Community Corner
Who's Who in Benicia: Vickie Devlon
A chat with Benicia's favorite walking Christmas tree.
How long have you been in Benicia? Since 1978
Where did you grow up? In Contra Costa County.
How did you end up here? I was living in Martinez with my husband and baby daughter. We took my Saab to the Berkeley dealership for repair. We came back through Benicia and we saw a sign for homes in Benicia. We pulled off the road and looked at them, then bought one.
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Where do you work? In Moraga, I do private banking for Wells Fargo.
How old are you? This year is my big 6-0
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What to you do for fun? Since I've stopped racing sail boats, I was Commodore of the . I'm a devout Rotarian and president of my . I've been doing philanthropic work, writing grants for alternative schools. I've been invited to work in a medical clinic with Batwa Pigmies with Rotary and went to England for 15 days. I'm just enjoying my life. I'm probably more well known as Benicia's Christmas tree for my light-up tree costume.
With so many changes in Benicia over the years, what has stayed the same? Those who have been here a long time, are still in Benicia so your friends are still your friends. All of us in the downtown area are still in the downtown, it's nice to walk down town and shop here. The restaurants and stores have changed, but Benicia has not changed.
What do you miss? Dona Francesca's restaurant. They always had a different menu so it forced you to try new things and challenged your taste buds.
What are you favorite eateries? For pubs, the . Favorite restaurant, have to say is still a nice place to go, they still put a good meal out. For Ice cream, , I grew up on Loard's ice cream.
What are your favorite things to do in Benicia? When the weather is beautiful, I love riding my bike along the waterfront, up hills and out to the state park. My dog Woodie and I have a good time walking at the bottom of West 3rd, the path takes you down to First Street. I like getting up at 5:00 in the morning when its quiet and the water is still on the streets. When the train goes by and you can hear every trestle. Its so soothing.
