Benicia Magazine May 2024 Issue

• Better Business Bureau, 25 years

• Voted best heating/cooling company, 17 years

• Voted best of the Bay for 5 years, Kron 4 TV

• Angi’s Super Service Award, 3 years

• Energy Upgrade participating contractor

• Factory-trained installers & techs

• Drug-free environment enforced & maintained

• Better Business Honor Roll, 21 years

• Diamond Certified

• North American Technician Excellence certified

• Bay Area certified green business

• All employees fully background checked

Publisher

Mary Hand

Editor in Chief

Genevieve Hand

Art Director

Cooper Mickelson

Website Specialist

Genevieve Hand

Contributors

Benicia Moms Group

Caitlin Emmett

Mary Hand

Linda Hastings

Nancy Herrera

Alexa Manning

Darrell Mcelvane

Cooper Mickelson

Gethsemane Moss, Ed.D

Kevin Nelson

Jean Purnell

Social Media Specialist

Dalia Nino

Cover Photo

Michael Van Auken

Administrative Support

Alexa Manning

707.980.1563

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

PUBLISHER

The Magic of May

n From the Publisher

We chose to focus on Memorial Day in this issue, partly due to a trip that I took last year at this time to Europe where we visited the beaches of Normandy and learned so much about D-Day. We also visited Flanders Field and the museum dedicated to it. Memorial Day is a day dedicated to those soldiers who died in war. It is fitting and proper to give this day our attention and to take a moment to thank those who gave their lives. The ceremony that takes place at Arlington Cemetery at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is striking in its solemnity and strict ritual, it reminds us of the price of war and of those who stand ready to defend. Unfortunately, Benicia no longer has the ceremony at the old military cemetery, which most of us will remember for its pomp and ceremony, vintage planes flying overhead, the band, the bagpipe, the 21 gun salute, the Boy Scouts and speeches from military dignitaries. It was moving and very well done. I don’t know why it’s no longer happening but I do hope it is brought back.

We have also included the upcoming Harold Bray statue installation which includes a trolley ride up and down First Street and the opportunity to ride Red and White Fleet's historic Harbor Queen. The ferry will run on May 18 and 19 to coincide with the Harold Bray dedication as well as Opening Day on the Straits.

Benicia's renowned Art Weekend is a two-day celebration on Saturday, May 4th, and Sunday, May 5th, 2024. This event promises everyone an exciting experience exploring Benicia’s art scene. Throughout the weekend, 50 Arsenal Art studios and eleven renowned galleries spanning Downtown Benicia will open their doors, showcasing a diverse array of artistic mediums and styles. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, street musicians will be performing at the State Capitol Lawn, St. Paul's Square, and in front of The Tannery Building throughout the two-day event, filling the air with melodic sounds.

The Opening of the Straits this year will be spectacular. Three dance bands, playing at different times of the day and night. People dancing on the grassy greens around the harbor and in the clubhouse, too. Play areas for kids and kid activities, food and drinks are available for all. The highlight of Opening Day is the parade of boats—sailboats, power boats, inflatable boats—and everybody is encouraged to dress their boats up.

We introduce a new column, just in time for Mothers Day. Benicia Moms Group will be contributing information on places to go, activities, arts and crafts and advice on all things mom and kids.

Speaking of Mothers Day, don’t forget to make your reservations for brunch, lunch or dinner at one of our restaurants. If Mom is more adventurous, there are kayak rentals on Napa river, as well as hiking and biking all over Benicia and beyond. I think I might want to go to the beach this year, a picnic sounds good …. Cheers!

n Caitlin Emmett

Nostalgia for decades past has always been a thing, but lately, the pull feels strong—particularly for the ‘90s. I thought it might be the fact that I grew up in this decade, but there’s more to it than that—folks of all ages are longing for what used to be. While this is presenting in fashion trends (‘80s power suiting, mom jeans, cropped pants, and sequined bags, anyone?), another way to get your nostalgic fix is to visit the Blockbuster kiosk on First Street.

Blockbuster, you ask? This is not your typical throwback video rental store, but it’s the next best thing. A refurbished newspaper stand

donated by the Benicia Herald is decked out in those classic blue and yellow hues. It’s free, and there are no rental or late fees—simply grab the old-school flick that catches your eye. You can leave one in its place if you want, but it’s not a requirement. Thomas Brungardt and Tony Bernasconi, creators of our town’s kiosk, are passionate about all things vintage. They shared with me that freeblockbuster.org, which drives this kiosk idea, was started by a former Blockbuster employee. Tony saw one in Virginia and thought the tie-in to their Traveling Museum space, which is located inside Pocket Monkey Vintage, would be more than fitting, both location- and content-wise.

“Our initial idea for the Traveling Museum was to liquidate some of our personal vintage stuff that we’d been collecting for the better part of 20 years, kind of offloading some stuff to not be mini hoarders,” says Bernasconi. “Our slogan is that it’s a museum but it’s all for sale.”

“Plus the kiosk is fairly protected in a safe area that’s well-lit,” Brungardt adds. People can show up 24 hours a day, they can grab a tape and [during open hours] watch it in the Traveling Museum Annex if they want to; some people don’t have VCRs and DVD players anymore. Back in the day when there was a Blockbuster or a Hollywood Video or a mom and pop, I remember reading the summaries and the review, spending more time picking one out than it takes to watch. I especially hope the younger generation can experience that.”

While the inventory inside the kiosk is constantly changing, it fits about four or five dozen DVDs, so you’re sure to find something you like. Brungardt

and Bernasconi have current favorites from the kiosk, which has only been on First Street since April 1st.

“My favorite first exchange that happened was with 28 Days Later, The Zombie Movie,” says Bernasconi. “It’s kind of a famously difficult dvd to find, that was cool to see in there.”

“I’d been looking for Deep Blue Sea for a long time and was thrilled to find it,” Brungardt says. “We say it’s the second best shark attack movie ever made. It’s so bad that it’s good.”

Aside from these and VHS tapes, you might find another gem, such as a donated DVD player, video games, or CDs. No matter what you uncover, you’re getting to participate in and experience something many of us are longing for from days past—or, if Bernasconi is correct, experience something that may become more of a mainstay.

“In the streaming age, there’s definitely something to be said for physical media, We’re about to witness, maybe not the downfall of streaming, but—it’s become kind of like a lamer version of cable ”

“In the streaming age, there’s definitely something to be said for physical media,” he says. “We’re about to witness, maybe not the downfall of streaming, but—it’s become kind of like a lamer version of cable. If you have a movie in mind, you check three places you can watch, and it’s not there. Then you’re like, ‘oh it’s on Paramount+, that’s the one streaming platform I don’t have.’ Then you’re trying to pirate it off your friend, but they’re cracking down on passwords. It’s just crazy. Having your 50 movies on DVD or VHS might make a little comeback. I think the free Blockbuster kiosk is going to contribute to that.”

The free Blockbuster kiosk and the Traveling Museum can be found at 560 1st St. Check them out for yourselves! B

Arthritis AwAreness Month

n Dr. Gethsemane Moss Ed.D.

Did you know that May is not only the month of flowers and sunshine but also the month to raise awareness about arthritis and celebrate women's health? May is recognized as Arthritis Awareness Month and contains National Women's Health Week. It’s a great opportunity to educate ourselves and our loved ones about these important health topics. Over 100 types of arthritis affect people of all ages, races, and genders. Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability in the United States and is more prevalent among women. Some of the symptoms of arthritis may include swelling and stiffness around the joints, making it difficult to walk or partake in various physical activities. Two of the most common forms of arthritis include Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is considered a chronic disease of the joints, such as the knees, hip, and spine, and the result is a loss of cushioning cartilage around the bones. More than 53 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis, out of which 62% are women. According to research, menopause may trigger the onset of osteoarthritis. On the other hand, approximately 1.5 million people in the United States are diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, which causes inflammation in the lining of the joints and can also have an impact on the heart or lungs. It is worth noting that women are three times more likely to be diagnosed with this condition than men.

While the causes of arthritis vary, medical experts have identified that osteoarthritis is caused by the wear and tear of the joints over time due to overuse. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease caused by the body's immune system attacking the body's tissues. Arthritis can be diagnosed through physical examination and extensive blood tests that analyze red and white blood cells. Additional tests and blood work can also be conducted within the body to determine the severity of the disease.

Once diagnosed, the doctor can recommend a treatment plan that may include short-term or long-term relief medication. Arthritis can potentially have long-term side effects that can result in disability. Unfortunately, doctors have indicated that there is no cure. It is possible to manage the symptoms of the disease through a lifestyle change. For instance, incorporating low-impact exercises like swimming and aerobics can help reduce joint damage. Additionally, losing weight can be beneficial, as carrying excess weight can worsen joint damage. It is also essential to follow a healthy meal plan and avoid sugary and alcoholic beverages.

Various famous people like Lucille Ball, Terry Bradshaw, Tatum O'Neal, Paula Abdul, and Kathleen Turner have all struggled with living with rheumatoid arthritis, and some have used their celebrity status to raise awareness about the condition.

Water Aerobics

Light Gardening

Deep Breathing

Relaxation

Meditation

Acupuncture

Following a healthy diet

Maintaining a positive attitude

For more information on arthritis, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. If you believe you have symptoms, schedule an appointment with your physician. B

Memorial Day

n Mary Hand

Memorial Day, which falls on the last Monday in May, honors the men and women who died while serving in the military. This is a solemn occasion and a time to reflect on these American patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice while protecting and defending the country they loved.

Originally called Decoration Day, from the early tradition of decorating graves with flowers, wreaths and flags, Memorial Day is a day for remembrance of those who have died in service to our country. It was first widely observed on May 30, 1868 to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers.

During that first national commemoration at Arlington National Cemetery, 5,000 participants helped to decorate the graves of the more than 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers who were buried there.

This national event galvanized efforts to honor and remember fallen soldiers throughout the United States. In 1873, New York was the first state to designate Memorial Day as a legal holiday.

After World War I, it became an occasion for honoring those who died in all of America’s wars and was then more widely established as a national holiday throughout the United States. Beginning in 1971, the Memorial Day holiday was officially observed on the last Monday in May.

Memorial Day is commemorated at Arlington National Cemetery each year with a ceremony in which a small American flag is placed on each grave. Traditionally, the President or Vice President lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

I have been fascinated by the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington Cemetery for years. It is an intensely

beautiful military ceremony that speaks to the discipline, honor and dedication of the elite “Old Guard” and the epitome of military training. Twenty-four hours a day, soldiers from the “The Old Guard,” the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment, stand watch over the Tomb. The Tomb Guards, also called Sentinels, are chosen for this prestigious and highly selective post only after rigorous training and a demanding series of examinations. The dedication that these young men and women exhibit is astounding in today’s world of instant gratification.

This national holiday may also be the unofficial start of the summer season, but all Americans must take a moment to remember the sacrifice of our valiant military service members, first responders and their families. Memorial Day is a day of both celebration and grief, accounting for the honor of our heroes and reflecting on their tragic loss.

If interested, you can watch PBS coverage of the changing of the guard here.

WEARING MEMORIAL DAY POPPIES

The tradition of wearing red poppies on Memorial Day was inspired by the 1915 poem “In Flanders Fields” by John McCrea. War worker Moina Michael made a personal pledge to always wear red silk poppies as an emblem of “keeping the faith with all who died,” and began a tradition that was adopted in the United States, England, France, Australia and more than 50 other countries. There is an exceptional museum in Ypers, Belgium called In Flanders Field Museum; if you have the opportunity to visit it, you will not regret it.

“We do not know one promise these men made, one pledge they gave, one word they spoke; but we do know they summed up and perfected, by one supreme act, the highest virtues of men and citizens. For love of country they accepted death, and thus resolved all doubts, and made immortal their patriotism and their virtue.”

– James A. Garfield, May 30, 1868, Arlington National Cemetery

In Flanders Fields

BY JOHN MCCRAE

Take

Fiber Artist AKIKO SUZUKI and THE CASE OF MR. F

n Jean Purnell

Not only has artist Akiko Suzuki been exhibiting her award-winning contemporary art quilts and fiber works internationally over the last two decades, but her works express her personal and global concerns and hopes on a variety of issues. Her newest work, The Case of Mr. F, made of fabric, thread, paper, and felt, will be premiered at an exhibition titled Solano Water Stories: Artist Voices, which opens on May 25 at the Temple Art Lofts in Vallejo. The exhibition is a collaboration between Arts Benicia and the Vallejo Center for the Arts. With funds from a California Arts Council grant, Arts Benicia has commissioned artworks by Suzuki and a dozen other artists from throughout Solano County; each work responds to the theme of water conservation and climate mitigation.

“In recent years when warnings about global warming are voiced, we have been rightly concerned about environmental issues, but I feel that we often talk as if humans are separate from the environment,” Suzuki stated. “If you find pollution in the sea, the oceans, or in the Carquinez Strait, should it not also be imagined in our own body?”

In The Case of Mr. F, Suzuki uses a 1980s era X-ray photo, fabric, and thread to depict water flowing through the human body. “The name of the patient in the X-ray photo was F-something, so I titled it The Case of Mr. F." The work will be on display in Vallejo through June 23; afterward, the exhibition will travel to other locations in the county.

Suzuki dreamed of becoming a painter when she entered high school. A creative and musical child, she was born and raised in Osaka, Japan. “My mother wanted to paint herself, so she supported my pursuit of art, but my father was not so welcoming.” She attended Kyoto Art College and studied visual design but interrupted a career to get married and raise two children. Seeking a way to be active in art, she learned the techniques of American patchwork design and taught quilting in her home from 1994 until 2019, before immigrating to the United States. She also discovered how personally centered textiles were to her art practice.

“My mother made a living as an embroidery craftsperson, and my grandmother also made a living by sewing kimonos. I grew up watching women working from morning till night, and textiles were deeply engraved in my mind as a symbol of poverty, rather than art,” she recalled. “However, the thread and needle that have been with me since I was born, the cloth and scissors, the sound of the shifting of the cloth, the needle passing through the cloth and the scissors cutting the thread, the smell of cotton and silk, all the small things that have been with me have made my blood and body. I realized that textiles, rather than painting or sculpture, are the best way to express my inner feelings.”

In addition to water conservation, Akiko’s work responds to the plight of immigrants. This fall, she will exhibit her work at the Crossing Borders: We are All Immigrants exhibitions at the Westbeth Gallery in New York, and at the Nine Eighteen Nine Gallery in North Carolina. The two exhibitions are projects of the Global Art Project, a collective of contemporary artists from around the world that has been active since 2013 and founded by her partner Carl Heyward. “I am evolving an installation that I began at Palazzo Turrisi in Lecce, Italy, in 2023 during a GAP residency. The work addresses recent immigration issues while also incorporating my own perspective as an immigrant.”

Suzuki collects and responds to “frags” in creating her artwork; these are fragments of paper, fabric, canvas, or resources left over by other artists and exchanged through mail or personal connections. “I prefer natural materials and fibers. I get a feeling or idea from them and follow that. I don’t hide the thread in my technique but let it express itself and guide the work.” Suzuki has participated in collaborative work with other GAP members, assembling a 6’ by 32’ “dada quilt” from hundreds of frags collected from the international membership of GAP. The quilt project, conceived of by Heyward, was displayed in 2016 at the San Francisco International Art Festival, and elsewhere.

Heyward and Suzuki met through GAP projects and were married in 2019. They have lived in the Benicia Arsenal for four years and are frequent collaborators in their art. “I like living where I work,” says Akiko, “I can work whenever I get the inspiration.” In addition to continuing her art, Akiko hopes to become more proficient with the English language and get a driver’s license. “That would give me more freedom,” she laughs, as partner Carl smiles.

To learn more about Akiko Suzuki, the Global Art Project, and the exhibition Solano Water Stories: Artist Voices, please visit: https://www.akissart.com/; https:// globartproject.wixsite.com/globalartproject-art; and https://artsbenicia.org/solano-water-stories/. B

it’s PArty ti M e!

str A it

n Kevin Nelson

The terms “yacht” or “yacht club” may convey to some the suggestion of snobby elitism and privilege. Nothing could be further from the truth when it comes to the Benicia Yacht Club. They are a group that loves a party.

Dena Styles includes herself in that description. She is the commodore of the Benicia Yacht Club, its top flag officer, and a longtime resident of Benicia. “Boat people are different,” she told me with equal parts pride and amusement.“What has been said about us is that we’re a drinking club with a boating problem.”

You can find Dena and all her boating problem friends at their clubhouse at 400 East 2nd Street at the Benicia Harbor. While walking me through a tour of their two-story building the other day, she was also talking up what promises to be one of the biggest parties and community events in Benicia this year: Opening Day on the Strait, hosted by the Benicia Yacht Club and Benicia Marina.

the big day occurs sAturday, May 18 fro M

10 A . M . to 10 P. M . At the

yacht club And hArbor.

e verybody is welco M e.

The big day occurs Saturday, May 18 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at the yacht club and harbor.

Everybody is welcome. Dena explained that after a day of enjoying the festivities she and her husband Steve plan to spend the night on their power boat docked in the marina. When they wake up in the morning they’ll have coffee.

You may be able to spot Dena at Opening Day because she will be dressed in her flag officer whites, same as Vice Commodore Brian West, who laughingly says that when club officers all dress in their formal white uniforms it makes them look “like ice cream salesmen.” Brian and his wife Eileen live in Vacaville, but they both regard their 41-foot Meridian berthed at the Benicia Marina as their "second home” because they spend so much time on it happily hiding out from the infernolike summer heat of east county.

The club unofficially appointed Brian as the main spokesperson for Opening Day, and he did a heckuva sales job with me. A confession: For all our years of living in Benicia, my wife and I have never attended the event. After listening to both Brian and Dena sing its virtues, that seems a major error that needs to be corrected.

Three dance bands, playing at different times of the day and night. People dancing, too. On the grassy greens around the harbor and in the clubhouse, too.

Play areas for kids and kid activities. If you’re a parent, these youthful diversions may provide the opportunity for you to sneak off and enjoy the beer tent sponsored by Natalie and Mark Keller, owners of Bruehol Brewing. Natalie Keller is a rear commodore of the club so she may be dressed up like an ice cream salesperson too.

According to Brian, the yacht club has a really talented chef, known as Chef Carlos. He will be cooking that day. The club’s equally talented bartenders, Jeannie and Maya, will be pouring drinks at the upstairs and downstairs bars. It seems to be a stone-cold lock that if you’re in the mood for something to eat and drink on Opening Day, you will not walk away unhappy.

The Red & White Fleet is known for its scenic cruises on San Francisco Bay. It will be offering similar scenic tours of the Carquinez Strait in conjunction with Opening Day. These tours, for a fee, launch from Benicia Harbor and will occur four times a day on both May 18 and 19.

The highlight of Opening Day is the parade of boats. “Sailboats, power boats, inflatable boats, you name it,” said West, “and everybody is encouraged to dress their boats up.” This marine costume party starts around noon. Awards are given for the best-decorated crafts. Still, there’s a deeper meaning to all the frivolity. The boats swing past the First Street Pier toward a special vessel waiting for them. There, a Catholic priest extends blessings to them all—the annual blessing of the fleet to keep all boaters safe.

Penny Stell

Susan Gandy

Melissa Mickelson

Leslie Hall

Sara

Randal Mendoza and Debbie Weiss

JoAnn Boccolini

Terry Baldwin Lesley and David Fong

Juliet Farnsworth

Dennis Dellarocca

Marta Krista Kinney

The Inn at Benicia Bay

Benicia Yacht Club has a membership roll of about 200, not including spouses. Like every organization, it is always looking for new members and if you’re interested in getting involved, there will be lots of people around on Opening Day who will be happy to discuss their boating problems with you. Not sure who to talk to? Look for someone in an ice cream suit.

“You make new friends at the club, you really do,” said Styles. “There’s always a party going on, always places to go. You can feel welcome and you won’t feel weird. Everyone feels like family.”

————

Award-winning author and Benicia Magazine columnist Kevin Nelson now writes a weekly column on Substack. B

n Contributed by Benicia Moms Group

In the heart of our town, lies a vibrant hub of connection, support, and community—The Benicia Moms Group (BMG). For over 20 years, this organization has been dedicated to empowering moms and transforming lives through its wide array of programs and initiatives.

More than just a mom group, BMG embodies the very essence of community spirit, offering companionship, understanding, and solidarity of mothers navigating the beautiful chaos of motherhood.

Benicia Moms Group is hosting a column for Benicia families, it includes family friendly events, kids’ crafts, travel advice and ideas, as well as places to go. This issue includes what’s happening in May.

Benicia restaurants typically outdo themselves on Mother’s Day. From fabulous breakfast goodies at One House Bakery to brunch at Venticellos and Sailor Jack’s to wonderful dinners at Bella Siena, Lucca and the Union Hotel. Want to do something outside? How about a picnic at one of our lovely parks. Want to stay home? Watch a movie together, plant a garden, share a book, or cook together. You can be sure that Mom will be happy with whatever you do.

uP co M ing e vents

May 1

First Wednesday Street Fest Walnut Creek, 5:30-9pm https://walnutcreekdowntown.com/marquee-events/walnutcreek-first-wednesday/

May 4

Lynch Canyon Kite Festival Fairfield, 10am-2pm https://solanolandtrust.org/lynch-canyon-kite-festival

May 11

International Bird Rescue Open House Fairfield, 10:30am-3:30pm https://www.birdrescue.org/get-involved/open-house/

May 14

Tiny Tuesday: Dinosaur Days Walnut Creek at Lindsay Museum, 10am-Noon https://lindsaywildlife.org/events/tiny-tuesday-dinosaur-days/

May 18

Opening Day on the Strait Benicia, 10am-10pm

May 19

Bay Area Butterfly Festival 2024 Vallejo, 10am-5pm

May 25-27

Bay Area Kidfest Vallejo, 10am-5pm Concord, Sat/Sun 10am-6pm & Mon 10am-5pm

n Alexa Manning

loc Al Author g inA PhAM

“Do you remember that day that looked like Armageddon outside?” The sky was orange—full of smoke and ash—and as the world fell apart just on the other side of the window, Gina Pham was working away on her laptop.

Pham is the daughter of Vietnamese immigrants. She tried to do everything she could to make her parents proud. Pham graduated from UC Berkeley in only 2 and a half years, sacrificing her social life to help provide for her family. She immediately began the corporate climb, working in marketing while getting her MBA at night. As life happened she kept grinding. Marriage and two children didn’t slow her down. Even cancer and chemotherapy couldn’t stop her. It wasn’t until the COVID-19 pandemic and the birth of her third child that she finally paused.

“I felt I had no good reason,” she said about the day she turned in her notice. “I didn’t quit to write,” but she quit to be happy. Pham was merely tolerating her life. She loved her kids, husband, and family, but she wanted to love her life, too. The quiet that came with removing Corporate America from her life gave her the space to pursue her life-long love of writing. A Friend for When was published May 2, 2023.

A Friend for When is an office romance rife with the corporate angst that once plagued Pham’s life. Pham’s website states that, “this is a story about the little moments that make the heart palpitate, break, and revive again.”

Pham is no stranger to romance herself. “It’s the classic story of the class-clown and good girl,” she told me about her highschool sweetheart with whom she is going on thirteen years of marriage. “He teased me a lot,” she laughed as she remembered the early days of their relationship.

Pham’s husband and children have been nothing if not supportive of her career change. In fact, her oldest child, Charlotte, was her PR manager for the book’s release at the

ripe-old age of seven. Pham was excited to show her daughter their hard work was successful when A Friend for When made it onto Amazon’s new releases list. “But it’s not the bestseller list, mom,” was Charlotte’s response. She was finally satisfied when the book ranked fifth on a list of Asian-American bestsellers.

Pham’s daughter took over marketing because Pham herself still struggles with the fear of people reading her work. Even through positive feedback on her writing, Pham struggled to find the confidence to promote her book. “It never goes away,” she said, referring to the internal critic that we all know too well. “I think it’s ingrained.”

When I asked how her parents reacted to her career change, Pham said “I don’t remember telling them.” It was a well-kept secret that she was writing a book because it is not a career generally accepted in AsianAmerican culture. “I think it slipped out casually,” she added. To pursue her own happiness instead of a career that will provide for the family goes against everything she was raised to think. “It’s a privilege to think about passion,” Pham explained.

Writing A Friend for When was therapeutic for Pham because of this. In this fictional story, all she had was freedom. No rules to abide by except to tell the story that she wanted to tell. Her experience as an Asian-American did inform her character building—when Pham was growing up, Lucy Liu and Devon Aoki were the only two Asian women in pop culture she had to look up to. Now, she has published a romance novel with Asian-American leads, building the type of representation she wishes she had seen.

My last question gave Pham pause. I wanted to know how she had changed since her novel was published. At first she answered that she’s more confident in her writing, but a week later I received an email; “...Your question about what has changed about me since the book release lingered in my head for a while (no one has asked me that before). I thought about it a lot, and the answer is simple: I'm happier.”

Gina Pham has zeroed in on a plot for her sophomore novel, but has yet to put it on a page. In the meantime, A Friend for When is available for purchase at Bookshop Benicia and can be borrowed from the Benicia Public Library

“Let’s remember to enjoy the mundane, the routine, the ordinary. Love who you want to love…. Love out loud. If you don’t speak it, it doesn’t get a chance to manifest. We are all fighting our own battles, so enjoy the process. Life is short.” — A Friend for When by Gina Pham. B

Gourmet Gracie and Movie Magic

sP ice uP your n ight

Kohinoor i ndi A n c uisine

n Gourmet Gracie

The verdict is in! Kohinoor recently opened in Benicia to rave reviews. According to their website: "Get on a flavor packed journey through the heart of Indian cuisine!" This family-owned restaurant offers a casual dining experience with friendly service. "Kohinoor" is Persian for "Mountain of Light" and also describes one of the largest cut diamonds in the world, weighing 105.6 carats, part of the Crown Jewels of the United Kingdom. The name Kohinoor is said to be full of fortune and good luck. Popular dishes at Kohinoor include Chicken Tikka Kabab, Butter Chicken and Saag (spinach) Paneer. The Naan (Indian bread) is exceptional and is available in several varieties. The Lamb Curry is delicious and, if you're feeling adventurous, there is also Goat Curry—bone-in! French fries and wraps are also on the menu if you prefer the familiar.

Try the fiery heat of the tandoori specialties or reach for the comforting warmth of the aromatic curries. Vegan and vegetarian dishes are plentiful. Indian Chai, Mango Lassi and Rose Milk are among the Indian drink specialties. Wine and beer are also available. Gracie loves that plenty of yogurt and chutney sides are offered as desired—try them with the delicious and crispy Papadum. A taste of India in downtown Benicia is welcome, with authentic dishes that tickle your tastebuds!

Take-out and delivery are available along with a small dine-in area. Open 7 days a week from 12 noon - 9 pm. B

the hundred foot Journey

2014 co M edy- d r AMA-thriller

122 M inutes

rAted P g

Produced by oP r Ah winfrey And ste P hen sP ielberg

n Movie Magic

A battle takes place in a French village between two restaurants that are directly across from each other—100 feet away—a short but fraught trip for the various characters as the plot thickens.

Helen Mirren plays Madame Mallory, owner of Le Saule Pleureur (The Weeping Willow), a pricey and elegant French restaurant graced with a Michelin star. But she's driven and wants more, always more. Highly competitive and snobbish Mme. Mallory comes with sharp angles, biting quips and intimidating glares. She easily resorts to sabotage.

The Kadams, a displaced Indian family, arrive across the street, opening a new eatery, Maison Mumbai, in a town that might not even know what Indian cuisine is. Hassan Kadam, played by Manish Dayal, is an extraordinarily talented and largely self-taught culinary novice. He has unwavering faith in his food and is boisterous and jovial with warm hearted optimism. Om Puri, the famed Indian actor, plays Papa Kadam.

The story is set in the south of France, with lush countryside surrounding the small, bucolic rural village. The excellent writing narrates the clash of two beautiful cultures via their respective culinary grandeur. The food, both Indian and French, is gorgeous and titillating. Hilarity ensues as these two entrepreneurial chefs battle each other for culinary dominance.

Filled with the joy of life and scattered with the inevitable sorrows, it's an enjoyable ride. If you're looking for a feel-good movie with a bit of drama, a bit of romance, laughs along the way, world-class acting and charming surroundings, then settle in for a happy break from the frenzy of the day-to-day. B

n Cooper Mickelson

Many of you may be familiar with the name Percival Everett, a literary virtuoso known for his diverse and daring storytelling. From farcical Westerns to philosophical tracts narrated by four-year-olds, Everett has carved a niche for himself in the literary world with his boundless creativity and incisive wit.

Among his impressive collection of works, Everett has gifted readers with a multitude of treasures, including a children’s story spoofing counting books, retellings of Greek myths, and the savage satire of the publishing industry found in Erasure, which inspired Emmy-winning writer Cord Jefferson's acclaimed feature film American Fiction

Now, Everett presents his latest masterpiece: James, a riveting and longoverdue retelling of a beloved, albeit controversial classic. Released in March 2024, James breathes new life into Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by flipping the narrative on its head.

In this inversion, we see the story unfold through the eyes of the enslaved Jim, now known as James. Everett skillfully reimagines familiar elements from Twain’s tale, infusing them with a fresh perspective highlighting James’s agency, intelligence, and compassion.

The initial part of James stays true to the structure of the classic, but with a significant addition of emotional depth and perspective. Even in the most intense moments, Everett refrains from embellishments, bringing a layer of maturity and a suitably somber tone to his retelling that was notably absent in Twain’s original.

As the narrative progresses, James detours from its source material and assumes ownership of James’s narrative, presenting our protagonist as a brave, wise, perceptive, self-taught individual

with an overwhelming sense of compassion for his fellow humans. Everett doesn’t try to paint James’s journey as an easy one, instead introducing musings on slavery, racism, religion, and the human condition through imagined conversations between James and the characters whose work he has been secretly reading.

What truly sets James apart are the heartfelt conversations between characters, particularly the unexpected revelations that reshape our understanding of Twain’s iconic figures. Through these exchanges, Everett invites readers to reconsider the legacy of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and the true depth of its characters.

In James, Percival Everett once again proves himself a master storyteller, pushing the boundaries of literature and challenging readers to see the world through new eyes. This compelling retelling is a testament to Everett’s unparalleled talent and a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of narrative innovation.

Immersive and brilliantly crafted, James invites us into the previously un-depicted rich interior life of a character from our childhoods. The novel is fast-paced and unputdownable, the perfect book for a long weekend or lazy day at home. Don't worry too much about it if you haven’t read Mark Twain’s classic or think you won’t remember the details. James easily stands on its own. If you’re interested in a comparison, I highly recommend you keep an eye on the YouTube channel JesseOnYoutube. They will be posting a video documenting

“I will be outraged as a matter of course. But my interest is in how these marks that I am scratching on this page can mean anything at all. If they can have meaning, then life can have meaning, then I can have meaning.”

their reread of Mark Twain’s classic followed by their initial read of James by Percival Everett. I’ll be sure to notify you and link the video on my Instagram (@coopsbooktails) when it drops.

Order James by Percival Everett from Bookshop Benicia today, or check the local library for a copy (physical or audio). B

Booktail's Cocktail of the Month

"Choose Your Own Adventure" Dirty Shirley Ingredients

2 oz Vodka or Gin (Seedlip Garden 108 for Spirit Free)

1 oz Unsweetened tart cherry juice or pomegranate juice

1 oz Lime juice or lemon juice

1 oz Lemon lime soda or ginger ale

Maraschino cherries and lime wedges or orange slices for garnish

Preparation

1. Fill a glass with ice and pour the vodka/gin over the ice

2. Pour in the cherry/pomegranate juice, grenadine and lime/lemon juice.

3. Top with lemon lime soda/ginger ale and stir.

Garnish and enjoy!

Book and Cocktail Club

may Events around town | Events

Thursdays

Benicia Farmer's Market

Benicia Main Street 4-8 pm

may 3

First Friday at the Museum MoHB

6:30-9:30 pm

The Real Thang, formerly known as the DrD Band, is a six-piece band that plays Funk, R&B, Rock, and basically anything that will get you going.

may 4

Meet the AuthorJoanna Ho

Benicia Public LibraryDona Benicia Room 2-4 pm

Quintero is the author of several picture books. Come to this event to see her speak and participate in fun activities. Free and open to all ages.

may 4-5

Benicia Art Weekend 2024

Benicia Arsenal

10 am-5 pm

With eleven participating galleries spanning Downtown Benicia and over 50 artists showcasing their talents at the Arsenal Open Studios, art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in a diverse array of artistic expressions.

may 4-18

Spring into Giving

Donate an item to Benicia Main Street for the Benicia Family Resource Center and receive a 10-15% off discount card valid with participating Downtown merchants.

may 11

International Bird Rescue Open House

San Francisco BayDelta Wildlife Center: 4369 Cordelia Rd, Fairfield CA 94534

10:30 am-3:30 pm

Get a glimpse into the day-to-day life of a wildlife center. This familyfriendly event is free and open to the public.

may 17

54th Annual Benicia Chamber Golf Tournament

Blue Rock Springs Golf Club

1 pm

Discover amazing art found in downtown galleries while doing a scavenger hunt. Participants will receive a free “I Love Benicia” bag and be entered in drawing to win $100 in Downtown Dollars.

may 18

International Museum Day Museum of History - Benicia 10 am-4 pm

Come out to both MoHB locations for a day of family programs, kids activities, and everything that makes small museum life wonderful.

may 18

Benicia Yacht Club's Opening Day on the Strait Benicia Yacht Club

10 am-10 pm

may 18

Unveiling Ceremony for Harold Bray Tribute and Indianapolis Veterans Memorial

Eunice Jensen Park, First Street 10-11:30 am

may 18 & 19

Red and White Fleet Cruises

Benicia Marina

11 am, 1:30 pm, 3 pm, 4:30 pm Tickets at redandwhite.com/benicia

may 19

Local Author Signing

Maria McCullough Bookshop Benicia 5:30-6:30 pm

Maria McCullough will be visiting Bookshop Benicia for an author talk and signing! Purchase her book and get it personally signed at this free event.

may 30

Kiwanis Club of Benicia Annual Golf Tournament

Blue Rock Springs Golf Club

You can register today at kiwanisbenicia.org

may 19

Beyond Frames: Presenting Prints

Arts Benicia 11 am-4 pm

Join Ronna and explore some of the ways your prints and paper art can be presented.

may 18-19

Abstracts in Mixed Media with Acrylics

Arts Benicia 10 am-4 pm

Join Pat in this workshop.

Month of May

Various Workshops Happy Life Pottery https://happylifepottery.com/

Music & Entertainment

Tuesdays

Trivia with King Trivia Mare Island Brewing Co. First Street Taphouse 6:30 pm

April 19-May12

Blithe Spirit: A Supernatural Comedy

Historic BDES Hall https://beniciatheatregroup.org/ current-play/ B

https://empresstheatre.org/

https://www.luccabar.com/

https://www.therelliktavern.com/

“This is our second time working with Trevor, and our first time working with Taylor. Both times we have received the best customer service and the cabinets are top of the line quality. The input we received when making decisions really helped make our bathroom not only beautiful but also super functional. We love it!”

— Kim and Branon