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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

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Home Care In Benicia, CA

Home Care Benicia, CA

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Benicia Capitol State Historic Park gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Benicia, CA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Benicia, CA

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“I did not know a service like this even existed! Taking care of a parent with dementia is extremely difficult. My father has reached the point that he needs 24 hour care. Thankfully Stephanie stepped in and guided me through it all. I had so many questions, but yet didn’t know what to ask. I was lost. She took me to a few Board and Cares, explained all the differences between all the options out there. Stephanie even stepped in at the hospital, (with my permission ), to be sure my Dad wasn’t released too soon and all appropriate paperwork was completed. Stephanie is worth her wait in gold!!”

Diane O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Stephanie DeMartile has been an absolute pleasure to work with! She's very kind, knowledgeable and patient. Her experience makes for a smooth process. If you're thinking of choosing Always Best Care, let this be your sign to move forward! Highly recommend.”

Antanique H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Our sister was under the care of Stephanie DeMartile and her team and received superb service. We couldn’t have asked for better care during her last days. We would highly recommend ABC to anyone seeking professional and loving care for themselves or their loved ones. We had our sister in several other facilities and she received very poor care until we got her home. The home care was wonderful! When it came time for her to enter the hospice part of the program, we were amazed at how loving and caring Stephanie’s team treated her. She was allowed to die pain free and with dignity. We were sad but grateful she had such great care and support in her end days.”

Susan S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is such an amazing company. Helping meet our seniors needs and guiding families through this exhausting process of needing care, finding care at home and then even helping finding long term solutions once things escalate past home needs! Stephanie DeMartile is very responsive, knowledgeable & helpful. Thank goodness for her experience to guide us through this process. She is a jewel. I can honestly say she is the main reason I keep coming back to Always Best Care!”

T G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services always provides the best services and truly cares for their clients. I can't thank Stephanie enough for the help and guidance she has given!”

Colleen B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“It was Christmas day when my In laws had fallen and both were in the hospital. There was alot on problems with their care and services available but the one thing the hospital did right was by giving us Always Best Care. Stephanie DeMartile let me know what the costs and options were available. She made all the calls to find a care home that was affordable clean and could accommodate a couple. . She took a huge weight off my shoulders. Her service was the best, other services just gave me places to call. Thank you!”

Virginia P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I have someone to walk with since I was in the hospital because I fell when walking. I like the fact that I have someone to walk with me. There are little things that would not happen without the caregiver. In the beginning, several people came out, and then it settled on two providers. I think they needed more consistency at the beginning.”

Adele &.
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TESTIMONIALS

“After my Dad came to live with us rather suddenly it became clear that we would need some help in the home. I was very apprehensive about having "strangers" in my home while my husband and I went to work. Trusting anyone else to care for my Dad was a huge leap for me. Lori came and did the intake evaluation and I immediately felt comfortable with her. She met Dad and was so gracious and personable with him. We needed help right away and Always Best Care did their very best to fill our time slots quickly. This was where there were a few bumps but I would encourage anyone to be patient with the process. We got a great rhythm of care going for Dad and he would daily ask "who's coming today?" Jessica would pop bye and check on him. Always so attentive to REALLY knowing how he was doing. He loved their chats. Tenesha and Carolyn became like family in our home. My fears of in home care, trusting others with my home and Dad quickly faded away with the dedicated and genuine care giving he received. We are forever grateful.”

Deanna D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider She bathed and washed her up. She took care of her hygiene. The home care provider Shelby was proficient and well-trained.”

Gina J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider It helps me because I can't be there for my mom every day, and it helps her with cleaning. I would recommend them because they are very organized and professional. They are flexible and compassionate.”

Juliette N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They work really hard for me because my life is very hectic and crazy. They are very professional, hardworking individuals.”

Rhonda R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The caregiver only comes in once a week, but she provides excellent care. She is like part of the family when she is here. They're dependable, reliable, and have excellent customer service and care. They've been outstanding in every aspect and they've never let me down.”

Sheila F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider They could have put their rates down a little bit. I used them for 2 days, but it was too expensive.”

Anonymous_7650
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They help by readjusting the schedule if needed. I would recommend them because they are helpful, and they know exactly what I need.”

Barbara H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The interaction has been helping her the most. I like that we can make a list of what we need and that is what we are provided.”

Joan L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They help me more than they help my husband, it gives me some relief. I'd recommend them because they always follow up, the follow-up in the office is good.”

Phillip H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They look for things to do when everything else is done. They do a good job of getting the caregivers here, and they are excellent caregivers.”

Gloria C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider The therapist was very positive and encouraging to get me moving. I liked the nurses and physical therapists.”

Anita C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They have made my life a lot easier. I don't have to do everything for myself now. I would like to see them improve at getting a caregiver who will be able to physically take care of me. My caregiver is a little lady, and I am a bigger lady so I think it would be better if they matched me with a bigger caregiver.”

Anna M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The care is helping, and the client is happy. It has let me get the rest I need and peace of mind. The training for the caregiver could be better, she was not as knowledgeable as they said she was.”

Cynthia C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider She works well with my wife. We are satisfied with their help.”

James S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The services have helped me the most with keeping up with my target. I like that they are professional.”

Charlie P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Lori Yeager, Came to my house to sign me up the service, she was incredible, very knowledgeable and thorough in every thing to about the service. I was very pleased and excited to start the service ????”

Richard L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider I am a past client of Always Best Care from Feb 2017. My ABC care coordinator was Sierra Washington in Vacaville. She did an excellent job. She's very experienced and professional. The only problem I had with ABC was the fact that they only had one home care person in my area (Rio Vista), Maria, who did a great job when she was here. Unfortunately, her schedule was very limited. Hopefully, ABC has found additional home care people in the meantime.”

rvsue
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider An excellent company with professional staff. Excellent follow-up too!”

Cabigirl

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Benicia, CA?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Benicia, CA

Types of Elderly Care in Benicia, CA

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Benicia, CA
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Benicia, CA
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Benicia Community Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Benicia, CA
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Bella Siena or visit Commandant’s Home, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Benicia, CA

Benefits of Home Care in Benicia, CA

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Benicia, CA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Benicia, CA

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your CA's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Benicia, CA

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Benicia, CA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Benicia, CA

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Benicia, CA

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Benicia Loving Care Home
  • Benicia Angel's Home
  • Golden Age Care Home
  • Jensteph Home Care
  • The Lodge at Glen Cove
  • Benicia Senior Citizens
Home Care Benicia, CA

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Benicia, CA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Benicia, CA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Benicia, CA

Latest News in Benicia, CA

Benicia High announces new head football coach

For the first time in two decades, Benicia High School has a new head football coach.The school announced on Friday the hiring of Scott Swartz to lead the program, just two weeks after the school said longtime coach and athletic director Craig Holden had “resigned.”Swartz previously coached for the San Francisco 49ers, Oregon State University, San Jose State University, Northern Arizona University, and other high school programs.The school announced the hiring in a Twitter post, adding that “Coach Swart...

For the first time in two decades, Benicia High School has a new head football coach.

The school announced on Friday the hiring of Scott Swartz to lead the program, just two weeks after the school said longtime coach and athletic director Craig Holden had “resigned.”

Swartz previously coached for the San Francisco 49ers, Oregon State University, San Jose State University, Northern Arizona University, and other high school programs.

The school announced the hiring in a Twitter post, adding that “Coach Swartz will offer spring ball for ninth through 11th-grade student-athletes planning to play football during the fall season starting on Monday. Students should meet at 3:45 p.m. at the stadium. Additional info about summer training and start of fall season coming soon.”

Although an April 13 Benicia Herald article states that Holden was fired by the school, Benicia Unified School District Superintendent Damon Wright says that is not the case.

“The Benicia Unified School District did not terminate Mr. Holden,” Wright said in an email to the Vallejo Times-Herald. “Mr. Holden resigned as Athletic Director and Head Football Coach on April 19 and the governing board accepted his resignation on April 20. Both the coaching and Athletic Director positions are stipend, at-will positions. Mr. Holden chose to step down at the end of the 2022-2023 school year. Mr. Holden will continue to serve the BUSD as a Physical Education Teacher.”

When asked if Holden was forced out for disciplinary reasons, Wright could only say that, “Employee resignations are personnel matters and are confidential. Mr. Holden led the BHS football program for 23 years and the athletic department for 18 years. BHS Athletics experienced a tremendous amount of success during his tenure. Our athletic program is highly respected and we will continue cultivating phenomenal student-athletes and preparing them for success beyond high school.”

Holden steps down after being named the Football Honor Coach by the North Coast Section after a 2-8 season in 2022. In 2021, Benicia made the North Coast Section championship game, but lost to Windsor on the road.

Wright said he looked forward to the hiring of Swartz. Ron Wheat has been named the interim Athletic Director for Benicia, a role he held before Holden took over.

“The District remains committed to supporting Coach Swartz through this transition and throughout his tenure,” Wright said. “BUSD is actively recruiting an Athletic Director and hopes to fill the vacancy soon. We thank our student-athletes for their resilience through this transition and will continue supporting their growth.”

Phone calls and texts to Holden, as well as Benicia High Principal Brianna Kleinschmidt, were not met as of press time. Holden’s previous Twitter handle no longer exists.

Benicia varsity football is slated to begin the 2023 season with a Sept. 8 home game against Maria Carrillo, according to maxpreps.com.

'Her Kindness Draws People': Benicia Star Student

Kylie has shown a "willingness to work hard, make a difference, show kindness and be a team player."BENECIA, CA — Star Students are found in classrooms, on concert and theater stages and at debate lecterns, and out in the community doing good things to make life better for all of us.Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize Star Students, and we’re working to tell the stories of these outstanding kids to their neighbors.This submission comes from Glenn Gathright who nominated K...

Kylie has shown a "willingness to work hard, make a difference, show kindness and be a team player."

BENECIA, CA — Star Students are found in classrooms, on concert and theater stages and at debate lecterns, and out in the community doing good things to make life better for all of us.

Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize Star Students, and we’re working to tell the stories of these outstanding kids to their neighbors.

This submission comes from Glenn Gathright who nominated Kylie of Benicia.

Star local student’s name

Kylie

Star local student’s home state

California

How do you know the star local student?

Volunteers for our nonprofit

Why do you believe the star local student should be recognized?

I nominated Kylie not only for volunteering with our nonprofit, Moving Veterans Forward, Inc., but also for her consistent involvement in other activities. A cross section of her participation throughout the years encompasses multiple facets of her life and reflects her willingness to work hard, make a difference, show kindness and be a team player- characteristics I feel make her an ideal candidate for the Patch acknowledgment. A few examples of her achievements and experiences are: 3rd Grade 9 years old: Participated in Oliver Day, to celebrate a fellow student with special needs to create a supportive and inclusive space for all. Volunteered to make and pass out Christmas cards at Windsor Vallejo Nursing & Rehabilitation Center. 4th Grade 10 years old: Volunteered at the Moving Veterans Forward, Inc. (MVF, Inc.) booth at the Travis Air Force Base Air Show. 6th Grade-7th Grade 12 years old: Participated in church functions to learn, grow and socialize among her peers. She attended the youth winter retreat, summer camp, weekly bible studies, and group volunteering throughout the year. 8th Grade 13 years old: During the 8th Grade 2020-2021 school year, despite the uncertainty going on around her from the pandemic, she was able to sustain a 3.86 GPA. 9th Grade 14 years old: After the 2020-2021 shut down, 40% of the soccer regional referees did not return. Even with an already full schedule, Kylie became a certified referee to help fill in when she could. Moving Veterans Forward, Inc. is working to streamline the process for transitioning military veterans to complete civilian certification for aviation maintenance. In the Fall of 2021, Kylie Schultz volunteered to start the data entry tasks. Calvary Baptist Christian Academy signed a Multi- School Agreement allowing Kylie to play for the St. Patrick-St. Vincent High School Varsity Soccer team as a starting player. She made it on the Honorable Mention List for the All-Tri-County Athletic League. For the First Semester, Kylie received a 3.75 GPA and was entered on the Pastor’s “A” Honor Roll List. In the Spring, She competed at the 2022 Golden State Association of Christian Schools (GSACS) Fine Arts Competition along with her classmates, receiving First Place for both Handbell Choir and Senior High Group Acting. 10 Grade 15 years old: In Spring 2022, she created a Coastal Cleanup Team to pickup trash along the beaches in Benicia. In Summer 2022, she competed at the Gothia Cup Tournament in Sweden; the world's largest and most international youth football tournament, where approximately 1700 teams from 80 nations will take part. In Winter 2022, she maintained straight A’s and a 4.0 GPA, all while playing varsity high school soccer at SPSV and flag football for the Coach Sarna Football League. These diverse experiences makes her a well rounded individual.

What's one thing you want everyone to know about the star local student?

Not only is she a well rounded individual, but her kindness draws people to work with her.

Congratulations on your achievements, and all of our best wishes to you in the future, Kylie!

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Benicia (CA) Needs Crisis PR Plan

Benicia, a city of 28K people in the San Francisco Bay Area, is looking for proposals for a crisis PR program.It wants a plan that “defines the responsibilities and procedures for communicating with internal and external stakeholders in the event of a significant, unforeseen disruption or threat to the city.”The selected firm will conduct interviews with city officials to determine the gaps and challenges that Benicia currently faces in crisis communications.It ...

Benicia, a city of 28K people in the San Francisco Bay Area, is looking for proposals for a crisis PR program.

It wants a plan that “defines the responsibilities and procedures for communicating with internal and external stakeholders in the event of a significant, unforeseen disruption or threat to the city.”

The selected firm will conduct interviews with city officials to determine the gaps and challenges that Benicia currently faces in crisis communications.

It will draw up a strategic crisis communications that provides information regarding the levels of incidents, procedures/processes, and what audiences to contact in certain circumstances.

Benicia also wants a strategic emergency information plan that includes messages for social media, press releases and statements; and templates for crisis fact sheet, FAQs, media advisory and press conference checklist.

Proposals are due June 29 at the city’s e-portal.

Read the RFP (PDF).

Qatar's Education Above All Seeks PR

Mon., Jul. 10, 2023

Qatar’s Education Above All Foundation is looking for a firm to support its communications shop with strategic planning, content creation, risk analysis and international media outreach.

Puerto Rico Posts Travel PR RFP

Fri., Jul. 7, 2023

Discover Puerto Rico is looking for a public relations agency that can support all of the destination marketing organization’s PR, talent/influencer and earned media efforts.

The Alabama ABLE Savings Plan

Fri., Jul. 7, 2023

The Yellowhammer State is looking for an agency that can provide creative and media tactics to grow Alabama’s ABLE plan for individuals with disabilities.

Albany, OR Issues Tourism Promotion RFP

Thu., Jul. 6, 2023

Albany, Oregon is looking for an agency that can serve as the city’s destination marketing and management organization

City of Benicia declares local emergency after damage to main water pipeline

BENICIA, Calif. - The city of Benicia on Wednesday declared a local emergency after a water transmission line was damaged during the recent storms.The pipe was damaged when a hillside collapsed on March 29 in Fairfield, the city said. The slope failure occurred just outside the city's limits, near Interstate Highway 680 and Gold Hill Road.The decla...

BENICIA, Calif. - The city of Benicia on Wednesday declared a local emergency after a water transmission line was damaged during the recent storms.

The pipe was damaged when a hillside collapsed on March 29 in Fairfield, the city said. The slope failure occurred just outside the city's limits, near Interstate Highway 680 and Gold Hill Road.

The declaration of an emergency will allow Benicia to access all the resources necessary to repair the pipeline, a spokesperson for the city said.

Interim City Manager Mario Giuliani said the declaration will enable Benicia to access funding through the California Disaster Assistance Act, as well as other state and federal funding.

Currently, the Benicia Department of Public Works is creating a temporary bypass so the city can access its primary water source.

Construction on the bypass began on Tuesday and is expected to continue through Friday. If testing is successful, then water transmission from Cordelia to Benicia will be partially restored. However, the testing could take several days, the city said.

City officials held a press conference last Thursday to address the damaged pipeline and to call for a mandatory 40 percent reduction in water use by residents in what they called a "stage 4 critical water shortage."

SEE ALSO: Benicia under mandatory water conservation orders after hillside collapses on pipeline

Benicia Public Works Director Kyle Ochenduszko said that city water usually comes through the impacted 14-mile pipeline from Lake Berryessa and the Delta, and when they first noticed soil erosion in the area about two weeks ago, they began to monitor the pipe and its pressure.

Crews eventually found a leak in that area that's approximately near Lopes Road. Crews also noticed that erosion had grown significantly since the last rainstorm. At that point, the city turned off the pipeline and switched to an alternate water source, Lake Herman.

The new bypass line will deliver water at a lower capacity and the water will still come from Lake Herman until the line tests are successful, the city said.

A website has been created to provide a one-stop source for information about the pipeline situation, the city said. Residents can find it at www.ci.benicia.ca.us/WaterTransmissionLine.

Soil Testing In Benicia Related To Martinez Refinery Release

Authorities began taking soil samples from over 12 sites, including in Benicia, possibly impacted by the November Martinez refinery release.Patch StaffBENICIA, CA — A toxicologist hired by Contra Costa County began collecting samples Thursday of soil at several locations, including in Benicia, that may have been exposed to metal-laden “spent catalyst” ...

Authorities began taking soil samples from over 12 sites, including in Benicia, possibly impacted by the November Martinez refinery release.

Patch Staff

BENICIA, CA — A toxicologist hired by Contra Costa County began collecting samples Thursday of soil at several locations, including in Benicia, that may have been exposed to metal-laden “spent catalyst” released by the Martinez Refining Company into the surrounding community last Thanksgiving.

Soil samples are being taken from more than a dozen sites exposed to a 20- to 24-ton plume of dust in an area that stretches from the refinery in Martinez into Benicia and parts of Hercules, Alhambra Valley, Franklin Canyon and El Sobrante.

Collected samples will be sent to a lab to analyze for concentrations of metals associated with the catalyst that may pose risks to human health through skin contact, inhalation or from consuming produce grown in the contaminated soil.

“We know the community is eager to find out what’s in the soil in their yards and whether they should be concerned for their health,” said Contra Costa County Supervisor Federal Glover, whose district includes the refinery, which is owned by PBF Energy Inc. “The soil testing will help provide residents with answers to those questions.”

The sampling plan was based in part on a plume model map created by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District that showed where the spent-catalyst dust likely traveled from the refinery on Marina Vista Road. The plan was reviewed and approved April 27 by the MRC Oversight Committee, which includes seven community residents.

Find out what's happening in Beniciawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The soil sampling and risk assessment are being done for the County by TRC, a Concord-based environmental consulting firm. The risk assessment will also compare levels of metals found in the sampled soil against background levels taken from published academic and regulatory sources.

The refinery accidentally released up to 24 tons of metal-laden spent catalyst dust Nov. 24-25 into the surrounding community. Officials said the refinery failed to notify the county about the incident, which is required by local policy. Instead, county officials said they learned about the incident nearly two days later from a social media post.

Initial wipe samples of the spent-catalyst dust taken from surfaces in neighborhoods around the refinery in the days after the accident showed elevated levels of certain metals, such as aluminum, barium, chromium, nickel, vanadium, and zinc.

Visual observations of dust were recorded at schools, the Amtrak station and the health center, among other locations, according to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Dust was mostly observed west of the refinery, and winds were light and toward the west, southwest or northwest. The observed dust was consistent with the site of the release and measured winds, the air district said.

The most acute health risk was at the time of the incident when people could have breathed in the dust and caused respiratory distress, according to county health officials. Questions have persisted about possible long-term health impacts, particularly from food grown in potentially contaminated soil exposed to the spent catalyst.

In March, with spring and gardening season arriving, the County’s health officer issued an advisory cautioning residents not to eat food grown in potentially contaminated soil until environmental testing could be completed.

Lab results of the soil samples taken this week are expected in late May or early June.

With a large amount of rain since the event, the catalyst material has likely moved since the initial fallout, the air district said. The soil sampling aims to determine how much catalyst material is currently in the soil.

"Residents affected by this release deserve to know if there is any health risk," said John Goia, chair of the Board of Supervisors and member of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District Board of Directors. "Contra Costa Health is working as quickly as possible to ensure that accurate information reaches the public about this issue."

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