VALLEJO WEEKLY
GREETINGS FROM GILLIAN
A MESSAGE FROM GILLIAN HAEN, ACTING CITY MANAGER
Hello Vallejo,
I would like to commend Vallejoans, the City Council and Staff for remaining united in our commitment to doing the great work in Vallejo, especially this past week. This has been an emotional time for the entire country after the attempted assassination of a former U.S. President. Violence is never the answer and I hope this traumatic event will help instill a new resolve for peace and calm and respectful dialogue. We can accomplish more together than divided.
When you are traveling around the City, you may see some electric charging vehicle stations popping up in different locations within the next year. Please check out the article in this edition of the Vallejo Weekly to find out where they’re set to be installed. We’d like to keep these stations safe and functioning for the public so if you see any suspicious activity near these installations, please contact the Vallejo Police Department.
Remember to please check out the Community Survey in this Weekly and provide your input on the City’s recruitment of a new Police Chief at the Community Meeting next week, 7/25, 6:30 PM in the Vallejo Room, below JFK Library. This is a key position to continue to move our City forward in a positive way and we want to hear from you all on what you would like to see in the person taking on this important job!
Speaking of the Police Department, they conducted an abandoned vehicle sweep recently and 39 cars were towed and 3 vehicles were tagged to be towed. We will continue to do these sweeps every 4-6 weeks in response to the SeeClickFix.com submissions and our Community’s desire to continue to clean up the streets in Vallejo.
We are making progress in many key areas and we thank the Community for your patience and feedback on these projects that directly affect you. Let’s keep things moving together!
Much respect,
Gillian Haen Acting City Manager
More Electric Vehicle Charging Stations Coming to Vallejo
While driving around Vallejo, you may see new installations popping up of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations.
Mark Helmbrecht, City of Vallejo Transportation Program Superintendent, says the pursuit of public Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure began in 2020 when the Solano Transportation Authority (STA) sought a turnkey solution for EV chargers to support local agencies. EVCS, recognized as a provider by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD), was selected after a thorough evaluation process conducted by STA, which identified EVCS as the most qualified vendor to install and operate these new EV chargers in the city.
The City of Vallejo partnered with EVCS to plan a series of EV charging infrastructure projects in city-owned parking lots, including those in Downtown and Waterfront areas as well as three Community Centers. The installations feature both Level 2 chargers and high-speed Direct Current Fast Chargers, allowing vehicles to charge in
less than an hour. To date, installations have progressed at Lots I, K, J, and F in the Downtown and Waterfront areas, with construction beginning at the South Vallejo Community Center and Lot L in Downtown. Additional chargers will soon be installed at Lot B in the Waterfront and other Community Centers. At many sites, EVCS is awaiting PG&E to supply power to finalize construction and open the chargers to the public. The first location expected to open is Lot J, at the corner of Virginia and Sacramento in Downtown. The project is expected to be completed by mid-2025.
EVCS’s chargers will accept all forms of payment, including credit cards, tap-to-pay, and payment through the EVCS app. EV drivers may pay by the kWh or sign up for an EVCS subscription plan.
We are hoping this will be a successful endeavor for the City. If you see any suspicious activity surrounding the installation projects, please contact the Vallejo Police Department.
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. Please note that the Terrace Park playground is closed for renovations and Lake Dalwigk Park may have intermittent closures due to improvements funded by CalTrans. To pre-register or find more information, visit www.gvrd.org, call (707) 648-4600, or email recreation@gvrd.org. Click here to check our latest job openings.
View the GVRD Summer 2024 Activity Guide for more programs, events, classes and activities!
THE FLAVOR TOWN TUESDAYS
Tuesday, July 9th 4:00-8:00pm
Tuesday, July 23rd 4:00-8:00pm
Tuesday, August 6th 4:00-8:00pm
Children's Wonderland Park
360 Glenn Street
This is a FREE community event!
Flavor town is back for season two! If you missed out last year, come support local owned businesses. We'll feature some of vallejo's most popular and hidden gem eateries. Enjoy food, desserts, cocktails, and more.
BANDS AND BREWS SUMMER
SCHEDULE 2024
Friday, June 28th, 6:00 PM-8:00 PM
Friday, July 12th, 6:00 PM-8:00 PM
Friday, July 26th, 6:00PM-8:00 PM
Saturday, Aug 10th, 6:00PM-8:00PM
Blue Rock Springs Park
This is a FREE community event!
Live Music in the Park with free lawn seating, food, and beverages for sale.
UPCOMING GVRD COMMUNITY EVENTS
MOVIES ON THE DECK: KUNG FU PANDA 4
Saturday, July 27th Doors open at 7 PM. Movie begins at 7:20 PM. Ends at 9:15 PM
Cunningham Aquatic Complex
$10 Resident/$12 Non-Resident
Join us for a magical Community Movie Night at the pool! As dusk settles, our pool deck transforms into an open-air theater perfect for families and friends.
Two pools available: the Olympic size pool and the toddler pool!
No swimming experience needed; Lifeguards will be on deck.photo op.
Register for the event HERE!
BOARD MEETING & BUDGET PUBLIC HEARING
Thursday, July 25th, 6:30 PM
401 Amador Street, Vallejo
This is a FREE community event!
The Board of Directors of the Greater Vallejo Recreation District will meet to hold a public hearing on the 24/25 Preliminary Budget. Any person may attend and be heard regarding any item in the budget or regarding the addition of other items.
For additional information on attending the meeting, call (707) 648-4604.
UPCOMING GVRD COMMUNITY EVENTS
PARKS N' REX DAY!
Saturday, July 27th 12:00-4:00pm
Children's Wonderland Park 360 Glenn Street
$10 Resident/$12 Non-Resident
Celebrate National Parks Day with us at Childrens Wonderland for Parks N Rex Day '24! Bring your clothes for some fun in the sun. Patrons can play with water slides, foam parties, and lawn games while the DJ rocks the party. We will have concessions, vendors, and games available. Each family will have a chance to meet Parker with a photo op.
Register for the event HERE!
ADAPTIVE REC LUAU CELEBREATION
Tuesday, July 30th, 11:00AM-1:00PM
Cunningham Aquatics 801 Heartwood Ave, Vallejo CA, 94590
$10 FEE
Hawaiian inspired music, games, and food. This is an adaptive activity and is designed specifically for individuals with disabilities as well as their friends and family. Participants are encouraged to bring swim wear, extra clothing, a towel, and sunscreen. Event will take place during rec swim.
Register for the event HERE!
Clairdee & Ken French Trio emerge
Clairdee is an internationally touring artist who has collaborated with celebrated jazz masters like Dick Hyman, Bucky Pizzarelli, and Houston Person. Nancy Wilson praised her ability to infuse each song with her unique style while staying true to the original. Clairdee performs in various settings, from symphony orchestras and big bands to small combos and intimate duos, and leads her own world-class band.
RJA Productions is proud to present “EMERGE!” Live Concert, featuring Alisah Bonaobra, The Voice of The Philippines Season 2 First Runner-Up and X Factor UK Finalist. Special guests include Jay R, Divo Bayer, Bryan Termulo, Mark Mabasa, and Armand Mandia. The event will also showcase local talents from the SFO Bay Area: Jazzell Jao Smith, Michael Reyes Lobo, Maggie Alcantara, CJ Moreno, and The Zumbadorees.
july 20, 2024 | 7:00-10:00pm july 24, 2024 | 6:30-8:30pm
tony "macaroni" lufrano
Tony Macaroni grew up in New York in a musical family, with an opera singer mother and a jazz musician father. He learned music informally through recordings and playing in various bands. After touring the country, he became a freelance pianist, recording and performing with artists such as Bonnie Raitt, The Whispers, Boz Scaggs, and Eddie Money. july 19, 2024 | 6:30-10:00pm
sizzle
Step into the cozy Empress Marquee Lounge for an evening of smooth jazz and libations. Sizzle, a dynamic five-piece band, features Earnest Nation (keyboards), Donnie Rogers (bass), Manny Melchor (sax), Bobby Jones (drums), and Steve Jackson (guitar). They deliver a soothing mix of Jazz, R&B, Blues, and Rock, playing tunes from legends like Herbie Hancock and Miles Davis. Enjoy the steamy jazz sounds of Sizzle, mingle, and enjoy a summer series curated by Kim Pruitt and Mark Elliott every Thursday night!
tribute to gladys knight
BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND, Nzuri Soul honors Gladys Knight at the Empress Theatre with an exceptional band. Special guests include JANUARY as DIANNA ROSS, BEBO as ETTA JAMES, PARIS MONEA as MINNIE RIPERTON, and JUST YOLA as ARETHA FRANKLIN. Nzuri Soul, an award-winning R&B singer from Oakland, is known for her powerful vocals and stage presence, with multiple awards including "R&B Band of the Year" and "Best Female Live Performer."
Mari started singing as a toddler, inspired by her family's love of jazz, blues, rock, and R&B. By 18, she was performing in NY clubs. After a car accident, she moved to San Francisco, now living in Northern California. Mari is known for powerful blues and sultry jazz tones. Her latest album, "Can’t Go Back," features the single "Birthday Suit" and includes performances by top Bay Area musicians and the band Sonia Dada. july 25, 2024 | 6:30-8:30pm
july 27, 2024 | 8:00-10:00pm july 31, 2024 | 6:30-8:30pm
mari mack & livin' like kings
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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, JULY 18
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
• 3:00-7:00 PM Makery: Make It Thursday!
• 6:00-7:00 PM Adult Craft Club
FRIDAY, JULY 19
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
• 2:00-4:45 PM Makery: Open Use
MONDAY, JULY 22
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
TUESDAY, JULY 23
• 11:30-12:00 PM Summer Storytime
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
• 2:00-4:00 PM Road to Employement
• 3:00-7:00 PM The Makery: Tinker Tuesday
WEDNESDAY, JULY 24
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
• 1:00-2:00 PM Mad Science Fun Stations
• 4:00-5:00 PM Road to a Dog
THURSDAY, JULY 25
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
• 3:00-7:00 PM The Makert: Make It Thursday!
• 6:00-7:00 PM Adult Craft Club
FRIDAY, JULY 26
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
• 2:00-4:45 PM Makery: Open Use
SATURDAY, JULY 27
• 1:30-3:00 PM Ukelele Play-Along
MONDAY, JULY 29
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
For more information about the JFK Library, Click Here!
Rookie Jane
Pets of the week
ROOKIE
German Shepherd Dog, Male, Young
Rookie is a delightful and handsome 1-year-old white Shepherd. At 63 pounds, he's small for his breed, making him a perfect road trip or adventure companion. He enjoys going for walks and has excellent leash manners! Rookie does well on parallel walks with other dogs at the shelter, and he will soon be tested in the play-yard with other dogs. He's affectionate and gives gentle kisses, and would make a great addition to a fun, loving family. Rookie knows the "sit" command and is a smart boy who should learn more commands easily. If you'd like to meet Rookie, visit our Adoption Page at HSNB.org and fill out a Dog Adoption Interest Application.
JANE
Terrier Mix, Female, Young
Jane is an exuberant 1-year-old Terrier mix with big, floppy ears and an even bigger personality! Jane is extremely agile and athletic and would love a family that will provide her with plenty of exercise and enrichment. She will jump into your arms even when you're standing and loves to cuddle. At just 19 lbs., Jane would be an easy travel companion and excellent hiking buddy. Jane can be a bit shy at first, but underneath that initial hesitation is a heart full of affection. Jane adores humans and would do best as the only dog in the house. She prefers to be the center of your world, soaking up all the attention just for herself! To meet Jane, visit our Adoption Page at HSNB. org and fill out a Dog Adoption Interest Application.
For a list of our available cats and dogs, go to HSNB.org and click the Adoptions tab. We welcome potential adopters to browse available animals on our website and if interested, download an application. Email cat applications to catadoptions@hsnb.org and dog applications to adoptions@hsnb.org. Pets are available at the time of article submission. We cannot guarantee they will be available upon publication. Humane Society of the North Bay is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. We are located at 1121 Sonoma Blvd., Vallejo. We are open daily by appointment, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. We are actively seeking fosters for our pets in need, and we are always seeking donations to help us do the life-saving work we do.
PAYMENT PLANS ARE AVAILABLE!
Do you have unpaid, overdue tolls for Bay Area Express Lanes or bridges? Bay Area FasTrak is making it easier to pay, with payment plans for qualifying, low-income drivers to help you pay off your balance over time. Need help? Just ask.
For more information about the Bay Area Toll Payment Plan and eligibility requirements, visit www.BayAreaTollPaymentPlan.org.
NEWS RELEASE
July 8, 2024
Contact: Mandi Renshaw SolTrans 311 Sacramento St Vallejo, CA 94590 (707) 736-6982
SolTrans Offers Multiple Free Ride Programs to Enhance Community Access
Solano County, CA –– Solano County Transit (SolTrans) provides a range of programs designed to offer free rides on Local Routes and Solano Express Lines, ensuring that various segments of Solano County communities can enjoy accessible and affordable transportation. The free ride programs range from youth to super seniors. See if you are eligible for free fares in the summaries below:
Free Rides for Youth
SolTrans offers youth 18 and under FREE rides on all SolTrans Local Routes and Solano Express Lines. This pilot program, running through June 2025, aims to promote public transit access for a new generation, boost school attendance, and increase ridership.
Solano Community College Students
Solano Community College students can enjoy the same benefit of riding free by presenting a valid student ID on all SolTrans and Fairfield and Suisun Transit ( FAST) Local services, and Solano Express Lines. This ongoing program supports students in their educational pursuits by providing reliable and cost-effective transportation options to the Fairfield and Vallejo campuses.
Free Rides for Seniors 80+
And finally, super seniors aged 80 and above are eligible for free rides on SolTrans local routes, FAST local routes, and Solano Express lines. To qualify, seniors simply need to present a photo ID showing their birth year to confirm they are 80 or older to the operator. This program ensures our senior community members have access to essential transportation services without financial burden.
SolTrans is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all community members by providing accessible, affordable, and sustainable transportation solutions. We look forward to the positive impacts these programs will bring and will continue to assess their effectiveness in meeting community needs.
For more information about these free fare programs, schedules, and other SolTrans services, please visit www.SolTrans.org
Solano County Transit (SolTrans) has been the public transportation provider for south Solano County since July 2011. SolTrans provides local and SolanoExpress fixed routes and complementary paratransit. The agency is a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) governed by a six-member Board of Directors, composed of two representatives from the cities of Benicia and Vallejo, Solano County’s representative on the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), and a representative from the Solano Transportation Authority.
National Night Out is an annual crime prevention event and community-building campaign that is sponsored nationally by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the Vallejo Police Department. Over 38 million people nationwide are expected to participate in National Night Out efforts to strengthen partnerships between neighbors and local law enforcement agencies.
Your neighborhood is invited to participate with many other neighborhoods throughout Vallejo in celebration of National Night Out on Tuesday, August 6, 2024!
National Night Out is designed to:
- Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police/community partnerships
- Heighten crime prevention awareness
- Generate support for and participation in local crime prevention efforts
Neighborhoods will be hosting a variety of events ranging from small potlucks and BBQs to block parties. Some additional event ideas include but are not limited to community giveaways, games, contests, food, and fun.
For further questions about National Night Out, contact the Vallejo Police Department at Monica.Gomez@ cityofvallejo.net or call Monica Gomez at 707-648-4540.
We look forward to meeting you and your neighbors at your National Night Out event this year!
Come see a rare book parlor show!
Sunday July 21, 2-4pm A one-time only performance at ~The McCune Collection~ Lower-level of JFK Library Bldg 505 Santa Clara Street, Vallejo CA ~Finger food & light refreshments will be served~
(Enter through the sliding doors from the parking lot behind City Hall) Details & map: www.mccunecollection.org/about
All About Credit
Join us to learn more about how to navigate credit matters and explore strategies that can help you increase your chances of obtaining housing, employment, and credit access.
Virtual Event Virtual Event Virtual Event
Thursday, July 25th
6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
https://lp.constantcontactpages.co m/ev/reg/7zdkkfv
A Place-2-Live
Provides residential placement services for low to moderate income families and life skills training, helping clients become self-sufficient.
SparkPoint Solano
Provides a full range of financial and employment services to help families achieve long term economic success
Fair Housing Advocates of Northern California
Provides fair housing counseling, investigation and education, foreclosure prevention, and homebuying education.
www.ap2l.org
https://uwba.org/what-we-do/sparkpoint-program www.fairhousingnorcal.org
Call for Contributors: Communal photography project at The Temple Art Lofts Gallery in downtown Vallejo as part of the ninth annual Visions of the Wild festival, September 13-14, 2024.
The theme of this year’s festival is Re•Generation, which celebrates our communal resilience, renewal, and restoration.
As part of the festival, we are planning a community photography project and are seeking Solano County contributors.
Have you seen changes to the natural beauty of Solano County? Has your family lived in Vallejo or other parts of Solano County for generations? We are looking for members of the community to contribute "then and now" photos. These photos should illustrate how an element of nature has changed, for better or worse, over several decades. “Then and now” photos will be displayed in an exhibition as part of the Visions of the Wild festival.
Example 1: Maybe you are living in a house that has been in your family for many years and you have a photo of your grandparents in the backyard with a young tree they planted, and now today that same tree has grown and shades your house. Take a photo of yourself replicating your grandparents' photo, and then share both the old and new photos with us.
Example 2: Maybe you grew up in an area that now looks very different, and you have photographs from when you were young that you can replicate to show how it's changed. A path on your walk to school, a place your family would picnic, or a building that's been replaced by a natural park.
Example 3: Maybe you don't have personal photos from decades past but are interested in the history of Solano County. There are many historical photographs in the Vallejo Naval & Historical Museum, for example. You can replicate a historical photo that depicts how the nature of the area has changed over time.
Please email your photography contributions in a .jpeg format to info@visionsofthewild.org by July 31.
Please include:
• Your name
• The approximate dates of both photos
• The approximate location where the photos were taken.
• Any related story that might add context for both photos.
Please call or text Robin Gross at (707) 853-5655 with any questions, comments, or concerns.
THE CITY OF VALLEJO BROADBAND
SERVICE VALLEJONET IS NOW VIP FIBER
The City of Vallejo is excited to announce that its municipal broadband service, formerly "VallejoNet," has been rebranded as "VIP Fiber."
The City of Vallejo is excited to announce that its municipal broadband service, formerly "VallejoNet," has been rebranded as "VIP Fiber."
Local businesses currently using VIP include Brooks & Co. Real Estate, Kindred Motorworks, Aardvarks Adventureland, Better Chew Kitchen, Suite Treatments Inc., and many more! You, too, can be a part of VIP.
This rebranding initiative is part of the City's ongoing efforts to position Vallejo as a hub for technological innovation and to reflect its commitment to providing high-quality, reliable internet service to its residents and businesses.
This rebranding initiative is part of the City's ongoing efforts to position Vallejo as a hub for technological innovation and to reflect its commitment to providing high-quality, reliable internet service to its residents and businesses.
Community-owned ISPs are driven by the needs and interests of the local residents rather than profit-driven motives. The profits generated stay within the community, promoting local growth, job creation, and economic development. VIP is committed to upholding net neutrality principles, ensuring everyone enjoys a level playing field on the internet.
Community-owned ISPs are driven by the needs and interests of the local residents rather than profit-driven motives. The profits generated stay within the community, promoting local growth, job creation, and economic development. VIP is committed to upholding net neutrality principles, ensuring everyone enjoys a level playing field on the internet.
Local businesses currently using VIP include Brooks & Co. Real Estate, Kindred Motorworks, Aardvarks Adventureland, Better Chew Kitchen, Suite Treatments Inc., and many more! You, too, can be a part of VIP.
Learn more about your local ISP and request a quote today to experience the premium internet service offered by VIP Fiber and join Vallejo in its mission to lead technological advancements in the region while enjoying fast and affordable internet!
Learn more about your local ISP and request a quote today to experience the premium internet service offered by VIP Fiber and join Vallejo in its mission to lead technological advancements in the region while enjoying fast and affordable internet!
Stay updated with the latest news, updates, events, and more on our social media accounts on Instagram and Facebook!
Stay updated with the latest news, updates, events, and more on our social media accounts on Instagram and Facebook!
Check your availability today at www.vipfiber.com
Check your availability today at www.vipfiber.com
