Vallejo Weekly | Vol 12 | Issue 19

VALLEJO WEEKLY

INTERIM CITY MANAGER'S MESSAGE

HELLO, VALLEJO,

While we all continue to work hard every day on building a better Vallejo, I’d like to take a moment to recognize and celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Teacher Appreciation Week and Happy Mother’s Day to all who keep our Community going with their love and dedication to our families and future generations. I hope you get out and enjoy the beautiful sunny weekend with your friends and families.

In the meantime, I am helping to continue with operations in critical areas such as the upcoming 2024-2025 Fiscal Year Budget. I am listening to the Community, Council, and Department Heads/ Staff in what we need to maintain and areas where we can cut to help with upcoming Budget discussions. Please weigh in on these public discussions at our Budget Workshop coming up on May 30 in the Council Chambers at 6 pm.  The City’s Housing Department is also hosting a Landlord Symposium on June 6th (see the flyer in the Weekly and on our Social Media) to encourage more landlords to rent to Section 8 housing applicants.  Come join the Landlord Symposium to learn how to help improve housing opportunities in Vallejo.

With the nice, warm weather, the City of Vallejo is also moving forward with many key construction projects!  We will keep you updated on these projects-please remember there will be a Caltrans Eastbound SR-37 full weekend closure starting Friday night and another EB SR-37 full weekend closure 5/17 weekend.

Respectfully,

Beverli Marshall Interim City Manager

State of California • Department of Transportation

Traffic Advisory

Date: May 9, 2024

District: District 4- Oakland

Contact: Vince Jacala/Hector Chinchilla

Phone: 510-385-7069/510-421-8040

Email: Vince.Jacala@dot.ca.gov Hector.Chinchilla@dot.ca.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

State Route-37 Solano Pavement Repair Project:

55 hr. Full Eastbound Highway Closure on EB State Route-37 between Sears Point (SR-121, Sonoma) and Mare Island (SR-37/SR-29, Vallejo)

EASTBOUND SR-37 work starts

Friday, May 10 from 10:00 PM to Monday May 13, 5:00 AM

Final Scheduled 55hr Eastbound SR-37 Weekend Closure for Friday, May 17 10:00 PM to Monday, May 20 5:00 A.M All work is weather dependent.

SOLANO,

NAPA & SONOMA COUNTIES –

Caltrans will begin work on Eastbound State Route 37 (SR-37). EB SR-37 will be closed, and motorist detoured beginning at the SR37/SR-121interchange near Sears point (Sonoma County). The Eastbound closure will be 55 hours, starting Friday, May 10 at 10:00 PM to Monday May 13 by 5:00 AM.

During the 55-hour weekend full highway closures, Caltrans will perform major pavement repair work on EASTBOUND SR-37 between Solano and Sonoma counties . One traffic direction on SR-37 will be worked on at a time. Detours on eastbound SR-37 will be in effect. Westbound SR-37 will remain open at all times.

Please drive with caution. Slow for the Cone Zone and Be Work Zone Alert. Caltrans thanks motorists for their patience while we work to maintain our state's highways, bridges, and tunnels. Detours will be in effect. All work is weather dependent.

Vallejo Housing Authority landlord symposium

THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2024 - 3:00 PM TO 5:00 PM

JOHN F. KENNEDY LIBRARY - JOSEPH ROOM

505 SANTA CLARA STREET, VALLEJO, CA

JOIN US AND LEARN ABOUT:

Landlord incentives

Expedited inspection processes of new units.

Dedicated email for landlord concerns.

Loss Mitigation Fund

Timely monthly payments

Competitive contract rents

VPD WELCOMES NEW OFFICERS

Vallejo, please warmly welcome the newest members of our police department, Officers Clinton Hill (badge #780), Derrick Hughes (badge #781), and Choua Xiong (badge #782).

Officer Hill was born in Tacoma, Washington, and raised in San Francisco, California. He graduated from San Francisco State University with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy in 2016. Vallejo PD sponsored Officer Hill as he entered the police academy at Contra Costa County Office Of The Sheriff Law Enforcement Training Center. Hill completed his training and graduated from the police academy on May 3, 2024. Officer Hill enjoys working out and camping. He decided to join Vallejo PD because he wanted to help protect and serve our community. Officer Hill knows our community's challenges well and wants to help make a difference.

Officer Hughes was born in Oakland, California, and raised in American Canyon, California. He attends Diablo Valley College and is a few credits away from receiving his associate degree in criminal justice. Officer Hughes worked as a Vallejo PD Police Assistant from July 2022 until October 2023. Vallejo PD sponsored Officer Hughes as he entered the police academy at

Contra Costa County Office Of The Sheriff Law Enforcement Training Center. Hughes completed his training and graduated from the police academy on May 3, 2024. Officer Hughes enjoys working out, training in mixed martial arts, and watching movies. He decided to join Vallejo PD because it is a great department; the officers are very helpful and knowledgeable, and he considers the Vallejo community his home.

Officer Xiong was born in Fresno, California, and raised in Portland, Oregon. He received a certificate of achievement in General Business from the City College of San Francisco in 2023. Vallejo PD sponsored Officer Xiong as he entered the police academy at Contra Costa County Office Of The Sheriff Law Enforcement Training Center. Xiong completed his training and graduated from the police academy on May 3, 2024. Officer Xiong enjoys working out, hiking, camping, playing video games, and spending quality time with his friends and family. He decided to join Vallejo PD to help serve and protect our community.

THE CITY OF VALLEJO TAKE YOUR CHILD TO WORK DAY EVENT

On Thursday, April 25, 2024, the City of Vallejo welcomed a host of honorary employees for the day during their annual Take Your Child to Work Day event. Take Your Child to Work Day is a nationally celebrated day that gives children in the United States a glimpse into the working world. Organizations and businesses from across the U.S. participate in several hosted activities aimed at career exploration for youth. The tradition began in 1992 As Take Your Daughters to Work Day and was created by the Ms. Foundation for Women.

In 2003, the program was expanded to include boys; however, many employers and participants have already included both boys and girls in their activities. The event is historically celebrated on the fourth Thursday in April every year. The City of Vallejo recognizes the importance of career exploration early on in life and ways to support staff appreciation and engagement opportunities.

City of Vallejo staff and their school-aged children were not just observers but active participants in the day's activities. They had the opportunity to learn about various career paths within the organization, starting at City Hall and then visiting the City of Vallejo Corp Yard, Police Station, and Fire

Station #27. The highlight of the day was the chance to job shadow their parents, gaining a first-hand understanding of their roles and responsibilities.

At the Corp Yard, participants learned about several different divisions and departments that are located there. The Public Works fleet maintenance shop, where staff work on City vehicles such as police cars, utility trucks, and fire engines, displayed the different vehicles they work on and discussed how their vital work affects all different departments. Staff members from the streets division and traffic division of Public Works showed participants a few vehicles they use, such as a bucket lift truck and backhoe. The Water Distribution team displayed several tools they use on the job, allowing participants to experience the sights and sounds first-hand.

The Vallejo Police Department (VPD) hosted the group for a tour of the department, followed by a S.W.A.T. (Special Weapons And Tactics) team presentation that included a fun drone demo. Kids were able to ask questions, explore the S.W.A.T. vehicle and try on different police gear. Participants also learned how VPD utilizes drones to help keep our community safe.

Lastly, the group toured Fire Station #27, where they learned more about the Vallejo Fire Department. Not only were youth exposed to the many different careers within the City of Vallejo, but they were also able to create special memories as a family and learn exactly how their parents contribute to helping make our Vallejo community thrive.

Vallejo Juneteenth application deadline extended to May 31

Vallejo, CA | Organizers of Vallejo’s 34th Annual Juneteenth Festival and Parade are giving vendors, merchants, and exhibitors more time to send in their complete application packet to participate in the event. The deadline is extended to May 31, 2024. Juneteenth will be held on Saturday, June 15 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Barbara Kondylis Waterfront Green, 301 Mare Island Way in Vallejo. A parade will precede the festival at 9 am from Sonoma Boulevard and Broadway culminating at Georgia Street. Applications are due June 2 and there’s no entry fee.

Don Jordan, president of the African American Family Reunion Committee that hosts the event, said many participants are small businesses and nonprofit organizations that are still trying to get back to pre-COVID operations. “They know Juneteenth elevates their exposure to well over a thousand customers that they can’t reach on any given day at their brick and mortar or parked on a street corner,” said Jordan. “We also lowered our booth fees this year so they’re more affordable than other Juneteenth festivals in the area.”

The organization typically attracts as many as 75-100 exhibitors. The main focus of Juneteenth is to raise historic and cultural awareness about the federal holiday that commemorates the

emancipation of enslaved people in Texas in 1863 although the news didn’t reach slaves in Galveston until 1865. The celebration recognizes the accomplishments and contributions of African Americans in the United States. Juneteenth events are held across the nation and in other countries, typically on the third Saturday in June.

As the longest running Juneteenth celebration in Solano County, Vallejo’s festival is a community centric partnership with nonprofit and for-profit organizations and businesses, entrepreneurs, and others. The mission driven focus is about accessible healthcare and wellness services and programs, financial planning, homeownership, educational and employment opportunities, and community stewardship. Corporate, business and community sponsors are also being sought to support this event. Visitors can enjoy food, merchandise vendors and interactive exhibits. Live entertainment will feature popular bands and showcase homegrown talent performing a great mix of music that will appeal across generations, including jazz, old school, gospel, R&B, choreographed dance, demonstrations, and more. The celebration will also include presentations to winning entries in a K-12 student art contest on the Juneteenth theme, “History of Us: What Does Freedom Mean to Me.” Organizers plan to feature a mural painting activity for children, youth, and young people.

The application and more details on how to apply are available online at vallejojuneteenth.com.

Let’s Get Social!

JOIN US FOR THE SPRING SOCIAL IN DOWNTOWN VALLEJO!

FRIDAY, MAY 24 | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Sip, Shop, and Socialize with your favorite people while discovering your new favorite businesses. Stroll along our downtown pour stations and enjoy quality tastings locally sourced from Hopulent and

Mare Island Brewing Co.

Browse through curated goodies, from flower power prints by @allisonandres to funky jewelry from @loreerosequartz, there’s something for everyone! Let’s mingle, laugh, and make memories together!

Don’t miss out on the fun, link to purchase tickets HERE – see you there!

Vallejo Youth Project Members Meet with Vallejo Mayor, Robert Mcconnell

Five dynamic youth leaders from Vallejo Project engaged in a productive dialogue with Mayor McConnell today, delving into pressing issues affecting our community. Among them stood Clara, a Vallejo High School alumna and ambitious young professional armed with certifications in CMA and phlebotomy. Despite her young age of 19, Clara articulated her concerns about safety in Vallejo, drawing attention to incidents like home invasions and assaults that have marred our city. Mayor McConnell reassured her that while crime rates have seen a decline, he remains proactive in addressing these concerns through city resources and the collaboration of a citizens' group, supplementing the efforts of law enforcement agencies.

Also present was Orabosa Olutu, a local digital artist renowned for his distinctive

landscape interpretations. He raised pertinent environmental concerns, particularly regarding the quality of our water and air. Mayor McConnell swiftly connected him with Shelle Loughmiller, the city's dedicated volunteer coordinator, who facilitates environmental cleanup initiatives for non-profits and interested individuals.

Donovan Bearrunner, a committed Native American youth volunteer, expressed dismay over the dwindling cultural activities and public ceremonies honoring Native American heritage in Vallejo. Lastly, Javon, a 20-year-old college student contemplating a maritime university program out of state, voiced apprehensions regarding the educational landscape in Vallejo. He shed light on safety issues, teacher caliber, and the scarcity of educational opportunities.

This meeting underscored Vallejo Project's youth's proactive involvement in tackling community challenges. Mayor McConnell reiterated his unwavering commitment to collaborative efforts aimed at devising positive solutions for Vallejo's future.

Suite Treatments: a Vallejo icon

The morning sun peeked through the windows of Suite Treatments, casting a warm glow over the space as Jacque Barsotti bustled around, preparing for another day of creativity and design. The walls are a testament to her portfolio from sepia photos of Paris to a recreation of the living room from the Netflix show, Stranger Things. It is clear she has brought to life countless events with her keen eye and artistic touch.

As Jacque sipped her coffee, her mind drifted back to the days when she was fully immersed in organizing the infamous Bonnaroo Music Festival, and later when she set up shop at the Coal Sheds on Mare Island. The journey has been filled with challenges and triumphs, but through it all, Jacque's passion for transforming spaces into works of art has never wavered.

Suite Treatments began in 1999, renting plants to rock stars for their dressing rooms. After a brief residency in Vallejo, Jacque moved back to Oakland and expanded her business into what it is

today - a highly successful enterprise. Since 2008, she has traveled across the country designing event spaces for high-profile clients, musicians, cities, corporations, and music festivals.

As the pandemic drug on, the decision was made to return to Vallejo. In 2020, Jacque took part in the Leadership Program.

"It truly changed my life," she says. "After participating in the program, I've been encouraging my employees and friends to do the same." Jacque remains an active member of the Leadership Program as a speaker and mentor.

Jacque doubled down on Vallejo when she purchased the 10k+ square foot building on Sonoma Blvd., used mostly as a showroom and office. She proudly shows me around the space pointing out legendary furniture once used by Prince (yes it was purple).

A smile spreads across Jacque's face as she talks about Vallejo's 10th Annual Waterfront Weekend. She is excited to bring something new and exciting to the community that has embraced her. Drawing from her previous work with renowned artists like Prince, Mumford and Sons, and Beyonce, Jacque has grand ideas for this beloved event. The Waterfront Weekend is surely in capable hands with her at the helm.

As the new president of Well Dunn, a nonprofit whose mission is to provide inclusive and equitable experiences to socioeconomically diverse students who exhibit talent and passion that helps them realize their aspirations to work in the music and entertainment industry. Jacque is the perfect choice to spirit the next generation of creative talent.

For more information about Suite Treatments visit their website at suitetreatments.com

Follow them on social media @suitetreatments

This article was brought to you by the Vallejo Economic Vitality Commission and the #GrowVallejo initiative.

To learn more about the Economic Vitality Commission, visit www.MyVallejo.com/EVC

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CALL FOR ARTISTS DEADLINE APPROACHES:

SOLTRANS SEEKS CREATIVE MINDS FOR ZEROEMISSION BUS ART PROJECT

Solano County, CA – In March 2024, Solano County Transit (SolTrans) initiated a “Call for Artists” for original artwork that celebrates the agency’s shift to a zero-emission bus (ZEB) fleet. The deadline to submit for all submissions is just over a week away, Monday, May 13, 2024.

SolTrans invited artists residing in Solano County to showcase their talents in support of this important initiative. The artwork will adorn a SolTrans' all-electric local bus, serving as a visual representation of their commitment to environmentally friendly transportation solutions.

The suggested theme for the artwork revolves around celebrating sustainable green transportation options in Solano County while highlighting connections to the greater Bay Area. Artists are encouraged to reflect on SolTrans’ mission as they create designs that resonate with passengers and passersby alike.

Up to three finalists will be selected to complete preliminary designs. From the finalists, one artist will provide digital artwork to wrap one of SolTrans’ local all-electric buses.

“We are thrilled to provide another platform for local artists to showcase their talent while contributing to our community’s efforts towards sustainability,” said Mandi Renshaw, SolTrans’ Planning and Marketing Manager.

This is SolTrans’ third “Call for Artists” in the last 10 years. Previously, SolTrans worked with the local art communities to wrap SolTrans’ very first all-electric bus in 2015, to decorate the newly renovated Operations & Maintenance Facility on Broadway St. in Vallejo in 2016, and to add six art installments at the Vallejo Transit Center in 2021.

Information about the “Call for Artists” can be found at SolTrans.org (https://soltrans.org/ news/news/press-release-call-for-local-artist).

SolTrans encourages local artists to not miss this opportunity to leave your mark on Solano County’s zero-emission future!

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.

THE CITY OF VALLEJO BROADBAND SERVICE VALLEJONET IS NOW VIP FIBER

The City of Vallejo is excited to announce that its municipal broadband service, formerly "VallejoNet," has been rebranded as "VIP Fiber."

The City of Vallejo is excited to announce that its municipal broadband service, formerly "VallejoNet," has been rebranded as "VIP Fiber."

Local businesses currently using VIP include Brooks & Co. Real Estate, Kindred Motorworks, Aardvarks Adventureland, Better Chew Kitchen, Suite Treatments Inc., and many more! You, too, can be a part of VIP.

This rebranding initiative is part of the City's ongoing efforts to position Vallejo as a hub for technological innovation and to reflect its commitment to providing high-quality, reliable internet service to its residents and businesses.

This rebranding initiative is part of the City's ongoing efforts to position Vallejo as a hub for technological innovation and to reflect its commitment to providing high-quality, reliable internet service to its residents and businesses.

Community-owned ISPs are driven by the needs and interests of the local residents rather than profit-driven motives. The profits generated stay within the community, promoting local growth, job creation, and economic development. VIP is committed to upholding net neutrality principles, ensuring everyone enjoys a level playing field on the internet.

Community-owned ISPs are driven by the needs and interests of the local residents rather than profit-driven motives. The profits generated stay within the community, promoting local growth, job creation, and economic development. VIP is committed to upholding net neutrality principles, ensuring everyone enjoys a level playing field on the internet.

Local businesses currently using VIP include Brooks & Co. Real Estate, Kindred Motorworks, Aardvarks Adventureland, Better Chew Kitchen, Suite Treatments Inc., and many more! You, too, can be a part of VIP.

Learn more about your local ISP and request a quote today to experience the premium internet service offered by VIP Fiber and join Vallejo in its mission to lead technological advancements in the region while enjoying fast and affordable internet!

Learn more about your local ISP and request a quote today to experience the premium internet service offered by VIP Fiber and join Vallejo in its mission to lead technological advancements in the region while enjoying fast and affordable internet!

Stay updated with the latest news, updates, events, and more on our social media accounts on Instagram and Facebook!

Stay updated with the latest news, updates, events, and more on our social media accounts on Instagram and Facebook!

Check your availability today at www.vipfiber.com

Check your availability today at www.vipfiber.com

Brooklyn Luke

Pets of the week

BROOKLYN

Domestic Shorthair, female, young

Say hello to Brooklyn, the charismatic kitten with a heart of gold and a passion for playtime! This 9-month-old kitty is a social butterfly who thrives in the company of other cats and loves a game of hide and seek. With her sleek ebony coat and sparkling eyes, Brooklyn is as pretty as they come. But it's her playful personality that truly steals the show. Whether she's pouncing on feather toys or darting in and out of her favorite hiding spots, Brooklyn knows how to keep herself entertained and will happily invite other cats to join in on the fun. Brooklyn is also a cuddle connoisseur who enjoys snuggling up with feline friends and human companions alike. With her gentle purrs and soft nuzzles, she'll melt your heart in an instant. To set up a meet and greet with Brooklyn, go to our Adoption Page at HSNB.org and fill out a Cat Adoption Interest Application.

LUKE

Belgian Tervuren/Shepherd, male, young

Luke is a stunning 1-year-old Shepherd mix looking for a loving, active family. True to his breed, Luke is a bright and self-assured dog who is likely to be deeply loyal to his forever family. Luke is very sweet and eager to please! He enjoys going for walks and has excellent leash manners. He is playful and gets along well with other dogs. Because he's a young Shepherd mix, Luke thrives when he's given plenty of exercise and enrichment. Luke would make an excellent adventure buddy for someone interested in hiking and/or road trips. He's an intelligent boy who would love a family that will devote plenty of time to positive-reinforcement training. If you think Luke might be your next best friend, head to our Adoption Page at HSNB.org and fill out a Dog Adoption Interest Application!

Mare Island historic park foundation's annual garage sale

WHEN: May 17 and 18th - 9 AM to 3 PM

WHERE: 1100 Railroad Ave. Vallejo

TICKETS:

• members – $10

• advanced tickets $15

• at the door $20

SPEAKERS SERIES: THE HISTORY OF MOFFETT FIELD

BUY TICKETS HERE:

mihpf.org/store/speakers-series-moffett-field

ALL PROCEEDS BENEFIT THE FOUNDATION

VIRTUAL BINGO

Get ready to shout "BINGO!" as we guide you through multiple rounds of the classic game held over Zoom. We have great prizes to win and the evening will be tons of fun for everyone! Your bingo cards and the Zoom link will be emailed to you once you purchase your bingo cards.

$10 per card

THURSDAY, 5/16/24, 6 PM - 7:30 PM

ZOOM ROOM OPENS AT 5:45 PM

Buy your bingo cards at https://tinyurl.com/April2024Bingo or scan the QR Code A fundraiser for...