The Vallejo community is coming together to support various initiatives, with upcoming fundraisers and service projects making a significant impact. On January 17, 2024, the Napa-Solano Building Trades hosted its 26th Annual Crab Feed at the Vallejo Veterans Memorial Building (VVMB). This popular event attracted over 500 attendees, highlighting the community’s involvement and support for local causes.
In preparation for the next fundraiser, scheduled for March 7, 2024, at 6 p.m., the VVMB invites residents to participate in an “all-you-can-eat” crab dinner, featuring pasta, salad, garlic bread, and a raffle, all for $70 per person. Those interested can reach out to Building Manager Kayla via email at [email protected] or by phone at (707) 551-9435 or (707) 644-3097.
Aside from culinary events, community service is also a focal point. On January 31, volunteers from Rebuilding Together Solano County (RTSC) installed free smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors for residents at Vallejo Mobile Home Estates Park. These efforts aim to enhance safety and awareness among residents.
The Florence Douglas Center, known for hosting the Vallejo Senior Roundtable, held its monthly meeting on February 2. The event, facilitated by Tom Bartee, a former Vallejo City Council member, featured guest speakers Tracee Stacy, a Prevention and Early Access for Senior (PEAS) Education & Outreach Specialist, and Tara Beasley-Stansberry, a Planning Commissioner and Vallejo City Council District 5 candidate. Such gatherings often attract proxies from local government representatives, ensuring that community voices are heard.
In a spiritual context, St. Catherine of Siena recently welcomed young adults into its Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) program. During the absence of permanent pastor Father Glenn Jaron, visiting priests Father Pierre Celestin Musoni and Father Jess Soriano led the ceremony. The church actively supports various community initiatives, including Mensa Christie, which provides over 1,500 hot meals weekly to Vallejo’s homeless population. For further information on their programs, visit www.StCatherineVallejo.org.
In military news, Chief Petty Officer Robert Bienkowski, a native of American Canyon, continues to serve the U.S. Navy at Afloat Training Group San Diego. Bienkowski, who graduated from American Canyon High School in 2008, has been with the Navy for 16 years and currently works as an operations specialist.
He credits his upbringing in American Canyon for instilling values that have contributed to his success. “I learned growing up that anything is possible if you put your mind to it and put in the work to help you succeed,” he stated. Bienkowski’s family has a rich military history, with uncles serving and his grandfather being a retired Navy master chief.
Earning the rank of chief petty officer is among his proudest accomplishments. “I originally planned to get out of the Navy after my initial four years, but I stuck with it, and I’m glad I did,” he shared, expressing gratitude for the support from his family. “I would like to thank my parents, my three brothers, and my son for holding down the fort.”
This combination of community engagement and individual service underscores the spirit of Vallejo. From fundraising events to crucial safety initiatives, local organizations and residents are demonstrating their commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all.
