Benicia Magazine Summer 2024 Quarterly Issue

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

Alexa Manning

Darrell Mcelvane

Cooper Mickelson

Gethsemane Moss, Ed.D

Kevin Nelson

Jean Purnell

Maura Sullivan

Social Media Specialist

Dalia Nino

Cover Photo

Michael Van Auken

Administrative Support

Karina Escalante

Alexa Manning

Adsales@beniciamagazine.com

707.980.1563,

Benicia Publishing, LLC

Benicia Magazine is published monthly by Benicia Publishing, LLC. Copyright © 2021, all rights reserved. Contents of Benicia Magazine cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed in Benicia Magazine editorial or advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, and may not reflect the opinion of Benicia Magazine’s management or publisher. Benicia Magazine, Downtown Benicia, CA 94510. 707.980.1563, Beniciamagazine.com.

The Hayer House

This luxurious newly renovated, beautiful Victorian mansion, built in 1880 awaits your arrival. It is within 50 yards of the waterfront, restaurants, bars, shopping, and activities. The home boasts 9 Rooms where you can sleep including a game room, breathtaking master retreat, 3 full bathrooms, two half bathrooms, 2 Maytag laundry centers, gourmet kitchen with gorgeous induction range, and much more!

Cover Photo: Michael Van Auken On the Cover:

Model/Musician - Jeff Campitelli

Location - The Hayer House

AROUND TOWN

Penny

Susan

David

Bruehol

Sara

JoAnn Boccolini

Lesley

Dennis Dellarocca

Randal Mendoza

Marta Krista Kinney

The

Summertime! Summer, Summer...

n From the Editor

Summer is here! Its warm weather and long days beckon with the promise of family barbecues, twilight chats around a fire pit with good friends, and a light sunburn from a day well-spent soaking up the sun pool-, lake-, or ocean-side. The kids are out of school, embracing their prize for dutifully fulfilling their annual nine-month obligation to society: nearly three months of blissfully care-free days.

The long days of summer, though they can be grudgingly hot at times, serve to elevate the mood. It’s baked into our DNA: we embrace the sunlight. Perhaps we aren’t so different from our photosynthesizing brethren in that respect. You can awash yourself in sunshine while out playing a pick-up ball game or enjoying a bike ride around town, or simply sipping your morning coffee out on a sun-soaked porch. However, there are some of us who prefer to remain indoors during the heat of summer; seeking out a cool, secluded corner in which to curl up with a good book—preferably near the A/C. Whether you’re a sunworshiper or an A/C-devotee, be sure to check out our list of summer reads to while away the long daylight hours.

I look forward to partaking in a few beloved community events that punctuate summer in our area. From the Waterfront Festival to the ongoing Farmers Market, there is plenty to see, do, and get involved with. How will you make the most of your summer? Will you pack in as much activity as you can, or embrace a more relaxed strategy of seeing where the day takes you? Whatever adventure you choose this summer, be sure to explore what Benicia has to offer. Get outside and try a new walking trail, learn something new at an artist talk at one of our galleries, or maybe try out a new summer sport. In doing so, may you find some days that make you want to squeeze every last drop of daylight from the sky.

n From the Publisher

Really, there’s nothing like it. Once June gloom clears out, we have the most perfect town for summer. June brings Main Streets’ June Wine Walk and outdoor dining at most restaurants. Relax at The Chill or Mare Island Brewery, nosh at Union Hotel, Elviarita’s or Lucca, or any of the many fabulous First Street restaurants. July brings the Torchlight Parade (wave when you see us!) and 4th of July fireworks, followed by the ever popular Waterfront Festival weekend. August brings us the Peddlers Fair with the street full of antiques, art, jewelry, pottery, vintage furniture and all kinds of memorabilia and a lot of people! What else happens in Benicia in the summer? Sports! Starting with Bocce Ball and including tennis, pickleball, water sports, baseball, soccer, walking, biking and hiking. See our article about Benicia sports and outdoor activities. The Moms Group has come up with their list of kid friendly activities and best beaches, really, fun for the whole family. Throughout all of the events, noshing, sipping and wandering, music is everywhere. First Street hosts multiple venues and amazing talent. Lucca, The Rellik—outside at the Retreat is wonderful in the summer—Union Hotel, Mare Island Brewery and Sailor Jack’s all have music happening throughout the summer. The Museum of History Benicia opens its garden and fills it with music and dancing. Indeed, music is woven into the fabric of Benicia. Which brings me to Porchfest. We are very proud to produce Porchfest Benicia. This event will be held on September 21st at various venues in town and multiple vintage home porches. This event has two purposes. One is to engage the entire community in a musical event that promotes Benicia. The other is to invite people from communities in a sixty mile radius of Benicia, show off all that we are, and encourage them to return. This is essentially a community event and a tourism event. We will include on our trolley and parking shuttles, voiceover about the history of Benicia. The maps, both digital and physical will include history and points of interest. We want everyone to see and experience Benicia as the jewel that it is. Sitting at the water's edge, steeped in history and full of delightful shops, art and charming restaurants, all set to music. B

Opening Day Tribute to Rich Freedman Opening Day Tribute to Rich Freedman

n Kevin Nelson

On the phone in early April with an acquaintance of mine who lives in New Hampshire, he informed me that he wouldn’t be able to talk long because that day was Opening Day of the baseball season for the New York Yankees. “I’m the same as I’ve always been, totally into the Yankees,” he said with a laugh, adding that he and his wife were going to watch the game on TV with other members of their family.

Opening Day for him and his family was a celebration, as it was for millions of fans around the country. But coming so soon after the passing of my friend and journalist colleague Rich Freedman, my thoughts drifted in a different direction. Rich’s awful kidney cancer diagnosis came on December 7 of last year; four hard months later death stole him away on March 30, age 67.

Rich and I shared many things in common. One of them was a fondness for baseball. Opening Day for us both signified the promise of spring and the warmer days of summer to come, a brightening of the spirit, a sense of renewal, feelings of optimism and hope.

This is when I started thinking that perhaps one of the reasons for the enduring appeal of Opening Day is the term itself. The language of sports is full of openings. The opening kickoff. The opening drive. The opening serve. Opening Day on the Strait, here in Benicia. Besides sports, there are so many other openings that we experience in life and do any of them convey anything other than the promise of good things to come?

Opening a book. The opening curtain. The box office opens at 11. A gallery opening. Open house for a new home for sale. The opening act. The opening movement of a symphony.

"Rich Freedman was most inspirational people ever known. He was so many because he live life every day as Opening Day."

Open sesame. Open for business. Open door policy. The value of these things, however, is considerably reduced unless they are accompanied by openings of a deeper sort: Open eyes. An open mind. An open, accepting heart.

These last openings, to be honest, I struggle with. I wish I was more open to different points of view, different people. Not so reactive, a better listener, not so quick to judge. I’d much rather have the doors and windows of my life swing fully open, freely and joyfully, although I recognize that what also blows in through those openings are things that hurt, sadnesses and hardships and losses of every description.

was one of the people I've beloved by

he truly did as if it were Day."

If possible I’d love for every day of my life to be Opening Day, an opening day of the spirit. And I would wish the same for you.

Rich Freedman was one of the most inspirational people I’ve ever known. He was beloved by so many because he truly did live life every day as if it were Opening Day. A few weeks before his death, faltering and ill, he still showed up late at night at a church to hand out blankets to the homeless, only one of countless acts of caring and compassion he did for people on a regular, everyday basis.

The expressions of loss and grief on social media among those who knew him, which seemed to be everybody, was overwhelming. A standing room only assembly of more than 500 people showed up at his funeral at Northgate Church in Benicia, followed by another large gathering that same day at a Vallejo community hall. A benefit performance celebrating his life, featuring a stellar lineup of comedians and musicians, drew a packed house at the Empress Theatre in May. Through his writing and producing live events, Rich supported the arts every way possible.

He had an impish sense of humor, loved goofy jokes and dressing up in costumes and having fun. There was an open casket at his funeral and as I said my last goodbyes to him that day, I thought how wonderful it would be if he would jump up and shout, “Fooled ya, everyone! It’s all a big practical joke. It’s me, Rich.”

Godspeed, my friend. May angels sing you to your sleep. B

BeniciaMagazine.com

Photo by Amour Owens Lee

July 27 — 28

Benicia celebrates its picturesque waterfront over two days with live music!

Saturday Wake the Neighbors

People’s

Daily Admission: $15 Adults, $10 Seniors (65+) 12 & under free with paid adult Weekend Pass: $20 Adults

BeSSie Coleman GoeS to FranCe

n Dr. Gethesemane Moss, Ed.D

During the early 1900s, several African Americans went to Paris because it was one of the only places they could go to escape some of the restrictions of prejudice. Jim Crow laws made it challenging for African Americans to pursue education and careers in many fields, including aviation. It was not the same in Paris which led to many accomplished American pilots and aviation professionals.

Bessie Coleman (18921926) was a woman of remarkable determination and resilience who traveled to France to attend aviation school. While Harriet Quimby was the first woman in the United States to secure an aviation license in 1912, Coleman was denied entry from all of the schools she applied to, but she did not let that stop her. Despite facing numerous challenges in the United States, she boldly decided to learn French; this was necessary because the aviation school applications had to be completed in French.

“You’ve never lived u ntil You’ve Flown “

- BeSSie Coleman

“BeSSie Coleman (1892-1926) waS a woman oF remarkaBle determination and reSilienCe...“

Her interest in World War 1 pilots sparked her interest in aviation and in 1920, she was accepted into the Caudron Brothers School of Aviation in Le Crotoy, France. Previously, Coleman was a manicurist and restaurant manager. Despite financial constraints, she pursued her interest in aviation, making history as the first American woman to earn an International pilot's license from the Federation Aeronautique Internationale. She was also the first licensed woman aviator of African and Native American descent. Upon returning to the States, she was honored in an all-black, ground-breaking musical called Shuffle Along.

In 1922, she participated in her first air show in Long Island and continued to perform stunt flying until her death in 1926. Coleman’s eulogy was delivered by activist and journalist Ida B. Wells. In 2006 Bessie Coleman was included in the National Aviation Hall of Fame. B

around town | Community

n Alexa Manning

Every time summer comes back around, it seems everyone rushes to the bookshelf to create a stack of summer reads. Sitting by the pool, warm evenings after the kids go to bed, and lazy days in the air conditioning are all reasons to have new reads on hand. As a bookseller, I am lucky enough to be your Ghost of Publishing Future! Here are some of Summer 2024’s most highly-anticipated reads—a little something for everyone and available to preorder from our friendly neighborhood bookstore, Bookshop Benicia.

Romance

A Novel Love Story by Ashley Poston

Publish Date: June 25, 2024

I got my hands on the Advance Reader’s Copy of this romance and this gentle story of healing is perfect for anyone who has turned to books to escape from life’s obstacles. Magical realism immerses the protagonist— and the reader—in a storybook town which becomes the backdrop of her healing journey… and someone else’s.

Fantasy

The Bright Sword: A Novel of King Arthur by Lev Grossman

Publish Date: July 16, 2024

Camelot has fallen in this twist on the well-known legend. A ragtag team sourced from the dregs at the bottom of the round table’s barrel must join together to restore balance and reignite Camelot. Imperfection guides the narrative that will surely be an exciting voice added to the conversation around Arthurian legend.

Science Fiction

Rakesfall by Vajra Chandrasekera

Publish Date: June 18, 2024

“Some stories take more than one lifetime to tell.” This sci-fi epic traces the reincarnations of Annelid and Leveret as they tumble through time. You, too, can fall through different worlds and lives under the guided hand of Rakefall’s prose and explore what stories can be.

Mystery/Thriller

One of Our Kind by Nicola Yoon

Publish date: June 11, 2024

If you are a fan of Jordan Peele’s films, this thriller is cut from the same cloth. A utopian society for Black Americans isn’t exactly what it seems and the new couple next door are in for a rude awakening. This gothic, psychological thriller is meant to be devoured in one sitting. If you crack it open in the sun, don’t forget your sunscreen or you’ll get burned twice.

Literary Fiction

Bear by Julia Phillips

Publish Date: June 25, 2024

What would you do if a bear knocked on your door? Two sisters, deep in financial woes at the feet of rich vacationers, have to answer. Fear and awe, action and reaction, toe the balance in this mythical novel of sisterly love. The main protagonists are enchantingly easy to root for through a fairytale come to life.

SUMMER READS

Historical Fiction

The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali

Publish Date: July 2, 2024

Friendship, betrayal, and redemption circle the narrative through thirty years of Tehran, Iran. The beauty of Iranian culture comes into full view as the nation, and the book’s characters, come of age. Growing pains are evident, however this historical novel is sure to be an emotional and informative read.

Young Adult

Trespass Against Us by Leon Kemp

Publish Date: July 16, 2024

Horror has slowly taken over the Young Adult age group and Trespass Against Us is a worthy addition. Four friends visit an abandoned school—Dominic House—which was really a religious reform school. Who will make it out? Full of secrets and ghosts, this story is utterly thrilling for teens and adults alike.

Non-Fiction

The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson

Publish Date: April 30, 2024

The five months between Abraham Lincoln’s election and the Civil War are the subject of this History and Politics read. The fluke of Lincoln’s victory through the events of Fort Sumter builds an intricate timeline of mistakes, miscommunications, and rampant egos with ambitions to match. This true account of our nation’s history reads as a thrilling narrative and serves as a timely reminder.

Alexa's Pick

Lady Macbeth by Ava Reid

Publish Date: August 6, 2024

Okay, I’ve already read this one. I am an Ava Reid superfan and have read everything she’s published. This Fantasy is a retelling of Shakespeare’s Macbeth from the Lady’s perspective. Extremely fresh and unique, this novel was a riveting read from cover to cover with a truly original take on one of the most infamous villains of English Literature. B

Bar none

porCH pounder

n

Maura Sullivan

Benicia is a town we call home, but outsiders may mistake it for just a small town without any knowledge of its charms. Once, someone asked me “what country is that in?” while hanging out in San Francisco. True story!

Sometimes I want to gatekeep our little town, but how could I? Benicia is full of history, ghost stories to entice the imagination, beautiful historic homes, antique shops, and fantastic establishments that all have one thing in common: stories.

Stories just don’t happen around a campfire or in a book. Stories keep history alive. I bet if you explored

our little town more and said “hi” to that neighbor that is sitting on their porch, they’ll have a story for you. And, if you’re one of the Benicians lucky enough to enjoy a historical home, pull up a chair and let's make a porch pounder to share!

For those of you new to the term, a porch pounder is a drink that is so good you can sit on the porch and drink it all day. I’m a huge fan of classic cocktails and I couldn’t think of anything better for a hot summer day that will inspire some neighborhood exploring. Though we are in California, I love a good traditional drink and the Kentucky Lemonade is the perfect thing to cool you down.

kentuCk Y lemonade

inGredientS

Ginger beer (I like Fever Tree)

Fresh mint leaves

1 oz Your choice of Bourbon, (My choice: Mile

High Spirits Bourbon)

1 ½ oz Fresh lemon juice

Crushed Ice

½ oz Honey simple syrup

HoneY Simple SYrup

This simple syrup is a game changer and great in any other cocktail you could make for the summer. It can be stored in a mason jar or glass bottle and keeps in the fridge for up to 2 months.

Simply place honey, water and brown sugar into a small pot. Bring to a simmer and stir for 5 minutes.

Place to the side and let cool before using or storing.

½ cup local honey

1 cup water

2 tbs brown sugar

This does not require a mixer and can easily be made into a pitcher.

Over crushed ice in your glass, add bourbon, honey simple syrup, lemon juice and a few mint leaves. Be sure to roll or slap the mint before adding to enhance the mint aromas. Top with your choice of ginger beer and garnish with a lemon slice.

Be sure to invite your neighbors over or explore the town. It’s no fun to keep a good drink—and story—to yourself. B

Mo M -nificent FaM ily Spotlight!

n Contributed by

Benicia Moms Group

The sun is out and summertime is here! We are ready for exploring and adventures galore this summer and have collected our favorite Benicia and beyond activities to share with you. Whether it is outdoor movies, best beaches for kids or summer activities, we have something for you and your kids. Don’t miss the Big Truck Round Up, a favorite of little kiddos and very large kiddos too!

Hosted by the Museum of History Benicia, with firetrucks, garbage trucks, construction trucks, hot dogs, popcorn, well you get the picture. Don’t forget the Torchlight Parade and July 4th fireworks … we’ll see you there!

Fa M ily friendly BeacheS

Mc n earS Beach park – San Rafael, CA

c hicken r anch Beach – Inverness, CA

l inda Mar Beach – Pacifica, CA

c raft of the Month

i ce c halk

Ice Chalk is the perfect kid activity for a hot summer day. Frozen chalk makes a great art, science, and sensory experience all in one.

U pplieS:

Half Cornstarch

Half Water

Food Coloring

Dish Soap

Popsicle or Ice Cube Molds

Upco M ing e ventS

J U ne 13-16

Solano County Fair Vallejo

J U ne 14-J U ly 7

Alameda County Fair Pleasanton

J U ne 15

Big Truck Round Up Benicia, 10am-2pm

J U ne 29

Beaver Festival

Martinez, 10am-3pm

J U ly 3

Torchlight Parade

Benicia, 6:30pm

Starting J U ly 9

Music & Movies in the Park Creekside Park, Walnut Creek

Tuesdays 6-10:30pm

J U ly 27-28

Benicia Waterfront Festival Benicia, 11am-6pm

aUg USt 8-11

Napa Town & Country Fair Napa, Thurs/Fri 2-10pm, Sat/Sun 12-10pm

v i S it the online article F or link S to event detail S and in-depth craft in Str U ction S . B

wHat iS porCHFeSt?

In broadest terms, Porchfest is an annual music festival. Porchfests are held across the United States and in Canada on front porches, storefronts and driveways. Porchfest began in Ithaca, New York, in 2007, and brought musicians and neighborhoods together to celebrate and create a sense of community. There are now over 125 Porchfests across the country.

Porchfest music festivals began as a means for neighbors and local community members to highlight their music on front porches with the idea of promoting the community, music and, ultimately, their town.

This year, Benicia is joining the Porchfest ranks. Why? Benicia is a hub for artists, and we have a wealth of stellar musicians. We also just so happen to have some pretty great porches. Porchfest Benicia will involve vintage homes, as well as businesses and restaurants on First Street. It will be a celebration of just a few of the assets that make Benicia special. And what better way to communicate what Benicia is about than through music?

The music is diverse and will range from country to rock, pop, reggae, blues, jazz, Latin, R&B, folk and many others. The lineup of musicians to take the "stage" on porches and First Street venues will range from local favorites to talent beyond Benicia borders.

Live music will be played from 1-5pm on September 21st from the beautiful porches of between eight and ten vintage homes, in addition to eight First Street locations. Adding to the festivities, local shops will have Porchfest specials and restaurants will have special “To Go” boxes for guests so that festival goers can nosh as they cruise from one porch to another.

Benicia Magazine is proud to be bringing the inaugural Porchfest Benicia to the community. We are taking great care to communicate with the residents, shops and restaurants so

n Mary Hand

Photos by Michael Van Auken

SeptemBer21St

that everyone may benefit from this wonderful day. Off-site parking lots will be available with shuttles to the event. And to add depth and interest to the ride, the story of Benicia will be told by docents from the Museum of History Benicia while guests are en route. A trolly will take visitors up and down First Street with stories about our vintage homes. Maps and schedules will be circulated and surrounding communities will be invited to partake.

Porchfest Benicia is a free event and is open to all. For those who want more out of the experience, VIP tickets will be offered. Stay tuned for more information about Porchfest Benicia as the event draws nearer. For now, save the date, September 21st, and invite family and friends to experience this festival of community, music, and of course, porches with you! B

n Mary Hand

The best way to take advantage of summer is through summer sports, whether you're actually into competition or just want an excuse to get outside and get moving.

The good news: There are plenty of fun sports to play, from relaxing to intense, and beginner to challenging. And plenty of places in Benicia to play! You certainly don't have to be an Olympic athlete to partake — and even if you don't want to play an organized sport, you can still get active, head outside, and take a walk or go for a hike. But if you are ready to embrace your inner athlete, here are a few fun summer sports.

Swimming

Swimming is a great way to get active in the water — especially if you can't stand the idea of sweating it out on land on a scorching summer day. Whether you swim competitively, for exercise, or for fun, summer is the perfect time to do more of it. Head to the James Lemos Swimming pool and dive in.

Baseball & Softball

There's a reason baseball is often referred to as "America's favorite pastime." It's fun — and not just fun to watch. In fact, some might argue it’s far more enjoyable to actually play and be part of the action. There are adult and youth baseball happening at various fields in Benicia. Check the Benicia Parks and Community Services Department for fields and schedules. It’s great summer fun as a player or spectator.

Soccer

Soccer is another high-cardio, highenergy game that is perfect to play outdoors with friends. If you haven't played yet, it's never too late to learn ... and it’s really fun to watch.

Biking

Biking is one of those old-school activities that’s just fun. Summer offers plenty of opportunities to grab your bike and take a leisurely, scenic ride or use your two wheels to get where you need to go while enjoying the weather in the process. We have the State Park and plenty of bike friendly roads and trails in Benicia and some great mountain biking at Rockville regional park in Suisun. Watch for the grand opening of the Vallejo section of the Napa Valley Vine Trail in August. When complete, it will stretch from Vallejo to Calistoga.

Kayaking

Kayaking is another sport for those who love adventure. Kayaking on the straits is fun and sometimes challenging. It’s rumored that there will be kayak and paddleboard rentals in Benicia soon.

Beach Volleyball

Alvarez 9th Street Park is the place for volleyball, with beach sand volleyball courts, turf area and scenic view. Also close to the new Got Plate Lunch location at the old Cliff’s bar and restaurant.

Windsurfing

If you love sailing and surfing, then you'll probably also love windsurfing — the exciting combination of both sports. Benicia has the wind, waves and currents for this fun and challenging sport. Learn how with Delta Windsports or Cal Sailing.

Pickleball

It’s all the rage! A combination of tennis, badminton and ping-pong, this sport is played indoors and out. This sport has grown rapidly in popularity over the last few years, it’s easy(ish)-to-learn, playable by all ages, and accessible. Pickleball locations are: Benicia Tennis & Pickleball Courts on E K st, Benicia Middle School and Benicia Community Center.

Hiking

We have many gorgeous hiking trails. Here are the top 7: Carquinez Strait Trail, SF Bay Trail (Military West and Carquinez Strait Loop), Vallejo-Benicia Buffer Trail, Benicia Community Park Trail, Benicia Marsh loop Trail, Bay Area Ridge-Benicia Shoreline, Benicia State Recreation Area to Carquinez Overlook, Lake Herman, Benicia-Martinez Bridge, McAllister Drive to Lake Herman. For details go to AllTrails.

Summer Olympics

This year, there are even more summer sports to love with the Paris Olympics! The opening ceremonies kick things off on July 24 and the games will conclude on August 11. The City of Light has pulled out all the stops and looks to be ready for its close up. With over a billion people watching, Paris is making sure the event is unforgettable.

There is a new sport for 2024, Breaking, or break-dancing as it is better known… that should be fascinating. Here is the Olympic Schedule as of May 8th.

Whether you’re already signed up to join a summer rec league, or are just getting inspired by the Olympic Games, there are plenty of ways to incorporate activity and sportsmanship into your life this summer. Whatever your preference, be sure to get outside and take advantage of all Benicia has to offer this summer. B

Abstract

“i made tH iS deCiSion one daY, aS i ’m trYinG to SimpliFY mY liFe, wHat Can i let Go oF?i JuSt want to Flow witH eaSY SpontaneouS tH inGS tHat i love.“

n Jean Purnell

Recently relocated to Benicia from Occidental, Johanna Regan has been in the process of letting go. “I made this decision one day, as I’m trying to simplify my life, what can I let go of? I spend too much time worrying about politics and the state of things. The bottom line is it makes me anxious. I just want to flow with easy spontaneous things that I love.” Her favorite things include lingering over a cup of coffee in the morning, traveling to see her two children or friends, and art.

An abstract painter, Regan is preparing for an exhibition of her artwork titled “Blue and Other Stories,” at the Marilyn Citron O’Rourke Gallery at the Benicia Public Library, which opens on June 25 and runs through August 1. A public reception is planned for June 29, from 3 to 5 pm. The exhibition will include a series of large oil and cold wax paintings, created as part of a series.

Regan was born in Pasadena, one of six kids, with four artistic sisters. “We were all hugely influenced by our grandmothers, who were artists in a bohemian way.” She attended an all-girl Catholic school which cemented feelings of self-esteem, trust in female relationships, and the ability to excel. She did not do art as a child. “I was just a social person. I was into my friends.”

reGan

She moved to northern California after a year at City College in Pasadena to attend Sonoma State, where she majored in dance. “I didn’t have a major planned, but I had started dance in Pasadena, and had a lot of friends who danced. I just followed my social connections.”

She left school to move to San Francisco, where she met Peter Ottenweller, and finished her degree at USF. Required to take anatomy and physiology to complete her major, her instructor so influenced her that she shifted her major to Biology. Graduation was followed by degrees in Nursing and Counseling and a career in health practice. She and Peter raised two children, spending the next 29 years in Santa Rosa. He practiced law and later served as a superior court judge in Sonoma County.

“I’ve always had a love of color,” explained Johanna. “We had moved from Santa Rosa to Jenner, and I took a course in Oakland and started doing and teaching mosaics. I loved the options you could choose with colored tile pieces. I opened a gallery in Guerneville called the Blue Door, pretty much to show my friends,” she laughs. “I had ended my career as a hospice nurse, and I remember the day I cut my nursing license in half and buried it in a flowerpot. That was 11 years ago.”

Regan has been painting for about ten years. “I got frustrated with the limitation of tile colors. I wanted to mix my own colors, and create large, colorful works.” She paints with oil and cold wax. The creamy wax is mixed into the paint with a dab of linseed oil; the mixture allows her to build up a visible texture which she smooths onto the canvas with her palette knives. “My biggest thrill as a painter is to say, ‘I want to mix that color.’ I’ve got a color in my mind’s eye. But it never ends up. Composition never ends up. I draw with an oil pastel crayon on my canvas to create the shapes that I want. But it always changes. Now I’m beginning to trust that the composition creates itself as I paint. I’m just a slave,” she chuckles. Once she gets the shapes she wants, she begins to play around with colors, placing a white sheet of paper over sections of the painting, deciding which colors to keep, and which to change. “I gravitate to blue, and I have to pull myself out.”

“My goal is to begin to move into large figurative work. I start out each day by drawing silhouettes of faces, before moving into my painting work. I’m in the studio maybe three or four days each week, for two to three hours. I stand when I work, and I’m tired after that length of time,” she smiles. “I will always paint.”

Peter is only a few months into his retirement, no longer commuting from Benicia to his job. “We had lunch on First Street a few years ago with some friends who had moved to Benicia, and that’s all it took.” They live in a condo overlooking the strait. “I’m so happy it turned out to be Benicia. It couldn’t be a sweeter, more beautiful spot for me.”

For more inFormation aBout

JoHanna reGan, viSit HttpS:// JoHanna-reGan-paintinG.Com/ and HttpS://BeniCialiBrarY. orG/aBout/HourS. B

Downtown Benicia from shop to shop, tasting fine wines for an enjoyable a ernoon to “sip, walk, and shop” with friends.

Ages 21 and older

in advance/2 for $65 in advance

day of event

at Benicia Main Street, 90 First Street, and online at

the Why Behind the B

n Caitlin Emmett

Photos by Michael Van Auken

thi S p U ll

Back on the connection W ith co providing a plat pa SS on their l ove podca

Transactional Love is a podcast that’s fabulously meaningful, which I almost find hard to define—in a great way. It’s based on examining the role that community plays in entrepreneurship. It examines current real trends and explores the “why behind the buy,” and what kind of connection we crave to make when making a purchase. When Benicia resident Norma Perez walked into Wendi Shavon’s flower shop on First Street, she had no idea the bond that would form or that they’d be hosting a podcast together.

“I opened a flower shop in town so I met a lot of the community that way,” says Shavon. “Norma came in and fell in love with me! … she came in a few times, and then we started hanging out outside of this.”

“Yeah, we met through her shop which is what inspired the podcast,” Perez says. “It’s about how small business informs how communities are embodied. I loved not only her but what she was creating in our town ... I found that we loved a lot of the same things around small business. We aligned on how important entrepreneurship is; it’s rooted in what this podcast is all about … I feel like we had a lot of philosophical conversations around economy.”

Benicia residents Perez and Shavon have different backgrounds, though it came as no surprise to me that they each wear many impressive hats. Perez sits on Benicia’s Economic Development Board and works in architecture, real estate development, and brand development; Shavon still owns her flower shop which is now run out of her home, teaches yoga, and is a wine rep. Though these experiences lend well to their podcast’s theme, they’re both all about connecting on a deeper level, which influenced the podcast’s name.

“The name Transactional Love comes from a party that I hosted in the courtyard of my flower shop,” Shavon says. “I invited all of my favorite people. There was chatting, sharing of ideas, and exchanging what makes us all tick … I made sure to have name tags without peoples’ professions … It encouraged people to dive in quickly. At the end of the conversation, the themes were unconditional love, instant rejection, and that all love is actually transactional. Transactional love is how energy really does move from one to the next.”

“Every business is human; there's a human behind it,” adds Perez.

After becoming fast friends, Transactional Love was born as a sort of passion project for them both—but the two busy moms needed a little nudge to get going.

“It was neither of our ideas to start a podcast,” Shavon shares. “Norma’s husband, our third party program manager in a lot of ways, a little angel on the shoulder that says ‘keep going,’ created a space for Norma in the garage and he’s like, ‘here’s your podcast.’”

“‘I'm like, ‘I’m doing a podcast?!’” Perez laughs.

Now fully stocked with a comfy couch, a wine fridge, and a disco ball, it’s safe to say the two, who live mere blocks away from one another, have settled into their space and roles as podcasters. Transactional Love launched its first episode in November 2023 and already has over 7,000 followers on Instagram. They’ve showcased such local entrepreneurs as Katherine Berg of Will & Atlas, which makes fair-trade items, and Nicole Yarborough of Pink Arrows Boutique—though the podcast transcends our town.

“We asked ourselves, ‘is this a Benicia podcast?’ We very quickly said no, but it’s rooted in Benicia,” Perez says. “We wanted it to be bigger than this town … yes, we’re rooted in community in Benicia, but through this podcast, we can reach a wider audience.”

“The root of community, for me, is commerce; that local business that you go into and physically interact with,” adds Shavon. “It doesn’t just happen in Benicia, it happens all over. The experience is both unique and universal.”

What’s up next for the duo? In August, it’ll be a casual trip to Europe, including Paris and Vienna, that is coming together thanks to a guest on a podcast episode.

" tran Sactional love i S hoW energy really doeS M ove fro M one to the next."

“This was the first time we had a guest that wasn’t a personal friend. The first ‘oh, this might not be just a little hobby that nobody needs to know about’ moment,” Nora shares.

“Because of this conversation, the CEO of Camp Chateau in France is opening up this fork in the road in life in a way.”

Episodes recapping the trip will be out in October and November. In the meantime, check out Transacional Love’s existing episodes for yourself at transactionallove.org, where you can hear a featured product from each guest at the end of every episode and easily click to be directed to each podcast guest’s business page. B

tH e Beat GoeS on

BeniCia’S in HarmonY muSiC GoeS aBove and BeYond to Create more opportunitieS For StudentS.

n Caitlin Emmett

In Harmony Music provides local youth music programs for children aged 0-8, with parent or guardian participation highly encouraged—it’s a family affair! Since the business has been around since 2003, founder Justine Chadly has accumulated some dedicated participants. After several longtime students surpassed the target age demographic and still wanted to continue on, she’s gotten creative in order to keep their journeys going.

“These 3 stuck with us, and they’re almost 10 now,” Chadly says. They didn’t want to go, so we started doing more and more with them. We’ve been doing a private ukulele class and they're just so advanced; they’re just rocking it; really loving it. They’ll perform with us at the Lucca Beer Garden sometimes. And I thought, ‘how sweet would it be to be featured on our next round of albums?’”

“in variouS CountrieS, it’S tH iS treaSured aSSet to Have CH ildren ’S muSiC paSSed down Generation to Generation SunG BY CH ildren. kidS reSpond to kidS’ voiCeS.“

Chadly and partner Tom Foote record their own albums every season. Their most recent creation, which dropped on March 29th, incorporates these older students.

“There’s something so sweet about their voices,” Chadly says. “In various countries, it’s this treasured asset to have children's music passed down generation to generation sung by children. Kids respond to kids' voices. Everyone’s really enjoying the experience so far.”

The five songs, which include familiar titles like Row, Row, Row Your Boat and Frere Jaques, are what Chadly would describe as classics with a modern, present-day twist. “These versions support mental health along with social and emotional learning,” she says. “There’s purpose behind

“We’re sending them to some of the teachers to use. The songs have very approachable harmony parts, which makes it easy for teachers who don’t necessarily feel confident teaching music.”

As students continue to “age out,” they can rest assured that Chadly will continue to have a special place for them on these albums.

“We’ll definitely be including more and more of our students as they become age-appropriate,” she shares. “It’s just the most joyful part of what we do. It’s so important and fun to highlight their voices, energy, and hearts.”

Going even further to include kids and families of all ages, Chadly has arranged a day at the ballpark to showcase more voices for baseball and local music fans alike—and I don’t mean at Fitzgerald Field. On Thursday, June 27th, In Harmony Music will be performing the National Anthem at AT&T Park’s San Francisco Giants vs. Chicago Cubs game. As In Harmony Music has several locations around the Bay Area other than Benicia, a few hundred families are expected to perform—though tons of familiar faces will be coming from our small town.

“Many, if not most, are from Benicia,” Chadly says. “We have a studio in San Francisco, but there’s something about Benicia. We’re community oriented and bonded and tight. It’s really interesting to see. The teachers are going to be there, some of my alum in middle school and high school will be there to sing with the kids, and of course some of the parents of the kids, too. There’s something really sweet about it.”

Continuing in that thread of community, Chadly’s In Harmony Foundation covers music programs for those who have experienced tragic loss. She was inspired to do so after losing her own son tragically to gun violence in 2018. This time around, a child who has benefitted from the program will perform as part of the Giants game group.

“There’s been 2-3 benicia teens unfortunately that have been murdered in the last couple of years,” she shares. “Another Benicia family had an older son who was murdered and he was a huge San Francisco Giants fan. His younger brother is in our classes and music is part of his and his family’s healing journey. Their participation has been funded by the In Harmony Foundation. For him to be able to sing on the field—since his brother who was the biggest Giants fan is no longer here—is huge.”

If you’d like to access In Harmony Music’s CDs, they’re streaming on all platforms like Spotify and iTunes. You can learn more and access links to their songs at inharmonymusic. com. Furthermore, the baseball event is a fundraiser with $3 of every ticket purchased going toward In Harmony Foundation. Find the link to purchase your tickets and have this monetary donation count at inharmonymusic. com/giantsgame.html. B

on tHurSdaY, June 27tH , in HarmonY muSiC will Be perForminG tH e national antH em at at&t park’S San FranCiSCo GiantS vS. CH iCaGo Cu BS Game.

Whoever You Are, Honey

Book and Cock tail Club

By Olivia Gatwood

“But what if all of this pain has been caused not by a person, but by the things people won’t say out loud to one another, all the assumptions we make to fill the silence, until it’s too late? Lena thinks of everything she fails to say out loud, how so much of her life has unfolded because she was silent about what hurt.”

n Cooper Mickelson

If “Stepford Wives of Silicon Valley” sounds like a Bravo show you’d tune into, you’re going to love our summer Booktails pick. Whoever You Are, Honey by Olivia Gatwood is an eerie and contemplative look into the importance and complexity of female friendships in a hyper-digital age. Set in the familiar landscape of coastal Santa Cruz, this debut novel takes us on a darkly funny and evocative journey through the lives of two women with questionable pasts and a deep longing for connection.

artificial intelligence and enjoying his seemingly luxurious life with Lena, his spellbinding girlfriend.

At the start of Whoever You Are, Honey, we meet Mitty and her elderly roommate Bethel. This oddball pair live in a dilapidated bungalow sandwiched between the ultra-minimalist mansions that continue to pop up as the tech elite flood their neighborhood. For ten years, Mitty has found refuge in their secluded existence after a traumatic event in her adolescence forced her to move away from her hometown in Arizona.

Mitty and Bethel’s world has remained much the same since Mitty’s mother dropped her off at Bethel’s doorstep, but their lives are about to be irrevocably disrupted when a new couple, Lena and Sebastian, move in next door. Sebastian is a renowned tech founder working in

Like Mitty, Lena is burdened by her past, or rather, the gaps in her memory. She's increasingly uneasy about her fragmented recollections and the control Sebastian exerts over their life. As the two women forge an unlikely bond, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, confronting the dark shadows of their pasts that have long held them captive.

Gripping, lyrical, and seductive, Whoever You Are, Honey dissects relationships between women and unpacks their ability to navigate the expectations of our digital world as they help each other heal and grow. Gatwood has made a flawless transition from poetry to fiction with this story full of messy and complicated emotions. Gatwood is a thrilling feminist voice for this ever-evolving age of technology.

Whoever You Are, Honey by Olivia Gatwood will be on sale 7.2.24. Pick up (or preorder if you’re reading this in June) your copy now from Bookshop Benicia.

(optional)

large pinch of salt

sparkling water

* Optional rim and garnish: I love orange zest mixed with salt for the rim and a thyme and pansy edible bouquet as a garnish.

Preparation

Combine all ingredients except sparkling water in a picnic-worthy glass and mix well. Top with sparkling water and have some fun with the garnishes! You can always add your favorite gin or Seedlip to this "mocktail" to really get the garden party started. B

Got Plate Lunch

810 West 9th Street

Benicia, CA

n Gourmet Gracie

Have you heard the great news? Got Plate Lunch just opened a brand-new fullservice restaurant at the old Cliff's Restaurant location. You can find them on the waterfront across from the 9th Street Park near the boat launch.

The Grand Opening was May 1. Gracie stopped by a couple of days later and the place was hopping with a line out the door. The inside has been remodeled with plenty of seating and all your menu favorites plus some new items.

Got Plate Lunch opened originally with their Food Truck in 2011 and then opened a full-service space in 2013—located on First Street in downtown Benicia. After 10 successful years, they lost their lease and have finally found a new home—with a view.

Their meats are fresh, delivered 3 times per week. Fresh Ahi Poke flies in once a week, you can call ahead to find out when. They offer S&S Brand Saimin, Redondo Portuguese sausages, Hawaiian Sun juices, and School Kine Cookies. All are flown in from the Islands.

The Kalua Pork Tots are over the top with tender pork, lots of cheese and crispy tots. Another favorite is the BBQ chicken, which is so tender and delicious dipped in garlic soy sauce. Or, try the Loco Moco: ground beef patties with over easy eggs and covered in brown gravy with fresh green onions. Onolicious! This family run restaurant takes serious pride in offering authentic Hawaiian comfort food with a large serving of aloha.

The Got Plate Lunch Express location at 3200 Bayshore Road, Unit #2, is still open for takeout with new hours MondayFriday from 10 am-2 pm. Closed Saturdays and Sundays. Don't forget to check out their food truck on Farmer's Market nights. Catering is available.

n Gourmet Gracie and Movie Magic

Written and directed by Cameron Crowe of Jerry McGuire, Almost Famous and Fast Times at Ridgemont High fame, Crowe has received a Grammy and an Academy Award. This is his most recent film to date.

Aloha brings us a heartwarming story about relationships, redemption, and reconnection all happening within the beauty of Hawaii's lush surroundings. Cameron Crowe is known for his blend of humor and humanity and he shines here with an emphasis on heritage and identity. The cinematography and storyline capture the cultural significance and the struggle resulting from the US military presence on the Islands.

A celebrated military contractor returns to the site of his greatest career achievements, after a series of significant setbacks. He reconnects with a long-ago girlfriend while finding surprising and unexpected new love. Although underrated when first released, many have since named this as a top 5 movie favorite. Simply put, this is a love letter to Hawaii.

Despite the unfortunate choice to cast Emma Stone as a character meant to depict a woman of Asian/Pacific Islander descent, the cast has obvious chemistry. What's not to like about Bradley Cooper, Emma Stone, Rachel McAdams, Alec Baldwin, and Bill Murray with John Krasinki to boot? Sit back, relax, open your heart and mind, enjoy the scenery and beautiful soundtrack and imagine falling in love all over again.

Movie Magic gives this 4 Moons out of 5 B

summer

June 15

Wine Walk

Benicia Main Street

1-5pm

Stroll First Street on a beautiful afternoon and taste over a dozen wines being poured inside downtown shops.

June 21

Celebrate Pride Cocktail Party

Baxters Restaurant and Bar

7pm-10pm

Join in an exciting mixer put on by the Benicia LGBTQIA Network. There will be specialty cocktails, appetizers, and a no host bar.

July 3

Torchlight Parade First Street 6:30 pm

Benicia’s Independence Day parade stretches along First Street and includes dancers, floats, clowns, and entertainment.

July 4

4th of July Fireworks

First Street Green Sundown

Gather your friends and family, pack a picnic, and stake out the perfect spot along the waterfront to enjoy this electrifying display of small-town spirit.

July 11

White Camel Trash to Treasure Sale

Museum of History - Stone Hall 5pm-8pm

Explore a variety of vintage pieces, antiques, home decorator items, kitchen gadgets, sporting goods, silver, china, fine collectibles, and more as you delve into Benicia's one and only White Camel Sale.

EVENTS

July 12

Movie Under the Stars: Migration (2023) City Park

Movie begins at Dusk.

July 27 & 28

Benicia Waterfront Festival First Street Green 11am-6pm

The popular summer event is back with a splash! Benicia celebrates its picturesque waterfront locale with two days of live music, microbrew tastings, arts & crafts marketplace, delectable gourmet foods, and kids’ activity area.

August 9

Movie Under the Stars: Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire City Park Movie begins at Dusk.

August 16-17

Treetopia

Alden Park, Mare Island

4:30pm

A mixture of training and funTreetopia is a mixture of world-class arborist training and unique games and competitions!

Gallery Exhibits

Arts Benicia and Vallejo Center for the Arts Unveil Solano Water Stories: Artists' Voices and Brushstrokes from the Earth Exhibition

Arts Benicia and The Vallejo Center for the Arts have joined together to present the collaborative exhibition Solano Water Stories: Artists Voices, and Brushstrokes for Earth. This unique project aims to shed light on critical environmental issues and spark conversations about sustainability and social justice. Solano Water Stories: Presented by Arts Benicia Brushstrokes for the Earth: Presented by Vallejo Center for the Arts.

For event details, please visit https://artsbenicia.org/

Classes & Workshops

June 9

Advanced Woodblock Printing Techniques

Arts Benicia 12-5pm

In this class we will explore more advanced techniques to bring your woodblock printing to a new level. Previous woodblock experience required. $165 non-members/$150 members. $20 materials fee paid directly to the instructor

Delta River by Miro Salazar

July 14

Encaustic Painting

Arts Benicia 10am-4pm

Join Angela for this fun workshop for some who have little familiarity and some who have experienced working with the encaustic medium, but seek to refine their skills. $195 non-member/$180 member. $20 materials fee paid directly to the instructor.

Various dates

Summer Clay Camps: Beginner Wheel Throwing & Intro to Hand-Building

Happy Life Pottery

9:00am-11:15am (Mon-Fri)

This camp is designed for students with little to no experience on the wheel, but welcomes those with experience as well. Open to ages 10-16. All tools, materials, glazing, firings, etc. are included.

$250/week

Various dates

Summer Clay Camps: Hand-Building

(Non-Wheel Pottery Projects)

12-2:15 (Mon-Fri)

This camp is designed for students with any amount of experience with clay, no experience is required. Open to ages 10-16. All tools, materials, glazing, firings, etc. are included. $190/week

Various dates

Workshops and Camps for Children at the Benicia Community Center

Benicia Community Center

Benicia Rec offers many classes, camps, and workshops for local youths. Check out their digital RecGuide to find the perfect activity for every age. https://www. ci.benicia.ca.us/recguide

Music & Entertainment

Tuesdays

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

Grab your friends for craft brews, food, and a few brain ticklers from the quizmasters at King Trivia every Tuesday upstairs, in the Benicia Room.

June

7

First Fridays at the Museum: Dirty Cello

Museum of History, Benicia 6:30-9:30pm

From Iceland to Italy, and all over the U.S., San Francisco-based band Dirty Cello brings the world a high energy and unique spin on blues, rock, and Americana. B