Gretchen Smail

Gretchen Smail

22 posts

Gretchen Smail is a fellow with the California Local News Fellowship program. She grew up in Vallejo and focuses on health and science reporting.

follow me :

  Nov 17, 2025

Solano County Kaiser midwives are bargaining for their first union contract

The union has held a one-day strike since negotiations began in May 2024....

Read More

  Oct 31, 2025

Benicia mayor asks air district for grant funding to offset city shortfall

The money would come from recent air pollution violation payments, like an $82 million settlement with Valero....

Read More

  Oct 31, 2025

Bambino’s drag brunch lights up downtown Vallejo

Owner Ismael Palacio said community support has been overwhelming since it debuted in June....

Read More

  Oct 23, 2025

Benicia, Rodeo environmental groups push for stricter emissions monitoring at Bay Area refineries

Environmentalists are questioning the accuracy of data reported by the refineries as the Bay Area Air District prepares to revise its regulations....

Read More

  Oct 02, 2025

Vallejo nonprofit announces new environmental justice initiative

Fresh Air Vallejo is working with the city to engage the community in environmental policy decisions....

Read More

  Oct 01, 2025

Nonprofits brace for loss of donations from Valero with Benicia refinery closure

Valero, often known for its environmental mishaps, also donated millions to charity....

Read More

  Sep 23, 2025

Vallejo Kaiser nurses picket to address layoffs, staffing shortages, and AI

Nurses at 22 different Kaiser facilities in California participated in the day of action....

Read More

  Sep 19, 2025

How end of EPA emissions reporting program could affect Solano County

Refineries in Solano and Contra Costa counties are some of the largest polluters in California....

Read More

  Sep 11, 2025

Environmental groups rally against proposed carbon dioxide pipeline in Solano County

The Montezuma NorCal Carbon Sequestration Hub is currently waiting on a permit from Solano County to build a test well....

Read More

  Oct 11, 2024

Environmental group and Valero, Port of Benicia settle pollution lawsuit

Money from the settlement will go to environmental clean-up groups to mitigate the alleged harm done....

Read More