EXPLORING THE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

from Solano Economic Update: February 2023

Solano EDC held their Speaker Series webinar, presented by Kaiser Permanente on January 31st. We had a great discussion on policy and advocacy exploring the legislative agenda for economic development.

Carquinez Quad Squad held their first annual Tomato Jam Roller Derby Showcase on January 21st at the Solano County Fairgrounds. Solano EDC was there to participate and promote two important countywide programs. In partnership with the Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN) and Solano Transportation Authority (STA), we networked with roller derby skaters from around the region and distributed information about free energy tool kits to help renters and homeowners reduce energy use and save money. We also shared details about commuter resources with programs like “Commute Solano” that reward program participants for taking alternative modes of transportation to and from work, and “Bucks for Bikes” that offer up to $300 in reimbursements to those who live, work, or attend college in Solano County and purchase a bicycle for their work commute.

A special thank you to the Carquinez Quad Squad for hosting such a wonderful event!

A New Beginning at Kaiser Permanente Vacaville Medical Center

Kaiser Permanente Vacaville Medical Center is pleased to announce the opening of our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where we can care for newborn babies who need and little more care and attention, closer to home. The 6-bed unit will increase access to highly specialized care for newborns in a comforting environment for new parents as they bond with their new babies.

“We are thrilled to be able to care for these babies here in Vacaville, closer to their parents, by our amazing team so they can get the best start in life,” said Cherie Stagg, Chief Nurse Executive at Kaiser Permanente Vacaville Medical Center. “As a labor and delivery nurse, I have a special place in my heart for new babies, and to being able to offer this level of care means a lot to me, and to our entire team.

The Family Birth Center at Kaiser Permanente Vacaville Medical Center opened nearly 10 years ago and delivers more than 1,300 babies each year – the only hospital in Vacaville with a birthing unit.

The NICU team is comprised of doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists, and support staff who specialize in caring for newborns who have special medical needs. They all work together to provide high-quality care to newborns around the clock, seven days a week.

The unit features specialized beds called incubators that keep the babies warm and protect from infection. Respirators, nasal tubes, and oxygen hoods help them breathe while feeding tubes or glucose drips may help them get enough nutrients. Monitors track vital signs and alert the staff to the baby’s needs.

Each year, it’s estimated that 10-15% of babies born will need NICU care. “We are so glad to be able to provide this service,” said Stagg. “And I am so proud of everyone who gives their all each and every day, especially during these past few years of the pandemic.”

2022 Adopt a Family

This holiday season, the Benicia Refinery adopted 14 families, bringing joy to 35 children and their Parents/Guardians. Volunteers from the refinery worked hundreds of hours to support the Benicia Community Action Council, Vacaville Opportunity House, and Bay Area Crisis Nursery over the holiday.

Valero Benicia Supports 2022 Wreaths Across America Mare Island Event

Veterans were honored by dozens at this annual event held at the Mare Island Naval Cemetery. Every grave and tombstone at the cemetery had a wreath placed on it for the holiday season.

Each year, Valero contributes to the event to ensure sure that there are enough wreaths to go around. This year, there were 1,050 wreaths for the event.