Porchfest Benicia 2024 was a Resounding Success Celebrating Music, Community, and Connection
Porchfest Benicia 2024, was held on a sun-drenched day in the heart of our historic California town, and it was a runaway success. Drawing thousands of attendees, the event brought together musicians, neighbors, and visitors for an unforgettable celebration of local talent, community spirit, and Benicia’s unique charm.
Porchfest Benicia 2024 embodied everything the festival is meant to represent—unity through music, collaboration across neighborhoods, and a pure expression of grassroots culture. As the last note was played and the crowds slowly filtered out, it became clear that the inaugural Porchfest Benicia solidified the festival’s place as a cornerstone event in Benicia’s cultural calendar.
A stellar Turnout
With perfect weather and widespread anticipation, Porchfest Benicia 2024 attracted over 10,000 music lovers. Residents and businesses of Benicia opened their porches to the public, including visitors from nearby cities like Martinez, Walnut Creek, Fairfield, as well as San Francisco, San Jose and many other places, who came to experience the festival. The streets were buzzing with energy as music lovers of all ages roamed from porch to porch, eager to discover new sounds and support local talent.
The event, which was free to attend, demonstrated how a simple concept—musicians performing on front porches at homes and at businesses throughout downtown—can create an inclusive atmosphere that appeals to everyone, from families to seasoned music fans.
A Diverse and Dynamic Lineup
One of the highlights of Porchfest Benicia 2024 was the variety of musical talent on display. With over 18 local and regional acts spread across porches and businesses throughout the downtown area, festival-goers were treated to an eclectic range of performances. Genres spanned from blues, jazz, and folk to indie rock, pop, and even Latin fusion, ensuring there was something for every musical taste.
Many of our attendees praised the event for its diversity in musical offerings. “I loved how you could walk down the street and hear something completely different at each venue,” said one festival-goer. “It felt like the whole town was alive with music.”
Porches Became Stages, Businesses Became Venues
Part of what made Porchfest Benicia so unique is the way it transformed our town into a rambling open-air concert venue. This year, homeowners and businesses alike proudly offered their spaces for the community to enjoy.
Our downtown businesses saw a significant boost from the event. Restaurants and cafes reported a surge in foot traffic, “Porchfest Benicia is great for business,” said a local café owner. “It brought so many people into town, and they were all so happy—enjoying the music and supporting local shops and restaurants.”
A Celebration of Community Spirit
At its core, Porchfest Benicia is more than just a music festival; it’s a celebration of community. The event’s success can largely be attributed to the amazing Porchfest Committee including: Dalia Nino, Penny Stell, Deb Gibbs and Chris Robinson, Kelly Dillingham, Julia Warner, Christie Sattler, Lionel Largaespada, Jeff Campitelli, Norma Morales Perez, Cooper Mickelson and Genevieve Hand. And to our more than 50 volunteers, including uber-volunteer Terry Baldwin.
As the music fades and our town returns to its usual quiet charm, the memories of Porchfest 2024 linger on—a testament to the power of music, community, and creativity coming together in a perfect harmony. B
n Jean Purnell
Arts Benicia has seen her work: expressive sculptures and puppets hanging from the wall, figures positioned on a wall tablet, or a small diorama set on a pedestal. These are the creations of Francesca Borgatta, a Berkeley based artist who creates characters that tell stories through gestures, dialogue, dance and narrative. Over a career devoted to artmaking, theater, and dance, she has been teaching students and community groups to make and use puppets to tell their own stories and respond to social issues. In the last twenty years, she has been exhibiting her characters in galleries; more recently, she has been experimenting with narrative video using her puppets and sets.
“My figures can be animal, human, or somewhere in between” she states. “I start with a wire or wood armature to build the structure. Then I mold elements of the figure with the glue and add at least one layer of textile, which makes it very strong. I add new elements until one seems ‘wrong,’ then I remove it quickly. This is the point where the character begins to assert itself. I add all types of outer materials, including paint, collage, fur, or other fabric. When the figure is ready, I look for a base or find a way to hang it.” She uses found materials, natural and industrial. “I like how each object comes with a history and creates its own associations.”
About twelve years ago, Borgatta began learning the techniques of videography. “I use my own artwork; my masks, and my puppets are my characters. Video teaches me about placing characters in a landscape, which I see as an image of the interior mind of the character.” She has created about ten films to date. Her prize-winning Spectre's Bride, a film based on a cantata by Antonin Dvorak, can be viewed through her website or YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Hcly3_aHud0&t=24s. Currently, she is working to create figures to tell the story of Dante's Divine Comedy, as a tribute to her father and his Italian heritage.
Born in New York, Borgatta’s parents were artists and teachers. Her mother, Scotch/Irish sculptor Isabel Borgatta, taught her papier maché and ceramics to make masks and puppets, and her father, the Mexican/Italian painter Robert Borgatta, taught her to draw. “I remember making figures out of lumps of clay with my sisters. I liked to use the figures to tell stories.” Modern dance
lessons at the age of five with Jane Dudley introduced her to choreography as a vehicle for storytelling.
She attended summer theater camp after sixth grade and from then on, immersed herself in theater productions. As a teenager she began to experiment with using her own masks and puppets to produce plays. Enrolling at Sarah Lawrence College, she studied with Joseph Chaikan, and designed masks and costumes for theater productions. After two years, however, she joined Peter Schumann's studio at the Bread and Puppet Theater in New York, creating large scale puppets for anti-war demonstrations in New York. “Peter’s ethos was a significant influence, and I still consider him a mentor.”
Shortly afterward, she was introduced to Indian dance traditions through a festival at Wesleyan College. She studied dance with Tanjore Balasaraswati at the Center for World Music for fourteen years, fascinated by the use of improvisation and repeated gestures to communicate narrative. Later, she formed her own dance group, the Drum, Song, and Dance Company, drawing on her contacts from Sarah Lawrence.
Borgatta moved to Berkeley in 1974 at the age of 24 when the Center for World Music started a world music program at Mills College. She met her future husband in Berkeley, sculptor Andrew Werby. She studied theater at San Francisco State and earned an M.A. in Multi-Disciplinary Theater in 1984.
Over the next several decades, Francesca has taught classes and workshops, performed, and fulfilled residency opportunities in many Bay Area schools and organizations. She has presented solo exhibitions of her sculptures and puppets as an Artistin-Residence at St. Vincent de Paul in Oakland, at the Skyline College Gallery in San Bruno, Bridge Art Space in Richmond, the Sidequest Gallery in Oakland, The Reclaimed Room in San Francisco, the Orinda Library, the McCune Rare Book and Art Collection in Vallejo, and the Richmond Art Center.
“All my sculptures are characters that have stories,” she affirms. “My intent is to generate a sense of ecological awareness. I teach people to look more closely at their environment and find their own materials. I believe the experience of making art should be available to everyone.”
To learn more about Francesca Borgatta, visit puppetfigures.com. Her “Dirty Dawg” is on display at Arts Benicia through October 6.
around town | Community
A League of Their Own
"Baseball For All gave me a chance to play baseball."
-Danielle Geoff
n Jeannine Mendoza, Ed.D
In the ‘60s and ‘70s, different slogans celebrated the hard won equality between the sexes. Thanks to the women’s rights movement led by feminists like Gloria Steinem, Betty Friedan and others, women and girls felt empowered and able to say, “You’ve come a long way, baby!” Over the decades, women have taken their place in business, politics, education, policy making and many other areas. So it is surprising to find that in 2024, areas that exclude women and girls still exist.
One area in particular is baseball. Sure, Little League offers great opportunities for both boys and girls, but once middle school starts, the boys get more chances than the girls to participate in organized sports, especially baseball. In fact, adolescent girls are encouraged to take up softball or other sports rather than baseball. Even the renowned tennis champion, Billie Jean King was once a teenage baseball player who was urged to switch to tennis because of the limited prospects for female baseball players.
The organization Baseball For All evolved from the sad statistic that, “…over 100,000 girls play youth baseball, but only over 1,000 girls continue playing high school baseball. To this day, many girls are told to stop playing and switch to a different sport simply because of their gender.” Founded by Justine Siegel, the first woman to coach for an MLB team, this nonprofit is a network and safety net for girls and their parents who want to keep the baseball dream alive for female players into their teenage years and beyond. Their mission statement is to “empower girls to believe in themselves and to keep playing the game they love… we’re here to provide girls with real opportunities to play, coach and lead in this sport.”
Baseball For All is always looking for volunteers who believe in gender equality, and who may wish to coach, work behind the scenes, or even start a local team. Baseball For All has grown to include over 40 states and 5 countries, and is gaining ground every year.
Recently, the City of San Francisco officially dubbed September 12th, 2024, a San Francisco Bay Sox Day in honor of their program’s success at the BFA Nationals 2024, taking 4th place out of 16 teams. In attendance was 9 year old Maybelle Blair, one of the last living players from the All Ameri Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL), in 1943. This World War II era league w in the popular movie, A Leag the story of these pioneers for equality and access professional sports. Maybelle Blair is an but especially to the San Francisco appreciate the struggle that generations of female baseball players had to face to play the age, Maybelle Blair continues advocate for equality in baseb team, coached by women’s basebal Henley, was honored by Mayor Londo September 11th of this year.
Danielle Morrison, “Dani” attended the San Francisco Sox Day with the team, and u gender equity in baseball. After ag League and facing rejection from traveling her parents searched for ways fo sport she loved so much. When a Google search brought them to Baseball for All, they k something special. Dani r opportunities that were denied to appreciatesthatsheisstanding the shoulders of all the female players that have gone before her. Indeed, we all have come, “…a long way, baby!”
See Her Be Her book about women’s baseball around the globe and the proliferation of organizations like Baseball for All, will debut between games 2 and 3 of the World Series this month on MLB Network. Dani and other girl baseball players were interviewed for this documentary.
Bre Ast cAncer AwAreness montH
"By pArticipAting in AwAreness Activities
And supporting reseArcH, we contriBute to A Future wHere BreAst cAncer is no longer A pervAsive tHreAt But A conquerABle cHAllenge."
n Dr. Gethesemane Moss, Ed.D
The world is flooded with pink every October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month takes center stage. This annual campaign began in 1985 and has evolved into a global phenomenon, raising crucial awareness about breast cancer and supporting those affected by it. If a loved one has been through a cancer diagnosis, it's crucial to provide support in terms of understanding, treatment, comfort, and self-care. This can involve offering emotional support, accompanying them to medical appointments, assisting with daily tasks, and encouraging self-care practices. It's important to listen to their needs and aid in whatever way they find most helpful.
Over 200,000 women have been diagnosed with breast cancer in California. Within California, Orange County has the highest number of diagnosed cases of breast cancer in women. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, with approximately 2.3 million new cases diagnosed each year. October serves as an urgent reminder of the importance of early detection, research advancements, and the solidarity of a community united in the fight against this disease. Early detection through mammograms and clinical breast exams is vital, as it significantly increases the chances of successful treatment and survival. Organizations like the American Cancer Society and Susan G. Komen Foundation utilize this month to promote educational campaigns, urging women to schedule their screenings and be proactive about their health.
Additionally, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a time to celebrate survivors and honor those who have lost their lives to the disease. Survivors' stories serve as powerful testimonies of hope and resilience, illustrating the strength required to navigate the challenging journey of breast cancer. These narratives not only inspire but also raise awareness about the diverse experiences and needs of those affected by breast cancer. Household names such as Ruby Dee, Shannen Doherty, Diahann Carroll, and Bette Davis all battled breast cancer. While some have passed away, there are still several known actresses/advocate survivors like Julia Louis-Dreyfus.
The month of October sees numerous fundraising events, from charity walks to galas, all aimed at supporting research initiatives and increasing public knowledge. Community involvement is also a cornerstone of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Businesses, schools, and individuals often participate in various activities, from wearing pink ribbons to organizing local events. These acts of solidarity raise funds and foster a sense of unity and collective action. By coming together, we amplify our voice and resources, driving a more decisive, more effective battle against breast cancer. October serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for awareness, education, and research in the fight against breast cancer. It is a month dedicated to supporting those affected by the disease, honoring survivors, and pushing for continued progress in treatment and prevention.
By participating in awareness activities and supporting research, we contribute to a future where breast cancer is no longer a pervasive threat but a conquerable challenge. For additional information on data, consult with local health departments, such as the Solano County Public Health Department, or organizations like the California Cancer Registry. These sources can provide the most current data and insights into breast cancer prevalence in the county.
Connect with local organizations dedicated to making a difference, such as the Tim & Jeannie Hamann Foundation and the Solano Midnight Sun Breast Cancer Foundation, and with your local communities of residence. You can make a difference. B
SCARY MOVIES HAVE A LONG CINEMATIC HISTORY, WITH LOTS OF LOCAL FRIGHTS
n Pete Crooks
In the long history of cinema, horror movies are every bit as relevant as romantic comedies, exciting epics, or dramatic tearjerkers. Films that frighten have always been effective because they provoke a reaction from viewers, even if that reaction occurs as the audience watches with its eyes covered by shaking fingers.
In the silent era, horror movies such as The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920) and Nosferatu (1922) chilled audiences to the bone, and are still scary to this day. The comedian Patton Oswalt has a hilarious bit about seeing Nosferatu—the original vampire film in which lead actor Max Shreck is rumored to have been an actual bloodsucker—as a child during a Halloween party at his local library. The film was projected onto a sheet taped to a wall, which Oswalt said looked as if the vampire could have stepped out of the film and into the room with the kids. Nightmares and years of therapy ensued.
The 1930s included the Universal Studios horror boom, which made Dracula, Frankenstein and His Monster, The Mummy, The Wolf Man and various combinations thereof into some of the biggest box office stars of the day. Britain’s Hammer Studios continued the tradition in the 1950s and ’60s, while ghost stories like The Innocents and The Haunting became cinematic classics. In the next decade, supernatural thrillers such as Rosemary’s Baby, The Exorcist, and The Omen were smash hits. A television series prequel to Rosemary’s Baby, Apartment 7A will stream on Paramount Plus this season.
More recent features such as The Blair Witch Project and Paranormal Activity, movies produced on shoestring budgets, became huge hits because they provoked the imagination to visit terrible, terrifying places.
"THE BAY AREA AND NORTHERN CALIFORNIA HAVE PROVIDED PLENTY OF LOCATIONS FOR THRILLERS AND HORROR FILMS OVER THE YEARS. AT THE TOP OF THRILL MOUNTAIN IS ALFRED HITCHCOCK’S THE BIRDS, SHOT PRIMARILY IN BODEGA BAY, WITH SCENES FILMED IN SAN FRANCISCO."
The Bay Area and Northern California have provided plenty of locations for thrillers and horror films over the years. At the top of thrill mountain is Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds, shot primarily in Bodega Bay, with scenes filmed in San Francisco. Another Hitchcock classic is Shadow of a Doubt, shot in Santa Rosa, featuring the great Joseph Cotten as a serial killer who comes to stay with the family of his young niece. Hitchcock’s daughter, Patricia, once told me that her father visited Santa Rosa to scout for locations and found a perfect house with cracked paint and an overgrown yard to provide a residence for the serial killer. The family was thrilled to hear that their home was going to be used for the film—so excited, in fact, that they made sure to have the place painted and landscaped in advance of production.
Another San Francisco-based classic is director Phillip Kaufman’s masterful 1978 remake of Invasion of the Body Snatchers, a paranoid movie about alien takeovers of the bodies of friends and neighbors. The final shot with star Donald Sutherland in the park in front of City Hall is permanently tattooed in my memory.
Director John Carpenter followed up his 1978 smash Halloween with The Fog (1980), a fantastic ghost story set along the north bay coastline. Carpenter lived in Marin County at the time, and found fantastic locations to spin his tale. The director returned to the Bay Area for his horror comic Big Trouble in Little China (1986), featuring an underground world filled with mazes and monsters beneath San Francisco.
Santa Cruz has provided locations for two horror classics, starting with the vampire movie The Lost Boys (1987). This movie is a blast and features a packed cast, including Jason Patric and Kiefer Sutherland in early roles as well as Oscar-winner Dianne Wiest. More recently, the wildly talented filmmaker Jordan Peele followed up his Oscar-winning Get Out with the equally impressive Us (2019), a surprising horror gem featuring a knockout performance from actress Lupita Nyong’o.
One of the best big budget book-to-film features of the past thirty years is Interview With the Vampire (1994), which begins and ends in San Francisco and features Tom Cruise as the Vampire Lestat, as well as Brad Pitt and Kirsten Dunst in bloodsucking breakthrough roles. The Bay Area connections continue when one remembers that author Anne Rice lived in Berkeley at one time.
Oakland’s historic Dunsmuir House was the filming location for two 1970s supernatural classics, Burnt Offerings (1976) and Phantasm (1979). The former features silver screen legend Bette Davis and the latter features a psychically-powered spiked silver ball that flies through the air at high speeds before crushing a human skull.
Hopefully, this list of films will inspire some spooky nights this Halloween season. Make sure to check your local library for horror movie DVDs and sign up for a subscription to Kanopy.com, which is free for folks with an active library account. The site is packed with gems, including many mentioned here as well the 2008 Swedish vampire film Let the Right One In, which is an absolute must see. B
" tHe town oF cAmino And tHe surrounding AreA in el dorAdo county, HAve A wide Assortment oF pl Aces to enjoy tHe cHAnge oF seAsons."
n Jeannine Mendoza, Ed.D
Have you been thinking about a quick fall getaway this year? Perhaps someplace that’s not too far away? El Dorado County might just be the perfect choice. Two hours east of Benicia is a treasure trove of interesting things to do, including enjoying fall foliage, wine tasting, visiting historical sights, and exploring the hiking trails of the Sierra Nevada Foothills. Best of all, there’s no need to break the bank, as this destination is an easy car trip east. Read on to find out what excursions await you.
tHe town oF cAmino
And tHe FArms
Located east of Placerville on Highway 50, the community of Camino is home to scores of farms, wineries, and other roadside markets. A group of apple and other fruit and vegetable growers, Christmas tree ranches, flower gardens, wineries, and “you pick” farms have banded together to form Apple Hill Growers, an association that has an app with a directory of all the farms, markets, events, and activities in the area. There is also an online map for visitors to use. The map is also printable if you wish to have a physical map. This website informs potential visitors as to the hours that the businesses are open, their addresses, and the goods and services available. Some, but not all, establishments are pet friendly. Some of these establishments are seasonal, and some are year-round, but all are committed to offering unique dining, drinking, harvesting, marketing and learning experiences for visitors of all ages. Below, find a selection of a few places featured in the Apple Hill Grower website.
FArms, mArkets And rAncHes
24 Carrot Farm, a certified organic farm grows fruits, vegetables, and flowers. They have apple orchards and “you pick” options of flowers, tomatoes, berries, and pumpkins. Rainbow Orchards specializes in stone fruit, pears, walnuts, and persimmons. Prepared food items include corn dogs, fresh pressed cider, and tri-tip barbeque as well. They also have a hay bale hop for the young and young at heart.
Bluestone Meadow features lavender, lavender products and lavender crafts. Bluestone Meadow also has facilities to hold weddings. Additionally, they have kids’ activities including a train, a puppet theater, duck races and giant bubbles.
seAsonAl AttrActions
Several businesses offer seasonal opportunities like pumpkin picking, choose & cut-your-own Christmas tree, and wedding venues. Silverthorn Meadows offers elegant wedding venues and has cut-your-own Christmas trees as well. They also offer “glamping,” a camping luxury option where you sleep in king sized beds while listening to the nearby creek. Beautiful views overlook the woods and waterfall. Indian Rock Tree Farm also offers an opportunity to cut-your-own Christmas tree and/or choose fresh, seasonal wreaths. They also have a wedding and event venue in a beautiful natural setting that features Indigenous American grinding rocks from long ago.
especiAlly For cHildren
Besides having an apple and fruit market and fresh eggs, the Harris Family Farm also offers a picnic area, camping, and specific kids’ activities like scavenger hunts, gem mining, and farm animals. Another farm, Hidden Star Camino, has a bakery, cider bar, blacksmithing, and a large kids’ play area. Additionally, there are life-sized vehicles including a fire truck and airplane for children to play on. There is also a panoramic view to enjoy on the premises. Apple Ridge Farms boasts a hay bale maze for kids to enjoy, as well as face painting, and a nature trail with a pond. They also have gem mining and a pick-your-own pumpkin patch.
The town of Camino and the surrounding area in El Dorado county, have a wide assortment of places to enjoy the change of seasons. We owe it to ourselves during these busy days to take a break from routine, and enjoy what nature has to offer. B
STEVE YOUNG
Mayor Incumbent
steveyoung94510@gmail.com
Steve Young, a lifelong Californian, graduated from UC Berkeley with a BA in 1973 and earned an MA in Urban Policy and Administration from San Francisco State University in 1975. Steve spent nearly 30 years working in local governments in California and Virginia, focusing on affordable housing development, code enforcement, and managing neighborhood improvement programs.
As Director of Community Development for the Sacramento Housing and Redevelopment Agency, he oversaw the conversion of the decommissioned Mather and McClellan Air Force Bases, administered the Community Development Block Grant program, and worked on preserving the delta town of Locke.
Upon returning to California and settling in Benicia, Steve was appointed to the Planning Commission (2012-2016), where he led the effort to defeat the Crude by Rail proposal. In 2016, he was elected to the City Council as Vice Mayor, and in 2020, he was elected Mayor by a 20-point margin over two challengers.
As Mayor, Steve guided the city through the pandemic, organizing vaccination clinics, and implementing strong public health measures. Benicia was the first city in Solano County to adopt masking requirements. He is known for supporting clean local elections and strongly opposing negative campaigns. He has worked to simplify bureaucratic rules that hinder reasonable development by reducing the levels of approvals and fees for property improvements in the Heritage districts and downtown. As the city's financial situation worsened, he led the Council in supporting a three-part path to resiliency: new economic development, reduced city spending through personnel reductions, and new revenue (taxes).
Steve also serves the community through his appointments to several regional boards, including the Solano Transportation Authority (Chair in 2023), Solano County Water Agency, Solano County Transit (SolTrans), Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), and California Council of Governments. As a BAAQMD board member, Mayor Young successfully lobbied for a change in policy returning a portion of Air District penalties to the affected cities, which will help Benicia to address local air quality problems. He also convinced BAAQMD to install and pay for an Air Monitoring station downtown. Steve Young firmly believes that an effective Mayor’s role is to inform and educate the community and by guiding Benicia towards a shared vision of the future. He is dedicating his campaign for reelection to advocating for the passage of the three city ballot measures: Measures F, G, and H., which will continue the progress the City has made to get its financial house in order.
KEVIN PATRICK KIRBY
Mayor
kevinpkirby@msn.com
I am a lifelong Benicia resident, husband, father of 2, and a local youth sports coach. I have decided to run for mayor of Benicia, as I see a lot of opportunity to sustain this beautiful town without overtaxation of residents and small businesses. We need to focus on public safety, infrastructure, and keeping our downtown thriving and safe for everyone, whether you’re a resident, business owner or visiting from out of town. I am committed to running a grassroots campaign that reflects the values and voices of our community. Your support is crucial in helping me share our vision for Benicia. I truly appreciate your support and belief in my mission to create a better Benicia for all its residents. Together, we can make a positive impact and bring about the change we want to see. I promise to be committed to you, and dedicated to change. This isn’t about being a Democrat or a Republican, it’s about being a Benician.
Education and Qualifications: I was born and raised in Benicia, attended St. Dominic’s for 7 years, then Benicia Middle School. I received my Associate’s Degree from Diablo Valley College, after attending Benicia High School, and a few others in Oregon. I have always had a profound love for the City of Benicia, even as a kid. I could not think of a better place for my wife, Heather and I to raise our two children, Rick (10) and Sydney (12). We are heavily involved in Benicia sports and schools, with myself coaching Little League baseball, and Heather taking over as President of the Matthew Turner PTA. My primary focus of running for Mayor is to ensure the safety and overall enjoyment for Benicia’s youth. This starts with making sure we have adequate public safety measures put in place. This includes City Police, Firefighters, a Parks Department, and simply making sure we keep our town safe. I plan on achieving this by helping bring new revenue streams to town and supporting our current, local business, both old and new. Thank you for your consideration.
around town | Community
LIONEL LARGAESPADA
City Council
lionel@votelionel.com
Serving with distinction on the Benicia City Council from 2018 to 2022, Lionel earned widespread respect as the accessible, independent, commonsense voice that tirelessly advocated for the well-being of all residents.
During his tenure on the council, Lionel spearheaded initiatives that enhanced the quality of life in Benicia. He championed increased investments in street maintenance, froze water and wastewater rate increases, providing much-needed relief to residents and businesses, and his unwavering support for historic preservation initiatives safeguarded our city's rich heritage for future generations.
When the pandemic struck, Lionel took action to support Benicia's small businesses and protect the most vulnerable populations in town. He initiated a grant program that provided critical assistance to local businesses, helping them through the pandemic which included additional funds for the Benicia Family Resource Center to assist residents financially. Furthermore, Lionel's advocacy for regulations targeting commercial blight downtown protected our city center, fostering a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
Currently Lionel serves on the boards of the Benicia Chamber of Commerce, Benicia Main Street, and the Benicia Community Action Council.
Prior to his tenure on the City Council, Lionel's passion for community engagement was evident in his leadership roles within various organizations. He served as chairman of the Benicia Economic Development Board, the Advocacy Committee at the Benicia Chamber of Commerce and the Design Committee at Benicia Main Street. His community service included mentoring at the Benicia Middle School, volunteering for the Matthew Turner Elementary Parent Teacher Association and supporting the Kyle Hyland Foundation/Benicia Teen Center.
Lionel, along with his wife Jennifer and their two daughters, Graciela and Viviana, have proudly called Benicia home since 2005. His family ties run deep within our community with 19 close family members proudly calling Benicia home.
Lionel is a business development specialist with more than 20 years experience executing large-scale awardwinning marketing campaigns and technical projects for a variety of private and publicly traded companies. Currently, Lionel is the director of marketing and business development for Benicia-based F3 & Associates.
The son of Latino immigrants, and a Bay Area native, Lionel majored in Government and minored in Philosophy at Saint Mary’s College of California and received a Master of Science degree from Boston University majoring in Mass Communications with an emphasis in Advertising… which is where he met Jennifer, and the rest is history, as they say!
FRANZ ROSENTHAL -
City Council franzcitycouncil@gmail.com
Franz Rosenthal is an electrical engineer who works with manufacturing and chemical processing. He is currently an instrumentation principal engineer at Genentech where he is responsible for maintenance and performance improvements in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Rosenthal formerly worked for Valero Energy Corporation where he managed maintenance of crude processing units and other refining equipment. He has also worked for Engineering and energy companies in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, including Exxon Mobile.
TREVOR MACENSKI
City Council Incumbent Macenski4benicia@gmail.com
Trevor Macenski is a native Californian, spending most of his life in the Bay Area. He attended Novato High School and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Policy Analysis and Planning from the University of California, Davis. He then pursued a Master of Science degree in Environmental Policy from The Johns Hopkins University.
When deciding where to live and raise a family in the Bay Area, Trevor and his wife Kim fell in love with Benicia and chose to make it their home. They have three children—Drake, Nash, and Monroe—who all attend local schools and participate in community activities.
Since moving to Benicia, Trevor has been an active and engaged community member, serving in numerous leadership positions on local boards and commissions. These include the Planning Commission, Historic Preservation Design Review Commission, Soltrans Community Advisory Board, and Valero Community Advisory Panel. He is also dedicated to giving back to the community by volunteering as a coach for youth sports and supporting the Matthew Turner Elementary PTA.
In 2020, Trevor was elected to the Benicia City Council, where he served a productive and impactful fouryear term. During his tenure, he guided the community out of the COVID-19 pandemic, helped develop and pass fiscal policies for the first time in Benicia’s history, restructured city departments to save the community money, and implemented the city’s largest investment in infrastructure in the last three decades. His colleagues on the City Council, along with residents and local business owners, recognized his exceptional work ethic and thorough preparation. His leadership and commitment to Benicia have made a significant and positive impact on the community.
CHRISTINA GILPIN-HAYES
City Council
GilpinChristinaM@gmail.com
I am running for City Council to ensure our town thrives while preserving the qualities that make Benicia special.
As your councilperson, my primary focus will be addressing the city’s budget crisis by exploring creative ways to generate revenue and cut costs while maintaining services.
I aim to foster growth opportunities that balance housing needs, economic sustainability while preserving our community’s character. Additionally, I will promote transparency in city government decisionmaking, encouraging community involvement at every level.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Business Communication and Organizational Behavior. Professionally, I have had a long career in corporate law as a paralegal, paralegal manager, financial services vice president, and currently, as a legal technology innovation leader. With a history of community organizing and political activism, I will bring my consolidated experience to the City Council in Benicia.
I lead with structure and empathy, believing that change comes from collaborative efforts. We must meet the needs of our residents today while building an infrastructure that safeguards Benicia for future generations. Overcoming challenges often requires a fresh perspective and new voice and I will bring that to Benicia City Council.
Mo M -nificent FaM ily Spotlight! activitieS F or Fall and h alloween tip S
n Contributed by Benicia Mom's Group
l eaf g hoStS
What a fun combination of a fall and Halloween craft! This is a must-try leaf craft this season. Making ghosts out of leaves is REALLY easy, and they turn out so cool.
Materials you need leaves
acrylic paint
black Sharpie
white chalk marker
Set-up
Head outside and have the kids pick some leaves! We chose to pick maple leaves because they are big and look more like ghosts, but you can use any sort of leaf for this project.
p u M pkin patcheS
LOCAL
ABC Tree Farms (American Canyon)
G&M Farms (Livermore)
Activity
1. Have the kids paint the leaves using acrylic paint! We used white, orange, black, and purple for the Halloween colors.
2. Let the leaves dry! This will take about 20 minutes.
3. Then, the kids will use a black marker to create the ghost’s face. If you decide to make a black leaf, they will use a white chalk marker to make a face!
4. You can even create décor using these leaves by using a hole puncher to punch a hole at the top of the leaves and string a string through it. Hang it up on the mantel!
*Visit the online article for further details and links. B
For M e M berS hip inquirieS , plea S e vi S it www.beniciaMoMSgroup.coM
n Cooper Mickelson
“Even the word itself, human, means flawed. It means everything is technically correct but some unanticipated trouble has fouled it up. If the assignment had been to be human, to fail, then I succeeded. But if it was to create a comprehensive document of life on Earth, I was always doomed. Language is pitiable when weighed against experience.”
Beautyland
by Marie-Helene Bertino
a delicate balance between dark, introspective themes and a whimsical, otherworldly charm that pulls you out of the mundane and into a space of self-reflection and wonder.
Feeling like an outsider in our own world is something many of us can relate to. As life becomes increasingly complex, that sense of alienation often deepens. Yet, every so often, a piece of art emerges that makes us feel seen and understood. Beautyland by Marie-Helene Bertino is one such work.
Adina Giorno is born the exact moment Voyager 1 is launched into space, and from the very start, she feels out of place. A tiny, jaundiced baby born to a single mother in Philadelphia, Adina reaches for warmth wherever she can find it. When she is four, after a traumatic incident of domestic violence, Adina is “activated,” unlocking memories of a distant planet. Desperate to reconnect with the extraterrestrial family she
believes is out there, she begins sending messages to them through a broken fax machine salvaged from the trash.
For years, Adina documents her observations of human life, sending them to her cosmic relatives. At first, her messages brim with wonder and curiosity, but over time, they evolve into expressions of frustration and confusion. As a teenager, after being chastised by a beauty store clerk for testing perfumes with her mother, she writes, “Human beings don’t like when other humans seem happy.” Her superiors in space respond with perplexity, to which she retorts, “If when I explain human behavior you insist on logic, we won’t get far.”
Throughout her life, Adina faces rejection, heartbreak, and the persistent ache of not quite fitting in. She moves to the city, forms friendships, falls in love, yet always clings to the hope that her extraterrestrial family will come for her one day and take her home.
While you may not be a child sent from space to study humanity, there’s much in Adina’s journey that will resonate. Her awkwardness in puberty, her struggles to connect with her peers, and her sense of being different will strike a chord with many readers. Beautyland strikes
This is a story that speaks to anyone who has ever felt out of place, celebrating our individual quirks and the complex, sometimes contradictory nature of being human. For the perfect cozy read, grab a copy from Bookshop Benicia or check it out from your local library.
Booktails' Cockatil of the Month
Ingredients
1 c. Tonic Water (frozen into ice cubes, then crushed)
1.5 oz. Ginger syrup
3 oz. Lime Juice
Tonic Water or Club Soda
3 oz. Empress gin (or butterfly pea flower extract and NA gin)
Preparation
1. Fill a Moscow mule glass with crushed tonic water ice.
2. Pour the ginger syrup and lime juice over the ice.
3. Pour in the Empress gin and top with tonic water or club soda.
4. This drink glows under black light, making it the perfect, out-of-thisworld Halloween party cocktail! B
Book and Cock tail Club
Fall Libations
n Gourmet Gracie
Here are a couple of tried-and-true recipes from Gracie's Recipe Vault to warm us up as the days grow shorter. Treat yourself to some tastiness.
Cafe Brûlot
This special recipe is adapted from the famous Antoine's Restaurant in New Orleans. It was developed by the owner's son in the 1800s. Originally called Cafe Brulot Diabolique, or "devilishly burned coffee," it reflects the Carnivale spirit of The Big Easy.
In a heatproof 4-quart heavy saucepan, simmer 1/3 cup orange curaçao liqueur, 1/4 cup brandy, 10 whole cloves, 3 cinnamon sticks, 1 orange (quartered), and the peel of 1 lemon over medium high heat. When hot, turn off heat. Carefully ignite/flame mixture with a long handled lighter. Stir until the flames subside. Resume heat, stir in 3 cups of very strong hot coffee and 3 - 5 tablespoons sugar to taste. Strain into glass mugs or demitasse cups. Garnish with whipped cream and orange zest if desired. Perfect as an after-dinner drink. May substitute decaffeinated coffee. Serves 4 - 6. Lovely!
Homemade Hot Chocolate
In a medium sized saucepan, whisk together 1/4 cup white sugar and 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir in 2 cups whole milk, 2 cups half and half, 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Place over medium heat and stir constantly until bubbles form around the edges. Be sure the mixture is hot, and chocolate is fully melted. Ladle into cups and top with your choice of whipped cream, shaved chocolate, marshmallows, crushed peppermint or whatever your heart desires. Serves 4. Enjoy! B
12 Mighty Orphans
Sports/Historical drama/Based on a True Story
118 minutes
Rated PG-13 2021
Streaming on YouTube, Hulu, Amazon Prime, Apple TV
n Gourmet Gracie and Movie Magic
In the late 1930s, war hero Rusty Russell (Luke Wilson) leaves a privileged position and moves his family to Fort Worth to coach football and provide instruction to a group of orphans at the Masonic Home and School of Texas. He and his wife teach basic education while exposing the horrors of abuse by the "warden" who uses the orphans' labor for his own profits. With the help of the school's physician (Martin Sheen) Rusty fosters a football team, finds them shoes, uniforms, and equipment, all while inspiring these forgotten children who will become the Mighty Mites. There are multiple heartbreaking setbacks before the team is accepted into the "Interscholastic League." They blitz the Texas Football Circuit and become the classic underdogs—all this during the Depression. Russell leads the scrawny team of only 12 players to the Football State Championship in 1938. Rusty Russell continues his successful coaching career in high school and college football until his death in 1983. His legacy as the greatest coach in Texas lives on.
The star player of the Mighty Mites was Hardy Brown who went on to play for the NFL (San Francisco 49ers, 1951-55) and is still known as one of the toughest men in the game. Brown was marked by the NFL's Top 10 as #5 on "The Most Feared Tacklers of All Time."
This is an inspiring, heartfelt tale of the heroic efforts that changed lives and inspired a nation. Hope triumphs!
Magic Moon gives 12 Mighty Orphans 3 1/2 out of 5 Moons B
october
october
Month of October
Scarecrow Contest
Downtown Benicia, First Street
As people stroll downtown during the month of October they will be greeted by scarecrows fashioned by downtown businesses. The public is invited to vote on their favorites!
October 3, 10, 17 & 24
Benicia Certified Farmers Market First Street, Benicia
4:00-7:00pm
Enjoy farm-fresh produce, baked goods, gourmet food, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and more along First Street. This family-friendly market runs until late October.
october 5
Uncork the Hope Fundraiser
The Chill Late Afternoon
This event, hosted by the Hamann Foundation, features small plates, wine, beer, music, raffles, and more. The proceeds benefit cancer patients, offering support throughout their treatment journey.
october 5
Kyle Hyland Foundation
8th Annual Charity Golf Tournament Blue Rock Springs Golf Course, Vallejo, CA
7:00am-1:00pm
A charity golf tournament to raise funds for mental health support services for teens in the community. Includes 18 holes of golf, a riding cart, and lunch.
october 6
Champagne, Chocolate and Blues Arts Benicia, 1 Commandants Lane 4:00-6:00pm
Enjoy a tasting of sparkling wines and cremants from Terrie Patterson-Boisset Collection, Champagne, Cava, and non-alcoholic sparklers. An array of chocolate delights and a silent auction of gifts. Music by Alvon, Ambassador of the Blues. $40 members/$50 non-members. This event is for 21+. All proceeds go to support Arts Benicia
EVENTS
october 13
5th Annual Family Fall Fest City Park, 150 Military W 12:00-5:00pm
Come join us at City Park for a day filled with fun activities for the whole family. From pumpkin decorating to a pop-up pumpkin patch with Mau & Associates, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss out on the delicious food trucks and live music performances throughout the day.
october 19
Witching Wine Walk
Downtown Benicia, First Street
1:00-5:00pm
Dress up in your spookiest costumes and join fellow "witches" to sample wines and treats at over 35 participating downtown shops. Includes a souvenir glass and up to 15 tastings.
October 24
Jack-O-Lantern Contest and Stories at the Library Benicia Public Library 7:00pm
Join a community pumpkin carving contest followed by Halloweenthemed stories. Fun for all ages!
October 26
Halloween Costume Contest & Sidewalk Stroll
First Street Green 10:00am (Kids Contest) 12:00pm (Canine & Critter Contest)
A family-friendly event where kids and pets dress up and parade down First Street. Prizes for best costumes, with treats and fun activities for participants.
October 26
Moonlight Masquerade: A Spooktacular Fundraising Event
Benicia Clock Tower 8:00pm
A masquerade ball with music, entertainment, and auctions to support local causes. A festive way to celebrate Halloween in style.
October 27
Soroptimist International of Benicia's 19th Annual Bewitching Tea
Benicia Veterans Memorial Hall 1:00-3:00pm
This fun and festive tea event includes a haunted hat contest, spooky table decor competition, a fashion show, and a raffle. Guests can enjoy a traditional tea prepared by Manny's. Proceeds benefit SafeQuest Solano, an organization supporting victims of domestic violence.
