Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Architects Sought to Design Highway Signs

Architects Sought to Design Highway Signs

SUISUN CITY - The Suisun City Redevelopment Agency has issued a Request for Qualifications to assist in identifying a professional sign design/architectural firm to work collaboratively with staff and an ad hoc committee to develop enhanced highway signage at the main easterly entrance to Suisun City, California.

The Agency has spent considerable time and resources reviving the economy of the Waterfront District. As more businesses located in the Waterfront District and marketing programs have generated increased interest in the Waterfront District as a destination, the need for enhanced signage has become apparent.

The Agency Board has authorized staff and the ad hoc committee to pursue designs of two signature sign features:

  • An electronic reader board to be located on Highway 12 at the southeast corner of Pennsylvania Avenue; and
  • An “iconic” sign near the Suisun City Train Station announcing the Waterfront District as a destination to motorists traveling east bound on Highway 12.

Saturday, December 26, 2009

How to Make Your Christmas Tree Work for the Earth

SUISUN CITY - Now that Christmas is officially over, a lot of people want to get their live tree out of the house. If it is tender dry and dropping its needles, you need to get it out of your home to eliminate a fire hazard.

Rather than have the tree hauled to the landfill, here is how to make sure your tree is converted in reusable mulch for use in landscaping and other beneficial uses that eventually returns it to the soil.

First, remove all the decorations, nails and spikes from the tree.

Once you have a bare tree, you may cut it up into branches and sections that fit into your green waste cart. Make sure your cart lid closes. Solano Garbage will pick it up on your next regular refuse collection day. For more info, call Solano Garbage at 707-437-8900.

Another option is to call the Boy Scouts to schedule a special collection pickup on January 2 or January 9. They ask for a donation of $5 for trees under 6 feet, $10 for taller trees, and $10 for flocked or tinseled trees. Call the Boy Scouts at 707-421-5308.

For more information on household recycling, visit www.recycle-guide.com.

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Suisun City Police Launch Program to Combat DUI Deaths and Injuries

New enforcement measures to combat impaired driving are coming in 2010 as a result of the Suisun City Police Department being awarded a $97,827 traffic safety grant for a year-long anti-DUI program aimed at preventing deaths and injuries on our roadways.

“Keeping our streets safe from drunk drivers is one of the Department’s top priorities this year. Our officers will be on patrols looking for drunk drivers and we will have a zero tolerance,” Suisun City Police Chief Ed Dadisho said.

The special DUI Enforcement and Awareness grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety will assist in efforts to reduce the number of persons killed and injured in collisions related to alcohol and other drugs.

Grant activities will specifically target impaired driving offenders as well as educate the public on the dangers of impaired driving. This will be done through the use of DUI/driver’s license checkpoints, warrant searches and stakeouts for repeat DUI offenders, saturation patrols, and court stings targeting DUI offenders with suspended or revoked driver licenses who get behind the wheel after leaving court.

During a recent DUI/driver's license checkpoint operation, the Suisun City Police Department
  • Screened 964 vehicles
  • Conducted 4 field sobriety tests resulting in one arrest
  • Issued 12 non-DUI related citations
  • Towed 12 vehicles
Drunk driving is one of America’s deadliest crimes. In 2008, over 11,700 people died in highway crashes involving a driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher.

“Last year in California 1,029 died in alcohol impaired crashes, a 9 percent reduction in deaths from 2007,” said Christopher J. Murphy, Director of the Office of Traffic Safety. “This grant will help keep that trend going by getting drunk drivers off the roadways of Suisun City, making it safer for everyone.”

New this year is the addition of special Motorcycle Safety Enforcement Operations. Motorcycle fatalities have been on the rise in California, increasing 175 percent statewide in the last decade, from 204 killed in 1998 to 560 killed in 2008.

Suisun City police officers will be conducting specialized enforcement efforts throughout the course of the next year. Extra officers will be on duty patrolling areas frequented by motorcycles. Officers will be cracking down on traffic violations made by motorcyclists, and other vehicle drivers, that result in far too many motorcycle collisions, injuries and deaths.

Funding for the grant comes from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Travis AFB Plans Mass Launch Drill for Monday

TRAVIS AFB, Calif. – It won’t be Santa’s reindeer streaking across Northern California skies Dec. 21 but tankers and cargo aircraft from Travis. The base will conduct its first-ever “mass” aircraft launch starting around 10 a.m.

Travis will be launching up to six KC-10s, two C-17 Globemasters and a C-5 Galaxy cargo aircraft in succession. Once airborne, the aircraft will fly in formation then separate to fly normal low-level and air refueling routes. At that point, residents should not notice anything different than on a normal day of flying, said Lt. Col. Jeffrey Cooper, 60th Operations Squadron commander.

"This ‘mass’ launch will give the 60th and 349th Air Mobility Wing’s operations, maintenance and support folks a chance to train together on a larger scale than normal,” said Colonel Cooper. The maintenance squadron rarely gets the opportunity to generate, launch and recover so many aircraft at one time, he said.

More than 330 training events will be conducted during the flights. The 615th Contingency Response Wing at Travis will control the C-17 aircraft during landing exercises.

The 60th AMW is the largest air mobility organization in the Air Force and handles more cargo and passengers than any other U.S. military terminal. The wing operates and maintains C-5 and C-17 transport aircraft along with KC-10 aerial refueling aircraft that can fly peacetime and combat support missions anywhere in the world as directed by the Department of Defense.

A solution for the hard-to-find gift

Having a hard time finding the right gift for that special person who has everything? Is this weekend your last chance to go shopping?

Try the brand new gift shop at The Lawler House Gallery!

The Suisun City Waterfront District Artists have added a terrific gift shop to the art gallery on the first floor of Lawler House (718 Main Street, Suisun City). They're open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday.

They have prints, photographs, jewelry and many more items for sale created by some of the region's most creative artists. The items for sale change all the time as artists create new unique items of art. >> Learn more about the Lawler House Gallery>>

While you're in the Suisun City Waterfront District, check out the local boutiques and salons, or try one of the dozen or so unique family-owned restaurants offering a wide variety of cuisine choices. >>More about the Waterfront District>>

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Solano College Theatre Announces an Evening with Tom Hanks

Two-time Oscar winner Tom Hanks will make a one-night only fundraising appearance at Solano College Theatre in Fairfield on February 6, 2010. Mr. Hanks’ visit will include a presentation on the Campus Theatre stage, as well as a dinner with guests.

An Evening with Tom Hanks will begin with a special meal at 4:30 p.m. with Mr. Hanks in the Solano Community College dining hall. The dinner will feature entertainment by past and present SCT Actor Training Program students as well as a catered dinner and wine exclusively provided by Green Valley Cellars of Suisun Valley. Tickets for the dinner are $100.

After the fundraising dinner, Mr. Hanks will move into the Campus Theatre to give a first-person exploration of non-fiction film entertainment, utilizing clips from his movies as well as from other documentaries. The presentation will also include an exclusive preview of Mr. Hanks’ newest project, The Pacific, a ten-part miniseries executive-produced by Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman and set in the Pacific Theatre during WWII, which will premier on HBO in March 2010. An audience-interactive question and answer period will conclude the evening’s presentation. Tickets for the presentation are also $100.

Sponsors of the event include Advocates for the Arts, NorthBay Healthcare and Copart.

Tickets for both the dinner and the theatre presentation go on sale to the general public on January 14th at noon. SCT subscribers can begin buying tickets to the event on January 7th at noon. Tickets can be purchased by calling (707) 864-7100 or in person at the Harbor Theatre Box Office at 720 Main Street in the Suisun City Waterfront District. Box Office hours are Tuesday-Saturday from noon to 5 p.m.

All proceeds from the event will go to support the Tom Hanks/Rita Wilson Endowment Fund which was established by the actor and director earlier this year. The fund is a living legacy from Mr. Hanks and honors students as well as his long friendship with SCT Artistic Director George Maguire. The endowment will support the programs and students in the Solano Community College Theatre Arts department.

Mr. Maguire met Mr. Hanks at Great Lakes Shakespeare Festival in Cleveland, OH, 32 years ago and the two have maintained a close friendship ever since. Mr. Hanks is a strong supporter of the arts and arts education. The Theatre Arts Department at Solano Community College is one of the few schools Mr. Hanks is kind enough to support.

For further information, contact Amy Lenahan, Marketing Associate, at (707) 864-7000, ext. 4541 or amy.lenahan@solano.edu. Press passes are available to the stage presentation only, but are extremely limited and offered on a first come, first served basis.

Celebrate the Holidays with Suisun Valley Wine Country

The holiday season is a great time for family, celebration, relaxation and wine. Particularly, Suisun Valley wine.

Our own Wine Country is getting quite a bit of attention across the region leading up to the annual Suisun Valley AVA Anniversary Celebrations! Suisun Valley not only shares a distinct name with Suisun City, it is also a great place to take family and friends who want to try a great selection of wines, without having to deal with the headaches of Napa Valley. Plus, we have a local hotel special!

COMSTOCK'S ARTICLE

In it's December issue, Comstock's Magazine - the Sacramento region's leading business publication - asked a number of wine and food gurus to sample Suisun Valley wines and make their recommendations about wine and food pairings. This is a great little piece for wine novices and experienced enthusiasts alike!
>> See that full article here >>

SUISUN VALLEY WINE CELEBRATION

Right after Christmas, the Suisun Valley celebrates it's anniversary as an established appellation with a weekend of winery events, including two days of special tastings on Dec. 26 & 27 at
Plus there's the Special Winemaker Reception & Dinner on Dec. 29!
>>Get all the celebration details!>>

INSIDERS' TIP

The brand new Hampton Inn & Suites Suisun City Waterfront has a terrific Wine Lovers Package! Overnight stay, limo to The Valley, plus wine discounts!

Make sure to ask about this package! >>Get all the details!>>

>>Learn more about Hampton Inn & Suites holiday special>>

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Lawler House Gallery to Host Book Signing

SUISUN CITY -- Lawler House Gallery of Suisun City is proud to announce the addition of artist and author Jo Ann Brown-Scott to the family of artists represented.

Brown-Scott’s art, mixed-media contemporary collage, employing exotic papers and fabrics, will be showing beginning December 5, 2009.

In addition, Lawler House Gallery will host a book signing for Brown-Scott’s award-winning book titled “THE CREATIVE EPIPHANY Gifted Minds, Grand Realizations” in the new gift shop at Lawler House on Saturday, December 5, 2009 at 2pm until 6pm.

Lawler House Gallery is located at 718 Main Street, Suisun City, CA 94585. The Gallery is open Friday through Sunday from 11 a.m to 5 p.m.

Preview the Art and the Book at www.epiphanysfriends.com and www.tenspeedstudio.com

For information about more great events in Suisun City's Waterfront District, go to VisitSuisunCity.com.

Holly Stell in Concert in Suisun City

SUISUN CITY - Holly Stell performs as part of the Wednesday Club of Suisun's Young Artist Series at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009.

Dubbed "Petite Pavarotti," Holly Stell has an exceptional gift for singing opera. Still a teenager, this vocal prodigy has garnered worldwide acclaim forher angelic stage presence and heartfelt emotional delivery. A native of Vacaville, Holly has performed on some of the biggest stages in the world.

This performance at the historic Wednesday Club of Suisun, 225 Sacramento Street, Suisun City, is a unique opportunity to hear Holly upclose in an intimate performance setting.

Tickets: $10; available at Gordon's Music or Vacaville Music.

For additional information, call 707-631-4852.

Go to VisitSuisunCity.com for more exciting holiday events.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

NorthBay Healthcare Offers Free H1N1 Vaccinations Today

NorthBay Healthcare will sponsor a trio of free drive-through H1N1 vaccination clinics in Vacaville and Fairfield Wednesday, Nov. 25.

Vaccine is offered free of charge, regardless of health plan affiliation.

Vaccinations begin at 8 a.m. and continue until 2 p.m., or until the supply of approximately 1,500 doses is exhausted. Both injections and the nasal flu mist vaccine are available.

The drive-through clinics will be conducted at these locations of the NorthBay Center for Primary Care:
• 421 Nut Tree Road, Vacaville
• 2458 Hilborn Road, Fairfield
• 5140 Business Center Drive, Green Valley

The one-day drive-through clinics are open to all people except individuals showing any signs of illness, including respiratory infection, fever, coughing or flu- or cold-like symptoms.

Clinic officials suggest wearing light clothing, or short-sleeve shirts, making it easier to receive the injections.

Another way to shorten the time it takes to get through the line is to fill out a consent form in advance. Those wishing to be vaccinated can find the consent forms for adults and children online at newsroom.northbay.org/fluconsentform.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Solano College Theatre Casting "Our Town"

Auditions December 7 & 8, 2009.
Callbacks December 9, 2009.

Fairfield, CA – November 4, 2009 – Solano College Theatre announces auditions for our upcoming production, the American classic Our Town, by Thornton Wilder. George Maguire will direct this non-traditional quasi-contemporary look at the play.

Auditions will be held Dec. 7 and 8, 2009 from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Harbor Theatre, 720 Main Street, Suisun City. Callbacks will be Dec. 9, 2009, from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. With a cast of 18-20, all roles are available and all ethnicities are welcome; all actors are encouraged to audition. Auditions will consist of a reading from the script. If the director does not know you, you may use a simple contemporary monologue. No accents or regionalisms will be used in this production, although the time period and placement of New Hampshire will not be altered.

Please see www.solanocollegetheatre.org for more information and a complete listing of roles available.

Call the Solano College Theatre production office at (707) 864-7000, ext. 4518 to schedule an audition appointment.

Rehearsals for Our Town begin Jan. 19, 2010. Performances begin March 4, 2010 (preview March 3) and run through March 21, 2010 at the Harbor Theatre.

In the tiny town of Grover’s Corners, love, disappointment, joy and heartbreak transform ordinary lives into something extraordinary. With a set by conceptual designer Nina Ball, whose magical work for Shotgun Players recently included Jon Tracy’s provocative The Farm, Maguire and his team of collaborators will take a fresh and new look at this seminal American play. Rated G.

To schedule an audition appointment, please call (707) 864-7000, ext. 4518.

For further press information, contact Amy Lenahan, Marketing Associate, at (707) 864-7000 x4541 or Amy.Lenahan@solano.edu

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Teens create haunted house adventure at Suisun City library

By Talia Sampson | Daily Republic | October 27, 2009 16:42

SUISUN CITY - The Suisun City Library will be transformed into a 'Haunted Toy Store' Thursday with six different scary rooms staffed by local teen volunteers as part of various family activities scheduled for an early Halloween celebration.

The rooms will include a doll house, a mad scientist lab, a fortune teller room, a clown room, a fairy tale room and a G.I. Joe Army room, said event organizer Mikayla Forkes, 16.

'We built walls within the meeting room that are separated by archways,' said Forkes, a senior at Armijo High School.

The event is aimed at children in middle school or younger, Forkes said, adding that there is a system in place to tone down the fear factor for younger children.

'For kids that are young, we encourage parents to come through with the kids,' Forkes said. 'We'll ask parents. 'Are they scared easily?' so everyone is aware. We can change it per kid so we're not scaring everyone who's too frightened to come through.'

>> Click here for a full listing Halloween events in Suisun City >>

To read the full article, go to www.dailyrepublic.com

Rodriguez Takes 'Steel Magnolias' on the Road

SUISUN CITY'S HARBOR THEATER HOSTS PRODUCTION

By Talia Sampson | Daily Republic | October 27, 2009 18:14
Cast members of Rodriguez High School's production of "Steel Magnolias" run through a dress rehearsal of the play Tuesday evening at the Suisun Harbor Theatre. The theater will allow the students to have a more realistic experience producing the play according to the school's drama teacher, Nathan Day. Photo by Brad Zweerink
SUISUN CITY - For the first time in about 15 years, a Fairfield-Suisun School District high school will offer a play off campus at a local theater.

Rodriguez High School's fall production of 'Steel Magnolias' will take place at the Suisun Harbor Theater, 720 Main St. in Suisun City.

'Our (campus) theater is a black box that was originally built to be an auto shop and they converted it into a theater,' said Nathan Day, the theater teacher and director for Rodriguez. 'It's nice to be able to offer the kids a more realistic theater experience where they don't have to set up chairs and take them down after the show to set up the room for class the next week.'

As a graduate of the Solano Community College theater program, Day stayed in touch with contacts from the program who let him know about the opportunity to perform at the Suisun Harbor Theater. The college program advertised 'Steel Magnolias' in its programs for 'The Producers,' which ended its run Oct. 18.

The drama club at Rodriguez High typically funds its shows through ticket sales, Day said, so though the cost of performing at the Suisun Harbor Theater is double the cost of performing at the school, he hopes to draw a larger crowd and sell more tickets.

'I know it's a gamble, and I said to my administrators that it's a gamble,' Day said. 'I am well aware this could blow up in my face, but I thought the pros outweighed the cons.'

>> Click here for showtimes and ticket information >>

To read the full story, go to www.dailyrepublic.com

Thursday, October 22, 2009

New Suisun City Bike Path Officially Opened

CENTRAL COUNTY BIKEWAY LINKS NEIGHBORHOODS TO WATERFRONT DISTRICT

SUISUN CITY — Suisun City residents can now walk or bike from one end of the City to the other without ever having to cross busy Highway 12 at a stoplight thanks to completion of the last segment of the Central County Bikeway.

The ½-mile segment of bikeway from Marina Boulevard to the Suisun City Train Station, featuring an impressive 140-foot bridge, literally closes the last gap in the Bikeway. It was officially opened to the public Thursday during an afternoon ribbon cutting ceremony.

The ceremony included comments from Suisun City Mayor Pete Sanchez, Suisun City Councilmember Mike Segala and Solano Transportation Authority Executive Director Daryl Halls.

The Gap Closure Project is the last piece in a continuous 3-mile pathway through the heart of Suisun City dedicated for pedestrian and bicycle use along the north side of Highway 12. It is an essential safety enhancement that allows area residents to access the Waterfront District, Amtrak service, Solano County offices, and dining and shopping opportunities without using their cars.
>> READ MORE >>

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

City Council Sells Community/Aquatic Center

THE SALVATION ARMY WILL REFURBISH CENTER & REOPEN IT TO THE COMMUNITY

SUISUN CITY — The Suisun City Council unanimously approved on Tuesday the sale of the shuttered Community/Aquatic Center next to Hall Park to The Salvation Army.

The vote concluded a 16-month search for a new operator for the community facility following the sudden closure of the facility by the YMCA.

The Salvation Army will develop a timeline for the complete renovation of the facility before reopening it with a full range of community and recreational services for everyone from seniors to youth, including fitness and aquatics programs.
>> READ MORE >>

Adopt a Pumpkin at the Suisun Wildlife Center

SUISUN CITY - Come to the Suisun Wildlife Center to adopt a 'wild' pumpkin for a small donation, and help support the Center's work of rescuing and releasing back to the wild injured and orphaned wildlife.

The Pumpkin Patch is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Wildlife Center, 1171 Kellogg Street, Suisun City.

When you pick out your pumpkin make sure to visit the Center's non-releasable wildlife family, including a coyote, raccoon and golden eagle. Also stop by the education center to learn about Solano County wildlife and the Suisun Marsh.

For more information, call 707-429-4295 or go online to www.suisunwildlife.org

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Sale of Shuttered Community/Aquatic Center Goes to City Council

THE SALVATION ARMY TO PURCHASE, REOPEN CENTER TO THE COMMUNITY

SUISUN CITY — The Suisun City Council will consider on Tuesday selling the shuttered Community/Aquatic Center next to Hall Park to The Salvation Army, which is committed to upgrading and reopening the facility for a broad range of community services.

Once the agreement is approved by both parties, The Salvation Army will lay out its timeline for renovations and a Grand Re-Opening. The Salvation Army Board of Directors (Western Territory) approved the agreement on Monday, October 12, 2009.

“It is absolutely tremendous to return this essential asset to the Suisun City community, particularly during a time when community services are needed more than ever,” said City Manager Suzanne Bragdon. “The Salvation Army brings the experience, focus, dedication and resources to make this an extremely successful operation.”

The City Council will consider selling the entire facility, including the gymnasium, offices, community rooms, workout space, locker rooms and swimming pool, to The Salvation Army for $3 million. Because improvements to the facility would be funded through donations, The Salvation Army requested to purchase the facility rather than operate the City-owned facility.

Approval of this project by The Salvation Army is a testament to the opportunity this Community/Aquatic Center presents.

“In spite of current economic challenges, The Salvation Army believes that the residents of Suisun City and its surrounding communities are sufficiently committed to the health, fitness and future of their families,” said Major Douglas F. Riley, Divisional Commander of The Salvation Army’s Del Oro Division. “We are looking forward to working together and making this a positive outcome for all.”

>>READ MORE>>

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Sandbags & Pumps Deployed for Street Flooding

SUISUN CITY — Persistent heavy rainfall throughout the day filled the drainage ditches and systems that drain Suisun City streets. As the rain abates and the tides fall, the drains will catch up and localized flooding will subside.

Ditches along Humphrey Drive, Railroad Avenue and the northern stretch of Main Street were running at or over capacity by late Tuesday afternoon. As a result, street drains that feed into those ditches could not operate properly and streets across the City filled with water.

The Suisun City Public Works Department checked and cleared drains throughout the day. As the drainage systems reached capacity, pumps and sandbags were deployed to re-channel water gathering on local streets.

Public Works crews will remain on Flood Watch around the clock and respond to developing situations until weather conditions improve.

Two self-serve sandbag stations were deployed for residents to use 24 hours a day at

Suisun City urges residents to use extreme caution during this rain event. Drive carefully and stay away from drainage ditches.

For more information and tips to safeguard your property, visit the Suisun City Storm Watch page.

Friday, October 9, 2009

Sunset Avenue Rehabilitation Project Begins Tuesday

Federal stimulus funding improving major Suisun City thoroughfare

SUISUN CITY — A $700,000 project to rehabilitate Sunset Avenue from Highway 12 to Railroad Avenue will begin Tuesday morning.

The work, conducted by Ghilotti Construction Company under contract with the City, will be coordinated to ensure at least one lane in each direction is open for traffic at all times, and to minimize impacts on local businesses and residents.

During the day, from about 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., crews will conduct work that is anticipated to have minimal impacts on traffic, including
  • removing and replace accessibility ramps at corners and related sidewalk improvements,
  • grinding street surfaces in preparation of repaving,
  • removing concrete sidewalks at Merganser Drive and Sunset Avenue and
  • repairing road base failures.
During nighttime hours, from about 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., crews will conduct the majority of the repaving work that is anticipated to cause temporary closures of shopping center driveways and other accesses. Indirect access to the Sunset Shopping Center and the Heritage Park Shopping Center will be maintained at all times.

Weather conditions may require some paving work to be performed during daytime hours. Motorists are encouraged to monitor signage in the construction zone, and follow the instructions of construction workers. Alternate routes should be used to avoid the construction zone, if possible.

The Sunset Avenue Rehabilitation Project is expected to take approximately nine weeks to complete, depending on weather conditions.

This project will result in new road surface for the entire length of Sunset Avenue through Suisun City. The Public Works Department completed the reconstruction of the Sunset Avenue and Railroad Avenue intersection earlier this year, which widened the roadway, installed sidewalks and bike lanes, and significantly upgraded vehicle and pedestrian safety at the Union Pacific Railroad crossing.

The Sunset Avenue Rehabilitation Project is funded by a federal stimulus grant provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which was designed to preserve jobs, spur economic activity and invest in long-term economic growth.

Monday, October 5, 2009

Horse lovers Fandango will steal your heart

Horse lovers Fandango will steal your heart
By Barbara Steinberg

At Rush Ranch Open Space, Access Adventure is busy breeding the most beautiful horses I have ever seen. I am not a horse expert...but you don't have to be an expert to know that this 6-month-old colt, Fandango, is really something special. Michael Muir (great-grandson of John) is the magic behind this darling. But the real stars were his parents - a Royal Night Friesian and Spotted Leopard Appaloosa. Until a year ago, I had never heard of either. But now I am a frequent visitor to Rush Ranch and met Fandango when he was just days old.

Newly weaned, he's renewed his interest in two-footed friends. But even though he's a growing boy...he's still very much like a baby. And during our visit, couldn't help but take a little nap. Check out the slide show.

Rush Ranch is an easy drive from Sacramento, With or without Fandango, it's a very special place and great hikes along Suisun Marsh. Come out next weekend for "Celebrate Adventure" and learn more about Access Adventure, their programs, and, of course, the horses.

Barbara has posted a nice slideshow of Fandango photos,too.

Monday, August 24, 2009

'Bye Bye Birdie' Auditions at Suisun City's Harbor Theatre

AUDITIONS TO BE HELD SEPT. 13 &14 BY APPOINTMENT ONLY WITH CALLBACKS ON SEPT. 17

Solano College Theatre announces auditions for Bye Bye Birdie. This beloved musical features music by Charles Strouse, lyrics by Lee Adams and a book by Michael Stewart. The production is directed by Holli Hornlien with musical direction by Vivian McLaughlin and choreography by Staci Arriaga.

Auditions will be held September 13th and 14th at the Harbor Theatre, 720 Main Street in Suisun City's Waterfront District. Callbacks will be September 17th. All roles are available including many ensemble roles. Non-equity actors only, please. Actors should prepare 32 bars of a traditional musical theater song and provide sheet music for the accompanist. Please call the Solano College Theatre production office at (707) 864-7199 for information and to schedule an audition appointment.

Rehearsals for Bye Bye Birdie begin November 9, 2009. After a winter holiday break, performances begin January 14, 2010 and run through January 30th at the Solano College Campus Theatre in Fairfield.

Director Holli Hornlien is a professional teaching artist, director and actress. For Solano College and Solano Youth Theatre, she directed the award winning productions of A Year with Frog and Toad, High School Musical, and Footloose. Other professional directing stints include Stones in His Pockets, The Final Twist and A Complete History of America (Abridged) for interPLAYERS in Washington, The Importance of Being Earnest, The Jungle Book, and The Wonderful Wizard of Oz for Pistarkle theatre in the Virgin Islands, and The Taming of the Shrew for Chicago’s Shakespeare’s Herd. Her regional theatre acting credits include Chicago Shakespeare Company, Goodman Theatre, Victory Gardens, Lyric Opera of Chicago, New Jersey Shakespeare Festival, and Cherry Lane Theatre in NYC. Film and television roles include the title role in The Pilot's Wife for the Oprah Winfrey Show on CBS; Primal Fear and leading lady appearances in several independent feature films.

Musical Director Vivian McLaughlin is best known for her role in Disney Channel’s television series, Out of the Box. Vivian was chosen from hundreds to sing at the annual Broadway on Broadway concert in New York’s Times Square and her Broadway debut at Madison Square Garden followed soon after. Since then she has recorded several audio books for Scholastic, Random House, and Bantam Doubleday, has appeared in industrials, commercials and is a member of AFTRA, SAG and AEA.

Staci Arriaga is an award-winning choreographer, actress and director in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has been honored with the prestigious Dean Goodman Award for her choreography of Jekyll and Hyde and The King and I at Solano College Theatre. She has also received Arty Awards for her choreography of Jekyll and Hyde, The Sound of Music, Guys And Dolls and Broadway Bound. Recently, the Theatre Bay Area Critics lauded Ms. Arriaga’s choreography with a nomination for Into The Woods at Crossroads Theatre. As an actress, Ms. Arriaga has also received Sacramento’s Elly Award for Anita in West Side Story and Princess Winnifred for Once Upon A Mattress.

In Bye Bye Birdie, Conrad Birdie is the latest and greatest rock and roll phenomenon in the country. He won’t be America’s most eligible bachelor for long however. He’s about to be inducted into the army. Before he ships out, his press agent has set up one last Birdie-Mania moment. One lucky teen-age girl will receive “One Last Kiss” from him, live and in person in The Ed Sullivan Show. Bye Bye Birdie received the 1961 Tony Award for Best Musical and features such songs as "Put on a Happy Face," "Kids," "The Telephone Hour" and "A Lot of Livin' to Do.”

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Suisun City Planning Commission Approves Salvation Army Permit

PERMIT TO HELP FINALIZE SALE OF PROPERTY, REOPENING OF COMMUNITY CENTER

SUISUN CITY — The Suisun City Planning Commission unanimously approved on Wednesday a conditional use permit and general plan finding necessary to re-open the shuttered former YMCA community center for family and youth activities.

After purchasing and renovating the property, The Salvation Army plans to operate
  • Family fitness and recreation center activities seven days a week, including fitness machines, aerobics classes, gymnasium sports, swim lessons and pool operations.
  • After-school youth tutoring and supervised recreation activities
  • Social assistance for local families, such as emergency pre-packaged food, applications for utility asistance programs, information and referrals to other agencies, and personal counseling.
  • Summer and Christmas seasonal activities
  • Disaster response training and services as needed following a disaster
  • Various community meetings and events, such as weddings, anniversaries, etc.
The Planning Commission action helps The Salvation Army finalize negotiations to purchase the facility formerly operated by the North Bay YMCA. The Suisun City Council may be asked to consider a sales proposal later this month. >>READ MORE>>

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Suisun City Issues Materials Testing & Inspection RFP

SUISUN CITY - The Suisun City Public Works Department has issued a Request for Proposals from consulting firms to provide professional materials testing and inspection services for a federal roadway rehabilitation project.

While the City is seeking proposals for the Sunset Avenue Pavement Rehabilitation Project (Federal Contract No. ESPL-5032 (022)), the City may expand the scope of services to other federal and non-federal roadway projects in the City.

Bids are due not later than 2 p.m. Thursday Aug. 20, 2009.

The Sunset Avenue Pavement Rehabilitation Project is located between State Route 12 and Railroad Avenue. In general, the project includes roadway dig-outs, grinding of existing pavement, pavement reinforcing fabric, 2-inch hot mix asphalt (HMA) overlay, raising existing surface utility features to grade, replacing traffic signal loop detectors, pavement markings, pedestrian ramps, sidewalk, curb & gutter, and other various items of work. The project is estimated to place 4,000 tons of HMA overlay.

Click here for more information on the scope of the project, including all bidding information and the project plans and specifications, or visit www.suisun.com.

Friday, July 31, 2009

Planning Commission to Consider Salvation Army Application

PERMIT TO HELP FINALIZE SALE OF PROPERTY, REOPENING OF COMMUNITY CENTER

SUISUN CITY — The Suisun City Planning Commission will consider on Wednesday a conditional use permit and general plan finding necessary to re-open the center for family and youth activities.

After purchasing and renovating the property, The Salvation Army plans to operate
  • Family fitness and recreation center activities seven days a week, including fitness machines, aerobics classes, gymnaseum sports, swim lessons and pool operations.
  • After-school youth tutoring and supervised recreation activities.
  • Social assistance for local families, such as emergency pre-packaged food, applications for utility asistance programs, information and referrals to other agencies, and personal counseling.
  • Summer and Christmas seasonal activities.
  • Disaster response training and services as needed following a disaster.
  • Various community meetings and events, such as weddings, anniversaries, etc.
The Planning Commission review and action will help The Salvation Army finalize negotiations to purchase the facility formerly operated by the North Bay YMCA. The Suisun City Council may be asked to consider a sales proposal later this month.

The Planning Commission meeting will start at 7 p.m. Wednesday August 5 in the City Hall Council Chamber. >>READ MORE>>

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Suisun City Seeks Experts to Administer Neighborhood Stablization Program

SUISUN CITY - A request for proposals was formally issued seeking proposals from professional firms who can administer the Neighborhood Stabilization Program focused on vacant and foreclosed homes.

Suisun City was allocated $955,000 in HUD Neighborhood Stabilization Program (NSP) funding by the State of California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). The City has seven months to use and obligate all NSP funding, with all funds to be expended by Sept. 30, 2011.

The goal of the program is to restore vitality to distressed neighborhoods by facilitating the acquisition, rehabilitation and resale of vacant and foreclosed single-family homes, as well as provide individual funding mechanisms for foreclosure rehabilitation to income eligible households, which might otherwise become sources of abandonment and blight within the community.

Moreover, the primary intent of the program is to rehab and fund as many homes as quickly and efficiently as possible. Projects must benefit moderate-income households (households at or below 120% of the Solano County Median Household Income). NSP funding is authorized under Title III of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, and under the American Housing Rescue and Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008.

The City of Suisun City requests proposals from individuals, consultants and/or organizations with experience managing single-family rehabilitation and administering rehabilitation loans, in addition to experience with the acquisition and resale of residential property. Respondents to this RFP are encouraged to collaborate with non-profit organizations, local realtors, lenders and construction contractors to gain the organizational capacity needed to operate an NSP program and to secure resources to leverage NSP funding. Respondents must demonstrate the ability to provide services in a culturally-sensitive manner and have experience working with persons of low-income and non-English speaking households.

Additional NSP funds targeted to very low-income households (households at or below 50% of the Solano County Median Household Income) will become available from HCD in the near future. This RFP does not address very low-income NSP funding.

Responses are due no later than 2 p.m. August 20, 2009. For more information about this request, follow this link Projects Open for Bid - Suisun City, California (Solano County)

Monday, July 27, 2009

General Manager for Hampton Inn & Suites Suisun City Named by Basin Street Hospitality


Suisun City, Calif.
– Basin Street Hospitality, a division of Basin Street Properties (www.basin-street.com), a prominent Northern California and Northern Nevada real estate investor of commercial and mixed-use properties, named Hartmut Ott as general manager of the new Hampton Inn & Suites Suisun City Waterfront in Suisun City, Calif. The 102-room hotel, located at Two Harbor Center Drive adjacent to the city’s scenic waterfront, is part of the Hilton family of hotels and is scheduled to open in September 2009.

“We are excited to have Hartmut join the Basin Street Hospitality team and are confident that his extensive background in hotel management will contribute to the success of this hotel,” said Tom Birdsall, managing partner of Basin Street Hospitality. “His outstanding track record combined with his leadership skills will serve us well as we strive to provide the highest quality of service and standard of care to our guests. Hartmut has moved to Suisun City and is thrilled about the hotel’s great location along the expanding business corridor between the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento, and just minutes away from the Napa Valley. ”

Ott has been involved in the hospitality industry for more than 15 years and his experience spans hotel properties both domestically and internationally. Most recently, Ott served as the director of rooms at Cavallo Point in Sausalito where he was instrumental in launching the hotel opening last year. He was responsible for daily operations ensuring guest satisfaction and the hotel’s financial success. Previously, he was the general manager for the Seven Gables Inn, and held management positions at three Ritz-Carlton, Hotels & Resorts. He has worked for a number of hotels throughout the United States and Germany, and is a graduate of the Hotel Management School in Frankfurt, Germany.

“I look forward to welcoming guests to this hotel that is located in an increasingly popular destination spot for both business and leisure travelers, and with its beautiful waterfront location and high value features it is the ideal lodging option during these challenging economic times,” added Ott.

Like all Hampton Inn & Suites properties, this location features warm surroundings, high-quality accommodations, in-room conveniences, the latest technology and a friendly service culture. Other amenities include an outdoor pool and spa and meeting rooms. Guests also receive a complimentary hot breakfast, complimentary high-speed Internet access, flat screen TVs and the Hampton 100% satisfaction guarantee.

This is Basin Street Hospitality’s second new build hotel. The Hampton Inn & Suites Windsor - Sonoma Wine Country with 116 rooms in Windsor, Calif., opened in November 2008. In addition to the Hampton Inn & Suites hotels, Basin Street Hospitality’s portfolio includes the Sheraton Sonoma County, located in Petaluma, Calif., one of the top performing hotels in the region with guest satisfaction scores among the top five percent of its category, and the 78-room Holiday Inn Express in Corning, Calif. In Reno, Basin Street is planning a new hotel directly across the street from the city’s brand new 10,000-seat Triple A baseball stadium.

Basin Street owns residential, office, retail and hospitality properties in Northern California and Nevada and tenants at all properties receive discounts on rooms at all Basin Street Hospitality hotels.

Basin Street Properties, headquartered in Petaluma, Calif., is one of Northern California’s and Northern Nevada’s prominent developers, investors and managers of commercial properties. Basin Street has become widely recognized for its office, retail and mixed use developments. Founded more than 30 years ago, the company offers a broad range of real estate services, including development, property management, construction management, financial and asset management, and property acquisition and disposition. For more information on Basin Street Properties, please call 707.795.4477 or visit www.basin-street.com.

For more about Suisun City, go to VisitSuisunCity.com

Solano Interstate Highway Study Released for Comments

The Solano Transportation Authority has released the draft of a comprehensive study on the necessary expansion and improvement to the I-80/I-680/I-780 corridors through Solano County.

Meetings to receive public input are scheduled for
  • Tuesday (July 28), 6-7:30 p.m., at Fairfield-Suisun Unified School District Office (2490 Hilborn Road)
  • Wednesday (July 29), 6-7:30 p.m. at Solano Community College, Vallejo Extension (545 Columbus Parkway)
Written comments will be accepted by the STA through Aug. 12.

Key Links:

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Solano commuters an educated bunch - The Reporter

Solano commuters an educated bunch - The Reporter

Story excerpt:
If you are a commuter, riding a bus, the Baylink Ferry, Amtrak or BART train and surrounded by people from Solano County, then you are in educated company.

More than 27 percent of area residents, or more than one in four, who commute to work outside Solano County have at least a bachelor's degree, according to figures from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Only San Francisco and Alameda counties have more commuters who earned a bachelor's or graduate degrees, said Michael Ammann, president of the Solano Economic Development Corporation.

"The data says that Solano County contributes to the educated workforce that is driving the economic engine of neighboring counties within the northeast Bay," he said in a press release.

Right in the middle of this amazing population sits Suisun City, home to Solano County's Capitol Corridor station.
  • Across the street sits One Harbor Center (a three-story Class One Office Building)
  • Within a short walk Harbor Square (a brand new 40,000 square foot mixed use center with restaurant/retail on the first floor and office uses on the second)
  • New Hampton Inn & Suites Hotel overlooking the water set to open in September.

You need to consider Suisun City for any office relocations:
  • Halfway between the Bay Area and Sacramento
  • Straddling the Capitol Corridor route
  • A dozen unique independent restaurants within an easy walk
  • Plenty of parking
  • Beautiful waterfront setting
  • Community and business leaders focused on building the local economy
  • Educated workforce nearby eager to cut their commute times
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News About Suisun City, California | SCT Presents Shakespeare in the Park Production of Much Ado About Nothing

News About Suisun City, California | SCT Presents Shakespeare in the Park Production of Much Ado About Nothing

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Tuesday, July 21, 2009

State Budget Gimmicks to Hammer City Services

Local service cuts are nearly 20% of State’s “solution”

SUISUN CITY — The proposed State budget compromise would raid three sources of funding essential to providing necessary public services in Suisun City, and includes at least one maneuver that a state court has ruled to be unconstitutional.

“This state budget seems to be a repeat of prior magical acts by our confused legislators, using accounting gimmicks detested by accountants like me,” Mayor Pete Sanchez said. “It’s just a repeat of the usual ‘kicking the can’ down the road to handle another day.”

The budget compromise reached by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Legislative leaders relies on tapping local funding sources, including:

  • Borrowing $2 billion in Prop. 1A funding, which the State plans to repay in 2013;
  • Diverting $1 billion in gas taxes used for local road maintenance; and
  • Taking $1.7 billion in redevelopment funding earmarked for affordable housing projects.

Of the $26.3 billion budget gap the state needed to close, the compromise reached by the Governor and Legislative leaders would take $4.7 billion from local governments.

“We have all faced the challenges of the downturned economy,” City Manager Suzanne Bragdon said. “Now local governments have to deal with the downturned economy and the State’s mess? Twenty percent of the state’s mess! Give me a break!”

For Suisun City, this translates to

  • $285,000 from the General Fund – Monies to pay for police, fire, senior services, recreation programs and park maintenance;
  • $470,000 in gas taxes — Monies to repair pot holes, maintain street lights, provide litter control, and other basic road maintenance; and
  • an uncertain amount from redevelopment funds that could exceed $4 million.

In adopting its balanced $12 million budget for FY 2009-10, the Suisun City Council put $285,000 into a special contingency fund to protect against state action. Rather than augmenting the Police Department, Recreation or Public Works, the Council established a defense against the State.

But there is no defense against the State taking gas taxes. If adopted, this measure will strip away more than two-thirds of the money Suisun City uses to fill pot holes, repair streetlights, perform litter control and other routine roadway maintenance. Nearly half of the remaining $150,000 pays the PG&E bill to keep streetlights burning.

On June 16, 2009, the Suisun City Council adopted a resolution opposing the state proposal to take gas taxes.

Officials are working to quantify the potential impact on the Redevelopment Agency Affordable Housing Fund, but it could be enormous. The state proposes to take $1.7 billion statewide over the next two fiscal years. Last fall, when the state proposed to take $350 million statewide, the Suisun City Redevelopment Agency stood to lose $1.1 million.

“Assuming similar formulas are used this time around, our RDA losses could be more than $4 million,” City Manager Suzanne Bragdon said.

Most recently, Suisun City has used affordable housing money to provide loans to build the Cottonwood Creek affordable housing complex and create a first-time homebuyer program to return foreclosed properties to private ownership.

In April, the Sacramento Superior Court blocked the state’s earlier $350 million RDA shift when it ruled that it was an unconstitutional use of redevelopment funds.

Monday, July 20, 2009

Crime Drops 20% in First Half of 2009

Significant improvement a result of new beat system and proactive policing

SUISUN CITY — Crime in Suisun City declined 20 percent in the first six months of 2009, with 30 percent declines in violent crimes and property crimes leading the way, according to a recent study by the Suisun City Police Department.

Violent crime, such as rape, robbery and aggravated assault, was reduced by 30 percent or more, while burglaries declined by 30 percent and thefts were down by 28 percent.

This significant reduction in Suisun City’s overall crime rate is the result of a Beat System that enhances street patrols and crime response, as well as the continued proactive work by police officers and civilian staff during the past three years, Police Chief Ed Dadisho said.

>> Read more about the crime rate and the new Beat System >>

Friday, July 17, 2009

SUNSET AVENUE WEEKEND CLOSURES

New Railroad Crossing Arms Key Step to Enhance Public Safety

SUISUN CITY – Union Pacific Railroad will replace the automatic crossing guards on Sunset Avenue between Travis Boulevard and Railroad Avenue this weekend necessitating periodic roadway closures between 6 a.m. and 2 p.m. both Saturday (July 18) and Sunday (July 19).

The closures were scheduled during for the weekend due to the lighter traffic flows. During the closures, motorists should watch for construction signs and detours indicating alternate routes. However, motorists are encouraged to avoid the area if possible to minimize any inconvenience.

The new guards will be installed in a two-step process. Beginning at 6 a.m. Saturday, crews will install the guard arm across the southbound lanes between Travis Boulevard and Railroad Avenue. This work will be completed by 2 p.m. On Sunday, crews will work on the arms across the northbound lanes following the same schedule.

Installation of the new warning gate assemblies is a key part of the roadway expansion and safety enhancements installed in recent months by the City of Suisun City and the Union Pacific Railroad. This installation is one of the final steps to complete this project.

CITY SEEKS PLANNING COMMISSION AND LIRBARY BOARD NOMINEES

SUISUN CITY – The City is now accepting applications from residents interested in serving the community by sitting on the Planning Commission or the Solano County Library Advisory Board.

All applications are due to the City Clerk by 6 p.m. Thursday July 30.

The Planning Commission has a variety of responsibilities related to zoning and planning matters. The Commission generally meets twice a month, or as business requires. There is one vacancy in a term expiring in January 2013.

The Solano County Library Advisory Council serves in an advisory capacity on matters of library services provided by the County Library. The Council generally meets once every two months in Fairfield. Terms are four years.

Click here for the full recruitment notice and application.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Ferris Wheel to Tower Over July 4th Festivities

SUISUN CITY - For the first time ever,a giant Ferris Wheel will be part of the Independence Day Spectacular festivities in the Waterfront District.

Positioned next to Sheldon Plaza, the 45-foot-tall classic carnival ride will provide riders with unprecedented views of the entire Waterfront and beyond into the Suisun Marsh.

"This is going to be a fantastic experience unlike anything we've had before," said event coordinator Anita Skinner.

The Ferris Wheel is the latest edition to a traditional all-day event that features continuous live music, dance entertainment, dozens of arts and crafts vendors, delicious food, and the region's best fireworks display. >> READ MORE >>


Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Community Garden Meeting Set

SUISUN CITY — Come help us plan a Community Garden for Suisun City. If you’ve always wanted to grow your own vegetables but a lack of space stopped you, then this could be the perfect opportunity.

The Suisun City Recreation and Community Services Department will host an interest meeting to determine how to proceed in planning and developing a community garden. The meeting is set for 6 p.m. Wednesday May 13 in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 701 Civic Center Blvd. >>READ MORE>>

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Kids & Kites Fest to go on

Rain, Rain, Go Away! The weather forecast shows a 60% chance of no rain showers on our first festival of the year!

We've planned an awesome day on the Suisun City Waterfront with the Kids and Kites Fest. >>Click here for more info>>

But if it's too chilly for your tastes try on of the four performances of 'Emperor's New Clothes' in the Harbor Theatre and Free Comic Book Day at Waterfront Comics!  The Suisun Wildlife Center visitor center also will be open all day for you to check out their displays of native animals and plants. >>Click here for more info>>

Stop by the Waterfront District between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. today!

Friday, April 24, 2009

Solano College Theatre Touring Company Auditions

AUDITIONS MAY 2, 2009, BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

The Solano College Theatre Touring Company members are considered important “Ambassadors to the Community.”

College and High School students that excel as triple-threat performers work with a professional musical director and choreographer to create a thirty-minute touring show. They share their exceptional talents by appearing at bookings across the region such as Disneyland, San Francisco Theatre Festival, Solano and Napa County Fairs and Vacaville Fiesta Days to name a few.

We are thrilled to announce that Vivian McLaughlin will return as the Artistic Director, and celebrated choreographer Staci Arriaga shall also return to share her talents and energy.

AUDITION DETAILS

  • Saturday May 2nd, 2009. 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
  • Harbor Theatre – 720 Main Street, Suisun City
  • Please prepare 16 bars of a musical theatre song that shows off your vocal range & personality. Bring clearly marked sheet music in your key. Accompanist will be provided. Wear clothes you can move in and jazz shoes/dance sneakers for the dance portion of the audition.
  • Rehearsals begin May 30th, 2009. Classes meet Saturdays from 9:30a.m. – 1:20 p.m.
  • Call Stage Manager, Sue Cavazos to schedule your audition appointment. (707) 592-1549


Thursday, April 23, 2009

Suisun City Preschool Enrollment to Open

Open enrollment for the Suisun City Preschool summer program begins at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday May 6 at the Nelson Community Center, 611 Village Drive in Suisun City.

Classes are available for children ages 2 years, 6 months through 5 years.

Registration is handled on a first-come, first-served basis, and will remain open until all class spaces are filled.

Please bring your child’s birth certificate as well as shot records.

For more information please call (707) 421-7200.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Solano County police departments seek $1 million in federal stimulus

SUISUN CITY POLICE TO ADMINISTER GRANT

The County of Solano and the Cities of Dixon, Vacaville, Fairfield, Suisun City, Vallejo and Benicia have been allotted $1,014,930 by the Federal Bureau of Justice Assistance under the 2009 Recovery Act: Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Formula Program.

The Suisun City Police Department will act as fiscal agent and administer the grant for each agency, which have developed individual plans to spend the money according to specific local needs. >>Click here for agency-specific information>>

The primary goals for this funding, consistent with the Recovery Act, are to create and retain jobs to support law enforcement programs, stabilize local budgets, and provide supplies and equipment to increase and enhance the capabilities of local law enforcement.

The public is encouraged to review the application, and provide comments and input on the intended uses of the funds. Contact Sergeant Andrew White directly by phone at (707) 421-7386, or by e-mail at awhite@suisun.com.

The application must be filed with the Bureau of Justice Assistance no later than May 18, 2009. >>READ MORE>>

Monday, April 20, 2009

Historic Steam Engine Comes to Suisun City

SUISUN CITY - Union Pacific Railroad's historic steam Engine No. 844 came through Suisun City about 10:30 a.m. today thrilling about 200 people gathered at the city Train Station.

Train enthusiasts and other curious onlookers started gathering at the Train Station on Main Street as early as 8:30 a.m. waiting for the historic train, which was traveling from Roseville to Oakland as part of its Western Heritage Tour. >>READ MORE & SEE PICTURES>>

Friday, April 17, 2009

Actor's Showcase Opens Final Projects to the Public

SOLANO COLLEGE THEATRE'S ATP SHOWCASES GRADUATING CLASS PROJECTS

Solano College Theatre proudly presents Every Story Is A Love Story, a showcase of scenes, songs and dancing presented by the Actor Training Program (ATP) graduating class of 2009. Playing May 8th and 9th, 2009 at the Harbor Theatre in Suisun City's Waterfront District, the showcase is directed by Nancy Carlin, who has been an ATP adjunct faculty member for 10 years.

This is the first time SCT has opened up the ATP final performances to the public. “We wanted to make these performances public because we have seen that they are consistently great,” said Managing Director Chris Guptill.

“The final projects are, literally, a showcase of the talent and creativity of our students in the best possible way. The performances are always entertaining and often very emotionally charged, allowing our graduates to show the full range of performance skills they have mastered at Solano. The only thing missing has been an audience, which is, after all, what makes the difference between an exercise and a performance.”

Every Story Is A Love Story features scenes from contemporary playwrights including Sarah Ruhl, Bob Glaudini and Stephanie Zadrevic. Songs and dance numbers about off-beat, quirky love will round out the performances.

The students showcased in the performances include: Heather Bankston from Suisun City, Randal Chun from Fairfield, Magdalena Crane from Napa, Bianca Doria from Sacramento, David Ewing from Napa, Sergio Gonzales from Vallejo, Roy Landaverde from Antioch, Ruben Perez from Napa, Melissa Petty from Fairfield, John Rivard from Vacaville, Allison Smith from Vacaville, Lindsay Stoltz from Napa, Sofia Tovar from Vacaville and Anthony Williams from Fairfield.

The ATP program was created in 1988 by SCT Artistic Director George Maguire and former Managing Director David Leonard. ATP is for the career-bound acting student. It is modeled after a variety of other conservatory-based (all-inclusive, taught by professionals) training programs. It includes modules on acting; singing; modern dance; tap dance; ballet; voice and speech for the actor; Shakespeare; text analysis; scene study; acting styles; movement for the actor; mask work; and a variety of other topics. Many ATP graduates go on to professional conservatories (such as the American Conservatory Theatre) or top-tier universities (UCLA, NYU, Yale). The ATP is designed to get graduates into programs that create career actors.

Every Story Is A Love Story performs at the Harbor Theatre, 720 Main Street in Suisun City, Friday, May 8th and Saturday, May 9th, 2009, at 8 p.m. Tickets are only $5 and are a tax-deductible donation to the Solano College Theatre Association Scholarship Fund.

For more information or to purchase tickets, please call the Solano College Theatre Box Office at (707) 864-7100 Tuesday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m.

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Historic Steam Engine Coming Through Monday

Union Pacific's historic No. 844 steam locomotive will travel through Suisun City on Monday (April 20) as part of its 32-day, four-state Western Heritage Tour.

The full steam engine won't stop in Suisun City but will pass through sometime between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. en route from Roseville to Oakland. The engine will be on display in Roseville on Saturday (April 18) and in Oakland on Tuesday (April 21) as it follows the Capitol Corridor route.

You can follow the progress of the No. 844 on the Union Pacific's website by GPS or on Twitter.

For more on the Western Heritage Tour and the No. 844, follow this link to the Union Pacific's fact sheets.

Here's a link to a Contra Costa Times article about No. 844's Bay Area activities.

Monday, April 13, 2009

Homebuyer Assistance Income Limits Revised

FAMILY OF FOUR MAKING $95,300 MAY QUALIFY

SUISUN CITY - The Redevelopment Agency has updated it's income qualification standards for its First-Time Homebuyers Assistance Program.

The program is designed to help individuals and families entering the housing market purchase a previously foreclosed home in Suisun City. To date, $3.4 million in local affordable housing funds have been committed to this program. Nearly $1 million in additional federal stimulus funds are being pursued to augment local funding.

Income limits also were recently raised for the Neighborhood Reinvestment Program.

These annual adjustments allow more families to qualify, and increases the opportunity for the Redevelopment Agency to reinvest in Suisun City's neighborhoods.

>>READ MORE>>