Interview with...
Sustainable Solano
to discuss the...
Demonstration Food Forest Garden Tour
April 27th across Benicia & Vallejo
Event page [eventbrite.com/e/818782379137]
- Food Forest Tour video: [youtube.com/watch?v=hTvasgLpTq4]
- Elements of a Food Forest Garden Video series: [youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnPW_qdHvSe2wsv9kvKyBoL8qgKnBIaAS]
- Sustainable Backyard Program [sustainablesolano.org/solano-sustainable-backyard]
- Solano Garden program focuses on community gardens: [sustainablesolano.org/solano-gardens]
Vallejo gardens we have worked with:
- Vallejo People’s Garden [vallejopeoplesgarden.org]
- The Vallejo Project [vallejoproject.org]
- First Christian Church [vallejochristian.org]
- Emmanuel Temple [emmanueltemplevallejo.com]
And many more in Vallejo, but these are all active gardens that people can get involved with
- Kyles Temple Community Garden, we weren’t part of installing this garden but this is an active community garden [facebook.com/ktcgardens]
- The Pollinator Pathway was a project that we did in partnership with multiple organizations, Vallejo People’s Green was the main organization but we worked with others
Some of the participating programs...
- Youth Leadership Council (YLC) [sustainablesolano.org/ylc]. The YLC are high school students that have participated in one of our internships [sustainablesolano.org/youth-engagement]. Through the YLC they continue to volunteer with SuSol and provide insight that helps build our internship programs. They will be at the April 27 tour geared toward activities for children: passing out scavenger hunts and planting in repurposed containers
- Food is Free Bay Area: If you harvest from your tree or a neighbors tree, then you can bring the produce to the dates on the calendar where they are accepting donations, private residents also have food stands on certain streets.
Map of FIF locations and event calendar [fifbayarea.org]
Ways to get free food [fifbayarea.org/direct-distribution]
Resources in Solano County [fifbayarea.org/resources-1]
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Check out the latest:
- Traffic [511.org]
- Weather [wunderground.com]
News -
- Vallejo Times Herald [timesheraldonline.com]
- Vallejo Sun [vallejosun.com]
- Benicia Independent [beniciaindependent.com]
- Fairfield Daily Republic [dailyrepublic.com]
- The Vacaville Reporter [thereporter.com]
- Rio Vista Beacon [riovistabeacon.com]
- Napa Valley Register [napavalleyregister.com]
- Center for Biological Diversity [biologicaldiversity.org/news/breaking]
- Indy Bay newswire [indybay.org]
Solano Library event calendar [solanolibrary.libnet.info/events]
Be sure to support -
Other community resources -
- The Ecological Center [ecologycenter.org]
- Animal Rescue! [northbaymorningshow.blogspot.com/2023/04/animal-rescue.html]
- Vallejo Poet Laureate Jacalyn Eyvonne: [facebook.com/jacalyn.eyvonne.author]
- Vallejo Poet Laureate Kathleen Herrmann: [facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091732097112]
Facebook pages
- Vallejo Arts Network [facebook.com/groups/138984779625625]
- Eyes on Vallejo [facebook.com/groups/969366837244942]
- Vallejo Happenings [facebook.com/groups/VallejoHappenings]
- Vallejo City Politics [facebook.com/groups/833317280051203]
- Solano County Community Awareness [facebook.com/groups/215277106946851]
- Vallejo Community [facebook.com/groups/vallejocommunity]
- Benicia Stuff [facebook.com/groups/174953130528268]
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Community News
* "Brendan Riley’s Solano Chronicles: How Mare Island was named" (2024-04-11, timesheraldonline.com/2024/04/11/brendan-rileys-solano-chronicles-how-mare-island-was-named/) [archive.is/qFH9z]
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* "Highway 37 construction delayed a week" (2024-04-10, timesheraldonline.com/2024/04/10/highway-37-construction-delayed-a-week/) [archive.is/Wy0C5]:
Caltrans is scheduled to alternately close eastbound and westbound State Route 37 (SR-37) on four consecutive weekends, but due to the weather the new starting date will be Friday, April 19.
During the 55-hour weekend full highway closures, Caltrans will perform major pavement repair work on eastbound and westbound SR-37 between Solano and Sonoma counties. One traffic direction on SR-37 will be worked on at a time. Detours will be in effect. All work is weather dependent.
Closures will start Friday April 19 at 9 p.m. and conclude on the following Monday, April 22 at 4 a.m..
The following weekend, closures will start Friday, April 26 at 9 p.m. and conclude the following Monday, April 29 at 4 a.m.
Weekend closures on eastbound (EB) SR-37 is scheduled on the weekend of May 3 and May 10. Eastbound SR-37 will be closed and traffic detoured beginning at the NB SR-121 (Sears Point) in Sonoma.
Closures will start Friday May 3 at 9 p.m.. and conclude on the following Monday May 6 at 5 a.m.
The following weekend, closures will start Friday, May 10 at 9 p.m. and conclude on the following Monday, May 13 at 5 a.m.
Motorists traveling eastbound on SR-37 will need to exit left onto northbound SR-121 in Sonoma; make a right on SR-12/SR-121(Carneros Hwy) and continue; right on SR-12/SR-29; enter left for the connector loop Off-ramp back to eastbound SR-37.
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Community Calendar
Art Space Open Mic!
Every 4th Friday, April 26th, May 24th, June 28th
6pm 'til 8pm, FREE!
At the American Canyon Art Space, 300 Napa Junction Road in American Canyon.
Music, spoken word, stand-up, or other performance art! Next door, we host an Art Show of one or more of our member artists. We even provide the refreshments!
Produced by the American Canyon Arts Foundation [amcanart.org]
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2nd Saturdays at the Vallejo Waterfront
Every 2nd Saturday, May 11th, June 8th, July 13th
Produced by TGB Productions [https://linktr.ee/tbgproductions] [facebook.com/TBGProductionsca]
Still accepting vendors with unique products and services to join this monthly marketplace
Apply at [linktr.ee/tbgproductions]!
A List Things You Can Sell! Kettle corn; Lemonade; Pizza; Burgers; Mini Donuts; Tea; Pickles; Salsas; Vegan food; Honey; Salads; Ice cream or sorbet or shaved ice or Italian Ice; Clothing; Antiques; Thrifts; Furnishings; Kid toys; Kawaii stuff; Sportswear or fitness clothing and accessories!
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Youth Poets in the Spotlight
at the Vallejo Naval Historical Museum, 734 Marin st. in Vallejo
Featuring Myla J.
With Poetry Reads, Short Films, Mini Workshops
Produced by Vallejo's Co-Poet Laurates, and by KidsNFilm [kidsnfilm.org]
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34th Annual Rush Ranch Open House
Saturday, April 20th,
Solano Land Trust will host its 34th Annual Rush Ranch Open House on April 20 along with an Earth Day Cleanup that morning at nearby Hill Slough Bridge.
From 9 a.m. until noon, volunteers can start the day at Grizzly Island Road for an environmental cleanup. Then later, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., the all-day outdoor festivities continue at the open house, where visitors of all ages can enjoy a variety of activities depending on interest.
Attendees can meet the horses and foals living at this working ranch and even take a horse-drawn wagon ride through the pastures with Access Adventure (with accessible options). Other opportunities to explore the area include guided walks of Suisun Marsh, which is part of Rush Ranch and home to many endangered species.
Along with the horses and a new baby lamb, visitors can also see the beehive display from the event’s sponsor Tauzer Apiaries.
Over 15 partners and community vendors will have tables set up to display artisanal items, offer knowledge and show support for the event. Some of the attending tables include Erickson Ranch, Laura Ann Designs, The California Native Plant Society, Peña Adobe Historical Society and Crescent Moon Center.
By purchasing from the vendors, shoppers can support a local artist or farmer while also buying a unique gift. Kids can also try their hand at the art and activity station to showcase their own creativity.
For lunch, the Dogfather food truck will be onsite featuring a range of hot dogs and sausages to enjoy at the available picnic table. Guests are also welcome to bring their own food and have a picnic.
Visitors with a thirst for knowledge can attend a guest speaker presentation in the Nature Center from Sustainable Solano. There will also be a raffle for a series of exciting prizes with all proceeds benefitting Solano Land Trust.
For additional questions, call Solano Land Trust’s Engagement Specialist Di Holokahi at (707) 420-1041.
Horse-drawn wagon rides will be available at Rush Ranch’s Open House on April 20
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Mare Island Tree Tour
On Saturday, April 20th, we will meet for coffee, have an introductory talk, go on a tree tour, led by tree marketing expert, Sarah Gaskin of A Plus Tree LLC. We hope you will join us! (Limited to 25 guests).
Experience 142 years of not just naval history, but tree history, as we explore the "roots" of the various tree species on Mare Island.
About this Event -
In 1854, Mare Island’s first Commander (later Admiral), David G. Farragut arrived on a land that was low and flat. Mare Island’s Alden Park, home to a fine collection of trees from many continents and climates of the world, was named for Commander James Alden who carried on Farragut’s tradition of enticing ship captains to bring trees from their voyages. More than a century later, touring the nearly 200 tree species that now live on Mare Island is like touring the world.
About our guide -
Sarah Gaskin is a Registered Consulting Arborist, ISA Certified Arborist, and has her degree in Environmental Science from UC Berkeley. She’s a VP at A Plus Tree, LLC and has been in the tree care industry for over 14 years. Sarah has led initiatives at A Plus pertaining to sustainability solutions, tree health care programs, technology design, and community outreach. Sarah is also on the board of the California Urban Forest Council and loves to be a voice for the treeple.
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Healing Through Sound
Free Community Sound Bath Meditation
Saturday, April 20th, 10am to 11am
at Washington Park in Vallejo
As we navigate through life's ebbs and flows, finding moments to ground ourselves and reconnect with our inner peace becomes essential. This sound bath meditation is designed to do just that - a communal space where you can lay down, close your eyes, and immerse in the healing vibrations of sound. It's a moment to let go, to breathe deeply, and to simply be, surrounded by like-minded individuals.
Whether you're new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, this experience is crafted with love to support everyone in their journey towards wellness. We believe in the power of community and the profound healing that comes from gathering together in intention and harmony.
Produced by I Maintain [@just_fatimah] [@imaintainwithfatimah], in partnership with Watch Me Grow
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Soirée in Paris
to Celebrate & Support the Florence Douglas Center
Saturday, April 20th, 6pm 'til 10pm
Ticket page [theflorencedoulgascenter.org/soiree-in-paris]
Venue page [facebook.com/florencedouglascenter]
This year the theme is “Soirée in Paris”. Festivities include dinner, music, raffle, a grand silent auction, and an exciting live auction. The auctions will feature items donated by local supporters exclusively for this event. The goal of the annual event is to bring the community together to celebrate and raise much-needed funds for the Center’s programs & operations.
The Florence Douglas Center, now in its 47th year of operation, serves the 50+ community of Vallejo and surrounding areas. Our daily calendar is filled with classes, activities, and seminars designed for members and participants age 50+. The Center is the hub of positive energy in Vallejo, encouraging powerful aging, community engagement and healthy vibrant lifestyles for all our participants.
Purchase your Tickets Today Early Bird Tickets FDC Members $65 thru 3/15/24 after $75
General Public $100
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3rd Annual Benicia Diversity Festival
Saturday, April 20th, 12 noon to 5pm
at Benicia City Park, 150 Military W., in Benicia
Event page [facebook.com/events/396029409831245]
As a cornerstone event for promoting unity and inclusivity, the Benicia Diversity Festival will feature a diverse lineup of performers and musicians, reflecting the vibrant tapestry of our community.
Attendees can expect an eclectic mix of performances spanning various cultural traditions, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy. From dynamic dance routines to soulful musical acts, the festival will captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
"The Benicia Diversity Festival is a celebration of the unique contributions that each individual brings to our community," said Bart Sullivan President of the Benicia Performing Arts Foundation.
"Through the universal language of music and performance, we come together to embrace our differences and celebrate our shared humanity. We are proud to host this event for the third consecutive year and look forward to welcoming attendees from all walks of life."
The Benicia Diversity Festival is made possible through the generous support of sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who share in the foundation's commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. Their contributions and donations from the public help ensure that the festival remains accessible to all members of the community, free of charge.
Admission to the festival is free, and families are encouraged to attend and participate in the festivities. Whether you come to enjoy the performances, connect with fellow community members, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, the Benicia Diversity Festival promises an enriching experience for all!
Produced by the Benicia Performing Arts Foundation [facebook.com/beniciaperformingarts]
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29th Annual Benicia Classic Car Show
Sunday, April 21st
Event page [classiccarshowbenicia.com]
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Lynch Canyon Kite Festival
Saturday, May 4, 2024 from 10am to 2pm, $FREE
Saturday, May 4, 2024 from 10am to 2pm, $FREE
Event page [solanolandtrust.org/lynch-canyon-kite-festival]
Bay breezes, grassy hills and open fields make for ideal kite-flying conditions at Lynch Canyon.
The festival is FREE! Solano County Parks has generously waived the parking fee for this day.
All ages and ability levels are welcome!
Dogs are not allowed (to protect wildlife, rare plants, and free-range cattle).
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Benicia Art Weekend
Saturday & Sunday, May 4th & 5th
Event page [visitbenicia.org/benicia-art-weekend]
This NEW EVENT will feature diverse artwork, live music, and tasty bites in galleries & studios all across Benicia.
We’ve been gearing up for it at Happy Life Pottery by creating a special selection of amazing TEAPOTS - and a first time release of sculptures by Amy Stellato!
You won't want to miss out on this awesome experience, so mark your calendars
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Intro in Permaculture
May 11th, 11am to 1pm
at the Johnson Ranch Garden, in the First Christian Church, 1035 Indiana St. in Vallejo.
Registration required
Event page [solanolibrary.libnet.info/event/10476238]
Learn how to apply permaculture principles to design your home, garden and community! This interactive and all-age friendly workshop will dive into the principles of permaculture and how they can be applied in and out of the garden. Attendees will have the opportunity to plant herbs and and companion plants in an established tree guild at First Christian Church in Vallejo. Registration is required.
Part of Sustaining Solano. About the project [solanolibrary.com/services/sustaining-solano].
This project is supported in whole or in part by the U.S. Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act, administered in California by the State Librarian.
If you and your party need transportation, you may request a ride when you register. Attendees may be picked up at the Vallejo John F. Kennedy Library or Vallejo Springstowne Library and transported to the program location.
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Bay Area Butterfly Festival
Sunday, May 15th, 7am to 5pm, $5, children 12 & under are Free!
At the Vallejo People's Garden, 850 Nimitz Avenue, on Mare Island in Vallejo!
Event page [facebook.com/events/1857211164694902]
The Bay Area Butterfly Festival will serve to educate and inspire the public about environmental conservation and the various ways people can support pollinators, including the Western Monarch Butterfly.
Vallejo People's Garden [vallejopeoplesgarden.org]
The Monarch Milkweed Project [monarchmilkweedproject.org]
Solano Resource Conservation District [solanorcd.org]
Contra Costa Resource Conservation District [ccrcd.org]
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The Obtainium Cup Contraptor's Rally is scheduled for Saturday July 30th.
We're seeking makers, artists and craftspeople to vend at this event on Mare Island.
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Contacts
Mina Loera-Diaz
Mina Loera-Diaz
Vice Mayor and District 3 Councilmember
[Mina.Diaz@cityofvallejo.net] [707-648-4426]
Tina Arriola
District 6 Councilmember
[https://www.facebook.com/tina.arriola]
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Vallejo has our own City of Vallejo municipal fiber!
Mira Theatre Guild is now hooked up with very high speed and low cost internet/phone and our surrounding neighbors can join in!
We're grateful, much better service at lower cost.
Poetry Submissions Now Open To All Youth for the upcoming anthologies, Volume 1 and Volume 2.
And some music too!
* Sly & The Family Stone mash-up [archive.org/details/lenlow-do-your-thing-to-the-music-2021]
* Sly & The Family Stone mash-up [archive.org/details/lenlow-do-your-thing-to-the-music-2021]
* Bob Marley Rainbow Remix [youtube.com/watch?v=QxKcPp2TcmQ]
* Duran Duran Pressure Off [youtube.com/watch?v=5qFhSWA9Cz4]
