Join host Ruben and co-host Rick, along with producers Andy and Bart, in our latest episode of the Benicia Voice Podcast as we dive deep into one of the most pressing issues facing our community: Housing in Benicia and the greater San Francisco Bay Area.

In this episode, we tackle the disconnect between generations when it comes to the housing market. Why is it that so many homeowners can't understand the struggles younger people face in buying or even renting homes in this region? With skyrocketing prices and an ever-competitive market, we'll explore the realities of housing affordability and what it means for the future of our communities.

Don't miss this important conversation—whether you're a homeowner, a prospective buyer, or just someone interested in the dynamics shaping our area. Tune in to gain insights, hear personal stories, and perhaps find some solutions to these challenges.

Join host Ruben, co-host Rick, and producers Andy and Bart for a special episode of Benicia Voice as we dive into the very first Porch Fest Benicia!

We’ll be covering everything you need to know about this unique, community-driven music festival where over 19 porches across town transform into live stages. With local bands, delicious food trucks, and a true celebration of Benicia’s creative spirit, Porch Fest is the event you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we’ll give you the inside scoop on the festival lineup, share tips on how to make the most of your day, and explore the rich history behind this beloved tradition.

Whether you’re a Porch Fest veteran or a first-timer, we’ve got something for everyone.

Don’t miss out—tune in to Benicia Voice and get ready to experience Porch Fest Benicia!

For more details, visit porchfest-benicia.com

Welcome to another episode of *The Benicia Voice*, where we bring you stories, insights, and conversations that matter to our community!

Joining our esteemed host, Ruben and executive producers Andy and Bart, are representatives from Toastmasters International: Mary Bustamante, Linda Stewart, and Helen Karr.

These dynamic women are here to share the incredible benefits of Toastmasters—a global organization dedicated to helping individuals develop their public speaking and leadership skills.

Toastmasters International has been empowering people for nearly a century, offering a supportive environment where members can practice and refine their communication abilities. Whether you're looking to improve your confidence in front of an audience, become a more effective leader, or simply meet like-minded individuals who are committed to personal growth, Toastmasters has something for everyone.

In this episode, we'll dive into the many ways Toastmasters can help transform your life, from overcoming the fear of public speaking to enhancing your career prospects. We'll also explore the unique experiences and success stories of our guests, who have seen firsthand the profound impact of being a part of this remarkable organization.

So sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by the power of words and the possibilities that come with mastering the art of communication!

https://www.toastmasters.org/

Welcome to the Benicia Voice podcast, your local source for in-depth discussions and insights on the issues that matter most to our community!

In today's episode host, Ruben, joined by insightful co-host, Rick Watson, and our dedicated producers, Andy and Bart delve deeper into the California Forever project.

Today, we're diving into the latest developments surrounding the California Forever initiative. In a significant move, the organizers have retracted their plans for the November 2024 ballot. Instead, they're focusing their efforts on completing an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and developing a comprehensive agreement. This shift gives them more time to engage with and understand the needs and concerns of our local communities.

Join us as we unpack what this means for Benicia and the broader region, exploring the potential impacts and opportunities. Let's get started!

In today's episode, host Ruben, joined by executive producers Andy and Bart, welcomes Jeremy Carlock, owner of Gott Watts Electric, Solar, and HVAC, explore the numerous benefits of solar power.

Ruben and Jeremy delve into strategies for customers to optimize their solar investment under the new NEM3 regulations.

Gott Watts is renowned in the Concord area for providing high-quality solar, electric, and HVAC solutions, and they are a proud Diamond Certified business, ensuring top-notch service and customer satisfaction.

For more information, please visit Got Watts website at https://gotwatts.solar

In today's episode, our esteemed host Ruben, along with producers Andy and Bart, speaks with Bob Berman, a representative of the coalition against the East Solano Plan, better known as "California Forever."

The coalition comprises various local community groups, environmental organizations, and concerned citizens who have united to voice their opposition to the project. The opposition argues that the plan poses significant environmental risks, threatens local wildlife habitats, and could lead to unsustainable urban development.

Bob and the crew delve into these and other issues, exploring the potential impacts on the community and the environment, as well as the motivations behind the project.

Additionally, they discuss the perspectives of other groups who support the project, believing in its vision to provide more affordable housing and jobs through programs offered by California Forever such as Solano Home for All, Solano Scholarships, Solano Jobs Guarantee, Green Solano, and Solano Downtowns.

The conversation provides a comprehensive look at the various viewpoints and the potential benefits and drawbacks of the California Forever initiative!

In today's episode, our esteemed host Ruben and producer Andy sit down with Marsha, the director of the animal organization "Saving Dogs' Lives." Marsha explains how the organization works tirelessly to rescue dogs from shelters, abusive situations, and abandonment.

They provide medical care, rehabilitation, and socialization to ensure each dog is healthy and ready for adoption. The organization also collaborates with foster homes and other rescue groups to maximize their reach and impact.

By placing these dogs in loving forever homes, "Saving Dogs' Lives" aims to reduce the number of homeless dogs and promote responsible pet ownership in the community.