benicia magazine march 2012

ECRWSSPRSRT STD

US POSTAGE PAID

PORTLAND ORPERMIT NO. 2160

Volume 7 Issue 5 March 2012Please Deliver 2/29-3/2

***** ECR WSS *****

POSTAL CUSTOMER

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

FIVE FAVORITE CULINARY

WHERE LOCAL INTERIOR DESIGNERS

with our

SOLANO COUNTY QUIZ

KITCHEN HERBS TO PLANT NOW

FIND INSPIRATION

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE

FIVE FAVORITE CULINARY

WHERE LOCAL INTERIOR DESIGNERS

with our

SOLANO COUNTY QUIZ

KITCHEN HERBS TO PLANT NOW

FIND INSPIRATION

707-745-9024

Large Showroom with Excellent SelectionOn-Time InstallationsCompetitive PricingProfessional Reliable

M–F 10 to 5:30 l Sat. 10 to 3 or by appointment84 Solano Square in Safeway Shopping Center, Beniciawww.beniciafloorcompany.comB

FCBENICIA FLOOR COMPANY

HardwoodLaminateCarpetTile

Committed to Excellence in Customer Service

Voted #1 Flooring Company in Solano County

CSL

#89

1342

Vacaville (707) 624.7500VacaValley Plaza (707) 624.8500

NorthBay.org

Green Valley (707) 646.3500Fairfield (707) 646.5500

Our doctors respect your opinion and take the time to answer

your questions. At the Center for Primary Care, our approach

is quite the opposite of today’s take-a-number-and-do-what-

you’re-told health care. That means small offices with no lines,

easy parking and appointments when you need them.

• Pediatrics • Family practice • Internal medicine

“I will get to know you as a person.”

— Zackery Wood, DO

...and I’ll be there when you need me.

4 • Benicia Magazine

beautiful, remodeled showroom

everything under one roof

736 First Street, Benicia, CA 94510707.745.8337 • Beniciahomeimp.com

Visit OurVisit Our

Quality, Service, SelectionContractor’s License #864853

Gizzi & Reep, LLP940 Adams Suite A707.748.0900

Exceptional Legal & Mediation Services

www.SolanoLawGroup.com

We’re Expanding

NEW practice areas include:Family Law & Mediation

Criminal DefensePersonal Injury

We now have 8 Attorneys to serve you.

Serving the community for over 60 years

METROPOLITAN VAN & STORAGE5400 Industrial Way, Benicia, CA. 94510

800.824.0549 • Call today for a Free Estimate!www.metrovan.com

Local & Long Distance Moving— Office & Residential Relocations— Military & Government Relocations— Packing & Crating — Modular Furniture Installations— Commercial Distribution & Storage

Record Management & Document Destruction— Self Storage Container Services - Door to Door— NAID Certified Shredding Services

Family Owned and Operated for over 60 years

BeniciaMagazine.com • 5

ChristinaSBenicia.comFacebook.com – Christina S Benicia

Open Every Day • 370 First Street, Downtown Benicia

707.745.5125

I LOVEFASHION

Fashion Destination

BIG BUDDHA HANDBAG

BIG BUDDHA HANDBAG

®


10 From the Editor

12 Currents Historical Museum archivists

Tips for green cleaning

18 Food Farm-to-table dining

22 Wellness Finding our internal compass through meditation

26 Just for Kids What's on the Web

28 Interview with Benicia Community Garden’s Larry Lamareaux

30 Looking Back Part 4: Benicia legislative acts of 1853, gold miner’s tax

32 Listening Featured musician Clif Foster

32 Live music calendar

33 March Events

34 Fashionista Fashion faux pas and wardrobe malfunctions

MARCH VOLUME 7 ISSUE 5

Benicia Magazine

14 Ratcheting Up Solano Pride: Fun & Interesting County Facts

16 Five Essential Kitchen Culinary Herbs

20 Local Interior Designers Share Favorite Books

Departments

Features

14 1620


Benicia Magazine

Involvement in our community is an

integral part of Valero’s culture.

3400 East Second Street • Benicia, CA 94510

Community Relations (707) 745-7534

[email protected]

At Valero, we value…

Community.The Valero Volunteer Council supports dozens of projects each year in Benicia, Solano County, and throughout the Bay Area

where employees live. Volunteers recently assembled 2,500 bags of assorted toiletries to distribute to area shelters.

Community.Features


Capitol Glass Co., Inc.Serving Solano County since 1970

707.745.45705000 East Second Street, Ste. H, Benicia

www.capitolglassbenicia.comLicense # 855587

Specializing in Windows, Showers & Mirrors

Specializing in

Showers, Windows and Mirrors

Free in-home estimates • Lifetime warranty including glass breakageLower your utility bill by installing energy efficient windows

$500 off 7 windows & a patio door

1440 East 2nd Street, Benicia, CA 707.745.3040 • Pielmedspa.com

PIEL MEDICALAESTHETICS

MPACENTER FOR INTELLIGENT

HEALTH

New Location! Coming soon to downtown Benicia

Beauty from the Inside Out

Laser TreatmentsHair, Vein & Sun Spot RemovalRejuvenation • Skin Tightening

InjectablesBotox • RestylaneJuvederm • Artifill

Medical Grade Products

Obagi • Jan Marini MD HCG (coming soon)

Rita Wergowske

EditorJeanne Steinmann

Graphic Design Margaret Bowles

Web SpecialistYarrow Sweningsen

Special Projects/Advertising Coordinator Joey Baker

Contributing WritersBob Ecker, Jerome Page,

Rhonda Lucile Hicks, Beth SteinmannChristina Strawbridge, Sue Sumner-Moore

Contributing PhotographersJerry Bowles, Lisa Duncan Photography

Editorial deadlinesThe 1st of the month prior

to the issue month

Advertising sales 707.853.5226

[email protected] deadlines

The 5th of the month prior to the issue month

Contact Us707.853.5226, Beniciamagazine.com

[email protected]

AdministrationOffice Manager Rise Goebel

Copy Editor/proofreader Beth Steinmann

Benicia Magazine is published monthly by Polygon Publishing, LLC Copyright © 2012, all rights reserved. Contents of Benicia Magazine cannot be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed in Benicia Magazine editorial or advertisements are those of the authors and advertisers, and may not reflect the opinion of Benicia Magazine’s management or publisher. Subscriptions $18.00 per year. Benicia Magazine, P.O. Box 296, Benicia, CA 94510. 707.853.5226, beniciamagazine.com.

We are a GREEN business

Beniciamagazine

Beniciamagazine

Beniciamagazine

Beniciamagazine

Benicia Magazine

BeniciaMagazine.com

Benicia Magazine

Benicia Magazine

Beniciamagazine

Celebrating our 8th Year


Tree SelectionThe right tree in the right place

Trees are one of the most important landscape investment decisions.

Please consider• Function, aesthetics, shade, windbreak & privacy• Form and size, & space constraints• Site consideration & soil conditions• Exposure to sun and wind• Pest problems

www.ci.benicia.ca.us • www.beniciatrees.org

at the Commanding Officer’s Quarters

Benicia Rotary & Benicia Soroptimist

present

A delightful evening of gaming, finger food, raffle prizes and fun!

March 31, 7-11pm Benefitting

educational scholarships and projects in Benicia

Gaming provided by “Three of a Kind”

— Blackjack

— Roulette

— Craps

— Texas Hold'em

— No Host Bar

Tickets: $30 each or two for $50

Available at Bookshop Benicia and Benicia Main Street

Commanding Officer’s QuartersOne Commandant’s Lane Benicia For more information, call 707.746.4343 or [email protected] or [email protected]

Lerner Eye Center

HILARY JON LERNER, M.D.Eye Physician & Surgeon

888.820.9600

Concord I Pittsburg I San Ramon

www.lernereyecenter.com

CK (Conductive Keratoplasty) is a 3-minute office procedure to help improve your near vision.

Noninvasive, painless & safe (no laser cutting)

$150 offZero Interest Financing Available

if booked before March 31, 2012

Dr. Lerner is one of the few doctors performing CK in the East Bay.

“Dr. Lerner is a phenomenal surgeon, and the choice of other doctors.”

Dr. Eric Mariotti, Plastic Surgeon, Concord

End Your Frustration with Reading Glasses

Call today for a complimentary consultation


From the Editor

March is a month of transitions. Still winter when it begins, the vernal equinox on March 20 ushers in spring. The garden beckons and we come out of hibernation with the lengthening days (although, with only a third of February behind us, the weather is remarkably spring-like already!) We yearn to open the windows and let in the fresh air, sweep out the mental dust and begin to think about home improvement, whether it’s a complete remodel or just freshening things up a bit. Like many women I know, and even some men, my favorite television channel is HGTV. I find inspiration in its design programs,

and continuously look to improve the aesthetics, functionality and comfort of our home. This issue is full of home and garden features to inspire readers. Benicia is overflowing with creativity, and we can all tap into and get inspired by the many talented artists, craftspeople, writers, interior designers and gardeners pursuing their passion in their respective fields. Planning a year’s worth of magazine stories and building each issue requires a heavy dose of creativity, but many aspects are technical. It can be a challenge to keep the right and left sides of the brain in balance, so accessing that creative flow is essential. When I’m struggling to come up with even one good idea, I look to a highly personal area in a large closet off the office hallway. It is chock full of crayons, vintage buttons, colored pencils, fabrics, old maps, paints, odd bits and scraps of recycled items, yarn, cross-stitch thread—all manner of craft supplies. It also holds cards I’ve saved, trinkets I love, a new sewing machine and the promise of one day sitting down and actually using some of those items to create something wonderful. For now, I mostly just look at it and smile—just seeing it there makes me happy. I’ll open the doors, turn on the small lamp and peruse books that I know will spark an idea. One book in particular helps me think creatively about work: Where Women Create, by Jo Packham. It features the amazing work spaces of creative women, famous and unknown, local and far-flung. Thanks to TV design programs and the plethora of home magazines (my favorites are House Beautiful and Veranda), over the years the number of men interested in interior design has skyrocketed, and the “man cave” has taken on new importance. Whatever your age

or gender, I encourage you to carve out an area in your home or office to create a space, however small, where you can think or be inspired. Then take a picture and send it to us to share with readers. If for no other reason, mine provides the ultimate validation that comes from the slipping of a small hand into mine by a certain Loma Jane, who, when she visits, beguilingly requests a trip to “Jeanne’s creativity closet,” which inspires her to sit right down and practice writing her letters, even at the tender age of four.

Send your comments, suggestions and ideas to:[email protected]

Jeanne Steinmann

CORRECTION: In the January issue, there was an error on Allied Waste’s ad regarding the Devlin Road Transfer Station’s acceptance of household hazardous waste. As of 1/1/12, the Devlin Road facility no longer accepts HHW from Benicia residents. We regret the error.


Let our family keep your family comfortable!Providing excellent customer service since 1996

CA

lice

nse #

7193

81

1768 Broadway - Vallejo, CA 94589

645-0734

& Best of the Bay for 2 years

Voted Best of Solano for 7 years

Large variety of flowers, plants and treesDecorative pots & garden accessories

Master Nursery productsIndoor plants and quality garden tools

Large variety of flowers, plants and treesDecorative pots & garden accessories

Master Nursery productsIndoor plants and quality garden tools

3635 Highway 29, Vallejo

707.642.4167www.midcitynursery.com

any purchase of $50 or moreWith this coupon • Expires 3/31/12

MID CITYNURSERY

For All Of Your Landscape Needs

OFFPleasant Hill

571 Contra Costa Blvd. 925.825.6888 castoolsbarsdinettes.com

Other locations in San Jose, San Carlos and Dublin

COMFORT AND QUALITYMade in New England

Dining Table by Saloom Mfg.

Sale in Progress

• Up to 152 Seated300 Standing• Chair & Table Rental• Catering Kitchen• Air Conditioned• Wheelchair Access• Ample Parking• Competitive Rates

2060 Camel Rd.Benicia, CA 94510

BENICIAHISTORICAL MUSEUMEVENT CENTER

The Benicia Historical Museum is simplythe perfect location to hold your event!

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places,Stone Hall’s old world charm will envelop yourguests and the magic of the Spenger Gardenplaza is sure to impress.

Tour our event center Tuesday-Thursday, 9-2Call for an appointment at 707-745-5435www.beniciahistoricalmuseum.org

12 • Benicia Magazine Currents

You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate the behind-the-scenes work that goes into valuing, editing, recording, maintaining, preserving and displaying items in the Benicia Historical Museum’s collection. The Museum is a repository for civic and community records and documents; one that adds to Benicia’s pride and sense of place. Most of the collection items have been donated or lent by Benicia’s citizens who trust the museum’s volunteers to take proper care of them. It’s no small job. Thanks to volunteers like Bev Phelan, who in her more than twenty years at the Museum, has logged in a whopping 36,400 hours. Much of her time is spent researching photos and documents for authors, publishers, historians, students and film companies. To date, Bev and other Museum volunteers have accessioned about half of the Museum’s current collection. These include 9,358 photos, 2,838 objects, 1,427 archival documents and 76 books. The four buildings that comprise the Museum complex are rented from

the City for $1 per year. To fund ongoing operations, in addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum hosts six concerts per year in the Spenger Garden, three temporary exhibits, lectures, Kid’s Day and other events. Bev Phelan, Jim and Robert Garrett, Bob Kasnikas, Fred Paine, the board of directors, the many docents and other volunteers are all critical components to the Museum’s success. Benicia’s namesake, Doña Benicia, would be proud. To become a member or learn more about the Museum, visit beniciahistoricalmuseum.org. B

Do you associate a clean home with the lingering fragrances from commercial household cleaning products? According to Deirdre Imus, best-selling author and founder of the Greening the Cleaning program, household cleaning fragrances could be harmful to your health. The Deirdre Imus Environmental Center for Pediatric Oncology researches possible links between various cancers and environmental hazards. In her book, Greening Your Cleaning, published in April, 2007, Imus advocates the use of alternative cleaning products. The book includes an easy-to-follow table of “what to avoid and why” ingredients found in common cleaning products, including all purpose cleaners, laundry detergents, glass and window cleaners, hand dish detergents, air fresheners and deodorizers, carpet cleaners and toilet bowl cleaners. For example, according to the table, artificial fragrances available to manufacturers for cleaning and deodorizing products “could be made up of 50 to 100 or more toxic chemical ingredients. Artificial fragrances cause indoor air pollution and may trigger environmental illnesses such as headache, sinusitis, asthma, allergy, chronic fatigue syndrome,

chemical sensitivity, etc.” Phenols, dyes, chlorine bleach, trisodium phosphate and a host of others bear similar warnings as suspected or known carcinogens, skin, eye and respiratory ailments. The good news is that there are many alternatives available. Thedailygreen.com has a slideshow that explains how to make your own green cleaning supplies, and many companies are offering green products. Imus’ list of ingredients to avoid can be downloaded as a pdf file from dienviro.org and printed so you can check labels carefully before you buy. Good Housekeeping’s website, thedailygreen.com, reviews and recommends true green products for home use. They feature six top picks for general purpose cleaning product lines, which are chosen as nominees for their 2011 Heart of Green Awards. The products are: Seventh Generation, Ecover (Belgian Company), Method (Target brand), Mrs. Meyers (S.C. Johnson), Green Works (Clorox) and Nature's Source (S.C. Johnson). Mrs. Meyers and Seventh Generation are available at Raley’s, and Green Works products are available at Safeway. B

Go Green for Spring Cleaning

Benicians GiveMuseum Volunteers Archive


For the events schedule, please check our website www.therelliktavern.com

Call for weekend bottle service and VIP room availability707.746.1137 • 726 First Street, Benicia

3/1 Pick your Blue Moon event

3/2 David Bustamante

3/3 Cascada

3/9 Acoustic S & M

3/10 Sonny at the Tollbooth

3/16 Beyond Conception

3/17 Douglas Mclean & Arbroath

3/23 Sin Silver

3/24 Wake the Neighbors

3/30 The Song Dynasty

3/31 Drop Apollo

CelebrateSt. Patrick's day 3/17!

THE BEST PLACE AROUND FOR LIVE MUSIC

Coffeehouse – Bar – Ultra Lounge

3rd Annual St. Patrick' Day

Bash

True Irish band w/Bagpipes!

Huge selection of Irish beers &Irish wiskeys.

Romantic Valentine Dinner

Fe�uary 14

Sailor Jacks

Open Every Day • 123 First Street, 707.746.8500

*expires 3/31/11. One discount per person, no cash value. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

St. Patrick’s Day, March 17Happy Hour beer all day!

Purchase one lunch or dinner entrée

with this ad*

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

receive one complimentary dessert

in March & Benicia Unified School District350 East K StreetBenicia, CA 707.747.8300www.beniciaunified.org

We value Kid’s Nutrition• 6 out of our 7 schools have vegetable gardens• Healthy Cooking for Kids program K-5• Lunches contain no fried foods or trans fats• Emphasis on whole grain products• Expanded salad bars at all elementary schools

MC2 Golf Pro, Inc.

DO YOUR CLUBS FIT YOU?Improve your game with the world's most amazing

indoor virtual golf simulator!

Practice with the latest in virtual golf technology—play Pebble Beach and more at our simulator studio

Buy an hour, get an hour free (Simulation only) with this ad, expires 3/31/12

960 Grant Street, Ste. A, Benicia 707.745.6075 • www.mc2golfpro.com

Lessons • Sales • Studio & ShowroomClub fitting • Distributor

Book your tee time now!

There’s so much happening in Solano County that we're only able to scratch the surface. Starting with geography, we are perfectly positioned. Solano County residents enjoy easy access to all of Northern California’s best playgrounds, and we have more than a few of our own. With San Francisco only a ferry ride away, little more than an hour to the ocean and, sorry Contra Costans—the fastest getaway

to Tahoe on the Bay, does it get any better? Indeed it does. Although we haven’t completely shaken our “humble cousin” reputation to some of the Bay’s status

counties, we have our own “wine country” that is more laid-back than our neighbors to the north, abundant art and culture, parks and open space, great boutique and outlet shopping,

golf courses, history, lots of birds and inland waterways set around bucolic rolling hills. To ratchet up our Solano County pride, we offer a few other fascinating tidbits worth knowing, but if you are a know-it-all, feel free to jump right to the quiz at the end to test your Solano County IQ.

Fast FactsLand & water: 909.4 square miles total, with 84.2 square miles of water area and 675.4 square miles of rural land area*

Population: 414,509 (January 2011)* Cities & towns: Solano County has 7 cities and 69 unincorporated places*

Higher education: Six colleges & universities, some with multiple campuses: Solano Community College, 4 campuses: Suisun City, Vallejo, Vacaville, Travis California Maritime Academy, VallejoChapman University, 2 campuses: Fairfield, TravisSt. Mary’s College Extended Education Fairfield,Touro University, Mare Island, VallejoUniversity of Phoenix, Suisun City

Counties we border: Yolo, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Contra Costa, Marin, Sonoma & Napa

Major bodies of water:San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, the Carquinez Strait, Suisun Bay and the Sacramento River

The Great Pacific FlywayFrom the Bering Strait to South America, millions of birds (over 350 species) migrate up and down California. Over 200 bird species fly through Solano County, many of which can be seen from Rush Ranch by the Suisun Marsh or Lake Solano Park near Winters. The southward migration begins as early as August, and northward as early as March. Check out the common birds of Solano County checklist at napasolanoaudubon.com. For resources and links, visit solono.co.ca.us and rushranch.net.

A Solano County Primer: art, agriculture and a whole lot more

*co.solano.ca.us

CITIES INCORPORATED POPULATION (Jan. 2011)

Benicia 1850; 1851 27,118Vallejo 1868 116,508Suisun City 1868 28,212Dixon 1878 18,435Vacaville 1892 93,011Rio Vista 1893 7,433Fairfield 1903 104,815


Faces of Fairfield, 42' X 60', lead artist Lee Wilder Snider

Answers: 1) Native American Chief Sem Yeto, baptized Chief Solano. 2) 1850. 3) Round graphic showing Chief Solano, agriculture, water & mountains, bordered by Benicia State Capitol pillars. 4) Yes. 5) Fairfield. 6) d. 92 bridges. 7) Vallejo. 8) Tomatoes. 9) Nine. 10) d. 133 total.

Public ArtSolano County has a public art committee to oversee public art at the County

Administration Center and other county facilities. Several Solano County cities also have public art programs, including Vacaville, Vallejo, Fairfield and Benicia. Fairfield is big

on murals, and the murals are huge. Through collaborations between the Rotary Club of Fairfield, the City of Fairfield, the Fairfield Visual Art Association and the Fairfield Downtown

Association, these amazing works of art can be seen on the sides of downtown buildings. The lead artist for Faces of Fairfield, a whopping 42’ X 80’ on the southeast corner of Texas and Jackson Streets, was Benicia artist Lee Wilder Snider. Some Solano cities, including Benicia and Vacaville,

are compiling lists of art in public places. Vallejo has a very interesting collection of rare and unique books, printing equipment and binding tools, called “The McCune Collection,” at the JFK

Public Library, mccunecollection.org. B

National Register Of Historic PlacesThe county boasts 21 NRHS designations

Benicia: The Benicia Arsenal, Benicia Capitol State Historic Park, Carr House, Crooks Mansion, Joseph Fischer House, Old Masonic Hall and Stamboul (Whaling Bark)

Bird’s Landing: The Bird and Dinkelspiel StoreCollinsville: The Hastings AdobeDixon: The Jackson Fay Brown House and the Dixon Carnegie LibrarySuisun City: The Samuel Martin House and the Suisun Masonic Lodge No. 55Vacaville: The Peña Adobe, Pleasants Ranch, Will H. Buck House and Vacaville Town HallVallejo: The Saint Vincent’s Hill Historic District, Vallejo City Hall & County Building Branch,

the Old City Historic District and the Mare Island Naval Shipyard

American Viticultural AreaSolano County has three AVA designations: Suisun Valley, Green Valley, and we share part of the world renowned

North Coast AVA that includes Napa, Sonoma, Mendocino, Lake and Marin counties. Established in the mid-1800’s, Suisun Valley

boasts California’s second oldest AVA (Napa was the first). The three AVAs encompass over 21,000 acres of vineyards. For a laid-back tasting experience, check out the wineries at svwinecoop.com.

1. How did Solano County get its name?2. What year did Solano become a county?3. What’s on the county seal?4. Is agriculture one of Solano’s top industries?5. Which Solano city is the county seat?6. How many bridges are owned by

Solano County? a. 0-10b. 11-25c. 26-50d. Over 50

7. Besides Benicia, which other Solano city served as state capitol?

8. What’s Solano’s top crop? 9. How many museums are there in the county? 10. How many lakes, streams, creeks, sloughs and

reservoirs?a. 0-25b. 26-50c. 51-99d. Over 100

art, agriculture and a whole lot more

Quiz: Test Your Solano County IQOne point per question

10 points: Solano Genius7-9 points: Solano Total Nerd 5-7 points: Solano Smarty3-6 points: Average Solanoan1-2 points: Shame of Solano


Photo by Jerry Bowles


FIVE INDISPENSABLE KITCHEN HERBS

By Beth Steinmann Narrowing any list of herbs down to five is next to impossible for a plant lover, but these five: parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme and cilantro, should cover your basic culinary needs and then some. They can be grown in containers close to your kitchen window or placed strategically throughout your yard. I add at least one of these to most meals, year round. These tasty allies are not only flavor agents, but also important nutritional sources. Parsley is native to the Mediterranean and enjoys the California climate. It’s a slow germinator so I buy a start in the spring. It can be a biannual, growing back the second year, but won’t grow back once it’s gone to seed. It likes rich, well-drained soil and about 6 hours of sun per day. It’s rich in vitamins K, C, A, folate and iron. I add parsley to soups, salads, garlic mashed-potatoes and use as a garnish. A favorite summer salad is equal parts parsley, shredded carrot and thinly sliced apple, with sea salt, lemon and olive oil. I prefer the flat-leaf varietals. Sage is a timeless classic. There are over 200 salvia species, and an ornamental sage garden is well loved by bees and hummingbirds. For culinary purposes, use Salvia officinalis, or garden sage. A hearty perennial, it’s easy to grow and useful most of the year. I cut it back in winter to encourage new growth. It likes full sun and doesn’t require much water. It’s a staple in stuffing and I often tuck a few leaves under the skin of a chicken breast before it’s seared and baked. Fried sage leaves are popular in the South and compliment sliced, baked sweet potatoes. Rosemary is a hearty, woody evergreen that also attracts beneficial insects year-round with its delicate purple-blue flowers. Buy a start and plant in well-sunned, well-drained soil, as it won’t tolerate waterlogging. It will grow happily for years if left alone. I stuff my chicken with rosemary and add it to potato dishes. Its flowers are sweet and subtle and make a wonderful

addition to a garden salad. It’s also highly regarded for its anti-inflammatory and m e m o r y -e n h a n c i n g properties. Thyme is a perennial that also enjoys full sun and well-drained soil. Like rosemary and sage, it has a rich medicinal history due to its strong antimicrobial properties. I add it to soups and sauces year round, especially if someone in the family has a cough or cold. Its tantalizing citrus varietals are also among my favorites. Lemon thyme goes well in homemade vinaigrettes. It dries well and is nice to have on hand in the kitchen in winter. Cilantro has a short growing season and bolts easily. To maximize growing time, sow seeds close together in a large container with fast-draining soil and thin to 3-4 inches apart when they reach 2 inches tall. Position the container to receive only morning or late afternoon sun. Harvest fresh leaves regularly. When the plants do bolt, let them go to seed as the coriander can be harvested and dried. Cilantro is high in antioxidants and also provokes excretion of heavy metals built up in the body. This makes it an excellent companion for fish with questionable mercury content, such as Ahi tuna. Try baking fresh sea bass in a tinfoil packet with papaya-cilantro salsa for a mouth-watering treat. Visit beniciamagazine.com for an expanded herb list and a recipe for homemade herb ranch dressing.

These tasty allies are not only flavor agents, but also important

nutritional sources.“

”

to grow and enjoyto grow and enjoy


707.745.5933www.calcomfort.com

4680 East 2nd St., Benicia

Visit our large showroom of Fireplaces, Stoves,

Inserts & BBQ’s

Visit our large showroom of Fireplaces, Stoves,

Inserts & BBQ’s

Adding Warmth and Beauty to Your Home

For Over 30 Years

Over 35 Years of Excellence!

Benicia Plumbing, Inc.Residential and Commercial

“People taking care of people...”

(707) 745-2930 CA Lic. #329632

Repair or Replace | Water - Gas - SewerGarbage Disposal | Drain Cleaning Water Heaters

Video Camera | Slab Leaks | Free Estimates

24 Hours - Seven Days a Week | www.beniciaplumbing.com

Chase’sChase’s Carpet and Blind Cleaning, Inc.

Blind Cleaning, Repair & Restringing

minimum will apply

Dealer

Carpet, Upholstery & Area Rug Cleaning

Blind Cleaning/Repair

$35 OFF

$5 OFF

~Visit Our Showroom~

per blind

4740 E. 2nd Street #25, Benicia707.745.0624

chasescarpetandblinds.com

Michael’s Steam Carpet CareQuality carpet and upholstery cleaning

Specializing in carpet repairs, re-stretching, spot dying, and tile & grout cleaning

Benicia: 707.747.1664 • Walnut Creek: 925.890.0300

Proudly, Benicia

owned and operated

Call for a free estimate • Se Habla Español

Blown Glass, Wall Art, Jewelry, Gift Items

Gallery Hours: Sunday, Tuesday-Thursday 11-5,

Friday 11-7, Saturday 10-7109 East F Street

Benicia, CA 94510

707.748.1336 • www.lindsayartglass.com

Jewelry, Home, Baby, Chocolate

& More

Open Every Day700 First St.

Benicia, CA 94510

707-745-0254www.studio41.com


By Bob Ecker The concept of Farm-to-Table dining, or bringing garden-fresh ingredients as quickly and freshly as possible from a local farm to your plate seems like a no brainer, and is, in fact, an ancient concept. Yet for a long time, the mass produced American corporate culinary machine supplanted that idea in lieu of giving the American restaurant diner consistent, safe and affordable cuisine, even if the quality of the food suffered. A culinary revolutionary was needed and that’s exactly what Alice Waters provided in 1971 when she created Chez Panisse in Berkeley. “In college, I lived for a time in France, and there I experienced for the first time the pleasures of the French table and market-fresh cooking. It wasn't that the food that I ate there was fancy, but rather that it was so alive,” said Waters. “There was beauty in eating and enjoying that kind of seasonal, local, simple food. That French country

feeling is how I cook in my own kitchen and what I had in mind when I opened Chez Panisse.” Many well known chefs, restaurateurs, winemakers, authors, media and other nascent “foodies” were deeply influenced by the ideas that Chez Panisse espoused and the effect can be found throughout Bay Area kitchens. Judy Rodgers, chef-owner at San Francisco's renowned Zuni Café cooked with Alice Waters at Chez Panisse, taking the farm-to-table concept to heart. Prior to her role at Zuni Café in 1987, Rodgers opened the Union Hotel Restaurant in Benicia. Michael Dellar and Chef Bradley Ogden, co-owners of The Lark Creek Inn, were important early proponents of the Bay Area’s Farm-to-Table movement when in 1989 they opened their groundbreaking restaurant in Marin’s Larkspur Landing. Today the restaurant is known as The Tavern at Lark Creek and is part of the

Photos top & bottom left: The Tavern at lark Creek, courtesy of the Tavern Photo above: The Union Hotel

Farm-Fresh, American FareSeasonal,


Enter to Win NOW at exciting-windows.com

Win the Window fashions of your dreams,and free Michael Payne total room design consultation

Come see our full service showroom736 First Street, Downtown Benicia

707.789.0408 • exciting-windows.com

Often considered the "Mother of American food," Alice Waters, originally from New Jersey, graduated from University of California at Berkeley in 1967 with a degree in French Cultural Studies. During her college years, she studied abroad in France and was deeply impressed by the fresh, local cuisine and hospitality. While at Berkeley, Waters was also involved with the Free Speech

movement, working with many others attempting to change the status quo. She eventually opened Chez Panisse in 1971 and provoked a radical altering of the American dining landscape. In addition to her culinary achievements, in 1996 Alice Waters helped to create The Edible Schoolyard at a Berkeley area middle school. This featured a one-acre garden, kitchen facilities and a novel “eco-gastronomic curriculum.” Ideas of local sourcing, sustainability, healthy eating and food economies are helping a new generation of Americans to understand; and hopefully, appreciate what food is, and can be. The success of The Edible Schoolyard led to Waters working with First Lady Michelle Obama in establishing the Organic Garden Project at The White House. Chez Panisse continues to delight diners to this day, with the elegant dining room downstairs and the more casual Chez Panisse Café above. B

Lark Creek Restaurant Group. “Farm-to-Table is not new but something that became important in the late 60’s. Alice Waters was a major leader in the movement and today it’s mainstream,” said co-owner Dellar. He prefers the term “Seasonal-Farm-Fresh-American-Fare” but the idea is the same: providing customers with high quality, fresh as can be, seasonal, locally grown (when possible), sustainable products. “Things went from technique driven to ingredient driven,” said Dellar. Places such as the excellent Marin Farmers Market in San Rafael became an important conduit for discovering superb local produce. “It’s about finding your farmers and having them grow high quality ingredients for you.” Locally grown produce can also be found at the Benicia Farmer’s Market April through October. Another high end proponent of the Farm-to-Table idea can be found at La Toque, a wonderful restaurant in Napa. Ken Frank, executive chef and owner of La Toque said, “Farm-to-Table means that we have a direct connection with the farm. The Bay Area is long known for an extensive network of small artisan producers of top quality foods, and local chefs of course have taken advantage of this." La Toque’s menu provides ample evidence. “We have things on the menu every single night that are directly sourced from a farm, whether it’s Wolfe Farm Quail or Liberty Duck, Long Meadow Ranch Beef, Produce and Eggs,” said Chef Frank. In fact, La Toque grows a significant amount of local produce in the old Copia gardens in Napa, right up the street. “It’s partly our climate that allows for this abundance but it’s also due in part to the strong local food culture that demands this kind of excellence.” Alice Waters’ farm-to-table legacy can be found in Bay Area establishments far and wide and customers can reap the delicious benefits. Michel Dellar summed up the concept by stating, “This is not a fad or a trend, but a way of life.” B

20 • Benicia Magazine20 • Benicia Magazine

Designing Trio at Le RéveThree women came together in 2010 to form the partnership that became Le Réve Interior Design. The design partners, Becky Schultz, Gina Rasler, and Hannah Cramer had previously worked at a combination of Santa Cruz, Carmel, Napa and Bay Area interior design and architectural firms on commercial projects, hospitality, healthcare, and corporate projects as well as residential custom builds and remodels. Schultz and Cramer have degrees in Interior Design from California State Colleges and have been affiliated with ASID. Their full-service showroom is in the Benicia Arsenal.

Le Réve Design & Associates946 Tyler Street, Suite Elerevedesigns.com, 707.747.4762

Pam HughesPam Hughes studied Dramatic Art and Dance at U.C. Berkeley. After receiving the Eisner Award in Dance, she continued performing and choreographing for Bay Area companies. Hughes married her husband, Tom, and settled down in Benicia to raise a family. Eventually, she went back to school to study design at the U.C. Berkeley Extension in San Francisco. Hughes specializes in creating uniquely beautiful gardens as well as interiors. She feels that good design should tell a story about the inhabitants. For inspiration, Hughes looks to nature for that perfect balance and harmony that mother nature creates.

Pam Hughes [email protected], 707.590.0937

Michael Trahan Interior DesignMichael Trahan’s passion for design became evident before high school, working in his family design and construction business. After studying interior design and graduating from the University of Louisiana, Michael specialized in custom homes and gained extensive experience in commercial, hospitality, staging and model home merchandising. Michael is a Certified Interior Designer and member of the Color Marketing Group—an international organization whose members forecast color direction, as well as the National Home Builders Association and the Benicia Chamber of Commerce. His firm has been awarded numerous local, state and national awards for design and merchandising.

Michael Trahan, LLCCommercial & Residential Interior DesignBenicia 707.748.1080Benicia, michaeltrahan.com B

Books that Inspire Local

Interior Designers

Meditations on Design and Designing with Succulents: Pam Hughes

Modern Glamour, Feng Shui and Harmonious Living and Color, Natural Palettes for Painted Rooms:

Michael Trahan

Dream Homes, The Antiques Directory and Pure California: Le Réve


Celebrate the Arrival of Spring in Downtown Benicia with

Benicia in Bloom!

Saturday, March 31, 11am-5pm & Sunday, April 1, 12-4pm

The Hat Contest is back! Throw your hat in the ring and strut your stuff at Bloom. For more information, visit BeniciaMainStreet.org or call 707.745.9791

Our Annual Spring Open House Features:• Retailers, Restaurants & Businesses showcase trends for Spring 2012• Benicia in Bloom Hat Contest• Face Painting, Chalk Art & Easter Bunny• Music & Entertainment• Garden & Art Tour

Booking Weddings for 2012 | 925.708.8936 Studio: 940 Tyler Street, Suite 26, Benicia

L i s a D u n c a np h o t o g r a p h y

Weddings Bar Mitzvahs

Engagement session included in weddings reservations made by

April 30, 2012

22 • Benicia Magazine Wellness

Sometimes we have so many choices (choices made under pressure, choices with deadlines, choices for our children) that we begin to live choice to choice, minute to minute, hour to hour, swinging like a monkey from one thing to the next until at long last our head hits the pillow. We can’t sleep because our mind races on—lest we forget an important detail—and then we get up and do it all again. Our professional and family lives often demand so much of us that the best we can do to relax is take in a TV show and glass of wine before bed. When external demands run so high, how do we pause long enough to find our internal compass? I like to look at it like this: my body, mind and heart are my instruments. I am the key to my success in this lifetime, however I choose to measure it. I am the center of my universe, so to speak. I don’t believe this is selfish. When my body, mind and heart are well taken care of, I have more energy to devote to my work, friends and loved ones. And it’s sustainable energy. When I put work into my physical and mental health, the payback is tenfold. An invaluable tool in this process (in addition to the doc’s advice: eat well, sleep well, exercise) is meditation. I define meditation simply as the practice

of going within. The definition IS simple, but I say “practice” because it ain’t always easy! There’s often a part of us that would prefer to avoid all the stuff inside that may be messy and uncomfortable, which is easy to do when distractions abound. (My inner dialogue when I sit down to meditate usually begins like this: “Wait, my feet are cold, I’d better go put some socks on. Oh, and I’d better get a glass of water in case I get thirsty. And my phone in case someone really needs to call me.” But this is precisely WHY we meditate—to practice quieting the mental chatterbox long enough to find some quiet and stillness—which can lead to feeling centered and balanced, and in turn to sustained inner peace. I often forget to meditate when I need it the most “(I’m too tired, I’m too busy),” but when I set aside the time to practice regularly,

everything in my life gets easier. Be creative in how you define meditation. A relaxing bubble bath or walk in nature can be quite meditative. And be open to the possibilities—what do you have to lose? B

Practice

MEDITATIONMEDITATION

By Beth Steinmann

Choices are everywhere. Every day we make thousands of them. Which socks to wear, what to eat for breakfast, which lane to drive in on the freeway, whether to check our email or Facebook first.

Meditation can be intimidating. Here are

some tips to keep in mind:— There are thousands of types of meditation. Some use sound, visualization, breath-work, and even movement. Do your research. Talk to friends. Find a type that’s fun, engaging, and works for you. It will probably be challenging, but shouldn’t feel like a chore.

— Take a beginning class or join a meditation circle. A group setting can be very helpful, especially until you have the tools you need to continue practice on your own. If you’re an experienced meditator, branch out and try something new—it may bring new life and dynamic energy to your practice.

— Find time and space to practice regularly, away from the demands of your everyday life. This may mean creating a meditation corner somewhere in your house, working around family schedules, or at a time of day that’s conducive to your natural energy levels.

— Use the tools when you need them most: in tough negotiations at work or when your kids keep you up at night. You’ll be surprised at your ability to handle difficult situations with poise. Many companies are now hiring professional meditation services to empower their employees.

OF GOING

THE

Within


Bela's MarketBela's MarketYour family-owned neighborhood market

632 First Street, Downtown Benicia Open every day, 7:30am-9:00pm

707.745.6390

Grocery, dairy & ice • Organic coffeeFresh, organic produce

*with this ad, expires 3-31-12

Yan Spa & Massage

252 First Street, BeniciaOpen every day 9:30am-9:30pm

707.745.5888 • www.yansdayspa.com

Relax & enjoy special offer*

— 20 minute Chair Massage $19.99— One hour Herbal Foot Massage $24.99— One hour full body massage $49.99— Two hours Full Body/Foot Massage $69.99— One hour Full Body 4 Hands Massage $99.99

Reservation preferredWalk-ins welcome

Gift certificates available

Benicia's Studio One707.373.7256 • 273 East H Street, Benicia

Kathy Muniz

A Great Hair StyleA Great Hair StyleBeats A New Outfit Hands-down

Call today for a style that makes you look fabulous every day!

Visitkathy4hair.com

Dance basics and accessories— Tights, legwarmers & leotards— Ballet, jazz and tap shoes — Skirts and bags

408 Military East, Benicia, CA • 707.747.5022

Y

CapezioBlochBody Wrappers Angelo Luzio

NNNNNNNNNN

NNNNNNNNNNBenicia Dancewear

946 Tyler Street, Suite E, Benicia

Open to the Public & to the TradeInterior Design Showroom • Commercial & Residential

707.747.4762 • lerevedesigns.com

Delicious Lunch, Afternoon Tea,

Desserts& Fine Teas

& Tea Accessories

Camellia Tea RoomVoted #2

Best Tea House in the SF

Chronicle/SFGate.com

“Best of the Baylist”

Camellia Tea Room • 828 First StreetDowntown Benicia • 707.746.5293

MEDITATIONMEDITATION


To the Arsenal

BeniciaMarina

BeniciaCapitol

EAST D ST.

EAST F ST.

EAST E ST.

EAST G ST.

EAST H ST.

EAST I ST.

EAST J ST.

FIRS

T ST

REET

FIRS

T ST

REET

MILITARY WEST

26

32

1

A

B

25

24

2322

21

20

19 1718

16 15

1314

1211

10

98

7

65

4

City Park

FIRST STREET

BENICIA

A. Judith Judson 310 Military WestB. A. Wise Tax Service 1350 Hayes Street1. Tosch Dental 118 West K Street 1075 First Street2. ATS Tax & Financial Solutions 1075 First Street3. Jordan Real Estate 1038 First Street4. A Lago Salon 1036 First Street5. Estey Real Estate 935 First Street6. Adobe 2nd Chance Thrift Store 929 First Street7. Benicia Floral & Gifts 838 First Street8. Camellia Tea Room 828 First Street9. Wellness Wisdom 827 First Street10. Benicia Home Improvement 736 First Street11. Artcentric 733 First Street12. The Rellik Tavern 726 First Street13. Studio 41 700 First Street14. Sandovals Restaurant 640 First Street15. Bela’s Market 632 First Street16. Little Bird 611 First Street17. First Impressions Salon 602 First Street18. Lindsay Art Glass 109 East F Street19. Benicia Chamber of Commerce 601 First Street20. Hamann Real Estate 513 First Street20. Joan Shepard 513 First Street 21. Christina S Fashion Destination 370 First Street22. Light Touch Medical Spa 321 First Street23. Be Chic Boutique 309 First Street24. Yan Spa & Massage 252 First Street25. Sailor Jacks Restaurant 123 First Street26. Benicia Main Street 90 First Street


733 First Street, 707.745.9553 • ArtcentricBenicia.comGreat for Birthday Parties!

A “paint your own” pottery studio Artcentric Christie Finn | Realtor DRE# 01876823

Coldwell Banker Solano Pacific900 First Street | BeniciaPh: 707.853.9787 | Fax: [email protected]

707.745.9300, 707.558.9000 Office707.246.6567 Cell513 First Street, Beniciahamannrealestate.com

Jeannie HamannREALTOR/OWNER, 25 years experience

DRE 0

0891

682

ALAGOSALON.COM

1036 First StreetBenicia, CA 94510707.745.1450A Bumble and bumble Exclusive Salon

Mexican Food

640 First Street • 707.746.7830

FIRST IMPRESSIONSHAIR SALON AND SPA

832 First Street • 707.747.6910

Tax & Financial Solutions, Inc.Sylvia J. Barata, EA

Your Trusted Tax Advisor • 707.745.10401075 First Street Suite 6, Benicia • www.taxangels.com

See beniciamagazine.com Bus. Directory ad, Services, for details

611 First Street, Benicia, CA 94510707.747.5400 • littlebirdbenicia.com

adorable & affordablegames, gadgets & gifts

for bellies, babies & big kids

Joan Shepard, RealtorHonesty, Integrity, Experience. “Your Realtor for Life!”

DRE#

0123

3172

513 First Street, Benicia707.747.9300 Office707.567.3901 Cell

www.joanshepard.com

1038 First Street, Benicia707.746.4864 Office • 707.480.5501 Cell

[email protected] • www.jordanrealestate.com

Jordan Real Estate, Inc.Reneé Jordan

Real Estate doesn’t have to be this painful!

Residential & New Home Sales; Property Management707.745.0759 www.judsonandcompany.com

Lic.

# 49

084-

EA

Business Property and Income Tax Services707.634.4TAX • www.awisetax.com

Arsenal Admin Bldg, 1350 Hayes Street, B-14, Benicia

French CONVERSATIONAL CLASSES

Reserve your seat: [email protected]

707.644.3421

— Beginner, Intermediate or Advanced Adults— Small groups or individual sessions — C’est facile et amusant!

GET COMFORTABLE IN YOUR BODY

707.246.2331 • [email protected] • www.MarleensYoga.net707.246.2331 • [email protected] • www.MarleensYoga.net

New Classes Added!Private Instruction

Trigger Point TherapyThai Yoga Massage


Just for Kids 2/29-3/4 Disney on Ice: Pixar’s Toy Story 7:30pm Recounting the saga of all 3 movies Oakland’s Oracle Arena, 7000 Coliseum Way Ticketmaster.com

3/2 Kids Night Out 7-10pm Arts & crafts, games, snacks & a movie Wear your PJ’s & bring a sleeping bag Benicia Community Center, Kids K Room Ci.benicia.ca.us 707.746.4285

3/7 All About Ancient Egypt 3:30-4:45pm Activities include hieroglyphics & making a mummy Ages 8 to 14 Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

3/10 Hide n Seek: Insect Camouflage 1-4pm Visit the UC Davis Bohart Museum of Entomology Over 7 million insect specimens & live petting zoo 1124 Academic Surge on California Drive Bohart.ucdavis.edu 530.752.0493

3/12-16 Play-Well Teknologies Jedi Engineering Ages 5-7, 9-12pm; Ages 8-12, 1-4pm Build S-Wings, droids, palaces & more Benicia Community Center, Room 2 Ci.benicia.ca.us 707.746.4285

3/17-25 Six Flags Discovery Kingdom 2012 Spring Weekends Park opens at 10:30am, closing times vary from 6-10pm 1001 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo Sixflags.com/discoverykingdom 707.644.4000 3/23 Hunger Games Movie Event for Teens 6-8pm Can’t wait to see the movie? Celebrate early Dress in costume, themed food & activities Benicia Library, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

3/31 Fishing in the City, Ages 5-12 8am Some bait & loaner poles, light lunch after event Fish clean on location; Dan Foley Boat Launch 1430 El Camino Alto, Vallejo GVRD.org 707.648.4483 Anthony Kenaston

Beniciamagazine.comFebruary Contest Winners

Contests • BlogsComprehensive Business Directory

Two lucky winners each received $75 Downtown Dollars

to spend in Downtown Benicia!

Congratulations toBecky Schultz and Julia Allen Ballet Contest

Congratulations to Caroline Cadloni!

Caroline won two tickets to the Smuin Ballet Winter Performance at Walnut

Creek’s Lesher Center for the arts

Calendars: Hundreds of Benicia, Bay Area, Wine Country & Tahoe Events

Win Free Stuff Online! Enter today at

beniciamagazine.com


www.ironhorsehome.com

452 Hartz Ave., Danville, CATues-Fri 11-6, Sat 10-6, Sun 11-5

925.314.9782990 Grant Street, Benicia, CA

Tues-Fri 10-5, Sat 10-6, Sun 11-5707.747.1383

Upgrade your alone time.

FREE LEATHER UPGRADE*with purchase of any Stressless® furniture.

Savings up to $500 per seat!February 3 - March 25

*See your sales associate for complete details.

Stressless® living is the perfect combination of comfort, function and style. Our patented Plus™ system provides you with optimum head and lumbar support in any position, while the Glide system keeps your body in perfect balance. Come in today and experience the unparalleled comfort of Stressless® furniture. You’ll see why Stressless® earns the title, The Innovators of Comfort™. From Februry 3-March 25, purchase any piece of Stressless® furniture and we’ll reward you with a FREE upgrade from our introductory fabric program to our luxurious leather seating. See sales associate for complete details. www.ekornes.com Stressless® is proudly endorsed by the American Chiropractic Association.

THE INNOVATORS OF COMFORT™

COWs of the Bay Area: Container on Wheels

Garage full? Closets jammed? Patio packed? In between moves? We’re the COWs folks and we bring

the storage to you!

8-foot & 16 foot COWS: Safe, convenient, affordable storage solutions.

Only pay for the time you use! Daily, weekly or monthly rates available.

Benicia • Napa • Sacramento • Mountain View

COWs of the Bay Area707.745.1150 • 925.372.8015 • 866-GET-A-COW

www.866-get-a-cow.com

Call today for a free quote!

28 • Benicia Magazine Interview

What do you remember about gardening when you were a child? When I was about 5 years old, we had a Victory Garden that had broccoli. One day I spontaneously ate the head off one bunch, and I knew I shouldn’t have done that. So I went in and told my mother, and she just said, “I grew it for you to eat and if you want to eat it that way, that’s OK.” That’s always stuck with me. I asked her about it years later, and she didn’t even remember it. But I’ve remembered all my life how relaxed she was about it.

What’s your favorite crop? Tomatoes are very important to us in our family, and we very much value having tomato puree all through the winter. This year we added some roasted red pepper to it, and we like to have some onions and garlic in it as well. We like to fill the freezer with tomato puree.

What do you plant at home? Things that are nice to have near your kitchen. We had some nice lemon cucumbers, tomatoes, wonderful carrots, beets, parsnips—my wife doesn’t make any soup without parsnips— parsley, green onions, various herbs.

What will you be planting this spring? We most certainly will be putting in our tomatoes. We enjoyed our cucumbers, so we’ll put those in, and some beets, parsley. … We were tickled with the parsnips, so we’ll probably plant parsnips again. Chard. We use a lot of Swiss Chard and we’re just

now discovering kale, so we’ll get some more kale started. It’s too late for broccoli. Peas—sugar snap peas—if you have enough sun, you can start them.

What are the first steps for a beginning gardener? Just come join us and that way you’re not on your own. Kimball Goodman came here (to the community garden) last year and he’d never gardened before. He had a great outcome. When you’re here, you can get ideas of what to plant and how to take care of it.

Are the plots for each gardener’s personal use? Our tradition since the community garden started 13 years ago is to assign each bed to a person or family and let them do what they want. Some community gardens have no private beds and raise it all for the community. When the garden is community-oriented, it makes it easier for someone who feels unskilled to come in and learn more about gardening. At our big gardeners meeting in the fall, we talked about growing something for the community, possibly for CAC or the dinners at St. Paul’s church. So that’s why we built the big bed.There are advantages to both types and we’re trying to combine both models.

How is your gardening linked to your work on the Community Sustainability Commission? I’m concerned about soil and have been reading a lot about it. I don’t think most people realize everything we eat comes from the soil. Even when we eat meat, the animals eat plants that come from the soil.

By Sue Sumner-Moore For Larry Lamoreux, growing vegetables is like going back to his roots. His parents were raised on family farms. They raised Larry and his sister on 1.5 acres that are now part of Fremont. His mother always had a garden, and Larry raised Berkshire hogs as a member of Future Farmers of America while in high school. Now, after a career in medical prosthetic engineering, Larry devotes much of his time to gardening. He grows herbs and vegetables in his back yard plus has a plot at the community garden at Military and East Second Street. “I’ve always enjoyed working in the dirt. I’ve always had a garden of some type,” says Larry, 75. “It’s a good way to spend time.”

Larry became active with the community garden after he and his wife, May Russell Lamoreux, moved from Lafayette to Benicia eight years ago. He now is treasurer of Benicia Community Gardens Inc. He also serves on Benicia’s Community Sustainability Commission, volunteers with the garden at Mary Farmar School, is a member of the local Native Plant Society and annually leads a workshop on drip irrigation systems. A sunny Saturday in late January found Larry working with others to install redwood planter boxes at the First Street garden. “I’ve found that spending time with people who are attracted to community gardens happens to be one of the joys of my life,” he says with a big smile.

AN INTERVIEW WITH

Larry LamoreuxLarry LamoreuxPhoto by Marilyn Bardet


But the available soil on earth is decreasing as the number of people is increasing, so we have to produce more and more on less acreage. Chemical fertilizers are seriously damaging the soil. Pesticides work for a while, but then the bugs adapt. … It’s getting harder and harder, and more and more expensive. This is clearly unsustainable in the long term.

Any books to recommend? There’s a book, Last Child in the Woods, that I think is excellent. I was raised outdoors. I roamed the hills in Niles Canyon. Once my mom took me for a walk along the creek and we saw 40 different kinds of birds in that one afternoon walking along the creek. I realized when I started working at the school that kids today don’t do that.

What do you do to relax? Ever since I was a little boy, I longed to be out on the water. I have a canoe and kayak and I can wheel my canoe from my house to the boat ramp and go out paddling.

What have you learned from your time at the community gardens? You can’t expect to come down here and work steadily. If you come down in the morning for a couple of hours, you have to expect a couple dozen conversations. The work can always be done, but the conversations over the fence are precious. B

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with special savings on qualityhome improvements during our Spring Green Sale March 14through March 17.

Save on energy saving windows and doors, and especiallyHumboldt Redwood Decking. We are pleased to feature thisexceptional decking from a company with a high standard ofenvironmental stewardship including wildlife protection.

Visit our Benicia location and speak with our decking experts.Discover how much money you can save during this springevent. We’ll help you determine if you can do it yourself or ifusing a qualified contractor is your best option.

Mark your calendar and save on green home improvements.This sale is a four-day-only event.

Save money on qualityHumboldtTM RedwoodDecking from sustainableforests that are managed toprotect wildlife habitats.

Dolan’s in BeniciaOpen Monday through Saturday

4563 East Second StreetBenicia 94510707-746-1780

www.DolanLumber.com

Also in Concord and Pinole with Showrooms in Walnut Creek & Burlingame

Lower Prices. Better Service. Higher Quality.

Benicia Community Gardens Inc.

oversees two locations:

— Swenson Garden, established in 1999, is located at East Second and Military East on property owned by Heritage Presbyterian Church

— Avant Garden, located at First and D streets, was dedicated on Oct. 10, 2010. The property is leased on a month-to-month basis.

More than 30 plots are available at the two locations, and about 10 people were on a waiting list as of late January. “A couple of years ago, we started asking for a donation of $50 a year for water,” says Larry Lamoreux, the organization’s treasurer. “If anyone is short of money, they can contribute time to the benefit of the garden.” The organization began operating in 1999 under the leadership of the late Dr. Edward Swenson and horticulturist Meg Grumio. She remains under contract with Benicia Community Gardens to assist gardeners. For information about the availability of plots or to contact the organization, visit the group’s website, beniciacommunitygardens.org

30 • Benicia Magazine Looking Back

By Jerome Page The gold rush set up a flood of immigrants to the state of California, along with great numbers of citizens from other states. Among these, the first foreigners to make it to California in 1848 were Mexicans and Chilenos. These, because of their proximity and mining expertise, clearly had an edge in the cutthroat competition of mining. Their success resulted in the passage by the California legislature of a foreign miners’ license tax in 1850. This was directly aimed at Latin Americans. Latin American miners refused to pay the impossibly high tax ($20 per month), which gave white Americans an excuse to drive them out of rich mining areas. In one dramatic confrontation in the mining town of Sonora, Mexicans, Chileans, and Peruvians joined with French and German miners to protest the tax. They were subdued by a ragtag militia of white Americans. However, the licensing law and tax were subsequently repealed. Along with a general acceptance of non-English speaking Europeans and that lesser tolerance for Latin American miners, there was little, if any, love lost for the Chinese. Before the law was repealed, many Chinese left the mining camps, moving to San Francisco, where they soon established themselves in the city's business community and created America's first "Chinatown." But many more came to the "Mountain of Gold," as the Sierra was called. The height of Gold Rush immigration came in 1852: of the 67,000 people who came to California that year, 20,000 were from China. A corollary of the prejudice was that Chinese miners who continued their search for gold found increasingly harsh treatment at the hands of their fellow miners. While in Benicia, on April 12, 1853, the legislature adopted a new foreign miners' tax of $4 per month under the provisions of Chapter XLIV, a law engagingly called “An Act to provide for the protection of foreigners and to define their liabilities and

privileges.”(!) This act (again) provided that no person, not being a citizen of the United States, would be allowed to take gold from the mines of the state unless he possessed a license, which was non-transferable. An interesting twist on the administration of this law was that “all foreigners residing in the mining districts of this State (underlying mine) shall be considered miners under the provisions of this Act, unless they are directly engaged in some other lawful business avocation.” This was a sort of blanket provision providing that you had better very clearly have another job or be prepared to apply for the license and pay the toll. The way of living among the Chinese was quite dissimilar from the patterns displayed among the masses of rowdy American gold-seekers surrounding them. Approximately one third of the men attracted by California gold were southern whites, some accompanied by their slaves. Along with desires of wealth, many of those southerners brought along hostile racial attitudes. In the years that followed, those virulent temperaments were felt through laws and attitudes, and African Americans as well as Chinese suffered throughout the mid-century. Miners in the area often used violence to drive the Chinese out of various mines. While impatient gold-seekers would abandon prospective rivers, the Chinese would remain, painstakingly panning through the dust to find bits of gold, displaying the same fortitude that led them to take jobs nobody else wanted. Another fascinating bit reflecting the realities of communi-cating expectancies to the latter was contained in Chapter LX, an “Act providing for the translation and lithographing into the Chinese language of the Act to provide for the protection of for-eigners and to define their liabilities and privileges.” (There’s that word “protection” again.) This essentially consisted of clarifying the requirement to pony up that $4.00 monthly tab! B

Legislation At Benicia State Capitol In 1853

Fourth In A Series


Fourth In A Series


Fourth In A Series

Concerning Gold Mining

License Taxes

Concerning Gold Mining

License Taxes


a Lily of Gold Day Spa

New Location

10% Military & Senior Citizen Discount

• Facials• Microdermabrasions• Chemical Peels• Full Body Waxing• Full Body Massage• Air Brush Spray Tanning

2006 Columbus Parkway, Benicia707.747.5000 • alilyofgoldspa.com

1202 East 5th Street, Benicia707.745.5016 • www.FeathererPet.com

Full-line pet storeProfessional dog & cat grooming

Do it yourself pet wash

Anesthesia-free teeth cleaning clinic – first Sunday of each month

707-745-0924935 First Street, Benicia • www.esteyrealestate.com

Since 1946ESTEY

Real Estate Sales & Professional Property Management

DR

E #

006

7473

8

Customer Service, Professional Knowledge, IntegrityHere for you since 1946, call us today.

Furniture, Collectibles & Household items 11am-6pm, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat

929 First Street, Benicia, 707.745.6276

2nd Chance Thrift Store

Adobe is a clean and sober men’s residential program solely supported by Thrift Shop sales and Labor Services.

Thrift store purchases help men rebuild their lives.

Benicia CleanersBenicia Cleaners81 Solano Square, Benicia • 707-745-1353

(Next to Pizza Pirate) Free delivery & pickup • We honor competitors’ coupons

Since 1977

• No waiting to drop off • All work done on premises• Best shirt laundering in town • No Perchloroethylene

The first to use the most environmentally safe/friendly cleaning process.

STAINS: If we can’t get them out, they won’t come out!

Every 4th pair of pants FREE(Dry clean & pressed)

Slab leaks, repipesWater heaters, faucets

Toilets, garbage disposalsRemodels, gas lines & more

Plumbing and BoilersResidential & Commercial

Locally owned and operatedEarthquake-proof your home to prevent gas leaks/floods!

707.333.5992 • Up2Codeplumbingandboilers.com

10% discount with

this adFree Estimates

No overtime charges for nights or weekendsLic. #944357 Insured & bonded

Carnegie Hall Royal Conservatory

The Achievement Program

Marian Fiore SmockPianist • Instructor • 707.745.1850

Desire Aspireto

Come visit our designer showrooms

2310 “D” Bates Ave. Concord (near HWY 4)

Mon - Fri 7 - 5 and Sat 9 - 2925-798-7525

themouldingcompany.com

Comdesignerd

2310 “ConcorConcor

Mon - Fri 7925

themouldi

also in Santa Clara& Milbrae

Jeanne

Line


Scan for more listings

The Rellik TavernLive music every Friday & Saturday nighttherelliktavern.com 707.746.1137

Upstairs at the CaféLive music every Thursday, Friday & Saturday nightJazz Sunday afternoonfirststreetcafe.com 707.745.1400

The Empress Theatre Vallejo, Live music and movie every Friday nightempresstheatre.org 707.552.2400

Sticky Rice Chinese Bistro & Bar, FairfieldLive Music every Saturday nightstickyricebistro.com 707.863.7500

Favela’s Fusion, FairfieldLive Mariachi music the first Friday of the monthfavelasfusion.com 707.421.8484

House of Floyd: The Music of Pink FloydYoshis, San FranciscoFriday, March 2, 8pm and 10pmyoshis.com

Ladysmith Black Mambazo with VOENAUptownTheatre, NapaFriday, March 2, 8pmuptowntheatrenapa.com

Chamber Music SundaesSt. John’s Presbyterian Church BerkeleySunday, March 4, 3pmchambermusicsundaes.org

Salvador SantanaSilo’s, NapaSunday, March 4, 7pmsilosnapa.com

Garrick OhlssonJackson Hall, DavisFriday, March 9, 8pmmondaviarts.org

When did you hear the violin for the first time? Age six or seven, recordings of Jascha Heifetz.

What did you listen to as a teenager? Mostly Classical. I also liked the Beatles.

What's the first music you remember hearing? Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf.” Still a favorite!

Who influenced your music? My mother introduced me to music so I’d say she was a big influence. My teachers, conductors I’ve played under; but mostly the people I play chamber music with.

Is there music you listen to that might surprise us? New Age, Cubanisimo. When did you know you wanted to be a musician? When I first heard Heifetz play. My taste has changed radically since I was six, but that’s what started things.

Where did you go to school? The American Conservatory in Chicago. I’m not sure it exists any more. My education has been more on-the-job training (lots of it).

You were concertmaster for the Yanni World Tour. What does a concertmaster do? Usually a concertmaster bows the

music (so everyone’s bow is going the same direction) and is sort of the manager of the string section.

How did you get your current job playing with the San Francisco Ballet? I was a regular substitute player for several years. There was an audition, I took it, and then I was appointed.

You also teach? What are the ages of your youngest student and your oldest student? Currently my youngest student is six. My oldest students are adult females. Being well trained, I don’t ask their age.

Congratulations. The Santa Margherita String Quartet recently debuted here in Benicia to a standing ovation and rave review. We were very happy about that. It’s great to have a receptive audience and we hope to do a series of concerts for them.

Can you tell us about your work with the Berkeley Youth Orchestra? I coach every Saturday morning. It’s very satisfying to help the kids develop their skills and love of music.

Where can we see you perform? The Santa Margherita String Quartet will perform March 18 at St Paul’s Episcopal Church in Benicia. Also, we will be at the Bay Terrace Theatre in Vallejo April 22. Both concerts are at 2 pm. B

ONGOING LIVE MUSIC SPECIAL EVENTS

Story and photo by Rhonda Lucile Hicks Featured Musician

Clif Foster Violinist, Concert Master, Teacher

Born: 5/17/52Resides in: Benicia

How long have you lived in Benicia? Nine yearsRelationship Status/Children: married/no children

The Santa Margherita QuartetLeft to right: Elbert Tsai, Caroline Lee, Michael Graham, Clif Foster


Amsterdam Baroque OrchestraZellerbach Hall, BerkeleySaturday, March 10, 8pm510.642.9988

Oleta AdamsThe Rrazz Room, San FranciscoThursday, March 15 Saturday, March 17therrazzroom.com

The Santa Margharita String QuartetSt. Paul’s Episcopal Church Benicia, Sunday, March 18, 2pmTickets available at the door

Richard MarxVacaville Performing Arts Theatre, VacavilleFriday, March 23, 8pmvpat.net

Ray Obiedo & Mistura FinaArmando’s, MartinezSaturday, March 24, 8pmarmandosmartinez.com

The Sun KingsEl Campanil Theatre, AntiochSaturday, March 24, 8pmelcampaniltheatre.com

Vallejo SymphonyLander Hall, VallejoSunday, March 25, 2pmvallejosymphony.org

Ani DifrancoUptown Theatre, NapaThursday, March 29, 8pmuptowntheatrenapa.com

Branford MarsalisNapa Valley Opera House, NapaThursday, March 29, 8pmnvoh.org

Junius Courtney Big BandFreight & Salvage, BerkeleyFriday, March 30, 8pmthefreight.org

Ute Lemper and Vogler QuartetHerbst Theatre, San FranciscoSaturday, March 31, 8pmsfperformances.org

3/1 Sustainable Benicia: Climate Action Plan 6pm Energy Renewables in Benicia: Wind, Solar, Tidal Public education & outreach with focus on energy Benicia Council Chambers, 250 East L Street Constance Beutel, EdD [email protected]

3/2&3/16 Ghost Walk with Donna Raymond & Devin Sisk, Fridays, Main Street Depot 8pm Spooky tales of the paranormal history of Benicia Approx. 2 hours, no children under 10 Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

3/3 Civil War Living History 10am-4pm Over 40 re-enactors present & dressed in Union attire Sponsored by Benicia State Parks Association American Civil War Association First & West G Streets Call Richard Gray 707.704.8043

3/3 Gallery 621 Opening Reception 5-8pm Featuring Jack Ruszel & Hedi Desuyo Exhibit runs from March 1-April 1 621 First Street, Benicia, Thurs-Sun 12-5pm Gallery621.com 707.746.6211

3/3-3/31 Capitol & Fischer-Hanlon House Capitol Tours Weekends only 10am-5pm Fischer-Hanlon tours 1st & 3rd Sundays: 2nd Saturday at 1, 2 and 3pm 115 West G Street, Benicia, 707.745.3385

3/6 First Tuesdays Investment Club Long-standing investment club Meets in Benicia first Tuesday each month For more info contact 707.373.1200

3/7-3/28 Toastmaster’s Group Wednesday evenings 7:30-9pm Learn to speak with confidence in a friendly environment 601 First Street, Suite 100, Benicia Larry Miller 707.745.5694

3/10 Friends of the Library Book Sale 10am-4pm Benicia Library basement, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

3/10 Benicia Plein Air Gallery Reception 4-6pm Featured artist is watercolorist Rolando Barrero 307 First Street, Benicia, Beniciapleinair.com

3/11 The Next Generation, Opening Reception 3-5pm Featuring art from all Benicia schools, grades K-12 Exhibit runs from 3/8 thru 4/1, Thurs-Sun. 12-5pm Arts Benicia Gallery, 991 Tyler Street, #114 Artsbenicia.org 707.747.0131

3/17 Community Blood Drive 1-7pm Donors must be in good health, 17+ yrs, over 110 lbs First Baptist Church, 1055 Southampton Road, Benicia

3/18 Family Art Day 1-3pm Free art activities for the entire family Arts Benicia, 991 Tyler Street, #114 Artsbenicia.org 707.747.0131

3/21 Evening Book Club for Adults 7-8pm Library Doña Benicia Room Benicia Library, 150 East L Street Benicialibrary.org 707.746.4343

3/25 Vallejo Symphony Spring Concert Sunday 3pm "Love, Death, and Dance," Know the Score talk 2pm Lander Hall, Touro University, Mare Island Vallejosymphony.org 707.643.4441

3/31-4/1 Benicia in Bloom Sat. 11am-5pm, Sun. 12-4pm The latest spring trends from merchants & restaurants Downtown merchants and restaurants Beniciamainstreet.org 707.745.9791

Scan for more listings

34 • Benicia Magazine Fashionista

By Christina Strawbridge This month I celebrate sixty years of life and my love affair with fashion. Since I was a child, I was enthralled with clothes and dressing up. My wardrobe choices were often over-the-top and not always suitable for a girl who played with Barbie, but also rode bikes and climbed trees. In the fourth grade, I was invited to a girl's birthday party and the invitation clearly said casual wear. That didn't stop me from wearing a new coral cotton organza dress with tiny flowers appliquéd around the tiered skirt. When I arrived, my friends offered me clothes to change into for outdoor play, but I stubbornly stayed in the dress. This trend continued as I hit puberty and had my first girl-boy party. I wore a madras bodice mini dress with a denim hip hugger skirt. As I welcomed my classmates (including my future husband,) the most popular girl in the class had on the same dress. My mother insisted that I change into a back-up selection to make the girl more comfortable. Nothing doing, I stayed in the dress and kept my distance from Judy Pratt, who looked completely different in our matching outfit. Through the decades, I have experimented with the latest trends in fashion. The "looks" included the mini, the maxi and the midi, all in the same season. In college, it was the body suit and body paint, which gave a reptile effect on Midwestern dry skin. During the same era, I wore both knickers and hot pants, which I paired with denim lace-up boots. The memories are both humorous and enduring. Some of my fashion choices have been disastrous, like the pouf skirt that caught in my underwear at a reception. A waiter tried to warn me but I responded that it was supposed to look like that. With a horrified look he said "I don't think so!" Recently, at a Chamber of Commerce dinner I was introduced and as I stood up and waved, a cluster of tickets was exposed under my arm. I

believe my husband was more embarrassed than I was as I quickly snapped them free. Probably the most memorable wardrobe malfunction and biggest fashion night of my life occurred 10 years ago in London, England. My son Andrew is a James Bond fan. He found out about the royal premier of the 007 movie Die Another Day. It was the 20th Bond movie and the 40th anniversary of the movie franchise. My husband Scott, who can be very persistent, procured 3 tickets. The event was held at the Royal Albert Hall with the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh in attendance, as well as Madonna, James Bond actors and Bond women. For this gala event, I wore a Sue Wong strapless evening gown that had a very full tulle skirt. The bodice was a tight fit, but the night of the premier I was able to zip it up and off we went to our first red carpet event. As we made our way to the balcony of the historic venue, my dress was being stepped on because of its length and layers of fabric. When I sat down the fullness of the skirt engulfed both me and the seat, making for a challenging two hours. The evening was exhilarating: watching the celebrity crowd, the movie, and the Queen, and looking for Princes William and Harry. As the credits rolled, the three of us had to pinch ourselves, realizing that it was indeed the moment of a lifetime. Departing down the stairs, someone stepped on my dress, and my whole back side was exposed as the zipper came apart. The only thing holding the dress together was a tiny clasp. I tried to cover my back with my velvet wrap, but it wasn't wide enough. We found a side exit and I backed my way into the chill of the November air only to find myself in the middle of the celebrity pick-up area and media grandstands. As panic ensued, my gallant son whipped off his tuxedo jacket and put it over my shoulders in a purely James Bond moment. B

Faux PasSix Decades Of Fashion

And

Wardrobe Malfunctions


Welcome to Tosch Dental

Ronald J. Tosch, DDS l 118 West K St., Benicia, CA 94510707.745.2130 l www.toschdental.com

Make an appointment today & meet Dr. Tosch; proudly serving Benicia families for over 25 years.

bleach when scheduled for a routine exam & cleaning

Let us make you feel at home—even in the dental chair!

OFF

Enjoy dinner at a participating Benicia restaurant and donate to the Benicia Library Foundation

Participating RestaurantsFirst Street CaféLucca Bar and GrillSailor Jack’sUnion HotelVenticello’s

March 27 and/or March 28Reservations $50 per person

For Reservations and Information call 707.746.4358

The Benicia Library Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization 20-2884171

T H E B E N I C I A L I B R A R Y F O U N D A T I O N

36 • Benicia Magazine Listening

4852 East 2nd Street, BeniciaOpen M-F 9-5, weekends & evenings

by appointment

707-745-2100www.aqchome.com

FREE VASE, from the renowned Nourot Glass Studios,

with the purchase of your kitchen

AFFORDABLE QUALITYCabinets and Countertops

Contractor’s License # 678979

It’s where you live!

"Building and designing a new kitchen is a stressful task, but once the kitchen was complete, we were extremely satisfied with our choice to go with A�ordable Cabinets. Susy spent endless hours designing and going over each design with us."

—Harry and Gail Benningson

benicia magazine march 2012

Documents

benicia magazine14

benicia magazinebeautiful

benicia legislative

solano pride

solano countycsl

plant nowfind inspirationtest

plant nowfind inspiration707

appointment84 solano