Northbay UpRising morning show

We are a group of Vallejo residents working to make the air and environment better for all here in our community. We have monthly meetings open to all, and we welcome a diverse participation from all Vallejo residents including the voices of our youth. We have worked to build a network of air monitors in Vallejo to help us know when there is unsafe air around us, and to help us learn about potential problems and advocate for change to make our air and our health better.

---

Citizen Air Monitoring Network, via facebook.com/groups/303126756731690/)

For many years, we have observed that our AQI or air quality index turns from good to moderate, or sometimes to bad when the wind shifts directionally and blows from east to west. We speculated that this is likely due to polluted air from the Central Valley, or maybe from the refineries in West Contra Costa County and Benicia. But those are only educated guesses.

This year, we finally have the opportunity to identify with a great degree of confidence the composition of those pollutants and likely get an indication of their source. Our partners from the University of California - Davis have installed a Toxic-metal Aerosol Real Time Analysis Instrument (TARTA) and a rotating DRUM instrument that collects particulate matter of different sizes that will be analyzed in a specialized laboratory in the coming months. In addition, they have also installed a wind sensor with these two specialty instruments.

We thank our friends from the UC Davis Air Quality Research Center and the Department of Human Ecology for the generous use of these instruments, free of charge to the Citizen Air Monitoring Network of Vallejo. And of course to our Volunteers and gracious host in Glen Cove whose home has a stunning and unobstructed view of Vallejo's Eastern Front.

(Thanks to UC Davis Air Quality Research Center!)

Spotlight on...

Vallejo Creative Reuse

[creativereusevallejo.org] [facebook.com/creativereusevallejo]

Located at 531 Capitol Street, in downtown Vallejo

open by appointment (707) 788-8171 // creativevallejo@gmail.com

* "Creative Reuse of Vallejo offers free art supplies, workspace; The nonprofit seeks to make art more accessible but has struggled to keep its doors open" (2024-01-05, https://www.vallejosun.com/creative-reuse-of-vallejo-offers-free-art-supplies-workspace/) [https://archive.is/Ot2cG] [begin excerpt]:

In a ground floor shop just below the Legacy at Sonoma apartments in downtown Vallejo, shelves overflow with art supplies in a riot of color, surrounding the large work tables in the center of the room.

Need to patch those jeans but don’t have the right fabric? Interested in taking up crochet? Perhaps you want to get into painting, but don’t have the funds to invest in canvas, paint and brushes – Creative Reuse of Vallejo, located at 531 Capitol St. is the place to go.

Kristin Woods opened the nonprofit Creative Reuse of Vallejo in September 2022 to provide low cost art supplies, a workspace, and make creativity more accessible to the people of Vallejo. She said there’s no need to go out and buy a glue gun, card stock and a set of colored pencils when you want to make one greeting card. Creative Reuse of Vallejo has it all.

Woods was inspired by the East Bay Depot for Creative Reuse in Oakland, which opened in 1979 to provide space for artists, educators and community members to receive low cost supplies while making their lives simpler and more sustainable.

Woods said her goal is to provide a place for people to be creative and share things. She’s planning on offering more free workshops and holding future events like an ugly sweater making workshop and an upcycle fashion show. [end excerpt]

- image caption: Kristin Woods in the Create Reuse of Vallejo space in downtown Vallejo. Photo: Gretchen Zimmermann.

* (update from Kristin Woods):

Thank you Dr G for having me on Ozcat radio this morning. I tried to plug all downtown businesses I could but forgot Momo’s 😫 Please, please support @momoscafe we need them back open. Support them in donating, buy a shirt and share your merch! Designed by @chalberto at Northstar. #Vallejo

===*===*===*===*===*===

Community News

* "Vallejo’s mobile crisis response team calls for city aid to avoid shutdown; IHART sent layoff notices to all its staff for the end of May" (2025-05-12, https://www.vallejosun.com/vallejos-mobile-crisis-response-team-calls-for-city-aid-to-avoid-shutdown/) [https://archive.is/NpFOL]

---

* "The bay’s best deal is a $19 two-hour cruise. Don’t let the destination hold you back" (2025-01-23, https://www.sfchronicle.com/totalsf/article/san-francisco-bay-ferry-20049214.php) [https://archive.is/U1H5y]

---

* "Legacy of Maria Guevara still resonates; Late Vallejo Together Founder continues to inspire through her advocacy for unhoused communities" (2025-05-06, https://www.timesheraldonline.com/2025/05/06/the-legacy-of-maria-guevara/) [https://archive.is/9tOj3]

---

* "Vallejo Juneteenth extends application deadline to May 31" (2025-05-09, https://www.timesheraldonline.com/2025/05/09/vallejo-juneteenth-extends-application-deadline-to-may-31/) [https://archive.is/Id8eo]

---

* "Singing, dancing and joking, Cinco de Mayo joins 2nd Friday Art Walk" (2025-05-10, https://www.timesheraldonline.com/2025/05/10/singing-dancing-and-joking-cinco-de-mayo-joins-2nd-friday-art-walk/) [https://archive.is/MHvlw]

---

* "Local student selected as Congressional Art Competition Winner; Isabella Macias, a sophomore at American Canyon High School will be flown to Washington D.C., where her work will be displayed" (2025-05-10, https://www.timesheraldonline.com/2025/05/10/local-student-selected-as-congressional-art-competition-winner/) [https://archive.is/uFw5n]

---

* "Vallejoans gather to commemorate the new and improved Lake Dalwigk Park; Vallejo’s District 6 receives park improvements due to a 4.7 million dollar grant" (2024-12-19, https://www.timesheraldonline.com/2024/12/19/vallejoans-gather-to-commemorate-the-new-and-improved-lake-dalwigk-park/) [https://archive.is/NGBBp]

---

GO SEAWEEDS!

Home games in Vallejo listed at [santarosascubadivers.com]

Next game up: May 31st, 6:30pm, versus Dublin Leprechauns [dublinleprechauns.com]

* "Under further review, Seaweed returning to Vallejo; Minor league squad will play nine games at Wilson Park and play for two different cities, team names" (2025-05-02, https://www.timesheraldonline.com/2025/05/02/under-further-review-seaweed-returning-to-vallejo/) [https://archive.is/vze7j]

* "Kevin Reilly saves the ship in Vallejo" (2025-05-04, https://www.pecosleague.com/pecosleague.asp?page=28&article_id=14274) [https://archive.is/mVdXp]

---

* "Vallejo’s rich history of baseball tales" (2025-03-06, https://www.timesheraldonline.com/2025/03/06/brendan-rileys-solano-chronicles-vallejos-rich-history-of-baseball-tales/amp/) [https://archive.is/buTFs]

---

* "How to plan an all-natives Sonoma County garden; Transform your Sonoma County yard into a thriving, all-native oasis! Discover the best plants, design tips, and eco-friendly strategies to support local wildlife and create a resilient, water-wise landscape" (2025-02-07, https://www.sonomacountygazette.com/sonoma-county-news/how-to-plan-an-all-natives-sonoma-county-garden/) [https://archive.is/iqDxs]

---

* "Ancient power: Where age-old tradition defines real politics, and will for decades to come; Traditional governance models in Africa are successfully incorporated into the modern sociopolitical life" (2025-01-22, https://www.rt.com/africa/611390-nigeria-modern-political-life/) [https://archive.is/IxNas]

---

* "Steve Jobs Swore the 10-Minute Rule Made Him Smarter. Modern Neuroscience Is Discovering He Was Right; Stuck on a tough problem? Do what Jobs would have done and follow the 10-minute rule" (2024-09-26, https://www.inc.com/jessica-stillman/steve-jobs-swore-10-minute-rule-made-him-smarter-modern-neuroscience-discovering-he-was-right.html) [https://archive.is/fhdPm]

* " 'Take A Walk': Steve Jobs’ 10-Minute Rule Can Skyrocket Creativity, Say Experts" (2024-09-27, https://www.boredpanda.com/steve-jobs-10-minute-rule-made-him-smarter-neuroscience-experts-confirm/) [https://archive.is/XES8R]

---

* "Microgreens Deliver Major Nutritional Benefits" (2024-12-18, https://www.diablogazette.com/2024/12/microgreens-deliver-major-benefits/) [https://archive.is/JKJRG]

---

===*===*===*===*===*===

Community Calendar

ParkFest

Saturday, May 17th, 12 noon 'til 7pm

Event page [amcanart.org/art-extravaganza-2]

Produced by the American Canyon Arts Foundation [amcanart.org]

---

Bay Area Butterfly Festival

Sunday, June 1st, 10am 'til 5pm, $10 adults, free for children 12 & under!

At the Mare Island Promenade, 860 Nimitz Ave.

Event page [facebook.com/events/1464767211630435]

A festival with music, lots of food, vendors, arts and crafts, plant sales, presentations, a huge children’s section, face painting, workshops and fun for all.

---

2nd Saturday's Vallejo SummerFest

Saturday, June 14th, 11am 'til 4pm

At the Vallejo Waterfront Park, adjacent to the Ferry Terminal, corner of Georgia st. and Mare Island pkwy!

Event page [facebook.com/events/1278439753260774]

Join us as we open 2nd Saturday’s Vallejo community waterfront marketplace. Sip n’ Savor delicious food trucks, drinks and treats, test out and sample new products, enjoy art and handcrafted creations, checkout local vendors, then enjoy live music and jam to the latest DJ mixes by the water.

Bring a blanket or some lawn chairs, invite your friends and jam with us this Summer at the waterfront

Series Dates Include:

June 14th Sip n’ Savor Summer

July 12th Jazzy July

Aug 9th Sip n’ Thrift

===*===*===

Solano County Black Owned Businesses (updated 2022)

[beniciablacklivesmatter.weebly.com/black-owned-businesses.html]

===*===*===

The Sparrow Project — First Baptist Church Vallejo

[thesparrowproject.fbcvallejo.com]

Free meals for the community so that nobody in Vallejo goes hungry.

===*===*===

Loma Vista Farm

[lomavistafarm.org]

Vallejo Peoples Garden

Sunday 9am-11am

1055 Azuar Dr., Mare Island

Unity Garden

Sunday 10 am-1 pm

2166 Sacramento Street

Kyles Temple Community Garden

Mondays 3-5 pm

2807 Sonoma Blvd.

---

Benicia Community Gardens

a project of Sustainable Solano

[sustainablesolano.org/join-benicia-community-gardens]

[sustainablesolano.org/benicia-community-gardens]

[sustainablesolano.org/benicia-community-gardens/community-gardens]

Swenson Garden is located on the grounds of Heritage Presbyterian Church, 1400 East Second St., Benicia

Avant Garden is located at 400 First St., Benicia

===*===*===

East Bay Farmer's Markets

[https://edibleeastbay.com/east-bay-farmers-markets/]

including Vallejo, Benicia, Contra Costa County, etc.

Sonoma Valley farmer's markets

list from West County Gazette, October 2024

===*===*===

And some music too!
* 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]

---

California Fishing Passport

[wildlife.ca/gov/fishing/passport]

---

1400 Tennessee St, Vallejo

(707) 652-5259

===*===*===

Ribbon Cutting, Grand Opening of one and only Soccer Field in Vallejo 🎉 Contact Eduardo Paniagua, owner of La Cuchara Restaurant, 105 Couch Street, Vallejo (707) 654-8284 to get information about using the Soccer Field

===*===*===

2025 Citizen Science Project: sampling the Napa River in Vallejo

Napa River water quality

Vallejo's Napa River has a long history of pollution from industrial sources, the local wastewater plant and rainwater runoff. Companies have been fined for violating water pollution laws during recent years. We want to sample the Mare Island Strait to better understand what's in the water, so we can work on improving the river strategically.

Why native plants?

Native plants are not only beautiful, they also benefit our ecosystem in multiple ways. Native plants require less water than non-native plants, and their robust root systems help filter and clean water before it runs off or percolates into the ground. Native plants don't rely on chemical fertilizers, an they provide food and shelter for native pollinators and wildlife.

Our free native plants are available to residents in 94590 or 94589 zip codes, where many neighborhoods have histories of discriminatory housing practices and increased pollution burdens.

Questions? Comments? Want to collaborate or volunteer? Contact annie @ocefoundation.org (510) 910-4535

Our Children's Earth [www.ocefoundation.org]

Rose Foundation for communities & the environment

California Sportfishing Protection Alliance

===*===*===

Support the Monarch Migration

Help Monarch Watch Get Milkweeds in the Ground

Monarch butterfly numbers are at an all-time low. Many pollinators are declining as well. Loss of habitat threatens the monarch migration. Your support for habitat threatens the monarch migration. Your support for habitat restoration will help sustain monarchs, pollinators, ground-nesting birds and other wildlife. Over 70% of our native plants and more than 30% of our crops are pollinated by insects.

Your generous contributions allow us to work with nurseries to produce and distribute hundreds of thousands of milkweeds each year. Donations are used to underwrite our Free Milweeks for Restoration program through which we distribute milweeds to organizations that lack funds for habitat restoration.

Donate to Monarch Watch: monarchwatch.org/donate

To apply for free milkweeds, please visit monarchwatch.org/free-milkweeds

To obtain milkweeds for gardens, please visit our Milkweed Market via milkweedmarket.org

Visit Monarch Watch online at monarchwatch.org or connect with us via Facebook, Instagram, or X.com (Twitter) for the latest monarch news and information.

===*===*===

Green House Calls [https://risingsunopp.org/programs/ghc/]

Provided by BAYREN and Rising Sun Center for Opportunity

(510) 665-1501 ext. 300

Our Climate Careers program provides energy and water efficiency services, called Green House Calls, to households throughout the greater Bay Area and city of Stockton

The best part? It won’t cost you anything. Really.

Take part in an in-person or virtual Green House Call by completing our 15-minute online survey to determine your personalized efficiency needs.

What do I receive when I participate in a Green House Call?

As part of your Green House Call, you’ll receive:

LED light bulbs

High-efficiency bathroom and kitchen faucet aerators and high-efficiency showerhead(s) (same pressure, less water)

A toilet leak detection test

Your choice of: a smart power strip ($70 value), two smart energy plugs, OR a single burner induction cooktop

One smart LED light bulb

Energy savings tips booklet

Foam weather tape

===*===*===

The Vallejo First 5 Center // at 3375 Sonoma Blvd. Suite #10 in Vallejo // [https://www.solanocounty.com/depts/first5/vallejo_first_5_center.asp]

===*===*===

Solano County Behavioral Health

[solanocounty.com/depts/bh/about.asp] // [facebook.com/solanocountybh]

Healing Through Stories: A Discussion Panel

May 22 | 2 PM – 3:30 PM

John F. Kennedy Library, Vallejo

Hear powerful personal stories and insights on healing, recovery, and resilience.

Movie Night: Inside Out 2 + Discussion

May 29 | 5 PM – 7:30 PM

601 Texas Street, Fairfield

Enjoy a screening of Inside Out 2, followed by a short, thoughtful discussion on emotions and mental wellness.

===*===*===

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Solano County

EDUCATION * SUPPORT * OUTREACH * ADVOCACY

www.NAMISolaoCounty.org

NAMI Solano County is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization

Organized in 1985, NAMI SOlano County is a grassroots non-profit organization dedicated to assisting those living with mental illness and their families.

NAMI Solano County is an affiliate of NAMI National and NAMI California. WIth renowned programs, classes, dedicated volunteers, workshops and conferences, publications and online resources, we seek to improve the lives of those affected by mental illness.

Funding Provided by Solano County Board of Supervisors, Health and Social Services and also funded by the Mental Health Services Act.

P.O. Box 3334, Fairfield, CA 94533

(707) 438-9510

info@NAMISolanoCounty.org

Our Mission -

- Education: Our programs provide the tools, awareness, and coping skills needed to overcome the challenges faced by people and families affected by mental illness.

- Support: Our groups are facilitated by trained family members and indivduals who have firsthand experience coping with mental illness.

- Outreach: We strive to end discrimination and stigma for all those persons affected by mental illness through broader education and collaboration with the whole community.

- Advocacy: We advocte for the rights of those living with mental illness and their families on the local, state and national levels, striving to raise awareness of mental health issues and improve access to quality care.

Learn more about NAMI and mental illness at www.nami.org/Learn-More

Help us stomp out stigma! Volunteer with us!

As a volunteer organization, it is our community (like you!) that conducts all our local activities, classes, fundraising, advocacy, service projects and support.

- Participate in our annual Holiday Gift Bag project which has delivered more than 10000 bags filled with gifts and hygiene items for those living mental illness.

- Lend your voice to improve officer and consumer safety. Respected by local law enforcement, NAMI is welcome at Law Enforcement Crisis Intervention Trainings.

- Advocate for better treatment and services for those with mental illness by writing letters and meeting with legislators and community leaders.

- Be visible at community events. Speak out to educate and reduce stigma.

Learn more about volunteer opportunities and sign up on our website - www.NAMISolanoCounty.org

Demonstrate your ongoing support of Mental Health in Solano County.

Become a member. Membership benefits include:

- "Members Only" section of our website

- Membership with NAMI California & NAMI National

- Periodic newsletter

- Friends and a support network of peers

Membership is annual, $40 for individuals, $60 for household, $5 for those in need.

Make checks payable to NAMI Solano County.

Our Resource Line: (707) 422-7792

The Resource Line offers non-judgemental support, Compassionate listening, and information and/or referrals on multitude of mental health issues and resources, including:

- Understanding mental illness and its effect on individuals, families, and friends.

- Understanding the mental health laws and systems, how to obtain mental health services, and how to overcome obstacles to getting help with mental health problems.

- NAMI education classes and programs.

- Support groups for individuals and their families, offered by NAMI and other organizations.

- Referrals to services available from agencies within Solano County.

- Referrals to commonly requested community resources, including: legal services, financial assistance, housing, job training and placement, and social support and activities.

Resource Line volunteers have years of lived experience and personal knowledge of the problems individuals and families are facing.

Our Resource Line is not answered immediately. Please leave your name, phone number, and a brief message. Someone WILL return your call!

Monthly General Meetings

Featuring Educational & Supportive Speakers

All are Welcome!

Last Monday of each month at 6:30pm

(No Meeting in May or December)

Check our website for the monthly meeting topic and other details.

www.NAMISolanoCounty.org

Education Classes, Support Groups, Speakers, and Outreach

Please email or call for details, dates and registration

info@namisolanocounty // (707) 438-9510

Education & Groups are Nationally Acclaimed, and Always Free of Charge, Taught by trained facilitators who have lived experience with mental illness.

- Family-to-Family: A 9-session educational class for family members of those living with mental illness.

- Basics: A 6-session class for parents/caregivers of children and teens with mental health conditions. (on-line)

- Peer-to-Peer: An 8-session course for adults living with mental health challanges.

- In Our Own Voice: A presentation by trained speakers who share their stories of living with mental health challenges and achieving recovery.

- Mental Health 101: A multi-media, culturally diverse informative presentation showcasing mental health signs and symptoms.

- Ending the Silence: A 50-minute presentation designed foe teens to educate about the warning signs of mental health conditions and how to help.

- NAMI on Campus (High School & College): These student-;ed clubs raise mental health awareness and reduce stigma on campusthrough peer-led activities and education.

- Connection Support Group: A support group for adults living with mental health challenges.

- Family Support Group: A Support Group for family members, friends and advocates of people living with mental illness.

===*===*===

Bay Area Rescue Mission

[bayarearescue.org]

Fighting homelessness. Changing Lives.

===*===*===

California Commission of the Status of Women

[women.ca.gov] // (916) 651-5405

===*===*===

A Shared Blessing on 1610a Springs rd accepts donations. They distribute food and clothing to the homeless and needy in Vallejo.

[facebook.com/groups/7822651004441589]

===*===*===

4th Second's Youth Empowerment Program [4thsecond.org/about-us] - youth center on Tuolumne st. [instagram.com/4thsecondyep]

===*===*===

* (https://suscolcouncil.org/) [https://archive.is/AN5QV]

Sunday, June 2, 2024

Food Pantry

2024 Resource List

We need a list of resources for homeless people. from food banks, to churches who have hot meals, clothing, shelters and everything we can think of. If you know of a resource please list it below. If you see the resource you were going to add in the list already please just like it instead of adding it again.

Boys and Girls Empowerment Group does a food bank twice a week with Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Thursdays and Saturdays 10am-12pm at 1638 Fairgrounds Dr, free groceries and special boxes for unhoused (stuff they can actually eat, they can’t cook) no ID or paperwork involved other than signing the sign in sheet. And they do mobile showers every other week on Wednesdays at 11

Friendship Missionary Baptist Church - 1905 Florida Street - Pantry Hours: 4th Saturday

9:30am - 12:30pm Except November and December when the distribution is the 3rd Saturday of the month - Photo ID Required

Salvation Army Tue & Thur must bring an id or something with an address

Food is Free do food distribution at Fairgrounds and also supports the local free food stands at folks’ homes.

https://foodisfreesolano.org

Angels with heart we cook meals and take them out to the camps www.angelswithheart.org

Solono county DPH offers free NarCan.

If you know someone at risk it's worth going to one of their free classes

https://www.foodbankccs.org/map-city/vallejo/

https://thisis.church/care/

Catholic Charities of Yolo-Solano - 125 Corporate Place Vallejo, CA - 94590 Phone: (707) 644-8909 - Pantry Hours: Monday - Thursday 9:00am -4:30pm Appointments for food pick up is available.

Hope Cafe - 929 Amador Street - Free Hot Meal / Community Soup Kitchen- Wednesdays 5:00pm - 7:00pm.

Vallejo Nazarene Church - 929 Amador Street - Bag of Groceries Hours: Monday 6:30pm Wednesday 1:00pm Arrive 90 min early. First come, first served.

Food Bank Hours

Monday

5:30 p.m. (Sign ups start at 4:30)

Wednesday

1:00 p.m. Signups start at 12:00 p.m.

Senior Day 2nd Wednesday of each month. Age 62 and older only

One box per month per household. Picture ID required and proof of residency in Vallejo (e.g. utility bill, bank statement)

Thursday Night Meal

Thursday

6:30 pm

Bible Study 7:15pm

Good Samaritan Baptist Church - 407 Capitol Street - Pantry Hours: Monday and Thursday 10:00am - 12:00pm / 3rd Saturday of every month 9:00am - 11:30am

They also have Shower Days every Tuesday Wednesday and Thursday from 8am-4pm. Come scrub up!

In addition to free meals, we are able to offer an Emergency Pantry to those in need of pantry staples and food items. There is no specific set schedule, so please reach out to Pastor Mike for more information. He can be reached at (707) 644-4087 or thesparrowproject@fbcvallejo.com

Faith Food Fridays - 826 Solano Ave, Vallejo - There are NO qualifications or requirements to receive a box of fresh and non-perishable food items. - Sunday (Drive Through Only) 11am-1pm / Tuesdays 11am-2pm (please arrive no later than 1:45p) / Fridays 11am-5pm (please arrive no later than 4:45p)

Bay Area Rescue Mission

200 MacDonald Avenue

Richmond Ca

Shelter

Contact 510 415 4555

- 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]

Sonoma Overnight Support [sonomaovernightsupport.org]. The mission of Sonoma Overnight Support is to feed the hungry in Sonoma and Sonoma Valley.

Resources for You and Your Family [partnershiphp.org]

Looking for local resources and not sure where to start? The Partnership HealthPlan of California website can help. We have resources for each of the 24 counties we serve. This is just one way we help our members be safe and healthy.

To see the Community Resources page, visit our website at PartnershipHP.org or scan the QR code below with your smartphone camera. Select your county to see all the resources near you. Resources may be different by county, and are usually at no cost to our members.

Here are some of the resources you can find:

EMERGENCY RESPONSE

This page has resources for counties impacted by emergencies like wildfires or earthquakes.

Here you will find:

• Where you can get help during an emergency

• Where animals can go during an emergency

• How to replace lost documents

CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

Here you will find:

• Childcare resources

• Family resource centers

• Foster and kinship support services

• Home visiting programs

• Child development services

CLOTHING AND PERSONAL CARE

Here you will find:

• Places that offer clothes, blankets, and sleeping bags

• Mobile showers and laundry services

CRISIS

Here you will find:

• Mental health services

• Domestic violence and abuse services

• Crisis hotline phone numbers

FOOD

Here you will find:

• CalFresh Program

• WIC (Women, Infants and

Children) resources

• Senior meals

• Farmers markets

• Food banks and pantries

HOUSING

Here you will find:

• Shelter(s)

• Temporary housing

LGBTQ+

Here you will find:

• Hotline phone numbers

• Legal resources

• Senior resources

• Teen resources

• Transgender resources

PERINATAL

Here you will find:

• Pregnancy support services

• Home visiting programs

• Maternal mental health resources

• Postpartum services

• Breastfeeding support services

TRANSPORTATION

Here you will find:

• Partnership’s Transportation Benefit

o Non-Medical Transportation

(NMT)

o Non-Emergent Medical

Transportation (NEMT)

Monday, April 15, 2024

Wake Up & Rise Up! April 16th, 2024

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

[sustainablesolano.org/pollinator-pathway-garden-puts-spotlight-on-native-plants-pollinators-on-mare-island]

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

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]

===*===*===

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 -

- Global Center for Success [globalcenterforsuccess.com]
- Vallejo Together [vallejotogether.org]

Other community resources -

- The Ecological Center [ecologycenter.org]

- Animal Rescue! [northbaymorningshow.blogspot.com/2023/04/animal-rescue.html]

Poetry
- Vallejo Poetry Society [vallejopoetrysociety.org] [facebook.com/Vallejopoetrysociety]

- 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]

---

* "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

[facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555431471956]

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.

Ticket page [allevents.in/vallejo/mare-island-tree-tour/10000837790492917]

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

Event page [facebook.com/events/s/soiree-in-paris-to-celebrate-s/389441500437252]

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]

Donate at [eventbrite.com/e/3rd-annual-benicia-diversity-festival-tickets-855013397087]

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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

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.