Upcoming Events List

	Christmas Bazaar at the Adobe Saturday, DEC 6, 2014 11:00 AM PEÑA ADOBE HISTORICAL SOCIETY & RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL — Peña Adobe Park Tour the historic Peña Adobe, built in 1842, and the Mowers-Goheen Museum. The Peña Adobe, historical landmark #534, was home of the Peña family, who with the Vaca family, settled in Vacaville over one hundred seventy years ago. The Museum selection of artifacts includes Peña family heirlooms, local Patwin tribe relics and an ancient woolly mammoth bone! Meet local author Francie Vicondoa! Her book “Spanish Doors, Dishes and Dreams: A Cookbook by an Emigrant’s Child,” an assortment of old Spanish expressions, Spanish recipes from the past and present, with photographs, and stories of Spanish immigrants, will be available. The recipes are easy and don’t require a lot of ingredients. If you are looking for a gift for someone who loves to cook and enjoys the Spanish culture of the early 1900's, this is the book for you! Other books by local authors available will include: Fern Henry’s “My Checkered Life,” Elissa DeCaro’s “Images of America – Suisun City and Valley,” Brian Irwin’s “Vacaville Then & Now,” and Jerry Bowen’s “Images of America - Vacaville.” In addition to Solano County historical books, antique soap dishes, candle holders, baked goods and the newly released Vacaville Heritage Council’s 2015 calendar, will all be available for sale. There is no charge for admission into the historical park. Docents will be on hand to lead tours of the Adobe, the Museum and the grounds. Leader: Little Bear Location: Vacaville DIRECTIONS: The park is located at Peña Adobe Road just off of Interstate 80.

	Birds of Prey Identification & Natural History Hike Sunday, DEC 7, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park Join Larry Broderick and the Solano Land Trust Raptor Team for a birds of prey hike. The hike will offer identification tips and views of resident and migrating birds of prey. Previous sightings include golden eagles, bald eagles, rough-legged hawks, Cooper's hawks, sharp-shinned hawks, ferruginous hawks, peregrine falcons, prairie falcons and other, more common birds of prey. This is the Land Trust’s eighth season offering raptor tours and workshops on its properties. Cost is $10 per person (payable when registering) plus $5 per vehicle (payable at the park). Advance registration is required. You can register online. All ages are welcome, but participants should be prepared for a moderate pace covering about 4 miles, possibly off-trail in places, up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds, thorny plants and thistle, and passing free range cattle along the way. Meet at the Lynch Canyon parking lot before 10 a.m. Bring $5 cash for parking; a backpack with plenty of water and snacks; boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rough, steep and slippery terrain; long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty; and protection from sun, wind and fog. Binoculars, a camera, bug repellent and hiking sticks are also recommended. Heavy rain cancels the hike. Call Mary Beth at (707) 685-5908 if the weather is uncertain. Leader: Larry Broderick Entrance Fee: $10 Parking Fee: $5 Registration is required. Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80 East, take the Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs. From I-80 West, take the Red Top Road exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs.

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, DEC 12, 2014 8:00 AM NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Napa and Solano Counties The destination for each Friday bird walk is not decided until a few days before the trip. An email is sent out each week describing the destination for the upcoming trip. If you would like to be added to the email list for Friday Bird Walks, you can submit your information on our sign-up page. Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.40/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner DIRECTIONS: Meet at Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West, Napa, to carpool.

	Coyote Club Saturday, DEC 13, 2014 9:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch For ages 4-14 -- The McIntyre Ranch is home to several different habitats, farm animals and an educational garden. Explore nature through activities, games and crafts. Getting up close to nature helps us to understand the balance we have with the environment. Studies have found that children who spend time exploring nature are more focused and interested in school. Families are encouraged to come to every meeting. Bring a snack, water and your curiosity! For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Cost: $5/class resident, $6/class nonresident. Adults must register at no cost. Leader: Dee Davis Entrance Fee: $5 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Off St. John's Mine Road.

	Hike at Rockville Trails Preserve Saturday, DEC 13, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Preserve Solano Land Trust volunteer Jim Hanser will lead hikers through California oaks to views of the surrounding valleys and sounds of birds and squirrels in a preserve only open to the public when a Solano Land Trust volunteer is leading a tour. Hikers should expect a moderate pace with occasional stops, hiking four to six miles up and down rugged, steep and slippery hills through the oak woodlands and grasslands. For important details, meeting location, and to RSVP, visit the events calendar on solanolandtrust.org or event details. For additional questions, call Hanser at 707-372-6090. Leader: Jim Hanser Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Meet promptly at the big red "Ice House" building on Suisun Valley Ct, near the intersection of Rockville Rd and Suisun Valley Rd, Fairfield, CA. Be ready to immediately carpool or caravan from there to the trailhead.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Crew Saturday, DEC 13, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park Help us take care of Lynch Canyon's 1,000 plus acres. Projects include improving trails, fixing fences, weeding, and the like. WHAT TO BRING: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, heavy work gloves, eye protection (e.g., sunglasses), boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rough, steep, and slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. Meet Ken promptly in the parking lot. RSVP to Ken Poerner at 707-580-6277 or email so he can bring enough tools. Meet up at the parking lot. Leader: Ken Poerner Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80 East, take the Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs. From I-80 West, take the Red Top Road exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, DEC 13, 2014 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Historic Southshore Walk Saturday, DEC 13, 2014 10:00 AM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Join us for a walk around the oldest area of Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve. This area is not currently open to the public except for these regularly scheduled walks allowed by the US Navy. The Navy does not allow dogs or bikes on this outing. Bring cameras, binoculars, snacks and dress for all kinds of weather, and wear comfortable walking shoes. Flat paved and gravel roads. Location: 167 O’Hara Ct Mare Island Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Preserve Visitor Center, Building A-167, at the end of Railroad Ave

	Lake Solano Survivor Saturday, DEC 13, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO COUNTY PARKS — Lake Solano County Park Meet at the Lake Solano Nature Center to begin your walk along the Shoreline Trail with your guide, Megan Harns. We will explore how the humans that once lived on Putah Creek and the animals that live there today survive when resources are scarce. Which plants are edible, and which could make you very sick without careful preparation? Learn these secrets and more as you explore the park. Enjoy the beauty of this area as we stroll along Putah Creek and take the time to appreciate the complexity of natural resources that abound here. This event is a great opportunity to have fun, learn, and get fresh air and exercise. The activities are appropriate for all ages, and we welcome families and groups. Please prepare for the weather and variable conditions by bringing water, and wearing sturdy shoes. Please register so we will have an idea of the number of participants. The day's activities are free, and parking is only $5 per vehicle, payable at the east entrance of the Park, on the other side of Pleasants Valley Road. For questions, call Karin Petrites at Putah Creek Council, 530-795-3006. Leader: Megan Harns Parking Fee: $5 Location: 8685 Pleasants Valley Road DIRECTIONS: Lake Solano Park straddles Pleasants Valley Road, north of Vacaville and near the town of Winters. Pay the $5 parking fee and park on the east-side of Pleasants Valley Rd.

	68th Annual Benicia Christmas Bird Count Sunday, DEC 14, 2014 NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Benicia A Christmas Bird Count (CBC) is a 24-hour census of all the birds seen or heard within a prescribed 15 mile diameter circle. Our circle’s center is on Hwy 680 1 ¼ mile north of Pierce Road. The Benicia CBC is one of the oldest in California, started by Emerson Stoner in 1930. Click here to visit our Benicia CBC page with more information and resources. We need volunteers in all areas: on land, in boats, canoes, and in backyards watching feeders. Or you can help prepare food for the hungry volunteers when they come in from the field! At the end of the day, we have reserved a room at the Florence Douglas Senior Center to do our compilation, share birding stories of the day, and enjoy a sumptuous hot potluck dinner. The address is 333 Amador St Vallejo, CA. To sign up, visit the Christmas Bird Count page on the Napa-Solano Audubon website to download a registration form. Location: Benicia

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, DEC 19, 2014 8:00 AM NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Napa and Solano Counties The destination for each Friday bird walk is not decided until a few days before the trip. An email is sent out each week describing the destination for the upcoming trip. If you would like to be added to the email list for Friday Bird Walks, you can submit your information on our sign-up page. Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.40/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner DIRECTIONS: Meet at Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West, Napa, to carpool.

	Mare Island Aglow Holiday Lighted Trail Walk Friday, DEC 19, 2014 5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Every weekend evening Friday–Sunday, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Rain or shine! Walk the 1-mile paved trail with holiday lighting to the Naval Cemetery, Rowser Garden, and the Spirit Ship. Music, refreshments, gift items, and a campfire at the Visitors Center, at the south end of Railroad Ave. Free but donations appreciated. Location: 167 O’Hara Ct Mare Island Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Preserve Visitor Center, Building A-167, at the end of Railroad Ave

	Rockville Hills Regional Park Trail Crew Saturday, DEC 20, 2014 9:00 AM CITY OF FAIRFIELD — Rockville Hills Regional Park The Rockville Trail Crew volunteer work days are scheduled for the third Saturday of every month from 9-12noon, rain or shine! Trail Crew volunteers provide technical assistance with trail maintenance and construction activities on the trails. Trail Crew volunteer duties consist of clearing rocks, trees, brush and other debris from proposed trail routes; build/repair walk ways, bridges or other structures; grade/fill existing trail paths to ensure user safety; and attend all required meetings and training sessions. Volunteers should bring water, gloves and a tool if available. Volunteers should wear layered clothing and sturdy shoes. A snack and beverage provided for volunteers. Meet at the parking area. If you are not a regular volunteer, please RSVP to Ranger Teri, (707) 249-3613, or by email. Location: 2149 Rockville Rd Fairfield

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, DEC 20, 2014 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Solstice Plug Planting Saturday, DEC 20, 2014 9:30 AM PUTAH CREEK COUNCIL — Lake Solano County Park Join Putah Creek Council in celebrating Winter Solstice through a day of planting native grass plugs! We'll be planting native grasses along the Lake Solano shoreline to help improve wildlife habitat and soil health. We provide all the tools and supplies, including gloves. We'll be meeting at 9:30 am and work until noon. Please dress appropriately for the weather in clothes that can get dirty and closed-toe shoes. Don't forget your water bottle! If you are under 18, you MUST bring this completed liability form with a parent's signature. This event will happen rain or shine! PCC will bring ponchos and mud boots if necessary. Register online. We look forward to working with you! Location: 8685 Pleasants Valley Road DIRECTIONS: Lake Solano Park straddles Pleasants Valley Road, north of Vacaville and near the town of Winters. Pay the $5 parking fee and park on the east-side of Pleasants Valley Rd.

	'Fall Into Winter' Birdwatching Tour Saturday, DEC 20, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park Take a break from the hectic holiday season and “fall into winter” at Lynch Canyon Open Space Park with Solano Land Trust volunteers. The hiking tour will feature birds of prey, resident, and over-wintering birds. Previous sightings include golden eagles, bald eagles, rough-legged hawks, Cooper's hawks, sharp-shinned hawks, ferruginous hawks, peregrine falcons, prairie falcons and other more common birds of prey and migratory songbirds. The hike is free. Parking is $5 per vehicle. An RSVP is requested to Mary Beth. All ages are welcome, but participants should be prepared for a slow to moderate pace covering about 4 miles, possibly off-trail in places, up and down rugged, steep, muddy, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds, thorny plants and thistle, and passing free range cattle along the way. Meet at the Lynch Canyon parking lot before 10 a.m. Bring a backpack with plenty of water and snacks; boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes that grip well; long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty; and protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. Binoculars, a camera, bug repellent and hiking sticks are also recommended. Heavy rain cancels the hike. Call Mary Beth at (707) 685-5908 if the weather is uncertain. Parking Fee: $5 Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80 East, take the Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs. From I-80 West, take the Red Top Road exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs.

	Horse Day at McIntyre Ranch Saturday, DEC 20, 2014 10:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch For ages 8-17 -- Learn about the friendly horses and goats, and participate in their daily care. Wear sturdy work clothes and tough shoes because this is a "hand-on" experience. You will put a halter on a horse, learn to lead horses safely, brush them, clean their feet and clean their stalls. Everyone will have a chance to sit on a horse (helmet are required and provided, keep hairstyle simple for easy fit). Kids will receive a souvenit t-shirt! Eat a good breakfast, bring water bottle and wear layers. For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Leader: Jane Mitchell Entrance Fee: $25 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Off St. John's Mine Road

	Rush Ranch 'Get the Rush' Saturday, DEC 20, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST AND RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL — Rush Ranch Get the Rush is a series of fun and free activities for the whole family, offered on the third Saturday of every month at Rush Ranch. All ages and mobility levels are welcome! This event is 100% volunteer-run and activities vary month-to-month. The blacksmith shop remains open for visitors! The wagons are in storage for the winter. Other activities are dependent on volunteer availability and the weather. BRING: Water, snacks or picnic lunch, bug repellent. Be prepared for variable weather by bringing layered clothes, sturdy closed-toe shoes, and protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. Optional: binoculars, camera. For current details, check the Solano Land Trust calendar. Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Story Time with Mrs. Claus at the WRM Saturday, DEC 20, 2014 10:30 AM BAY AREA ELECTRIC RAILROAD ASSOCIATION — Western Railway Museum Enjoy cookies, hot drinks, family activities, and stories including Engineer Ari & the Hanukkah Mishap and the Polar Express. Photos are very much encouraged. Rain or shine! 10:30am - 3:30pm Leader: Mrs. Claus Location: 5848 State Highway 12 Suisun City DIRECTIONS: Highway 12 between Fairfield and Rio Vista

	Mare Island Aglow Holiday Lighted Trail Walk Saturday, DEC 20, 2014 5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Every weekend evening Friday–Sunday, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Rain or shine! Walk the 1-mile paved trail with holiday lighting to the Naval Cemetery, Rowser Garden, and the Spirit Ship. Music, refreshments, gift items, and a campfire at the Visitors Center, at the south end of Railroad Ave. Free but donations appreciated. Location: 167 O’Hara Ct Mare Island Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Preserve Visitor Center, Building A-167, at the end of Railroad Ave

	Mare Island Aglow Holiday Lighted Trail Walk Sunday, DEC 21, 2014 5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Every weekend evening Friday–Sunday, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Rain or shine! Walk the 1-mile paved trail with holiday lighting to the Naval Cemetery, Rowser Garden, and the Spirit Ship. Music, refreshments, gift items, and a campfire at the Visitors Center, at the south end of Railroad Ave. Free but donations appreciated. Location: 167 O’Hara Ct Mare Island Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Preserve Visitor Center, Building A-167, at the end of Railroad Ave

	Planting at Pleasants Creek Monday, DEC 22, 2014 9:30 AM PUTAH CREEK COUNCIL & SOLANO RESOURCE CONSERVATION DISTRICT — Pleasants Creek Join Putah Creek Council and our partners at Solano Resources Conservation District in planting native trees, shrubs, and grasses along an eroding meander bend on Pleasants Creek. The native plants will help prevent further erosion that threatens a nearby road, as well as provide valuable habitat for local wildlife. A short hike is required to get to the planting site, which is just outside of Winters. This is a great opportunity to see one of lower Putah Creek's main tributaries. We provide all the tools and supplies, including gloves. We'll be meeting at 9:30 am and work until noon. Please dress appropriately for the weather in clothes that can get dirty and closed-toe shoes. Don't forget your water bottle! If you are under 18, you MUST bring a completed liability form with a parent's signature. This event will happen rain or shine! PCC will bring ponchos and mud boots if necessary. Registration for this event is required. Click here to register Registration is required. DIRECTIONS: Meet at 201 Railroad Ave., in Winters

	Mare Island Aglow Holiday Lighted Trail Walk Friday, DEC 26, 2014 5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Every weekend evening Friday–Sunday, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Rain or shine! Walk the 1-mile paved trail with holiday lighting to the Naval Cemetery, Rowser Garden, and the Spirit Ship. Music, refreshments, gift items, and a campfire at the Visitors Center, at the south end of Railroad Ave. Free but donations appreciated. Location: 167 O’Hara Ct Mare Island Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Preserve Visitor Center, Building A-167, at the end of Railroad Ave

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, DEC 27, 2014 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Mare Island Aglow Holiday Lighted Trail Walk Saturday, DEC 27, 2014 5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Every weekend evening Friday–Sunday, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Rain or shine! Walk the 1-mile paved trail with holiday lighting to the Naval Cemetery, Rowser Garden, and the Spirit Ship. Music, refreshments, gift items, and a campfire at the Visitors Center, at the south end of Railroad Ave. Free but donations appreciated. Location: 167 O’Hara Ct Mare Island Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Preserve Visitor Center, Building A-167, at the end of Railroad Ave

	Mare Island Aglow Holiday Lighted Trail Walk Sunday, DEC 28, 2014 5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Every weekend evening Friday–Sunday, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Rain or shine! Walk the 1-mile paved trail with holiday lighting to the Naval Cemetery, Rowser Garden, and the Spirit Ship. Music, refreshments, gift items, and a campfire at the Visitors Center, at the south end of Railroad Ave. Free but donations appreciated. Location: 167 O’Hara Ct Mare Island Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Preserve Visitor Center, Building A-167, at the end of Railroad Ave

	Holiday Week Walk Tuesday, DEC 30, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Explore how the plants and animals of Suisun Marsh prepare for the New Year by joining a free guided walk at Rush Ranch Dec 30 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Solano Land Trust volunteer Gayle Vaughan will lead the walk with the theme “Holiday Exploration of the Marsh.” Hikers should expect to walk alongside the marsh for two miles on mostly level but rugged and slippery dirt trails. Kids and adults of all ages who are able to walk this distance are encouraged to participate. For important details, including meeting location and directions, visit our events calendar. To RSVP and for additional questions, call Vaughan at 707-745-8322. Leader: Gayle Vaughan Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.