on November 30, comes courtesy of Deacon Dave Rezendes, who adorns his suburban dwelling with tens of thousands of colored lights each holiday season, with a new theme and design each year. The inside of the house is decorated as well—on a visit years ago, I noticed a Christmas tree in a hallway bathroom that was decorated with mini toothbrushes and tubes of Crest. Go to casadelpomba.com for more information.
OAKLAND ZOO’S GLOWFARI
This annual event runs November 8–January 26, and it is definitely worth an evening of family time. The entire Oakland Zoo is decorated with gorgeous animal lanterns, which are lit each evening, making for a delightful stroll throughout the venue. An all-new exhibition will be on display this winter, complete with a trip along the Nile in Egypt, a barnyard animal display, a dinosaur layout, and an Avian Odyssey, featuring winged and feathered friends. Make sure to take the gondola to the top of the zoo; you’ll get spectacular views of the Bay and San Francisco before visiting a special section that’s packed with glowing lanterns. Go to oaklandzoo.org for tickets and more information.
OAKLAND’S LIGHTED YACHT PARADE
A trip to Jack London Square on December 7 will be rewarded with a view of the annual Lighted Yacht Parade in the marina, as well as views of a giant holiday tree. The fun begins at 5:30pm and admission is free. For the parade route and more information, go to lightedyachtparade.com.
OAKLAND’S PICARDI DRIVE
This charming street, lined with storybook-style houses, has kept a holiday tradition every December for the past 100 years or so. Each house is decorated with lights and connected to the display next door, creating a magical feeling and an easy family outing. Visitors can park and take a walk around the block, or just turn the radio to the holiday hits on 96.5 FM (or any of the multiple holiday channels on satellite radio) and take a slow ride up and down Picardy Drive. The street is located in the Mills College neighborhood, between Seminary and 55th Avenue.
VALLEJO’S FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS
The Greater Vallejo Recreation District decorates Children’s Wonderland Park with lights on display Friday–Sunday from December 6–29 from 4–7pm. (The park will not be open on December 24 and 25). Bring the kids to enjoy the lights at this free attraction. For more information, go to gvrd.org.
WALNUT CREEK’S GARDEN OF D’LIGHTS
An annual attraction at Walnut Creek’s famed Ruth Bancroft Garden and Nursery is the Garden of D’Lights, a nighttime display of art installations, colored lights, lasers, and more throughout the historic and expansive dry gardens. Make sure to check the nursery for gifts for the gardener in your family. Garden of D’Lights is on display from November 22–January 11 and tickets should be purchased in advance at ruthbancroftgarden.org. B
20 Years of
Benicia
MAGAZINE A
n Mary Hand
That's right. Benicia Magazine is turning 20 and has produced 230 magazines, to date! The magazine was founded in 2004 when Margaret and Gerald Bowles and Jeanne and Mike Steinman got together at the Steinman home to discuss the idea of creating a monthly magazine. They wanted to create a lifestyle magazine that included things that were important to Benicia residents like schools, education and city activities.
GLIMPSE INTO OUR GROWTH
At first, the magazine was called Inside Benicia and it was a tabloid size publication printed on newsprint. After a few years, the size was changed to regular magazine size and the paper that it was printed on was upgraded. The name was changed to Benicia Magazine, and finally, simply Benicia. During this time Jeanne Steinman was editor and Margaret was art director with her husband Gerald doing much of the photography.
2019
In 2019 the magazine was purchased by Scott and Christina Strawbridge, who owned it for a year. With my background in publishing as well as extensive advertising and marketing experience, the Strawbridges asked me to be editor. I was editor of the magazine in 2019 and Margaret continued as art director. I purchased the magazine in 2020, right in the thick of the pandemic. Good times! My daughter Genevieve came on as editor of the magazine while I assumed the publisher role. Today, we co-own the magazine. Undaunted by the
In 2022 our long-time art director decided it was time to retire and she trained Cooper Mickelson, our current brilliant art director, in all elements of magazine design. With businesses still reeling from the pandemic and printers raising their prices every other month, we had come up with a new business model. We created a hybrid publication by combining a print and digital magazine.
financial distress that faced all businesses, we temporarily reduced ad prices to help Benicia businesses to sustain their advertising. We created a business spotlight to highlight different businesses in Benicia, regardless of whether they were an advertiser or not. We then created a newsletter that was bi-weekly and included current events as well, to help keep Benicians in the loop about what was going on through the pandemic.
Enter Benicia Quarterly, the idea stemming from when I designed Tahoe Quarterly. Benicia Quarterly is a seasonal publication that coincides with the four seasons. The digital magazine is produced eight times a year and includes click through links for each advertiser. We also added social media advertising so our clients could have a complete advertising and marketing plan
You would think that a small town like Benicia would run out of stories to tell, but that is not the case. With the history, art, and overall creativity that is so abundant in this town, as well as more than a few very interesting characters, the story of Benicia is never ending. Oh, we added Porchfest Benicia this year too! It will return September 13, 2025. B
An Anniversary Special An Anniversary Special
n Maura Yates
As it’s the Magazine’s 20th Anniversary, I needed to think of something special for this edition of Bar None. I thought, what better way to celebrate than ask our Publisher, Mary Hand, what her favorite cocktail is. Her answer is a tequila, straight up. It reflects the Mary I have known over the years; strong, diverse, and very straight to the point. Then this got me thinking about martinis and spirits, shaken, over ice. When I think of a dry martini “shaken, not stirred,” it immediately makes my eyes burn and my face twitch. Of course, there’s no judgment coming from my end, except that the term “puts hair on your chest” is no joke. I spent the weekend realizing there are some great tricks to make your “straight up” more approachable.
I call this method...
The Coat and Toss.
Starting off with Mary’s favorite: tequila, straight up.
When I think of a great Blanco, what immediately comes to my mind is citrus. Using fresh citrus is key. Mary’s go-to is lime. I made sure to purchase fresh limes that were not under-ripe (too firm) and gave them a good squeeze. I went with 2 tablespoons and made sure to chill before pouring directly into a chilled glass. Before shaking two shots over ice vigorously, make sure to swirl the lime juice in your glass to coat the inside. When you feel confident in your swirl, feel free to toss the remaining juice in the sink with a flick of the wrist, or feel free to keep. Immediately place the glass back in the fridge for a few moments to help chill down quickly. This will ensure all sides of the glass are coated consistently as you sip away.
Another great way to add citrus to your tequila martini is by using a great citrus based cognac. This works with brown and clear spirits. It opens up your options for creativity to dress up your “straight up” cocktail. Using fresh citrus zest as a garnish can really elevate your cocktail. When testing this out, I coated a section of the rim with lime juice and tapped on a mix of salt and lime zest. This is extra work, but there’s nothing like putting a little extra love into your nightcap after a hard day. You’ll appreciate this and so will your taste buds.
Benicia Magazine has been a staple in our community. Spreading the word of great businesses and history throughout our city. Next time you visit one of our local watering holes, consider raising a glass to toast the Benicia Magazine Team. It has been an absolute pleasure creating and sharing with our beautiful town. Thank you for always reading and can’t wait to share more with this fun media outlet. B
by Nicola Parisi
Benicia
Photo
n Cooper Mickelson
Benicia is full of delicious restaurants and lively bars. From the food, drink, and coffee options on First Street to the hidden treasures in the industrial park and shopping centers, we love showcasing our favorite spots to visiting friends and family during the holiday season. You can browse our online catalog of past food and drink articles for inspiration on where to eat locally this winter, but we wanted to take this opportunity to introduce a few new and exciting spots in some of our neighboring towns. Read on to discover a new martini dive bar, the revival of a beloved restaurant serving cruelty-free soul food, and a fresh location for a long-time Bay Area favorite.
TALLBOY
4210 Telegraph Ave., Oakland
SOULEY VEGAN
610 Main St., Martinez
Calling all martini lovers, hot dog connoisseurs, and mischievous anthropomorphic olives! A brand new, incredibly vibey neighborhood dive bar has opened up in Oakland, and it’s the perfect spot for your next night out. Brought to you by the incredibly kind (and honestly, intimidatingly talented) Den Stephens, Tallboy is a place to unwind and savor life in a space that feels sophisticated while maintaining the inclusivity of a local dive.
Located in the building that used to house my favorite Oakland coffee shop (RIP Hawk & Pony), Tallboy is a vibrant addition to the Temescal neighborhood, sure to make all you Benicia artists feel right at home. With gorgeous tile throughout, ample seating, and a striking horseshoe bar as its centerpiece, you'll leave with a camera roll full of Instagram-worthy shots.
As you might have guessed from their stellar branding—props to Eiselle (Ace) Ty, peep the olive mascot on this page—Tallboy offers some of the best martinis in town, including a non-alcoholic option! Not a martini fan? Don’t worry; beverage director Zach Edwards has expertly curated a menu filled with craft cocktails, shooters, and even boozy slushies.
And you won’t want to drink through that menu without a little nosh. Fortunately, Stephens teamed up with the chefs at Lion Dance Cafe to create a lineup of vegan hot dogs and snacks that pair perfectly with your cocktail of choice.
With a little something for everyone, Tallboy is an excellent spot to bring visiting relatives this holiday season!
Keeping with the vegan theme, a long-time favorite of many Bay Area foodies has finally opened a location in Martinez! Souley Vegan, a Black woman-owned restaurant that got its start in Oakland, is now just a short skip across the bridge and is a must-try for anyone seeking comfort food that’s good for the soul, the body, and the wallet.
Chef and owner Tamearra Dyson has been cooking up delicious vegan dishes since she was 18, and her years of experience shine through in her flawless menu. From the Ain’t Gator Po Boy to the Creole Cheddar Mac, every dish fills you with warmth and appreciation for the hard work Dyson has put into bringing this food to the table.
I highly recommend reading Dyson’s story on the Souley Vegan website for an in-depth look at the restaurant's origins. Her journey wasn’t easy, but Dyson has never given up on her dream, and every bit of her success is well-deserved.
You can experience the joy of Dyson’s cooking by visiting the Martinez location or have Souley Vegan cater your next event!
CHOLITA LINDA
24 Broadway Ln., Walnut Creek (see website for other locations)
Another well-loved restaurant with a new, closerto-home location is Cholita Linda. After serving up tasty Latin American food in Oakland, San Francisco, and Alameda for years, Cholita Linda has officially opened its doors in Walnut Creek!
Fresh and vibrant flavors fill every recipe. Inspired by owner Vanessa Chavez’s Peruvian-born mother, each dish is crafted with love and care. From some of the best fish tacos in the Bay to the addictive papito tofu sandwich, Cholita Linda is worth a few repeat visits to discover your favorite menu item.
Benicia Booktails
A Book for
n Cooper Mickelson
It’s the season for gifting and you can never go wrong with a book, but it can be difficult to shop for readers if they enjoy a different genre than you. I hope this little cheat sheet can give you a little inspiration for your friends, family, or yourself!
Hot Tip: Check their Goodreads or Storygraph, if they have one, to see what they've already read.
For the Nature Lover
Ten Birds That Changed the World by
Stephen Moss
An entertaining and thoughtprovoking deep dive into ten iconic birds that have shaped our modern world.
The Dystopian Obsessed
The Blueprint by
Rae Giana Rashad
A gripping debut novel exploring power imbalances, bodily autonomy, love, and the generational legacy of resilience. A must-read for fans of The Handmaids Tale.
The History Buff
You Dreamed of Empires
By Alvaro Enrigue
A hallucinatory, revelatory, colonial revenge story that reimagines the fall of Tenochtitlan.
Book and Cock tail Club
Gifting Cheat Sheet
Every Buddy
The Spice Reader
Done and Dusted by Lyla
Sage
A Western, contemporary romance novel that’ll leave you blushing. The first in a series.
The Romance Reader
Pickleballers by Ilana Long
A sports romance with lots of laughs and pickleball facts.
The "NonReader"
AKA my husband’s recommendations
Hands of Time: A Watchmaker’s History by Rebecca Struthers
A watchmaker chronicles the invention of time through the centuries-long story of one of mankind’s most profound technological achievements: the watch.
The George RR Martin Fan
The Way of Kings by Brandon
Sanderson
An epic fantasy that follows the intertwined paths of a soldier-turnedslave, a determined young scholar, and a conflicted nobleman as they navigate a world torn by war, ancient mysteries, and mystical forces, each striving to fulfill their role in an unfolding prophecy.
The Teen Reader
Blood at the Root by LaDarrion Williams
A young adult fantasy reminiscent of Harry Potter if Harry went to an HBCU. The first
The Middle Grade Reader
Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston
A breathtakingly beautiful middlegrade fantasy that follows a young girl as she discovers a hidden world of magic and danger where she is determined to find her missing brother and prove her worth despite the many challenges she faces. The first in a series. B
Mom-nificent
Family s potlig Ht!
n Contributed by Benicia Moms Group
Family Winter activities
Holiday l ig Hts Tour
Let everyone put on their jammies, make a jar of hot chocolate to go, and load up the car! Drive around town to see the holiday lights and see what you can discover through Benicia’s neighborhoods (no need to map ahead of time). Turn it into a Scavenger Hunt and look for Santa, Reindeer, Snowflakes, etc.
g ratitude garland
A simple craft where families can DIY paper snowflakes and write things they are grateful for and then string them and/or hang them around the house.
salt doug H Handprint o rnaments
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup salt
• 1/2 cup warm water
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Cookie cutter
(a circle, heart, or star shape works well)
• Straw (for making the hole)
• Acrylic paints and brushes
• Ribbon or twine
Mix flour, salt and water to make dough. Roll out to about 1/4" thick with rolling pin, adding more flour as necessary. Let the kiddos place their hands firmly in the dough and use a cookie cutter or freehand around their print. Use a straw to cut a hole for
hanging. Bake in a 250 degree oven for 2 hours, or until completely hard. Once cooled, paint and decorate., and add your ribbon for hanging. These salt dough ornaments are easy, budgetfriendly, and meaningful. Each year, families can add to their collection and see how those little handprints grow!
Hot cocoa Bar at Home
A cozy and creative way to bring family and friends together.
1. Choose a Cozy Spot
2. Set Up the Hot Cocoa Base (white, dark, or milk cocoa)
3. Add the Toppings (Marshmallows: Mini, flavored, or even large marshmallows for extra fun; Whipped Cream; Chocolate Chips & Shavings; Peppermint Crunch; Cinnamon Sticks; Caramel & Chocolate Syrups; Sprinkles)
4. Include Flavor Mix-Ins (Vanilla Extract; Peppermint Extract; Espresso Powder)
5. Fun Add-Ons (Dipped Spoons; Cookies or Biscotti)
6. Make It a Family Affair Use paper cups and let kids decorate their mugs with with markers and stickers.
You can also turn the hot cocoa bar into a DIY activity by letting everyone build their dream cocoa and vote on the most creative combination. B
tH e B usy moms H oliday c H ecklist
Plan & Budget
Set spending limits and list who’s getting what
Shop Early
Start now and wrap as you go
Order Holiday Cards
Get those printed and ready
Decorate
Involve the kids; play holiday tunes!
Set Up Wrapping Station
Gather paper, tape, and scissors in one spot
Meal Prep
Plan main dishes and bake/freezer stash
Schedule Family Fun
Movie night, light tour, or cookie baking
Self-Care
Book a “me time” break or two
Last-Minute Stock-Up
Fresh groceries and roadtrip snacks
Enjoy the Moments
Aberdeen Cafe
719 Main Street
Martinez, CA 94553
925.228.0100
Aberdeencafeus.com
n Gourmet Gracie
What a discovery in downtown Martinez! A family-owned cafe serving authentic, mouth-watering Hong Kong-style Cantonese Chinese cuisine with a variety of Dim Sum dishes. After more than 15 years in their Fremont location, Aberdeen relocated to Martinez in May of 2022.
Why the name Aberdeen for a Chinese restaurant you ask? Turns out Aberdeen is a region in Hong Kong with a population of 20,000. The harbor village is named in memory of George Hamilton-Gordon, 4th Earl of Aberdeen and former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and has a likeness to its namesake in Scotland. Who knew?
Gracie is crazy about Dim Sum and this place doesn't disappoint. Can anyone say Pork Buns without smiling?! Also, there’s a variety of dumplings, including the fabulous Soup Dumplings! Of course there are egg rolls, fried prawns and the requisite Siu Mai. Try one of the Chow Mein favorites or enjoy the tasty Mongolian Beef or Kung Pao chicken. Steamed egg custards...yes! They offer all kinds of delicious vegetable and vegan selections. Mu Shu pork or prawns, Curry Chicken and tofu dishes, as well. If you're feeling adventurous, try the Chicken Feet in Black Bean Sauce, a menu item that is getting rave reviews!
Service is friendly and welcoming. Featuring reasonable prices and a casual, comfortable setting. Take out is available. Open for lunch and dinner. Closed Mondays. Only 12 minutes and 6 miles from Benicia!
Yes Day
2021 Comedy/Family
86 Minutes - PG
Streaming on Netflix
n Movie Magic
A family movie for all time. This film is heartwarming, hilarious, goofy and a bit slapstick, all while delivering a wholesome message.
We're shown the fun, madcap antics of the two lead characters as they fall in love. Allison (Jennifer Garner) is a free spirit and marries her soulmate Carlos Torres (Edgar Ramirez). They have 3 beautiful children and a predictably hectic household as a result. Parenting can be a struggle, and Allison becomes the overprotective rule maker while her husband is the fun parent. Their kids make a film and write a haiku about their "mean" mother and her frequent "nope on a rope" comment.
After a parent/teacher school consult, an eccentric, overworked school guidance counselor suggests a "yes day," where for 24 hours parents answer "Yes!" to every request the children make. Mom Allison hesitates about this plan but ultimately goes for it with gusto. What follows is a literal roller coaster ride and then an ice cream eating competition, a paintball contest with Kool-Aid-filled water balloons, a trip through the car wash with the windows down and glittery parent makeovers.
This is an entertaining, family-friendly romp with a satisfying ending that leaves us with an open heart. Hugs all around. Parents will relate and kids will find some giggles. You may end up incorporating a Yes Day into your parenting formula!
Directed by Miguel Arteta, Yes Day is based upon the children's book of the same name. Jenna Ortega received critical acclaim for her character Katie Torres, the teenager of the family.
With so many restaurants in our downtown, you can enjoy all your favorites and find many new ones. Share pictures of your meals to info@beniciamainstreet.org for a chance to win $100 Downtown Dollars.
December 6
Holiday Tree Lighting & Downtown Open House First Street 10am-3pm
The Rellik Tavern
https://www.therelliktavern.com/
https://www.luccabar.com/
Empress Theatre
https://empresstheatre.org/ Lucca's Beer Garden
A festive community event featuring live entertainment, costumed carolers, treats, and the lighting of the holiday tree, marking the start of the Christmas season in Downtown Benicia.
December 14
Holiday Parade & Market Parade starts at First and D and end at H Street; Market located along First Street 10am-3pm
A festive parade featuring local marching bands, dancers, and Santa Claus, followed by a market offering handcrafted arts, crafts, gourmet items, and delicious foods.
December 14 & January 11
Friends of the Library Bag of Books Sale Benicia Public Library 10am-4pm
Monthly sale offering a wide selection of books, DVDs, CDs, magazines, puzzles, and audiobooks at bargain prices.
The Red Elvises at The Rellik Tavern
December 14 & 15
Benicia Ballet Theatre presents "The Nutcracker"
Solano Community College Theatre, Fairfield
December 14 at 1pm and 6pm December 15 at 2pm
February 8
Benicia Lions Club Crab Feed
Benicia Historic Clock Tower 1189 Washington Street 6pm
Hosted by the Benicia Lions Club, this event includes an all-you-caneat Dungeness crab dinner, a silent auction, desserts available for purchase, a DJ, and dancing.
February 15
St. Dominic School
Crab Feed
St. Dominic Catholic School 935 East 5th Street
6:30pm
This annual event, organized by the St. Dominic School ParentTeacher Group (PTG), features an all-you-can-eat dinner followed by dancing. Attendees can also participate in auctions and raffles. For ages 21 and over.
Gallery Exhibits
ARTS BENICIA
1 Commandant's Lane
Thursday-Sunday, 1-5pm "Animalia"
October 26 - December 15
A juried exhibition showcasing artists' representations of the animal world, including the place of humans within it.
"Forma Natura: Nature as Source"
January 25 - March 2
A juried exhibition inviting artists to submit works inspired by the natural world, exploring themes such as interconnectedness of species, environmental change, and the beauty of natural forms.
artsbenicia.org
NY2CA
617 First Street
Thursday-Sunday, 12-5pm
Small Works Holiday Boutique
November 21 - December 29
A boutique featuring handmade items from local artists, including textiles, ceramics, fused glass, handcrafted wood boxes, mixed media mandala paintings, monotype prints, and solarplate etchings.
BENICIA PLEIN AIR GALLERY
307 First Street
Thursday-Sunday, 12-5pm
"Deck the Walls"
Starting November 15
A holiday-themed art show where artists donate a portion of their sales to The Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano County.
GALLERY 621
920 First Street, Suite 203
Thursday-Sunday, 12-5pm
Holiday Show
November 7 - January 5
An annual "Small Works-Holiday Show" featuring new works suitable for holiday gifting.
https://gallery621.com/
THE LITTLE ART SHOP
129 First Street, Suite E Daily, 11am-5pm
Winter Wreath Exhibit/Contest
Beginning December 1
An exhibit featuring winter wreaths created by resident artists, with public voting for favorites.
HQ GALLERY
333 First Street, Suite D
Thursday-Sunday, 12-6pm
"Celebration"
October 31 - December 29
An exhibition featuring works by various artists, with a focus on celebratory themes.
www.hqgallery.net
December 7
Voena's "Voice of Silver Bells" Downtown Theatre Fairfield 6-7:30pm
December 15
Golden Gate Symphony's annual performance of "Sing it Yourself Messiah!"
