On January 17, the Napa-Solano Building Trades hosted its 26th Annual Crab Feed at the Vallejo Veterans Memorial Building (VVMB), drawing over 500 attendees. This popular event not only celebrated community spirit but also showcased the dedication of numerous volunteers at the VVMB. Featured at the event were Vietnam War combat veterans, including Steve Fox and U.S. Representative Mike Thompson, who actively contributed to the festivities.
The VVMB is set to hold another significant fundraiser on March 7, 2023, at 18:00 at 420 Admiral Callaghan Lane. Guests can enjoy an “all-you-can-eat” feast that includes crab, pasta, salad, and garlic bread for just $70 per person. For inquiries, attendees can reach Building Manager Kayla at [email protected] or call (707) 551-9435 or (707) 644-3097.
In a separate initiative, volunteers from Rebuilding Together Solano County (RTSC) made a meaningful impact on January 31 by installing free smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors for residents at Vallejo Mobile Home Estates Park. This effort underscores the organization’s commitment to enhancing community safety and well-being.
The Florence Douglas Center also played a vital role in community engagement on February 2. During its monthly Vallejo Senior Roundtable, hosted by former Vallejo City Council member Tom Bartee, informative discussions took place. Guests included Tracee Stacy, a Prevention and Early Access for Senior (PEAS) Education & Outreach Specialist, and Tara Beasley-Stansberry, a Planning Commissioner and candidate for Vallejo City Council District 5. Proxies for local officials, including U.S. Representative John Garamendi and State Senator Christopher Cabaldon, routinely attend these meetings, highlighting the importance of civic participation.
In religious and community service news, St. Catherine of Siena in Vallejo recently welcomed several young adults into its Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) program. While permanent pastor Father Glenn Jaron was on bereavement leave, visiting priests Father Pierre Celestin Musoni and Father Jess Soriano led the ceremony. The church is also known for its Mensa Christie ministry, which delivers over 1,500 hot meals weekly to Vallejo’s homeless community, demonstrating a strong commitment to social responsibility.
Highlighting personal achievements, Chief Petty Officer Robert Bienkowski, a native of American Canyon, serves in the U.S. Navy with the Afloat Training Group San Diego. A graduate of American Canyon High School in 2008, Bienkowski joined the Navy 16 years ago, inspired by a family legacy of military service. He currently works as an operations specialist, emphasizing that the values learned during his upbringing directly contribute to his success in the armed forces.
Bienkowski expressed pride in earning the rank of chief petty officer, stating, “Earning the rank of chief petty officer is my proudest accomplishment.” He initially planned to leave the Navy after four years but chose to remain, finding fulfillment in his service. He appreciates the opportunities the Navy provides and extends gratitude to his family for their support throughout his career.
These events and initiatives reflect the vibrant community spirit in Vallejo, showcasing a commitment to service, safety, and support for one another.
