2 minute read
Editor's Letter
FROM THE EDITOR
Growing up in Benicia, I always thought our Independence Day celebrations were the best. From a young age, I remember dancing in the parade every year on the 3rd and in front of the gazebo at Picnic in the Park on the 4th – after which I would get my face painted by one of the artists there. The mood was festive, and it seemed not even a sunburn could ruin the fun.
Advertisement
My family would also always host a big 4th of July BBQ party for our family, friends, and neighbors. Shish kebab, burgers, hotdogs, BBQ veggies, fruit salad, corn on the cob and potato salad were almost always on the menu. All followed by pie or ice cream sandwiches. We never went down to the waterfront to watch the fireworks at dusk because we thought our house had the best view. From my parents’ backyard you could see, not only Benicia’s patriotic display, but Martinez’s, Concord’s, Pleasant Hill’s, Crockett’s, Six Flags’, and occasionally, over the hills you could see the faint glow of fireworks from more westward cities. All us kids would spread a big blanket out on the lawn and wait for the show to start. They would go off in a canon – first Pleasant Hill’s would begin, then Crockett would join in, followed by Benicia, Concord… you get the idea. It made for an extra-long firework show that felt like it was just for us. In appreciation, we would utter the customary “ooh… ahhh…” with each shimmering explosion.
Benicia’s Independence Day festivities are back in full swing after a pandemic hiatus. I know we’re all looking forward to getting back to celebrating, especially since this year there is even more to celebrate. For the past few months Benicia Magazine has been working with Gene Pedrotti to get the word out about Pedrotti Ace’s Centennial celebration, happening July 3rd after the Torchlight Parade. We can’t wait to see this event, including live music and a stellar drone show, come to fruition. Looking forward to seeing you out there!
—Genevieve
