Vallejo Weekly | Vol 12 | Issue 8

message from mike

Hello, Vallejo!

This week, the City of Vallejo once again opened up the Warming Center to help the unsheltered in our Community.   We want to thank the volunteers and Staff for providing this service at a moment’s notice.  What started off with about seven unhoused individuals seeking shelter Sunday night, turned into 25 people seeking shelter by Tuesday night.

At the same location in the Vallejo Room on Tuesday morning, the Housing Authority of the City of Vallejo and Staff kicked off the Housing Choice (Section 8)  Voucher program-the first time the City has accepted preliminary applications for these housing vouchers since 2015. Please see our Weekly flyer with program details. This lottery system will provide much needed housing assistance in our Community.  Sign-ups for the interest list  https://waitlistcheck.com/CA1004   continue through March 5, 5:00 pm (PST).

I’d also like to thank the Measure P Oversight Committee for taking the first step with the City of Vallejo in supporting Staff’s recommendations for improving street conditions.  We appreciate the Committee’s passion and input and look forward to strengthening our partnership with the Committee and Council to help Vallejo residents benefit from Measure P funds.

Respectfully,

Mike Malone

Vallejo City Manager

The Housing Authority of the City of Vallejo (HACV) will start accepting preliminary applications for its 2024 Housing Choice

(Section 8) Voucher Interest List

BEGINNING FEBRUARY 20, 2024 AT 8:00 AM

Vallejo, CA - For the first time since 2015, the Housing Authority of the City of Vallejo (HACV) is excited to announce that it will be accepting preliminary applications for its Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Interest List beginning on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at 8:00 a.m.

The application period will continue through Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

To apply, please visit https://waitlistcheck.com/ CA1004 using a computer or smart device.

AN EMAIL ADDRESS IS REQUIRED

As an accommodation, the HACV will provide technical support to assist with the submission

of electronic applications and email creation at the Vallejo Room, lower level of the JFK Library, located at 505 Santa Clara St., Vallejo, CA 94590, from Tuesday, February 20, 2024, through Friday, February 23, 2024, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (PST).

A self-help kiosk is also available located at 200 Georgia St., Vallejo, CA 94590, from Tuesday, February 20, 2024, through Tuesday, March 5, 2024, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. to submit electronic applications.

Paper applications are available by request.

After the interest list closes, an electronic lottery will be conducted by the HACV to select preliminary applications to be placed on the waitlist list to be considered for a Housing Choice Voucher.

To read the full public notice in English, Spanish, and Tagalog, visit cityofvallejo.co/ HousingApplication

For more information, visit the Housing Authority's Frequently Asked Questions page by CLICKING HERE.

Syber Fiber's Birthday Event

Residence of Vallejo welcome! Come, celebrate,Syber Fiber's third birthday. All attendees who sign up will be entered into a raffle to win a free party gift.

WHEN:

Friday, February 23, 2024 - 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

WHERE:

400 Santa Clara Street, Ste. 100 Vallejo, CA 94590

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• Vallejo Water Department

• VIP Fiber

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Vallejo Together Annual Memorial Ceremony

Join Vallejo Together to illuminate and honor the named and unnamed people who have died without housing, while bringing attention to the preventable tragedy of homeless deaths.

Visit www.vallejotogether.org for more resources and information on ways to support the unhoused.

DATE: Tuesday, February 27, 2024

TIME: 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

LOCATION:

Vallejo City Hall- Civic Center Plaza

555 Santa Clara Street

Vallejo Weekly

Birth Justice Solano 2024: Addressing Racial Disparities in Birth Outcomes

Join us for the Birth Justice Solano 2024 Event in Vallejo on Sunday, February 25, where we’ll bring together experts, doulas, nurses and public health administrators for an informative and supportive event. Let’s address the racial

disparities in birth outcomes and work towards a healthier future for all! To register for the event, click here. If you are Interested in being a vendor, click here.

WHEN: Sunday, February 25 from 10:00am –3:00pm

WHERE: Touro University, 105 Owen Dr., Vallejo 94592

SAVE THE DATE:

VOENA’S 2024 MASKED MELODY

FIRST ANNUAL GALA & AUCTION

WHEN:

Sunday, April 14, 2024

5:00PM - 9:00PM

WHERE:

Savage & Cooke

1097 Nimitz Avenue (on Mare Island) Vallejo, CA 94592

Join us at VOENA's Masked Melody Gala & Auction for a memorable evening supporting our unique children's choir. Celebrating diversity through music, VOENA teaches children aged 5-18 from various backgrounds to sing in over 23 languages, fostering global unity.

As a 501(c)3 non-profit, we're dedicated to making music education accessible. This event aims to raise $25,000 for scholarships and programs to serve underserved schools, ensuring every child can explore their musical potential.

Enjoy live performances, a silent & live auction, excellent food and drinks, and the opportunity to impact young lives. Your support is invaluable to us and the communities we serve.

We can't wait to celebrate with you!

MORE ABOUT VOENA:

VOENA Children’s Choir is a professional program, unique because of its no-audition policy.

VOENA teaches children ages 5-18 ethnically diverse music, instilling in them an appreciation and enthusiasm for different languages and cultures while cultivating, what director Annabelle Marie calls, the VOENA BIG 3:

1) accept the challenge,

2) be self-motivated, and

3) embrace an ethic for hard work. VOENA participants learn to think beyond borders while singing music from many countries, all in the native language, promoting peace through the exchange of culture. Through international tours, our child ambassadors celebrate diversity abroad, performing cultural songs specific to each country visited, giving value to our differences.

Vallejo Weekly

February 24 is Government Communicators Day!

Government Communicators Day is a day dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the invaluable contributions of public communicators across the nation. This special day serves as an opportunity to spotlight the tireless efforts of government communicators who work diligently behind the scenes.

Ever wonder what a Public Information Officer (PIO) or Communications Manager really does?

PIOs/Communications Managers do more of what you don’t see than you realize. They work tirelessly behind the scenes, honing their skills to make the complex look effortless.

Here's why PIOs/Communications Managers are so crucial to any government agency:

SPOTTING THE UNSEEN: PIOs/Communications Managers help uncover problems you didn’t know existed, then assist in finding solutions. They're the guardians of transparency and accountability.

SERVING THE PUBLIC: Their primary focus is always on serving YOU, the public, and stakeholders. They prioritize understanding

the needs and expectations of the communities they serve.

WEARING MANY HATS: From community engagement to media liaison, internal communication, stakeholder management, design, social media management, and morePIOs/Communications Managers are versatile multitaskers.

THE BEST MULTI-TOOL: Having a good PIO/ Communications Manager is like having the best multi-tool in the box. They adapt and thrive under intense scrutiny and pressure, ensuring effective communication even in the toughest situations.

WORTH THE INVESTMENT: Good PIOs/ Communications Managers are hard to find, but when you do, it’s worth every penny. They bring professionalism, a wealth of experience, and dedication to the table, helping communities evolve and providing exemplary service.

Next time you see a PIO/Communications Manager in action, remember all the hard work and dedication that goes into their role. They're the unsung heroes behind the scenes, ensuring you're informed, engaged, and heard.

Mare Island Historic Park Foundation Annual Report

The Mare Island Historic Park Foundation (MIHPF) has released their Annual Report, looking back on progress, as well as the challenges, of 2023. While MIHPF described the immediate postCOVID years as having a theme of “surviving", they feel that in 2023 they have turned a corner in the direction of “thriving”.

The Foundation thanks the generous supporters and tireless volunteers that help fulfill their mission. Below are some highlights of MIHPF outreach and progress in 2023, many of

which are detailed in the subsequent paragraphs of the Annual Report. The full report can be viewed here: 2023 Annual Report.

To find out more about MIHPF, see upcoming events for 2024, or to get involved, please visit: www.MIHPF.org

THE FOUNDATION'S MISSION:

To collect, preserve, and interpret the history of the Mare Island Naval Shipyard and related entities, and to present exhibits and programs that explore, educate, and celebrate the diverse military and cultural aspects of the base.

2023 ANNUAL REPORT HIGHLIGHTS

• Mare Island History Night at the Ferry Taproom

• Flyway Festival: Open Chapel Hours & Booth

• American Legion Presentation, Mount Diablo Post 246

• Speakers Series: Incredible Journey, Dr. Rob Hoffman, Nuclear physicist, Lawrence

Livermore National Labs

• Wardroom USS Frank Cable MINS History Presentation

• Easter Chorale Concert: First Annual

• Cemetery Tour: ROTC Junior Fairfield

• Speakers Series: MINS Hospital Presentation, Dr. Tom Snyder

• Benicia Museum Speakers Series: MINS History Presentation

• Mare Island Brewing Co.: War Bond Beer Event

• Memorial Day: Navy League

• Community Organization Presentations: Vallejo Rotary Club

• Visit Vallejo Installation Dinner: MINS History Presentation

• Leadership Vallejo Cohort: MINS History Presentation

• Solano Realtors Association Meeting: MINS History Presentation

• Speakers Series: Shackleton's Voyage, Captain Scott Shackleton

• Naval Order of San Francisco: MINS History Presentation

• Speakers Series: Cryptology, Ralph Simpson, author of Crypto Wars

• SOMIRA Charity Row Whaleboat Race to Napa: Participated

• Founders Day Weekend: Speakers Series, Standing Together Panel, Behind the Fences Bus Tour, Library Dedication, and Founders Day Festival, September 14-16

• Pedalfest : Bike Tours of MINS

• Mare Island Halloween Event: Participated with a Beer Garden at the Admiral's Mansion

• Vallejo Waterfront Weekend: Bus Tours of MINS

• Holiday Concerts: Holiday Choral Extravaganza, Voena Children's Choir & Candlelight Christmas Concert

VALLEJO PASSENGER RAIL FEASIBILITY STUDY COMMUNITY WORKSHOP

The City of Vallejo and the Solano Transporta�on Authority partnered on a passenger rail service study that assessed the feasibility of a rail service that links Vallejo with other communi�es. The Vallejo Passenger Rail Study explores opportuni�es for rail transit service between the City of Vallejo and other North Bay communi�es such as American Canyon, Suisun City, Fairfield, Napa, and Novato. The study developed a conceptual founda�on for a new transit service that would provide Vallejo residents, employees, and visitors with new regional mobility through safe and reliable rail transit service.

At this workshop, we will be discussing the study process, the rail service op�ons, and next steps for advancing the study findings. The City of Vallejo and the Solano Transporta�on Authority look forward to hearing what the community thinks and is commi�ed to improving transporta�on services for all!

If informa�on is needed in Spanish, Tagalog, or another language, or if par�es with a disability as provided by the American Disabili�es Act require special accommoda�ons or aides in order to par�cipate in the public mee�ng,

contact LSC Transporta�on Consultants as soon as possible or at least 48 hours prior to the mee�ng

Thursday, March 7th

4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

In Person: Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library, Joseph Room 505 Santa Clara St, Vallejo, CA 94590

Or Online via Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83523012838

Passcode: 11111

Telephone: 1 669 444 9171

Meeting ID: 835 2301 2838

PET OF THE WEEK

KATYA

Domestic Shorthair, female, young

Meet Katya! This beautiful 6-month-old kitten can't wait to bring her special blend of cuddles, curiosity, and love to one lucky family! Katya is a clever explorer with a heart full of love.

Her twinkling blue-green eyes are bright and inquisitive. Her lovely gray and white coat has patches of gray and brown in the cutest of places. Katya's gentle purrs calm the soul, making her the ideal companion for cozy evenings spent reading or watching TV. She is incredibly social and gets along well with other cats, too! To meet Katya, go to HSNB.org and fill out a cat adoption interest application.

PET OF THE WEEK

MOCHA

Boxer/Pit Bull Terrier, female, adult

Meet Mocha, a beautiful 6-year-old Boxer and Pit Bull Terrier mix with a personality as warm and comforting as her namesake. Mocha is a sweet, affectionate, and loyal companion with a heart of gold! Her gentle and easygoing personality allows her to adapt well to various living

situations. She is equally well-suited for families, couples, or individuals looking for a loyal and affectionate companion. Mocha is house-trained and ready to become a cherished member of a family that will appreciate her warm and affectionate personality and provide her with the love and care she deserves! To meet Mocha, go to HSNB.org and fill out a dog adoption interest application.

UPCOMING GVRD COMMUNITY EVENTS

The Greater Vallejo Recreation District Presents:

BLACK HISTORY MONTH "HOMECOMING" BLOCK PARTY!

Saturday, February 24th - 12-5 PM

FREE EVENT!

Children's Wonderland Park

Join us in the celebration of Black History Month. Enjoy entertainment, food, vendors, and more!

Join in the fun with a variety of other events for youth and families brought to you by the Greater Vallejo Recreation District (GVRD).

The GVRD Main Office (registrations & reservations) is temporarily relocated to Cunningham Aquatic Complex (801 Heartwood Ave). Open M-F 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Sat 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. All GVRD Board & Committee Meetings are held at 401 Amador St (administration, finance, & human resources).

To pre-register for events or for more information on programs, events, classes and activities visit www.gvrd.org, call (707) 648-4600, or email recreation@gvrd.org.

View the GVRD Spring 2024 Activity Guide for more programs, events, classes and activities.

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."

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.

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!

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

SAVE THE DATE: “It’s your Lucky Weekend! Help make Vallejo Greener!” Tree Planting Event

WHAT: Come plant trees to help beautify Mare Island Preserve and enhance the stunning views for future generations!

WHEN:

March 16 and 17, 2024

8:30 am- Noon (registration begins at 8:30 am, planting from 9 am-noon)

WHERE:

Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve 167 O’Hara Court Vallejo, CA 94592

Come light rain or shine (if heavy rain, we will need to cancel the event and will send out an update)

Please bring your own water bottles and dress appropriately for the weather with closedtoed shoes, long pants and layers. Wear insect spray and sunscreen. There may be ticks or rattlesnakes (we’re in the wild, after all, so dress as if you’re going on a hike and ready to have fun and get dirty!) You’ll want to dust off your clothes before heading home. We’ll have snacks for participants!

Participatory Budgeting Cycle 7 Update

On Jan. 29th, a resolution was adopted authorizing the reallocation of $53,000 in Cycle 7 unspent funds from the “Reentry Program for Offenders” project to the “Rescue Equipment & Trailer” project. REASONS FOR RECOMMENDATION Per Resolution No. 21-126, the Reentry Program for Offenders project was allocated $53,000 of Cycle 7 Participatory Budgeting (PB) funds. The project's implementing partner, Solano County Probation Department’s Center for Positive Change, communicated with City staff that it was unable to execute this project and refunded the entire PB allocation for the project. The Participatory Budgeting Rulebook provides that funding can be reallocated to the next top-voted project. From the Cycle 7 vote results, the next top-voted project is the “Rescue Equipment &Trailer” project. Council action is needed to accept the staff recommendation recognizing the project as a winning project and to transfer the unspent funds.

The "Reentry Program for Offenders" Project

After the agreement with the project proponents was finalized and funds were dispersed, staff

received notice that the project could not be carried out. In October of 2022, Katherine Ward from the Solano County Probation Department’s Center for Positive Change expressed that staffing limitations were ultimately the determining factor in their inability to implement this project and the funds were returned. Participatory Budgeting Rulebook The Participatory Budgeting Rulebook, which is approved by the City Council, provides that in the event available funds do not cover the cost of the next highest vote-getting project, subject to available resources and the discretion of the City or other agencies, the City Council "may attempt to secure additional money to complete the project[], partially fund the next highest votegetting project, or split the remaining funding between any tied projects." If the project cannot be completed with partial funds, the remaining funds will go to the project with the next most votes that can be fully funded, or into a reserve fund. (PB Rulebook, p.9) With the direction of the Participatory Budgeting Rulebook, staff recommends funding the next highest vote getting project, the "Rescue Equipment and Trailer" project. This project will be implemented by the Vallejo Fire Department, which has confirmed that it can implement the project with partial funding.

* See funding allocations on next page

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 22

• Makery: Make it Thurs.! Black History Month Inspired Invention Workshop 3 - 7 PM

• Homework Help - 3:30-5:30 PM

• ESL Conversation - 5:30 PM

• Poetry Slam – Black History Month 6:00-7:30 PM

FRIDAY, FEB 23

• Makery: Open Use - 2:00-4:45 PM

• ESL Conversation - 5:30 PM

• Comedy Show – Starring OG Vicc 6:00-7:30 PM

MONDAY, FEB 26

• Evening Book Club - A Lesson Before Dying by

Ernest J. Gaines - 6:00 PM

TUESDAY, FEB 27

• Baby Bounce - 9:30 AM

• Family Storytime - 10:30 AM

• Road to Employment - 2 - 4 PM

• Makery: Tinker Tuesday - Textiles 3 -7 PM

• Homework Help - 3:30-5:30 PM

• ESL Conversation - 5:30 PM

WEDNESDAY, FEB 28

• Tech Help - 12 – 2 PM

• Bike Safety Program - 2 - 3 PM

• Read to a Dog - 4 - 5 PM

THURSDAY, FEB 29

• Makery: Make it Thurs.! - Robotic Hands - 3 - 7 PM

• Homework Help 3:30-5:30 PM

• ESL Conversation 5:30 PM

For more information about the JFK Library, Click Here!