CHRIS RICO

from Solano Economic Update: May 2023

WELCOME OUR NEW MEMBER

President & CEO

Dear Members, Partners, and Friends of the EDC,

A few weeks back I joined Don Burrus, Vacaville’s Director of Economic Services and his team at the American BioManufacturing Summit in Burlingame. Don is always sure to invite me to regional Bio events, and I’m sure to lend my support whenever my schedule permits. Cluster development is crucial to building a thriving economy and Vacaville has been making all the right moves to further grow this burgeoning ecosystem. I had the good fortune to sit in on a panel that focused on how workforce development can drive business attraction. Jim DeKloe shared how the development of a bio-manufacturing curriculum and bachelor’s program at the Solano Community College has been the catalyst for Vacaville’s success. As we look to create more advanced manufacturing in Solano County, we hope to replicate this strategy. Stay tuned.

We had the pleasure of celebrating Congressman Mike Thompson’s return to North Solano County. As you may know, redistricting brought Rio Vista, Vacaville, and Dixon back into Congressman Thompson’s district, as had been the case previously. Travis Credit Union was gracious enough to host. Thank you to Janae Davis, Damian Alarco-Young, and our esteemed Board Treasurer, Kevin Miller, for such a lovely luncheon. The event was well attended by a cross-section of constituents from farmers, to scientists, to local electeds. Congressman Thompson spoke at great length about the benefits of the American Rescue Plan, The Inflation Reduction Act, and the Infrastructure bill. He also shared his passion for clean, renewable energy and sensible gun control legislation.

Lastly, thank you to all of you who supported Aids Lifecycle, the 545 mile bike ride from SF to LA I’ll be participating in this June. I’m $3K away from my personal goal of raising $10,000. If you have the ability to support me and this worthy cause, thank you in advance. You can donate here.