Benicia Magazine February 2026 by Benicia Publishing

Volume 21 Issue 4 February 2026

Joie de Vivre

HOW MARDI GRAS TEACHES US TO EMBRACE LIFE’S RICHNESS AND HUMAN CONNECTION

THE PAIN BEHIND THE JOY On Celebration, Collective Memory, and the Truths We Often Overlook

AMBER CLEMONS From Homegrown Roots to Community Impact

COLLAGE JAM

The Opposite of Lonely

Publisher

Mary Hand

Editor in Chief

Cooper Mickelson

Art Director

Cooper Mickelson

Website Specialist

Dalia Nino

Contributors

Brandon L. Greene Esq. Linda Hastings

Cooper Mickelson

Jean Purnell

Mary Hand

Benicia Magazine Staff Benicia Moms Group

Social Media Specialist

Dalia Nino

Administrative Support Toree McGee

Editorial Assistant

Penny Stell

Cover Photo Courtesy of Cosmos

Adsales@beniciamagazine.com

707.980.1563, Beniciamagazine.com editor@beniciamagazine.com

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.

Wine,

SATURDAY,

6:30

Benicia magazine patrons

Diane Dooley

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The Inn at Benicia Bay

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Penny Stell

Bruehol Benicia Brewing

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"by the power of storytelling, by harmonizing the vibration of everyone, no matter what perspective they come from — collective grief or collective joy — that illusion of separation dissolves,"

-Chloe Zhao

n From the Editor

Without grief, there is no joy. Without loneliness, there is no community. It’s impossible to have the good without also experiencing the bad. Life, emotions, stories—it’s all a circle. Choosing to let go and trusting the current to bring you back home to joy and love allows you to move through the hard stuff with the grace witnessed in nature, as trees drop their leaves every fall to sprout vibrant, fresh growth in the spring. It’s important, in times that feel dark, to remember that we, too, are nature and need to go through these cycles. In this February issue of Benicia Magazine, we wanted to highlight the dichotomy—as well as the kinship—of joy and pain. We open the issue with a piece from Brandon L. Green, Esq. on “The Pain Behind the Joy,” as it relates to Black

Americans’ relationship with celebrations and historical context. We then share a profile on Amber Clemons, a local business owner and dedicated mother who understands the power and importance of community support.

In our Arts and Artists column, Jean Purnell tells us about a new class at Arts Benicia that brings people together through artmaking, socializing, and informal learning. Our readers share their favorite things about Benicia in our “Love Letters to Benicia” article, and Mary Hand highlights the history and exceptionality of New Orleans in her Out and About article. Our feature explores the spirit of Mardi Gras and how this historic celebration teaches us about joy, letting go, unity and inclusivity, and the power of resilience. We also dedicate a page to suggestions for ways you can celebrate Valentine’s Day with your partner, gal pals, best bros, or family this year. Our Booktails pick honors the history of Black-owned bookstores in America, Dinner and a Movie shares a delicious gumbo recipe alongside a comforting and magical movie recommendation, and the Benicia Moms Group celebrates showing up without having it all together while recovering from the holiday season. We sincerely appreciate your participation in this issue of Benicia Magazine, whether you contributed an article, shared your love letter to Benicia, stopped by to read a single piece, or took the time to flip through every page. This publication is nothing without the community that supports it.

Stay connected, stay inspired, and lead with joy.

- Cooper Mickelson Editor-in-chief

Our cover was chosen by our Patreon subscribers! Sign up today to be a part of future decisions at Benicia Magazine.

Out & About

Amber Clemons (p.8)

The Pain Behind the Joy The Pain Behind the Joy

n Brandon L. Greene Esq.

This Martin Luther King Day holds a special resonance for me for a number of reasons. First, it will be the first that I celebrate as a new initiate of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, the fraternity that Dr. King joined while attaining his doctorate degree from Boston University. Both of these achievements have personal resonance for me as I also graduated from Boston University School of Law as a Public Interest Scholar and as a Martin Luther King Social Justice fellow. My entire life, I have seen Dr. King’s name as there is typically a MLK Jr. Drive running through every Black neighborhood. The ubiquity of his name and the sanitized manner in which he is spoken about now, neither reflects the hatred directed towards him during the course of his life, nor does it match the vitriol directed at him towards his death. Growing up, we

"The ubiquity of his name and the sanitized manner in which he is spoken about now, neither reflects the hatred directed towards him during the course of his life, nor does it match the vitriol directed at him towards his death."

would often attend the Martin Luther King Jr. parade, never fully understanding the work it took for the national holiday named after him to come to fruition. Of course we knew that we got the day off, and yes, every school I attended discussed him, but I don’t recall any deep dive on the 15-year campaign it took for the holiday honoring him to come to be. According to the Smithsonian, “the legislation to recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day was first introduced just four days after his assassination on April 4, 1968. Still, it would take 15 years of persistence by civil rights activists for the holiday to be approved by the federal government and an additional 17 years for it to be recognized in all 50 states.” I was so ignorant of this history

that it wasn’t until I was watching the recent Dave Chappelle comedy special, that I learned that the Stevie Wonder “Happy Birthday song” that is so much of a staple of Black joy and celebration, is an anthem specifically dedicated to honoring Dr. King and his legacy.

I have thought a lot recently about how close and yet how disconnected we can be from our history, how the truths of our country and its true legacy can be right in front of us but still not clear enough for us to see. I have wondered

"I have thought a lot recently about how close and yet how disconnected we can be from our history, how the truths of our country and its true legacy can be right in front of us but still not clear enough for us to see."

how many times a day, in how many places is the birthday song sung by folks like me who have no idea of its significance. How much more powerful would it have been, all of those times we previously, loudly and joyously belted out that song, if we knew that the happiness we were experiencing in that moment was directly connected to the legacy of struggle and achievement. Like a great many truths of our country, this one was just beneath the surface, I don’t know that I have ever sung anything other than the chorus and

despite my listening to the song dozens of times, I have never quite heard it until now. In that way, the song is the perfect metaphor for the recent racial reckoning that wasn’t, Black folks and our voices were never quite heard, then there were mass protests and for a second we thought the masses were ready to hear us. People heard the chorus and chants of Black Lives Matter and reacted with mass marketing and promises they would never keep. It became clear that many of those self-proclaimed allies never absorbed the substance or understood the depth of what they were witnessing; the pain behind the joy. They mistook a movement for a moment, ignoring the trauma behind the triumph and the history behind the hope.

"They mistook

movement for a moment, ignoring the trauma behind the triumph and the history behind the hope."

Let us declare that from now on, we won’t celebrate Dr. King without actually seeing him, without understanding that this is more than just a day off, this is a day that took over a decade of sustained effort and struggle to be. That his loved ones had to fight through their own grief so that my loved ones and I could sing “Happy Birthday,” yearly, totally oblivious to that sacrifice. Never again…

I just never understood

How a man who died for good

Could not have a day that would Be set aside for his recognition

Because it should never be

Just because some cannot see

The dream as clear as he

That they should make it become an illusion

And we all know everything

That he stood for time will bring

For in peace, our hearts will sing

Thanks to Martin Luther King

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday

Stevie Wonder, "Happy Birthday," Hotter Than July (1980) B

From Homegrown Roots to Community Impact

Amber Clemons and the Soul of West Coast Beauty Co.

n Benicia Magazine Staff

For Amber Clemons, founder of West Coast Beauty Co., beauty has never been just about aesthetics. It’s about connection, care, and creating light, especially during life’s hardest moments. With nearly two decades in the beauty industry, Amber’s work is deeply intertwined with the Benicia community she calls home, a place that has shaped both her career and her purpose.

“Benicia has truly been the foundation of my journey,” she shares. “I was born and raised here, and my family’s roots run deep in this community, so the support has always felt incredibly personal.” That sense of belonging has been present from the very beginning.

“From my very first clients to the relationships I’ve built with local businesses, schools, and families, Benicia has shown up for me in a way that goes beyond business—it’s been about trust, loyalty, and genuine connection.”

That unwavering support gave Amber the confidence to grow and evolve.

“The community has embraced every chapter, whether it was supporting pop-ups, referring friends and family, or encouraging me to expand my services and take the brand on the road.” Today, she describes Benicia as “my testing ground, my cheer squad, and my home base.”

“I want every person who walks into West Coast Beauty Co. to feel seen, comfortable, and genuinely cared for,”

Inside West Coast Beauty Co., that same sense of care is present in every moment.

“I want every person who walks into West Coast Beauty Co. to feel seen, comfortable, and genuinely cared for,” Amber says.

“I’ve built the space around connection, not pressure.” Her approach centers on

listening, education, and inclusivity. “At the end of the day, it’s about more than the service itself. It’s about creating a space where people feel empowered, supported, and proud to support a local business that truly values them.”

That philosophy reflects her belief in the power of small businesses. “Small businesses are personal in a way larger chains just can’t replicate,” she explains. “We know our customers by name, we celebrate their milestones, and we show up for school events, fundraisers, and local causes.” To Amber, supporting local is about relationships, not transactions. “When you support a small business here, you’re supporting a neighbor, a family, and the heartbeat of the community.”

“At the end of the day, it’s about more than the service itself. It’s about creating a space where people feel empowered, supported, and proud to support a local business that truly values them.”

Her commitment to collaboration extends beyond her studio through mentoring and consulting other beauty professionals. “I truly believe there’s room for all of us to succeed, and collaboration will always be more powerful than competition,” she says. “I don’t win unless the other people around me are winning too.” That mindset has become a cornerstone of her consulting work, which she describes as “about confidence, support, and sharing the lessons I’ve learned so others don’t have to navigate everything alone.”

Amber’s recent rebrand reflects both professional and personal growth. “The rebrand was inspired by growth— both personally and professionally,” she explains. “West Coast Beauty Co. represents confidence, refinement, and experience, while still staying grounded and approachable.” For her clients, it’s an evolution, not a departure. “It’s a familiar place they trust, just elevated— more intentional, more aligned, and more expansive.”

That grounding became especially important as Amber and her family navigated one of the most challenging chapters of their lives. “Our family’s journey with epilepsy completely reshaped my perspective and my purpose,” she shares. When her youngest son, Clayton, was diagnosed, advocacy

became unavoidable. “As his mom, I had to learn quickly, ask hard questions, and push for answers.” The experience revealed how isolating epilepsy can be. “Education saves lives. Awareness creates safety. And community support gives families strength.”

Today, Amber channels that experience into action. “I’ve spent time in local schools teaching seizure safety and epilepsy awareness,” she says, and has worked with both the Epilepsy Foundation of Northern California and the Epilepsy Foundation. Her motivation is simple yet powerful: “If sharing our story helps even one family feel less alone or helps a community better understand seizure disorders, then it’s worth it.”

At its core, West Coast Beauty Co. is also about restoring confidence. “For me, confidence is about so much more than appearance—it’s about how people feel when they walk back into their lives,” Amber explains. “When someone feels good about themselves, they show up differently—for their families, their jobs, and their community.”

“When someone feels good about themselves, they show up differently—for their families, their jobs, and their community.”

That belief is rooted in family values passed down through generations. “My family is the foundation of everything I do,” she says, citing her grandfather’s deep commitment to public service in Benicia and her father’s dedication to the city. Her husband, Nathan, has been a constant source of encouragement. “He believed in me before I fully believed in myself, and that kind of support changes everything.”

Amber continues to show up locally through collaborations, community events, and service. “There’s a strong sense of camaraderie here—we celebrate each other’s wins, show up during challenges, and understand that when one local business thrives, it strengthens the entire community.” Moments of pride often come from everyday interactions. “Being trusted during such personal experiences is something I never take lightly.”

“There’s a strong sense of camaraderie here—we celebrate each other’s wins, show up during challenges, and understand that when one local business thrives, it strengthens the entire community.”

“My hope is for West Coast Beauty Co. to continue growing into a trusted, go-to destination for all things beauty within our community—while staying grounded in the values of connection, care, and service that built it from the beginning.”

Looking ahead, Amber remains hopeful and grounded. “My heart remains firmly rooted in Benicia,” she says. “My hope is for West Coast Beauty Co. to continue growing into a trusted, go-to destination for all things beauty within our community—while staying grounded in the values of connection, care, and service that built it from the beginning.”

In a world that often feels heavy, Amber Clemons is committed to creating personal and communal spaces where people can feel supported, celebrated, and a little more joyful.

For our full interview with Amber Clemons, visit our Patreon page where we’ve shared her answers in full with both paid and unpaid subscribers. B

COLLAGE JAM

The Opposite of Lonely

n Jean Purnell

A new class at Arts Benicia is bringing people together twice a month for artmaking, socializing, and informal learning. It’s called Collage Jam, an event where people gather to create collages using provided or personal materials. In addition to being a place to create art, Collage Jam fosters community, creativity, fun, improvisation, and connection.

The class originated from a

"In addition to being a place to create art, Collage Jam fosters community, creativity, fun, improvisation, and connection."

discussion after two artists each gave an informal demonstration on collage techniques. “You know, it would be really nice if we got together regularly for artmaking and learning like this,” one said.

“We started it in July of 2025,” says Peg Jackson, one of the three facilitators who gets supplies ready before class. “We have everything you need – substrates, scissors, tools, glue sticks, and papers. Some people bring things they want to use and things to share. Beth Grimm, [long-time Benicia artist] was moving and gave us her huge stash of supplies, enough to launch the class. Her donation was a fantastic way to start and inspired me to share my stuff as well. At first, I was hesitant to share some of my favorite things with others, but the class helped me see

“Collage Jam feels like recess for grown-ups,”

these things as less precious and freed me up to go ahead and play with things I love.”

Collage is an art form in which an artist overlaps pieces of material, such as photographs, fabric, colored and textured paper, and other types of mixed media. The term collage comes from the French term coller, meaning “to glue.” Each artist has their own way of choosing, arranging, and affixing the materials.

Collage Jam currently meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month at Arts Benicia, located at 1 Commandants Lane, from 1:00 to 3:30 pm. Members pay $100 for four sessions, while non-members pay $120. Vicki Dennis and Merry Gregg are the other two facilitators. There is no instructor.

“Collage Jam feels like recess for grown-ups,” says Merry Gregg. “Snip, shuffle, surprise yourself. First-timers welcome. Curiosity required. Leave perfection at the door!”

Peg adds, “Mostly it's around ten or so people that come each time, although we once had seventeen! You have plenty of room to spread out. Nobody’s really teaching, but there's lots of give-and-take, and we share a lot of information and encouragement. Both men and women are regulars.

“Our conversations are sometimes about the art, and sometimes just about life. I love the buzz of

conversation and laughter around me. A lot of times when we do art it feels kind of lonely, and this is the opposite of that. It's just such positive energy as we get to look at what other people create. It's everything that I had hoped it would be and I really look forward to going every time.”

"A lot of times when we do art it feels kind of lonely, and this is the opposite of that. It's just such positive energy as we get to look at what other people create. It's everything that I had hoped it would be and I really look forward to going every time.”

Vicki Dennis jumped on board when Peg asked her to participate. "I immediately loved the concept. It's great to gather with other artists and create art in community with each other. It's different from a class or workshop, more relaxed in many ways, and feels like a collage artist clubhouse! We work on our pieces individually, but we share ideas, techniques, and materials. It is fun, inspiring and we end up with some really good work."

For more information about Collage Jam, visit https://artsbenicia.org/ collage-jam/ B

Love Letters to From Our Readers

n Benicia Magazine Staff and Our Readers

I never imagined living in such a special town filled with scenic sites but more importantly its the residing hearts. It is refreshing to go just about anywhere in town and see townspeople that have become first neighbors and then dear friends. It's a joy to see many come together to celebrate life together, work on community projects, explore parks and trails and watch nature thrive. The many sights and sounds are the heartbeat of my life here.

- Julia Ecker

I used to hate how small Benicia is, and still do at times, but I have to admit that seeing the same faces everyday can be comforting when I’m extra stressed. I don’t know if I’ll stay here forever, but I’ll enjoy the comfort while I can.

-Anonymous (16)

Coffee shops and live music.

-Anonymous (42)

I love our dedication to supporting each other. Even though we don’t all share the same views, we do a pretty great job at finding ways to connect and uplift each other.

- Cooper Mickelson

The beautiful views! -Anonymous

The water! -Anonymous

The small-town feeling and strong sense of community—how we genuinely show up and help each other.

- Penny Stell

I’ve seen this town change a lot over the years, but it’s always kept its small town charm and neighborly friendliness. I’ve never felt lonely here.

-Anonymous (76)

It’s a bubble of calm within the wider, more fast-paced Bay Area. - Anonymous

The high percentage of small businesses! It’s what makes us, as a town and individuals, unique!

- Anonymous (33)

As someone who likes to make art, Benicia gives me plenty of inspiring visuals.

-Anonymous (42) B

Art by Julia Ecker

Party with a Purpose

Soroptimist 8th Annual Wine Tasting Event and 50th Anniversary of Soroptimist International of Benicia

March 14, 2026 | 6:30 - 10 PM | Benicia Clocktower

n Soroptimist of Benicia

Party? At the Clocktower on March 14th, 2026, 6:30-10:00 pm.

Purpose? To sustain Soroptimist International of Benicia’s ongoing support of women and girls, and to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the founding of the club.

Come join us for the social gathering of the year in the magically transformed, delightfully elegant, Clocktower Wine Cellar. Since a party is a gathering of guests typically involving eating, drinking, and entertainment, you won’t be disappointed. The evening will feature tastings of wine from time-honored regional wineries, such as Caymus, Joseph Phelps, and Trotter 1/16, and Champagne from JCB.

Come discover a wine that perhaps you’ve never tasted. As Benjamin Franklin once said, “The discovery of wine is of greater moment than the discovery of a constellation. The universe is too full of stars.”

As a bonus, guests can enjoy tastings of bourbon and beer from Mare Island Brewing. Want more to please your palate? There will be delectable appetizers from Bambino’s, Italian food at its finest. Desserts too. To top it all off, for your listening and dancing pleasure, there will be music by Uncommonwealth, back by popular demand.

The evening will include a collection of raffle prizes and fabulous Silent Auction items to bid on, including a stay in a Las Vegas condo and a stay in a home in Anderson Valley wine country. There will be a wine pull, where guests can purchase the opportunity to pull a hidden bottle of wine from the wall, with the chance of winning a bottle of wine valued at $100.

Soroptimist is an international volunteer organization whose members use their collective power to provide women and girls with access to the education and training they need to achieve economic empowerment. Soroptimist of Benicia has empowered hundreds of local women and girls over the last 50 years. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of our club, we are honored to be able to continue this work, providing a wide range of local projects, programs, scholarships, and awards for women and girls. Proceeds from Party with a Purpose, the club’s major fundraiser of the year, will provide the needed funds.

This year will be especially crucial as Soroptimist of Benicia partners with SafeQuest Solano to raise funds to remodel a house that was recently acquired from the City of Benicia. The house will be used as a transitional safe house for those who have experienced domestic violence, sex trafficking, or sexual abuse. This “House of Hope” will require significant funding but will bring much-needed space.

In addition to this project, Soroptimist of Benicia supports multiple scholarships at Benicia and Liberty High Schools, supports the “Live Your Dream” award for women heads of household returning to school or for skill training. The club will sponsor a literacy program for all 5th grade girls in the City of Benicia with a one-of-a-kind literacy event. Soroptimist sponsors an “S” Club at Benicia High School where girls are mentored to instill within them a desire for volunteerism while providing an opportunity for growth and leadership. We provide supplies (needed everyday items that are not covered by other social programs) for the SCOOP closet at the Family Resource Center at the Community Center.

As with most non-profit organizations, community support is vital in helping Soroptimist continue these programs and services.

Come enjoy Party with a Purpose on March 14, 6:30-10 PM at the Benicia Clocktower, 1189 Washington St.

Tickets are $85, available from any Soroptimist member, at Benicia Main Street, and on Eventbrite.com. B

Joiede Vivr

bordante à C h aque Ins

vreHow Mardi Gras Teaches Us to Embrace

Life’s Richness and Human Connection

n Cooper Mickelson

Life can feel heavy; in fact, it is heavy. With Breaking News notifications lighting up our phones at all hours and photo updates from friends being interrupted by posts that fill us with dread and anxiety, it is difficult to find the light, joyous moments and even harder to hold on to them.

There’s no easy way to shut out the causes of our stress, especially during a time when staying informed is so important and escaping the constant noise is nearly impossible. But together we can prioritize the good times and allow them to heal and revitalize us, strengthening our resolve against the difficult moments when they inevitably arrive.

February is a wonderful month to begin shifting your priorities toward joy, togetherness, and resilience as we get the opportunity to celebrate a holiday built on these ideals.

Mardi Gras is a tradition that dates back thousands of years to pagan celebrations of Spring and fertility. When Christianity arrived in Rome, they incorporated these traditions into their relatively new faith rather than dismantling them. This eventually led to Mardi Gras becoming associated with the tradition of lent, giving people the opportunity to feast and party before the long weeks of fasting and penance began.

The first American celebration of Mardi Gras occurred on March 3rd of 1699 when French explorers Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville and Sieur de Bienville landed near present-day New Orleans. They held a small celebration and named their landing spot Point du Mardi Gras. In the following decades, New Orleans and other French colonies began to mark this holiday with street parties, masked balls, and extravagant dinners. The Spanish put an end to this tradition when they took control of New Orleans, but Mardi Gras was reborn when Louisiana became a U.S. state in 1812; a testament to how this holiday resonated with so many, making it difficult to eradicate.

There are many key aspects of the Mardi Gras spirit that are needed in our current times of division and outrage.

Joy and Letting Go

Mardi Gras focuses on heavy revelry, music, dance, indulgence, and joy. This is no surprise as the origins of the holiday are linked to ancient festivals honoring Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, fertility, theatre, ecstasy, madness, and ritual frenzy. This practice of allowing movement and indulgence to help us let go of negative emotions and stress is found in countless religious and cultural traditions from the “Shaking Quakers” symbolic dances to the African traditions of Candomble and Santeria. Moving our bodies releases endorphins like dopamine and serotonin, helps shift our brainwaves from active beta waves to the theta waves associated with deep meditation, creativity, and intuition, and our nervous systems from fight or fright to calm. When done in groups, dancing fosters deep connections and creates a sense of unity.

Ways to integrate this into your everyday life:

Start your day by dancing alone to your current favorite song.

Take a Zumba or Jazzercise class with friends or strangers.

Go out dancing to live music at The Rellik, Lucca, The Cafe at the Inn, or one of our other lively, local venues.

Unity and Inclusivity

Mardi Gras is a rare time when people from all walks of life come together, sharing plastic beads and rich food, and wearing masks to symbolize equality and community. During a Mardi Gras parade you’ll see a blend of history, art, and creativity in the costumes, local traditions, and sounds. One of the most mysterious, fascinating, and colorful pieces of New Orleans’ cultural quilt that effectively portrays this tradition of community and equality belongs to Mardi Gras Indians, also referred to as Black Masking Indians. A unique and historic subculture of New Orleans, Black Masking Indians and their traditions date back to the 1800s when Native Americans provided safe refuge and a sense of community for runaway slaves. Black Masking Indian culture is influenced by both ancestral enslaved Africans and the friendship forged with Native Americans.

Ways to integrate this into your everyday life:

Connect with a stranger you wouldn’t typically initiate a conversation with.

Visit a museum dedicated to a culture other than your own.

Read books, watch films, and listen to music created by artists of another race, culture, nationality, or sexuality than yourself.

Resilience

Mardi Gras has proven itself to be inextinguishable, finding new ways to celebrate even when the holiday is challenged or traditional events are canceled. Whether we look at the adapting traditions from ancient pagan roots to European Catholic customs, the post-disaster resilience shown after Hurricane Katrina, or the overall practice of defiance through joy, this ability of Mardi Gras to transform rather than allow itself to disappear demonstrates perseverance.

Ways to integrate this into your everyday life: Instead of giving up, consider a new approach.

When faced with a difficult season of life, choose to lead with joy, love, and kindness rather than fear, anger, and violent words.

Give others grace by keeping in mind how we are all constantly transforming into new versions of ourselves, and this isn’t always a smooth or perfect process.

In short, embrace life’s richness and human connection through joie de vivre whenever you’re given the chance and “Let the Good Times Roll!”

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

Is all of this Mardi Gras talk igniting a craving for New Orleans-style food? Here are a few local spots to get a good beignet or poor boy sandwich!

The Workshop

Located just a few blocks from First Street, The Workshop is a down-to-earth walk-up spot serving New Orleans-inspired cuisine with a California twist. Owned and operated by longtime Benicia residents, and reunited high school sweethearts, Danny and Naomi, the restaurant has been a local favorite for more than a decade. Chef Danny Glassmaker spent 20 years in New Orleans honing his craft before returning home to Benicia, where he and Naomi fell back in love and opened The Workshop. Locals have been chowing down on their unbeatable Cajun-Creole dishes ever since. Grab a po’boy to go, or enjoy a bowl of jambalaya on their outdoor patio next time the craving hits.

Souley Vegan

If you’re looking for plant-based Louisiana creole cuisine and don’t mind a trip over the bridge, Souley Vegan is once again up and running in Oakland. Located in Jack London Square, Souley Vegan has a seemingly endless menu of delicious bites like Ain’t Gator Po’Boy, Okra Gumbo, and Beignets. B

Celebrating Every Kind of Love

Palentine’s Day in Benicia

n Benicia Magazine Staff

Valentine’s Day is classically reserved for romantic couples, but each year we see more friends, families, and coworkers setting aside time to celebrate togetherness during this holiday of hearts.

Whether you’re planning an outing or a cozy night in with your spouse, best girlfriends, bros, siblings, mom, or favorite coworkers, we’ve gathered a few local ideas to inspire you. Some events require tickets and may sell out quickly, so we recommend planning ahead. If you attend any of these events (or plan a night in using our suggestions), be sure to tag us on Instagram; we’d love to fill our stories with love this month.

Looking for an outing?

Pressed Flower Frame Workshop

Hosted by: Beautified Finds

Where: The Filling Station Goods & Gifts

When: February 5 | 6–8 pm

For: Couples, friends, or family

Create and learn the art of pressed flowers by making an 8x8 framed piece that you can keep or gift to a loved one.

Tickets: thefillingstationgoods.com

Valentine’s Dinner & Mug Making

Where: Provisions and Vallejo Clay

When: February 14 | Mug Making at 4:30 pm | Dinner at 6 pm

For: Couples, friends, or family

Enjoy a four-course dinner with an optional wine pairing at Provisions, with the option to add a mug-making class at Vallejo Clay beforehand. Learn to make a mug from prerolled slabs of clay, add texture, and attach a handle—then head to dinner with your handmade piece in mind.

Tickets required: vtownprovisions.com

Valentine’s Night with Disney Magic

Where: Drift Benicia

When: February 14 | 3:30, 5, or 6:30 pm

For: Couples, friends, or family

Step into a playful, storybook-style evening inspired by the charm and whimsy of Lady and the Tramp. Enjoy homemade pasta with giant 10-foot noodles, classic meatballs, Caesar salad, and warm breadsticks—all served at a decorated table set against a dreamy recreation of the iconic alley scene. A live accordion player fills the air with nostalgic Italian melodies, bringing that cinematic sweetness to life.

Perfect for young couples, fun-loving partners, and families with little ones, this one-night-only event blends romance, laughter, and a touch of Disney-style wonder.

Tickets required: https://order.toasttab.com/online/driftbenicia-366-1st-street

Pretty in Pink Galentine’s Day Brunch

Where: Village 360 | 4949 Suisun Valley Rd, Fairfield

When: February 15 | 11 am–1 pm

For: Families with small children

Grab your besties or bring the whole family for a magical Galentine’s celebration at Village 360 Winery. Enjoy delicious treats, princess photo sessions, crafts, sparkles, and all things pink and red—designed to create unforgettable memories together.

Tickets required.

Broentine’s Brewery & Taproom Crawl

Where: Benicia, Vallejo, Mare Island

When: Whenever!

For: Best bros

Spend an afternoon hopping between your favorite breweries and taprooms, sampling beers and sharing appetizers along the way. End the night at a sports bar (our pick this month is Bottom of the Fifth) for dinner and whatever game is on.

Suggested stops: Bruehol Benicia Brewing, Mare Island Brewing Co. First Street Taphouse, Vallejo Brewing Company, Hopulent, and Mare Island Brewing Co. Coal Shed Brewery.

Want to plan a night in?

Host a “Favorite Things” Party

Invite a handful of friends over for bubbles and snacks. Each guest brings one of their favorite things—one for each attendee (for example, six copies of a favorite book if there are six guests). Exchange gifts so everyone leaves with a collection of their friends’ favorite things.

Muffins & Mimosas

Host friends for a mimosa bar and baked treats while working on a low-key craft like friendship bracelets, coloring pages, or building mini flower LEGO sets.

Punch Cards, Takeout & Movie Night

Invite friends over to make punch cards for New Year’s goals (for example, “Read 10 books,” “Take 12 yoga classes,” or “Complete 10 no-buy days”), order takeout from your favorite Benicia restaurant, and settle in for a classic romantic comedy.

Video Game Marathon

Host a Broentine’s Day video game marathon by breaking the night into short rounds: warm-up games like Mario Kart or Rocket League, a main competitive tournament (FIFA, Madden, 2K, or Smash Bros.), and chaotic crowd-pleasers like Jackbox or Gang Beasts. Create a simple bracket, add lowstakes challenges, keep food controller-safe (pizza, wings, snacks), and crown a very unserious champion at the end.

We hope you use this holiday as an opportunity to show a little extra love to your partners, friends, and family; and to spend meaningful time with the people who matter most. B

NEW ORLEANS NEW ORLEANS

WHERE HISTORY, FLAVOR, AND CELEBRATION MEET

New Orleans is a city unlike any other in the United States—a place where centuries of history, irresistible food, and an unshakable spirit of celebration come together with the rhythm of jazz. Known affectionately as the Big Easy, New Orleans invites visitors not just to see it, but to feel it. From its storied past to its legendary festivals, this is a city that truly lives by the motto: Let the Good Times Roll.

Photo by Michael Van Auken

Founded in 1718 by the French, New Orleans grew under French and Spanish rule before becoming part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. That layered history is visible everywhere, from the wrought-iron balconies of the French Quarter to the Creole cottages and grand antebellum homes lining its streets. The city’s location along the Mississippi River made it one of the most important ports in North America, shaping its economy, culture, and diversity. African, Caribbean, French, Spanish, and American influences blended here, creating a cultural identity that is rich, complex, and uniquely New Orleans.

Music is the heartbeat of the city, and New Orleans is widely regarded as the birthplace of jazz. Legends like Louis Armstrong, Jelly Roll Morton, and Sidney Bechet helped define a sound that spread around the world. Today, live music spills out of clubs, street corners, and festivals year-round, from intimate jazz performances to brass bands leading spontaneous second-line parades. Music here isn’t just entertainment—it’s a way of life.

Food in New Orleans is nothing short of iconic. Creole and Cajun cuisines reflect the city’s multicultural roots, delivering bold flavors and soulful comfort. Gumbo, thick with okra or filé and packed with seafood or sausage, tells a story in every bowl. Jambalaya

blends rice, spices, and meats into a dish as lively as the city itself. Po’boys—overstuffed sandwiches on crisp French bread—range from fried shrimp to roast beef dripping with gravy. And no visit is complete without beignets, the pillowy, powdered-sugar-dusted pastries best enjoyed hot with a café au lait. In New Orleans, eating is a celebration, and every meal feels like an event.

Perhaps nothing captures the spirit of the city more than Mardi Gras. Far more than a single day, Mardi Gras is a season leading up to Fat Tuesday, filled with parades, masquerade balls, and neighborhood traditions. Elaborate floats roll through the streets, riders toss beads and trinkets to cheering crowds, and marching bands keep the energy high. Each krewes’ parade has its own personality, blending spectacle, satire, and centuries-old customs. While Mardi Gras is famous for its revelry, it is also deeply rooted in community, craftsmanship, and shared joy.

Beyond the celebrations, New Orleans is a city of resilience. It has faced hurricanes, floods, and hardships, yet time and again, it rebuilds with creativity and determination. That resilience is reflected in the warmth of its people, who welcome visitors with open arms and an easy smile.

To walk through New Orleans is to step into a living story—one told through music, food, history, and laughter. It’s a city that embraces life fully, honors its past, and celebrates the present with unmatched enthusiasm. In New Orleans, joy is not reserved for special occasions; it’s a daily practice. After all, this is a place that knows how to live, love, and always—Let the Good Times Roll. Laissez les bons temps rouler! B

IN NEW ORLEANS, JOY IS NOT RESERVED FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS; IT’S A DAILY PRACTICE. AFTER ALL, THIS IS A PLACE THAT KNOWS HOW TO LIVE, LOVE, AND ALWAYS—LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL. LAISSEZ LES BONS TEMPS ROULER!

n Cooper Mickelson

Black-owned bookstores have been at the forefront of countless political, community, cultural, and literacy movements throughout our country’s history. From the first recorded Black-owned bookstore in America, opened in 1834, to the hundreds that have opened and closed their doors in the nearly 200 years since, these spaces haven’t just been places to pick up popular titles, they’ve been cornerstones of activism, resistance, and education.

devoured every one without hesitation.

Black-Owned doesn’t stop at bookstores; Adams also explores the roles of Black distributors, publishing houses, editors, and authors who played major parts in the success, growth, and celebration of Black books.

Black-Owned The Revolutionary Life of the Black Bookstore

By Char Adams

Science-Fiction/Fantasy:

The King Must Die by Kemi Ashing-Giwa

Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler

Historical Fiction:

Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Murray

Literary Fiction: Ibis by Justin Haynes

Beloved by Toni Morrison

Nonfiction:

Char Adams is a journalist and celebrated storyteller whose writing on race and identity has appeared in The New York Times, The New Republic, Oprah Daily, Vice, Teen Vogue, Bustle, and more. Her latest work, BlackOwned, dives deep into the living history of Black bookstores and celebrates the many vibrant and dedicated individuals who have led the way for the Black bookstores of today.

Considering the impact Black bookstores have had on every generation of Americans since the early 1800s, it’s surprising that Adams’s book is the first of its kind. No other author or reporter has taken on the massive and exciting project of gathering what is known about the history of these independent shops into one cohesive volume.

The book itself is meticulously researched and filled with stories written with an almost cinematic flair. Opening Black-Owned felt like stepping into a museum of stories, each one sparking a new flame of curiosity about the people, places, and events that shaped them. Each chapter could have been its own 300-page book, and I would have

While reading Black-Owned, I gained a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped history yet received little recognition or reward. The book opened my eyes to the profound impact Black bookstores have had on the indie bookstore culture we love so much. Independent bookstores as we know them today wouldn’t exist without the Black-owned bookstores that paved the way through their commitment to creating sanctuaries, organizing spaces, and lifelines for their communities.

Adams beautifully illustrates how Black bookstores function as true third spaces and how they have consistently centered and amplified Black voices, even when doing so wasn’t popular or profitable.

If you love books, bookstores, and community, you’ll want to pick up BlackOwned as soon as possible. Purchase your copy from Bookshop Benicia or Marcus Books (a long-beloved Blackowned bookstore in Oakland), or place a hold through the Benicia Public Library.

Need more reading recommendations for Black History Month (and beyond)? You can find a list of the most recommended books from Black bookstore owners at the back of Black-Owned, or explore the titles below for some of my favorite books I read in 2025.

The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America by Richard Rothstein B

Booktails' Cocktail of the Month

Harlem Renaissance

Ingredients:

2 oz Cognac

1/4 oz Simple Syrup

1/2 oz Cold Filtered Water

2 Dashes Orange Bitters

2 Dashes Angostura Bitters

Fresh Mint (garnish Lime Wedge (garnish)

Preparation:

Stir cognac, simple syrup, filtered water, and bitters into a Yarai mixing glass and strain into a chilled rocks glass with no ice. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint to represent the cultural and artistic flowering that occurred during this time and a lime wedge.

Please scan For membershi P inquiries

nTracy L. Bergier

Coming off the holidays, many of us feel a quiet shift. The decorations come down. The calendars open up. The energy changes. After weeks of gatherings, expectations, and movement, January often invites us to slow down, whether we plan to or not.

This is where community matters most. There is a common assumption that gathering requires effort, preparation, or a version of ourselves that is polished and presentable. But the most meaningful moments of connection rarely happen when everything feels put together. They happen when people show up as they are. A little tired. A little quieter. Still finding their footing after a busy season. Being gathered in good company means having a place where showing up is enough. Where no one is expected to entertain, explain, or perform. Where conversation can flow easily or not at all. Where presence matters more than participation.

At Benicia Moms Group, we see this reflected in the simplest moments. A small group around a table. A shared activity that keeps hands busy and expectations low. A warm meal that encourages people to linger without agenda. These are the spaces where connection feels natural again.

As we settle into the slower rhythm as the new year kicks off, staying in can be its own form of gathering. Not as a retreat, but as a reset.

stay- i n c raft:

i ntention c andle Jars

This quiet, reflective craft creates warmth without requiring conversation.

Materials

• Small glass jars

• Tea lights or votive candles

• Paper, twine, or ribbon

• Pens or markers

Wrap each jar with paper and write a word, intention, or phrase that feels grounding for the season ahead. Place a candle inside and light it during a gathering or at home. It serves as a simple reminder that warmth and calm are often something we create together.

stay- i n r eci P e: c lassic baked Ziti

A comforting dish meant to be shared slowly, without ceremony. (Serves: 6)

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti or penne pasta

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 jar marinara sauce

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup grated Parmesan

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cook pasta according to package directions and drain. Stir pasta with olive oil and marinara sauce. Layer half the pasta in a baking dish, add ricotta and mozzarella, then repeat. Top with Parmesan and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until

Serve warm with a salad and garlic bread. Enjoy without

the new year does not ask us to do more. it asks us to return to ourselves and to each other, gently. gathered in good com Pany, without having it all together, is often exactly what we need.

n Movie Magic

Hustle

My Neighbor Totoro

2022 Sports/Drama

Rated R for language

1998 Fantasy/Adventure

1 hr, 57 min

86 min | G

Streaming on Netflix

This delightful tale features two sisters who move with their father to an old country house to be near their ailing mother who is in the hospital. Adventure ensues in the wondrous forest inhabited by spirits. This family film is made for the world we should live in, rather than the one we occupy. No bad guys. No fighting. As Roger Ebert said, "A world where if you meet a strange towering creature in the forest, you curl up on its tummy and have a nap." Lovingly crafted, it will make you smile again and again.

My Neighbor Totoro has won numerous awards and

is widely regarded as one of the greatest animated films of all time. Totoro also serves as the mascot for the highly acclaimed Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli. The director, Hayao Miyazaki, is considered one of the most accomplished filmmakers in the history of animation.

There are forest nymphs of all sizes, a magic "Cat Bus" and an iconic cuddly character named Totoro. The Japanese animation is simple and wondrous providing a nurturing experience for all ages. Settle in, relax and let your imagination take you away to a friendly forest, full of love and giggles.

Movie Magic gives this film 4 1/2 Moons out of 5. B

Gumbo YaYa

4 generous servings

n Gourmet Gracie

Mardi Gras 2026, also known as Fat Tuesday, is on Tuesday, February 17, and marks the end of the Carnival season before Lent. Celebrations have been happening since early January and continue until Lent arrives.

Here is a very special recipe from Gourmet Gracie's vault of epicurean delights. Mr. B's restaurant, a member of the famous Brennan restaurant family, has been open in the New Orleans French Quarter since 1979 and continues to serve their delicious Gumbo YaYa. This is an adaptation that has been enhanced over time.

Ingredients:

1/4 c. Vegetable oil

3 tbsp. Flour

1 Medium white onion; chopped

1 Medium green pepper; chopped

1 lb. Andouille sausage (preferably Aidell's); sliced

1 c. Cooked, diced chicken

1 tbsp Butter

2 tsp. Gumbo filet

2 c. Chicken stock

Preparation:

Make the roux: In a heavy saucepan, preferably cast iron, heat the oil until glimmering. Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, until very dark brown, taking care not to burn. Remove from heat and set aside.

In another saucepan, sauté andouille sausage, onion and green bell pepper in the butter for approximately 10 minutes. Add in 2 cups

of good quality chicken stock and simmer for 10 minutes. Let the mixture come to a steady boil. Stir in roux and let simmer for 20 minutes. Add chicken. Salt and pepper to taste.

Dissolve the gumbo filet in 1/2 cup of water. Add to soup, simmer for 10 minutes and serve with cooked Uncle Ben's converted rice. Gracie uses a 1/2 cup measure to place rice on top of each gumbo serving. Scatter fresh parsley or sprinkle with paprika if you'd like.

Note: The most critical part of this recipe is the roux. Patience! Stir continuously over medium heat with the goal of cooking as long as possible for the darkest brown, just before burning. Paul Prudhomme calls the roux, liquid napalm--be careful!

Wear your best gold, green & purple MardiGras colors and soak up the Louisiana spirit of community and togetherness. The recipe is easily doubled or tripled for your next neighborhood get together.

Laissez bon temps rouler-Let the good times roll!!! B

February Events

February

Wine & Chocolate Walk

February

Benicia Benicia Lions Club 52nd Annual Crab Feed

Benicia Clock Tower | 1189 Washington St.

Benicia Lions Club 52nd Annual Crab Feed. Enjoy Great Food, DJ, Dancing, and a no-host bar. Enjoy great food and support your community. Does not include processing fees and sales taxes. No People of Doggie Bags - No Outside Food -No REFUNDS - $15 Corkage Fee TICKETS: $85

February 7

Benicia Old Timers Baseball Crab Feed 2026

B.D.E.S. Benicia Holy Ghost (The Portuguese Hall 5:30 pm Tickets: $80

February 14

St. Dominic School Crab Feed

St. Dominic's Parish Hall 475 East I St. 6:15 - 10 pm

Enjoy an all-you-can-eat dinner featuring crab, tri-tip, pasta, bread, salad, and one drink ticket, plus auctions and raffles. TICKETS: $110

Thank you for supporting St. Dominic School.

Downtown Benicia

SAVE THE DATE! We invite you to indulge in an afternoon of savoring sips & sweets during our Wine & Chocolate Walk. Stroll First Street enjoying an array of fine wine samplings paired with delicious chocolate tastings from downtown shops & galleries. More info and tickets at https://www. beniciamainstreet.org/event-details/ wine-chocolate-walk-save-the-date

February 8

Ekphrastic Poetry Event

Museum of History Benicia at the Camel Barn

12 - 3 pm

Poets were invited to wander the exhibits, find a subject that speaks to them, transform it into a poem. Experience the result at the Ekphrastic Poetry event on February 8 at the MoHB Camel Barn location. More info at www.mohbenicia.org

February 10

2026 State of the City Benicia Community Center

6 - 8 pm

The City of Benicia will host the State of the City at the Benicia Community Center. The presentation will focus on priorities for 2026, followed by opportunities to engage with City staff and City Council. More info at https://engagebenicia.com/en/ events/1229c884-df07-4b9d-84ebabbcc8428c85

February 13

Paint and Sip Museum of History Benicia at the Camel Barn

7 - 9 pm

Join MoHB for a cozy evening in Stone Hall! Enjoy a guided paint session with tasty drinks, sweet and salty treats, and a short spotlight on local art history. Perfect for friends, families, and groups looking for a lowkey night out. Individual tickets: $20; 4-person bundle: $65. Get your tickets now at www.mohbenicia.org

February

Valentines Dinner & Mug Making Provisions and Vallejo Clay

Mug Making at 4:30 pm Dinner at 6 pm

Enjoy a four-course dinner with an optional wine pairing at Provisions, with the option to add a mug-making class at Vallejo Clay beforehand. Learn to make a mug from pre-rolled slabs of clay, add texture, and attach a handle—then head to dinner with your handmade piece in mind.

Tickets required: https://www. vtownprovisions.com/valentines-dinner

February 17

Future of Benicia

Benicia Clock Tower 1189 Washington St. 11:30 am - 1 pm

On February 17th 11:30am -1pm The Benicia Chamber of Commerce will host The Future of Benicia. Join us as we hear from Mayor Steve Young, City Manager Mario Giuliani and special presenter Lance Hastings. Lance Hastings is the President and CEO of the California Manufacturers & Technology Association. Tickets are $55 and include lunch. More info at https://beniciachamberofcommerce. growthzoneapp.com/ap/Events/ Register/9eFKoj3TWC9Cx