As summer winds down, I hope that you will enjoy some upcoming community events, such as National Night Out on August 6th and GVRD’s (Greater Vallejo Recreation District) 80th Anniversary Celebration on August 10th. You can find more information on these events and others in this edition of the Vallejo Weekly.
Later this month, thousands of Vallejo students will return to school. Please be careful, patient, and safe on the roadways to help ensure that these young people get to school safely. Many organizations are providing free back-to-school supplies. Locations you should check out for free supplies (while supplies last) include Children’s Wonderland on Glenn Street this Saturday 8/3, 11:30-4:30 and City Park on 8/10, 11-3 PM.
I had the pleasure of attending the blues and R&B concert at Richardson Park last Saturday. The picture on the front cover of this edition of the Vallejo Weekly is from that event, next to our City table where we provided information about City programs. It was clear that the lively music and vendors were enjoyed by all.
You’ll also find an article in this Vallejo Weekly about the recent military burial that took place in Vallejo for Marcus Engesser who died 82 years ago as a prisoner of war in the Philippines. His remains were finally laid to rest here at home with his family receiving the National Colors from a U.S. Army Honor Guard.
We have wrapped up our final Community Meeting for the recruitment of the permanent Police Chief. You can find the brochure for the Police Chief recruitment and the link to the community survey on our City website homepage at cityofvallejo.net and on our City social media.
The City of Vallejo is creating an updated homelessness strategy that will incorporate the recent US Supreme Court ruling in the Grants Pass case. The City will also be engaging with State agencies to coordinate on their response to the Governor’s recent order regarding clearing encampments on State property. The City of Vallejo is doing its part to provide housing for the currently unhoused. The City is currently constructing two affordable housing facilities, the 47-unit permanent supportive housing Broadway Project and the 125-bed Navigation Center shelter.
With appreciation, Andrew Murray Vallejo City Manager
NEWS RELEASE
July 31, 2024
Contact: Mandi Renshaw SolTrans 311 Sacramento St Vallejo, CA 94590 (707) 736-6982
SolTrans Announces New Schedules for Improved Connectivity and Efficiency
Solano County, CA – Solano County Transit (SolTrans) will make schedule adjustments and minor route changes effective Sunday, August 11, 2024. These changes are part of our ongoing commitment to providing efficient and timely public transportation for the community.
Starting Sunday, August 11, 2024, departure times for all four Express lines will be adjusted to ensure a reliable transfer window between Express buses and the new BART service schedules. This strategic alignment maintains the number of Express trips serving BART, with one exception on the Red Line at the 9 a.m. hour. Two overlapping trips have been consolidated into one, which allows for a highly requested 3:30 p.m. trip on the Red Line from El Cerrito del Norte BART.
Several minor adjustments have also been made to improve overall service efficiency and connectivity:
• Reverse Commute Trips: Travel times for reverse commute trips on the Express lines have been scaled back to better reflect actual travel conditions, reducing the need for buses to hold at timepoints.
• Route 2 Northeast Vallejo Adjustments: The last departure time for Route 2 from the Vallejo Transit Center (VTC) has been adjusted to 4:05 p.m. and 9:05 p.m. These changes ensure better connections from Express lines to the last local service from VTC and improved alignment with other routes.
• New Alignments on Routes 7A Clockwise and 7B Counterclockwise to Gateway Plaza: Routes 7A and 7B have been realigned to include new routing around Redwood and Rotary. Additionally, new stops on Redwood have been added to better serve that neighborhood.
These adjustments are based on feedback from our passengers and aim to provide a more reliable and convenient service. We encourage all passengers to review the updated schedules available on our website, SolTrans.org or at the Vallejo Transit Center Ticket Office
Solano County Transit (SolTrans) has been the public transportation provider for south Solano County since July 2011. SolTrans provides local and Express 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.
Military Burial for Vallejo Soldier Marcus Engesser
On July 20, 82 years after his death as a prisoner of war in the Philippines, the remains of Marcus Engesser were finally laid to rest next to his late mother, Edith Engesser Nunn of Napa, at Sunrise Cemetery in Vallejo.
Elsie Engesser Thompson of Benicia, Marcus’ sister and only surviving family member, received the National Colors from a U.S. Army Honor Guard along with certificates of appreciation from Neil Ferrer - Philippine Consul General of San Francisco, US Representative John Garamendi, CA State Senator Bill Dodd and Assemblymember Lori Wilson, Vallejo Mayor Robert McConnell, and Vallejo Veterans Advocates Nestor Aliga & Delphine Metcalf-Foster.
Marcus and his US Navy brother, Phillip (also buried at Sunrise), are among the 230 Veterans from Vallejo that died during WWII and their names are engraved at the Vallejo War Memorial behind City Hall.
Invites Applications for the Role of
CHIEF OF POLICE
roscoe
Pets of the week
ROSCOE
Rottweiler, Male, Young
Meet Roscoe! This stunning 1-year-old Rottweiler could be a cover model for a high-end pet calendar, but don't let his dapper good looks fool you! According to volunteers, Roscoe is just a big smooshy puppy with zero spatial awareness and a super silly side! If you have a lap, he'll gladly "smoosh" himself into it. He is also very happy to pose for long photo sessions and he loves to give—and get—kisses. Roscoe is a playful boy who can't wait to romp and run with his buddy Romeo in the shelter's play yard and he is a good parallel-walker with our HSNB alumni superstar and resident pup-tester, Ari. If you'd like to meet Roscoe, visit our Adoption Page at HSNB.org and fill out a Dog Adoption Interest Application.
ECHO
Domestic Shorthair, Female, Kitten
Are you ready to add a touch of magic to your life? Look no further than Echo, our enchanting 3-month-old kitten! This charming little lady is a delicate blend of white and gray dilute calico with a unique twist—one sparkling green eye and one mesmerizing blue eye. Echo is not just a pretty face; she's also a curious explorer who enjoys batting at toys and finding cozy spots to nap. She’s ready to find a forever home where she can grow into her full potential as a loving companion. Whether you're looking for a snuggle buddy or a playful partner in crime, Echo is ready to fill your life with love and laughter. To meet Echo, visit our Adoption Page at HSNB.org and fill out a Cat Adoption Interest Application.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.
Vallejo Sister City Association hosts 18th Annual International Dinner and Auction
You are cordially invited!
On Saturday, August 24th , 2024, the Vallejo Sister City Association (VSCA) will be hosting their 18th Annual International Dinner and Auction celebrating their 35th year Sister City anniversary with La Spezia, Italy! The event will feature delicious foods representing each of their seven (7) Sister City regions: Akashi, Japan; Baguio City, Philippines; Bagamoyo, Tanzania; Jincheon, South Korea; La Spezia, Italy; Trondheim, Norway and Ensenada, Mexico. Join VSCA in your best cultural attire to delight your taste buds with cuisines from around the world while enjoying live entertainment, a no-host bar, and a silent auction!
This fundraising event helps VSCA celebrate Vallejo’s beautiful diversity while fulfilling their mission of promoting peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation- one individual, one community at a time. This year, VSCA , in collaboration with the Vallejo Sister City Commission, hosted events such as their annual traditional Japanese Tea Gathering, hosting honored guest from Akashi, Japan as well as young leaders from across South East Asia, concluding their first year of a Sister School Program with Griffin Academy and Baguio City High School, and officially welcoming their newest Sister City: Ensenada, Mexico, with a delegation led by Mayor Robert McConnell. Additionally, VSCA continues to support local community through participation in notable events such as Vallejo Pista Sa Nayon, the Solano County Fair, the 4th of July Parade and more!
For more information about the Vallejo Sister City Association including membership, events, and volunteer opportunities, visit www.vallejosistercity.com. We hope you will join VSCA for a night of great food, entertainment and community!
Ticket information:
$60 (Advanced), $75 (At the Door), $600 (Table of 10)
There are several options to purchase tickets:
1. Purchase a ticket directly from any VSCA board member - Board members will add your name to the registration list and/or provide a ticket to bring to the door
2. Purchase tickets via Venmo using the link or QR code (https://account.venmo.com/u/VallejoSister-CityAssociation) Please include names for tickets in the description. Your name(s) will automatically be added to the registration list upon Venmo purchase.
3. Purchase tickets online by scanning the Eventbrite QR code to the right - Your name will automatically be added to the registration list upon Eventbrite purchase. Online purchase convenience fees may apply.
For more information about the International Dinner and Auction contact: Victoria Grace-Barksdale @ (707)704-8964
NOW Hiring
Economic Development Program Manager
Job Type:
Regular Full-Time
Closing Date:
8/5/24 5:00 PM Pacific
Salary:
$115,357.22 - $140,217.58 Annually
Assistant/Associate Civil Engineer
Job Type:
Regular Full-Time
Closing Date:
8/16/24 5:00 PM Pacific
Salary:
$93,723.55 - $132,003.25 Annually
Building Inspector II
Job Type:
Regular Full-Time
Closing Date:
8/12/24 5:00 PM Pacific
Salary:
$82,930.85 - $100,802.62 Annually
Information Systems Manager
Job Type:
Regular Full-Time
Closing Date: 8/23/24 5:00 PM Pacific
Salary:
$112,512.61 - $136,760.21 Annually
To see more openings with the City of Vallejo and apply, CLICK HERE.
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
Our Movie on Deck event originally scheduled for July 27th has been moved to Thursday, August 1st at 6:30 PM.
Cunningham Aquatic Complex
$5 Entree Fee
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!
BACK TO SCHOOL GLAM JAM: Free Haircuts & School Supplies
Saturday, August 3rd, 11:30 AM 4:30 PM
Children's Wonderland, 360 Gleen St.
This is a FREE community event!
Let's glam up for a fantastic school year! Our Back-toSchool Glam Jam event is your one-stop-shop for free haircuts and essential school supplies. Expert stylists and barbers will be available to provide youth with hair makeovers while they enjoy a fun, festival atmosphere. Meanwhile, parents can pick up complimentary school supplies to ensure their little ones are fully prepared. Come for the glam, stay for the goodies – it's a celebration you won't want to miss! Pre-Registration Required for supply pick-up. call (707) 648-4604.
Register now! Click here
UPCOMING GVRD COMMUNITY EVENTS
Camping Under The Stars
Saturday, August 3rd, 6:00 PM to Sunday, August 4th 8:00 AM
Children's Wonderland Park
$20 per person
Join us for Camping Under The Stars!
Campers will be treated to: Cookout, Lawn games, Activities, Vendors, Light breakfast on the go, S'more and more!
Essential for all Campers: Tent, sleeping bags/air matress and blankets, sleeping apparel, toothbrush and tooth paste
Staff will be on-site during overnight stay for any questions and concerns. Gates will close at 9:00 PM and will re-open at 7:00 AM. Activities will end by 10:15 PM and campers must be within camp site by 11:00 PM.
Register here!
Adaptive Rec Tea Party
Wednesday, August 14th, 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Children's Wonderland Park
$10 Resident/$20 Non-Resident
It's Tea Time! Enjoy refreshing tea and cookies, we will also have games and dancing. This is an adaptive activity and is designed specifically for individuals with disabilities as well as their friends and family.
Click here for more information
uncensored comedy
Get ready for a night of laughter with the Bay Area's top comedians! Headliner Terrell "Big-T" Butler brings his act to Vallejo after headlining major clubs and the Empire State Comedy Fest. Frankie Marcos, a global touring comic, will crack up the Empress for the first time. Alvin Duke, known for his raunchy humor, will keep you on your toes. Hosted by Bay Area Comics founder, Guile Mosher! Don't miss this incredible lineup!
aug 1, 2024 | 7:00-8:30pm
steve freund blues band
Guitarist and producer Steve Freund, praised by Rolling Stone for his "masterful, no-nonsense guitar work," shares his love for the blues. He started in Chicago with legends like Hubert Sumlin and Homesick James. He played with Big Walter Horton and was Sunnyland Slim's main guitarist. Freund also worked with Pinetop Perkins, Jimmy Walker, and James Cotton for nine years.
aug 7, 2024 | 6:30-8:30pm
faith you can see
Tonight's premiere of "Faith You Can See," a Gospel dramamusical by Cindy M. Isaac M.A., explores a family's journey with Leukemia through song, dance, and comedy. Brian Lee Finley stars as "Sammy Harrington," with Min. Christopher Lea in a surprise double role. Candy M. Thomas and Pauletta “PercyMae” Hickerson add drama and laughs, while young actors Faith Cooksey and Osiezhe Bramah bring the climax. Fayette Foster, as "Honey Harrington," adds dynamic special effects and a surprise ending.
aug 10, 2024 | 6:30-8:30pm
Casino royale gala
Join us for an unforgettable night of glamour and excitement at Casino Royale! Enjoy live entertainment, gourmet cuisine, signature cocktails, and fabulous auctions in a lavish James Bond-inspired setting. Dress in black-tie or as your favorite Bond character and support a worthy cause with every spin of the wheel.
Don't miss this exclusive evening of elegance and fun!
aug 17, 2024 | 6:30-8:30pm
organ-ized
Three musicians met in a bar and formed Organ-ized: Eamonn Flynn (organ/vocals), Anthony Paule (guitar/vocals), and Willy Jordan (drums/vocals). Flynn, from Ireland, is known for "The Commitments" and global tours. Paule leads the Anthony Paule Soul Orchestra, with 17 BMA nominations. Jordan, with a diverse background, has performed with Elvin Bishop and Carlos Santana, earning Grammy nominations. Together, they bring a unique blend of talent and experience.
aug 21, 2024 | 8:00-10:00pm
chicago blues
Chicago Blues All-Stars is a Chicago-based blues band blending funk, soul, R&B, and hip-hop. Comprised of longtime friends and Hall of Fame inductees, they have headlined shows like Buddy Guy's Legends and performed at Kingston Mines and House of Blues. Their music has been played on over 200 stations in 22 countries.
aug 28, 2024 | 6:30-8:30pm
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, AUG 1
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
• 6:00-7:00 PM Adult Craft Club
FRIDAY, AUG 2
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
• 2:00-4:45 PM Makery: Open Use
SATURDAY, AUG 3
• 11:00-12:00 PM Yoga @ JFK
MONDAY, AUG 5
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
TUESDAY, AUG 6
• 11:30 AM-12:00 PM Summer Storytime
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
• 3:00-7:00 PM The Makery: Tinker Tuesday
WEDNESDAY, AUG 7
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
THURSDAY, AUG 8
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
FRIDAY, AUG 9
• 12:00-1:00 PM Lunch at the Library
• 2:00-4:45 PM Makery: Open Use
SATURDAY, AUG 10
• 12:00-2:00 PM Poetry in Notion
For more information about the JFK Library, Click Here!
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.
FACEBOOK | (Set us to your favorites so you never miss a post!)
• The City of Vallejo
• Vallejo Police Department
• Vallejo Fire Department
• Vallejo Water Department
• VIP Fiber
INSTAGRAM | instagram.com/cityofvallejo
VALLEJO WEEKLY | vallejoweekly.com
Read our free, digital, weekly newsletter and stay in the know!
SUBSCRIBE | cityofvallejo.net/subscribe
Get our weekly newsletter, city council agendas, important updates and information, press releases and more delivered right to your inbox.
EMERGENCY ALERTS | alertsolano.com
Get real-time alerts about missing persons, severe weather, evacuations, and more.
MYVALLEJO | myvallejo.com
Stay up to date on current projects, provide feedback, and more.
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!
MUSIC I FwD I
REQUEST FOR RESEARCH PARTICIPANTS
Are you newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (T2D) within the last 6-9 months? Your experience matters!
We are conducting a research study to gain insights into the emotional responses and challenges faced by individuals navigating life living with type 2 diabetes. Your participation will contribute to understanding the unique journey of managing this condition.
Who we’re looking for:
Individuals with diagnosed T2D within the past 6-9 months
Must be fluent in English
Individuals who are willing to share personal experiences and perspectives
If selected, willing to share journal entries at least 2 times a week for 3 months regarding experience in living with T2D.
How to Participate:
Please contact Dr. Clipper Young, PharmD (cyoung6@touro.edu) for questions.
• Individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in the last 6 to 9 months
• Fluent in English
• All participants will recieve $100 after completing a 60-90 minute interview
• Some participants will be selected to complete journal entries at least 2 times a week for 3 months for an additional $300
• Individuals willing to share their personal experiences and perspectives surrounding their diagnosis Compensation: Questions? (707) 638-5969
• Principal Investigator, Dr. Clipper Young cyoung6@touro.edu
• Research Assistant, Cherry Myung cmyung@student.touro.edu
• Research Assistant, Shougat Barua sbarua2@student.touro.edu
• Research Assistant, Tristan Rath trath@student.touro.edu
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!
