We are fortunate indeed to have such a talented group of contributing writers, whose compelling stories delight readers each month. Hats off to their professionalism and creativity.
Christina Strawbridge has a lifelong passion for all things fashion, which she shares with readers in Fashionista, her monthly column. Constant global travel provides Christina with unique insight into the history and culture of many nations. Christina, 61, is also a member of the Benicia City Council and owns Christina S women’s clothing & accessories boutique.
Sue Sumner-Moore began conducting and writing interviews for Benicia Magazine in 2006 after working for 27 years as a reporter and editor for newspapers in the Bay Area and the Hudson Valley in New York. A Benicia resident since 1988, Sue, 57, and her husband, Scott, raised their two children here. She is a big fan of the Giants and NPR.
Bob Ecker is a Napa-based freelance writer/photographer producing destination wine content, travel and restaurant/foodie stories. His articles have appeared in magazines such as Decanter, Wine Enthusiast, Modern Luxury Publications, Discover and San Diego, as well as many newspapers including the San Francisco Chronicle, LA Times and the Napa Valley Register. Ecker, 53, enjoys the nexus between travel, wine and dining and has competed as an actual Racing Sausage.
Diane Gardner is a full-time writer and editor. Her work has appeared in the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, in other compilation books and in magazines. She adores mysteries, valiantly attempts oil painting, and can’t keep a single houseplant alive. When not exploring local street fairs, Diane, 41, can be found at home with her husband enjoying their view of the Carquinez Bridge.
With a BA in journalism from CSU Sacramento, Adriene Rockwell wants her writing to make a difference. Previous to her work with Benicia Magazine, she was a feature writer for Sacramento Magazine and the Pacific Sun Weekly. Adriene, 47, has also worked for 20-plus years as a development professional and grant writer for a number of worthy non-profit causes.
Beth Steinmann, an alternative health provider in Santa Rosa, California, grew up in Benicia, writing and drawing on furniture, walls, herself, her shoes, clothing—anywhere a pen could travel—a literary graffiti artist. With a BA in Comparative Literature from UC Berkeley, her illustrations were chosen for a unique art book published by UC. Beth, 29, writes occasional feature stories and wellness columns for Benicia Magazine.
