Solano Life 2025: Aug. 31, 2025

Fairfield looks to future as downtown takes shape

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

The town shares a long history with the Native American tribes.

A brief history of the area can be found on the city of Fairfield website. Some highlights include in 1842, Chief Solano sold his grant to Vallejo for $1,000 (the same grant was sold eight years later to A.A. Ritchie and Captain Waterman for $50,000).

A few years later, in 1850, Chief Solano and the remaining Suisun tribe moved to the Napa area.

Then in 1856, Captain Robert H. Waterman laid out the town site of Fairfield, which he named after his hometown in Connecticut. Waterman had long been a sailor who traveled the world and decided to settle in Suisun Valley with his wife, Cordelia (for whom the Cordelia area of Fairfield is named).

Fairfield has grown over the years.

During World War II the United States government built, Travis Air

Force Base.

The city is currently working on revitalizing the downtown area with new stop signs, adding bike lanes and improving the infrastructures with sewer and water upgrades. The city intends to add broadband wiring as it improves sewer and water lines.

Fairfield recently changed several streets downtown to one-way and added stop signs to help with pedestrian traffic.

As part of the Heart of Fairfield plan, which promotes bringing new businesses to the city’s core, these changes will help with additional people coming to Fairfield.

Fairfield plans to turn West Texas Street into a walkable, bicycle-friendly, mixed-use community.

The city approved a $400,000 small business grant to help those hit by the closures from the state’s stayat-home order.

City officials want to see the downtown area revitalized into a place for families to take a walk in the evening

City Hall: 1000 Webster St , Fairfield Reach at 707-428-7400

Website: www fairfield ca gov City Manager: David Gassaway Reach at 707-428-7401

Mayor: Catherine Moy Elected 2022 Term expires in 2026 Reach at 707-639-0500 or cmoy@fairfield ca gov

Vice Mayor: Pam Bertani Elected in 2011 Term expires in 2028 Reach at 707-628-6974 or pbertani@fairfield ca gov

Councilman: Manveer Sandhu Elected 2024 Term expires in 2028 Reach at 707-716-5440 or msandhu@fairfield ca gov

Councilwoman: K Patrice Williams, J D Elected in 2022 Term expires in 2026 Reach at 707-372-3094 or kpwilliams@fairfield ca gov

Councilman: Doug Carr Elected 2022 Term expires in 2026 Reach at 707- 914-5375 or dcarr@fairfield ca gov

Councilman: Scott Tonnesen Elected in 2020 Term expires in 2028 Reach at 707-246-5670 or stonnesen@fairfield ca gov

Councilwoman: Doriss Panduro Elected in 2020 Term expires in 2026 Reach at 707-920-3169 or dpanduro@fairfield ca gov

Suisun City continues growth with waterfront projects

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Suisun City is a small community nestled among the Delta marshes.

It has seen its share of changes over the years but continues to grow and evolve.

Most recently, the 57,000-squarefoot Holiday Inn Express hotel was completed. It has four stories and holds 83 rooms for visitors and a view of the downtown and waterfront.

It includes two meeting rooms, an indoor pool, a catering kitchen and a fitness center.

The town, with a population of nearly 30,000 people, is also getting the fiscal and shopping benefits of the Walmart that opened in 2015 off Highway 12.

Suisun City is also home to The Salvation Army Kroc Center, which provides a bevy of live outdoor entertainment during a typical summer.

Rush Ranch is a favorite spot for many who enjoy hiking the trails through meadows and green pastures. This beautiful spot is owned by the Solano Land Trust and was purchased in 1988.

The ranch runs along the northeast edge of the Suisun Marsh, stretching across 2,070 acres of marsh and rolling grassland. It provides recreational and educational opportunities to thousands of visitors each year.

The ranch, with its historical buildings and self-guided trails, is located approximately 2 miles south of Highway 12 on Grizzly Island Road.

The city dates back to 1850 when Josiah Wing, a schooner captain, found an island in the Suisun Marsh and built a wharf and warehouse there. It soon became the major agricultural shipping point for the farms and orchards in the Suisun Valley and Green Valley areas.

Its neighboring community, Fairfield, was originally the smaller of the two towns. That changed with World War II, the construction of what is now Travis Air Force Base and Interstate 80.

SEE SUISUN, PAGE 6

Travis Air Force Base helps protect nation, world

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Travis Air Force Base helps protect America with thousands of support staff crossing the globe.

That could take the form of flying bridging materials to Iraq to help in the fight against terrorists, or a team from the 621st Contingency Response Wing to Guatemala to teach their counterparts there about how to run air mobility operations.

Team Travis is made up of activeduty and Air Force Reserve service members who handle a wide range of military and humanitarian relief missions around the world.

Travis’ global reach has ensured the base has been an essential part of the American military team as well as the Pacific Coast’s major air mobility hub since World War II, handling more cargo and passenger traffic than any other military airport in the country.

It is home to the 60th Air Mobility Wing, the Air Force Reserve 349th Air Mobility Wing and the 621st Contingency Response Wing, whose

Established: June 3, 1943

Size: 6,383 acres and 1,790 buildings

Workforce: Approximately 7,400 active-duty Air Force personnel; 2,759 Air Force Reserve personnel and 2,825 civilians

Major units: 60th Air Mobility Wing (commander Col Jay Johnson); 349th Air Mobility Wing (commander Col Patrick L Brady-Lee)

Website: www travis af mil

service members and civilian workers work side by side to provide the nation with air transport and air refueling resources it needs.

Travis and its East Coast counterpart, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, are the backbone of the Air Force’s strategic airlift, aerial refueling and airfield management for ongoing operations in Southwest Asia, the Horn of Africa and other hotspots in the ongoing war on terror.

Originally known as the Fairfield Army Air Base, Travis was established on the east side of Fairfield in 1942 as part of a network of bases to protect

the San Francisco Bay Area from the Imperial Japanese navy in the aftermath of the attack on Pearl Harbor. It soon transformed into the major jump-off point for air transports headed into the Pacific war zone.

After a postwar stint as a Strategic Air Command Base, Travis returned to become one of the busiest military air terminals in the world, supporting every military operation from the Korean War through the present operations in the Middle East.

More than 26,000 people live or work on Travis, creating $1.6 billion in annual economic impact for the local community.

This amount includes spending on service members’ health care, on-base construction and facilities maintenance, payrolls and services contracts.

Travis Air Force Base holds a workforce of about 13,414 personnel. This number includes 7,200 active-duty military members, 3,096 Air Force Reservists, 1,828 civil-service civilians and 1,290 civilians in non-appropriated fund positions, contracts and

Suisun

From Page 5

Suisun City’s growth tapered off.

Tough years followed. In the early 1980s, a survey of San Francisco Bay Area communities called the town the least attractive place to live in the area, which spurred then-Mayor Jim Spering to take on an ambitious redevelopment effort.

Waterfront properties were redeveloped and the crime-ridden Crescent neighborhood was razed and replaced with a Victorian-style development. Improvements continued with the construction of a senior center, community center and library.

Suisun City’s new face earned it

private businesses.

Travis has long been and continues to be the county’s largest employer.

Travis commanders have said that a part of the base’s success has been the close partnerships it has maintained with the surrounding communities and the state.

That has included the Travis Regional Armed Forces Committee and the Travis Community Consortium, both of which have supported the base with events for its airmen and lobbied for it on issues such as base construction and getting

accolades such as Sactown magazine’s description of it as “a sweet and delightfully surprising vacation spot.”

Its downtown is still a work in progress with a good population of restaurants, small businesses and a marina.

The city typically hosts many events, including Christmas on the Waterfront and Fourth of July fireworks. During the summer, there are typically free movies on Saturday nights and jazz concerts Sunday afternoons.

Suisun City has long considered itself a recreation destination for fishermen and hunters going to the Suisun Marsh as well as paddle boarders and kayakers.

The updated 2023 census estimated Suisun City’s population at 29,205.

About 21.3% of its residents are white, 20% Black and 17% Asian. Its median household income is about $97,083.

new missions.

The Travis Regional Armed Forces Committee and the Travis Community Consortium have most recently been active participants in efforts to ensure the base doesn’t suffer when its KC-10 Extender air tankers are retired and to see that Travis will get the new Boeing KC-46 Pegasus air tanker.

Travis was named as one of the bases slated to get the KC-46. A new three-bay hangar and other projects are being built to accommodate the new refueling jets.

It is also estimated that approximately 100,264 military and civil service retirees live within 50 miles of the base.

Of these, more than 15,000 live in Solano County and spend about $298 million in the county.

Suisun City

City Hall: 701 Civic Center Blvd

Website: www suisun com

City manager: Bret Prebula, bprebula@suisun com or 707-421-7300

Mayor: Alma Hernandez Elected 2020, term expires 2026 Reach at ahernandez@suisun com or 707-330-0384

Mayor Pro Tem: Jenalee Dawson Elected 2022, term expires 2026 Reach at jdawson@suisun com or 707-330-4335

Councilwoman: Princess Washington Elected 2022, term expires 2026 Reach at pwashington@ suisun com or 707-330-1802

Councilwoman: Parise Shepherd Elected 2024, term expires 2028 Reach at pshepherd@suisun com or 707-914-6999

Councilman: Amit Pal Elected 2022, term expires 2028 Reach at apal@suisun com or 707-810-0298

David Grant Medical Center is the Air Force’s largest medical facility on the West Coast. It not only serves the medical needs of military service members throughout the Pacific and the western United States, but also cares for more than 105,000 Tricare beneficiaries and veterans.

David Grant works with the Department of Veterans Affairs, which has co-located a growing number of services to care for an estimated 377,000 veterans in the region.

The base’s air fleet includes 18 C-5M Galaxy jet transports, 13 C-17 Globemaster III jet transports, 27 KC-10 Extender air tankers and one of the Navy’s E-6B Mercury reconnaissance and communication aircraft.

Fairfield

From Page 4

after a nice dinner. To that end, the city is providing funding for storefront renovations.

The city set aside $150,000 for a façade program that will help businesses that want to revitalize their building in the downtown area.

Plans include bringing in more art, trees and making the downtown a destination place.

Fairfield is working to streamline the application process for developers and architects who wish to build homes or businesses in the area.

The city is also looking at several areas for further development of residential housing that is affordable for many budgets.

Fairfield has long boasted of an excellent quality of life, relatively low housing costs as compared to the San Francisco Bay Area, and a good selection of retail outlets to make the community a fine place for families to live and work.

Located about halfway between San Francisco and Sacramento, its leaders describe it as more than just a bedroom community for those major metropolitan areas.

They point out its strategic location, extensive transportation links and readily available properties that make it a prime location for commerce.

The city’s status as the county seat reaches back to 1858 and has helped boost growth, beginning with a doubling of the population between the late 1850s and 1880. It was incorporated in 1903.

A century later, more than 44,000 people lived in the city, a number that more than doubled by 2000 and now stands at 119,705, according to 2020 census figures updated July 1, 2021. Its average population growth is 2% per year.

Fairfield now covers more than 40 square miles and is nearly the size of San Francisco.

Rio Vista a Delta town

Water helped give life to this Solano County community and, in 1862, helped to destroy it.

That was when the Sacramento River rose and 12 feet of water covered Rio Vista.

The community moved to higher ground about two miles from its original location where Cache Slough meets the Sacramento River.

The move promoted new buildings with a wharf, a Catholic Church and the Congregational Church all going up in 1862.

Business for the community focused on fishing and a salmon cannery was among the businesses of the river town. Rio Vista’s population nearly doubled between 2000 and 2010 and the California State Department of Finance projects con-

tinued growth.

The Chamber of Commerce likes to note that Joseph Strauss, architect of the Golden Gate Bridge, designed

the community’s largest landmark – Rio Vista Bridge, “situated on the historic Sacramento River with a silhouette of the rolling Montezuma Hills to the south.”

The business group also boasts how Rio Vista “still maintains an easy-going smalltown attitude even though it is

City Hall: 1 Main St , 707-374-6451

Website: www riovistacity com

Assistant City Manager: Jennifer Schultz, 707-374-6451, ext 1103

Mayor: Edwin Okamura Elected in 2022, term expires in 2027 Reach at eokamura@ci rio-vista ca us

Vice mayor: Sarah Donnelly Appointed in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at sdonnelly@ ci rio-vista ca us

Councilwoman: Lisa Duke Elected in 2025, term expires in 2026 Reach at lduke@ci rio-vista ca us

Councilman: Rick Dolk Elected in 2018, term expires in 2026 Reach at rdolk@ci rio-vista ca us

Councilman: Walt Stanish Elected in 2020, term expires in 2028 Reach at wstanish@ci rio-vista ca us

central to the two largest population centers in Northern California.”

The city has retained its small-town identity despite a

Vacaville offers diversity, growth

Vacaville

Vacaville is a town with a diverse and growing business community ranging from life-science companies such as Lonza and Novici Biotech, to regionally known retail stores at the Vacaville Premium Outlets shopping center.

Then there is the affordable housing, quality schools, a wide array of youth activities, and numerous community events that contribute to making Vacaville a family oriented city.

With Vacaville’s central location, residents can “day trip” to beaches, the San Francisco Bay area, Lake Tahoe, and the Napa Valley wine country.

However, they need not look further than Vacaville for a wide range of arts and entertainment opportunities, including the Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre and yearly celebrations such as Fiesta Days and Merriment on Main at Christmastime.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, there is hiking or picnicking in Lagoon Valley Park, strolling along the beautiful Creekwalk or participating in sports in any of Vacaville’s parks.

Residents and visitors enjoy an expanding choice of restaurants in the revitalized, historic downtown, and some of the best shopping in the area with a thriving retail district along Interstate 80 that includes one of the largest factory outlet complexes in California.

City Hall: 650 Merchant St Website: www cityofvacaville com

City manager: Savita Chaudhary, 707-449-5100, savita chaudhary@cityofvacaville com

Mayor: John Carli Elected in 2022 Term expires in 2027 Reach at john carli@cityofvacaville com or 707-449-5135

Vice Mayor: Gregory Ritchie II Elected in 2020 Term expires in 2027 Reach at greg ritchie@ cityofvacaville com or 707-337-6713

Councilman: Ted Fremouw Elected in 2025 Term expires in 2028 Reach at ted fremouw@ cityofvacaville com

Councilwoman: Sarah Chapman Elected in 2022 Term expires in 2027 Reach at sarah chapman@ cityofvacaville com or 707-454-9470

Councilwoman: Jeanette Wylie Elected in 2020 Term expires in 2027 Reach at jeanette wylie@ cityofvacaville com or 707-432-8929

Councilman: Michael Silva Elected in 2020 Term expires in 2028 Reach at michael silva@ cityofvacaville com or 707-438-5929

Councilman: Roy Stockton Elected in 2020 Term expires in 2028 Reach at roy stockton@ cityofvacaville com or 707-432-8928

The generally low crime and quality of life helped attract new businesses, Amazon chief among those. A number of small but prominent businesses also opened in Vacaville, like Dutch Bros., Rice Barn and others.

Sprouts supermarket opened its doors in 2018.

Recently, Mendocino Farms opened at the Nut Tree Plaza along with Daiso.

Rio Vista

From Page 7

veritable population explosion in recent years. According to census data from April 1, 2020, Rio Vista is home to 10,005 people – although that is a number derived partially through a 36% growth in population since 2010.

It is both near and remote given its geography, about a 20-minute drive from most other places of any size and note.

Rio Vista’s Chamber of Commerce claims the town has some of the best sport fishing in the state. One of the oldest striped bass derby’s is held each October with thousands of attendees.

The community also as a small airport on the outskirts of town.

Vacaville, which was incorporated in 1892, currently covers just under 27 square miles in a beautiful setting bordered by rolling hillsides, fruit orchards, and fertile farmland.

The town enjoys warm summers and mild winters, with an average summer high of 94 degrees and an average winter low of 36 degrees. Annual rainfall averages about 24 inches.

The city’s rich history has seen it transformed from a small agricultural town into a thriving and progressive city; now a diverse population of around 103,994 as of the 2024, updated Census information.

While the city’s population history and demographics show its rapid growth, Vacaville remains a “small town at heart,” whose residents pride themselves on the high level of community involvement.

Vacaville is a diverse community with 45.9% whites, 11.5% Hispanics, 10.4% Asians, 8.54% Blacks along with 7.89% other nationalities, according to the latest Census numbers.

The median household income is around $108,000. The latest census information shows the median property value is $597,700.

The city of Vacaville provides high-quality recreation programs for all ages and has continued to invest in stateof-the-art public recreation facilities, including a new community pool with water slides and a diving well, ball fields, and a skateboard park.

The community is also home to “world-class” Percheron horses, buffalo, and the only endive producer in the United States, the chamber notes.

Endive is a leafy vegetable in the chicory family.

Whatever you’re looking for, you will find Rio Vista a friendly, fun place to visit, right in the heart of the California Delta.

The city offers shopping downtown, several restaurants, and the Rio Vista Museum on 16 N. Front Street where visitors can learn more about the Rio Vista and Delta history.

Rio Vista working to on community improvements including an upgrading to the town’s infrastructure and modernizing downtown. The community is counting on its location to continue growing, as Rio Vista did during the days when being next to the Sacramento River allowed the town to capitalize on trade between San Francisco and Sacramento.

Fairfield and Lodi, about 20 minutes away on Highway 12, are the larger nearby cities. Stockton and Sacramento are only half an hour away on nearby Interstate 5.

Nearly 6% of the city exists within neighboring waterways – and the community’s future may match its river past.

Dixon an afforable place to call home

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

he town was originally going to be named, Dicksonville after pioneer Thomas Dickson, who donated 10 acres of his property for a railroad depot. However, a merchandise shipment in 1872 misspelled the name as Dixon.

TAlmost two years of trying to have the town formally named Dicksonville ended in 1874 when the county recorder filed the name Dixon on new maps.

The town’s agricultural heritage draws from some of Solano County’s most fertile soil in which farmers grow everything from tomatoes to alfalfa, ranchers run cattle and sheep, and orchardists grow almonds and walnuts.

The annual Dixon May Fair, which began in the late 1800s and is the longest continually running agriculture fair in California, helps keep Dixon’s farming heritage alive.

The Grillin-n-Chillin Car Show and Rib Cookoff is a one-of-a-kind event for Northern California for more than a dozen years. The Dixon Action Team DBA Grillin-n-Chillin is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has been able to raise money for a variety of organizations and groups in the area including 4-H, veterans, schools, FFA, churches, and sports organizations.

Benicia offers historical charm

Its status as the former state capital is part of California history, but Benicia also was once destined to be called Francisca until Yerba Buena changed its name to San Francisco and the similarity spurred the town’s founder to select another name.

Robert Semple in 1847 had wanted to name the town after Gen. Mariano Vallejo’s wife, Francisca Maria Felipa Benicia Carrillo de Vallejo, and he still did. Semple just chose another of her many names.

The town’s residential and business districts are on its west side, with a vibrant waterfront as well as the Benicia State Recreation Area along Southhampton Bay. Closer to Bay Area job hubs, housing costs are a bit higher in Benicia than in other parts of Solano County, according to census data, but the median household income is also higher – about 50% higher – than the statewide median income.

Benicia is home to events that range from Arts Benicia and the Benicia Peddlers Fair to The Holy Ghost Parade and the July 3 Torchlight Parade.

City Hall: 250 E L St 746-4200

Website: www ci benicia ca us

City manager: Mario Giuliani Reach at 707-746-4200, MGiuliani@ci benicia ca us

Mayor: Steve Young Elected in 2016, term expires in 2029 Reach at syoung@ci benicia us

Vice mayor: Trevor Macenski Elected in 2020, term expires in 2028 Reach at tmacenski@ ci benicia ca us

Councilwoman: Kari Birdseye Elected in 2022, term expires in 2027 Reach at KBirdseye@ ci benicia ca us

Councilman: Lionel Largaespada Elected in 2020, term expires in 2028 Reach at llargaespada@ci benicia ca us

Councilman: Terry Scott Elected in 2022, term expires in 2027 Reach at tscott@ci benicia ca us

Its industrial side includes the Port of Benicia and the town’s largest employer, the Valero Oil Refinery, with its tanks, pipes and stacks that sprawl across a large area alongside Interstate 680. Earlier this year, Valero announced plans to cease operations in 2026.

The town could have been the center of California politics when the state in 1853 declared Benicia as the capital

after deciding it was dissatisfied with Vallejo in that role. Lawmakers took over the Benicia City Hall, with its Doric columns and appearance of a Greek temple.

The State Legislature met again in Benicia in 1854. It voted to make Benicia the permanent state capital. Then lawmakers quickly changed their minds when 100 people coming to the session couldn’t find lodgings and had to sleep in saloons. They moved the capital to Sacramento.

Another historical site is the Benicia Arsenal, built in 1849 as an ordinance supply depot. William Tecumseh Sherman and Ulysses S. Grant spent time there prior to going on to Civil War fame. Sherman became an admirer of the town.

“That Benicia has the best natural site for a commercial city, I am satisfied and had half the money and half the labor since bestowed upon San Francisco been expended at Benicia, we should have at this day a city of palaces along the Carquinez Strait,” he wrote in his memoir.

The arsenal also stabled the U.S.

Vallejo offers more than expected

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom may be the best-known landmark, but the largest city in Solano County also has been home to the Mare Island Naval Shipyard and twice served as the state capital.

The Mare Island Naval Shipyard, established in 1854, was long the center of the city’s economy and spurred much of its growth – and with development plans across the island –may soon be again.

The second largest Navy yard in the United States closed officially on April 1, 1996.

At one point, it employed 10,000 people.

Mare Island was included in 1993 on the Base Realignment and Closure Commission’s list. President Bill Clinton approved the recommendation and Congress accepted it.

The excellent Mare Island Strait led the Navy in 1852 to buy land for Mare Island Naval Shipyard. The first commander was David Glasgow Farragut, who later gained fame during the Civil War for capturing Mobile, Alabama, and for operations along the lower Mississippi River.

From Page 9

Dixon formed in 1851 when pioneer Elijah Silvey founded the town of Silveyville, which was located a few miles from present-day location. Silvey set up a hotel and saloon for mule teams traveling between San Francisco and the gold fields in the Sierra Nevada and put up a red lantern to make certain people could find it.

By 1865, Silveyville had about 150 residents and boasted a store, blacksmith shop and a post office, with Silvey serving as postmaster. The growing community was

The shipyard was a mainstay of the Pacific Fleet’s presence through World War II and the Cold War. Vallejo has since redeveloped Mare Island as an industrial area work in progress as well as home to institutions such as Touro University and residential subdivisions.

hit hard when the Central Pacific railroad built the rails in 1868 several miles away. Many buildings from Silveyville made the move closer to the railroad tracks creating the new town of Dixon. Silveyville slowly faded from history.

In a twist of irony, one of the few buildings to survive from Silveyville was a church that was too large to be hauled over the railroad tracks. When a massive fire burned down much of Dixon, the church survived quite literally because it was on the wrong side of the tracks.

On Nov. 19, 1883, a fire started in the kitchen of the Centennial Hotel, where the Moose Lodge is now located,

Loss of revenue from the

and almost completely destroyed the town. Winds up to 60 mph spread the fire and the town’s saloons and six churches were destroyed in hours.

A city ordinance that followed set brick or tin as the building material of choice.

Dixon has become more suburban in recent decades, with subdivisions swelling the population of commuters who travel to Davis and the Sacramento area to work.

The city, which was incorporated in 1878, currently has an estimated 19,000 residents as of the Census data from 2023. The population reflects a diversity of people including 43.6% are Hispanic. Of the

closed shipyard and slow redevelopment forced Vallejo to declare bankruptcy in 2008, becoming the largest city in the state to do so. The city emerged from bank-

ruptcy in 2011.

Vallejo is home to Six Flags, which offers family entertainment with roller coasters and

City Hall: 600 E A St , 678-7000 Website: www citiofdixon ca us

City Manager: Jim Lindley Reach at 707-678-7000, ext 101, jlindley@cityofdixon us

Mayor: Steve Bird Elected in 2016, term expires in 2028 Reach at sbird@ cityofdixon us

City Councilman: Thom Bogue Elected in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at thombogue@yahoo com

City Councilman: Don Hendershot Elected in 2020, term expires in 2028 Reach at dhendershot@cityofdixon us

City Councilman: Kevin Johnson Elected in 2020, term expires in 2028 Reach at kjohnson@cityofdixon us

City Councilman: Jim Ernest Elected in 2018, term expires in 2026 Reach at jernest@cityofdixon us

non-Hispanic population, 46.5% are white, 4.54% are two or more races.

The median household income is at $98,798.

According to the census, in 2023, the median property value in Dixon was $575,600, and the homeownership rate was 59.3%.

Vallejo

From Page 10

animal shows. The Solano County fairground also offers a treat for families throughout the year with not just a county fair, but a multitude of events from dog shows to holiday markets.

Century-old Victorian houses and educational institutions, including Touro University California and the California Maritime Academy, are also in the city.

Vallejo is also a commuting point, with the Vallejo ferry providing daily service to San Francisco from a terminal on the city’s waterfront.

Founded in 1851 and named after Gen. Mariano Vallejo, the town has served as the state capital twice since 1850s, eventually Sacramento took the seat of power as the capital city of California.

Artisan businesses and an infusion of film and tech companies promise again to make Mare Island a vibrant economic engine for Vallejo.

Vallejo also has plans to redevelop its downtown and waterfront. Plans call for more higher-density housing within walking distance of the ferry and stops for the city and regional bus systems, as well as more commercial development.

Vallejo is among the county’s most diverse cities. Its population is roughly 120,000 as of

City Hall: 555 Santa Clara St , 707-648-4527

Website: www ci vallejo ca us

City manager: Andrew Murray Reach at 707-648-4576, pio@cityofvallejo net

Mayor: Andrea Sorce Elected in 2024, term expires in 2028 Reach at 707-648-4377 or andrea sorce@ cityofvallejo net

Vice mayor: Peter Bregenzer Elected in 2022, term expires in 2027 Reach at peter bregenzer@cityofvallejo net or 707-648-4131

Councilman: Diosdado “JR” Matulac Appointed in 2022, term expires in 2027 Reach at jr matulac@cityofvallejo net or 707-648-4132

Councilman: Alexander Matias Elected in 2025 Term expires 2028 Reach at alexander matias@cityofvallejo net or 707-648-4134

Councilwoman: Tonia Lediju Elected in 2025, term expires in 2028 Reach at tonia lediju@cityofvallejo net or 707-649-7716

Councilman: Charles Palmares Elected in 2022, term expires in 2027 Reach at charles palmares@ cityofvallejo net or 707-648-4133

Councilwoman: Helen-Marie Gordon Elected in 2025, term expires in 2028 Reach at marie gordon@ cityofvallejo net or 707-649-7711

2025, according to the U.S. Census most recent numbers. The population averages about 27.29% white, 23% Asian, 17% Black, 1.11% American Indian and .97% two or more races. The median household income is $112,627.

JIM AND DARL A STEVER

Jim Stever was born in Fair field and has been selling real estate here since 1978. Darla was born in Vallejo and has been selling real estate since 1989 and added proper ty management services in 2010. They know Solano County and strive to meet the specialized needs of each client, using the highest ethical standards. Jim and Darla are both Past Presidents of the Solano County Association of REALTORS. They were vote d one of the top ten real estate agencies and Brokers for the past 28 years!

Benicia

From Page 9

Army’s only Camel Corps, which was disbanded in 1863. The Camel Barns, built in 1855, now house the Benicia Historical Museum. Union troops from the West gathered at the arsenal during the Civil War.

After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, 125 truck convoys were loaded at the arsenal.

Two-hundred-and-fifty Italian and 400 German prisoners of war were once kept in the building.

Benicia was almost economically shattered in the 1960s when the arsenal closed, removing its economic foundation. However, recreation of the arsenal land as a successful industrial park that contains the Valero refinery helped save the town’s economy.

The town has several events annual for families to enjoy like the Benicia Waterfront Festival.

The festival is a two-day event that offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque waterfront locale with

two days of live music, microbrew tastings, arts and crafts marketplace, delectable gourmet foods, and kids’ activity area.

In addition, they have a weekly Farmers Market where visitors can pick up fresh, locally grown foods.

The city also has a Peddlers Fair, which has been around since 1963. It has grown considerably whereas it was just on the church property with a few collectible and antique stores displaying their items on tables outside St Paul’s Church, today it takes up eleven blocks of the downtown. It has grown to 300 select antique and collectible dealers from all over the country and thousands of loyal returning fans who love to have a good antique stroll.

Benicia boasts a population of about 26,819 based on the July 1, 2021, update to the 2020 census. The median income of residents is $106,989. The breakdown of the population is 63.9% white, 13.9% Hispanic, 11.5% Asian, 3.2% Black and 9.5% who describe themselves as two or more races.

County boasts many different qualities

Solano County keeps on ticking through whatever life throws at it.

Groundwater management, the Delta, regional issues such as transportation and housing and the pressures created by federal and state decisions are all pushing on the 175-year-old county and its seven cities – the oldest of which is Benicia.

The county has a variety of personalities, often split between the coastal cities to the south and the more valley-like persona to the north. It is both a Delta and boasts a healthy expanse of agricultural lands and designed natural open spaces.

Agriculture continues to be an important part of the county, both in terms of the $437.9 million economy it generates, and the historical-cultural connection as the present grips onto its past.

The blooming wine and beer industries, and agriculture tourism are changing the county from a primary farm-centered swath of California to a more tourist-friendly venture.

Solano covers 909.4 square miles, including 84.2 square miles of water area and 675.4 square miles of rural land area. It is also home to Travis Air Force Base.

Solano County had a total population of 451,716 as of the start of 2021. The population is divided almost evenly by gender, with 49.8% female and about 50% male.

The largest city continues to be Vallejo with 121,275. It was incorporated in 1868. Following Vallejo are Fairfield (1903) with 111,891 residents; Vacaville (1892) with 99,958; Suisun City (1868) with 29,459; Dixon (1878)

with 20,106; and Rio Vista (1893) with 10,005 residents.

The median age is 38.9, according to 2020 census information.

The county’s population, however, is getting older, with 16.9% of residents over the age of 64, according to 2020 census information. That compares to 9.5% in that age group in 2000, 8.2% in 1990, 7.5% in 1980, 6.7% in 1970, 5.9% in 1960 and 4.9% in 1950.

Fairfield is the county seat despite being the youngest of all the cities. Benicia was the county seat until 1858.

The county government has a five-member Board of Supervisors who are elected by district for four-year terms of office.

It passed its first billion-dollar budget in June 2017, and backed that up with a similar fiscal blueprint every year since, reaching $1.65 billion for 2025-26.

Solano ranks 21st among the 58 counties in the state for population, with a birth rate of 66.1 per 1,000 female residents ages 15 to 44, according to the most recent information. The death rate is 725 per every 100,000 residents.

There are about 1,900 miles of roads and highways, the county reports, of which the county maintains 585.5 miles.

The county also has 92 bridges.

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Near perfect weather helps make Solano home

he climate in Solano County has a little something to offer everyone. While plenty of sunshine is common in the region, the condition that most influences the weather in general is the wind.

TSuisun City, after all, is named after the wind.

The perfect place to live in Solano County, as far as the weather is concerned, really depends on how warm or cool one likes it. For those seeking cooler temperatures, locations in the western side of the county like Suisun City, Fairfield, Vallejo and Benicia are preferable. Those wanting things a little warmer might prefer the eastern side of the county in places like Vacaville and Dixon.

The Solano County Climate Action Plan specifically mentions the influence of the wind, stating, “Solano County has some of the strongest inland winds in California.”

The development of wind power with the Montezuma Wind Project and Solano Wind Facility

are evidence the wind is a constant aspect of Solano’s weather. Even businesses like Fairfield’s Anheuser-Busch plant have taken note, installing wind turbines that generate as much as 15% of the facility’s annual energy, according to the Climate Action Plan.

To understand fully how the wind affects weather in one half of the county and less so in the other, one needs only examine the climate differences between Fairfield and Vacaville, which is the general dividing line for the wind’s influence.

According to the Western Regional Climate Center, the average annual wind speed in Vacaville is 6 mph, while the average in Fairfield is 12.7 mph.

The overall effect on temperature is negligible, with Fairfield having an average high temperature of 73.2 degrees and an average low of 47.5 degrees, compared to the Vacaville average high and low of 76.2 degrees and 48.7 degrees, respectively. Where the influence of the wind really shows up is in weather extremes. Vacaville averages 21 days a year with highs over 100 degrees, while Fairfield averages just 11 days over 100 degrees.

County officials

Who they are, how to reach them

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

The Solano County Board of Supervisors and other elected and appointed county officials are available by phone or email.

Here is how to contact them and other county officials:

Board of Supervisors

1st District: Cassandra R James, 675 Texas St , Suite 6500, Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-3261 Term expires January 2029 First elected 2024 Email: crjames@solanocounty gov Website: www solanocounty gov/government/board-supervisors/ board-members/cassandra-james-district-1

2nd District: Monica Brown, 675 Texas St , Suite 6500, Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-3031 Term expires January 2029 First elected 2016 Email: mebrown@ solanocounty com Website: www solanocounty com/ depts/bos/members/brown/default asp

3rd District: Wanda Williams, 675 Texas St , Suite 6500, Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-6136 Term expires January 2027 First elected 2006 Email: wlwilliams@solanocounty com Website: www solanocounty com/depts/bos/members/williams/ default asp

4th District: John Vasquez, 675 Texas St , Suite 6500, Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-6129 Term expires January 2027 First elected 2002 Email: jmvasquez@ solanocounty com Website: www solanocounty gov/ government/board-supervisors/board-members/ supervisor-john-m-vasquez

5th District: Mitch Mashburn, 675 Texas St , Suite 6500, Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784 -6130 Term expires January 2029 First elected 2020 Email: mhmashburn@solanocounty com Website: www solanocounty gov/government/board-supervisors/ board-members/mitch-mashburn-district-5

Other elected officials

Assessor-Recorder: Glenn Zook, 675 Texas St Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-6210 Term expires January 2027 Appointed 2005, first elected 2006 Website: www solanocounty com/depts/ar/home asp

Auditor-Controller: Janine Harris, 675 Texas St Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-6280 Term expires January 2027 Appointed in 2025 Website: www co solano ca us/depts/auditor/default asp

District Attorney: Krishna Abrams, 675 Texas St , Suite 4500, Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-6800 Term expires January 2029 First elected 2014 Website: www solanocounty com/depts/da/default asp

Sheriff/Coroner: Tom Ferrara/Brad DeWall (Sept 25, 2025), 530 Union Ave , Suite 100, Fairfield, 94533

SEE OFFICIALS, PAGE 15

Daily Republic the place to find countywide happenings

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

he Daily Republic continues to be the best source of central Solano County news and events for residents who want to know what is happening in their community.

TOne of Solano County’s oldest newspapers continues to be one of the best windows on Fairfield, Suisun City, and its surrounding communities whether in print or online.

Under one name or another, the Daily Republic has covered central Solano County’s news since before the Civil War – from the area’s rural roots as a jumping-off spot for the gold rush to today’s much more urban, hightech society.

The Daily Republic got its start as two newspapers – the Solano County Herald and the Solano Press. The Herald was first issued in Benicia in November 1855. It moved to Suisun City with its first publication there on Oct. 2, 1858, with offices in a building on the south side of the city plaza. It was the first newspaper in the nation to editorially support Abraham Lincoln for president.

The Solano Press was created in 1862 in Suisun City. Seven years later, the Herald and the Press were consolidated and renamed the Solano Republican.

The Solano County Herald moved from Benicia to Suisun City in 1858 and started printing in Suisun City in 1862. These newspapers consolidated into the Solano Republican not long after.

The Solano Republican was bought in 1919 by David Weir, who was not only a journalist but a historian who published travel books and the biography of clipper ship captain and Fairfield founder Robert Waterman.

J. Clifton Toney bought the newspaper in 1949 and sold it to Dean McNaughton in 1960. The McNaughton family has been involved in the newspaper business since the 1920s.

Under Dean McNaughton’s guidance, the Solano Republican’s readership grew and changed from a weekly to a five-day paper and then to a daily publication. When it changed to a daily, its name changed to the Daily Republic.

It has since served as the window to the community and the world for its readers, as well as receiving accolades year after year from the California News Publishers Association.

Foy McNaughton, CEO, notes that no longer is the newspaper restricted to the coverage area of the printed products when helping clients grow their business. The Daily Republic can now help its clients target their consumers anywhere they are in the United States, utilizing a variety of digital solutions that include website design, programmatic display, native, geo-fencing, social media, Connected TV, streaming radio, email, paid search and organic search.

“Another differentiator that has set us apart is the fact that we provide our clients access to one of the most comprehensive and transparent reporting tools available for multiplatform advertising, which our clients can access 24/7. It has been very exciting being on the forefront of digital technology and having the ability to add quality targeted digital solutions to our media mix to help our clients reach their target consumers,” McNaughton said.

Whether it is in print or online, the Daily Republic has consistently brought its readers all the news that affects its distribution area, from Fairfield, Suisun City and Travis Air Force Base; to Vacaville, Dixon and Winters; to Rio Vista and back to Suisun Valley and Green Valley.

The Daily Republic went to

President/CEO/Publisher: Foy McNaughton, 707-427-6962, fmnaughton@dailyrepublic net

Co-publisher/COO: T Burt McNaughton, 707-427-6943, tbmcnaughton@dailyrepublic net

Advertising Director: T Burt McNaughton, 707-427-6943, tbmcnaughton@dailyrepublic net

Managing Editor: Todd R Hansen, 707-4276932, thansen@dailyrepublic net

Address: 1250 Texas St , Fairfield, P O Box 47, Fairfield, CA 94533

Office hours: 9 a m to 3 p m Monday through Friday

Phone numbers: Circulation: 707427-6989 (drcirc@dailyrepublic net); Classifieds/Front Office: 707427-6936 (drclass@dailyrepublic net); Display Ads: 707-425-4646; Subscriber services and delivery concerns: 707-427-6989; Sports Department: 707-425-4646, ext 195; Newsroom: 707-425-4646

Website: www dailyrepublic com Facebook: www facebook com/DailyRepublic

publishing its print edition two days a week over the past few years, but keeps its website edition fresh seven days a week.

More and more people are turning to the newspaper’s website as well to find out what’s going on.

The Daily Republic prides itself on giving its readers a wide offering of local, state, national and international news along with sports, entertainment, commentary and business.

Phone: 707-421-7000 Term expires January 2029

Appointed 2012, first elected 2014 Website: www solanocounty gov/government/sheriff-coroner

Tax Collector/County Clerk/Treasurer: Charles Lomeli, 675 Texas St , Fairfield, 94533 Term expires January 2027 First elected 1998 Website: www solanocounty com/depts/ttcc/default asp

County Clerk Division: Phone: 707-784-7510, website: www solanocounty gov/government/ treasurer-tax-collector-county-clerk

Tax Collection Division: Phone: 707-784-7485, website: www solanocounty gov/government/ treasurer-tax-collector-county-clerk

Treasury Division: Phone: 707-784-6295, website: www solanocounty gov/government/ treasurer-tax-collector-county-clerk

Appointed officials

Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer Weights and Measures: Ed King, 2543 Cordelia Road, Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-1310 Website: www solanocounty gov/government/agriculture

Chief Probation Officer: Dean Farrah, 475 Union Ave , Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-7600 Website: www solanocounty gov/government/probation

Director of Child Support Services: Liane Peck, 435 Executive Court North, Fairfield, 94534 Phone: 866-901-3212 Website: www solanocounty gov/ government/child-support-services

County Administrator: William F Emlen, 675 Texas St , Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-6100 Website: www solanocounty gov/government/ county-administrators-office

County Counsel: Bernadette Curry, 675 Texas St , Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-6140 Website: www solanocounty gov/government/county-counsel

General Services Director: Dustin Leno, 675 Texas St Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-7900 Website: www solanocounty gov/government/general-services

Health and Social Services Director: Emery Cowan, 275 Beck Ave , Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-8400 Website: www solanocounty gov/government/ health-social-services-hss

Human Resources Director: Niger Edwards, 675 Texas St , Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-6170 Website: www solanocounty gov/government/ human-resources

Library Services Director: Suzanne Olawski, 1150 Kentucky St , Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-7841500 Website: solanolibrary com/ new-director-of-library-services

Public Defender: Elena D’Agustino, 675 Texas St , Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-6700 Website: www solanocounty gov/government/public-defender Registrar of Voters: Tim Flanagan, 675 Texas St , Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-6675 Website: www solanocounty gov/government/registrar-voters

Resources Management Director: James Bezek, 675 Texas St , Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-6765

Website: www solanocounty gov/government/ resource-management

Veteran Services Director: Alfred Sims, 675 Texas St Fairfield, 94533 Phone: 707-784-6590 Website: www solanocounty gov/government/veterans-services

Vehicles drive along the Highway 12 overpass onto eastbound Interstate 80 near the site of the Interstate 80/Interstate 680/Highway 12 Interchange Project.

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Progress continues to be made on the Interstate 80/ Interstate 680/Highway 12 Interchange Project.

Packages 1 and 2 for the interchange have been fully completed and the Solano Transportation Authority is working to secure funding for the next phase, “Package 5.”

This package would construct a new westbound Highway 12 / Red Top Road / Business Center Drive interchange, and extend Business Center Diver across Highway 12 to connect with the realigned Red Top Road at the I-80/Red Top Road interchange.

Package 3, in the design phase, will construct the first of the two main regional interstate connectors, realigning southbound I-680 to the west and connecting back near a new, partial I-680/Red Top Road Interchange. The partial interchange will realign Lopes Road and Fermi Road to accommodate the future I-680 northbound alignment, STA reports.

Package 4, in the environmental review phase, “will realign northbound I-680, construct a new direct connector between I-680 northbound

Solano County transportation options

Fairfield-Suisun Transit System: www fasttransit org or 707-422-2877

Bay Area Rapid Transit: www bart gov or 510-465-2278 (Fairfield and Vallejo buses and Capitol Corridor trains connect with BART stations)

SolTrans (Benicia and Vallejo bus service): www soltrans org or 707-648-4046

Vallejo Baylink Ferry: https://sanfranciscobayferry com/ routes-schedules/vallejo or 877-643-3779

Dixon Readi-Ride: www cityofdixon us/departments/transitor or 707-678-5020

Vacaville City Coach Transit: www citycoach com or 707-449-6000

Rio Vista Delta Breeze: www riovistacity com/deltabreeze or 707-374-2878

Nut Tree Airport, Vacaville: www solanocounty gov/government/general-services/nut-tree-airport or 707-469-4600

Rio Vista Airport: www riovistacity com/airport or 707-374-2176

Capitol Corridor Trains: www capitolcorridor org or 877-974-3322

Solano-Napa Commuter Information: www commuterinfo net or 800-535-6883

to Highway 12 westbound, widen I-80 westbound, remove Neitzel Road, reconstruct the eastbound ramps at I-80/Green Valley Road, construct a new westbound off-ramp at the I-80/ Green Valley Road Interchange, and complete both the Suisun Road and Green Valley Road interchanges by constructing a new westbound on ramp at the I-80/Suisun Road Interchange,” STA reports.

“Together, these improvements will benefit motorists and the local

community by improving travel times, reducing cut-through traffic on local streets, and enhance safety and operational efficiency for motorists along the I-80/I-680/SR-12 Interchange linking the Bay Area, the Napa Valley, and Sacramento,” the state Department of Transportation reported.

The most recent piece of the full project to be completed was the opening of the new eastbound

Tastings, tours, hiking, biking among county’s attractions

On a limited budget, but want to get out of the house? Solano County is home to parks, waterfronts, free tours and more.

It’s best to check with each venue before visiting to confirm days and hours of operations.

Here are some of the area’s leading attractions:

Amusement parks

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom: 1001 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo An amusement park with rides, shows and animals Info: 707-634-6722, www sixflags com/discoverykingdom

Outdoor activities

County-run parks: Popular destinations include Lynch Canyon in the hills between Fairfield and Vallejo and Lake Solano along Putah Creek near Winters Rio Vista is home to Sandy Beach along

the Sacramento River Info: 707-784-6765, www solanocounty com/depts/rm/countypark/ homepage asp

Grizzly Island Wildlife Area: 2548 Grizzly Island Road, Suisun Marsh Fishing, hunting and hiking opportunities are available Info: 707-425-3828, https://wildlife ca gov/lands/places-to-visit/ grizzly-island-wa

Lagoon Valley/Peña Adobe Park: On Pena Adobe Road near Interstate 80 in Vacaville Offers trails, picnic areas and Lagoon Valley lake for fishing Info: 707-449-5654, www visitvacaville com/directory/ lagoon-valley-park

Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve: 1595 Railroad Ave , Mare Island, Vallejo This 215-acre area along the southern shore of Mare Island offers hiking and includes Mare Island Hill with views of San Pablo Bay, the Carquinez Strait, Mare Island Strait and Vallejo Also includes the oldest naval cemetery in the Pacific and a former naval ammunition depot Info: 707-249-9633

Rockville Hills Regional Park: 2149 Rockville Road Fairfield owns this 633-acre park with hiking trails Info: 707-428-7614, https://www fairfield ca gov/ government/city-departments/public-works/

Interstate 80 to southbound Interstate 680 connector ramp.

What will eventually be an Express Lane opened in March. It runs from the Interstate 505 interchange in Vacaville to Air Base Parkway in Fairfield.

“Roadway construction on the new express lane is ongoing and electronics and hardware for collecting tolls are still being installed. In the meantime, this lane is available to vehicles with two or more people on board weekdays from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.”

Unlike carpool lanes, however, express lanes can be managed so the occupancy requirements and hours of operation can be changed according to circumstances.

“In the traffic control center, the operators collect data from roadway sensors and by observation. Then, if the operators wish to change the occupancy requirement of the express lane, they communicate it to motorists through the large electronic message boards that overhang the freeway,” Caltrans reported.

“As work is still in progress, Caltrans asks motorists to be mindful of their speed for the safety of our workers. Caltrans and its transportation partners expect to formally launch the completed express lane by late 2025. At that time, motorists using the new traffic lane will be charged as appropriate,” Caltrans reported.

That will require motorists to pay for FasTrak services.

The interchange project is viewed as a critical element to improving the traffic flow. It also will assist in moving freight through the area, but it is not the only project local officials are trumpeting.

Waterways, railways and highways have all played a role as transportation has evolved over the years in Solano County.

All three of those methods of transportation remain an option for county residents to get around, whether traveling for work or pleasure.

The bulk of travel is by motor vehicle, with many commuters traveling west to the Bay Area or east to Sacramento on Interstate 80, which slices through the middle of the county.

It is its role as a freight corridor that adds its economic power.

Several routes branch off I-80 in

Solano County to the north and south, including Interstate 680, Interstate 780, Interstate 505, Highway 12, Highway 37 and Highway 113.

The railroad, which was a part of the county’s heritage, continues to serve an important role for transportation in the county.

Suisun City is a regular stop for Capitol Corridor trains that run between Auburn and San Jose. Work is underway on a new Fairfield-Vacaville train station that will be located on Peabody Road.

Waterways, which played such a key

part in the development of several cities in Solano County, provide an additional option to commuters in the county.

The Vallejo Baylink Ferry has commute runs from the Vallejo waterfront to San Francisco. Work is also underway on another ferry stop in Vallejo across the Mare Island Strait from the present terminal, on Mare Island.

And the restructuring of Highway 37 to combat sea rise and alleviate congestion has also moved closer to the top of the priority list.

Customers sit inside the main tasting room at Wooden Valley Winery in Fairfield.

Attractions

From Page 16

rockville-hills-regional-park-open-space661?locale=en

Rush Ranch Open Space: 2 miles south of Suisun City on Grizzly Island Road About 2,070 acres of open space in hills and wetlands with hiking trails Info: 707-432-0152, https://solanolandtrust org/ protected-lands/rush-ranch

Tasting

Brass Tap: 780 Orange Drive, Vacaville Open 11 a m to 10 p m Monday through Thursday; 11 a m to midnight Friday, 10 a m to midnight Saturday, 10 a m to 10 p m Saturday and Sunday Info: 707-724-0634, www brasstapbeerbar com/vacaville

Heretic Brewing: 1052 Horizon Drive, Suite B Fairfield

Tasting from 3 to 9 p m Monday through Thursday, noon to 9 p m Friday through Sunday Info: 707-389-4573, www hereticbrewing com

IL Fiorello Olive Oil Company: 2625 Mankas Corner Road, Fairfield Tasting from 11 a m to 5 p m daily Info: 707-864-1520, www ilfiorello com

Rustwater Kitchen & Taproom: 800 Texas St , Fairfield Open noon daily except Mondays Info: www rustwater co

Sepay Groves: 364 First St , Benicia Tasting from 10 a m to 5:30 p m Tuesday through Saturday and 11 a m to 4 p m Sunday Info: 707-434-8222, www sepayoliveoil com

Slanted Tree Kitchen & Taproom: 251 Pittman Road, Suite E, Fairfield Open 11 a m to 10 p m Monday through Thursday, 10 a m to midnight Friday and Saturday Info: www slantedtree net

Suisun Valley Filling Station & Visitor Center: 2529 Mankas Corner Road, Fairfield Open 1 to 7 p m

Tuesday through Thursday, 1 to 8 p m Friday and Saturday, 1 to 6 p m Sunday Info: 707-863-1555, www suisunvalleyfillingstation com

True Symmetry Brewing Company: 315 Marina Center, Suisun City Open 4 to 9 p m Wednesday and Thursday, 2 to 9:30 p m Friday, noon to 9 p m Saturday, noon to 7 p m Sunday Info: www truesymmetry beer

Wine Tastings

BackRoad Vines at Village 360: 11 a m to 5 p m daily, 4949 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield Info: 707-759-0185, https://backroadvines com

Bally Keal Estate: 4286 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield 707-770-5434, www ballykeal com

Caymus-Suisun Winery: 10 a m to 5 p m daily, 4991 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield Info: 707-286-1776,

www wagnerfamilyofwine com/come-visit/ caymus-suisun

GV Cellars: Noon to 4 p m Saturday, 1635 Mason Road, Fairfield Info: 707-864-2089, www gvcellars com

Mangels Vineyards: Noon to 5 p m Friday through Sunday, 4529 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield Info: 707-410-5392, www mangelsvineyards com

Rock Creek: Noon to 5 p m Saturday, 4610 Green Valley Road, Fairfield Info: 707-864-2471, rockcreekvineyard com

Ryan Darrall Wine: By appointment only, 4994 Gordon Valley Road, Fairfield Info: 707-287-5381, www ryandarrallwine com

Sentivo Suisun Valley: 11 a m to 5 p m Sunday through Thursday, 11 to 8 p m Friday and Saturday, 2316 Rockville Road, Fairfield Info: 707-703-5362, www sentivovineyards com

Sonoma Harvest Wine and Olive Oil Tasting Room: 770 Chadbourne Road, Fairfield Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, noon to 4 p m Wednesday to Sunday Info: 707-389-4815, www tastesonomaharvest com

Suisun Creek Winery: Noon to 5 p m Saturday and Sunday, 2350 Morrison Lane, Fairfield Info: 805-704-2822, www suisuncreekwinery com

Sunset Cellars: Noon to 5 p m Wednesday through Sunday, noon to 6 p m Friday and Saturday, 4495 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield Info: 415-566-2910, sunsetcellars com

Tenbrink Vineyards: By appointment only, 4185 Chadbourne Road, Fairfield Info: 707-480-7334, www tenbrinkvineyards com

Tolenas Vineyards and Winery: 11 a m to 4 p m Friday through Monday, 4185 Chadbourne Road, Fairfield Info: 707-372-1434 www tolenaswinery com

Vezer Family Vineyard: Vezer Family Vineyard: By appointment, Mankas Gardens, 2522 Mankas Corner Road, Fairfield, 707-428-3958; Blue Victorian, 5071 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield, 707-422-8025 www vezerfamilyvineyard com

Village 360: 8 a m to 5 p m daily, 4949 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield Info: 707-863-0646, https:// village-360 com

Wooden Valley Winery: 10 a m to 5 p m daily, 4756 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield Info: 707-864-0730, www woodenvalley com

For more on Suisun Valley, visit www.suisunvalley.com

Tours

Jelly Belly: 1 Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield Info: 707-3992390, www jellybelly com/california-visitors-center

Lucky Ones Ranch: Public and private tours to meet animals who were neglected, abused or no longer wanted in rural Vacaville Info: www lucky onesranch org

Menagerie Hill Ranch: Private tours by appointment only to see, feed and meet alpacas in rural Vacaville Info: www menageriehillranch com

Theater alive, well in Solano

TONY WADE FOR THE DAILY REPUBLIC

Ihave been writing reviews of local theatrical productions for the Daily Republic since 2006. What it clearly shows is that there are a lot of live theater choices in Solano County.

One thing I’ve never done is give a rundown of the all-time favorite shows I have had the pleasure to experience from numerous talented local troupes. So today, I offer a brief reflection on what made each my fave and include several honor able mentions.

In my near two decades of reviewing theater, several companies who staged stellar shows either folded or have taken prolonged hiatuses. They include Vallejo Music Theatre, Ivory Arts, Solano Repertory Company, Fairfield Civic Theatre, Mira Theatre Guild and the Left Hand Theatre Company. Due to space constraints, I had to exclude theirs.

While the Daily Republic does not review high school productions, I have seen some over the years and included a few.

Solano County is blessed to have so much talent.

with profanity.

Missouri Street Theatre: “Les Miserables” (2013). Just incredible. The fact that when the barricade was revealed and the audience applauded – yes, we applauded a set – exemplified the meticulous top-to-bottom attention to detail that made the entire experience so special. The cast was spectacular. I saw it four times.

Honorable mentions: “Jesus Christ Superstar” (2016), “Bonnie & Clyde” (2015), “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” (2010), “Shrek The Musical” (2025), “The Secret Garden” (2023).

Solano College Theatre: “Noises Off” (2008). Directed by the late, great Carla Spindt, this was one of the funniest shows I’ve ever seen. It had slapstick, pantomime, sight gags and rapid-fire hilarity. I’ve been patiently waiting for someone to revive it. Don’t make me beg.

Honorable mentions: “The Producers” (2010), “Spring Awakening” (2016), “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” (2018), “Anything Goes” (2024).

Bay Area Stage Productions: “Cat on a Hot Tin Roof” (2022). Sex, lies, death and the power of vast sums of money to influence it all are just some of the themes that were explored in this gritty, riveting, visceral piece with sparkling dialogue sometimes peppered

Honorable mentions: “Buried Child” (2010), “The Graduate” (2017), “Kiss of the Spider Woman” (2010), “The 39 Steps” (2025), “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” (2016).

On The Fringe Visual and Performing Arts: “The Laramie Project” (2016). The story of the brutal murder of openly gay 21-year old University of Wyoming student Matthew Shepard was poignant, complex, layered, wrenching, transcendent and unforgettable. It definitely affected me more profoundly than any other show I have ever seen.

Honorable mentions: “God of Carnage” (2015), “The Bad Seed” (2016), “Cock” (2016).

Benicia Theatre Group: “Intimate Apparel” (2017). For a show to succeed, you need to have talented players and “Intimate Apparel” certainly did, and it helped tremendously that the playground they were gifted to perform in was a clever, multi-level, five-stagesin-one wonder.

Honorable mentions: “Fences” (2010), “The Game’s Afoot” (2016), “Having a Wonderful Time, Wish You Were Her” (2017), “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” (2011).

Gaslighters Theatrical Company: “Trouble at the Tropicana” (2011). The Gaslighters have pulled off some hilarious murder whodunits and this one earned a chef’s kiss. It was a spoof of “I Love Lucy,” and Annie Morris was pitch-perfect as Lucy Bacardi with her Cuban

CONTACT INFO

Missouri Street Theatre 1035 Texas St., Fairfield www.downtowntheatre.com 707-940-0700

Solano College Theatre

4000 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield www.solanocollegetheatre.org 707-864-7100

Bay Area Stage Productions 515 Broadway H, Vallejo www.bayareastage.org 707-649-1053

On The Fringe Visual and Performing Arts

734 Marin St., Vallejo www.onthefringevapa.org artteacherstats@gmail.com

Benicia Theatre Group 140 W. J St., Benicia www.beniciatheatregroup.org 707-746-1269

husband Ricky (Oz Angst).

Honorable mentions: “Murder on the Oriental Rug” (2016), “Last Call at Chez Mort (2012), “Eat, Drink and Be Murdered” (2012).

Armijo Theatre Productions: “Almost Maine” (2016). I had seen a production of this show three years earlier by Solano Repertory Company and absolutely loved the playfulness, sincerity and heart and was impressed by the wonderful performances by these adolescent thespians.

Honorable mention: “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” (2016).

Fairfield High School Way Off Broadway Theatre: “Anne Frank and Me” (2017). I was intrigued by this story that attempted to both humanize and personalize the Anne Frank story. The whole cast was dialed in and made it a success.

Honorable mention: “Once Upon a Mattress” (2013).

Benicia High School Theatre Department: “Xanadu” (2015). Before super talented director Christine Mani brought her talents to Solano College Theatre, she held the reins at Benicia High. “Xanadu” was uproariously funny, clever and delightfully self-aware. The intricate costumes, eye-popping set, cool props and wonderful acting and singing made the whole show ... like the Olivia Newton-John song “Magic.”

Honorable mention: “The Elephant Man” (2013).

Gaslighters

Theatrical Company www.gaslighterstheatrical.com 707-628-3737

Armijo Theatre Productions www.onthestage.tickets/ armijo-high-school1 sheenab@fsusd.org

Fairfield High School

205 E. Atlantic Ave., Fairfield www.fsusd.org/o/fhs 707-438-3000

Benicia High School Theatre Department 1101 Military W., Benicia https://bhs.beniciaunified.org 707-747-8325

Movie theaters offer options to catch a flick

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Wovie theaters provide a cool retreat from the summer heat and a great place for date night.

Fairfield and Vacaville boast 16 screens each. Vallejo has 14 screens for your viewing pleasure.

Solano County movie theaters are:

Brenden Vacaville 16: 531 Davis St Vacaville Info: 707-469-0180, www brendentheatres com

Century 14: Gateway Plaza Center, 109 Plaza Drive, Vallejo Info: 707-553-1205, www cinemark com/theatres/ca-vallejo/ cinemark-century-vallejo-14

Edwards Fairfield Stadium 16: Solano Town Center mall, 1549 Gateway Blvd , Fairfield Info: 800-326-3264, www regmovies com/theatres/ regal-edwards-fairfield-1046

The Empress Theatre: 330 Virginia St , Vallejo Shows movies as part of their film club and other events Info: www empresstheatre org

Museums, galleries showcase art, Solano County history

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Solano County provides plenty of venues for getting your art fix or learning a little history.

The art lover will find plenty of places to visit as well as the history lover.

Local museums and art galleries include:

American Armory Museum: 10 a m to 3 p m Wednesday through Saturday, 4144 Abernathy Road, Fairfield 707-389-6846, www americanarmory museum org

Arts Benicia Gallery: 1 to 5 p m Thursday through Sunday, during exhibitions, 991 Tyler St , Suite 114, Benicia 707-747-0131, www artsbenicia org

Benicia Capitol State Historic Park: 10 a m to 5 p m Friday through Sunday, 115 W G St 707-745-3385, www parks ca gov/?page_id=475

Benicia Plein Air Gallery: 11 a m to 5 p m Thursday through Sunday, 307 First St 707-746-6211, www beniciapleinair com

El Comalito Collective: 10 a m to 2 p m Saturday, 302 Georgia St , Vallejo 707-278-4002, www elcomalitocollective com

Fairfield Arts: 11 a m to 6 p m Tuesday through

Saturday, 710 Jackson St , Fairfield 707-430-5352, www fairfield-arts com

Gallery 621: 11 a m to 5 p m Thursday through Sunday, 309 First St , Benicia 707-746-6211, www gallery621 com

Jelly Belly Museum: 9 a m to 4 p m daily except holidays One Jelly Belly Lane, Fairfield www jellybelly com

Marilyn Citron O’Rourke Gallery: 10 a m to 9 p m Monday through Thursday, noon to 6 p m Friday through Sunday, 150 E L St , Benicia www benicialibrary org

Mare Island Historic Park Foundation: 10 a m to 2 p m Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 1100 Railroad Ave , Mare Island, Vallejo 707-280-5742, www mihpf org

Museum of History Benicia: 10 a m to 4 p m

Wednesday through Friday, 1 to 4 p m Saturday and Sundays, 2060 Camel Road 707-745-5435, https://mohbenicia org

Peña Adobe/Mowers Goheen Museum: 11 a m to 2 p m first Saturday of the month, 1 Pena Adobe Road, Vacaville 707-447-0518, www penaadobe org

Rio Vista Museum: 1:30 to 4:30 p m Saturday and Sunday, 16 N Front St 707-374-5169, riovistamuseum com

Rowland Freedom Center: 10 a m to 4 p m daily, Nut Tree Airport, 300 County Airport Road, Suite C4, Vacaville 707-449-3402, www rowlandfreedom center org

Solano Community College Dorothy Herger Gallery: 10 a m to 4 p m Monday through Friday, Saturday by appointment, 4000 Suisun Valley Road, Room 1304, Fairfield www solano edu/liberal_arts/herger

Solano Town Center Gallery: 11 a m to 6 p m Wednesday through Sunday, 1350 Travis Blvd , Suite D8, Fairfield www fvaa-arts org

Travis AFB Aviation Museum: 10 a m to 4 p m Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a m to 3 p m Sunday, 461 Burgan Blvd (Building 80), Travis Air Force Base Call before arriving 707-424-5833, www travisafbaviation museum org

Vacaville Art Gallery: Noon to 4 p m Friday and Saturday, 11 a m to 3 p m Sunday, 718 E Monte Vista Ave 707-448-8712, www vacavilleartgallery org

Vacaville Museum: 1 to 4:30 p m Thursday and Friday; 10 a m to 4:30 p m Saturdays 213 Buck Ave 707-447-4513, www vacavillemuseum org

Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum: Noon to 4 p m Tuesday through Friday, 10 a m to 4 p m Saturday, 734 Marin St , Vallejo 707-643-0077, www vallejomuseum org

Village 360 Gallery: 11 a m to 5 p m , daily, 4949 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield, 707-863-0646, www fvaa-arts org/village-360-gallery

Western Railway Museum: 9:30 a m to 3 p m Thursday, 9:30 a m to 2:30 p m Friday, 9:30 a m to 4:30 p m Saturdays and 9:30 a m to 4 p m Sundays (summer hours), 5848 Highway 12, Suisun City 707-374-2978, www wrm org

Farmers markets offer fresh food choices

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

hy get your dinner out of a can when there are so many farmers markets and produce stands to get healthy, fresh produce?

Solano County and the surrounding areas shows off their agricultural bounty with a healthy crop of farmers markets from Dixon to Vallejo that offer a wide selection of the county’s produce – from peaches to tomatoes to delicious kettle corn.

Some are available year-round while others open in the spring and wrap up their seasons

The freshness and variety of what farmers markets can offer just cannot be beat.

The local markets are:

Fairfield Farmers Market Thursdays on the Green: 3 to 7 p m Thursdays, May to September 600 Texas St Info: www fairfield ov/our-city/city-events/fairfield-farmers-market

8 a m to noon Saturdays, year round Creekwalk Plaza in Andrews Park Info: https://downtown om/farmers-market

m to 2 p m Saturdays, year-round Info: https://www pcfma org/vallejo

Benicia’s Certified Farmers Market: 4 to 8 p m Thursdays, April through August, 4 to 7 p September through October First Street between B and D streets Info: www benicia mainstreet org

Rio Vista Certified Farmers Market: 4 to 7 p m first and third Thursdays, May through October Main Street, between Second and Third streets Info: https://www rvfarmersmarket com

Kaiser Vacaville - Gold Country Certified Farmers Market: 9:30 a m to 1:30 p m Tuesdays, year-round, 1 Quality Drive

Kaiser Vallejo Certified Farmers Market: 9 a m to 2 p m Fridays, year-round, 975 Sereno St

Suisun City Waterfront Farmers Market: noon to 4 p m Sundays, May through September 1 Harbor Plaza Info: www suisun com/ events-directory/suisun-city-waterfront-farmer% E2%80%99s-market

The local produce stands include: Cal Yee Farms: 5158 Clayton Road, Fairfield 8 a m to 5 p m Monday to Friday, year-round Info: 1-800-225-9337, www calyeefarm com

Dixon Fruit Market: 7808 Batavia Road 7:30 a m to 7:30 p m Monday to Sunday, year-round Info: 707-678-4211, https://www dixonfruitmarket com

Larry’s Produce: 4606 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield 9 a m to 5 p m daily, beginning in June Closed Wednesdays Info : www larrysproduce com

Pedrick Produce: 6850 Sievers Road, Dixon 7 a m to 7:30 p m daily, year-round Info: 707-768-1814, https://pedrick produce com

Robledo Produce: 4300 Russell Road, Fairfield 9 a m to 5 p m daily, May to October

Saechao Family Farm: 2707 Rockville Road, Suisun Valley 7 a m to 7 p m daily, through fall Info : 707-422-6357

Vacaville Fruit Company: 2055 Cessna Drive, Suite 200 Info : 9 a m to 4 p m Monday to Thursday, 9 a m to 3 p m Friday Info: 707-448-5292, www vacavillefruit com

Come and visit our booth at Downtown Vacav ille’s Farmer’s Market on Saturdays, May 11-Oct 26 from 8am to 12pm. Located at Andrews Park, 614 East Monte Vista Avenue.

Strong schools the lifeblood of Solano

ne of the primary influences for choosing a place to live, particularly for families with young children, is the quality of education available.

As far as Solano County is concerned, the quality of education at all levels is generally strong. Most of the schools in the Fairfield-Suisun School District, for example, are at or above statewide targets for schools with a similar makeup of student bodies.

The same holds true for the school districts in Vacaville and Travis, with each of these having a particularly healthy collection of elementary schools.

The Benicia district and Dixon district, each representing smaller communities, have high-performing schools throughout different levels.

The Vallejo school district that are recognized within the statewide ranking system. Nevertheless, many of the Vallejo schools are on par or above similar schools throughout the state.

garten programs, which is a lengthier kindergarten day aimed at expanding the fundamental skills that can be taught to students in a kindergarten setting.

Their efforts are earning statewide recognition. For example, six Solano County schools earned the state’s Gold Ribbon award for 2016-2017, just two short of the eight earned by schools in Sacramento County, a county with

three times the population of Solano.

A major issue facing districts throughout the state is a teacher shortage. Budget cutbacks stalled the ability to hire new teachers for a number of years. On top of that, due to budget cutbacks, many districts were forced to lay off teachers just starting out in their careers.

The Vacaville School District has hired 75 teachers since July 1, 2021. The Fairfield School District has brought in 223 from Aug 1, 2021, to the present.

Solano school districts have done a better job than most throughout the state of filling this void. Solano school districts have hired more than 200 new teachers since 2015, which is nearly twice the number hired by districts in Merced County, for instance, a county with roughly the same number of enrolled students.

Plenty of public schools in Solano County

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Solano County has many public schools. Public schools throughout Solano County include:

Dixon Unified School District

Linford L. Anderson Elementary

415 E. C St.

707-693-6360

www.dixonusd.org/anderson

Principal: Mele Blackstone

Gretchen Higgins Elementary 1525 Pembroke Way

707-678-6271

www.dixonusd.org/higgins

Principal: Gina Llamas-Cruz

Tremont Elementary 355 Pleasant Run Drive

707-678-6320

www.dixonusd.org/tremont

Principal: Treva Foster

John Knight Middle School

455 E. A St.

707-693-6350

www.dixonusd.org/jkms

Principal: Bob Bugalski

Dixon High School

555 College Way

707-693-6330

www.dixonusd.org/dhs

Principal: Angela Brown

Maine Prairie High School

305 E. C St.

707-693-6340

www.dixonusd.org/mphs

Principal: Angelina Arias

Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District

Anna Kyle Elementary 1600 Kidder Ave.

707-421-4105

www.fsusd.org/kyle

Principal: Veronica Carrasco

B. Gale Wilson K-8 School 3301 Cherry Hills Court

707-421-4225

www.fsusd.org/wilson

Principal: Mirel Rivera

Cleo Gordon Elementary 1950 Dover Ave.

707-421-4125

www.fsusd.org/gordon

Principal: Dalal Mansour

Cordelia Hills Elementary

4770 Canyon Hills Drive

707-864-1905

www.fsusd.org/o/ches

Principal: Megan Thole

Crescent Elementary

1001 Anderson Drive

707-435-2771

www.fsusd.org/crescent

Principal: Jodie Phan

Dan O. Root II Elementary 820 Harrier Drive

707-421-4240

www.fsusd.org/root

Principal: Larissa Sherrod

David A. Weir K-8 Preparatory Academy

1975 Pennsylvania Ave., Fairfield 707-399-3300

www.fsusd.org/weir

Principal: Alison Guernsey

Dover Academy of International Studies

205 E. Atlantic Ave., Fairfield

707-438-3067

www.fsusd.org/dover

Principal: Vickie Johnson

Fairview Elementary 830 First St., Fairfield

707-421-4165

www.fsusd.org/fairview

Principal: Candace Wills

H. Glenn Richardson Educational Complex 1069 Meadowlark Drive, Fairfield

707-420-2300

www.fsusd.org/richardson

Principal: Gary Hiner

K.I. Jones Elementary

2001 Winston Drive

707-421-4195

www.fsusd.org/jones

Principal: Krista Nichols

Laurel Creek Elementary 2900 Gulf Drive

707-421-4291

www.fsusd.org/o/lces

Principal: Lucius McKelvy

Nelda Mundy Elementary 570 Vintage Valley Drive, Fairfield 707-421-4291

www.fsusd.org/mundy

Principal: Julie Smith

Oakbrook Academy of the Arts

700 Oakbrook Drive, Fairfield

707-863-7930

www.fsusd.org/oakbrook

Principal: Aimee McGinty

Rolling Hills Elementary 2025 Fieldcrest Ave., Fairfield

707-399-9566

www.fsusd.org/rollinghills

Principal: Danny Gentry

Sheldon Academy of Innovative Learning 1901 Woolner Ave., Fairfield 707-421-4150

www.fsusd.org/sheldon

Principal: Lisa Lewis

Suisun Elementary 725 Golden Eye Way, Suisun City 707-421-4210

www.fsusd.org/suisun

Principal: Dr. Cathy Chan

Suisun Valley K-8 School

4985 Lambert Road, Fairfield 707-421-4338

www.fsusd.org/suisunvalley

Interim principal: Tessa Pryor

Sullivan Language Immersion Academy

2195 Union Ave., Fairfield 707-590-9839

www.fsusd.org/o/slia

Principal: Daniel Garcia

Tolenas Academy of Music and Media 4500 Tolenas Road, Fairfield 707-421-4350

www.fsusd.org/tolenas

Principal: Lisa Juchcinski-Davis

Crystal Middle School

400 Whispering Bay Lane, Suisun City 707-435-5800

www.fsusd.org/crystal

Principal: Karina Colantoni

Grange Middle School

1975 Blossom Ave., Fairfield 707-421-4175

www.fsusd.org/grange

Principal: Heather Oja

Green Valley Middle School

1350 Gold Hill Road, Fairfield 707-848-7000

www.fsusd.org/greenvalley

Principal: Stephen Trotter

Public Safety Academy

230 Atlantic Ave., Fairfield 707-421-3933

www.fsusd.org/fspsa

Assistant Principal: Jason Fischer

Armijo High School

824 Washington St., Fairfield 707-438-3378

www.fsusd.org/armijo

Principal: Matt Powell

Fairfield High School

205 E. Atlantic Ave., Fairfield 707-438-3000

www.fsusd.org/fairfield

Principal: Rebecca Campion

Angelo Rodriguez High School

5000 Red Top Road, Fairfield 707-863-7950

www.fsusd.org/rodriguez

Principal: Kristen Cherry

Matt Garcia Career and College Academy

230 Atlantic Ave., Fairfield

707-421-4200

www.fsusd.org/garcia

Principal: Shabana Johnson

Independent Study

205 E. Atlantic Ave., Fairfield

707-421-4271

www.fsusd.org

Sem Yeto High School

205 E. Alaska Ave., Fairfield

707-421-4271

www.fsusd.org/semyetohs

Principal: John McMorris

Sem Yeto High - Satellite 824 Washington St., Fairfield

707-421-4271

www.fsusd.org/semyetohs

Fairfield-Suisun Adult School

900 Travis Blvd., Fairfield

707-421-4155

www.fsusd.org/fsas

Principal: Elizabeth Kolakoski

River Delta Unified School District

D.H. White Elementary School

500 Elm Way, Rio Vista 707-374-5335

www.rdusd.org/schools/ dh-white-elementaryschool/index

Principal: Jenny Gornto

Riverview Middle School

525 S. Second St., Rio Vista 707-374-2345

www.rdusd.org/schools/ riverview-middle-school

Principal: Kristin Rodriguez

Rio Vista High School

410 S. Fourth St., Rio Vista 707-374-6336

www.rdusd.org/schools/ rio-vista-high-school/index

Principal: Noelle Nelson

River Delta High/ Elementary School

525 S. Second St., Rio Vista 707-374-1730

https://www.rdusd.org/ schools/river-delta-elementa ry-%E2%80%8Bhighschool/index

Principal: Vanessa Cron

Wind River Adult Education

525 S. Second St., Rio Vista 707-374-1730

www.rdusd.org/schools/ wind-river-adult-education

Principal: Katherine Wright

Travis Unified School District

Cambridge Elementary

100 Cambridge Drive, Vacaville 707-446-9494

https://cambridge. travisusd.org

Principal: Primal Dhillon

Center Elementary

3101 Markeley Lane, Fairfield 707-437-4621

https://center.travisusd.org

Principal: Jennifer Greenway

Foxboro Elementary

600 Morning Glory Drive, Vacaville

707-447-7883

https://foxboro.travisusd.org

Principal: Kristyn Andrews

Scandia Elementary

100 Broadway, Travis Air Force Base

707-437-4691

https://scandia.travisusd.org

Principal: Jen Buzolich

Travis Elementary

100 Hickam Ave., Travis Air Force Base

707-437-2070 www.travisusd.org/ traviselementary

Principal: Lindsey Dalske

Golden West Middle School 2651 DeRonde Drive, Fairfield 707-437-8240

https://goldenwest. travisusd.org

Principal: Brian Howard

Travis Education Center 2775 DeRonde Drive, Fairfield 707-437-8265

https://tec.travisusd.org

Principal: Janelle Preston

Vanden High School

2951 Markeley Lane, Fairfield 707-437-7333

www.travisusd.org/vanden

Principal: Kristin Shields

Vacaville Unified School District

Alamo Elementary

500 S. Orchard Ave. 707-453-6200

https://alamo.vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Derek Wickliff

Browns Valley Elementary 333 Wrentham Drive 707-453-6205

https://brownsvalley. vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Traci White

Jean Callison Elementary 6261 Vanden Road

707-453-6250

https://callison. vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Kacey Ramos

Cooper Elementary 750 Christine Drive 707-453-6210

https://cooper.vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Samantha Chizauskie

Fairmont Charter Elementary 1355 Marshall Road 707-453-6240

https://fairmont. vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Shayla Bowman

Hemlock Elementary

400 Hemlock St. 707-453-6245

https://hemlock. vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Nicole Bandy

Edwin Markham Elementary

101 Markham Ave. 707-453-6230

https://markham. vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Teresa Barron

Orchard Elementary

805 N. Orchard Ave. 707-453-6255

https://orchard. vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Anne Silva

Eugene Padan Elementary

200 Padan School Road 707-453-6235

https://padan.vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Cicely Rodda

Kairos Public School

Vacaville Academy

129 Elm St. 707-453-7234

www.kairospublicschools.org

Principal: Jared Austin

Willis Jepson Middle School

580 Elder St. 707-453-6280

https://jepson.vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Melissa Mainini

Vaca Pena Middle School

200 Keith Way 707-453-6270

https://vacapena. vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Colleen Moe

Buckingham Collegiate

Charter Academy

100 McClellan St. 707-453-7300

https://buckingham. vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Samantha Working

Vacaville High School

100 W. Monte Vista Ave. 707-453-6011

https://vhs.vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Adam Wight

Will C. Wood High School 998 Marshall Road 707-453-6900

https://wcw.vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Charleston Brown

Muzetta Thrower Adult

Education Center

188-B Bella Vista Road 707-453-6018

https://adulted. vacavilleusd.org

Principal: Tiffany Donahue

Vacaville Independent Study Program

188 Bella Vista Road, Suite A 707-453-7308

www.vacavilleusd.org/ schools/special_enrollment_ for_charters_programs

School officials

Who they are, how to contact them

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Central and eastern Solano County school districts and contact information:

Dixon Unified School District

Phone: 707-678-5582

Website: www dixonusd org

Superintendent: Brett Barley, 707-693-6300, ext 8033, cbernhardt@dixonusd org SCHOOL BOARD

President: Julian Cuevas, Elected in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at julian cuevas@dixonusd org

Vice president: Regina Espinoza, Elected in 2016, term expires in 2028 Reach at regina espinoza@ dixonusd org

Clerk: Jewel Fink Elected in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at jewel fink@dixonusd org

Member: John Gabby, Elected in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at john gabby@dixonusd org

Member: Robert Sanchez, Elected 2024, term expires in 2028 Reach at robert sanchez@dixonusd org

Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District

Phone: 707-399-5009

Website: www fsusd org

Superintendent: Jennifer Sachs, 707-399-5009, coinfo@fsusd org

SCHOOL BOARD

President: Ana Petero, Elected in 2020, term expires 2028 Reach at anapetero@fsusd org

Vice President: Jack Flynn Elected in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at jackf@fsusd org

Clerk: Helen Tilley, Elected in 2020, term expires in 2028 Reach at HelenT@fsusd org

Member: Craig Wilson Elected in 2022, term expires 2026 Reach at craigw@fsusd org

Member: Brigette Hunley Elected in 2024, term expires 2028 Reach at brigetteh@fsusd org

Member: Nikki Parr Elected in 2024, term expires 2026 Reach at nikkipa@fsusd org

Member: Alonso Duarte Elected in 2024, term expires 2028 Reach at AlonsoD@fsusd org

River Delta Unified School District

Phone: 707-374-1700

Website: www rdusd org

Superintendent: Kathrine Wright, 707-374-1700, SEE OFFICIALS, PAGE 26

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Kindergarten is a time of transition for children and their parents. This coming school year will probably pose some extra steps for school. It is best to contact the districts and find out what will be needed.

Here is a list of suggestions for getting started:

• Find a school: A child’s school is typically determined by where his or her family lives. Some districts post

maps online to help parents locate their school. But if parents have questions, they can call the district to make certain they have selected the proper one.

• Verify residency: Parents must prove a child is eligible to attend the school where they are registered. To do this, parents need to provide two of three things: a property tax payment receipt, rent payment receipt or valid property rental contract; a PG&E bill or receipt, deed or closing papers on home purchase; a declaration of

residency executed by the student’s parent or guardian.

• Confirm age: A birth certificate showing a child is the minimum age to attend kindergarten is required. The minimum age is a child turning 5 on or before Sept. 1 for the 2021-22 school year. However, there are exceptions.

• Get shots: Parents need to provide an immunization record proving a child is current on vaccinations. Parents should check directly with school districts if they wish to opt out.

Private schools offer alternative options

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Private schools in Solano County offer learning for all grades at different costs. Class sizes vary yearly and those listed are estimates for the current year.

Schools are located in Fairfield, Suisun City and Vacaville. They include:

Bethany Lutheran 1011 Ulatis Drive, Vacaville

707-451-6683

www.gobethany.com

Preschool through eighth grade

Tuition: Tiered price system, check

website for pricing

Principal: Alex Poole

About 200 students

Holy Spirit

1050 N. Texas St., Fairfield 707-422-5016

www.hsschool.org

Kindergarten through eighth grade

Tuition: $6,447 per year for church members; $7,800 per year for nonmembers

Principal: Tricia Fey 290 students

Neighborhood Christian

655 S. First St., Dixon 707-678-9336

www.neighborhoodchristian.org

Preschool through eighth grade

Tuition: Call for information

Principal: Mica Seibert

97 students

Notre Dame Catholic 1781 Marshall St., Vacaville 707-447-1460

www.notredamevacaville.org

Kindergarten through eighth grade

Tuition: $6,738 per year for church members; $7,925 per year for nonmembers

Principal: Meghann Bauer 358 students

Solano Christian Academy

2200 Fairfield Ave., Fairfield 707-425-7715

www.solanocenter.org/ solanochristianacademy

Preschool through eighth grade

Tuition: One child $7,399

Principal: John Reed 100 students

Spectrum Center Inc., Solano Campus 5090 Central Way Suite 200, Fairfield 707-864-0438

www.spectrumschools.com/ location/solano

Director: Tanisha Williams Serves students with disabilities age 4 to 22

Tuition: Free (paid for by the school district that refers the student)

40 to 50 students

Vacaville Christian Academy 1117 Davis St., Vacaville 707-446-1776

www.go-vcs.com

Infant through 12th grade

Head of School: Ben Davis

Tuition: Check website

1,000 students

Preschools get youths off to good start

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Looking for the right preschool for children can be a challenge. Central and eastern Solano County have a variety of choices in each community to help students start learning.

Here are the region’s options.

Dixon

Bert and Ernie’s Preschool

255 N. Lincoln St. 707-678-4440

Website: https://bertanderniepreschooldixon.com

Neighborhood Christian School 955 E. A St. 707-678-9336

Website: www.neighborhood christian.org

Fairfield

Anna Kyle State Preschool 1600 Kidder Ave.

707-438-7210

Website: www.fsusd.org/kyle

Oakbrook State Preschool

700 Oakbrook Drive

707-863-7907

Website: www.fsusd. org/oakbrook

Circle of Friends

3330 Dover Ave. 707-425-2717

Website: www.circleof friendscdc.com

Fairfield Montessori 1101 Utah St. 707-427-1442

Website: www.fairfield montessoripreschool.com

Fairfield-Suisun Child Development Center 830 First St. 707-428-7214

H. Glenn Richardson Child Development Center 1069 Meadowlark Drive 707-426-4749

Website: www.fsusd.org/o/hgr

Head Start/Kidder 1657 Kidder Ave. 707-427-7300

Voted the Best Furniture Store in Solano County

Preschool

From Page 25

Head Start/Sunset Creek

840 E. Travis Blvd.

707-427-7300

Head Start/Tabor

83 Tabor Ave.

707-427-7300

Head Start/Travis

2 Illinois St., Suite 2

707-427-7300

Head Start/Woolner 1406 Woolner Ave.

707-427-7300

Kindercare 1611 Woodcreek Drive

707-426-2275

Website: www.kindercare.com/ our-centers/fairfield/ca/301034

St. Mark’s Preschool

1600 Union Ave.

707-422-4742

Website: www.stmarksfairfield. org/preschool

Solano Christian Academy 2200 Fairfield Ave.

707-422-4788

Website: www.solanochristian academy.org

Solano Community College

Children’s Program 4000 Suisun Valley Road

707-864-7183

Website: https://welcome. solano.edu/elc-homepage

Rio

Vista

Children’s Christian Center 125 Sierra Ave. 707-374-6841

Suisun City

Head Start

725 Golden Eye Way

707-427-6135

Vacaville

Fairview Elementary preschooler Jazlyn Romero opens a gift during a Christmas party.

Presbyterian Enrichment Preschool (Mother’s Day Out)

Officials

From Page 24

katherinewright@gmail com

SCHOOL BOARD

President: Marcial Lamera Elected in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at marcialdelta@gmail com

Vice president: Jennifer Stone Elected in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at jenstone@rdusd org

Clerk: Randall Jelly Elected in 2020, term expires in 2028 Reach at rjelly@rdusd org

Member: Vincent Lopex Elected in 2024, term expires in 2026 Reach at vincente1967@rymail com

expires in 2026 Reach at mtbidou@travisusd org

Vice president: Will Wade, Elected in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at wwade@travisusd org

Clerk: Tierra Ekstrom Elected 2024, term expires in 2028 Reach at tekstrom@travisusd org

Member: Brenda DaPrato Elected in 2024, term expires 2028 Reach at bdaprato@travisusd org

Member: Suzanne Schwartz Elected in 2024, term expires 2028 Reach at sschwartz@travisusd org

Vacaville Unified School District

Phone: 707-453-6117

Website: www vacavilleusd org

Superintendent: Ed Santopadre, 707-453-6100, eds@vacavilleusd org

Bethany Lutheran Preschool 621 S. Orchard Ave.

707-451-6678

Website: www.gobethany. com/preschool

Head Start/Larsen 1707 California Drive, Room 3 707-449-0891

Head Start/Mariposa 1 and 2 1625 Alamo Drive 707-427-7300

Head Start/Markham 101 Markham Ave. 707-427-7300

Head Start/Padan 100 Padan School Road 707-446-0595

425 Hemlock St. 707-448-1626

Website: www.community presbyterian.com/pep-school

Orchard Avenue Baptist Preschool 301 N. Orchard Ave. 707-448-5868

Website: www.mylittle orchard.org

Shepherd of the Hills Preschool 580 Trinity Drive 707-447-6278

Website: www.soth preschool.com

Vacaville Christian Academy 1117 Davis St. 707-446-1776

Website: www.go-vcs.com

Member: Wanda Apel Elected in 2020, term expires in 2028 Reach at wandaapel4467@ comcast net

Member: Dan Mahoney Appointed in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at mahoney dan18@gmail com

Member: Suzanne Wilson Elected in 2024, term expires in 2028 Reach at sm1103@yahoo com

Travis Unified School District

Phone: 707-437-4604

Website: www travisusd org

Superintendent: Tiffany Benson, 707-437-4604, ext: 1210, tbenson@travisusd org

SCHOOL BOARD

President: Matthew Bidou, Elected in 2022, term

SCHOOL BOARD

President: Nancy Dunn Elected in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at nancydunn@ vacavilleusd org

Vice president: Santiago Serrato Appointed in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at santiago wserrato@vacavilleusd org

Clerk: Amy Tran Russell Elected in 2024, term expires in 2028 Reach at amytranrussell@ vacavilledusd org

Member: Daniel Garcia Elected in 2024, term expires 2028 Reach at danielgarcia@ vacavilleusd org

Member: John Jansen Elected in 2022, term expires in 2026 Reach at johnjansen@ vacavilleusd org

Member: Audra Orr Elected in 2024, term expires in 2028 Reach at aorr@vacavilleusd org

SCC offers local higher education

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

olano Community College was established in 1945 as Vallejo Junior College offering general education courses and some vocational programs to the residents of Solano County and the city of Winters in neighboring Yolo County.

Since then, the district has grown to include the main campus in Fairfield and centers in Vacaville and Vallejo, and offers more than 80 certificates, associate degrees, and degrees to transfer to California State University and University of California campuses.

Solano Community College is one of two California community colleges to offer a bachelor of science degree in biomanufacturing. The college partners with Sonoma State University to offer bachelor degrees completion programs in liberal arts and business and with Sacramento State University to complete a bachelor’s degree in child and adolescent development.

Solano County residents can complete a four-year degree without leaving the area.

The 192-acre main campus on Suisun Valley Road in Fairfield was completed in 1971 and has grown to include a state-of-the-art Science Building and Veterans Resource Center, Library and Learning Resource Center, and a Simulation Lab for Nursing and Emergency Medical Technician programs.

The Vallejo Center offers general education courses and houses a computer lab for the graphic design and illustration degree. The Automotive Technology Center located at Ascot and Turner Parkway provides instruction and lets students explore working with Mercedes-Benz, Honda and Subaru through college and automotive dealer partnerships.

The Vacaville Center houses the biotechnology and biomanufacturing center where students can complete ready-to-work certificates and associate and bachelor degrees in biomanufacturing. Classes are also offered at Travis Air Force Base.

The Fairfield campus hosts the Fairfield-Suisun school district’s Early College High School program, giving

Plenty higher ed choices in area

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

The available colleges for area residents to pursue a higher education degree in or near Solano County is plentiful.

The colleges give prospective students the opportunity to initiate higher education, pad their resumes by expanding their knowledge, update an existing degree, learn a vocational trade or increase their current upper education degrees by obtaining a master’s or doctorate.

A list of the upper education institutions are:

California State University, Maritime Academy: 200 Maritime Academy Drive, Vallejo 707-654-1000, www csum edu

California State University, Sacramento: 6000 J St , Sacramento 916-278-3901, www csus edu

College of Continuing Education, California State University, Sacramento: 3000 State University Drive East, Sacramento 916-278-4433, www cce csus edu

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: Travis Air Force Base campus, 530 Hickam Ave , Building 249, Suite 30, Travis Air Force Base 707-437-5464, https:// worldwide erau edu/locations/travis Napa Valley College: 2277 Napa-Vallejo Highway, Napa 707-253-3000, 800-826-1077, www napavalley edu

Solano Community College: Main campus: 4000 Suisun Valley Road, rural Fairfield, 707-864-7000; Vacaville Center: 2000 N Village Parkway, 707-446-2900; Vallejo Center: 545 Columbus Parkway, 707-642-8188 www solano edu

Touro University California: 1310 Johnson Lane, Mare Island 707-638-5200, www tu edu

University of California, Davis: 1 Shields Ave Davis 530-752-1011, www ucdavis edu

Solano home to 2 state prisons

DAILY

REPUBLIC STAFF DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Located in Vacaville are two prisons – California State Prison Solano and California Medical Facility.

CSP Solano is a medium-security facility located on 146 acres and has about 3,567 in-custody prisoners. It was originally designed to hold 2,594 inmates. Janan Cavagnolo has been the acting warden at California State Prison-Solano, since November 2024.

CSP Solano operates with roughly an annual $283.1 million budget, actual expenditures are $286.4 million as of March 2024.

The prison opened in 1984, it was administered by the warden of the California Medical Facility. In January 1992, the two prisons were separated administratively and a warden was assigned to each prison.

CSP Solano provides custody, treatment and rehabilitative programs for inmates. Being a programming institution, the prison offers a wide variety of rehabilitative opportunities, including academic programs.

CSP Solano also offers a wide variety of additional help and organizational programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, veterans services, Victim Offender Reconciliation Group and a prison outreach program.

The California Medical Facility was established in 1955 to care for the needs of the California prison population. The warden at CMF is Sircoya

Members of the Uncuffed team from “inside” and “outside” of California State Prison Solano pose for a group picture during the Uncuffed Podcast’s Audio Program Celebration at CSP Solano in Vacaville.

M. Williams, who took over in December 2024. CMF operates with roughly an annual $464 million budget and has more than 1,200 employees.

CMF was designed to house 2,319 inmates, it currently houses about 2,093 inmates. The prison includes a general acute-care hospital, a correctional treatment center, licensed elderly care unit, an inpatient and outpatient psychiatric facility –inmates are brought here from all over the state – a hospice for the terminally ill and the Department of Mental Health operates an acute care psychiatric hospital on the grounds.

CMF and CSP Solano both have visitor centers that provide visiting assistance to family members and friends of inmates that includes a

Solano Community College

Students: About 7,000 full and part time

From Page 27

selected students a tandem high school and college education. The program started in 2014 and now serves nearly 400 students who can complete their high school diploma and graduate with an associate degree.

The college offers ample opportunities for students to explore career education programs including welding, robotics, sports broadcasting, fire technology, nursing, emergency medical services, cosmetology and horticulture. Each summer, the college offers programs for eighth- through 12th grade students in cyber security, automotive, robotics, and welding as well as sports camps.

Prison facilities

Address: 2100 Peabody Road, Vacaville Phone: 707-451-0182

Website: http://cdcr ca gov

Size: 146 acres

Acting Warden: Jason Schultz

Total number of staff: About 1,035

Number of inmates: About 3,567

Annual operating budget: $283 1 million

California Medical Facility

Address: 1600 California Drive, Vacaville Phone: 707-448-6841

Warden: Sircoya M Williams

Total number of staff: About 1,200

Number of inmates: About 2,093

Annual operating budget: $464 million

sheltered place to wait before and after visits, transportation to and from local transit terminals, child care, clothing appropriate for visits on loan and information about local resources.

Locations: Fairfield main campus, 4000 Suisun Valley Road, Rockville (rural Fairfield), 707-864-7000; Vacaville Center, 2000 N Village Parkway, Vacaville, 707-4462900; Vallejo Center, 545 Columbus Parkway, Vallejo, 707-642-8188; Travis Air Force Base, 530 Hickam Ave , Building 249, Fairfield, 707-424-2431

Website: www solano edu

SOLANO COMMUNITY COLLEGE GOVERNING BOARD

President: Kellie Sims Butler, Kellie Butler@solano edu Superintendent

Member: Karimah Karah, J D , 415-250-1978 or karimah karah@solano edu Area 1 (Vallejo) Elected 2018, current term ends 2026

Member: A Marie Young, 707-552-6480 or amarie young@solano edu Area 2 (Vallejo) Elected 2006, current term ends 2026

Member: Rosemary Thurston, 707-643-2450 or rosemary thurston@solano edu Area 3 (Benicia, Vallejo, Suisun City) Elected 2008, current term ends 2028

Member: Denis Honeychurch, 707-429-3111 or denis honeychurch@solano edu Area 4 (Fairfield, Vacaville, Travis Air Force Base) Elected 1985, current term ends 2026

Member: Quinten R Voyce, 707-864-7299 or quinten voyce@solano edu Area 5 (Fairfield, Green Valley, Cordelia) Elected 2016, current term ends 2028

Member: Amber Cargo-Reed, 707-448-0110 or amber cargo-reed@solano edu Area 6 (Vacaville) Elected 2022, current term ends 2026

Member: Jacqui Nguyen Greer, jacqui nguyen@solano edu Area 7 (Vacaville, Dixon, Winters) Elected 2024, term ends 2028

Solano College continues to grow, thanks to the passage of Measure Q, a $348 million facilities bond. Completed bond projects include the new library,

performing arts center, science and Veterans Resource Center in Fairfield, the auto technology building in Vallejo and biotechnology facilities in

Vacaville, all of which have added more than 100,000 square feet of classroom and lab space across SCC’s three locations.

Justice buildings, county judges

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Hall of Justice: 600 Union Ave , Fairfield, https://solanofamilyjustice org/

Law and Justice Center: 530 Union Ave Fairfield, https://solanofamilyjustice org

Old Solano Courthouse: 580 Texas St , Fairfield, solano courts ca gov

Solano Justice Building: 321 Tuolumne St Vallejo, www solanocounty com

General information: 707-207-7300, www solano courts ca gov

Solano County judges

Judge Jeffrey C. Kauffman: Department 1 707-207-7301

Judge Daniel J. Healy: Department 2

707-561-7802

Judge Stephen Gizzi: Department 3 707-207-7303

Judge Marlo S. Nisperos: Department 4 707-207-7304

Judge Stephanie Grogan Jones: Department 5 707-207-7305

Judge Kelly J. Trujillo: Department 6 707-207-7306

Judge Tim P. Kam: Department 7 707-207-7307

Judge Wendy G. Getty: Department 8 707-207-7308

Judge Carlos R. Gutierrez: Department 9 707-207-7309

Judge Christine N. Donovan: Department 10 707-207-7310

Judge William J. Pendergast III: Department 11 707-207-7311

Judge Christine A. Carringer: Department 12 707-207-7312

Judge Shauna L. Chastain: Department 14

707-207-7314

Judge Bryan J. Kim: Department 15 707-561-7815

Judge Dora M. Rios: Department 16 707-207-7316

Judge Terrye D. Davis: Department 17 707-207-7317

Judge Amyra C. Cobb-Hampton: Department 18

707-207-7318

Commissioner David L. Haet: Department 20

707-207-7320

Commissioner Susan A. Rados: Department 21

707-207-7321

Judge Alesia Jones: Department 22

707-207-7322

Judge John B. Ellis: Department 23

707-207-7323

Commissioner Jennifer Proctor: Department 24

707-561-7824

Judge Janice M. Williams: Department 25

707-207-7325

Public safety agencies in Solano

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Solano County

Sheriff’s Office: 530 Union Ave., Suite 100, Fairfield, 707-7847000, www.solanocounty.gov/ government/sheriff-coroner

Animal Care Services: 707-784-1356, www. solanocounty.com/depts/ sheriff/animalcare/general_ information.asp

Animal Control Services: 707-784-4733, www. solanocounty.com/depts/ sheriff/animalcare/general_ information.asp

Marine Patrol: 707-784-1382, www.solanocounty.com/depts/ sheriff/special_teams/ marine_patrol.asp

Office of Emergency Services: 707-784-1600, www. solanocounty.com/depts/oes/

Justice Center Detention Facility: 530 Union Ave., Suite 100, Fairfield. 707-784-7100, www.solanocounty.com/depts/ sheriff/custody_division/ jail_visiting_information/ justice_center_detention_ facility.asp

Sentenced Detention Facility: 2500 Clay Bank Road, Fairfield. 707-784-7181, www. solanocounty.com/depts/ sheriff/custody_division/ jail_visiting_information/ sentenced_detention_ facility.asp

Stanton Correctional Facility: 2450 Clay Bank Road, Fairfield. 707-784-4830, www. solanocounty.com/depts/ sheriff/custody_division/ jail_visiting_information/ stanton_correctional_facility/ default.asp

Benicia

Fire Station 11: (Main Facility)

150 Military West

Phone: 707-746-4275

Fax: 707-745-4425

Website: www ci benicia

ca us/fire Fire Station 12

601 Hastings Drive

Phone: 707-746-4275

Fax: 707-745-4425

Benicia Police Department

200 E L St

Nonemergency: 707-745-3411

Fax: 707-746-0131

Website: www ci benicia

ca us/police

Dixon

Dixon Fire Department

205 Ford Way

Phone: 707-678-7060

Fax: 707-678-4251

Website: www cityofdixon us/departments/Fire

Dixon Police Department

201 W A St

Nonemergency: 707-678-7080

General information:

707-678-7070

Fax: 707-678-0954

Website: www dixonpolice org

Fairfield

Fairfield Fire Department

Fire Administration/ Station 37

1200 Kentucky St

707-428-7375

Fire Station 35

600 Lopes Road

707-429-8306

Fire Station 38

1633 Union Ave

Phone: 707-428-7375

Fax: 707-429-4874

Fire Station 39

1975 Huntington Drive

Phone: 707-428-7300

Fax: 707-429-6245

Fire Station 40

2555 Hilborn Drive

Phone: 707-429-6244

Fax: 707-429-6247

Fire Station 41

3200 N Texas St

Phone: 707-428-7375

Fax: 707-429-6241

Fairfield Police Department

1000 Webster St

Dispatch: 707-428-7300

Administration: 707-428-7362

Fax: 707-428-7576

Website: www fairfield ca gov/government/ city-departments/ police?locale=en

Rio Vista

Rio Vista Fire Department

350 Main St

Phone: 707-374-2300

Website: www riovistacity com/fire

Rio Vista Police Department

50 Poppy House Road

Administrative office: 707-374-6366

Dispatch: 707-374-2300

Website: www riovistacity com/police

Suisun City

Suisun City Fire Department 621 Pintail Drive

Phone: 707-421-7205

Fax: 707-421-7398

Website: www suisun com/ departments/ fire-department/

Suisun City Police Department

701 Civic Center Blvd

Dispatch (Nonemergency): 707-421-7373

Administration: 707-421-7350

Website: police suisun com

Vacaville

Vacaville Fire Department

Phone 707-449-5452

Website: www ci vacaville ca us/government/ fire-department?locale=en

Station 65 — 6080 A St Elmira

Station 71 – 111 S Orchard Avenue

Station 72 – 2001 Ulatis Drive

Station 73 – 650 Eubanks Court

Station 74 – 1850 Alamo Drive

Station 75 — 111 Cogburn Circle

Vine Street Fire Station - Vine Street

Vacaville Police Department

660 Merchant St

Nonemergency: 707-449-5200

Website: www ci vacaville ca us/government/ police-department

Vallejo

Vallejo Fire Department

Administration: 703 Curtola Parkway Phone: 707-648-4526

Station 21 – Ladder truck

– 1220 Marin St

Station 22 – Engine

– 700 Fifth St

Station 23 – Engine

– 900 Redwood St

Station 24 – Engine

– 1005 Oakwood Ave

Station 25 — Engine

— 595 Mini Drive

Station 27 – Engine – 1585 Ascot Court

Vallejo Police Department

111 Amador St

Phone: 707-648-4321

Fax: 707-648-4490

Website: www cityofvallejo net/city_hall/departments___divisions/fire

Rural Fire Protection Districts

Cordelia Fire Protection District 2155 Cordelia Road Phone: 707-864-0468 Fax: 707-864-8607

Website: www cordeliafire org

Montezuma Fire Protection District 21 N Fourth St , Rio Vista Station 52: 2151 Collinsville Road, Birds Landing Administrative office: 707-374-5962

Website: www montezumafiredistrict com

Suisun Fire Protection District 445 Jackson St , Fairfield

Business line: 707-425-3605 Dispatch-emergencies only: 707-421-7090

Vacaville Fire Protection District

Station 64 Administration 420 Vine St 707-447-2252

Website: www vfpd net

Local hospitals provide care for Solano residents

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

Area hospitals continue to help residents with state-of-the-art facilities in communities throughout the county.

NorthBay Healthcare’s origins date back to 1956 when community leaders from Fairfield and Vacaville initiated a fund drive to build a hospital that would serve families throughout upper Solano County.

Intercommunity Hospital opened its doors in 1959 with 32 beds. In 1977 they expanded, adding more buildings and in two years they were up to 108 beds.

As the communities grew it became apparent that Vacaville was in need of a hospital and in 1983 a new campaign was launched to raise funds for a second hospital.

In 1986 a corporate reorganization changed the organization’s name to NorthBay Healthcare. Intercommunity Hospital in Fairfield became NorthBay Medical Center.

The company rebranded in 2022 as NorthBay Health.

NorthBay Medical Center provides a Level II Trauma Center, along with a modern Maternity Unit with private birthing suites, a newborn Intensive Care Unit for premature and critically ill newborns, State-of-the-art Critical Care units, Comprehensive Diagnostic Imaging Services, NorthBay Heart and Vascular Center and a Cancer Center

accredited by the American College of Surgeons.

Then-NorthBay Healthcare opened VacaValley hospital in 1987 with 50-beds following a $1.2 million community fund-raising project.

The facility provides 24-hour services including 44 medical-surgical beds, a six-bed critical care unit for high-level intensive care, two surgery suites, a full-service laboratory and diagnostic

imaging services with a fully equipped radiology department including CT scanner.

Since then, each hospital has added more space and services to more than 100,000 square feet of new medical facilities over the past several years.

The Fairfield hospital is growing to match the continuing growth of the community, adding operating rooms, diagnostic facilities, labs and patient rooms.

The emergency department has also expanded, as has the hospital’s parking lot.

NorthBay Medical Center includes a Level II trauma center to handle some of the more seriously injured patients in the region. The health care organization’s hospital in Vacaville, VacaValley Hospital, has completed an expansion that features a state-of-the-art cancer center.

Medical services aren’t the only way NorthBay, which employs roughly 2,500 people, is spreading itself across the community.

The well-respected NorthBay Healthcare Foundation

continues to broaden community-based philanthropic efforts to support nonprofit organizations throughout Solano County.

NorthBay Medical Center was named one of the nation’s Best Maternity Hospitals by Newsweek Magazine. It is one of just 231 hospitals in 36 states to make the list.

Residents have more than one choice for medical treatments at hospitals, the Napa Solano Kaiser Permanente is another major force in the community for medical services, employing nearly 6,400 workers and tending to more than 300,000 patients in the region.

First established in Vallejo in 1945, Kaiser Permanente Napa-Solano has steadily grown to serve more than 240,000 members, spanning an area stretching from the Carquinez Bridge north to Vacaville and Dixon, through the Napa Valley to Calistoga, and over to Benicia.

The various facilities include Kaiser Permanente

SEE HOSPITALS, PAGE 31

Hospitals

From Page 30

Napa Solano facilities include Kaiser Permanente Vallejo Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Vacaville Medical Center, Kaiser Permanente Fairfield Medical Offices and Kaiser Permanente Napa Medical Offices.

Kaiser Permanente has hospital facilities in both Vacaville and Vallejo, each with certified stroke facilities. The hospital in Vallejo offers highly respected breast imaging services and a comprehensive rehabilitation center, as well as a top-level cancer research program. Vacaville is home to a state-ofthe-art family birth center and is also home to Solano County’s designated Level II trauma center.

They have received several accolades over the years including:

Newsweek’s “Best Maternity Care Hospitals 2020” report in July 2020 recognized Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals in Vacaville and Vallejo for exceptional care to mothers, babies and families. In addition, Kaiser Permanente Vallejo and

Vacaville Medical Centers recently received the American Heart Association’s Get with the Guidelines Quality Award. Both facilities received the “Gold Plus” rating for the care of heart failure patients.

Along with its award-winning medical services, Kaiser Permanente has also been involved in philanthropic measures in communities throughout Solano County. That positive stewardship extends to the environment, as well, with Kaiser Permanente engaged in programs to increase recycling, eliminate mercury use and other waste and reduce the creation of different forms of pollution.

Growth and expansion continue to be major aspects of both NorthBay and Kaiser as the two push to keep pace with the counties growing population.

Solano County is home to a high number of active-duty service members, veterans and retirees served by David Grant Medical Center at Travis Air Force Base, which provides a full range of medical services for people who are currently or have worn our nation’s uniform.

David Grant is a

full-service teaching hospital and has the largest footprint when it comes to patient coverage area. The U.S. Air Force medical facility offers its services to more nearly 500,000 potential patients who in the northern San Francisco Bay Area.

One of David Grant’s qualities is the presence of the nearby Travis Fisher House, which is actually two houses. Combined, the two houses offer more than 18,000 square feet of living space available to offer a home-like environment to the families of service members who are undergoing major medical procedures at

the hospital.

The Travis Fisher Houses are two of just 65 such facilities across the nation.

Sutter Solano is another recognized regional leader in health care. Sutter Solano has medical campus facilities in both Fairfield and Vacaville. In addition, their main hospital facility is located in Vallejo and that facility, known by other names over the years, has served Vallejo since 1921.

While the quality of care spans a range of medical disciplines, Sutter Solano is probably best recognized for its work in orthopedic surgery. Sutter

doctors are among the region’s best when it comes to sports medicine, joint replacement, reconstruction and other orthopedic specialties.

Likewise, Sutter Solano has one of the region’s top cancer facilities, with a 20,000-square-foot center dedicated to both treatment and prevention.

Sutter Solano also puts a great deal of effort into the affordability of care. The group’s website, suttersolano. org, has a comprehensive series of tools to help patients understand how to maximize their health care coverage and the best options to help keep their out-of-pocket expenses as low as possible.

Solano County itself also offers a range of health services, from child welfare to mental health, substance abuse and more. Many of these services are often available at little to no charge.

The Solano County Department of Health and Human Services employs more than 1,200 workers at 22 different offices throughout the county. Complete information on the available services can be found at www.co. solano.ca.us/depts/hss.

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Solano County is home to several major hospitals as well as clinics and skilled-nursing facilities. Here is a list:

Hospitals

David Grant Medical Center: For military personnel, their dependents and military retirees, 101 Bodin Circle, Travis Air Force Base, 707-423-3000 Website: www travis af mil/units/ dgmc/index asp

Kaiser Permanente Medical Center: 975 Sereno Drive, Vallejo, 707-651-1000 Website: healthy kaiserpermanente org/northern-california

and 900 Broadway St , Vallejo, 707-643-4545

Website: www plannedparenthood org

Hospitals and clinics offer assistance for those in need US post offices in, near Solano County

Solano After Hours Medical Care: 1320 Pennsylvania Ave , Fairfield, 707-428-3978

Website: wellspring northbay org/ northbay-center-for-primary-care-now-offersafter-hours-urgent-care

Solano County Family Health Clinics: 2201 Courage Drive, Fairfield, 707-784-2010; 1119 E Monte Vista Ave , Vacaville, 469-4640; and 365 Tuolomne St , Vallejo, 553-5509 Website: www solanocounty gov/government/healthsocial-services-hss/family-health-services/ family-health-services-services-offered

Kaiser Permanente Medical Center: 1 Quality Drive, Vacaville, 707-624-4000 Website: https://healthy kaiser permanente org

NorthBay Medical Center: 1200 B Gale Wilson Blvd , Fairfield, 707-646-5000 Website: www northbay org

Sutter Solano Medical Center: 300 Hospital Drive, Vallejo 707-554-4444 Website: www sutterhealth org/ssmc

VacaValley Hospital: 1000 Nut Tree Road, Vacaville, 707- 624-7000 Website: www northbay org/about/ northbay-vacavalley-hospital html

Clinics

Community Medical Centers: 600 Nut Tree Road, Suite 310, Vacaville, 707-359-1800 Website: www communitymedical centers org Dixon Family Practice: 131 W A St , Suite 1, Dixon,

707-635-1600 Website: www communitymedicalcenters org/Locations/Dixon

La Clinica: 243 Georgia St , Vallejo, 707-556-8100 Website: www laclinica org/vallejo

NorthBay Center for Primary Care: 5140 Business Center Drive, Fairfield, 707-646-3500; 2458 Hilborn Road, Fairfield, 707-624-8500; 421 Nut Tree Road, Vacaville, 707-624-7500; and 1010 Nut Tree Road, Vacaville, 707-624-8500 Website: www northbay org

NorthBay Center for Women’s Health: 1860 Pennsylvania Ave , Suite 300, Fairfield, 707-646-4100 Website: www northbay org/services/womens-services/index html

NorthBay Center for Primary Care After Hours: 1001 Nut Tree Road, Suite 220, Vacaville 707-455-1343 Website: https:// wellspring northbay org/northbay-center-for-primary-carenow-offers-after-hours-urgent-care

Planned Parenthood: 1325 Travis Blvd , Fairfield, 707-429885; 600 Nut Tree Drive, Suite 210, Vacaville, 707-317-2111;

Sutter Solano Regional Medical Foundation: 2700 to 2720 Low Court, Fairfield; 770 Mason St , Vacaville; 690 Main St , Rio Vista; and 100 Hospital Drive, Vallejo For appointments, call 707-427-4900 Website: www suttermedicalfoundation org/smgsolano

Sutter Solano Regional Medical Foundation Walk-in Clinic: 2060 Harbison Drive, Suite D, Vacaville 800-972-5547

Website: www sutterhealth org/services/walk-in-care

Skilled nursing facilities

Buck Serenity Homes: 691 Buck Ave , Vacaville, 866-652-8987

Greenfield Care Center: 1260 Travis Blvd , Fairfield, 707-425-0669 Website: www gccfairfield com

Laurel Creek Health Center at Paradise Valley Estates: 2800 Estates Drive, Fairfield, 707-432-1200 Website: www pvestates com

Nene Rest Home: 2968 Vista Grande, Fairfield, 707-425-7522

Website: https://neneresthomes com

How to contact federal, state representatives

senate gov Elected to a six-year term in 2022

Gov. Gavin Newsom: State Capitol Building, Suite 1173, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-445-2841 www gov ca gov

Here is a list of elected state and federal leaders who represent Solano County:

Rep. John Garamendi: 2368 Rayburn HOB, Washington, D C 20515, 202-225-1880; 1261 Travis Blvd Suite 180, Fairfield, CA 94533 707-438-1822 https://garamendi house gov Elected to a two-year term in 2024

Rep. Mike Thompson: 231 Cannon Office Building, Washington, D C , 20515, 202-225-3311; 622 Main St , Suite 106, Woodland, CA 95695 530-753-5301 https:// mikethompson house gov Elected to a two-year term 2024 Sen. Adam Schiff: 112 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D C 20510, 202-224-3841; 1 Post St , Suite 2450, San Francisco, CA 94104 www schiff senate gov Elected to a six-year term in 2024

U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla: 112 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D C , 20510, 202-224-3553; 501 I St , Suite 7-600, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-448-2787; 70 Washington St Suite 203, Oakland, CA 94607, 510-286-8537 www padilla

Elected to a four-year term in 2022

Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis: State Capitol Building, Suite 1114, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-445-8994 www ltg ca gov

Elected to a four-year term in 2022

Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber: 1500 11th St Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-653-7244 www sos ca gov/ administration/about Elected to a four-year term in 2022

Attorney General Rob Bonta: 1300 I St , Sacramento, CA 96814, 916-445-9555 https://oag ca gov Elected to a four-year term in 2022

State Treasurer Fiona Ma: 915 Capitol Mall, Room 110, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-653-2995 www treasurer ca gov

Elected to a four-year term in 2022

State Controller Malia M. Cohen: 300 Capitol Mall, Suite 1850, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-445-3028 www sco ca gov

Elected to a four-year term in 2022

State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond: 1430 N St , Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-319-0800 www cde ca gov Elected to a four-year term in 2022

Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara: 300 Capitol Mall, Suite 1700, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-482-3500 www

insurance ca gov Elected to a four-year term in 2022

State Sen. Christopher Cabaldon: 1021 O St , Suite 7320, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-651-4003; 420 Virginia St , Suite 1-C, Vallejo, CA 94590, 707-551-2389 https://sd03 senate ca gov Elected to a four-year term in 2024

Assemblywoman Lori Wilson: State Capitol Building, P O Box 942849, Sacramento, CA 94249-0011, 916-319-2011; 1 Harbor Center, Suite 270, Suisun City, CA 94585, 707-438-7359 http://asmdc org/members/a11 Elected to a two-year term in 2024

Assemblywoman Cecelia M. Aguiar-Curry: State Capitol Building, P O Box 942849, Sacramento, CA 94249-0004, 916-319-2004; 725 Main St , Suite 206, Woodland, CA 95695, 530-662-7867; 2721 Napa Valley Corporate Drive, Napa, CA 95695, 707-224-0440 https://a04 asmdc org Elected to a two-year term in 2024

Assemblywoman Buffy Wicks: State Capitol Building, P O Box 942849, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-319-2014; 1515 Clay St , Suite 2201, Oakland, CA 94612, 510-286-1400 http:// asmdc org/members/a14 Elected to a two-year term in 2024

Suisun

Vacaville

Vallejo

Vallejo

Residents can find clubs, groups to fit interests

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

People have plenty of oppor tunity to find groups and clubs with similar interests. Check with the group by calling or visiting the website for the most current meeting information.

Service/Fraternal Organizations

Alooma Court No. 198 Daughters of Isis: 10 a m second Saturday of the month, 625 Main St , Suisun City Info: 707-334-0676

Alooma Temple No. 212: 7 p m second Friday of the month, 625 Main St , Suisun City Info: Victor Perry, 707-321-3016

Dixon Lions Club: 7 p m first and third Wednesday, Bud’s Pub and Grill, 100 S First St , Dixon Info: Scott Smith, 916-806-7451, scotgail@pacbell net, http://e-clubhouse org/sites/dixonca

Elks Lodge No. 2638: 7:30 p m first and third Tuesday (except July and August), 304 Parker St , Vacaville Info: 707-448-2763, www elks org/lodges/home cfm?lodgenumber=2638

Fairfield Host Lions Club: Noon Wednesdays, Mimi’s Cafe, 1650 Gateway Blvd , Fairfield Info: 707-427-6927, https://e-clubhouse org/sites/fairfieldhost

Fairfield Kiwanis Club: 5:30 to 7 p m third Wednesday, El Pitayo Mexican Restaurant, 620 Jackson St , Fairfield Info: 707-365-6655, www kiwanisof fairfield org

Fairfield Order of Eastern Star: 7:30 p m second Thursday, Masonic Lodge Hall, 412 Travis Blvd , Fairfield Info: 707-429-8254

Fairfield-Suisun Rotary Club: Noon Tuesdays, Salvation Army Kroc Center, 4756 Suisun Valley Road, Suisun Valley Info: 707-435-3686, www fsrotary org/ our-meetings

Fairfield-Suisun Masonic Lodge No. 55: 7 p m social hour, 8 p m meeting the second Tuesday, Masonic Lodge, 1412 Travis Blvd , Fairfield Info: 707-425-3175, www suisunlodgeno55 com

Fairfield-Suisun Twilight Rotary Club: 6:10 p m , first and third Wednesdays, Wooden Valley Winery, 4756 Suisun Valley Road Info: 707-427-6927, www fsrotary org

Fraternal Order of the Fairfield Eagles No. 4113: 7 p m second and fourth Wednesday, 77 Marina Center, Suisun City Info: 707-428-4113 The women’s auxiliary meets at 7 p m first and third Wednesday at the same location

Independent Order of Odd Fellows No. 78: 7 p m Monday, 6 p m third Monday, IOOF Hall, 803 Main St Suisun City Info: Paul Wright, 707-590-3065

Independent Order of Odd Fellows No. 83: 7 p m first and third Tuesday, 7 p m , 530 Main St , Vacaville Info: IOOF83Vaca@gmail com, https://ioof83vacaville tripod com

Lions Rio Vista: 12:15 p m 1st and 3rd Tuesday, The Point Restaurant, 120 Marina Drive, Rio Vista Info: 707-374-5025, http://e-clubhouse org/sites/ riovista/index php

Montezuma Shrine Club: 7 p m third Tuesday, Masonic Lodge, 1412 Travis Blvd , Fairfield Info: 916-920-4107

(Sept to May), Fairfield Adult Recreation Center, Round Table Room, 1200 Civic Center Drive, Fairfield Info:

Genealogy Society of Vallejo-Benicia: 1:30 p m first Thursdays, Vallejo Naval & Historical Museum, Info: 707-334-0675,

Lightwriters Photography Club: 7 to 9 p m first and third Wednesday, Round Table Pizza, 140 Browns Valley Parkway, Vacaville Info: www facebook com/ lightwritersphotographyclub, lightwriterspc@att net

Mare Island Toastmasters 2839: 7:30 to 9 p m

Thursday online, in person second Thursday, Kaiser Permanente Vallejo Medical Center, 975 Sereno Drive, nfo: 707-373-3319, https://mareisland

7:30 p m second Sunday

(except September and December), Florence Douglas Senior Center, 333 Amador St , Vallejo Info: orthbayrosesociety org/

National Council of Negro Women Fairfield-Suisun 7 p m second Thursday, Suisun City Senior Center, 318 Merganser Drive Info: https://fsvncnw org

Northwind Quilters Guild: 10 a m first Tuesday, Fairfield Adult Recreation Center, 1200 Civic Center first Wednesday, Cloth Carousel 150B Info: tealovinglady@yahoo com, rthwindquiltersguild com

REPUBLIC FILE

Bocce players watch a ball roll in during summer league play at the John Magnetti Memorial Bocce Ball courts.

Moose Lodge Family Center No. 861: Men meet at 7 p m the first and third Tuesday, women meet at 7 p m the second and fourth Tuesday, 623 Taylor St Fairfield Info: 707-422-3245

Moose Lodge No. 1846: 7 p m first and third Wednesday, 11 N Front St , Rio Vista www mooseintl org/location/1846-delta

Native Daughters of the Golden West: 7 p m the second Wednesday, IOOF Hall, 803 Main St , Suisun City Info: Catherine Fraser, 707-425-4897, www ndgw org

Rotary Club of Cordelia: 7:30 a m Wednesdays, Courtyard by Marriott, 1350 Holiday Lane, Fairfield Info: www cordeliarotary org

Rotary Club of Dixon: Noon Wednesday, 106 West A Street, Dixon Info: 707-678-2448 Info: www dixonrotary org

Soroptimist International of Central Solano County: Noon Tuesdays (except July and August), Hilton Garden Inn, 2200 Gateway Court, Fairfield Info: https://sicentralsolano com

Vacaville Rotary Club: 12:15 p m Thursday, Vacaville Opera House, 560 Main St Info: 707-453-0196, rsa@ rsaarchitecture com, www vacavillerotary org

Vacaville Sunrise Rotary: 7:30 a m Tuesday, Journey Downtown, 308 Main St , Vacaville Info: vacasunriserotary@gmail com, https://vacavillesunriserotary com

Wednesday Club of Suisun: 11:30 a m the second Wednesday (except July and August), 225 Sacramento St , Suisun City Info: 707-425-2745, www wednesday clubofsuisun org

Woman’s Improvement Club of Rio Vista: Meets four times a year, 401 Montezuma St , Rio Vista Info: 707-374-5425

Veterans Groups

American Legion Reams Post 182: 10 a m second Wednesday, Veterans Memorial Building, 427 Main St , Suisun City Info: reamspost182@gmail com

Disabled American Veterans Fairfield-Suisun Chapter No. 81: 10 a m third Saturday, Veterans Hall, 427 Main St , Suisun City; 10 a m second Saturday, 549 Merchant St , Vacaville Info: www vacavets org/organizations/ disabled-american-veterans-chapter-84

Veterans of Foreign Wars-Simmons Sheldon Post No. 2333: 7:30 p m the second Thursday, Suisun Veterans Memorial Building, 427 Main St , Suisun City The women’s auxiliary meets at 7:30 p m the second Thursday at the same location Info: 707-429-9140, www vfw2333 org

Other

Central Solano Citizen/Taxpayer Group: Noon the second Friday (except December), Benicia Grill II, 2390 N Texas St Info: 707-425-1442

Fairfield Bocce Federation: 5 p m Thursday, Fairfield Adult Recreation Center, 1200 Civic Center Drive Info: 707-410-9657, http://fairfieldbocce org

Fairfield-Suisun Bass Reapers: 7 p m first Tuesday, Round Table Pizza, Green Valley Shopping Center, 5085 Business Center Drive, Fairfield Info: 707-426-1694

Fairfield-Suisun Orators Toastmasters Club: 6 p m Tuesdays, Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of Commerce, 1111 Webster St , Fairfield Info: 707-592-9727, https:// fairfieldsuisunorators toastmastersclubs org

Fairfield Garden Club: 1:30 p m the third Wednesday

Rodriguez Music Boosters: 6 p m fourth Tuesday, Rodriguez High School, 5000 Red Top Road, Fairfield Info: www rhseu com

Solano County Democratic Central Committee: 7 p m the fourth Wednesday (except November and December), Solano County Government Center, 675 Texas St , Room 1600, Fairfield Info: 707-4480506 Info: www solanodemocrats com

Solano County Genealogical Society: 11 a m the first Saturday (except January, July, August), Zoom meetings only Info: www scgsca org

Twin City Steppers Square Dance Club: 6:30 p m Tuesdays (No fifth Tuesdays), Joseph A Nelson Community Center, 611 Village Drive, Suisun City Fee Info: 707-429-3637, www twincitysteppers com Vacaville Toastmasters Club: 12:10 p m the second and fourth Tuesday, Vacaville City Hall, Conference 2, 650 Merchant St Info: 707-469-4123

Youth Organizations

Boy Scouts of America Chief Solano District: Info: www facebook com/ChiefSolanoDistrict or https://chiefsolanobsa org

Girl Scouts of Northern California: 1650 Harbor Bay Parkway, Suite 100, Alameda Info: 510-562-8470, 800-447-4475, info@girlscoutsnorcal org, www gsnorcal org

Solano County 4-H Clubs: Info: http://cesolano ucanr edu/4-H_program

Senior Clubs

Senior Americans Club: 10 a m Tuesdays, Fairfield Adult Recreation Center, 1200 Civic Center Drive Info: 707-428-7421

Sons in Retirement Tri-City Branch No. 106: 11 a m third Wednesday, Solano Yacht Club, 703 Civic Center Blvd , Suisun City Info: 707-434-1160, www sir106 org

Variety of faiths can be found in Solano

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Solano County is home to a diverse population, which is reflected in the different number of faiths residents worship in the area.

Some have their own buildings. Others share meeting space or hold services in venues such as classrooms.

Local houses of worship include:

A New Creation Ministries: 321 W Texas St , Suite 110, Fairfield 707-386-9605, 707-344-8494, www facebook com/anewcreationsfairfield

Allendale Union Chapel: 4844 Store Road, Elmira 707-469-8437, www allendaleunionchapel com

Ark of the Covenant: 260 Link Road, Suite F, Fairfield 707-426-2414

Bay North Church of Christ: 2100 Pennsylvania Ave , Fairfield 707-435-0200, www baynorthcoc org

Berean Baptist Church: 1147 Broadway St , Fairfield 707-673-2383, www bereanbaptistfairfieldca com

Bethany Lutheran Church: 1011 Ulatis Drive, Vacaville 707- 451-6675, www gobethany com

Bethel Community Church: 600 E Tabor Ave , Fairfield 707-427-1415, www bccfairfield org

Calvary Baptist Church: 600 Gregory St , Fairfield 707-422-7037, https://mcbcfs org

Calvary Chapel Rio Vista: 410 Montezuma St , Rio Vista 707-374-2579, www calvarychapelriovista com

Calvary Chapel Solano: 1180 Western St , Fairfield 707-438-0700, www calvarysolano org

Casa De Oracion De Fairfield: 1745 Enterprise Drive, Fairfield www cdofairfield com

Celebration Church: 1837 Blossom Ave , Fairfield 707-422-5250, https://celebrationch com

Chabad Solano County: 730 Main St , Vacaville 707-592-5300, www jewishsolano com

Christian Church of Vacaville: 66 Vine St , Vacaville 707-448-8778, www christianchurchofvacaville org

Church of Christ: 1500 Alamo Drive, Vacaville 707-448-8838, www vacavillechurchofchrist alamodr com

Church of God at Vacaville: 100 Main St 707-365-8701, http://vacavillechurchofgod weebly com

Church of God Fairfield: 930 Empire St 707-425-0150, https://cogfairfield com

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints: In Fairfield: 4039 Suisun Valley Road, 806 Travis Blvd , 2700 Camrose Ave , 101 Oakwood Drive In Vacaville: 311 Alamo Drive, 480 Wrentham Drive, 360 Portsmouth Ave City Church 2:42: 743 E Tabor Ave , Fairfield 707-426-2172, http://citychurchfairfield com

Community Christian Church: 238 Travis Ct , Suisun City 707-419-1226, www facebook com/ Community-Christian-Church-120897517923754

Community Presbyterian Church: 425 Hemlock St , Vacaville 707-448-5055, www community presbyterian com

Community United Methodist Church: 1875 Fairfield Ave , Fairfield 707-426-2944, www cumcfair fieldca org

Congregation B’nai Israel: 1256 Nebraska St , Vallejo 707-642-6526 https://www vallejocbi org

Covenant Community Church: 3870 Alamo Drive,

Vacaville 707-448-5234, www cccvv org

Crossroads Christian Church: 190 Butcher Road, Vacaville 707-446-9838, www cccv me

The Edge: 2300 Boynton Ave, Fairfield 707-330-0382, www edgecc org

Epiphany Episcopal Church: 300 West St , Vacaville 707-448-2275, www epiphanychurchvacaville org

Fairfield Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses: 2100 Walters Road, Fairfield 707-425-2163

Fairfield Christian Reformed Church: 300 Marigold Drive, Fairfield 707-426-1006, www fairfieldcrc org

Fairfield Church of Christ: 2200 Fairfield Ave , Fairfield 707-425-2373, www ffchurchofchrist org

Fairfield Community Seventh-day Adventist Church: 1101 E Tabor Ave , Fairfield 707-426-6720, www fairfieldsda com

Faith Community of Vacaville: 192 Bella Vista Road, Vacaville 707-451-2026, www vacavillefaith org

Faith Family Bible Church: 157 Leisure Way, Vacaville, 707-451-8375, www faithfamilybiblechurch org

Faith Missionary Baptist Church: 5100 Maple Road, Vacaville 707-448-1794

Family Bible Church: 720 Link Road, Fairfield 707-864-6602, www familybible net

Father’s House: 3333 Vaca Valley Parkway, Suite 800, Vacaville www tfh org

First Assembly of God: 2207 Union Ave , Fairfield 707-425-3612, www 1agff org

First Baptist Church: 1121 Clay St , Fairfield 707-422-2500, www fbc-fairfield org

First Baptist Church of Vacaville: 1127 Davis St , Vacaville 707- 448-6209, www fbcvv com

First Christian Church: 199 Marina Blvd , Suisun City 707-428-4284, www 1stChristianchurch org

First Church of Religious Science: 229 Springs Road, Vallejo 707-644-5971

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church: 1030 Redwood St , Vallejo 707-552-0115, www goodshepherdvallejo org

Grace Community Church: McBride Senior Center, 91 Town Center Square, Vacaville 707-534-3242, www gccvv org

Grace Episcopal Church: 1405 Kentucky St , Fairfield 707-425-4481, www gracechurchfairfield org

Greater Purpose Church: 2573 Claybank Road, Suite 11, Fairfield 707-857-2574, www gpcnorcal org

Parkway Community Church: 2397 Heath Drive, Fairfield 707-425-7675, www eparkway com

The Refuge: 180 E Monte Vista, Vacaville 707-3019874, www realrefuge com

Rockville Presbyterian Fellowship: 4177 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield 707-863-0581, www rockville presbyterian org

The Salvation Army Kroc Center: 586 E Wigeon Way, Suisun City 707-439-7880, www gokroc org

Samoan Christian Fellowship Church: 1200 Western St , Fairfield 707-428-4211

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church: 580 Trinity Drive, Vacaville 707-448-8599, www discover theshepherd org

Shiloh Baptist Church: 185 Chandler St , Vacaville 707-446-4151, www shilohbaptistchurchvaca org

Solano Valley Church: 1307 Oliver Road, Fairfield 707-425-9463, www solanovalley org

Guru Nanak Sikh Temple: 2947 Rockville Road, Fairfield https://sikhtemple com

Harvest Church: 126 Peabody Road, Vacaville 707-427-8378, www 707harvest com

Holy Spirit Catholic Church: 1050 N Texas St , Fairfield 707-425-3138, https://holyspiritfairfield org

Hope Christian Church: 4325 Cordelia Road, Fairfield 707-864-5683, www hopechristianchurch net

Islamic Center of Fairfield: 1945 Kidder Ave , Fairfield 707-426-5768, www fairfieldmasjid com

Liberty Church: 2641 N Texas St , Fairfield 707-425-9673, https://libertyfairfield com

Life Changing Reality Christian Center: 1745 Enterprise Drive, Fairfield 707-428-4673

Living Waters Worship Center: 260 Link Road, Suite F, Fairfield 707-453-1817, https://www living waterswc org

Macedonia Church of God in Christ: 425 Walters Road, Suisun City 707-425-3135, www macedoniacogic suisun org

Marina Church: Veteran’s Memorial Building, 427 Main St Suisun City 707-430-7906, www marina church com

The Mission: 6391 Leisure Town Road, Vacaville 707-448-3124, https://imissionchurch com

Mount Calvary Baptist Church: 1735 Enterprise Drive, Building 3, Fairfield, and 601 Whispering Bay Lane, Suisun City 707-425-1849, www mountcalvary church org

New Hope Christian Fellowship: 4910 Allison Parkway, Vacaville 707-446-4051, www newhopevv com

New Hope Church of the Nazarene: 800 Jefferson St , Fairfield 707-421-2062, www fairfieldnewhope org

New Life Church: 5900 Cherry Glen Road, Vacaville 707-446-9000, www newlifechurch com

Northgate Christian Fellowship: 2201 Lake Herman Road, Benicia 707-747-5855, https://thisis church

North Hills Christian Church: 3777 Vaca Valley Parkway Suite F , Vacaville 707-449-8977, https://www northhillsvv org

Orchard Avenue Baptist Church: 301 N Orchard Ave Vacaville 707-448-5848, www itsallaboutfamilies org

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church: 2700 Dover Ave , Fairfield 707-422-7767, https://olmcfairfield org

Sonrise Community Fellowship of the Nazarene: 5900 Cherry Glen Road, Vacaville 707-448-2566 Spirit & Truth Ministries: 1819 N Texas St , Suite C, Fairfield 707-712-1853

St. John Lutheran Church: 78 Peabody Road, Vacaville 707-469-1546, www stjohnvacaville org

St. Joseph Catholic Church: 1791 Marshall Road, Vacaville 707-447-2354, www stjoseph-vacaville org

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church: 1600 Union Ave , Fairfield 707-422-4741, http://stmarksfairfield org

St. Mary’s Catholic Church: 350 Stinson Ave , Vacaville 707-448-2390, http://stmarysvacaville com

St. Matthew Baptist Church: 125 McClellan St Vacaville 707-448-1560, www stmatthew vacaville org

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church: 101 West St Vacaville 707-448-5154

St. Stephen Christian Methodist Episcopal Church: 2301 Union Ave , Fairfield 707-425-2925, https://ststephencmechurch org

St. Timothy Orthodox Church: 4593 Central Way, Fairfield 707-864-6236, www sttimothy us

Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church: 1224 Alabama St , Vallejo 707-642-6916, www stscah com

Suisun-Fairfield United Church of Christ: 701 Suisun St , Suisun City, with the First Samoan Congregational Community 707-425-6330

Summit Church: 1390 E Tabor Ave , Fairfield 707-688-9903, www summitchurchfairfield com

Trinity Baptist Church of Vacaville: 401 W Monte Vista Ave , Vacaville 707-448-5430, www tbcvacaville com

Unified Christian Fellowship: 1390 E Tabor Ave Fairfield 707-344-8375

Unity Church of the Valley Spiritual Center: 350 N Orchard Ave , Vacaville 707-447-0521, www unityvacaville org

Vacaville Bible Church: 490 Brown St , Vacaville 707-446-8684, www vacavillebiblechurch com

Vacaville Church of Christ: 401 Fir St , Vacaville 707-448-5085, www vacavillecoc com

Valley Church: 5063 Maple Road, Vacaville 707-448-7222, www valleychurch com

Wat Chaimongkol Buddhist Temple: 1613 Fairfield Ave , Fairfield 707-421-2278

Word of Faith Christian Center: 650 Parker Road, Fairfield 707-437-2257, www wofccfairfield com

Financial squabbles could punish Solano economy

TODD R. HANSEN THANSEN@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

President Donald Trump would like nothing better than to send Federal Reserve Chairman Jay Powell to “Alligator Alcatraz.”

Trump wants the short-term interest rates cut, and Powell and the Fed have been unwilling to budge. He argues that cutting the rates too soon will only mean that they will have to be raised again if the pressure from tariffs presses on inflation.

That pressure is already being felt in the markets.

It does not help Trump’s carriage that the Federal Reserve cut rates three times during Joe Biden’s last year in office, and earlier this year all but promised more cuts – at least two – this year.

That “war” between the White House and the Federal Reserve, coupled with the conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East, trade bantering and what was described as other economic “headwinds” at a June gathering of business and government leaders in Fairfield has left the views into the economic future a bit murky.

And because small business often feels the worst of those pressures, Solano County’s economy could slow on virtually all fronts.

The June unemployment rate jumped, a possible sign of that slowdown.

Rob Eyler, an economics professor at

California State University, Sonoma and head of Economic Forensics and Analytics in Petaluma, does think interest rates will be cut one-quarter of 1% in September.

Moreover, he thinks that is what the Federal Reserve has planned all along no matter how the political

noise has risen.

He emphasized in a recent interview that the Federal Reserve chair has far less power when it comes to those financial policy decisions than over day-today management, and why traditionally the reserve members try to compromise and create a public consensus, that foundation has cracked a bit lately.

Two of the 12 members came out stating they disagreed with the decision to hold the rates steady. They favored cutting them. The question is were those financial opinions or political leanings?

Eyler’s bigger concern is whether the financial markets are being swayed by the political pressures, creating far greater uncertainty as the year closes and a second rate cut is considered.

He said no president should be dictating how the markets are managed for their own political gains.

Either way, the 10,000-foot view, Eyler added, will not distract the ground-level focus on everyday life.

If Solano County businesses have to pay more for goods coming in from overseas, and if the labor market continues to make it more difficult to hire

Travis continues to top Solano’s employer list

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Solano County is home to a diverse industry of employers from emerging biotech companies, to a bustling food industry and a robust military presence, Solano County has a little of everything.

Travis Air Force Base remains the winner as a top employer with the largest work force of over 10,000. It also produces an estimated $1.6 billion to the regional economy.

Some local businesses have undergone major changes in the past year.

Jelly Belly was acquired by the Ferrara Candy Company in 2024.

Genentech manufacturing facility in Vacaville was sold for $1.2 billion to Lonza; a healthcare development and manufacturing company in 2024. Lonza employs more than 750 people at the manufacturing plant in Vacaville, according to its website.

Fairfield Anheuser-Busch plant continues to work on a $7 million improvement project that will improve infrastructure for the employer of 3,400 people.

A Solano County Regional Snapshot, with information compiled in February 2022, showed:

• Jobs declined by 3,501 from 2016 to 2021 but is project to grow 3,406 over the next five years.

• From 2016 to 2021, jobs decreased by 2.2% in Solano County. This

A C-17 gets ready to take off from Travis Air Force Base to carry undisclosed hurricane relief cargo from DavisMonthan, in Arizona, to Meridian, Mississippi, in response to Hurricane Michael in 2018.

Top 25 employers in Solano County

• California Medical Facility

• Collins Aerospace

• Duravent Inc.

• Fairfield Medical Offices

• Flatiron Construction Corp.

• Guittard Chocolate Co.

• Jelly Belly Candy Co.

• Kaiser Permanente Vallejo

Medical Center

• Macy’s

• NorthBay Health Green Valley

• NorthBay Medical Center

• NorthBay Vacavalley Hospital

• Quick Lane

• River Delta Unified School District

• Six Flags Discovery Kingdom

• Solano County

• Solano County Sheriff’s Office

• Solano County Office

of Education

• Sutter Solano Medical Center

• Touro University California

• Travis Air Force Base

• USDA Forest Service

• Valero Benicia Refinery

• Vallejo city

• Walmart Supercenter, Dixon

Source: California Employment Development Department Employers shown alphabetically

change fell short of the national growth rate by 1.8%. As the number of jobs increased, the labor force participation rate decreased from 61.6% to 57.8%

between 2016 and 2021.

• Median household income is $18.6K above the national median household income of $62.8K

Chambers help keep local businesses strong

than 500 more.

Benicia Chamber of Commerce

601 First St , Suite 100

The places where businesses mingle and grow is the local chambers of commerce.

These chambers are home to many businesses –both in type and sheer numbers – with the Fairfield-Suisun chamber being home to more than 600 businesses and Vacaville being home to more

Benicia, CA 94510

707-745-2120

www beniciachamber com

Dixon Chamber of Commerce

220 N Jefferson St Dixon, CA 95620

707-678-2650

www dixonchamber org

Fairfield-Suisun Chamber of Commerce

1111 Webster St Fairfield, CA 94533

707-425-4625

www fairfieldsuisunchamber com

Filipino-American Chamber of Commerce of Solano County

239 Cassady St Vallejo, CA 94590

707-246-9934

Rio Vista Chamber of Commerce

33 N Second St Rio Vista, CA 94571

707-374-2700

www riovista org

Vacaville Chamber of Commerce

411 Davis St , Suite 101 Vacaville, CA 95688

707-448-6424

www vacavillechamber com

Economy

From Page 35

and possibly push domestic costs up, too, then prices on the shelves will rise. That will undoubtedly cause the consumer to spend less on anything but the essentials.

Eyler presented his 2024 Index of Economic and Community Progress to the Solano County Board of Supervisors in June.

One of the things he emphasized was that Solano County depends on its small businesses to move the needle.

Businesses with 20 or fewer employees represent more than 48% of the workforce, the index states. And the more general definition of small businesses with 500 or fewer employees account for more than 80%.

He said the economic pressures could force small businesses, particularly retail, to shrink its space, and with it, its workforce. That also means starter jobs will be less available. Those same pressures also will be felt most poignantly in disadvantaged communities, mostly communities of color. Inflation, he said in the most recent interview, is a recessive tax that hurts low- and medium-income households the most.

The growth industries through 2030, the index states, will be transportation and warehousing; healthcare; arts and entertainment; information and technology and professional services – though nothing particularly dramatic.

Eyler said there are manufacturing opportunities for Solano, particularly in Vacaville’s biotech and life science clusters, industries Eyler said could soon be seen in places like Dixon, too.

The cut in interest rates, even short-term rates, could loosen access to capital.

Vallejo Chamber of Commerce

427 A Virginia St Vallejo, CA 94590

707-644-5551

www vallejochamber com

Solano County Black Chamber of Commerce

823 Jefferson Street, Ste A Fairfield, CA 94533

707-673-2148

https://solanoblackchamber com

Solano Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

1000 W Texas St , Suite A Fairfield, CA 94533

707-999-2966

www solanohcc com

However, the availability of larger investment capital, Eyler added, will have more to do with the how much the federal government will have to borrow, which takes away cheaper funding for others.

Planning and investment into energy, infrastructure and other growth needs are real-time necessities. While agriculture looks to be flat as a job generator over the next five years, the index states, its values are expected to rise. The look of the industry is expected to change, too.

Supervisor John Vasquez said Solano County could be growing green houses rather than field crops in open spaces.

Fairfield, Vacaville offer many shopping options

Things have changed in Fairfield over time, but one staple has been the Solano Town Center, otherwise known as “the mall.”

The mall in Fairfield has been a longtime fixture in the Solano shopping scene and in many ways shaped shopping throughout the county. Businesses and restaurants sprouted up along Gateway Boulevard over time and today the area around Fairfield’s mall is a virtual one-stop destination for home goods, clothing, shoes, athletic gear, books and just about anything else shoppers could imagine.

The mall itself has grown and evolved over the years, broadening its footprint greatly since being purchased by Starwood in 2012. The mall is now home to around 135 different shops, including anchors: Macy’s, J.C. Penney, Best Buy, Edwards Cinemas, Dave & Busters and Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Shopping is no fun without refueling with some food, and there are no worries in that department either. The mall also boasts three restaurants – Red Robin, Applebee’s and Buffalo Wild Wings along with the newly opened Dave & Busters – as well as a full food court that includes Subway, Panda Express, Kiki’s Chicken, Taqueria Mi Mezcal, Boba Plus, and Charley’s Philly Steaks.

The mall continues to evolve, even as longtime anchors like Sears faded away.

Store hours have changed along with ways to shop, many have gone to

walk through

curbside pickups and limited the amount of shoppers inside the stores at one time.

Vacaville hosts a large factory outlet mall which draw people from across the globe. As the mall in Fairfield helped spur additional retail development in the area, Vacaville’s Premium Outlets had a similar effect.

The outlets brought a number of popular fashion brands to the region, and the crowds that pursued those brands attracted additional retailers over the years. Now, if it can’t be found in the vicinity of Nut Tree Road and Nut Tree Parkway, it probably

doesn’t exist.

One of the great influences the outlets helped bring about was the feasibility of retail development across Interstate 80 at the Nut Tree complex. A one-time popular roadside stand that doubled as a pit stop on long freeway trips, the Nut Tree grew to be a center of family fun.

That popularity waned somewhat but the complex has since reinvented itself as a family fun destination as well as a retail center. Shopping at the Nut Tree includes nearly 400,000 square feet of retail space, with around 11 anchor stores and about

25 restaurants.

But retail isn’t limited to the large shopping centers. Downtown shopping districts exist in Rio Vista, Suisun City, Fairfield, Vacaville, Dixon, Benicia and Vallejo.

One aspect making these areas attractive to shoppers is the presence of specialty retailers not readily found in mall settings. These types of businesses are of particular focus in smaller markets such as Suisun City’s Waterfront District or along Benicia’s First Street.

Solano has plenty of places to enjoy an evening out

www backdoorbistro com

Looking for a change of scenery after dark?

Solano County is home to several nightspots including some that offer live entertainment.

Others showcase sports on multiple screens inside the venue.

Here are some nightspots in the county. Check with the venue to determine their hours.

Backdoor Bistro: 829 Merchant St Vacaville 707-685-9222,

BackRoad Vines at Village 360: 4949 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield 707-759-0185, www backroadvines com

BJ’s Restaurant and Brewery: 190 Nut Tree Parkway, Vacaville 707-359-2200, www bjsrestaurants com/locations/ca/vacaville

Buffalo Wild Wings: 1350 Travis Blvd Fairfield, 707-422-9964; 1601 E Monte Vista Ave , Vacaville 707-474-5222, www buffalowildwings com

Cast Iron Grill & Bar: 700 Main St , Suisun City, 707-425-1700, castirongrill andbar com

Caymus-Suisun Winery: 4991 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield Info: 707-286-1776, www wagnerfamilyofwine com/ come-visit/caymus-suisun

Cheers Nightclub: 321 Merchant St , Vacaville, 707-451-4049

Chris’ Club: 656 Benicia Road, Vallejo, 707-648-9257, www chrisclub com

Ding’s Cocktail Lounge: 1712 W Texas St , Fairfield, 707-425-2529

Favela’s Fusion: 1500 Oliver Road, Fairfield 707-421-8484, www favelasfusion com

Fuso’s: 535 Main St , Suite A, Vacaville 707-447-5560, www fusorestaurant com

Gentleman Jim’s: 1324 Lincoln Road East, Vallejo 707-642-0324, http://gentlemanjims-vallejo edan io

Harry’s Sportsman’s Lounge: 833 Texas St , Fairfield,707-422-2940

Jack’s Pub: 605 Main St , Suisun City, 707-429-8266, http://jacks-pub edan io

The Limelight: 558 Parker Road, Fairfield 707-437-5551

Luke’s Lounge: 221 N First St , Dixon 707-678-4177

Merchant and Main Grill & Bar: 349

Merchant St , Vacaville 707-446-0382, www merchantandmaingrill com

Miss Darla’s: 110 Peabody Road, Vacaville 707-446-4131, http://miss-darlas edan io Straw Hat Pizza: 1295 Horizon Drive, Fairfield 707-421-8330, www strawhat pizza com/fairfield

Suisun Valley Filling Station: 2529 Mankas Corner Road, Fairfield 707-863-1555, www suisunvalleyfillingstation com

The Answer Sports Bar and Grill: 4519 Walters Road, Fairfield, 707-4259365, www facebook com/profile

php?id=100083556785215&mib extid=2JQ9oc

The Point: 120 Marina Drive, Rio Vista www pointrestaurant com

The Rellik Tavern: 726 First St , Benicia 707-746-1137, www therelliktavern com

Vezer Family Vineyard: Blue Victorian, 5071 Suisun Valley Road, and Mankas Gardens, 2522 Mankas Corner Road, Fairfield 707-429-3958, www vezerfamilyvineyard com

Vino Godfather Winery: 500 Walnut Ave Mare Island 707-552-2331, www vinogodfather com

Wooden Valley Winery: 4756 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield 707-864-0730, www woodenvalley com

Plenty of recreational options in Solano

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF

DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Whether it’s on a bike, in a boat or inside a tent, there are plenty of recreational opportunities in and around Solano County.

From Rockville Hills Park and Lagoon Valley Park to the Suisun waterfront and Lake Solano Park, you can find a place to ride, fish, camp and even hunt within driving distance.

Here’s a closer look recreational things to do in and around Solano County:

Cycling

Fairfield’s Linear Park, which runs through Fairfield to Solano Community College, is a popular cycling area for beginning riders and families, as well as inline skaters and skateboarders.

Mountain bike enthusiasts can challenge the hills at Rockville Hills Park.

Popular touring routes include the Gordon Valley Loop (along Gordon Valley, Mankas, Wooden Valley, Suisun Valley and Rockville roads) and along Pleasants Valley Road from Vacaville to Lake Solano and back.

Those interested in cycling as part of an organized group can contact the Benicia Bicycle Club at mail@benicia bicycleclub.org

Boating and fishing

Contact the state Department of Fish and Wildlife at 707-428-2002 for regulations and restrictions at various sites.

Civic Center/Dover Park ponds, located behind the Fairfield Civic Center and along Dover Avenue, are a local haven for catfish. Children can fish for free, but adults must have a valid state fishing license.

Lake Berryessa, just across the northern Solano County border in Napa County, is a popular spot for trout, catfish, bass, crappie, bluegill, king salmon and kokanee salmon. Boat ramps, bait and tackle are available at such places as Pleasure Cove Resort and Marian 707-966-9600 and Markley Cove Resort 707-966-2134. All types of boating are allowed on the lake, and water skiing is a favorite activity. Boats and jet skis may be rented at Markley Cove. Call Lake Berryessa Boat and Jet Ski Rentals at 707-966-4204.

The Sacramento River, which forms much of Solano County’s eastern boundary, is noted for striped bass,

Marina Yacht Harbor. (707-374-2315.) For fishing conditions and tackle, call Hap’s Bait and Tackle at 707-374-2372. Montezuma/Suisun sloughs, which run along Grizzly Island, are home to striped bass, sturgeon, catfish and salmon. Free public fishing is available along the Suisun City Marina and at Grizzly Island. For more information, call the Grizzly Island Wildlife Area at 707-425-3828. For fishing conditions and tackle, call Virgil’s Bait Shop at 707-425-5518.

Suisun/Grizzly bays, located just east of the Benicia-Martinez Bridge, is the site of the mothball fleet, a favorite haunt for sturgeon and striped bass. For use by light-draft vessels with local knowledge. Pilot recommended for large vessels bound for points east.

Lake Solano County Park boasts an abundance of trout, catfish, bass and crappie. No motorized boats are allowed. Boat ramp and campsites available. For more information, call Lake Solano County Park at 530-795-2990.

Lagoon Valley Lake has bass, perch and catfish as its main attractions. No motorized boats are allowed, and no swimming is permitted. For more information, call Lagoon Valley Park at 707-469-4020.

Benicia is home to an abundance of

Anglers can also sharpen their skills at Industrial Park, located under the Benicia-Martinez Bridge; the Benicia Marina, between First and East Fifth streets; and Benicia State Park. Striped bass, flounder, sturgeon and salmon can be taken at most locations.

Vallejo is another hot spot for shore anglers, offering proximity to the Napa River and the Mare Island and Carquinez straits. For more information, call Norm’s Bait and Tackle (707-8058812). Those interested in boating safety information can contact the Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons.

Camping

Lake Solano Park has campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis, some of which have trailer hookups. Early arrival is encouraged. There is an extra charge for a campsite with utilities. There is a 10-person, two-car limit per site. Extra cars may be parked in an overflow lot for another fee. The park features swimming, fishing, a boat ramp, volleyball, a horseshoe pit and picnicking. Paddle boat and canoe rentals are available. There are restrooms, showers and a store at the campground, which is patrolled 24 hours a day. For more information

or current campsite rates, call

Sandy Beach Park, located south of Rio Vista, boasts campsites with rates similar to those of Lake Solano Park. Some of the campsites are available by reservation only. The park offers fishing, hiking and boating. Showers and restrooms are available, with a store and Laundromat nearby. For more information, call 707-374-2097. Lake Berryessa also offers camping with tent and RV sites available at Pleasure Cove Resort and Marina, and Steele Canyon Campground. Call 877-386-4383.

Hunting

Grizzly Island Wildlife Area is the county’s major hunting area, with water fowl, tule elk, dove and rabbit most prevalent. Permits are required for all hunts except rabbit. Turkey, pig, crow and deer abound in various areas of the county on public and private property. For more information on hunting seasons and regulations, contact the state Department of Fish and Wildlife Region 3 office in Yountville at 707944-5500 or the Birds Landing Hunting Preserve and Sporting Clays at 707-374-5092 or www.birds landing.net

For hunting safety information or instruction, call the local recreation department or Guns, Fishing in Vacaville at 707-451-1199 or visit www. gunsfishing.com

TODD R. HANSEN THANSEN@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

County Parks expand, updating access, facilities Parks abound, offer quick getaways

Martin Scarborough is a dedicated road cyclist –inspired by the rise of Lance Armstrong in the late 1990s.

Two years ago, he took up mountain biking – and now, Scarborough said, he “combines” the two at Patwino Worrtla Kodoi Dihi Open Space.

“The Patwino park trails have the feel of a long road ride,” Scarborough, 58, of Crocket, said while preparing for a ride on Aug. 6. His middle of three sons, Tommy, 33, was with him. “But there are some different challenges.”

“I prefer that more (technical) rides,” said the younger Scarborough – the kind of uneven, curvy ascents and descents available at the neighboring Rockville Hills park, just down Rockville Road from Patwino.

Chris Drake, the Solano County Parks manager, is a 30-year mountain bike enthusiast.

He said the hills at Patwino Worrtla Kodoi Dihi Open Space will test a cyclist’s endurance, but they are wider and more open with good sightlines for what is ahead – or perhaps more importantly, what is coming the rider’s way.

Hiking and equestrian uses also are allowed at Patwino, and Drake said the park is starting to see a larger horse-riding presence.

What isn’t allowed are dogs.

“We have a lot of wildlife that walk through the park,” said Drake, explaining that the wildlife considers dogs as predators. “So even if it’s just the scent, it can throw off their movement through the park.”

The differences between the two parks have been one of the bigger challenges for the rangers and other staff to get across to the park users.

“It’s a little difficult because (Patwino) is directly across from Rockville park and some people get confused,” Drake said.

Interestingly, the Solano Land Trust and Fairfield, owner of Rockville Hills, are talking about ways to bring the two parks together.

With the addition of Patwino Worrtla Kodoi Dihi Open Space in

August 2024, Drake and his staff manage five parks with a 2025-26 budget of nearly $3.02 million.

The other parks are Sandy Beach, Lake Solano, Lynch Canyon and Belden’s Landing. Combined, the parks represent 3,064 acres. Drake has eight park ranges for the five county-managed parks, and 20 full-time and seasonal park employees.

The parks have long been considered a draw to Solano County, and the most avid supporters believe more can be done to enhance that attraction and blend it with other tourist activities –not the least of which is the Suisun Valley wineries not far from Patwino.

The Solano Land Trust pays for the ranger patrols and other operational costs at Patwino. It is a 10-year contract. The 2024-25 budget was $265,786.

The Land Trust also owns Lynch Canyon. The county has been managing the open space since 2007.

The county has an operational plan for the two open-space parks for extended hours from May 1 through the end of August without crippling the budget or manpower. The hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. with the parks open Friday through Monday.

Sandy Beach, near Rio Vista, attracts the most day users; Lake Solano is the campers’ haven.

The five parks combined, during fiscal year 2024-25, had about 230,000 visitors, and the count is climbing since the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, which shut the

parks down.

Drake said 10 years ago, the visitor count was closer to 200,000, and again, there was an interruption during the Covid years.

Both Sandy Beach and Lake Solano are getting facility updates, funded by more than $2 million in American Rescue Plan Act dollars. The work is expected to be completed in the next two years.

Drake said some of the improvements are not visible to visitors, while improving access for park users with disabilities is also part of the upgrades.

At Sandy Beach, Drake said, access has been improved for the restrooms and to the pathway to the beach, though that work is ongoing.

Similar work is being done at Lake Solano.

“One of the projects we are working on at Lake Solano is a new kayak launch,” Drake said.

A similar launch was added to Belden’s Landing two years ago.

The scars from the LNU fire are still evident at Lake Solano. Work on most of the primary infrastructure needs are done, but Drake said the county has decided to redo the entire playground area sometime in the near future.

The county, at one time, considered forming a countywide park district. Legislation was passed to allow the district to be created. There was public support for the idea.

“But there was not enough interest to fund it,” Drake said.

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Need to get away without going out of the way?

A trip to the park may be just the thing. From large spacious parks such as Allan Witt in Fairfield and Blue Rock Springs in Vallejo, to small neighborhood parks such as Crescent Park in Rio Vista and Southwood Park in Vacaville – Solano County has every imaginable park.

In fact, there are more than 125 parks in the county and it’s safe to say there is a park for everyone. Here’s a look at what’s out there:

Fairfield

Allan Witt: 46 6 acres at 1741 W Texas St Includes seven ball fields, three of which are lighted, as well as two basketball courts, a skatepark, horseshoe pits, 16 Pickleball Court spaces, volleyball courts, a running trail, restrooms, picnic areas, barbecues, playgrounds, eight lighted tennis courts, the Aquatics Complex, and the Fairfield Sports Center Home of Fairfield Pacific Little League, Northern Solano Babe Ruth and the Fairfield Indians collegiate baseball team Civic Center: 8 acres located behind Fairfield City Hall and the Fairfield Community Center Includes two large duck and fish ponds, both of which are popular with youngsters There are also picnic tables, a large grassy area, a bocce ball facility and restrooms A valid California fishing license is required for those 16 and older catching fish

Cordelia: 48 acres at 1300 Gold Hill Road The park includes toddler and youth playgrounds, a multi-use grassy area, picnic and barbecue areas, restrooms, a skate node, dog park, horseshoe pits, bocce, tennis and volleyball courts, fitness stations and the Tri-Valley Little League fields

Dover: An 8 5-acre neighborhood park at 800 E Travis Blvd , it includes two large ponds that are home to ducks and fish, along with a picnic area, gazebo, toddler and youth playgrounds, a large grassy area and walking paths A valid California fishing license is required for those 16 and older catching fish

Gary Falati: The 6 8-acre neighborhood park at 5100 Falati Lane includes toddler and youth playgrounds, an open grassy area, picnic and barbecue areas, basketball half-court, walking paths and a skate node It also features a splash play area that’s usually open from April to October, pending drought conditions

Hayes and Utah Streets Tot Lot: A toddler playground, grassy area and picnic table at 1101 Hayes St , Fairfield Hillview: 5 4 acres at 300 Atlantic Ave , Fairfield The

neighborhood park features a playground, grassy area, walking/running trails, fitness stations, picnic areas and barbecues

Kentucky Street Tot Lot: A playground and picnic table located at 1740 Kentucky St , Fairfield

Laurel Creek: 37 acres among subdivisions along Cement Hill Road Offers a playground, along with four ball fields, two of which are lighted, restrooms, a multi-use field, open grassy areas, fitness stations, walking paths, barbecue and picnic areas, wildlife habitat and creeks Home of Fairfield Atlantic Little League, Fairfield Expos Baseball Association and the NorthBay Elite Futbol Club

Lee Bell: 6 7 acres at 1401 Washington St The neighborhood park Includes a softball field, volleyball court, toddler and youth playgrounds, large grassy area, restrooms, horseshoe pits, volleyball court, barbecues and picnic areas Home of North Bay PONY Baseball

Linear: A narrow, 5 4-mile park that runs along an abandoned railroad right-of-way, stretching from Dover Avenue to Solano Community College Has a trail for bicycling and in-line skating, along with a rose garden and small playgrounds and picnic tables where the park intersects with Second and Fifth streets

Mankas: 5 7 acres at 2800 Owens St , near K I Jones School The neighborhood park features a large slide made of concrete, along with a playground, picnic area, walking paths and a splash play area that’s usually open from April to October, pending drought conditions

Meadow: 4 acres at 1520 Meadowlark Drive The neighborhood park has a large grassy area, a picnic area and playground

Meadow Glen: A 2-acre neighborhood park at 2800 Parkview Terrace off Hill Glen Drive Offers a playground, picnic tables, barbecues and a large open grassy area

Ridgeview: 8 4 acres at 4910 Silver Creek Road near Oakbrook Elementary School The neighborhood park includes toddler and youth playgrounds, picnic areas, barbecues, a ball field, two half-court basketball courts and a view of the hills between Fairfield and Vacaville It also connects with the American Canyon Creek Trail

Rockville Hills: 633 acres of open space on a plateau along Rockville Road The regional park features trails for hiking and mountain biking, and is a popular spot for local running enthusiasts

Rolling Hills: 6 acres at 3520 Glenwood Drive The neighborhood park features toddler and youth playgrounds, picnic area, basketball court and open grassy area

Rolling Hills Open Space: 311 acres located just off Fieldcrest Avenue, near Crownridge Court A nifty place for hiking and viewing wildlife Hiker entrance points include: Rollingwood Drive near the Copperridge Unit; Hillborn Road across from the Realtors building; Off Fieldcrest below the water tank and at the managed wetland on corner; and Hillridge Drive at Union Creek across from the Dunnell property

Serpas Ranch Open Space: The 457-acre open space is located on Sanctuary Drive north of Hilborn Drive and Sanctuary Circle It is accessible from numerous hiking gates in the area

Spyglass Open Space: The city’s smallest open space at 25 acres is accessible off Rustle Court or Waterman Boulevard

Sunrise: 6 9 acres at 2920 Camrose Ave The neighborhood park has toddler and youth playgrounds, picnic areas, fitness stations, walking paths and large open grassy area

Tabor: A 6-acre neighborhood park at 1084 E Tabor Ave , it has youth and toddler playgrounds, picnic tables, walking paths and large open grassy area

Tolenas: 8 2 acres at 1700 Catlin Drive The neighborhood park includes youth and toddler playgrounds, picnic areas, walking paths, barbecues and large open grassy area

Veteran Memorial: 5 acres at 2050 Fairfield Ave

Includes playground, walking paths, picnic tables, fitness stations and grassy hills

Vintage Green Valley: A 6-acre neighborhood park at 600 Vintage Valley Drive It includes a playground with slides, a climbing apparatus modeled after a medieval castle, another climbing apparatus modeled after a dinosaur skeleton, a basketball court, wind sculpture and a nature trail

Woodcreek: 5 3 acres at 1470 Astoria Drive The neighborhood park has a playground, grassy area, picnic area, barbecues, fitness stations and basketball court

Suisun City

Goepp: 5 acres at Pintail and Harrier drives, near Dan O Root Elementary School Features a basketball court, playground, walking trail and picnic area Hall: 10 acres at East Wigeon Way and Pintail Drive, near Suisun Elementary School, the Suisun City Library and the Kroc Center Includes playground and large open grassy area

Harbor Plaza: 1 acre at Main and Solano streets

Features a raised outdoor stage, grass areas, gazebo and is adjacent to the waterfront promenade

Heritage: 10 acres on Village Drive between Merganser and Pintail drives Has a lighted ball field, playground, basketball court, playground, restrooms,

picnic area and walking trail

Independence Park: 5 acres located on Charleston Street between Tucson Circle and Duluth Lane Has a playground, large grassy area and walking trail

Irving S. Lambrecht Sports Complex: 80 acres on Scandia Road Has four Little League fields, four softball diamonds, restrooms and playground Home of Suisun American Little League

Lawler Falls: 3 acres at Mayfield Circle and Hammond Lane Includes a three-level pond with waterfall, walking trail, picnic tables and grassy area

Lawler Ranch: 10 acres along Lawler Ranch Parkway at Johnston Way adjacent to Suisun Marsh Features playgrounds, picnic tables, a small grassy area and a walking trail

Mike Day: 3 acres along Civic Center Boulevard near City Hall Playground and grassy area near Suisun Slough, connects with waterfront trail

McCoy Creek: 1 acre on Anderson Drive Has playground, sand volleyball court, and barbecue and picnic areas

Montebello Vista: 5 acres along Montebello Drive between Capistrano and Bella Vista drives Includes youth ball field, playground, picnic tables, walking trail and large grassy area

Patriot: Located in the Peterson Ranch development on Charleston Street between Little Rock Circle and Vandenberg Circle, the 4-acre park includes two play structures, two half-court basketball courts, a backstop, picnic and seating areas, and a large open field adjacent to a walking trail

Peterson Ranch Linear: 6 acres on the Eastern boundary of Peterson Ranch from Duluth Lane to Andrews Circle Includes walking trail, small grassy area and benches

Sheldon Plaza: 1-acre park on Driftwood Drive between Main Street and Civic Center Boulevard has a small grassy area and is adjacent to the Waterfront Promenade

Vacaville

Al Patch: Located at California Drive and Peabody Road, Al Patch Park features three lighted softball fields, a lighted football field, a track and concessions

It also includes restrooms and water stations

Alamo Creek: 9 5 acres at Alamo Drive and Buck Avenue Has a picnic area, toddler and youth playgrounds, a horseshoe pit, four backstops, basketball half-court, two tennis courts, multi-use field and fitness stations

Alamo School: 2 5 acres at Orchard Avenue and Edgewood Drive Offers large playground, three backstops and multi-purpose field area

Andrews Park: This 17 9-acre site along East Monte Vista Avenue and School Street is home of the Downtown Creekwalk It includes playgrounds, a trail with historical kiosks, restrooms, barbecues and a grassy area

Arbor Oaks: 3 acres at Elmira and Leisure Town Road featuring picnic tables, toddler and youth playgrounds, barbecue facilities and open area

Arlington: 18 acres at Foxboro Parkway and Peabody Road Includes picnic areas, softball fields, Little League field, restrooms, concession stand and TGIFun trailer

Browns Valley: 4 4 acres along Wrentham Drive

Includes a neighborhood recreation center, toddler and youth playgrounds, TGIFun trailer and portable backstop

Cambridge School: 8 acres along Nut Tree Road near Cambridge Elementary School Includes picnic tables, a playground, 2 backstops, 10 station par course and a TGIFun trailer

Cannon Station: 6 5 acres between Opal Drive and Nut Tree Road Features two multipurpose courts for basketball and outdoor hockey, a tennis court, multi-use field, baseball backstop and playground

Parks

Centennial Park: 265 acres on Brown’s Valley Road have been developed Features four baseball fields, four tennis courts, six soccer fields, a Whiffle-ball field, an outdoor roller hockey court, a hiking trail, off leash areas for dogs, restrooms and a concession stand

City Hall: 1 5 acres at City Hall on Walnut Avenue

Features picnic area and bocce ball court

Cooper School: 6 6 acres along Christine Drive, near Cooper School Includes a playground, basketball court, picnic tables, multi-use field and TGIFun trailer

Fairmont/Beelard: 8 3 acres along Beelard Drive

Features multi-use field, basketball court, picnic tables and jogging and bike trail

Fairmont School: 4 acres at Tulare and Marshall roads Offers a playground, backstop, multi-use field and TGIFun trailer

Hawkins: 6 acres at Summerfield Drive and Newport Circle, near Vaca Valley Hospital Includes playground, picnic area, barbecues, two tennis courts, basketball court, exercise stations and horseshoe pit

Hemlock School: 4 acres at Eldridge and Hemlock streets Offers two backstops and a multi-use field

Irene Larsen: On Alamo Drive Includes two softball fields

Keating: 20 acres at Alamo Lane and California Drive

Features seven baseball fields, picnic and barbecue areas, restrooms and concession stands

Lagoon Valley/Peña Adobe: 64 acres in Lagoon Valley off Interstate 80 Features the Peña Adobe home, a California historical landmark Also home to a museum, barbecue area, horseshoe pit, multi-use field, pioneer cemetery, 1-mile bike trail, antique farm equipment, nature plant guard and 52 acres of open space Nearby, Lagoon Valley Lake at 470-acre Lagoon

Includes playgrounds, basketball court, gazebo with picnic tables, restrooms and a grassy area

with backstop

Meadowlands: 8 acres at Vanden Road and Woodbridge Drive, near Callison School Includes playground, restrooms, multi-use field, basketball court, TGIFun trailer and picnic area

Nelson: 10 5 acres at Nut Tree and Marshall roads, near Notre Dame School Features two softball fields, playground, picnic area, restrooms and multi-use field

Normandy Meadows: 14,000 square feet of turf on Chateau Way with no amenities

North Orchard: 6 5 acres along North Orchard Avenue, near Orchard Elementary School Contains a half-court basketball court, playground, jogging and bike trails, multi-use field, picnic tables and four tennis courts

Padan: 6 7 acres on Padan School Road near Eugene Padan School Has a basketball court, multi-use field, two soccer goals, two backstops, jogging trail, TGIFun trailer center, fitness circuit and playground

Patwin: 5 acres at Elmira and Leisure Town roads Has basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoe pit, playground, barbecues, picnic area and multi-use field

Pheasant Country: 7 acres at Caldwell Drive and Madison Avenue Features playground, tot lot, basketball court, multi-use field, 10-station fitness course, barbecues and picnic areas

Ridgeview: 7 acres on Tipperary Drive Offers a playground, basketball court, multipurpose field, fitness circuit and picnic areas

Senior Center: 1 6 acres along Ulatis Creek to Senior Center Offers picnic tables and a large shaded area

Sierra Vista School: 8 acres along Bel Air Drive, near Sierra Vista School Includes jogging path and multi-use field

Southwood: 4 acres on Southwood Drive Features picnic area, playground, basketball court, fitness circuit and horseshoe pit It also provides access to

course, multipurpose field and basketball court

Three Oaks Community Center: 5 acres at 1100 Alamo Drive Features swimming pool and four lighted tennis courts

Trower: 4 5 acres along Markham Avenue between Meadows Drive and Holly Lane Includes basketball court, picnic area, barbecue, playground and a Boys and Girls Club

Willows: 2 acres along Ogden Way off Marshall Road Has picnic tables, playground, multi-use field and basketball court

Rio Vista

Basketball Courts: The courts, located at Poppy House Road and Sullivan Street, also have picnic tables and benches

Bruning: A 1 4-acre community park that is adjacent to the downtown area between Third and Fourth streets, and Bruning Avenue and Montezuma Street Park contains the city’s public swimming pool and features a playground, barbecues, picnic tables and large grassy area

Crescent: Small park at Crescent Drive just off Logan Street has a half-court basketball court, barbecue pits, picnic tables and playground

Drouin: 1 1-acre park on Drouin Drive between Sierra Drive and Amador Circle contains grass field, picnic tables and playground

Egbert Field: Located along St Francis Street between Rolling Green Drive and Poppy House Road, the 5-acre park has one youth baseball and one adult/Babe Ruth baseball/softball field and restrooms Fields are also used for youth soccer

Harris DeSilva Skateboard Park: The 6-structure skateboard park is located next to the Police Department on Poppy House Road

Homecoming: 1-acre park at the corner of Fisher Street and Madere Way features grassy area,

Sandy Beach: Situated along the Sacramento River just south of Rio Vista at 2333 Beach Drive, Sandy Beach Park is a great place for jet-skiing, pleasure boating, wind surfing and sailing, as well as land-lubbing activities such as volleyball, horseshoe pitching, picnicking and camping

Val DeFlores: Located behind DH White Elementary School on Scott Street, Rio Vista’s second-largest park is 3 2 acres, with space for two youth soccer fields It also has picnic tables and restrooms

Waterfront Promenade: Located on the Sacramento River next to the Rio Vista Bridge, the park features a fishing dock, fish-cleaning station, picnic tables, barbecues and restrooms It’s a popular place to go for a walk or a jog

Dixon

Conejo: 3-acre neighborhood park is located at 1500 Fulmor Drive It offers picnic facilities, a playground and open space

Pat Granucci Aquatics Center: at 450 E Mayes St , the center has wading/play, training and competition pools Available for reservation

Hall: Located at 245 E Chestnut St , the 52-acre park features tennis courts, group picnic areas, playground, horseshoe pits, softball fields, Little League fields, swimming pool, skateboard park, covered sports arena, outdoor basketball court, multi-use playing field and amphitheater

Linear Path: Regency Parkway to North Lincoln Street Lit pathway with park benches and par course stations

Northwest: 22 5 acres at 1200 Parkgreen Drive Offers picnic facilities for groups and families, playgrounds, soccer fields, large grassy area and lighted basketball courts

Patwin: The 5-acre neighborhood park is located at 1600 W H St Playground, basketball court, grassy area and picnic facilities

Veterans: 5-acre neighborhood park at 1300 Valley Glen Drive has covered picnic facilities, basketball courts, playground, youth and toddler playgrounds, climbing wall and large grassy area

Women’s Improvement Club: Along North First Street next to the Dixon Library It features picnic tables and park benches, and plays host to the city’s summer movie series

Benicia

Benicia Point Pier: End of First Street Features fishing access with restrooms

Bridgeview: Off Shirley Drive Includes picnic areas, a playground, grassy areas and basketball courts

Channing Circle: At 800 Channing Drive Has a playground and grassy areas

City: Located at First Street and Military West Offers picnic areas, a playground, restrooms, grassy areas and barbecues

Civic Center: At 151 E K St Includes a picnic area, playground, restrooms, grassy areas, tennis courts and barbecues

Community: At Rose and Dempsey drives Offers picnic areas, playgrounds, restrooms, grassy areas, a skate park, ballfields and barbecues

D Street Square: On D Street Has a playground, restrooms and basketball courts

Duncan Graham: Located at Hillcrest and Vista Grande avenues Features a playground, grassy areas and basketball courts

11 libraries serve Solano communities

Parks

From Page 41

Ethelree Saraiva: At East Sixth at East L streets Offers a picnic area, playground, grassy areas and basketball courts

Francesca Terrace: Found at the foot of Hillcrest Avenue Features a picnic area, playground, restrooms, grassy areas, basketball courts and barbecues

Frank Skillman: At Rose and Gallagher drives Includes a picnic area, playground, grassy areas, basketball courts and barbecues

Gateway: Along Barton Way Has a playground and grassy area

Jack London: Located at Rose and Hastings drives Features a picnic area, playground, restrooms, grassy areas, ballfields, basketball courts and barbecues

Lake Herman: On Lake Herman Road Includes a picnic area, restrooms, grassy areas and fishing access

Matthew Turner: At the foot of West 12th Street Has a picnic area, restrooms, grassy areas and fishing access

Overlook: Along Seaview Drive Has a picnic area, playground, grassy areas and barbecues

Park Solano: At Hastings and Solano drives Includes a picnic area, playground, grassy areas and barbecues

Southhampton: At Chelsea Hills and Panorama drives Features a picnic area, playground, grassy areas, basketball courts and barbecues

Turnbull: At the Benicia Marina Has a picnic area, restrooms, grassy areas and basketball courts

Waters End: At Mcallister and Rose, has picnic, playground, turf and restrooms

Willow Glen: At West K and West Seventh streets Offers a playground, restrooms and grassy areas

Vallejo

Beverly Hills: 11 acres on Del Sur Street, with a playground, walking trail and grass play areas

Blue Rock Springs: 29 acres at 650 Columbus Parkway featuring large picnic areas with barbecues, an open field, children’s playground, a small lake and

restrooms There’s also a 2,500-foot hiking trail It’s next to Blue Rock Springs Golf Course

Borges Ranch: 3 acres on Borges Lane with a playground, multi-use field, picnic tables and a walking trail

Carquinez: 5 acres at Porter Street and Sandy Beach Road with picnic tables and open grassy areas

Castlewood: 5 acres at the 700 block of Heartwood Avenue Offers a playground, lighted tennis courts, open grass area, community buildings and an aquatics center with restrooms

City: 2 5 acres, at the corner of Sacramento and Louisiana streets It has a children’s playground, picnic tables, grassy play area, restrooms and horseshoe pits

Crest Ranch: 11 acres at Gateway Drive and Nicole Way Includes a playground, picnic tables, softball fields, soccer field, basketball courts, horse shoe pit and restroom

Dan Foley: 60 acres, making it the largest park in the city, at the east end of North Camino Alto with lighted baseball and softball diamonds, a multi-use field, a basketball court, picnic areas, barbecues, playground, tot lot, restrooms, fishing dock and walking trail around Lake Chabot

Delta Meadows: 4 acres at Jack London and Candy drives Offers a playground, half basketball courts and a 700-foot trail

Fairmont: 1 acre at Viewmont and Edgemont avenues

Playground, picnic tables and grassy area

Glen Cove School: 4 acres at 501 Glen Cove Parkway Features a playground, unlighted tennis courts, restroom, multi-use field, picnic tables and soccer field

Glen Cove Nature Area: 15 acres on Whitesides Drive off Regatta Drive Undeveloped park with trail connections to the San Francisco Bay Trail

Grant Mahoney: 1 5 acres at Mariposa and Arkansas streets Has a playground, grassy area, picnic tables, rose garden and community building

Hanns Memorial: 21 acres at Redwood Parkway and Skyline Drive Heavily-shaded picnic areas with barbecues, an amphitheater, restroom, multi-use play areas, and a 6,000-foot trail leading to the Blue Rock Springs linear parkway

Henry Ranch: 3 acres at Severus and Auburn drives Offers a playground, grassy play fields and perimeter

DAILY REPUBLIC STAFF DRNEWS@DAILYREPUBLIC.NET

Benicia Public Library

150 E L St Phone: 707-746-4343

Dixon Public Library

230 N First St Phone: 866-572-7587

Fairfield Civic Center Library 1150 Kentucky St 866-572-7587

Fairfield Cordelia Library 5050 Business Center Drive 866-572-7587

John F Kennedy Library 505 Santa Clara St , Vallejo 866-572-7587

Rio Vista Library

walking trail

Hiddenbrooke Park: Located at 7108 Alder Creek Road, the park includes a playground, basketball courts, bocce ball courts, picnic tables and restrooms

Highlands: 7 acres off Columbus Parkway at Regents

Park Drive Includes a playground, open grassy play areas and basketball courts

Independence: 1 acre at Mare Island Way and Maine Street Fishing access and a walkway along the Mare Island Strait, with restroom building

Lake Dalwigk: 11 acres off Curtola Parkway Features a playground, picnic tables, basketball courts, restrooms, grassy play area and a perimeter walking trail that provides access over Curtola Parkway to Wilson Park

North Vallejo Community: 10 acres at Whitney Avenue and Fairgrounds Drive, featuring a community center, playground, basketball court, lighted baseball field, multi-use and restrooms

Richardson: 12 acres at 325 Richardson Drive off Sereno Drive Offers a playground, open grassy areas, picnic tables with barbecues, lighted ball field (Madren Field), and restrooms

River: Located at Wilson Avenue and Farragut Street, the park features a 3,200-foot trail

Setterquist: 10 acres at Mini Drive and Stanford

Avenue Includes a playground, grassy play areas, Little League fields and six tennis courts

Sheveland: 1 acre at the top of Coghlan Street at Harrier Avenue Playground, barbecues and small grassy areas for picnicking

Terrace: 11 acres at Selfridge Street and Gardner

Avenue Offers a playground, grassy play areas, picnic tables with barbecues and a ball field

Wardlaw West: 3 2 acres at 1698 Oakwood Ave

Features grassy play areas, a soccer field, a playground, basketball courts (adjoining Wardlaw School) and a multi-use field

Wardlaw East: 9 6 acres off Ascot Parkway across from Bethel High School Offers a youth soccer field with a 17,000 square-foot hybrid skateboard and BMX park, a 2 2-acre dog park, picnic areas, restrooms and a pedestrian bridge connection to the Blue Rock

Springs corridor

Washington: 2 acres at Napa and Ohio streets

Features a ball field, large grassy area and playground

44 S Second St 866-572-7587

Solano County Law Library Hall of Justice - 3rd floor

600 Union Ave , Fairfield 707-421-6520

Springstowne Library 1003 Oakwood Ave , Vallejo 866-572-7587

Suisun City Library 601 Pintail Drive 866-572-7587

Vacaville Public LibraryCultural Center 1020 Ulatis Drive 866-572-7587

Vacaville Public Library-Town Square 1 Town Square Place 866-572-7587

Wilson: 17 acres at Solano Avenue and Wilson Street

Includes a playground, open grassy areas, shaded picnic areas with barbecues, lighted and unlighted ball fields, a multi-use field, restrooms and perimeter walking trails that provide pedestrian access over Curtola Parkway to Lake Dalwigk Park

Solano County Parks

(Check for closures due to weather issues)

Jepson Prairie Preserve: Located at 4845 Cook Lane 10 miles south of Dixon, the preserve is dry and dormant most of the year but is transformed in springtime by winter rains into a tapestry of stunning colors Its vernal pools host a rich diversity of rare aquatic life

King-Swett Ranches: A 4,000-acre expanse located between Interstates 680 and 80 near Fairfield (to the northeast), Benicia (to the south) and Vallejo (to the west) and straddles the southwestern corner of Solano County Views from atop King Ranch sweep across the Suisun Marsh all the way to the Sierra Nevada, with Mount Diablo rising to the south On the western edge of Vallejo-Swett Ranch, views include the Golden Gate Bridge and Mount Tamalpais, the San Francisco and San Pablo Bays, and the Napa River and marshes

Lake Solano: Located west of Winters along Putah Creek at 8685 Pleasants Valley Road, Lake Solano caters to a number of outdoor activities, including fishing, camping, swimming, boating, hiking, birdwatching and bicycling

Lynch Canyon Open Space: 1,039 acres located just north of Interstate 80 between American Canyon Road and Highway 12 Seven trails in varying lengths allow for hiking, bicycling and horseback riding

Patwino Worrtla Kodoi Dihi Open Space Park: Formerly Rockville Trails Preserve 1,500 acres along Rockville Road, across from Rockville Hills Regional Park in Fairfield Site is filled with stands of blue and live oaks, temporal vernal pools, wildflowers and wildlife

Rush Ranch: About 2,000 acres 2 5 miles south of Highway 12 on Grizzly Island Road Includes three trails and a museum featuring Rush family artifacts and exhibits on the indigenous Native Americans and wildlife

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