Solano's best now on display

Solano's best now on display
By Robin Miller
Article Launched: 08/19/2008

Solano County has plenty to crow about these days.

First came the news that the county's display at the California State Fair once again took the "Best of Show" award in the annual county exhibits competition. This marks the fourth year in a row and the fifth time in the past six years that Solano County has taken the top honors.

As in year's past, the design is the result of a collaboration between exhibit coordinator Bob Meador, Supervisor John Vasquez, designer Paul Curtis and electronics expert Cliff Covey.

Built by General Services staffers, the display is truly a countywide effort.

And this year's creation hit new heights, featuring a giant animatronic yellow chicken that actually clucks and talks to welcome visitors to the display.

Above the chicken hangs a spinning, smiling sun and dancing sunflowers. Visitors are treated to a host of displays on agriculture and a garden setting complete with birdhouses made from miniature models of Solano's previous winning county exhibits.

The theme of this year's State Fair is "Going Hollywood," so the display also includes a section highlighting the films that have been shot (at least partially) in Solano County during the past 100 years.

Hats off to the display and those dedicated few who make sure Solano County is represented in style each year.

But the kudos for the county can't end there.

Looking for some information on the upcoming election, I logged onto www.solanocounty.com Monday morning and was pleasantly surprised by what I found there.

The county has redesigned its Web site and the fact is, it's much easier to look at and use. There are still the quick links to services and departments, but the site also offers a "how to" link on county services and quick links to meeting agendas and more.

In addition, the county's new 311 telephone service offers a new way for residents to get information and to connect with county services and programs.

These improvements and additions can only help in the effort to open government access.

And that really is something to crow about.

• The author is city editor of The Reporter and can be reached at citydesk@thereporter.com.