News You Can Use: John Muir Site Curtails Hours of Operation; Wildfire Maps Presentation; Wildflower Hike; Brickyard Run; Summer Camp Registration; Mayor's State of City Address; and More
Our latest roundup of events and activities in and around Martinez
The following roundup of upcoming events and activities in and around Martinez is provided by freelance writer David Scholz and Craig Lazzeretti. Although News You Can Use is usually made available to paid subscribers only, this edition is being provided to free subscribers as well. Please consider becoming a paid subscriber for $5 a month or $50 annually if not already to take advantage of future content such as this and support more local news coverage of Martinez. You can also email craig.lazzeretti@gmail.com for information on other ways to support the newsletter.
NPS closures on Sundays and Mondays now in effect
The John Muir National Historic Site is now closed on Sundays and Mondays. The site will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The closures took effect March 23, according to the National Park Service website, www.nps.gov/jomu/index.htm The move comes after the Trump Administration fired 1,000 NPS workers as part of its federal workforce cost-cutting initiatives.
Martinez Library celebrating Día activities all month
Families are invited to join in celebrating El Dia De Los Niños, El Día De Los Libros (Children's Day, Book Day) at the Martinez Library the entire month of April. Activities include the Lotería I Spy Game. Children can search the children's area and find the clues. Check them off and return your game card for a chance to win a small prize. There is also a Worry Doll Take-and-Make Craft. Pick up supplies to make worry dolls, while supplies last. Contact the library at 1-925-646-9900 or email Serenity Dean at serenity.dean@library.cccounty.us for more information.
Upcoming government meetings on city’s calendar
The City Council will convene on Wednesdays, April 2 and 16, beginning at 7 p.m., to open a month of various governmental meetings. The Parks, Recreation, Marina and Arts Commission is on the docket for Tuesday, April 15, beginning at 7 p.m. The Veterans Commission is on the calendar for Thursday, April 17, starting its meeting at 7 p.m. The Planning Commission is meeting Tuesday, April 22, starting at 7 p.m. The School Liaison Subcommittee meeting to the Martinez Unified School District is scheduled to convene on Thursday, April 24, beginning at 6 p.m. A gathering of the Measure X Oversight Committee wraps the city’s governmental calendar on Thursday, April 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. All meetings are held in the Council Chamber, 525 Henrietta St. Check https://www.cityofmartinez.org/government/meetings-and-agendas for agendas and more information.
Computer docent help offered twice a week at Martinez Library
Computer help sessions for all ages are now being offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Martinez Library, 740 Court St. The Tuesday sessions this month, from noon to 2 p.m., are April 1, 8, 15, 22 and the 29th, and Thursdays, April 3, 10, 17 and 24. Volunteer computer docents are available to assist with basic computer skills as well as printing and copying. Need a little extra help getting your tech questions answered? Sign up for a 15-minute appointment, and docents can assist. Drop-in help is available as time allows.
Fire District to host April 1 presentation on Fire Hazard Severity Zones
Contra Costa Fire Protection District officials will give a presentation on Cal Fire’s updated Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps detailing wildfire risks on Tuesday, April 1, from 6 to 7 p.m. at the County Administration Building, 1025 Escobar St. The presentation can also be joined on Zoom at https://cccfpd.zoom.us/j/89152560630
Members of the community will have an opportunity to provide public comment on the new maps before they are adopted by ConFire. More information is available at the following link: https://www.cccfpd.org/lra-maps/?fbclid=IwY2xjawJU3iNleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHek51n8sAtEJWu0jnpBxolCWXjDJGfuB_zgioByU69HArVSnuaKeQpVO_w_aem_a6CTUintJ_m-uWReoh_xnw
Campbell Theater hosting “Improv for Good” March 29
“Improv for Good,” an improvised theatrical production presented by Spontaneous Minds, will take the stage of Campbell Theater on Saturday, March 29, beginning at 7:30 p.m. The purpose of the production is to raise money and awareness for one of the theater’s charity partners. The show will consist of a number of what are called short form games. They are performed with more of a scene-based twist whenever possible. All are made up from audience suggestions. The second half is a blend of games, and this later portion of the show features some longer scenes that may be humorous with a bit of drama thrown in. Tickets are $20. Contact the Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St. in downtown Martinez, at 925-933-9770 for more information.
SWAN Day celebration March 29 at MRC Clubhouse
Support Women Artists Now (SWAN) encourages all to attend a free SWAN Day event at the Martinez Refining Co. Clubhouse, 1635 Pacheco Blvd., on Saturday, March 29, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Art and live music will be featured.
Renegade Orchestra rocks the Campbell on March 30
Onstage Presents the Renegade Orchestra at the Campbell Theater for a matinee performance on Sunday, March 30, beginning at 2 p.m. Presales for the event are sold out, but an extremely limited number of walk-up, day-of-the-show tickets will be available. The Renegade Orchestra embraces the virtuosic skills of top Bay Area musicians and turns them loose on songs that orchestras have never done (or maybe shouldn’t do). Contact the Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St. in downtown Martinez, at 925-933-9770 for more information.
Tarot social meetup is April 1
The next monthly social meetup for tarot enthusiasts is Tuesday, April 1, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., in the downstairs meeting room at the Martinez Library. Join a fun discussion about tarot, hosted by Carolina Amor. Bring your cards, a notebook and your passion and curiosity for tarot and astrology. Together, participants will talk about tarot, cover different tarot spreads, do practice readings, and cover questions they may have. The purpose of this meeting is to create a tarot and astrology community where people can come together and talk about and share their experiences.
Teen Book Club meets April 2
Teens are invited to hang out, make friends, eat snacks and talk books with the library’s Teen Book Club. The book selection for April is “We Were Liars” by E. Lockhart. The Wednesday, April 2 gathering, open to ages 13 to 18, is from 4 to 5 p.m. in the Martinez Library’s downstairs meeting room. Ask at the information desk to check out a copy.
45th annual Seafarers Regatta set for April 5
The Seafarers Regatta will be held Saturday, April 5, beginning at 8 a.m. at 255 North Court St. Youths participate and compete in maritime events. This year marks the 45th annual event. This event supports youths from all over the Bay Area from Santa Cruz, Petaluma, Napa, Stockton, Lodi, Galt, Alameda, San Francisco, Oakland, Rio Vista and many other ports. It supports Sea Scouts, Explorers, Mariners and Sea Cadets. This event keeps maritime history alive and provides youth insight to an industry that not many know about.
Martinez Library Storytime every Saturday morning
Martinez Library Storytime Saturday morning sessions continue March 29, April 5, 12, 19 and 26, from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Build early literacy skills with stories, songs, finger plays and fun as part of the weekly program. Stay after for playtime or a simple craft.
Content is focused on ages 1 to 5, but all ages and abilities are welcome. For special accommodation, contact the library at 1-925-646-9900 with 72 hours’ notice.
NPS rangers to lead wildflower hike April 5
Join rangers from the National Park Service’s John Muir National Historic Site for wildflower hike scheduled for Saturday April 5, on Mt. Wanda from 9 to 11 a.m. Attendees can expect to hike approximately three miles on an uneven dirt trail over two hours. Bring good walking shoes, sun protection, a snack and water. Meet at the Mt. Wanda Trailhead parking lot at the corner of Franklin Canyon Road and Alhambra Avenue in Martinez. No reservation or registration is required. Contact Ives Humphreys at 1-925-228-8860, ext. 6400 for more information.
Martinez Brickyard Run fundraiser is April 6 at Rankin Park
The 54th annual Martinez Brickyard 4- and 8-mile races to benefit the Alhambra High School cross country/track teams is scheduled for 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 6, at Rankin Park, 100 Buckley St. More information is available at the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/54th-martinez-brickyard-run-4-and-8-mile-run-tickets-1208883024669
“Partners in Crime” returns to Campbell Theater on April 6
The next installment of Spontaneous Mind’s “Partners in Crime” is a matinee on Sunday, April 6, starting at 2:30 p.m. at the Campbell Theater. This first-of-its-kind improvised serial production continues with latest exploits of two “partners” who rely on audience suggestions to help create their evolving characters and decide where the next investigation will lead them. Murder, blackmail, jewel heists and kidnapping are just a few of the cases these two private eyes might be sent to solve.
It's not a comedy, it’s a mystery. Each show features a guest performer in each installment of “Partners in Crime.” Shows are usually two hours in length but may run over, due to their nature. Tickets are $20. Contact the Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St. in downtown Martinez, at 925-933-9770 for more information.
Campbell Theater hosts Open Mic on April 6
The inclusive and supportive group convenes Saturday, April 6, starting at 6 p.m. Whether a first-timer or seasoned performer, all are welcome. And there’s a full bar. No ticket required, but there is a $3 cover. Contact the Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St. in downtown Martinez, at 925-933-9770 for more information.
“The Uninvited” on Campbell bill for April 11
Onstage Repertory Theater presents “The Uninvited” with special guests The Taylor Brothers and Friends on Friday, April 1, at 7:30 p.m.. Wheelchair and companion tickets can only be purchased at the Box Office or by calling the theater and leaving a message. Reserved tickets begin at $26. Contact the Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St. in downtown Martinez, at 1-925-933-9770 for more information.
Third annual library plant swap is April 12
The public is invited to the Martinez Library’s third annual plant swap! Bring cuttings or starts of succulents and other plants and take home some new ones! Drop in any time between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 12 to the branch at 740 Court St. in downtown Martinez.
Needle Arts meetups planned
Bring your crochet, knitting, embroidery or other needle art project to the library for Saturday afternoon gatherings, from 1 to 3 p.m., on March 29, April 12 and 26. Ask for tips from experienced volunteers, or just hang out and enjoy some craft time. The activity for adults and teens from 13 to 18 years old gathers in the Martinez Library’s downstairs meeting room.
“Grindstone” to rock the Campbell April 12
Onstage Repertory Theater presents “Grindstone” at the Campbell Theater on Saturday, April 12, beginning at 8 p.m. “Grindstone” is a group of musicians brought together by friendship and a deep love and appreciation of rock music with a bluesy backbone. Its unique, eclectic sound caters to all audiences and spans many eras.
The group plays music from artists such as Pearl Jam, Tom Petty, Bad Finger, Lenny Kravitz, The Black Keys, ZZ Topp, Pink Floyd, Stevie Ray Vaughn, The Rolling Stones, Kenny Wayne, Shepard Band, The Doors, Jerry Rafferty, The Black Crowes and Seal. Wheelchair and companion tickets can only be purchased at the Box Office or by calling the theater and leaving a message. Reserved tickets start at $30. Contact the Campbell Theater, 636 Ward St. in downtown Martinez, at 925-933-9770 for more information.
Martinez Summer Camp Guide now available
The city has released its guide for 2025 summer camps, including details for the Beaver Meadow Camp, the city-run day camp for kids ages 4-11, along with other youth activities throughout the summer. Summer camp registration opens for residents on Monday, April 14, at 10 a.m.; and Summer Camp Registration opens for non-residents on Monday, April 21, at 10 a.m. More information is available at www.cityofmartinez.org/activities
Mayor to give State of City Address on April 17
Mayor Brianne Zorn will give the annual State of the City Address on Thursday, April 17, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at the IBEW Local 302 Building, 1875 Arnold Drive. The event is open to the public at no charge; reservations are required, and there is limited ticket availability. Tickets can be reserved at the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/martinez-state-of-the-city-address-2025-tickets-1260230466249?msockid=3e04d02efef76e652b6ec4b0ff736fda&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1rZbPc1M4JOtZm5a0-Z-XuCAIdfAjzCKb7paSLIMerLJxC_aQxwt0zQes_aem_T8GydOOQ5hveuwT81TlFRA&utm_source=impact&utm_medium=ebaf&irclickid=RABzF80erxycTPCylTT4Lwu9Uks38qWVQUizxg0&sharedid=172ec35490a342c89783ec6d5a5d7477&irpid=357605&utm_campaign=afsp_ceal_pmk_fpp_0_us_0_0_bau_0&utm_term=357605&utm_content=1818731__172ec35490a342c89783ec6d5a5d7477&irgwc=1
The event, presented by the Martinez Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the city, will be recorded and made available for later viewing on the City Channel.
Annual egg hunt is April 19 at Marina
The annual Easter Egg Hunt for children ages 2 to 9 will be held Saturday, April 19, from 10 to 10:30 a.m. at Waterfront Park.
Tickets are on sale for the AHS spring musical
Tickets are now on sale for Alhambra High School Drama Club’s Spring musical, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” that debuts Wednesday, April 30, at 7 p.m. in the AHS Performing Arts Building at 150 E St. in Martinez. Additional performances will be held Thursday, May 1 and Friday, May 2 at 7 p.m., with a final matinee Saturday, May 3, at 2 p.m. Tickets are available now on GoFan.
Host families sought for the 2025 Martinez Sturgeon season
As excitement gears up for the Martinez Sturgeon’s 2025 campaign, a call too is going out for host families to house players who are coming in from all over the United States and even overseas to play on the squad. Host families are asked to provide the following to the player: 1) their own room for the season; 2) access to a washer and dryer if possible; 3) access to a bathroom and kitchen; and 4) a safe and comfortable environment. Folks interested in assisting with this vital role can inquire with team General Manager Eric Halverson at martinezsturgeon1@gmail.com or 510-205-3409.
Martinez Farmers’ Market held Sundays
The year-round Farmers’ Market continues on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. along Main Street in downtown Martinez. Discover the bounty of the season every Sunday at the Martinez Farmers' Market, a vibrant year-round event nestled along Main Street from Ferry Street (700 block) to Castro Street (600 block). As a community hub for fresh, local produce and artisanal goods, this market is the perfect destination to explore the flavors of the region and support local farmers and producers.
John Muir House to host free John Muir Earth Day Celebration
Join the city and various local organizations on Saturday, April 26, in celebration of Earth Day and the conservation legacy of John Muir. This free-admission event is organized by the John Muir Association and National Park Service at the John Muir National Historic Site, located at 4202 Alhambra Ave. Festivities begin at 10 a.m. and continue until 4 p.m.
Arbor Day tree-planting event is April 26
Martinez will mark the annual Arbor Day observance on the last Saturday in April with a tree planting at Hidden Valley Park. The event at the park, located at Redwood Drive and Center Avenue, begins at 8 a.m.
Waterfront Park to host Bay Area Craft Beer Festival
Over 40-plus local breweries and an impressive selection of over 100 beers to sample, including some home brews, will be on tap for the Bay Area Craft Beer Festival: Boots and Brews, on Saturday, April 26, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Waterfront Park, 245 Court St. For more information, go to www.BayAreaCraftBeerFest.com
“Wuthering Heights” is April Book Club selection
Join the Martinez Library Book Club on Tuesday, April 29, for a discussion of “Wuthering Heights,” by Emily Bronte. The club gathers in the downstairs meeting room from 6 to 7 p.m. Ask at the information desk to check out a copy.
Have an event that you’d like to include in a future roundup? Email craig.lazzeretti@gmail.com
Updated Earth Day event at John Muir House to include the date, which is April 26