By Donna Beth Weilenman
Staff Reporter

CHAR’S HOT DOGS, THE POPULAR EATERY that originally opened in the Tannery building, spent a few years in its own storefront, then returned last year to the Tannery, is celebrating 20 years on First Street.

Charlene Herd initially moved into an existing hot dog spot in the Tannery near the foot of First Street in 1993. She named her business Char’s.

When she returned to the building that’s now called Tannery Row, she got her old spot back. And while she’s always specialized in hot dogs, Herd has expanded the menu since the move: She now serves Angus beef hamburgers, French fries and sweet potato fries.

Prompted by her grandson and business partner, Josh Branum, who is a vegetarian, Char’s has added vegetarian dishes (prepared on separate surfaces, just as the potatoes have their own fryer).

“Here’s to 20 more years!” Herd said last week.

Char’s is at Suite A, 131 First St.

Retail profitability workshop Tuesday in Vacaville

Solano Community College Small Business Development Center’s Retail Profitability Tactics workshop starts at 1 p.m. Tuesday in Vacaville Public Library in Town Square, One Town Square Place, in Vacaville.

Bruce D. Sanders, a consumer psychologist and retailing consultant, will introduce techniques for setting everyday prices, launching sales promotions, influencing shoppers’ preferences and ensuring return customers, said Shemila Johnson, SCC outreach and public relations manager.

“Each participant will receive a copy of Dr. Sanders’s book, ‘Retailer’s Edge: Boost Profits using Shopper Psychology,’” she said.
Follow-up one-on-one counseling by the SCC Small Business Development Center business advisers will be made available.

The workshop is underwritten by a community development grant from Wells Fargo Foundation to the business development center.

Admission is free, but those interested will need to call the center at 707-864-3382 or visit its website before attending. Seating is limited to 20.

Benicia Hopper active until Friday

Benicia Hopper, also called the Bar Hopper, will continue offering free transportation through Thursday, and will close services after nearly five years, said owner Toni Schmit, who also owns Amore Limousine Service.

The Hopper, which began operations March 2008, has been offering free rides to patrons of contracting businesses, particularly those that serve alcoholic beverages. Riders have been asked to tip the drivers, who volunteer for the service.

Since its start, the Hopper has run seven days a week, Schmit said.

Those interested may contact her company at 707-864-0111, or visit www.amorelimoservice.com.

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THE BENICIA HERALD’S WEEKLY Benicia Business Beat column is an opportunity for local businesses and companies to tell our readers about such news as moves, grand openings, awards, promotion of employees, staff changes and changes in goods and services.

Deadline is 3 p.m. Friday for news items that will appear in the next Tuesday edition’s Benicia Business Beat. Email news releases and accompanying high-resolution photographs and logos to beniciaherald@gmail.com, and put “Attn. Business Beat” in the subject line, as well as the name of the business.

The Benicia Herald also appreciates area companies’ advertising patronage. For advertising services, call 707-745-0733 or email adsbenicia@yahoo.com.