The Vallejo Weekly | Vol 13 | Issue 7 by cityofvallejo

ANDREW'S ANNOUNCEMENTS

A MESSAGE FROM THE CITY MANAGER

Hello Vallejo,

I hope that you are gearing up for a nice and relaxing Presidents’ Day weekend.

We have much to celebrate this month, illustrated in the pictures on the cover of this Weekly! At its meeting on Tuesday, the City Council presented a proclamation recognizing Black History Month. Please enjoy the festivities, and check out our Staff Highlight on Derek Crutchfield, Environmental Services Manager/Public Works Department, who has served our great community for 23 years.

Also, the City’s future looks bright with our new Youth Delegation, which is a group of high school students selected each year to attend the National League of Cities conference to learn and share about civic issues.

We are beginning the process of developing the budget for the upcoming fiscal year (FY), 20252026, which will run from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. There will be more opportunities this year for community members to provide input on the budget. Be on the lookout for a survey to gather ideas on budget priorities.

Please stay engaged. We appreciate your comments and feedback on City services and how to make them community and customer centered.

With appreciation,

Andrew Murray Vallejo City Manager

city of vallejo holiday closure

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2025

City offices will be closed in observance of Presidents’ Day City Hall will reopen on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 9:00 AM

Derek crutchfield staff Highlights

How many years have you worked at Vallejo?

I have been employed with the City of Vallejo for 23 years (October 1, 2001).

Why is Black History Month important to you?

I think it is important to celebrate and focus on the contributions and achievements of various African Americans to the United States.

What is your ethnic background? How has being African-American shaped your life?

I am African American and I was raised in the suburbs of Vacaville in a predominantly Caucasian neighborhoods. I was often the only African American student in all my classes from elementary through high school. I felt that I was constantly having to educate my friends on African American culture, foods and traditions. Although it was awkward at times, I learn to take great pride in my culture and the contributions of other African Americans made to the United

States. I learned that many of my friends unknowingly had many misconceptions and about African Americans; therefore, I worked really hard at not being a stereotypical African American. I have experienced overt and covert racism at times, which was difficult for me to understand and process as a young person. However, the older I got, I realized that people’s  racism had nothing to do with me personally but I was merely being judged on the color of my skin and not the content of my character. I learned to surround myself with loving and caring people that accepted me for the person that I was, which allowed me to love myself and be proud of my African American culture and heritage.

What do you love most about your work at Vallejo?

Vallejo is one of the most diverse cities in the United States and I am grateful for any opportunity to work for the City of Vallejo. My work with Environmental Services, allows me to work on issues that really impact our environment. Over the years I have had an opportunity to implement recycling and waste reduction programs for the resident and businesses in Vallejo that are aimed at conserving natural resources and minimize the amount of materials that landfilled and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  In addition, I am very grateful for all my great

co-workers who have become my work family. Also, I head up the City of Vallejo Social , which is a volunteer employee committee that puts on events to boosting employee morale and to merely have fun.

What are your favorite sports and activities?

I really love watching Football and Basketball. I am a Raider and Warrior fan at heart but will root for any all-Bay Area sport teams. I really enjoy going to live games, because of the camaraderie and energy.  The only thing other than sports that I like, is rolling in the fast lane with my brothers and sisters in the Family & Friends Corvette Club  (https:// familyandfriendscorvettes.com) that I belong to.  I am a serious Corvette enthusiast! My Corvette is “Yellow Fire”  a Yellow C6 convertible. I joined the Family & Friends Corvette Club in 2014, and we have a lot of fun.  We are a nonprofit organization that believes in giving back to the Community; therefore, we are always looking for opportunities to help those that are less fortunate than us. We participated in the Vallejo 4th of July parade and Juneteenth parade and have had car shows in Vallejo that have had other Corvette clubs from all over California. Finally, I love travel and experience different cultures and foods. Anyone who knows me, knows that I am a foodie and I will plan a whole vacation around foods that I want to try. I recently went to Thailand and it was an awesome vacation with some great food.

What do you love most about your culture?

Family!!! Both of my parents had five or more siblings; therefore, I had a lot of uncles, aunts and cousins. The holidays were an exceptionally special time of year because we would all come together at my grandparent’s homes. It was a time to see family and friends that were like family.  Now that patriarch and matriarchs of my family has passed on, we work very hard at carrying on the traditions that had been instilled in us. We realize that family is important and when we get together, we all sit around and share those fond memories from the past. I am also working hard to create those memories for my grandchildren. I ensure that they accompany me to family events so that they can know their cousins and build their own fond memories.  I would like to add that family is not just our family but friends that have become like family. These are friends that have embraced us and shared their lives with us.

What is your favorite food? Where is your favorite restaurant in Vallejo?

I think my all time favorite food is Seafood Gumbo! Both sets of my grandparents were from Louisiana and they made great Gumbo. Eating Gumbo is very nostalgic for me because it reminds me of Grandparents. We typically make Gumbo for Christmas or New Years. I also have a real sweet tooth so my favorite desserts are Sweet Potato Pie, Banna Pudding made from scratch, Pound Cake and Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. If these desserts are on the menu, I am going to save room for dessert for sure. Vallejo has so many good restaurants so it would be difficult to pick one particular restaurant as a favorite..I love Soultrans Seafood, Bambinos, and House of Soul and Q Halal are by far some of my favorites in Vallejo.

What is your favorite music?

Growing up music was always being played and my parents had a serious album collection. I still love listening to good R&B music because it transports me back to my childhood. However, today I can say that Gospel music is by far my favorite music because it is very inspirational and encouraging. I can draw from the words in Gospel music to help me get through difficult times.  Also, it makes me extremely grateful and reminds me of the love of my higher power, JESUS Christ.

Who is your role model?

Over the years, I have had several role models that have poured into me and helped me at various times throughout my life to become the man that I am today. If I had to choose one role model, it would have to be JESUS. Putting religion aside, when I study his life and  his message of love and forgiveness, I can’t think of anyone that I would like to be more like. All the role models that I have had the privilege of learning from have embodied some of his qualities…loving, caring , kind, compassionate, forgiving, and inclusiveness, honesty, and open-mindedness. Finally, the mentors that I have had in my life gave freely of themselves and wanted to me to be the best version of myself so that I could have a good life and be a good human being.

If you could change the world, what would you do?

I would focus environmental sustainability, social equity, and education reform. By addressing these interconnected issues, I believe we can foster a more harmonious and prosperous society.

Are you fluent in any other languages? If so, please share with us something in that language and share what it means.

No, just English and although I am not fluent in any other languages, my Spanish is not that bad. I took several years of Spanish in school and  I worked in the hospitality industry for several years.  Therefore, if I was in Mexico, I would not have any problem ordering food or finding a bathroom.

What message would you like to share about Black History Month in Vallejo?

If we don’t learn from our history then we are doomed to repeat it. America is a great melting pot and I think that it is totally acceptable and appropriate to take time out to remember and acknowledge the contributions that African Americans made to the United States. The contributions were not just for African Americans they have enhance the lives of all Americans. Martin Luther’s King message of non-violence still works today. Martin Luther King Jr. taught us that perseverance is a vital component to achieving our hopes, dreams and aspirations. Since Vallejo is one of the most diverse cities in the United States, it is important for Vallejo to celebrate all nationalities and cultures because if we can learn from each other and not let racism or other negative destructive means of hate destroy us we can embrace our differences and enjoy each other’s cultures.

Time: 6PM Presents No-Cost Public Event

Location: MIT Academy High School Multi-Purpose Room 2 Positive Place Vallejo, CA 94589

Date: Wednesday, February 27, 2025

Refreshments - Raffles - Entertainment

~You are cordially invited to a special presentation:

Literacy, Consciousness & Digital Book Design

Sunday February 23, 2-4pm g

University of San Francisco professor and award-winning graphic artist with a specialty in book design, Diane Hume has been an environmental activist for over thirty years. Diane received two Congressional Commendations while acting as president and board member of BayAreaFriendsofTibet in addition to being a winner of the Gourmand 2005 award for ‘Best Wine Photography/Illustration’ for her book design of Imagery:ArtforWine .

~The McCune Collection~ Lower-level of JFK Library Bldg 505 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo CA

~ light refreshments will be served~

Enter through the sliding doors from the parking lot behind City Hall Details & map: www.mccunecollection.org/about

TACOS & TAXES

Co-hosted with Golden State Opportunity, Travis Credit Union Foundation and United Way Bay Area

March 8, 2025 |10 AM to 4 PM

John F. Kennedy Library (Joseph Room) 505 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo, CA 94590

It’s tax time! File your taxes with IRS-certified tax preparers and enjoy delicious tacos – all for free!

Eligibility Requirements:

Individuals with income under $67,000

Basic returns only (California + Federal* Appointments required (No walk-ins)

*California: Form 540, 540 2EZ, Schedule CA (540), 3514, 592-B Federal: Form 1040, 1099 (1099INT, 1099-DIV, etc)

WELCOME

to the CITY OF VALLEJO CITIZENS ACADEMY

The Vallejo Citizens Academy aims to empower Vallejo residents by offering insights into City government and its operations. You'll be able to explore City Departments and make a meaningful difference in our community.

WHAT IS CITIZENS ACADEMY?

The Vallejo Citizens Academy is an 11-week interactive educational course aimed at helping Vallejo residents understand more about City government and, specifically, how the City of Vallejo operates. We hope that with this information, individuals feel more empowered to participate in Vallejo through their day-to-day work, in the political landscape, or by spreading information to their neighbors. The Citizens Academy will give residents a deeper dive into all City Departments and provide information that residents may not have realized is part of City’s operations.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

CITY DEPARTMENTS THAT WILL BE INCLUDED ARE:

City Manager’s Office and City Clerk’s Office

City Attorney’s Office

Vallejo Fire Department

Vallejo Police Department

Public Works Department

Water Department

Planning and Development Services & Economic

Development Department

Housing and Community Development Department

Human Resources Department, Risk Management and Information Technology Department

Finance Department

The Vallejo Citizens Academy is an 11-week interactive educational course beginning on March 5, 2025. Classes will be held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm in the Vallejo Room, located below the JFK Library. Class size will be limited to 25 participants, and a small fee of $25 will cover the cost of materials and light snacks that will be provided over the 11 weeks. For more information and to submit your application, MyVallejo.com/CitizensAcademy

UPCOMING GVRD COMMUNITY EVENTS

Join the fun with youth and family events by the Greater Vallejo Recreation District (GVRD). The GVRD Main Office at 395 Amador St is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m for registrations and reservations. GVRD Board and Committee Meetings are held at 401 Amador St. To pre-register or find more information, visit www.gvrd.org, call (707) 6484600, or email recreation@gvrd.org. Click here to check our latest job openings.

View the Spring 2025 Activity Guide for more programs, events, classes and activities!

SENIOR SOCIAL: COFFEE, PASTRIES, GAMES & CHATS

Every 2nd Wednesday of the Month, Wed, 8:30-10:30 AM

This is a FREE community event!

Vallejo Community Center, 225 Amador St.

Ages 55+

Join us for a fun and relaxed morning of socializing, coffee, and light activities! Our Senior Social takes place once a month on the second Wednesday, from 8:30 to 10:30 AM. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee, delicious pastries, and a variety of puzzles and games while meeting new friends. It's a wonderful way to start your day and make new connections in a welcoming environment. Best of all, it’s completely free! We hope to see you there! Coffee is sponsored by a local Starbucks, pastries from local businesses, and games and puzzles are provided by GVRD.

Registration Optional!

HAPPY PRESIDENTS' DAY!

February 17, 2025

GVRD offices will be closed 2/17 in observance of the holiday.

UPCOMING GVRD COMMUNITY EVENTS

ROC THE MIC TEEN SUMMIT

Friday, March 7, 2025, 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

This is a FREE Community event!

Foley Cultural Center

Free Event for Vallejo High School Students, student workshops, DJ, Food Trucks, Student Resources, Obstacle Course, Rock Wall, Open Mic, raffle and more!!!

Enter in a raffle for a chance to win an iPad Mini!

For more infomation please contact: (707) 648-4600 or recreation@gvrd.org.

Registration is required!

**This is a private event in partnership with the Vallejo City Unified School District. More information to follow. For questions, (707) 648-4611 or recreation@gvrd.org**

JFK Library Upcoming Events

LIBRARY HOURS

MONDAY - THURSDAY 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

FRIDAY - SATURDAY 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

SUNDAY 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM

THURSDAY, FEB 13