David Perry / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com
WHAT: The Rainbow Honor Walk will host a special benefit to honor Roger Casement with a bronze plaque to be installed in San Francisco’s Castro District. Casement, the Irish patriot, diplomat, and human rights advocate, is recognized worldwide for his role in exposing human rights abuses and for his leadership in Ireland’s 1916 Easter Rising.
WHEN: Thursday, September 4, 2025 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
WHERE: Casements Bar 2351 Mission Street San Francisco, CA
DETAILS: The evening will include remarks from:
Donna Sachet, Emcee
Micháel Smith, Consul General of Ireland
Matthew Rothschild
Hilda Kissane, President, United Irish Societies
Sponsored by San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Rafael Mandelman and Supervisor Matt Dorsey.
Guests will enjoy:
No-host bar
Appetizers
Live Irish music
Gift magnets and stickers for the first 100 attendees
Suggested donation at the door: $20
WHY:
This event celebrates the legacy of Roger Casement (1864–1916), a pioneering advocate for human rights, and supports the Rainbow Honor Walk in honoring LGBTQ+ heroes with permanent bronze plaques in San Francisco’s Castro District.
New Options for Presidio Family Fun, including picnic space at the Outpost Meadow, “World Arts West” and Korean Festival in September
As the fog lifts and San Francisco’s true summer arrives in September and October, the Presidio becomes the city’s ultimate staycation escape. Think cocktails at the Glass Pavilion or Dalida, golden-hour strolls with your dog at Crissy Field, or one last weekend of camping under the stars at Rob Hill before the season closes.
For those looking to linger longer, the award-winning Lodge and Inn at the Presidio offer the perfect Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples Day 3-Day Weekend (or anytime) retreat—steps from trails, history, and some of the best views in the Bay Area.
And of course, with the recent opening of Outpost Meadow, a 1.5-acre expansion of the beloved Presidio Tunnel Tops, there’s now even more space for kids to run, climb, explore—and for parents to relax and picnic with Golden Gate Bridge views. Below: links to the full schedule of events at the Presidio – including two especial highlights: the return of World Arts West on September 7 and the Chuseok Festival of Korean Culture on September 27.
Below: links to learn more about Presidio Lodging and all the upcoming events at the Presidio:
Sunday, September 7 – World Arts West Dance Festival: A global tour of dance in one afternoon at Tunnel Tops. The 2025 World Arts West Dance Festival wraps up its third and final weekend at Presidio Tunnel Tops! This year’s festival features dance workshops, artist dialogues, communal activities and more in venues across the city emphasizing the theme of “Dance as Health and Healing.”
Saturday, September 20: Access to Adventure Day: A family fun day of inclusive programs for families of children with disabilities. This great video tells it all: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6opwSEDSTdg
Friday, September 26 (10am – 12pm) Monthly coyote table talks with Presidio wildlife ecologists. Stop by to meet Presidio wildlife ecologists to learn how to coexist with coyotes.
Saturday, September 27: Chuseok Festival 2025, the Presidio’s 7th annual celebration of Korean culture, a vibrant mix of traditional music, dance, and community spirit right in the heart of the Presidio. Check it out via the event calendar below.
Daily: Park Overview Talks offered four times daily at the Presidio Visitor Center
Daily: Park Ranger Campfire Talks at the Presidio Tunnel Tops Campfire Circle
Every Saturday & Sunday: Military Intelligence Service Historic Learning Center
Every Friday through Sunday: Free history exhibitions at the Presidio Officers’ Club
Every Friday through Sunday: Fort Point History Talk & Exhibition – Black Gold: Stories Untold
New Space to Picnic & Play: Outpost Meadow Directly next to the Outpost nature play space and Field Station, this new open lawn area is designed with families in mind: bring a blanket, celebrate a birthday, or enjoy a post-hike snack. Think of it as your new go-to outdoor living room—no reservation required.
Hands-On Discovery at the Field Station Located just steps away, the Field Station is the place where curiosity turns into adventure. Kids can borrow Explorer Backpacks, complete the Adventure Passport, and take part in rotating crafts and nature activities with friendly park staff and volunteers. StoryWalks—picture books placed page-by-page along short trails—add a dose of literacy to the outdoor fun. Link here to all Self-Guided Adventures: https://presidio.gov/explore/self-guided-adventures
Presidio Pop Up: Family-Friendly Food Trucks Whether you’re craving tacos, wood-fired pizza, or a sweet treat, Presidio Pop Up food trucks are a delicious way to fuel up during your park day. Trucks are located steps from Outpost Meadow and also up at the historic Main Post, with shaded seating and open space to sprawl.
This is the perfect moment to cover the Presidio as a must-visit destination. We’d love to connect you with images, spokespeople, or a guided visit so please reach out.
This Sunday, September 7 World Arts West at Presidio Tunnel Tops
Join us on Sunday, September 7, 1 to 4 p.m., for the 2025 World Arts West Dance Festival at Presidio Tunnel Tops! This year’s line-up features Lakbai Diwa, a powerful Filipino Diasporic Spirit Cultural Ceremony, a live performance from Oakland’s iconic Dimensions Dance Theater, and a Haitian Dance Workshop with Laurie Fleurentin. The theme is “Dance as Health and Healing.” Bring your own picnic or walk over to Presidio Pop Up to purchase delicious food celebrating the Bay Area’s diverse cuisines.
The Final Weekend Lineup Includes:
Lakbai Diwa – A powerful Filipino Diasporic Spirit Cultural Ceremony
Dimensions Dance Theater – A live presentation from one of Oakland’s most iconic Black dance companies
Haitian Dance Workshop with Laurie Fleurentin – A community-centered, high-energy movement session honoring Haitian tradition.
Plus, bring your own picnic, or walk over to Presidio Pop Up’s to purchase delicious food celebrating the Bay Area’s diverse cuisines.
In addition to the presentations at the Presidio, the 3-weekend festival includes community activations rooted in this year’s theme, such as Hawaiian lei making, Kalimba music workshops, Afro-Cuban healing rituals, Indigenous flower bundling and meditative movement, grief songwriting workshop, Persian Mystical dance and Sufi whirling and more.
“Dance as Health and Healing,” explores how dance is essential to a healthy community. It aims to showcase dance and art forms rooted in cultural traditions, including sacred, social, and contemporary. See all the World Arts West Dance Festival activations this year.
media contact: David Perry & Associates, Inc / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com
“Stand! In the end you’ll still be you…” – Sly & the Family Stone
Porchfest Benicia announces historic collaboration: Lady Bianca & Freddie Stone Bring Sly & the Family Stone Legacy to the Benicia Waterfront Saturday, September 13, 2025
More than 10,000 Attendees Expected This Month
2 September 2025 – Benicia, CA: Porchfest Benicia (www.porchfest-benicia.com) is all about family fun and music — this year specifically Sly and the Family Stone. On Saturday, September 13, Lady Bianca—who toured with Sly Stone and many other legends—will headline a special tribute set to that legendary band. Even more historic: Freddie Stone, co-founder and original guitarist/vocalist of the iconic band, is expected to join as a very special guest during the festival’s VIP pre-show at Lucca Beer Garden.
“To have Lady Bianca, a true Bay Area treasure who toured with Sly himself, on our Porchfest stage is thrilling,” said Mary Hand, Publisher of Benicia Magazine and creative force behind the free musical festival. “But to welcome Freddie Stone—the very architect of that sound—is beyond our wildest dreams. This is not just a concert. It’s a piece of American music history happening right here in Benicia.”
Porchfest Benicia’s ethos has always been to celebrate community, creativity, and connection. With the addition of a Sly & the Family Stone tribute—performed by artists who lived and shaped that legacy—the festival continues to elevate Benicia as a cultural destination.
“This is extraordinary,” said Benicia Mayor Steve Young. “Sly & the Family Stone defined an era. To have Freddie Stone and Lady Bianca come together here in Benicia is something our community will remember for generations. It affirms Porchfest’s place not only as a local favorite but as a festival of national significance. I expect Porchfest will become an annual Benicia tradition on the level of the Peddlers Fair, Tree Lighting and Torchlight Parade. My thanks to Benicia Magazine and the other sponsors of this great event.”
Lady Bianca will perform her “Ode to Sly & the Family Stone” set from 12 noon – 2:30 PM at Lucca Beer Garden, while Freddie Stone is anticipated to make a guest appearance during the exclusive VIP pre-show. VIP tickets may be purchased at the link below: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/porchfest-benicia-2025-vip-tickets-tickets-1439949861799“Porchfest has always been about music that unites people across generations and backgrounds,” said Hand. “Sly & the Family Stone embodied that vision in their day, and Lady Bianca and Freddie Stone will bring it to life again on September 13. It will be a true celebration of soul, funk, and community spirit.”Porchfest is an annual celebration that began in Ithaca, New York, in 2007, and has since spread across the United States and Canada. It brings together local musicians and community members to showcase talents on front porches, storefronts, and driveways, promoting a sense of community pride and inclusion. Nestled on the Carquinez Strait, Benicia is a city rich in history and culture, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and warm, welcoming community.“Benicia is the perfect setting for this musical homecoming,” Hand sums up. “It’s going to be unforgettable.”
media contact: David Perry & Associates, Inc / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com
“Where words leave off, music begins.” – Heinrich Heine Porchfest Benicia presents its full 2025 lineup — an eclectic celebration of community and sound Saturday, September 13, 2025
Over 10,000 Music Lovers Celebrate Inaugural Event Last Year, Setting Stage for Another Unforgettable Experience
2 September 2025 – Benicia, CA: The good folks at Benicia Magazine know there is no such thing as “too much of a good thing” when it comes to music for this year’s 2nd Annual Porchfest Benicia (www.porchfest-benicia.com). The water ringed Bay city will be vibrating on Saturday, September 13(12pm – 5pm) with a rich, multi-genre talent roster featuring a diverse array of local, regional, and national musicians across downtown venues and historic porches.
“Music, mirth, good food, fine ways and lots of family-friendly fun, what’s not to like,” said Mary Hand, publisher of Benicia Magazine and creative force behind what has in two-short-years a “Bay Area Must-See-Hear-and-Attend event on the cultural calendar. “Last year, more than 10,000 people came to discover what we Benicians already know: this town is magical, and full of musical talent.”
Below is the full list of musicians performing at this year’s Porchfest Benicia on Saturday, September. The details of venues and times (subject to change) can be found online at https://www.porchfest-benicia.com/talent
Joe Sumner (Pop/Folk/Rock) — An English-born singer-songwriter of Fiction Plane fame, who has toured with “A Bowie Celebration” and alongside his father, Sting. His solo release Sunshine In The Night has earned global praise.
Don Bassey & Friends Featuring Bonnie Hayes (Blues/Rock/Americana) — Don Bassey brings decades of Bay Area music expertise, having played with BB King, Santana, and The Byrds; Bonnie Hayes is a celebrated songwriter (Bonnie Raitt, Robert Cray), touring alum (Billy Idol), and former head of Berklee’s songwriting department.
Baxter Robertson & The California Psychics featuring Kid Andersen (Blues) — Baxter Robertson is a Bay Area songwriter, keyboardist, and multi-media artist; Kid Andersen joins him—a recognized name in blues circuit. (Porchfest Benicia)
Lilan Kane & Ian McArdle (Soul/Jazz) — Featuring Oakland’s soulful, expressive singer Lilan Kane, with Ian McArdle’s complement on stage. Their music has received media recognition across KCSM, Jazziz, Soultracks, and more.
Lady Bianca (Blues, Funk, Soul, Gospel, R&B) — A powerful electric performer who toured with Sly Stone, Frank Zappa, John Lee Hooker, Van Morrison, Curtis Mayfield, and received multiple Grammy nominations.
Deep Thicket Dwellers (Bluegrass) — A dynamic quartet weaving Bluegrass, Old-time, Gypsy Jazz, and fiddle-driven “Hillbilly Jazz,” delivering energetic foot-stomping performances.
Tender Mercies (Americana/Rock) — Featuring Dan Vickrey & Jim Bogios of Counting Crows, plus Patrick Winningham and Kurt Stevenson; currently recording anew.
Beso Negro (Gypsy Jazz, Latin, Americana, Punk) — Bold, fast, and danceable: Gypsy-influenced Americana with a punk twist for the modern listener.
Justin Howl (Blues/Roots) — Mississippi-born, Chicago-based blues troubadour praised by Blues Blast Magazine and Music Connection for his impactful voice and evocative songwriting. (Porchfest Benicia)
Pardon The Interruption (Ska/New Wave/Progressive Pop) — A playful, genre-blending act reminiscent of Fishbone, Mr. Bungle, Talking Heads, and The Police; guaranteed to spark movement. (Porchfest Benicia)
BeaufunK (Funk) — Fronted by Michael Jeffries (formerly of Tower of Power), with a lineup of funk heavyweights, delivering irresistible rhythm and dance energy. (Porchfest Benicia)
Jewels Hanson & Company (Country) — Country singer-songwriter and Nashville Star Top-10 finalist; her credits include co-writing for Trailer Choir and Cowboy Troy, and anthem performances at major sports stadiums. (Porchfest Benicia)
Shabang! (Calypso) — Led by steel-pan artist Harry Best from St. Lucia, delivering authentic Caribbean steel drum music infused with calypso, reggae, zouk, and soca. (Porchfest Benicia)
Lucas Ohio (Americana) — Martinez-based singer-songwriter blending folk, country, and blues; hailed by Mojo magazine for his impactful songwriting and emotive storytelling. (Porchfest Benicia)
Kabachuti (Indigenous Soul) — Ras K’dee of the Dry Creek Pomo, a powerful lyricist, educator, and Hip-Hop innovator, often likened to Gil-Scott Heron and Marvin Gaye. (Porchfest Benicia)
Carly Thomas (Acoustic/Folk/Indie) — Canadian-born, globally-raised singer-songwriter with a unique multicultural perspective and deeply evocative songs; her album Behind the Ficus delves into personal truths. (Porchfest Benicia)
James Henry Hands on Fire (Latin/World/Flamenco Fusion) — A fiery ensemble led by percussionist James Henry, blending Latin grooves, flamenco guitar, and global rhythms for an electrifying, dance-driven set.
Ticket To The Limit (Classic Rock Tribute) — High-energy tribute band delivering iconic rock anthems with precision and passion, from Eagles harmonies to arena-ready guitar solos.
Sixteen Scandals (’80s/Pop Covers) — A playful party band reviving the neon-lit sounds of the ’80s, complete with big hooks, dance beats, and sing-along nostalgia.
Stan Houston (Singer-Songwriter/Americana) — A seasoned local troubadour with heartfelt lyrics and warm guitar stylings, offering a mix of Americana, folk, and roots originals.
The Bell Brothers (Country/Rock) — Harmonious sibling duo blending California country and rock, known for tight vocal harmonies and infectious stage chemistry.
Greg Rahn Trio (Jazz/Fusion/Latin) — Pianist Greg Rahn leads a versatile trio weaving jazz, Latin, and funk into sophisticated yet accessible grooves.
HMN2HMN (Hip-Hop/Soul) — An innovative Bay Area collective merging conscious hip-hop with soulful beats, highlighting storytelling and community connection.
Full House (Rock/Jam Collective) — Featuring members of Uncommonwealth, Vintage Spirits, and more, this collaboration brings together seasoned musicians for a genre-bending rock/jam performance.
SunHunter (Indie Rock/Psych) — An adventurous band exploring lush indie-rock soundscapes with psychedelic textures and melodic storytelling.
Blue Cinema (Alt/Indie/Pop) — Atmospheric and cinematic, &Blue Cinema crafts dreamy alt-pop songs layered with electronic touches and emotional resonance.
Evolution Eden (Rock/Pop) — A polished, radio-ready rock outfit blending melodic hooks, soaring vocals, and modern production.
Josh Flagg (Rock/Americana) — Dynamic singer-songwriter with driving guitar riffs and heartfelt Americana storytelling, praised for powerful live performances.
Justin Jones (Folk/Rock/Blues) — A soulful artist with a gritty voice and poetic lyrics, channeling folk, rock, and blues traditions into modern storytelling.
Ex-Capitals featuring Paul Caccamo (Indie Rock/Post-Punk) — A sharp, edgy act with roots in indie and post-punk, delivering driving rhythms and smart lyricism, joined by special guest Paul Caccamo.
Stages & Performances: The artists will appear across 18 venues, including charming vintage porches and busy First Street locales:
City Park/Uptown Stage: James Henry Hands on Fire Quartet, Afro Beat, Latin grooves, Soca, Caribbean Flavor World fusion With funky vocals 12pm), BeaufunK (Funk/Soul, 35pm)
One House Bakery: Carly Thomas (Acoustic/Indie/Rock, 1:302pm & 2:303pm) Kevin Frazier Group (Smooth Jazz, 11:30AM -1PM)
Rellik Tavern: Ticket to the Limit (Rock, 13pm), Sixteen Scandals (Rock, 46pm)
Benicia Capitol State Historic Park: Benicia Middle School Drum Line (12:301pm)
Elisa’s Closet: Stan Houston (Acoustic, 13pm)
BootScootin’ Stage (Chamber lot): Jewels Hanson & Company (12:30pm), The Bell Brothers (2:305pm)
Lucca Beer Garden: Lady Bianca (Funk/Blues, 122:30pm); Lilan Kane & Ian McArdle (Soul/Jazz, 35pm)
The Inn at Benicia (Gazebo): Shabang! (Calypso, 13pm), Kabachuti (Indigenous Soul, 3:305pm)
Baxter’s (Blues at Baxters): Justin Howl (Blues, 15pm with breaks)
Estey’s Speakeasy: Greg Rahn Trio (Jazz, 15pm with breaks)
Benicia Green Stage: Joe Sumner (Pop/Rock, 12:30pm), Beso Negro (Gypsy/Americana/Punk, 35pm)
Benicia Yacht Club (Anchors Away): Pardon The Interruption (Ska/New Wave, 14:30pm with breaks)
Sanctuary Stage (L.M.E. church): HMN2HMN (Pop/Rock, 15pm with breaks)
Big Old Victorian House of Blues (245 West K St.): Don Bassey & Friends feat. Bonnie Hayes (Blues/Rock/Americana, 12:30pm), Baxter Robertson & The California Psychics feat. Kid Andersen (Blues, 3:305pm)
Full House (224 West I St.): Full House with members of Uncommonwealth & Vintage Spirits (Rock, 15pm with breaks)
SunHunter (130 West K St.): SunHunter (Acoustic Rock, 23pm)
Midtown Row West (134 West H St.): Evolution Eden (Jazz/Fusion, 15pm with breaks)
Midtown Row East (164 East H St.): Deep Thicket Dwellers (Bluegrass, 15pm with breaks)
Songwriter’s Corner (117 East F St.): Josh Flagg (Acoustic, 11:45pm & 22:45pm)
Mary Farmar School of Rock (150 West G St.): Ex-Copitals with guest Paul Caccamo (Classical, 15pm with breaks) (Porchfest Benicia, Porchfest Benicia)
“This year’s lineup encapsulates everything we envisioned: genre-defying artistry, community storytelling, and a real sense of musical adventure—performed in the heart of Benicia,” said Hand. “What makes Porchfest remarkable is that it transforms our historic streets into stages where music, culture, and connection meet. We can’t wait for audiences to experience every note, nuance, and narrative—porch by porch, artist by artist.”
Porchfest is an annual celebration that began in Ithaca, New York, in 2007, and has since spread across the United States and Canada, uniting musicians and communities on front porches, storefronts, and outdoor stages. Nestled on the Carquinez Strait, Benicia is renowned for its historic architecture, vibrant arts scene, and close-knit spirit—making it the perfect home for this musical tradition.
“We’re honored to present such a deep and diverse lineup,” Hand summed up. “From intimate acoustic ballads to high-voltage funk, Porchfest 2025 promises both soulful reflection and foot-stomping celebration.”
