Benicia Voice

In this wrap-up of 2024, Benicia Voice host Ruben Brunt looks back at many of the interesting and entertaining podcasts during the past 12 months.

Ruben's guests this year included Mayor Steve Young who was reelected in 2024, Lionel Largaespada, Christin Gilpin-Hayes, Trevor Macenski, Benicia City Manager, Mario Giuliani, Peppino D'Agostino, Nicholas Jackson, Dalia Viador, Bob Berman, Bob Joslin.

In this episode of The Benicia Voice we meet Benicia resident Pat Toth-Smith, and we talk about her book 'Wild Among Us - True adventures of a female wildlife photographer'.

It is a fascinating podcast, and we talk with Pat about her passion for photographing Bears, Mountain Lions, Buffalo, Wolves, Moose, Wild Horses and Bald Eagles throughout her travels on the highways and wilderness areas of North America.

https://tothsmithphotography.com/

In this episode of the Benicia Voice, host Ruben Brunt talks to his guests from The Fiestas Primavera Crew, Sheri, Roz, and Mario, about the upcoming fundraiser at Ethnic Notions Fine Art Gallery & Multicultural Bookstore taking place on Saturday December 14th, 4-7 pm.

Tickets are available to buy in advance from Ethnic Notions Gallery:

https://www.facebook.com/ethnicnotionsartgallery/

Or you can come along on the day.

The Fiestas Primavera festival has combined with The Benicia Diversity Festival and represents an opportunity for all communities to unite in an energetic celebration of change and renewal, to learn about our history and the history of human migration, and to honor a culture which has contributed significantly to making Benicia what it is today.

Taking place on April 5th 2025 in Benicia, we will feature a diversity of music, dance performances, art, cuisine and other cultural presentations that explore Mexico and Latin America’s rich cultural heritage and history and the ancestral roots of California.

In this episode of The Benicia Voice, host Ruben Brunt sits down with wellness coach and lifelong Benicia resident Laurie Wachob.

Building on the success of her recent workshop, Slaying the Holidays, held at The Escape Pilates & Yoga studio in Benicia, Laurie shares practical tips and strategies for creating a calmer, less stressful holiday season.

Benicia Herald columnist Stephen Golub joins host, Ruben, executive producers, Bart and Andy, along with cohost Rick to discuss the upcoming presidential election.

Stephen discusses his canvassing trip to the state of Pennsylvania and explains his observations.

Thanks to our cohost, The Escape, Yoga and Pilates studio, Got Watts energy, CHK Electronics, and of course, the Benicia performing arts foundation.

Today, host, Ruben , and cohost Aaron along with executive producers, Bart, and Andy, discuss with hopeful city council member Lionel, the various propositions on the city ballot in this upcoming election. Lionel discusses his opinions and stances on the possible tax increases, put forth to the Benicia residence.

Thanks to our sponsors CHK Electronics, the escape, yoga, and Pilates studio, got Watts power, and the Benicia performing arts foundation.

Today post Ruben, and executive producers, Bart, and Andy discuss council member Trevor‘s ideas for stabilizing Benicia‘s financial situation, the ongoing housing crisis, and providing consistent safety, security, and great schools.

Thanks to our sponsors CHK Electronics, the escape Pilates and yoga studio, got Watts energy, and the Benicia performing arts foundation.

In this episode of The Benicia Voice, host Ruben sits down with Benicia City Councilmember Trevor Macenski, who is seeking re-election.

Trevor, a long-time resident and dedicated public servant, brings a wealth of experience in environmental policy and urban planning. During the conversation, he reflects on his time in office, highlighting key accomplishments and challenges.

He also outlines his vision for Benicia’s future, focusing on sustainability, community engagement, economic growth, and maintaining the city’s small-town charm while addressing the needs of a growing population.

Welcome to *Benicia Voice*, the podcast that keeps Benicia residents informed about local events and key issues.

In today's episode, host Ruben, along with producers Andy and Bart, are joined by guest Arron for an important interview with our special guest Lionel Largaespada, a candidate for the Benicia City Council.

They’ll explore Lionel’s vision for the city, his platform, and his goals for the future as he campaigns for a seat on the council.

This conversation promises to offer valuable insights into the upcoming election and what it could mean for Benicia's future. Stay tuned!

Welcome to another episode of Benicia Voice, where local issues meet community dialogue. In today's episode, producer Andy steps in for host Ruben to bring you an insightful discussion on the upcoming measures F, G, and H, which have been at the center of citywide debate. Andy is joined by local residents Mark McDonald and Aaron Hartman, who offer their perspectives on these critical measures and what they mean for Benicia's future.

As the city faces mounting concerns over its finances, the need for greater transparency and accountability has never been more pressing. With budgets tightening and citizens demanding clearer insights into how their tax dollars are being spent, Mark and Aaron explore whether the proposed measures truly address these issues or if more needs to be done to ensure financial openness in Benicia's government.

Tune in for a candid conversation that digs deep into these local challenges and their potential impact on the entire community.

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