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Spotlight on High School Journalism: The Olympian: Castro Valley High School
By David R. Newman
The newspaper industry is in trouble. According to the Pew Research Center, U.S. daily circulation is at an all-time low. Readers and advertisers have been migrating to digital news sources en masse, which has everyone wondering about the future of traditional print media.
We here at the Tri-City Voice see another picture. Seldom included in these reports is the high school newspaper scene, where journalism students are working hard on important stories that shape the way they view the world. Climate change, artificial intelligence, gender fluidity, systemic racism…these are issues that affect us all.
In this series, we take a peek at this new generation of journalists. Each month we will focus on an East Bay high school to see what goes on in their newsroom. How do they operate? What stories are they working on? What skills are they learning?
It’s a story of hope and resilience. And an eternal truth…that good journalism matters, now more than ever.
It was 1956 when the sleepy town of Castro Valley founded their first high school, built by the Hayward Union High School District to accommodate a growing post-war population. That same year, the school newspaper was founded, according to the current Journalism Adviser Matt Johanson. Initially dubbed “The Achaean,” it was later renamed “The Olympian” in the 1970s.
Johanson is a Castro Valley native and alumni of Castro Valley High (CVHS), where he has been teaching Journalism since 2000 (he teaches History as well). “I love it!” he exclaims. “I wouldn’t trade it for anything in the world.” Offered as a 0 Period elective for sophomores, juniors, and seniors, the class fulfills a one-year Career Technical Education (CTE) requirement. Many students return, however, for a second or third year, which makes Johanson very happy.
Known to his students as “Mr. J,” Johanson is proud of all the good work that his Journalism class has produced over the years. “I think it’s really rewarding for many of these young people to have the opportunity to create something that is so meaningful and important. The students run everything and choose all of the content. They tell the stories that would otherwise never be told.”
Entering contests is an important part of the program. “We enter every contest we can find,” laughs Johanson. “It’s motivating for the kids and ups their level of production and quality of their work. It gives them external validation and looks good on their resume.” During the 2022-2023 school year, The Olympian received a combined total of 19 awards in writing, photography, video, and audio, from the California News Publishers Association (CNPA) and the Journalism Education Association of Northern California (JEANC).
The 12-page Olympian comes out seven times per year, covering topics ranging from Taylor Swift, AP Exams, and gender-neutral bathrooms, to coverage of school sporting events, rallies, and theatrical performances. Johanson explains: “The entire class, typically 25-30 students, has three to four weeks to work on a story. These are assigned each cycle by the [Editors in Chief]. Any articles that we can’t fit in the printed paper end up as bonus content on the website.”
The class is composed of two groups: first year student staff writers, and more experienced student editors. “The first few issues are primarily done by the advanced students, while I give the new students a crash course in news writing, interviewing, AP style, photography, etc. That’s why you’ll always see me running around trying to do two things at once.”
Says Media Editor Renata Gutierrez, “I think the biggest challenge as an editor is that not only do you have to finish your own article on time, but you’re also responsible for editing other articles and photos and for giving advice and guidance to the younger team members.” Students enjoy the unconventional structure of the class and the freedom they are given. Johanson encourages students to explore areas of interest, especially in new technologies, as the program gradually moves away from print and into multimedia. “It’s kind of a novel thing for a teenager to pick up a printed paper and read it,” he explains. “They pretty much won’t do it unless you make them.”
To promote The Olympian, the class produces their own videos and posts them to Facebook and YouTube. A podcast called The Trojan Horse was initiated last year by former Media Editor Drew Paxman. Photos and polls are regularly posted to Instagram. And the website is constantly being updated with new articles and featured videos. Johanson credits the pandemic with pushing him to focus more on online content. “I’m learning a lot, and it’s a way for the students to grow their skills and our audience.”
It’s also a great way to connect to former students, many of whom have gone on to become authors, doctors, lawyers, and actors. Says Johanson, “It feels great to hear from them, knowing that they’re successful and happy doing what they do. Some continue with journalism, but many do not. That’s fine. I’ve never felt that they all need to go work for a newspaper.”
It’s ironic, then, that the one of the most famous CVHS alumni is heavily involved in journalism. Her name: Rachel Maddow, of MSNBC’s Rachel Maddow Show, a weekly primetime news program. Maddow is a 1990 graduate of CVHS who went on to study public policy at Stanford, and is the first openly lesbian anchor to host a major news program in the United States. In fact, she and Johanson both attended CVHS around the same time but did not know each other.
Johanson tried for years to connect with Maddow, and finally succeeded in 2012. The TV personality agreed to an interview while visiting the Bay Area to promote her bestselling book, Drift. It was a “defining moment” for OlympianEditor Anna Balassone and her small crew as they asked Maddow about growing up in Castro Valley, coming out publicly as gay, and what it was like interviewing famous people on a regular basis.
Says Johanson, “She was very warm and kind and gracious. It was a heartwarming exchange. Doing interviews gives students the confidence to talk to adults. This is what I try and teach. It’s a big step for some teens. They need it.”
Website: www.cvhsolympian.com
Interview with Rachel Maddow:
https://cvhsolympian.com/news/2012/04/19/rachel-maddow-meets-olympian/
Catch Phantom Art Gallery shows this January
By staff
Phantom Art Gallery in Milpitas features the works of local artists across a variety of ages and experience levels, with displays in Milpitas Community Center and Milpitas Library. Two exhibits are up now— “Perception and Nostalgia” and “Mandalas” —and both will have receptions during January. Currently at the library you can see the intricate mandalas of Jackie Rice-Haga near the international languages section on the first floor and the computer center on the second floor.
A City of Milpitas flyer describes Rice-Haga’s “Mandalas” exhibit:
“Jackie Rice-Haga discovered her passion for art while volunteering at her grandson’s school. She began her artistic journey by learning acrylic painting online. After eight years of dedicated exploration, she made a remarkable transition to pointillism. She was inspired by the intricate dot paintings of an Indian artist. In her mandala creations, Jackie combines brilliant colors, acrylics, sparkling glass crystals, and acrylic gems. Her work is generally done on round wood discs, beginning at the center and expanding outward while often incorporating various shapes, colors, and patterns. For Jackie, creating mandalas has been a transformative journey of self-discovery. Her collection of artwork serves as a poignant reflection of the emotions she has experienced in response to her surroundings and the evolving events in society.”
Meanwhile, “Perception and Nostalgia” is up at Milpitas Community Center (which reopens to the public in January after being closed for the holidays). The city describes artist Saranya Chandrasekaran’s work:
“Milpitas resident Saranya Chandrasekaran works in acrylic paint, pastel, and charcoal. Her Perception images include colorful animal portraits exploring the spectrum she imagines might be seen by birds, which are able to see more colors than humans. Her Nostalgia series capture scenes that remind Saranya of time spent with family and friends in her native Tamil Nadu, India. Saranya is a self-taught artist who works professionally as a software engineer. This is her first gallery exhibit.”
View “Perception and Nostalgia” through January 11 at the Community Center, and “Mandalas” at the library through January 12, after which it will move to the Community Center until March 15. There will be receptions for both exhibits before they end.
Perception and Nostalgia reception
Sunday, Jan 7
5 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Milpitas Community Center
457 E. Calaveras Blvd., Milpitas
Mandalas Reception
Sunday, Jan 21
5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Milpitas Community Center
457 E. Calaveras Blvd., Milpitas
Milpitas Library
160 N. Main St., Milpitas
(408) 586-3210
Care packages for patients and healthcare workers
By Akila Cuddalore
In September of 2023, nine students Anwita Gandesiri, Aryahi Singhvi, Irene George, Vaishnavi Chauhan, Kavya Datt, Mahalakshmi Patchava, Hiya Yadav, and Aanya Giri assembled to create the Washington High School (WHS) chapter of the American Cancer Society. The motive for Social Media Lead, Datt, is her wish to “address a cause [she is] passionate about, to make people happier, to feel accomplished from [her] efforts to create a positive impact, and to show [her] involvement in society.”
The club meets twice a month, during which times club officers and other students brainstorm ideas for future events, plan for fundraisers, learn and share information about cancer, and play games to create community and improve morale from talking openly about such a destructive disease that’s still often a taboo topic. Additionally, officers post information about cancer through the club’s Instagram account once a month. They include quizzes in the content to help the club’s followers learn in an interactive way and test their newly-acquired knowledge.
Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the officers oriented their posts that month around describing different types of breast cancer (invasive, inflammatory, etc.), listing risk factors or causes of breast cancer, teaching about symptoms of breast cancer (fatigue, coughing, development of lumps), and offering suggestions for prevention. They also called for the entire school body one October day to wear pink in acknowledgement of breast cancer. Since the start of the school year, the club officers have held two fundraisers. In partnership with Yogurtland, WHS’s ACS chapter attracted their classmates to the frozen yogurt parlor in exchange for a portion of the proceeds to fund their campaign towards raising awareness of cancer, supporting the folks fighting it, and finding a cure for the terrible disease. They hosted another fundraiser on campus, selling brownies and hot chocolate.
The money they have gathered has helped them fund their biggest project yet: making and distributing care packages. While the biweekly club meetings are hosted at the school, assembling the care packages took place on December 2 and December 9 at the Alameda County Main Library. Club officers wish to include the rest of their community in the action against cancer. Volunteers handmade cards, bookmarks, and bracelets. Using their personal money as well, club officers also bought and added journals, pens, games, puzzles, and (in partnership with the Banter Bookshop) gift cards to the parcels.
On the afternoon of December 22, they delivered the sixty packages to cancer patients, dementia patients, Alzheimer’s patients, and healthcare workers at the Sandy Amos Infusion Center of Washington Hospital (WH), HERS Breast Cancer Foundation, and Brookdale North Fremont Senior Center. President Gandesiri describes the experience: “It was…a pleasure to give the gifts to the [healthcare] workers and see them get appreciation for all they do. Their kind words and sweetness…made my day…giving the gifts to the senior citizens was unforgettable, seeing their smiles and joy. It was…heartwarming…I couldn’t have asked for a better feeling.”
The students definitely have plans to expand the project in following years to include more cancer patients at WH and other local hospitals as well. WHS’s ACS charter is in the midst of organizing a walk-a-thon for February 24, 2024 to direct public attention towards cancer. For member Kavya Datt, the campaign is personal. Datt says what she will cherish most from this experience is creating community, addressing cancer, and recognizing the struggles her family has
been through. She lost her grandmother to breast cancer in 2005 and her aunt to ovarian cancer in 2019. “Cancer is such a bad disease. This is the least I can do [for the loved ones I’ve lost].”
Follow Washington High School’s chapter of the American Cancer Society on Instagram: @whs.acs
Art, Music & Writing Reception
Submitted by Winifred Thompson
The public is invited to a free artists reception on Thursday, January 11 at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts. The event features a collaboration of Gerald Thompson, Winifred Thompson, and Carol Jones Brown’s visual art, with over 40 paintings on display. In addition, Susan Sarti will play jazz piano, and poet Bruce Roberts will perform. There will also be book signing by Pam Holloway and Winifred Thompson. Refreshments will be served.
The Center for the Arts is celebrating its 17th year. It provides a state-of-the-art venue for arts education and performances that are at the heart of a vibrant community.
Art, Music, and Writing Reception
Thursday, Jan 11
4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Castro Valley Center for the Arts
19501 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
Bankhead Presents Invites Audiences to ‘Think Pink’ with Legally Blonde The Musical
Submitted by Livermore Valley Arts
Bankhead Presents is tickled pink to present Tri-Valley Theatre Company’s Production of LEGALLY BLONDE The Musical in the New Year. This fun, upbeat story of self-discovery with Harvard’s beloved leading lady is an Olivier Award-winning Best Musical with a Book by Heather Hach and Music and Lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin, based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture. LEGALLY BLONDE will play for seven performances from January 13 to 28, 2024, at the beautiful Bankhead Theater in Downtown Livermore. Tickets are on sale now online at LivermoreArts.org.
A fabulously fun award-winning musical based on the adored movie, LEGALLY BLONDE The Musical follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams.
Elle Woods appears to have it all. But her life is turned upside down when her boyfriend Warner dumps her so he can attend Harvard Law. Determined to get him back, Elle ingeniously charms her way into the prestigious law school. While there, she struggles with peers, professors, and her ex. With the support of some new friends, though, Elle quickly realizes her potential and sets out to prove herself to the world. With show-stopping songs, sassy humor, and a whole lot of heart, this feel-good musical is a must-see for anyone who believes in chasing their dreams, all while staying true to themselves!
Presenting LEGALLY BLONDE, Tri-Valley Theatre Company (TVTC) is the next act of Tri-Valley Repertory Theatre. With a new Artistic Director, Brian Olkowski, and a Board of Directors led by Glen Riggs as Board President, they are continuing the company’s legacy of creating amazing musical theatre for enjoyment, enrichment, and involvement in the arts in the Tri-Valley. LEGALLY BLONDE marks the first production for this second chapter of the organization. TVTC is excited for what is coming and cannot wait to take audiences along on an incredible journey!
Collaborating with the organization has been an exciting new journey for Livermore Valley Arts (LVA). “We are excited to be home to the first series of performances by the newly named Tri-Valley Theatre Company,” said LVA Executive Director Chris Carter. “I couldn’t be happier for their Artistic Director, Brian Olkowski. With his experience, energy, and leadership, TVTC should be able to reach new heights, and I look forward to further expanding our partnership with them.”
Tickets for all shows in the 2023-2024 Bankhead Presents season are available online at livermorearts.org, by calling (925) 373-6800, or at the box office windows.
Legally Blonde The Musical
Saturday, Jan 13 – Sunday, Jan 28
Saturdays: 8 p.m.
Sundays: 2 p.m.
Bankhead Theater
2400 First St., Livermore
(925) 373-6800
livermorearts.org
Tickets: $45
23 things BART is proud of this year.
Submitted By Bay Area Rapid Transit
We understood travel patterns were changing…so we changed with them.
- BART listened to riders clamoring for more comprehensive service outside 9-to-5 work hours. We increased service during nights and weekends, where ridership is growing fastest. From weekend sporting events to evening concerts, BART is dedicated to being the safest, fastest, most reliable way to get where you need to go for fun.
We made historic updates to modernize our system.
- We are now running exclusively new trains as part of the base schedule.
- We migrated to 100% digital payments, eliminating paper ticket waste, and paving the way for our new state-of-the-art fare gates that will bolster ridership, revenue, and rider safety in 2024.
- We rolled out the first gates to the public at West Oakland Station the last week of the year, ending the year with yet another upgrade to BART’s public safety infrastructure.
We doubled down on safety and cleaning.
- We released our Safe & Clean Plan to show the progress we have made in making our system cleaner, safer, and more reliable.
- Customer on-time performance is at 92%.
- We doubled the police presence in the system, and we won awards for using unarmed Ambassadors and Crisis Intervention Specialists to increase staff presence in our system and help people in need.
- We discontinued the disruptive fare inspections during the morning commute at Embarcadero Station and re-deployed the fare inspectors to ride trains and inspect Clipper cards at more stations.
- We started running shorter trains to enhance safety because data shows without a doubt that active spaces are safer spaces.
- We laun
ched our “Let’s Talk About Us” campaign about domestic violence and Phase II of our Not One More Girl initiative addressing sexual harassment. - We doubled the rate of deep cleaning train cars, and we increased the pressure washing of stations.
We made stations more welcoming.
- We made it easier to pay for parking with the new Tap-and-Go feature on the Official BART Mobile App that allows customers to pay for parking with just one tap.
- We reopened newly remodeled all-gender restrooms at Embarcadero and Downtown Berkeley stations. We now have six open underground restrooms.
- We deployed a comprehensive strategy to clean up Civic Center, resulting in a dramatically improved station experience from previous years.
- We now have ten brand-new escalators in downtown San Francisco and six new canopies along Market Street.
- We’re increasing the discount for low-income riders from 20% to 50% with the Clipper START program beginning January 1, 2024.
We advanced our efforts to build housing on our property.
- BART was proud to celebrate the openings of three transit-oriented development projects – Gateway at Millbrae Station, Waymark at Walnut Creek, and Kapuso Upper Yard at Balboa Park, creating over 1,100 new homes, including over 200 new affordable homes.
- We advanced two additional projects by signing lease options with our selected developers at West Oakland and Phase I at Lake Merritt. These will bring nearly 1,200 new homes, including more than 400 affordable homes for riders who need them most.
We focused on responsible long-term planning to secure a thriving BART today and long into the future.
- We delivered a balanced budget during the most difficult financial time in the history of American public transit. The Grants team secured nearly $400 million of funds in 2023 to help pay for improvements and reinvestment within the BART system.
- We welcomed our new Inspector General and nearly tripled the office’s budget so it can expand and perform even more audits and investigations to identify waste, fraud, and abuse and ensure we are maximizing our efficiency.
- And most impactful of all, we successfully advocated to get financial assistance from the state budget that immediately averted an impending fiscal cliff. BART stands to receive 45% of the region’s allocation and we will continue to build the case for long overdue investment.
We got to know our riders and celebrated transit with our biggest fans.
- From our book club to new anime mascots, we activated our stations and trains with fun events to welcome people back to BART.
We also haven’t lost sight of the future.
- The Link21 program was awarded $11.3 million in project development funds from the state, reaffirming the critical role of our efforts to build a second train crossing between Oakland and San Francisco in helping the State achieve their State Rail Plan vision for Northern California. Link21 launched its first 18-member, community-based Equity Advisory Council to advise program on priority population concerns, including anti-displacement, connectivity, access, and service needs.
BART remains the best and the safest way to travel the Bay Area. We are proud of what we accomplished in 2023. But we know there’s always more to be done. We can’t wait to show riders what’s in store in 2024 and beyond as we continue driving our vision for the future of Bay Area public transit.
Join a discussion on civic engagement
Submitted by Shirley Gilbert
January 6 is a date that is etched in our consciousness, and will be, for all time, connected with the siege by a violent mob on the U.S. capital. To prevent this ever happening again, an urgent call has gone out for greater civic education and engagement and a better understanding of what it means to be an American.
The League of Women Voters of Fremont, Newark, and Union City (LWVFNUC) invites you to a panel discussion on the topic of civic engagement and its importance for the future of our democracy. It will take place on Saturday, January 6, 2024, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Niles Discovery Church in Fremont.
The panel will help define what civic engagement means in the 2020s. Some of the questions to be discussed: Why is civic engagement so important today? What should civic engagement for the 2020s entail? How can young people best develop civic readiness? And what are the challenges and how can we overcome them?
The League brings together a panel whose experience offers fresh possibilities for making civic engagement relevant and impactful. The Principal speaker is Cheryl Cook-Kallio, a 39-year veteran teacher specializing in high school civics. She has a long history of public service and volunteerism and has an M.A. in history with an emphasis on the U.S. Constitution.
Ben Sanders, Civics Education Director for the Alameda County Office of Education will moderate the panel, which will also include Julie Dunkle, founder and director of the LWVFNUC Youth Voter Movement and Fatima Khawaja, student leader at James Logan High School.
Also joining the discussion will be Newark City Council Member Matthew Jorgens and Assembly Member Alex Lee of District 24, which covers part of Alameda and Santa Clara Counties.
You won’t want to miss this stimulating conversation on a topic that is so important to every citizen.
Discussion on Civic Engagement
Saturday, Jan 6
10 a.m. – 12 noon
Niles Discovery Church
36600 Niles Blvd., Fremont
Open to the Public and Free of Charge
https://my.lwv.org/california/fremont-newark-union-city
Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge
By Jack Alcorn
Along the Fremont coast of the San Francisco Bay, south of the Dumbarton Bridge, lies a sprawling wildlife oasis full of migratory birds and marsh dwelling critters. The refuge provides critical habitat for threatened and endangered species.
The park was established in 1972 through the e
fforts of former Fremont Mayor Gus Morrison and Fremont residents. Morrison founded the Citizen’s Committee to Complete the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge and lobbied Congress for the 30,000 acres of wetlands comprising the extensive recreation area. The serene park offers numerous opportunities for people to enjoy the benefits of nature.
The popular park on the water offers many trails to hike. Moderately challenging ascents through the hills or tranquil strolls along the wetlands. Several miles of bike paths traverse the grounds. Eared Grebes, American Avocets and Black-necked Stilts are some of the water fowl that reside in the marshes.
A Visitor Center near the park entrance allows guests to explore the history of the region and refuge. A boat ramp for launching small watercraft into channels that lead to the open water of the Bay is easily accessible at the end of the parking lot near the refuge entrance.
A couple miles drive into the refuge leads to a pier that extends one quarter mile into the San Francisco Bay. The pier is lined with benches and has a portable restroom. The highlight of the park for many locals is the public fishing dock at the end of the pier. The pier and dock provide amazing open air views of much of the San Francisco Bay and its southern shores.
The waters of the refuge are abundant with many consumable species including Brown Rockfish; California Halibut; Red Rock Crab; and an occasional Chinook King Salmon. Catch and release fish often caught at this location include: White Croaker; Surf Perches; and White Sturgeon.
Special features of this fishing hole are:
- A fishing license is NOT required to fish from the pier
- You may fish with two poles from the pier
- Catch an unlimited number of flounder and smelt
- Fish cleaning sink on the pier
Many exotic avians can be seen flying above the pier, perched on bridge supports or on the open water of the bay. Observe Double-crested Cormorants; California Brown Pelicans; Western Sandpipers and many others in their natural habitat.
The refuge is open from sunrise to sunset. For an extended adventure or fishing trip at the refuge, stay at the Dumbarton Quarry Campground. The tent/RV park is located next door to the refuge, on the other side of the Dumbarton Bridge entrance. RV utility hook-ups, barbecue areas, restrooms, and showers are available. Each campsite has a fire pit. There is also an amphitheater for occasional activities and presentations provided by the resident naturalist. A playground for children and a large grassy area make this a great family destination.
City of Fremont seeks winter item donations
Submitted By City of Fremont
As the winter rains begin, individuals experiencing homelessness are in great need of warm, dry clothing and other necessities.
The City of Fremont is partnering with Bay Area Community Services (BACS) to ask the community to lend a helping hand this winter and donate items for our unhoused neighbors. The items will be distributed through city programs and services, such as CleanStart and the Safe Parking Program, and shared with BACS to ensure items get in the hands of those who need them most as quickly as possible.
A Homeless Services Needs List is available for those who would like to donate items. The items most needed are the following:
- Undergarments
- T-shirts
- Sweatpants
- Sweaters
- Sleeping bags
- Tarps
- Tents
All clothing items should be in adult sizes from small to XXXL.
Listed on the Homeless Services Needs List are additional drop off locations and times to make donating more convenient. See the list here: www.fremont.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/14346/638385998278900865
If you have questions, please contact Paula Manczuk-Hannay in the City’s Human Services Department at (510) 574-2088 or by email: pm*************@fr*****.gov
Every donation, no matter how small, can help ensure that our neighbors have the essential items they need to stay warm and safe this winter. If you have already donated items or plan to do so, thank you for your support and for giving back!
For other ways you can help, including making a monetary donation online, please visit the City’s How to Help webpage: www.fremont.gov/residents/homeless-response/how-to-help
Thank you for your continued interest in this topic!
Fremont Film Screening at library
Submitted by Alameda County Main Library
On Saturday, January 6 and Sunday, January 7, Fremont Library will host a screening on the indie film Fremont. The plot of this 2023 movie takes place in Fremont and features many familiar Bay Area locations.
An IMDb summary of the plot states, “Donya, a former Afghan translator for the U.S. government, lives alone in Fremont, California. When she’s promoted to writing the fortunes at her job at a fortune cookie factory in the city, Donya’s loneliness and longing drive her to send a message out in a cookie, unsure where it may lead. Tenderly sculpted and lyrically shot in black-and-white, Babak Jalali’s FREMONT is a wry, deadpan vision of the universal longing for home.”
The January screening dates will include a Q&A with movie producer Sudnya Shroff.
Fremont film screening
Saturday, Jan 6 – Sunday, Jan 7
Saturday: 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Sunday: 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Fremont Main Library Fukaya Meeting Room
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Home for the Holidays discount continues through January 7
Submitted by Humane Society Silicon Valley
Thinking of adding a furry friend to your home? Through January 7 take
“home for the holidays” an adult animal and get 25% off the adoption fee, courtesy of Humane Society Silicon Valley. Choose from available dogs or cats at Milpitas Animal Community Center or Petco West San Jose Neighborhood Adoption Center.
Follow these easy steps to bring home your new friend:
- Check out our available animals online at www.hssv.org. If the animal you are interested in is in a foster home, fill out the appointment request form in the animal’s online profile.
- Visit during adoption hours. When you arrive, check in and meet with an adoption counselor who will introduce you to available animals. Adoptions are first-come first-serve, so if you are interested in adopting one specific animal, please let our staff know right away!
- Let’s go home, buddy! If you’re ready to adopt, an adoption counselor will help you complete all paperwork and payment. Your new pet will be ready to go home the same day! All dogs/puppies must leave on a leash and collar and cats/kittens must leave in a carrier. These items may be purchased during your visit if you do not already have them.
Milpitas Animal Community Center
Mon – Wed: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thurs: 12 noon – 7 p.m.
Fri: 12 noon – 7 p.m.
Sat-Sun: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
901 Ames Ave., Milpitas
(408) 262-2133 x150
Neighborhood Adoption Center at Petco West San Jose
Thurs – Sat: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sun: 12 noon – 5 p.m.
500 El Paseo de Saratoga, San Jose
(408) 262-2133 x150
Regional Parks Happenings in January
Submitted by East Bay Regional Park District
Wednesday Walk: Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline
Take a 4×6 hike—pass four creeks and walk almost 6.5 miles on this flat, paved trail. View marshland and amazing birdlife. Bring water and a snack. Wear sturdy footwear, bring water and dress for the weather. The trail may be muddy. Heavy rain cancels.
The hike is intended for ages 8 years and up. No registration needed; this is a drop-in program.
Naturalist for this hike:
Susan Ramos (510) 544-3182 sr****@eb*****.org.
Wednesday Walk: Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline
Wednesday, Jan 3
9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline
Tidewater Boating Center
4675-A Tidewater Ave., Oakland
(510) 544-3187
www.ebparks.org/parks/martin-luther-king
Bird Walk
The Bay Area bursts with bird life! New and experienced birders alike are invited to join us as we discover patterns of behavior, migration, and habitat. For ages eight and up; parent participation required.
Bird Walk
Saturday, Jan 6
9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Shadow Cliffs
2500 Stanley Blvd., Pleasanton
$6 parking fee
Woodland Creature Garland
Join us in Sunol to celebrate the winter season. Meet at the visitor center and discover how winter reveals woodland habitats and creatures of the East Bay. Celebrate the season by creating your own garland! (This is a free drop-in program, while supplies last.) The program and instruction begin at 10:30 a.m. Please arrive early to give yourself enough time to create your garland, and no later than 11:30 a.m. to complete the craft.
Be wilderness ready; there is no cell service or running water in the park. This program is for children eight and up; adult participation required. Individual group size should not exceed six.
Naturalist for this program:
Erica Stephens es*******@eb*****.org
Woodland Creature Garland
Saturday, Jan 6
10:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Sunol Regional Wilderness Preserve
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(888) 327-2757
www.ebparks.org/parks/sunol
$5 parking fee
Meet the Chickens
Check out our coop full of chickens! Discover why they like to roam around the farmyard and scratch and peck at the ground while you feed them a little snack. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required. The event is disabled accessible. Ardenwood admission fee applies.
Meet the Chickens
Saturday, Jan 6
10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org/parks/ardenwood
Entry fee: $2-$4
What’s the Weather?
How is weather different from climate? What is El Niño? Explore the answers to these questions and come outside to experience and measure weather parameters like wind speed, air temperature and pressure, humidity, and cloud cover. This event is appropriate for all ages. Parent participation required. Parking fees apply where charged. Wheelchair accessible. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required.
Naturalist for this program:
Erin Blackwood EB********@eb*****.org (510) 544-3213
What’s the Weather?
Saturday, Jan 6
11 a.m. – 12 noon
Coyote Hills
8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont
(510) 544-3220
www.ebparks.org/parks/coyote-hills
Parking $5
Outdoor Discoveries! Frogs and Toads
Explore the world around you in this preschool and homeschool nature series! Meet the naturalist at the visitor center and get ready to adventure together. The program consists of a lesson with a naturalist followed by a craft or activity. Dress for fun with clothes that can get mucky and close-toed (or toad) shoes.
The event is intended for ages four to eight; adult participation required. Younger siblings are welcome!
Outdoor Discoveries! Frogs and Toads
Monday, Jan 8
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Sunol Regional Wilderness Preserve
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(888) 327-2757
www.ebparks.org/parks/sunol
$5 parking fee
Nature Journal Stroll
Connect to your East Bay parks through nature journaling! Learn techniques while strolling along the trail. What will we discover along the way?
Take a slow stroll from the Shadow Cliffs Pavilion with frequent stops along the way. The path is unpaved and gravel with minimal incline. The entire walk will not exceed a 1.5 miles round trip.
Beginners and all skill levels welcome! This walk is aimed at ages nine and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Participants must bring their own nature journal supplies, drinking water, blanket &/or chair.
Dress in layers. The walk occurs rain or shine. Each individual group size not to exceed six people maximum.
Naturalist for this hike:
Erica Stephens es*******@eb*****.org
Nature Journal Stroll
Tuesday, Jan 9
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Shadow Cliffs
2500 Stanley Blvd., Pleasanton
$6 parking fee
Local History Museum Receives Aid Through Local Rotary Funding
Submitted by Washington Township Museum of Local History
The Washington Township Museum of Local History would like to formally thank the Newark Rotary Foundation and Niles Rotary Foundation for their support of the museum and its mission in 2023.
In June of 2023, Newark Rotary Foundation awarded the museum $3,000! This funding will help the museum continue to reach into the local community through amazing field trips. Dianne Holmes, Education Coordinator for the museum, has created top-notch programs centered around California State Standards for 3rd and 4th grade curriculum. Everyone at the museum is looking forward to moving past the stumbling block of school bus funding so that more children in Newark can experience the museum and rancho for themselves.
Additionally, in December of 2023, Niles Rotary Foundation awarded the museum $2,100! This funding will also help the museum educate local 3rd and 4th grade students on the history of Fremont, Newark and Union City.
The number one reason that students are unable to visit the museum’s two field trip sites (as reported by teachers) is lack of transportation and/or lack of transportation funding. These funds generously provided by Rotary will go toward getting students to the museum and rancho who are currently unable to do so. If bussing still doesn’t work for these schools, the funds will be repurposed for discounted tours and/or box tours (which are tours that are brought directly into the classroom).
This much-needed financial support is so appreciated! Thank you again to Newark and Niles Rotary for helping the museum keep history alive in Fremont, Newark and Union City.
Washington Township Museum of Local History
museumoflocalhistory.org
‘Stewart Udall: The Politics of Beauty’ Documentary Screening
Submitted by Niles Discovery Church
On January 13, Niles Discovery Church will host a Zoom screening of the documentary “Stewart Udall: The Politics of Beauty.” Stewart Udall was one of America’s most effective environmentalists in his role as Secretary of the Interior, yet his legacy is not well recognized. The film highlights the bipartisan nature of Udall’s efforts and calls on us to work together to protect our shared natural heritage.
As the film explains, Stewart Udall valued frugality and quality-of-life over consumerism and limitless wealth acquisition. He was more concerned with people being able to live simply and resourcefully, in harmony with nature, conserving the nation’s lands for the enjoyment of generations to come. Udall’s humility and humanity were the cornerstones of his decision-making process. After realizing the effects of the interstate highway system decades into the project, of which he was originally an advocate and supporter, he pivoted and stressed the importance of walkability in neighborhoods to maintain healthy communities.
Udall became well-known for overseeing the addition of several national parks, wildlife refuges, monuments, and historic and recreational sites during his time as Secretary of the Interior serving under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson. However, this film illuminates aspects of Udall’s accomplishments not typically included in the history, such as his personal struggles with partisanship in trying to solve some of the world’s wicked problems, as well as the tremendous support of Stewart’s stalwart wife of 55 years, Ermalee “Lee” Webb Udall.
Join us on Zoom for a special screening of this documentary, followed by a discussion, Saturday, January 13, at 1:30 p.m. You can register for this screening and others by visiting bit.ly/SSDSZoom.
‘Stewart Udall: The Politics of Beauty’ Documentary Screening
Saturday, Jan 13
1:30 p.m.
Via Zoom: bit.ly/SSDSZoom
https://nilesdiscoverynews.wordpress.com/
Community Tree Planting Day
Submitted By Urban Forest Friends
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr., local urban forestry non-profit Urban Forest Friends (UFF) will be hosting a Community Tree-Planting in Central Park on Saturday, January 13. The event will take place near the City of Fremont Nature Learning Center located behind Aqua Adventure Waterpark.
The City of Fremont Community Services Department will be participating along with Assembly member Alex Lee and local volunteers. This Planting Day will help the city to continue moving forward to meet our goal of planting 1,000 trees each year.
For more information please visit: https://www.urbanforestfriends.org/
Community Tree Planting Day
Saturday, Jan 13
Fremont Nature Learning Center
40000 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont
(510) 604-8206
https://www.urbanforestfriends.org/
Air District asks public to not burn wood through the New Year’s holiday
Submitted by Bay Area Air Quality Management District
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is asking the public to not burn wood in their fireplaces, woodstoves or outdoor fire pits through the New Year’s holiday to keep air quality from becoming unhealthy.
Without additional wood burning activity, air quality is expected to be moderate throughout the Bay Area. However, wood burning through the New Year’s holiday can significantly impact localized areas and neighborhoods. Wood burning can also significantly impact indoor air quality. A Spare the Air Alert is NOT in effect and wood burning is not illegal. However, wood burning is strongly discouraged.
The Air District is also asking residents to refrain from setting off personal fireworks displays through the holiday weekend. Fireworks and wood smoke can cause an unhealthy spike in air pollution and create excess smoke and ash in neighborhoods.
Like cigarette or wildfire smoke, wood smoke contains carcinogenic substances such as particulate matter, benzene and formaldehyde, which are harmful when inhaled. Wood smoke is the major source of air pollution in the Bay Area in the wintertime and is especially harmful to children, the elderly and people with respiratory conditions.
Bay Area residents can find out if a Spare the Air Alert is in effect by:
- Signing up for text alerts. To sign up, text the word “START” to the number 817-57
Calling 1-877-4NO-BURN
- Visiting www.sparetheair.org or www.baaqmd.gov
- Signing up for automatic e-mail AirAlerts at www.sparetheair.org/alerts
- Signing up for automatic phone alerts at www.sparetheair.org/alerts
- Downloading the Spare the Air iPhone or Android app
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is the regional agency responsible for protecting air quality in the nine-county Bay Area. For more information about Spare the Air, visit www.sparetheair.org.
EARTHTALK Q&A
New Year’s Resolutions: Think Green This Year
By Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss
Dear EarthTalk: What are some New Year’s Resolutions I can make to help the environment? —M. Lind, Sturges, MI
Given the escalating environmental challenges facing our planet, directing some of our New Year’s aspirations toward eco-conscious endeavors can make a tangible difference. Luckily there are lots of ways to put your resolve to work for the planet…
For starters, one of the most impactful resolutions is to adopt a more mindful approach to consumption. Commit to reducing waste by embracing practices like reusing, repurposing and recycling. Shift to buying reusable items and those with minimal packaging. Support brands committed to sustainable practices. Minimize your use of single-use plastics, another way to make a big impact without much effort. Choose stainless-steel water bottles, cloth shopping bags and glass food containers. Say no to plastic straws, cutlery and excessive packaging whenever possible.
Making more sustainable food choices is yet another way to make 2024 greener than 2023. Adopting a more plant-based diet or reduce meat consumption to significantly reduce environmental impact. Pledge to support local, organic and sustainably sourced foods. Also, strive to reduce food waste by planning meals, composting organic waste and supporting initiatives that redistribute surplus food to those in need.
Another resolution that any of us can make is to reduce personal carbon emissions. Embrace alternatives to fossil fuel-based transportation by walking, cycling, carpooling or using public transit. Also, consider investing in energy-efficient appliances, using renewable energy sources, and supporting initiatives that offset carbon emissions. While they might not be top of mind, changing up daily habits can also reduce your carbon footprint and overall environmental impact. Conserve water by fixing leaks, taking shorter showers and using water-saving appliances. Grow your own food, support local biodiversity by planting native species, and prioritize eco-friendly practices in your daily routine.
Another way to create positive change is to speak out more for environmental policies and initiatives. Support community groups and environmental organizations, and join in local clean-up efforts or conservation projects. Engage in discussions, educate others, and advocate for sustainable practices in your workplace, schools and social circles. Spread awareness about environmental issues and inspire others to take action. Share information on social media, organize educational events, or start a community garden or recycling program. Encourage friends, family and colleagues to join in your eco-friendly endeavors, fostering a collective effort toward a greener future.
Making a resolution is just the first step—commitment is key to achieving lasting change. Progress may require adjustments and perseverance, but every step contributes to a healthier planet. By incorporating these resolutions into your New Year’s goals, you become an active participant in the global movement toward environmental stewardship. To
gether, let us embark on this journey to protect and preserve the natural world we all call home. Cheers to a more sustainable, eco-conscious year ahead!
ONLINE CONTACTS
- 10 Sustainable New Year’s Resolutions
www.centerforecotechnology.org/10-easy-green-new-years-resolutions/
- 12 Actionable and Sustainable New Year’s Resolutions
EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: qu******@ea*******.org.
News and notes from around the world
Submitted by The Association of Mature American Citizens
Merry Christmas
Sleigh bells ring, big time, in the Big Apple thanks to the iconic movie star sled that’s spending the holiday season in the heart of midtown Manhattan. It arrived last week in time for Christmas and is hanging out at Central Park thanks to Halesite, Long Island fire district manager, Larry Northcote. That’s where the sled spends most of the year. As Northcote put it, “Every year we have a little holiday committee, and they’ll spruce it up, they’ll paint it, they’ll fix any cracks that have developed. We do our little part to spread some holiday cheer.” See the sled on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qy54O1mDP-A
Tis the season
Bailey Davis of Columbus, OH was on her way to work. She made a rest stop and, perhaps because she was in a hurry, she left her engagement ring on the bathroom sink. She returned to her car, drove off and en route saw that her ring was missing. Back she went and, sure enough, the ring was gone. Luckily it was an honest young man by the name of Coty Warren who found it and went online in hopes of finding the ring’s owner. He found Davis’ post on Facebook and called her. So relieved was she that she offered him a $1,000 reward, which her hero, Warren, declined. A Christmas story if there ever was one! Watch the full story on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWrDcyjc0To
Fear not
It got pretty scary in Nashville and Indianapolis last week when pranksters posted photos on Facebook of lions on the loose in those two cities. The photos were shared “thousands of times.” The posts were scary but “incredibly false,” according to the authorities in each city. They noted that the pictures were eight years old and were taken in South Africa way back when. See the photo on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=SFsB-AyIODk
The Association of Mature American Citizens is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization representing membership in Washington, D.C. and in local congressional districts nationwide. More information is available on its website at www.amac.us.
Connecting the ‘Dots’ with Asterisms
By Kat Troche
In our December Night Sky Notes, we mentioned that the Orion constellation has a distinct hourglass shape that makes it easy to spot in the night sky. But what if we told you that this is not the complete constellation, but rather, an asterism?
An asterism is a pattern of stars in the night sky, forming shapes that make picking out constellations easy. Cultures throughout history have created these patterns as part of storytelling, honoring ancestors, and timekeeping. Orion’s hourglass is just one of many examples of this, but did you know Orion’s brightest knee is part of another asterism that spans six constellations, weaving together the Winter night sky? Many asterisms feature bright stars that are easily visible to the naked eye.
Try looking for these asterisms in winter and beyond:
Winter Circle – This asterism, also known as the Winter Hexagon, makes up a large portion of the Winter sky using stars Rigel, Aldebaran, Capella, Pollux, Procyon, and Sirius as its points. Similarly, the Winter Triangle can be found using Procyon, Sirius, and Betelgeuse as points. Orion’s Belt is also considered an asterism.
Diamond of Virgo – This springtime asterism consists of the following stars: Arcturus, in the constellation Boötes; Cor Caroli, in Canes Venatici; Denebola in Leo, and Spica in Virgo. Sparkling at the center of this diamond is the bright cluster Coma Berenices, or Bernice’s Hair – an ancient asterism turned constellation!
Summer Triangle – As the nights warm up, the Summer Triangle dominates the heavens. Comprising the bright stars Vega in Lyra, Deneb in Cygnus, and Altair in Aquila, this prominent asterism is the inspiration behind the cultural festival Tanabata. Also found is Cygnus the Swan, which makes up the Northern Cross asterism.
Great Square of Pegasus – By Autumn, the Great Square of Pegasus can be seen. This square-shaped asterism takes up a large portion of the sky, and consists of the stars: Scheat, Alpheratz, Markab and Algenib.
Tracing these outlines can guide you to objects like galaxies and star clusters. The Hyades, for example, is an open star cluster in the Taurus constellation with evidence of rocky planetary debris. In 2013, Hubble Space Telescope’s Cosmic Origins Spectrograph was responsible for breaking down light into individual components. This observation detected low levels of carbon and silicon – a major chemical for planetary bodies. The Hyades can be found just outside the Winter Circle and is a favorite of amateur and professional astronomers alike.
How to Spot Asterisms
Use Star Maps and Star Apps – Using star maps or stargazing apps can help familiarize yourself with the constellations and asterisms of the night sky.
Get Familiar with Constellations – Learning the major constellations and their broader shapes visible each season will make spotting asterisms easier.
Use Celestial Landmarks – Orient yourself by using bright stars, or recognizable constellations. This will help you navigate the night sky and pinpoint specific asterisms. Vega in the Lyra constellation is a great example of this.
Learn more about how to stay warm while observing this Winter with our upcoming mid-month article on the Night Sky Network page through NASA’s website!
This article is distributed by NASA’s Night Sky
Network (NSN). The NSN program supports astronomy clubs across the USA dedicated to astronomy outreach. Visit nightsky.jpl.nasa.gov to find local clubs, events, and more!
4 ways robotics, AI will transform industry in 2024
By Anders Billesø Beck, VP of Innovation and Strategy, Universal Robots
It’s time to reflect upon the trends from the past 12 months while looking ahead at what 2024 has in store for the world of robotics.
2023 was an exciting year for innovation. The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, including generative AI, captured global attention and dominated headlines. However, the adoption of generative AI for businesses is still very much in its early stages and questions around how best to harness this technology remain at the forefront of many minds.
Digital transformation is an ongoing process, so we can expect to see this year’s breakthrough trends continuing to shape society into next year. But how will these trends impact robotics and what can the manufacturing industry expect to see next year?
- AI will set a new pace of development in robotics
AI is transforming the world of software development, making it cheaper, faster, and more effective. Software is a key component of automation, and with AI, software developers will be able to create more customized and optimized solutions for various tasks and challenges. If software development has sometimes felt like digging with a shovel, the introduction of AI is like bringing two horses and a plow to the process. However, automation expertise will remain a scarce and valuable resource in the process of AI revolutionizing manufacturing.
It has been interesting, and perhaps surprising, to see AI changing the lives of office workers before it touches working practices in most factories. I look forward to seeing the benefits of machine learning reach more manufacturers in 2024. After all, the technology is already there – we have many partners developing applications using AI to allow our robots to perform more complex and diverse functions. For example, AI allows robots to have human-like perception, handle variation, move parts precisely, adapt to changing environments, and learn from their own experience.
With time, these capabilities will lead to unprecedented flexibility, quality, and reliability in manufacturing.
- Developments in robotics software will enable more sharing and reuse
Robotics software is the glue that binds users to their mechanical counterparts – a digital connectivity that transcends physical interaction.
Software developments are enabling a new dimension of collaboration – connecting the people who use robots. 2024 will see software developments leading to new levels of sharing and reusability. Imagine a world where, instead of reinventing the wheel, we leverage existing software assets — components, interfaces, algorithms — across multiple applications. It’s a principle that already underpins our UR+ partner ecosystem, streamlining innovation and reducing time-to-market. I can’t wait to see this evolve in 2024.
- Companies will fuse IT and OT using data to improve operations
The future of manufacturing is intricately linked to IT/OT integration as data will underpin innovation and efficiency. Research shows that the manufacturing industry has been at the forefront of adopting cloud-based software services and we are already seeing some customers use these to enhance quality, cost efficiency, and predictability. That makes me confident that 2024 will see the growth of data-driven logistics and manufacturing systems.
Many still have an outdated view of the cloud as merely being a data collector and backup function, as we know it from our private lives. But the real potential and power don’t lie in storing data or even in linking machines. The real transformative leap comes when cloud-based software services connect humans and machines and help manufacturers simplify complex processes and make smarter decisions.
The benefits of this digital evolution are significant. Remote access to manufacturing data enables quick responses to issues and continuous automation improvement. With dynamic systems now essential, trusted cloud technologies offer the latest in security and state-of-the-art services. Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) companies highlight this progression, promising improved efficiency and reduced downtime through Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) visualization and predictive maintenance.
As we approach 2024, manufacturers stand to gain from these advancements, achieving higher quality, reduced downtime, better predictability, and cost optimization. This transition is a strategic necessity, supporting the shift towards high-volume, high-mix production, resilient supply chains, competitive data utilization, and sustainability goals.
- Logistics will be a focus area for robotics
Earlier this year, Interact Analysis looked at projected growth rates in robot shipments across industries. The stand-out projected growth area? Logistics, where Interact Analysis put the projected CAGR for collaborative robots (cobots) at 46% for 2023-2027. I’m not surprised as the market for non-industrial applications is growing fast.
Like manufacturing, many logistics companies face serious labor shortages while pressure is increasing as a result of globalization, e-commerce, and complex multi-channel supply chains. More logistics, warehouse, and distribution centers will turn to automation next year to provide services faster and with greater accuracy.
Facing the challenge of surging e-commerce demands, for example, one logistics company we worked with revolutionized its fulfillment center with cobots, resulting in a 500% surge in efficiency and order accuracy. The automation system, adept at processing thousands of orders daily, particularly excelled during peak periods, like Black Friday, where a robot managed up to 4,400 orders in one day with just a small crew for replenishment.
Robots – and the smart use of data – are poised to revolutionize logistics businesses across the whole value chain from incoming packages to outbound logistics.
The pace of development in robotics remains impressive – I look forward with great anticipation to another exciting year of progress.
About the Author
Anders Billesø Beck leads the development of cobot technologies to keep global businesses agile, productive and innovative.
Anders is vice president for strategy and innovation at Universal Robots, the global leader in flexible automation, and holds a PhD in robotics from DTU, the Technical University of Denmark.
Social Security Matters
By Russell Gloor, National Social Security Advisor, AMAC Foundation
Ask Rusty – If my wife claims now, will it hurt my Social Security amount?
Dear Rusty: I am 69 years old, and my wife turned 70 early this year. I am still working full time. My wife is not working, but she got a letter from Social Security saying she should take her Social Security as soon as possible. My question is: Since my wife has reached her full retirement age, can she take her SS without it affecting mine when I claim? I plan to work at least another year, depending on how the economy goes (I may have to work longer if it doesn’t get better). I have IRAs and a 401k to pull from when I retire. Signed: Anxious Husband
Dear Anxious: The reason your wife received a letter from Social Security (SS) suggesting she claims now is because her benefit reached maximum some time ago at age 70. Thus, there is no reason for her to wait beyond age 70 to claim. By delaying past age 70 your wife is losing money, so she should apply as soon as possible. I suggest your wife call Social Security at 1 (800) 772-1213 (or your local office) right away to request an appointment to apply for her benefits, and she should be sure to request six months of retroactive payments (SS will pay up to six months retroactively).
If your wife has a “my Social Security” online account, she can also apply online at www.ssa.gov/apply, but she should be sure to request six months of retroactive benefits in the “Remarks” section of the online application. Because your wife is more than six months past age 70, getting six months’ retroactive benefits will not reduce her age 70 benefit amount. Nor will your wife claiming her benefits now negatively affect your Social Security when you later claim.
Even though you plan to continue working, likely beyond 70 years of age yourself, you should not wait beyond age 70 to claim, for the same reason: Your benefit will reach maximum when you are 70. You can apply for your benefits up to four months in advance, and specify you want benefits to start in the month you turn 70. If you haven’t already done so, you may wish to create your own “my Social Security” online account now at www.ssa.gov/myaccount, which will make it easier for you to apply online when the time comes next year. Applying online is, by far, the most efficient way, but you need to have your online account set up first to do so.
Just so you know, there is no need to worry that you won’t get credit for work income earned after you have applied for your benefits. Even after you are collecting benefits, Social Security will automatically review your earnings each year when that info is received from the IRS (after you file your income tax return). If your most recent earnings are higher than those in any of the 35 years of lifetime earnings used to calculate your benefit when you claim, Social Security will automatically increase your monthly payment amount. In other words, you shouldn’t delay past age 70 to claim Social Security because you’re working—you’ll still get credit for those earnings, automatically.
So, I suggest that your wife take fast action to apply for her Social Security benefits to avoid losing any more money, and that you plan to apply for your benefits to start when you turn 70. There is no financial advantage to waiting beyond age 70 to claim, even if you continue working.
This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or financial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit our website (amacfoundation.org/programs/social-security-advisory) or email us at ss*******@am************.org.
Trash Talk
By The Pickup Artist
This is the January 2024 edition of Trash Talk, a column devoted to cleaning up our neighborhoods, our environment, and our outlook on life.
Recycle Christmas Trees
After Christmas, most sanitation services will pick up trees for free; just follow the instructions for your specific waste management company.
- Trees cannot exceed the limit for length and may need to be cut; check with your service provider.
- Remove tinsel, lights, and ornaments. Trees are going into the chipper to become mulch.
- Put your tree on the curb the night before your regularly scheduled pickup.
For more information on recycling DOs and DON’Ts, check with the service
provider for your area:
www.MilpitasSanitation.com/wishcycling
www.WM.com/us/en/recycle-right
www.RepublicServices.com/recycling-guide
Happy New Year!
Just because we are starting a new year and the Christmas season is over, doesn’t mean we have to drop our celebration of joy. We can continue to wish people well and hope for peace. Joy doesn’t need to go away because we aren’t singing about it. It’s kind of like Happy Hour – can’t we be happy the other 23 hours of the day? Happiness is a state of mind, and only we can control it. Relish in it – be Yayful!
Trick Question for Today
What item do many people buy with the express purpose of throwing it away in landfill rather than recycling it? Think about it first, and then see the answer below.
Recycling Styrofoam
EPS, also known as Styrofoam, is a type of plastic that is commonly used for products such as cups, food containers, protective wrapping, frozen food shipping containers, and packing peanuts. It takes a long time to decompose in landfills. It’s difficult to recycle, but some recycling centers can process the material.
Look for a foam recycling center near you at www.recyclefoam.org/about-foam-recycling. Alternatively, some shipping stores will also take back packing peanuts for reuse as well. I used to take packing peanuts to the shipping department where I worke
d. They needed to buy them anyway, so appreciated the donations. Local governments may also have drop-off locations specifically for Styrofoam packaging. Styrofoam can be placed in some curbside recycling bins, just make sure to research beforehand whether they are accepted by your local recycling program.
Company unveils bladeless “honeycomb” wind turbines
(Information based on an article written by Allison Hunt © Provided by The Cool Down)
If you’ve driven down Altamont Pass you’ve seen the traditional three-blade wind turbines. This type has been accused of killing birds, since they must be able to withstand strong winds, are solidly mounted, and are expensive to install and run. They do take a large area for an entire wind farm.
Katrick Technologies based in Scotland has developed a new method that could be an improvement. Their new honeycomb-shaped wind turbines are take less space so they are smaller and can be mounted on buildings in urban areas. They work using “oscillating aerofoils” to extract energy, instead of the typical rotations of the fan design. Too see this in action, this link provides some interesting videos: https://www.katricktechnologies.com/wind-technologies
Katrick’s tests show “just 1km of our roadside panels could charge 80,000 Tesla 90kW cars or power 760 homes each year.”
In any case, the smaller, simpler, and safer design’s pros may outweigh any cons. Energy Industry Review even said this design “could revolutionize the way that renewable energy is generated.”(https://energyindustryreview.com/tech/innovative-new-wind-technologies/) Lower energy costs will benefit us all.
Other companies are also developing new wind turbine technologies. Texas company Aeromine has created a compact and efficient wind turbine (www.thecooldown.com/green-tech/rooftop-wind-turbine-aeromines-energy/and their wind turbine design) is modeled off of race cars and works in tandem with solar panels (www.thecooldown.com/solar-panels). Both models are in active development.
Answer to Trick Question for Today
You get points if you said plastic garbage bags or trash-can liners are things that many people use with the intention of throwing them into landfill. Consider using paper bags instead. They are recyclable, but even if tossed into landfill, they decompose faster and better.
The quotes for today:
“Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does.” – William James
Contact Information
You can contact me by email at Th******************@Ou*****.com, or scan the QR code to generate an email. Your comments and suggestions could be used in future Trash Talk columns. What’s on your mind?
Keep your houseplants safe from cats
By Melinda Myers
Photos courtesy of True Leaf Market
Growing houseplants when curious cats are in the house can be challenging. We want our cats to be safe and happy while keeping our houseplants intact. You can accomplish both with a few simple strategies.
Boost indoor gardening success by selecting plants suited to your home’s growing conditions and gardening style. Then be sure to remove any toxic plants to ensure your pet’s safety. Consult with your veterinarian and visit the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) website for a list of pet-safe and toxic plants.
Create a list of all the plants you are growing. Include both common and botanical names for accurate identification. Do a bit of research on the care they need and their toxicity to your pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested a toxic plant, you’ll have the proper plant name when contacting your veterinarian.
Match pet-friendly plants to their preferred light conditions. An east- or west-facing window provides enough light for most indoor plants. Keep those that need brighter light within two feet of a window. Those that prefer lower light can be grown near a north-facing window or up to six feet back or off to the side of an east- or west-facing window.
Keep toxic plants out of the reach of curious cats. This can be challenging if your cat is skilled at jumping and climbing. There are so many beautiful houseplants, it may be safer to simply avoid those that are toxic.
Make your houseplants less appealing to your cat with the smell of citrus. Spray a mixture of lemon, lime, or orange juice diluted with some water on the leaves of your plant. Or purchase one of the commercial mixes. If you don’t want to spray your plants, place citrus peels in the pot.
Give your cat a pot of grass to nibble on and enjoy instead of your houseplants. Most cat grass kits contain wheatgrass, oat grass, ryegrass, or a mixture of these. A pot of cat grass can help entertain your cat, provide fiber and some micronutrients, and aid in digestion.
There are several theories as to cats’ attraction to greenery. One suggests plants were used to help them regurgitate undigested parts of their prey. Many cat owners find it also works for hairballs. Another theory suggests that greens provide vitamins and minerals, and aid in digestion.
Busy and new gardeners can successfully grow a pot of cat grass. Look for an easy-care growing kit like True Leaf Market’s Organic Self-Watering Cat Grass Kit (trueleafmarket.com). You’ll only need to fill the water reservoir twice a week and the container helps eliminate messes and spills that often happen with traditional pots.
Prevent curious cats from knocking over any of your plant containers with the help of mounting putty. A couple of pieces on the bottom of the pot will help reduce the risk of toppling.
Prevent cats from using indoor plants as litter boxes. Cover the soil surface with coarse mulch, like cork or large nugget mulch. If this is not an option, spray the soil surface with the citrus and water mix to help discourage digging.
Regular play can entertain your cat, help reduce stress, and even reduce plant nibbling. This is also good for your well-being and the beauty of your indoor plants.
Implement these strategies and you’ll be able to help your cats and plants coexist in your home.
Me
linda Myers is the author of more than 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening and Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2ndEdition. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” instant video and DVD series and Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by True Leaf Market for her expertise to write this article. Her website is www.MelindaMyers.com.
Affordable Housing community meeting
Submitted by Alameda County Board of Supervisors
Join Supervisors David Haubert and Elisa Márquez on Monday, January 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Fremont Library to learn and share your thoughts about a possible $10 to $20 billion Bay Area-wide affordable housing bond sponsored by the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) for the November 2024 ballot.
If approved by the voters, the regional bond will provide billions of dollars for the construction of an estimated 45,000 affordable homes, serving over 500,000 residents over the coming decades. This measure will also raise billions for the preservation of existing affordable housing and ensure protection for at-risk tenants. General obligation bonds are funded through property taxes, so a $10 billion bond would place a tax of $10.26 on $100,000 in assessed value—or about $100 per year for a million-dollar home.
The Alameda County Board of Supervisors District offices are partnering with the County Housing and Community Development Department on public information and input sessions.
Please reserve your space at tinyurl.com/register-for-in-person (in person) or tinyurl.com/register-for-online (online).Translation service options are available in the registration.
For ADA accommodations, please contact our offices:
District 1 at di*******@ac***.org or (510) 272-6691
District 2 at di*******@ac***.org or (510) 272-6692
Affordable Housing community meeting
Monday, Jan 8
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
tinyurl.com/register-for-in-person
tinyurl.com/register-for-online
Fremont City Council
December 12, 2023
7:00 p.m.
Consent Calendar
- Authorize an amendment with the County of Alameda, for the city to provide Access Point and Housing Resource Center Services
- Authorize a purchase order with DocuSign, Inc., for the Annual Electronic Signatures Solution Renewal
- Authorize a five-year license agreement with two five-year renewal options with Friends of Heirloom Flowers Garden Club for use of Shinn Historical Park and Arboretum
- Accept $250,000 in Enhancing Vision 2026 funds recommended by the offices of supervisors Haubert and Marquez and enter into an agreement with Alameda County to provide the SparkPoint Fremont program.
Mayor Lily Mei Aye
Vice Mayor Teresa Cox Aye
Raj Salwan Aye
Yang Shao Absent
Teresa Keng Aye
Jenny Kassan Aye
Desrie Campbell Aye
The Passing of Former Mayor Gus Morrison
By Jack Alcorn
Photo courtesy of the Morrison Family
Fremont is mourning the loss of former mayor Gus Morrison. Morrison served as Fremont’s Mayor from 1985 to 1989; 1994 to 2004; and again in 2012.
Mayor Morrison was a champion for the Fremont community and led the effort to limit development on the city’s hillside. He lobbied Congress to expand 30,000 acres of Baylands which would become the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
As mayor, Morrison established Ardenwood Historic Farm Park and the senior center at Central Park. He introduced curbside recycling and local household hazardous waste drop-off.
During his time leading Fremont’s City Council, the city built the Fremont Main Library, Tri-City Animal Shelter, Redwood Lodge disabled housing project, and the award-winning Sunrise Village homeless shelter, which was the first shelter in the nation built to accommodate families.
Mayor Morrison was particularly proud that in 1997 Fremont won the National Civic League’s All America City Award, and that in the early 2000’s Fremont was named as the best city of its size in the country to raise children.
Morrison served the Fremont community in many ways for more than 27 years.
Gus Morrison represented Fremont in a variety of regional roles including 12 years on the Bay Conservation and Development Commission; almost 20 years on the Alameda County Waste Management Authority; Alameda County Congestion Management Agency; Alameda County Transportation Improvement Authority, and Alameda County Mayors Conference (president three times). He was a founding member of Tri-City Ecology, the Committee to Preserve the Hills, and the Citizen’s Committee to Complete the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
He was one of the first men to join the League of Women Voters, and belonged to the National Organization for Women. He was also elected by the Mayors of America to be a member of the U.S. Conference of Mayors Advisory Board.
Morrison grew up in Tonawanda, New York. He was the first of four children born to John Morrison, a seaman on the Great Lakes ore boats, and Mary (Norton) Morrison, a housekeeper, both immigrants from Scotland. He was raised in public housing on a lot that abutted a chemical plant, and looked after his younger siblings from an early age. At 17 he walked into a recruitment center and enlisted in the Navy, where he was trained as an electronic technician during the Korean War.
Morrison once said, “Everything I am today can be traced directly to that day in 1953 when I joined the Navy at 17 years of age. Whenever someone says, ‘Thank you for your service,’ I respond with, ‘Thank you for letting me serve.’”
His Navy service ultimately brought him to San Francisco, where he met his wife Joy. Gus and Joy had three children and were married for 53 years, until her death in September 2012. Gus worked at Lockheed for 36 years, starting in 1958 as an Instrument Technician. He worked his way up to Manager of the Failure Analysis and Corrective Action Engineering Department. While working at Lockheed he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in History from San Jose State University. His pursuit of an Master’s Degree in History was halted by his public service career.
Gus’s commitment to public service didn’t end when he left office. He brought his years of experience to bear helping new city councils learn to work together, served occasionally as a political consultant, and stayed in close touch with the many friends he made during his time in local government. He never stopped expressing his desire to make a difference in his community.
Gus died at home with loved ones close by on December 14, 2023. He is survived by his children, Frank Morrison, Gloria Ritchie, and Heather Meyer; his grandchildren, Meghan Ritchie, Garrett Ritchie, and Ainsley Meyer; and his great-grandson, Stanley Ritchie.
Mayor Morrison’s public service will be remembered for years to come.
Morrison said that he hoped his legacy would be, “A project kid who helped build a great American city.”
Sources: City of Fremont and the Morrison Family
Newark Police Log
Submitted By Newark PD
Tuesday, December 12
- 11:33 a.m.: Officer C. Torres investigated a report of a residential burglary that occurred in the 39900 block of Cedar Boulevard. The suspects entered the residence by using keys from a lockbox. The loss was a television.
- 2:24 p.m.: Officer McCuin investigated a vandalism to a vacant business in the 5600 block of Jarvis Avenue. The armed security guard reported someone had broken a window to the building and requested NPD search the building. It appeared that damage was caused during an attempt to steal copper from the business.
- 4:48 p.m.: Officer C. Torres investigated a carjacking. The suspect went to a car dealership in a neighboring city and took a vehicle on a test drive. During the test drive, the suspect stopped in the area of Milani Avenue and ordered the car salesman out of the vehicle while brandishing a knife. The suspect fled in the vehicle and the victim was not injured. The stolen vehicle was later located by a neighboring agency and towed as evidence. The case was forwarded to the Detectives Division.
Wednesday, December 13
- 3:24 p.m.: Officer Williams was dispatched to a restaurant for a report of a male subject seen looking over the bathroom stall in the women’s restroom. Officer Williams saw the subject in the area. Upon attempting to contact the subject, he immediately fled. Officer Williams located and identified him as a 29-year-old unsheltered male. Officer Williams is working with the victim and is actively investigating the incident.
Thursday, December 14
- 9:00 a.m.: Officer Orozco investigated a domestic violence incident that occurred on Bennington Drive. A 61-year-old female out of Newark was arrested and booked into Santa Rita Jail.
- 7:43 p.m.: Officers responded to an armed robbery involving a handgun that occurred at a business on Cedar Boulevard. The clerk provided a suspect description and Officer Losier located the suspect after a foot pursuit. The 18-year-old male out of Hayward was taken into custody and booked at Santa Rita Jail. Officers recovered the loss from the robbery and the suspect provided a full confession.
Friday, December 15
- 5:25 p.m.: Officer Orozco investigated the burglary of a United States Postal Services mail truck while parked in the 35000 block of Buckingham Drive.
Saturday, December 16
- 2:46 a.m.: Officers responded to Cedar Boulevard for a report of a domestic violence incident. Officer Herrera arrested a 42-year-old male out of Newark for domestic violence. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
- 8:40 p.m.: Officers responded to Newark Boulevard and Central Avenue for a report of an intoxicated subject stumbling in the street. Officer Swadener located a 27-year-old male out of Newark and arrested him for being drunk in public. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Senator Aisha Wahab – Mobile Office Hours
Submitted By Alameda County Library
California District 10 State Senator Aisha Wahab’s staff will be holding mobile office hours at the Union City Library on the first Thursday of every month from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
The Senator’s offic
e provides the following services:
- DMV/Auto Insurance Problems
- Consumer Complaints
- Medical Payments & Eligibility
- Unemployment Insurance Questions
Mobile office hours allow you to receive personalized assistance on various issues that impact our community.
Whether you need help navigating government services, have concerns that require attention and advocacy, or simply want to express your opinions, this event is for you.
No registration required. All library programs are free! To learn more about this and other library programs, visit https://aclibrary.bibliocommons.com/events
The Office of Senator Wahab is committed to serving the needs of the community. We look forward to seeing you there!
Senator Wahab Mobile Office Hours
First Thursday of every month
4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
Nissa Nack at nn***@ac*******.org
(510) 745-1464
ABC Reminds Licensees to Help Prevent DUIs and Check Identifications Carefully
Submitted by California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control
The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) reminds ABC licensees to prevent DUIs and check identifications closely to prevent underage drinking during the 2023 New Year’s holiday weekend. ABC also encourages the public to have a plan in place for a sober driver to get everyone home safely.
ABC is partnering with the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to help keep communities safe through New Year’s Day. Remember to designate a sober driver, use public transportation, or a ride-hailing service.
“We want everyone to get home safe this holiday season,” said ABC Director Joseph McCullough. “Remember to make a plan before you celebrate. ABC licensees can also help keep communities safe by carefully checking identifications and ensuring customers are not overserved.”
The department has several education and prevention programs available to ABC licensees that promote responsible service of alcoholic beverages. ABC Agents and local law enforcement officers will be out this holiday season to monitor compliance and increase public safety.
Visit ABC’s website to see how the department protects communities through education, prevention and enforcement programs designed to increase compliance with California’s alcoholic beverage laws.
ABC is a department of the Business, Consumer Services, and Housing Agency.
Alcoholic Beverage Control
Alameda County Fire Log
Submitted By ACFD
Monday, December 25
- At 5:43 a.m. Alameda County Fire Department (ACFD) responded to a large apartment fire in the 14000 block of E.14th Street in San Leandro. Multiple 911 callers stated smoke and fire were coming from a first-floor apartment. Upon arrival, ACFD found heavy smoke and fire showing from a center hallway apartment. Firefighters initiated a mobile attack, working to keep the fire from spreading through the apartment complex. There were no reported injuries to the residents or firefighters. Three people have been displaced.
The Red Cross was notified to assist with temporary housing and other assistance. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Wednesday, December 27
- At 8:27 a.m. ACFD was called to Mulford Point Drive at San Leandro Marina for a structure fire at the former Harbor Master’s office. A huge plume of smoke could be seen for miles. Unfortunately, the unoccupied building was destroyed by fire.
The U.S. Coast Guard, along with the Department of Fish and Wildlife, were notified. ACFD’s Crew 8 members placed booms in the water to contain debris. No one was injured, and the cause is under investigation.
BART Police Log
Submitted By BART PD
Thursday, December 21
- At 6:26 a.m. a man identified by police as Antonio Aguilar, 39, from Hayward was contacted in the free area of Hayward station. Aguilar was arrested and booked into Alameda County Jail for possession of a controlled substance.
- At 9:20 a.m. a man identified by police as Mikel Brumfield, 34, from Oakland was taken into custody at Castro Valley station. Brumfield was booked into Alameda County Jail for carrying a concealed dirk or dagger; and for possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.
- At 7:49 p.m. a man identified by police as Howard Pasley, 59, from San Leandro fare evaded to exit San Leandro station. Pasley was not in possession of a clipper card. Pasley was arrested for violating a court order and possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. Pasley was transported to Santa Rita Jail for booking.
- At 8:23 p.m. a man identified by police as Paulo Damasco, 43, from Foster City was reported to have a firearm at Bay Fair station. Damasco was arrested for receiving stolen property; carrying a concealed weapon; and possession of a firearm while under the influence of a controlled substance. Damasco was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Friday, December 22
- At 9:22 p.m. officers contacted Eduardo Ibanez-Carrera, 33, from San Francisco for fare evading to exit Bay Fair station. Ibanez-Carrera was arrested for a warrant and booked into Santa Rita Jail.
- At 9:52 p.m. a woman identified by police as Alysia Romero, 23, from Martinez was detained for fare evading out of Bay Fair station. Romero was arrested for two outstanding warrants and for providing false identification. Romero was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility.
Saturday, December 23
- At 5:47 p.m. a man identified by police as Juan Velazquez, 49, from Sacramento fare evaded to exit Bay Fair station. Velazquez was arrested for outstanding warrants and booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Tuesday, December 26
- At 12:02 p.m. a man identified by police as Kelvin Rodriguezbello, 24, from Hayward was located during a train patrol check at Bay Fair station. He was arrested for possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphenalia. Rodriguezbello also had an active arrest warrant.
Wednesday, December 27
- At 9:30 a.m. man identified by police as Brett Badiali, 26, from Hayward was detained for fare evasion at Hayward station. Badiali was arrested for narcotics and two active warrants. Badiali was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
CHP Log
Submitted By California Highway Patrol Hayward Area Office
Wednesday, December 20
- While patrolling their beat in San Leandro, Officer T. Rodriguez and his Field Training Officer, Officer T. Brown stopped to assist a disabled motorist who ran out of gas. While checking on the occupants of the disabled vehicle, Officer T. Rodriguez observed a punched ignition and the lack of license plates. Officer Brown conducted a record check which revealed that the car was stolen. The driver was taken into custody for vehicle theft and a probation violation. The owner of the vehicle was called and he was grateful that his car was recovered.
Saturday, December 23
- While returning from a pursuit call in San Jose, the crew of H-32 monitored a broadcast from Alameda County Sheriffs of a pursuit traveling westbound on I-580, west of Foothill Road. Hayward CHP units and H-32 were in position and located the suspect vehicle traveling westbound on I-580, west of 164th Avenue. H-32 began calling the pursuit allowing ground units to follow at a safe distance.
The suspect eventually foot bailed from the vehicle and fled into a backyard where he attempted to hide in a garbage can. The crew of H-32 directed CHP units and Oakland Police units to the suspect’s location and he was subsequently taken into custody.
Official Statement from Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price on Deadly Shooting of Oakland Police Officer
Submitted by California District Attorney’s Office
Today [December 29, 2023] an Oakland Police Officer lost his life in a deadly shooting. This is a tremendous tragedy for our entire community and extremely traumatizing for our law enforcement partners across the County. The deadly violence that we have experienced in Oakland in recent years has no place in Alameda County. The murder of this young officer is inexcusable.
I spoke to Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao this morning and offered my condolences. I also assured Mayor Thao that the Alameda County District Attorney’s office is standing by to assist in any way we can and to support the Town in this critical time.
I also called the President of the Oakland Police Officers’ Association, Barry Donelan, to offer condolences to the officer’s family and colleagues from myself and on behalf of the Alameda County District Attorney’s office. While the investigation is ongoing, I assured Mr. Donelan that my office stands ready to prosecute whoever is responsible and hold them accountable for killing this officer.
Alameda County District Attorney
Pamela Price
Fremont Police Log
Submitted By HPD
Wednesday, December 13
- A victim reported being robbed in his garage by four subjects with handguns on Griffith Ave. The victim was parked next to the subject’s vehicle when he witnessed the subject shoplifting from a department store. The subjects followed him home and took his belongings at gunpoint. This case remains under investigation.
- Officers responded to a report that a subject had intentionally rammed into a victim’s vehicle after a breakup that had escalated into domestic violence. The victim had driven away, but the subject chased after her in his vehicle and rammed her vehicle near Grimmer Blvd and Auto Mall Pkwy. The victim pulled into a gas station, and the subject rammed her car again, then confronted her with a knife, slashed one of her tires, and drove away. This case remains under investigation.
Thursday, December 14
- Officers responded to a hotel on Cushing Pkwy to assist Fremont Fire Department with a suspected overdose. When officers arrived, FFD had pronounced the subject deceased. During the unattended death investigation, officers found contraband indicating narcotics. Alameda County Sheriff’s Office responded for the unattended death investigation.
- Officers located a stolen vehicle at a residence on Sterne Pl. Detectives observed a subject leaving the scene in another vehicle and attempted to stop him. The subject fled but turned down a dead end. He fled on foot but was eventually captured. Officers located a loaded firearm inside his vehicle and arrested the subject.
Friday, December 15
- A victim found her home on Redstone Ter ransacked. Officers saw two subjects running from a vehicle parked near the residence. The officers initiated a short foot pursuit and saw the subjects enter a nearby condo complex. Officers established a perimeter and located one juvenile subject hiding under a vehicle. The other subject was not located. Investigation revealed that the subjects were trying to steal a vehicle near where the burglary occurred. The burglary had been committed several hours earlier by unknown subjects. This case remains under investigation.
- A victim was home alone when she heard two subjects break into her apartment on Sundale Dr. The victim remained quiet in her bedroom as the subjects ransacked the residence. The subjects left after hearing the victim in her room. Cash, as well as several credit cards and jewelry items, were missing. This case remains under investigation.
Sunday, December 17
- Fremont Fire Department responded to a fire at a construction site near Lopes Rd. and Accelerator Ave. The fire had burned part of a multi-story building that was nearly complete. FFD believed the fire was suspicious and requested FPD to respond. Officers located a gas can near where the fire began. This case remains un
der investigation. - Officers responded to a report regarding a subject who had intentionally hit a victim with her vehicle at an apartment complex on Fremont Blvd. The two had just come back from a birthday celebration and had been involved in an argument on their way to drop the victim off. When the victim exited the vehicle and paused in front of it, the subject accelerated the vehicle and struck the victim with it. The victim was transported to a hospital for medical treatment.
- A delivery driver located a toddler wandering the street on Mission View Dr. The juvenile appeared lost and was unsure of his home address. After two hours of searching, officers identified his residence and returned the child safely to his family.
Hayward Police Log
Submitted By HPD
Tuesday, December 26
- Officers responded to a south Hayward neighborhood after receiving reports of mail thefts. Officers saw a vehicle in the area that matched the description of the car involved in the theft. Officers pulled the car over to investigate and learned the driver was unlicensed. Prior to the car being towed, an inventory search was conducted, and evidence of the previously reported mail theft was found along with a loaded handgun. The driver was placed under arrest.
Milpitas Police Log
Submitted By MPD
Friday, December 22
- Around 9:20 a.m. a residential construction worker reported being robbed of his tools at gunpoint. Officers arrived within three minutes and obtained the license plate of the suspect’s vehicle, a stolen vehicle from San Jose. Simultaneously, MPD received an Automated License Plate Reader (ALRP) alert of the suspect vehicle’s location. Within minutes, officers located the suspect vehicle, and a vehicle pursuit ensued into the City of Fremont.
With the assistance of the Fremont Police Department, the suspect, a 30-year-old San Jose resident was arrested and the contractor’s tools were returned. Once again, our ALPR technology helped our officers quickly and safely apprehend a dangerous suspect.
Newark Police Investigate Vandalism at Temple
Submitted By Newark Police Department
On Friday, December 22, 2023, at approximately 8:35 a.m. Newark Police received a report of graffiti at the Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Hindu Temple located at 36665 Cedar Boulevard. Officers responded and met with temple leaders who described the vandalism as meant to intimidate them. Based on the content of the graffiti it is believed that the defacement was a targeted act, and the vandalism is being investigated as a possible hate crime.
Any acts or threats of violence, property damage, harassment, intimidation, or other crimes motivated by hate or bias are considered very serious and given very high priority. Officers are investigating, collecting evidence, and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses in order to establish the chain of events and bring those responsible to justice.
We would like to thank our community members for their continued support and the trust they place in our organization as we investigate this crime. We stand united with our community and are urging community members with any information regarding this incident to come forward and speak with investigators.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation should contact Newark Police Investigations Unit Detective Sergeant Yama Homayoun at (510) 578-4920 or via email at Ya***********@ne****.org.
Information can also be left anonymously on the “Anonymous Tip” hotline at (510) 578-4965.
Blackhawks Hal Nunn Alumni Game
Submitted by SCVHA Blackhawks
What an amazing night! Thanks to our alumni, our Blackhawks shoot-out players, our bake sale and silent auction donors, the event volunteers and everyone who came out to be a part of this community event. Proceeds of the silent auction will go toward Child Advocates of Silicon Valley and bake sale proceeds will support the Blackhawk Goalie Club.
For more information on the team visit, www.blackhawks.org.
Inaugural Futsal Playdate
Submitted by Deputy Sheriff’s Activities League
Sheriffs FC welcomes you and your teams to Futsal games in a 1-day Playdate at the Sunset Futsal Courts in Hayward.
Every effort will be made to accommodate scheduling requests and ensure that teams play opponents with similar playing level. The games will be held in a 5 v 5 format with four games guarantee.
While scores will be posted, the emphasis should remain on learning and advancing both the player and the team with the game of Futsal (with some players/teams experiencing Futsal for the first time).
Parents and coaches are encouraged to be supportive of their players, respectful to their opponents and game officials, and show the highest level of sportsmanship throughout the day. The development of the individual player and team should always come first and foremost in the eyes of the coaches and parents.
January 13, 2024 – U11/U10 2013/2014
January 14, 2024 – U09 2015
January 15, 2024 – U8 2016
Sheriff’s FC Futsal One-Day Playdate
Saturday, Jan 13 – Monday, Jan 15
9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunset Futsal Courts
300 Laurel Ave., Hayward
Team registrations: $250
Mission Valley Cross Country Qualifiers
Submitted by Lee Webb
Mission Valley Cross Country, a non-profit based in Union City, had a historical day this past November in Madera. The team attended a meet that was a qualifier for Nationals. Among their achievements, 42 athletes qualified, 5 full teams qualified,18 medals were raked up by the team.
Mission Valley Track and Field/Cross Country team has also begun their Holiday Giving tradition. The team collects donations to give to the less fortunate in the area including those with disabilities and veterans. The team accepts the following:
Toys
Food
Gift cards
Clothes
Blankets
For more information visit, www.missionvalleytrackandfield.com.
Newark Optimist Club Basketball Classic
By April Ramos
Photos courtesy of Todd Tokubo
From Thursday, December 28 to Saturday, December 30, the 36th Annual Newark Optimist Club Girls Holiday Basketball Classic was held at Newark Memorial High School. Head Coach of Newark Memorial’s Girls’ Varsity team, Darryl Reina explains, “The Newark Optimist Club has been the name and financial sponsor for the past 13 years. Their support of the tournament and youth of the Newark community has been instrumental, and certainly appreciated.”
Every year, eight Varsity and Junior Varsity (JV) teams come to participate in the Optimist Club tournament. Local teams this year included American (Fremont), Irvington (Fremont), Mt. Eden (Hayward), San Leandro, and Newark Memorial High Schools. Other teams traveled from San Jose and San Luis Obispo area including Valley Christian and Arroyo Grande High School.
Teams, players, and volunteers were busy during the three day tournament. From 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. games were being played on the court and volunteers ran the concession stand and ticketing at the door which helped the event run smoothly. Coach Reina notes, “The cooperation of our players and their families to make themselves available over the holidays each season to play in and work the event has been greatly appreciated.”
The first half of the days were scheduled for JV games, while Varsity teams took over the court in the evening.
Junior Varsity winning teams that progressed after the first round of games included Valley Christian (San Jose), Irvington, San Leandro, and Newark Memorial. Three JV teams of the Tri-City area were taking control of the winning bracket. The JV championship game was played between Valley Christian and San Leandro. San Leandro won with a comfortable 20-point game of 34-14.
Varsity teams that won their first round of games were Aragon, Lynbrook, Arroyo Grande, and Foothill. In the quarterfinals, Lynbrook had a significant win against Aragon with a final score of 60-39, while Arroyo Grande finished 11-points ahead against Foothill, 48-37.
Foothill High School took third place beating Aragon 62-29. Lynbrook and Arroyo Grande secured their slots in the championship game. Lynbrook High School (San Jose) started with dominance and firmly held the lead for the entirety of the game with at least a two possession lead. At half time Lynbrook was in a secure spot at 24-18. Although Arroyo Grande came out of half time with more possession on the ball, Lynbrook remained ahead taking advantage of their free throw opportunities. At the final buzzer Lynbrook took the championship title at 52-49.
After another successful year Coach Reina recognizes the effort to keep the tournament running, “The longevity [of the tournament] is primarily due to the vision and dedication of former and current coaches, and through the support of our Athletic Directors over the years.”
Registration Open for Youth Volleyball Spring 2024 Leagues
Submitted by Veronica Sanchez
The United States Youth Volleyball League (USYVL) is pleased to announce that registration is open for our 2024 Spring Leagues. These signature programs provide a fun, safe, and supervised environment for boys and girls to learn and play volleyball.
The Fremont USYVL runs from April 10 – June 1, 2024 on Wednesdays 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. and Saturdays 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. at Central Park in Fremont.
Our eight-week Fall Leagues provide instruction to boys and girls ages 7 to 15 that is designed to teach basic volleyball skills in a positive environment. The leagues operate twice a week beginning the second week of September and ending the first week of November. Practices and games operate in a coed format and offer participants the opportunity to develop self-esteem and confidence.
Programs fill quickly, so register early to reserve a spot for your child. The registration fee includes a uniform t-shirt and participation medal. Visit our online registration page to locate a program in your area.
For information on registration, programs, locations, or schedules visit www.usyvl.org or contact us at 1-888-988-7985 orin**@us***.org or ve******@us***.org.
Mickey Mouse will soon belong to you and me – with some caveats
By Andrew Dalton, Associated Press Entertainment Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) — M-I-C-K-E-Y will soon belong to you and me.
With several asterisks, qualification and caveats, Mickey Mouse in his earliest form will be the leader of the band of characters, films and books that will become public domain as the year turns to 2024.
In a moment many close observers thought might never come, at least one version of the quintessential piece of intellectual property and perhaps the most iconic character in American pop culture will be free from Disney`s copyright as his first screen release, the 1928 short “Steamboat Willie,” featuring both Mickey and Minnie Mouse, becomes available for public use.
“This is it. This is Mickey Mouse. This is exciting because it’s kind of symbolic,” said Jennifer Jenkins, a professor of law and director of Duke’s Center for the Study of Public Domain, who writes an annual Jan. 1 column for ‘Public Domain Day.’ “I kind of feel like the pipe on the steamboat, like expelling smoke. It’s so exciting.”
U.S. law allows a copyright to be held for 95 years after Congress expanded it several times during Mickey`s life.
“It’s sometimes derisively referred to as the Mickey Mouse Protection Act,” Jenkins said. “That’s oversimplified because
it wasn’t just Disney that was pushing for term extension. It was a whole group of copyright holders whose works were set to go into the public domain soon, who benefited greatly from the 20 years of extra protection.”
“Ever since Mickey Mouse’s first appearance in the 1928 short film Steamboat Willie, people have associated the character with Disney’s stories, experiences, and authentic products,” a Disney spokesperson said in a statement to The Associated Press. “That will not change when the copyright in the Steamboat Willie film expires.”
Current artists and creators will be able to make use of Mickey, but with major limits. It is only the more mischievous, rat-like, non-speaking boat captain in “Steamboat Willie” that has become public.
“More modern versions of Mickey will remain unaffected by the expiration of the Steamboat Willie copyright, and Mickey will continue to play a leading role as a global ambassador for the Walt Disney Company in our storytelling, theme park attractions, and merchandise,” Disney’s statement said.
Not every feature or personality trait a character displays is necessarily copyrightable, however, and courts could be busy in the coming years determining what’s inside and outside Disney’s ownership.
“We will, of course, continue to protect our rights in the more modern versions of Mickey Mouse and other works that remain subject to copyright,” the company said.
Disney still solidly and separately holds a trademark on Mickey as a corporate mascot and brand identifier, and the law forbids using the character deceptively to fool consumers into thinking a product is from the original creator. Anyone starting a film company or a theme park will not be free to make mouse ears their logo.
Disney’s statement said it “will work to safeguard against consumer confusion caused by unauthorized uses of Mickey and our other iconic characters.”
“Steamboat Willie,” directed by Walt Disney and his partner Ub Iwerks and among the first cartoons to have sound synced with its visuals, was actually the third cartoon featuring Mickey and Minnie the men made, but the first to be released. It features a more menacing Mickey captaining a boat and making musical instruments out of other animals.
Another famous animal sidekick, Tigger, will join his friend Winnie the Pooh in the public domain as the book in which the bouncing tiger first appeared, “The House at Pooh Corner,” turns 96. Pooh, probably the most celebrated prior character to become public property, took on that status two years ago when A.A. Milne’s original “Winnie the Pooh” entered the public domain, resulting in some truly novel uses, including this year’s horror film “Winnie The Pooh: Blood and Honey.”
Young Mickey could get the same treatment.
“Now, the audience is going to set the terms,” said Cory Doctorow, an author and activist who advocates for broader public ownership of works.
Jan. 1, 2024, has long been circled on the calendars of public domain watchers, but some say it serves to show how overlong it takes for U.S. works to go public, and many properties with less pedigree than Winnie or Minnie can disappear or be forgotten with their copyrights murky.
“The fact that there are works that are still recognizable and enduring after 95 years is is frankly remarkable,” Doctorow said. “And it makes you think about the stuff that we must have lost, that would still have currency.”
Other properties entering the U.S. public domain are Charlie Chaplin’s film “Circus,” Virginia Woolf’s novel “Orlando” and Bertolt Brecht’s musical play “The Threepenny Opera.”
The books of George Orwell for example, including “Animal Farm” and “1984,” both published in the 1940s, are now public domain in his native Great Britain.
“Those works aren’t going to fall into the public domain in the United States for 25 years,” Heald said. “It would be literally costless for Congress to pass a law saying, ‘we now adopt the rule of the shorter term,’ which would throw a butt ton of works into the public domain over here.”
Chinese automaker BYD plans a new EV plant in Hungary as part of its rapid global expansion
By Elaine Kurtenbach, Associated Press Business Writer
BANGKOK (AP) — Chinese automaker BYD said Friday December 22 that it plans to build a new electric vehicle plant in Hungary, its first car factory in Europe, as part of its rapid global expansion.
Hungary will be the center for its European operations, BYD said in a notice on its Weibo social media account.
BYD, based in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen, said it plans to create thousands of jobs in creating a “local green ecosystem” for manufacturing its electric vehicles. The factory will have an advanced production line and will be built in phases, it said without giving details on the amount of money to be invested.
BYD is among EV manufacturers making fast inroads into Europe, to the extent that European regulators have begun a probe into Chinese government support for the industry. The company, whose name stands for “Build Your Dreams,” began direct EV sales in Hungary in October.
The company says it plans to launch three new models in Europe within the coming year in addition to the five models it is already selling that include sedans, hatchbacks and SUVs. BYD has 230 outlets in 19 European countries, it says.
The factory is to be based in Szeged in southern Hungary, near the border with Serbia and Romania. The city, Hungary`s third-largest, is a center for education and technology. BYD also has a bus manufacturing facility in Hungary.
BYD has been at the forefront of a wave of Chinese electric car exporters that are leveraging their fast-developing technology and low prices to compete with Western and Japanese brands in their home markets. That compares with 464,654 Teslas sold in China in the same period, up nearly 38% for a 12% market share, it said.
San Francisco jury finds homeless man not guilty in beating of businessman left with brain injury
From Associated Press
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — A San Francisco jury on Friday December 22 found a homeless man not guilty after being accused of using a metal pipe to beat a businessman who suf
fered a broken jaw, fractured skull and traumatic brain injury in an attack caught on video that fueled debate about crime and homelessness in the city.
Garret Doty, 25, was charged with three assault and battery charges for the April 5 beating of Don Carmignani. Doty pleaded not guilty.
Prosecutors said Doty beat Carmignani in an act of revenge. But Doty’s defense attorneys said he was acting in self-defense after Carmignani sprayed him with bear spray.
The attack on Carmignani, a businessman who served briefly on a Fire Department commission, happened two days after the stabbing death of Cash App founder Bob Lee.
Lee’s killing unleashed a wave of criticism against city officials by prominent tech leaders. Among the critics was tech billionaire Elon Musk, who took to Twitter to mourn Lee’s death and blame San Francisco for what he called the city’s lax attitude toward crime. A tech consultant is awaiting trial in Lee’s killing.
The attack on Carmignani fueled a narrative of a city in chaos. But Doty’s defense attorney argued Doty acted in self-defense and released surveillance video showing Carmignani spraying Doty before he began chasing him while wielding a metal pipe.
Deputy Public Defender Kleigh Hathaway said Carmignani had repeatedly doused unhoused people, including Doty, with bear spray.
“Self-defense can be fierce, it can be effective and it can be disabling,” Hathaway said. “And why wouldn’t it be? You’re fighting for your life.”
In closing arguments Tuesday December 19, Assistant District Attorney Kourtney Bell conceded that Carmignani had a history of aggression, saying that he may have used bear spray on unhoused people in the Marina District on at least one occasion, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.
A confrontation between Carmignani and Doty started after Doty and two others set up tents outside the home of Carmignani’s parents, who live next door to him in the upscale Marina District. Carmignani said in an interview with KPIX-TV that he had asked Doty to move away because they were blocking his parent`s entryway.
He said he called 911 but no one responded, so he went out to talk to the homeless people and that the only thing he had on him was pepper spray.
“I didn’t go out there to fight anyone. I’m trying to get them down the road, go to the park,” Carmignani told the television station.
Indiana man is rescued after six days surviving on rainwater
Associated Press
Dec 27, 2023
PORTAGE, Ind. (AP) __ A 27-year-old man survived for six days on only rainwater while pinned tightly inside his crashed pickup truck beneath a highway bridge in northwest Indiana, police said.
His ordeal ended when two men scouting for fishing spots Tuesday afternoon noticed the badly damaged vehicle, its white airbag deployed, and reached inside.
“They touched the body, and the person turned their head and started talking to them. So, that got a little rise out of them,” Sgt. Glen Fifield of the Indiana State Police told local news outlets.
The truck went off Interstate 94 ahead of a bridge over Salt Creek, missing the guardrail and likely rolling several times before landing on the other side of the creek, hidden out of sight from the road above, Fifield said at a news conference.
Matthew R. Reum, of Mishawaka, Indiana, was freed from the wreckage Tuesday evening by first responders working under bright floodlights, then airlifted to a hospital in South Bend with life-threatening injuries, Fifield said.
“He made it through the night. He is alive,” Fifield told The Associated Press. He said Reum remained in critical condition Wednesday morning.
South Bend Memorial Hospital released a statement on Reum’s behalf thanking people for their support and well wishes, “including the good Samaritans who found him, the first responders and his caregivers.”
“No matter how tough things get, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, sometimes in the least expected way,” Reum said in the statement.
Mario Garcia, one of the fishermen who found the wreck, said Reum was awake and “very happy to see us,” after being exposed to the elements since Dec. 20.
“It almost killed me there, because it was so shocking” to find him alive, Garcia said during a Tuesday news conference in the nearby city of Portage, The Times of Northwest Indiana reported.
Garcia, of Hobart, said Reum told them he had screamed and yelled for help but only heard the “quiet sound of water.”
Reum told them his cell phone had fallen out of reach and his body was trapped, preventing him from calling for aid.
Fifield said Reum hadn’t been reported missing. He said Reum drank rainwater to survive his ordeal.
“Had it not been for the two individuals that were walking the creek this afternoon, this incident more than likely would have had a different outcome,” Fifield said in a statement. Reum’s “will to survive this crash was nothing short of extraordinary.”
Continuing Events:
Tuesdays
East Bay Games Meet
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
German/Euro style board games and card games.
Swiss Park
5911 Mowry Ave., Newark
(510) 936-2523
meetup.com/east-bay-games
Tuesdays, January 2 – April 30
Bilingual Family Storytime / 中英雙語故事時間
6:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Features movement, singing, and action!
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
For babies, preschoolers, and toddlers.
Tuesdays, September 19 – May 28
It’s Storytime
1:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Stories, finger plays, nursery rhymes, musical instruments and more.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
aclibrary.org/locations/FRM/
fr**************@ac*******.org
For ages 18 months – 6 yrs.
Tuesdays
Mobile Food Distribution with Tri-City Volunteers
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Fremont Adult and Continuing Education
4700 Calaveras Ave., Fremont
(510) 793-6465
tri-cityvolunteers.org/food
Bring your own bag.
Frist and third Tuesdays of the month
Tuesdays, June 13 – January 9
Monthly Covid and Flu Vaccine Clinic
3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Get free Covid Booster
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 268-210
cutt.ly/Cwdxmlma
Appointments suggested.
First Tuesday of the month
Tuesdays, January 9 – March 26
Music and Storytime
11:30 am – 12:00 pm
Join us for stories, music, and movement at the library.
Cherryland Community Center
278 Hampton Road, Hayward
(510) 626-8522
aclibrary.org/locations/CHY/
For babies, toddlers, preschoolers.
Wednesday
Genealogy Study Group
10:30 am – 12:30 pm
Family history research and more.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
First and third Wednesday of the month
Wednesdays
Tropics Bingo
7:00 pm
Flash games
Tropics Mobile Home Park
33000 Almaden Blvd., Union City
(510) 471-8550
the-tropics.net/activites
Wednesdays
Ping Pong
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Activities for people with Parkinson
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
issuu.com/hsdept
Wednesdays
Talkin’ Dirt R
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Online gathering of gardeners.
Local Ecology and Agriculture Fremont (LEAF) Center
36501 Niles Blvd., Fremont
bit.ly/3UPp51i
First Wednesday of the month
Wednesdays
Free Hot Meals – Eden Greenway
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Food truck to distribute meals and books to the community.
Eden Youth & Family Center
680 W. Tennyson Rd., Hayward
(510) 881-7535
First and third Wednesday of the month
Thursdays, December 28 – January 25
Stay N’ Play!
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Make friends, play, and explore arts and sensory stations.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Ages 12 – 36 months along with caregivers.
Free tickets.
Thursdays, January 4 – March 28
International Folk Dancing R$
11:15 pm – 1:00 pm
Celebrate the cultural roots and traditional life of various countries.
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
In English and Chinese.
Thursdays, January 11 – March 28
Chinese Music Ensemble R
1:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Open to all who are interested in performing traditional Chinese music.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Thursdays, December 21 – May 23
Homework Help Center
3:45 pm – 5:45 pm
Students in grades K – 8 can get help with their homework questions.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Drop-in.
Thursdays, January 4 – December 26
CleanStart Mobile Hygiene Unit Visit
11:30 am – 1:30 pm
At the Main library’s parking lot to provide hygiene services to the unhoused.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Recommend checking for availability.
Thursdays, January 4 – May 2
Senator Aisha Wahab – Mobile Office Hours
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Include: DMV problems, consumer complaints, MediCal and EDD.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
aclibrary.bibliocommons.com/events
First Thursdays of the month
Thursdays – Sundays
Animal Feeding
3:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Feed livestock and learn about their favorite food.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757
ebparks.org/parks/ardenwood#events
Admission fee applies.
Thursday, January 4 – April 4
Paperwork Clinic
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Had a brush with the law and need help organizing your paperwork?
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
First Thursdays of the month
Thursdays and Saturdays
Story Time
10:30 am – 11:00 am
Picture book story time
Banter Bookshop
3768 Capitol Ave. Ste. F., Fremont
(510) 565-1004
bit.ly/3VFpbcz
Thursdays and Tuesdays, November 9 – May 23
Literacy Enrichment Program R
4:00 pm – 5:45 pm
Supporting struggling readers through personalized lesson plans and one-on-one tutoring.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
aclibrary.org/locations/FRM/
fr**************@ac*******.org
Friday, January 5 – June 7
Women Veterans – VA Outreach
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Learn about your VA benefits, programs and resources.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
First Friday of the month
Fridays, December 29 – May 10
Go: The Game R
3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Go is an ancient game of strategy. To learn the game or to play it.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
All ages and levels.
Fridays, December 29 – November 29
Qi Gong Meditation & Exercise Class
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Falun Dafa classes provided by the Classical Arts Foundation.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
Language: English, Mandarin, Vietnamese
Fridays – Sundays, November 24 – January 7
3 Crosses Church Christmas Village & Ice-Skating Rink $
3:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Family activities, ice skating, food trucks and more!
3Cross Church
20600 John Drive, Castro Valley
Skating tickets available online and in-person until capacity is reached.
Online: www.3crosses.church
Fridays and Saturdays
Telescope Viewings
7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Experience the awe and wonder of the universe.
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
chabotspace.org/events
Saturdays – Tuesday, December 2 – January 9
Winter Reading Game
10:00 am
Complete your game board to collect your prize and enter the prize drawing.
Centerville Library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
aclibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6567ec2f1abde5420061cfe4
Check the library’s open hours.
Open for all ages.
Saturdays
Free Beginner Pickleball Lesson
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Free pickleball lesson for beginners, taught by a USPA professional.
Hall Memorial Park
304 La Honda Dr, Milpitas
(408) 586-3210
Drop-in. Weather permitting.
Saturdays
Laugh Track City R$
8:00 pm
Series of improvised games and scenes
Made Up Theatre
4000 Bay St. suite B., Fremont
(510) 573-3633
madeuptheatre.com
Saturdays, January 6 – May 25
Family Storytime
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
The story time features lots of movement, singing, and action.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
For babies, toddlers, preschooler, family events.
Saturdays, January 6 – December 28
Computer Crew: Teen Tech Help
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Meet with a tutor to get assistance with basic tech issues.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Checking the availability.
For adults, seniors.
Saturdays – First, January 6 – December 7
Music Hour at the Library
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Music performed by local musicians of all ages.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Checking availability. For everyone.
First Saturdays of the month
Saturdays
Pacific Bus Museum $
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Open house
Pacific Bus Museum
37974 Shinn St., Fremont
pacbus.org
First and third Saturdays
Saturdays, September 2 – February 17
Book Sale
10:30 am – 3:30 pm
Pop in the bookstore on the first floor for some great deals!
Hayward Public Library
888 C St., Hayward
(510) 293-8685
hayward.librarycalendar.com
First and third Saturdays of the month
Sundays
Weekly Meditation Session R
8:30 am – 9:30 am
Explore the effortless way to ultimate bliss.
India Community Center
525 Los Coches St., Milpitas
(408) 934-1130
samarpanmeditationusa.org
Sundays, January 7 – April 14
English Conversations at the Library R
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Open to learners of any English skill level.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Recommend checking availability.
Sundays – Saturdays
Recreational Swim $
12:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Attractions may vary.
Silliman Activity and Family Aquatic Center
6800 Mowry Ave., Newark
(510) 578-4620
bit.ly/3nxo0is
Mondays, January 8 – March 25
Beginning Zumba Gold R$
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
This is a dance fitness program.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Mondays, December 18 – May 20
Advanced Math + Science Tutoring
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Offering free high school and college-level tutoring in math, physics, and chemistry.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Mondays, January 8 – May 20
Homework Help Center
3:45 pm – 5:45 pm
Students in grades K – 8 can get help with their homework questions.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Closed on Fremont Unified School District’s holidays and teacher workdays.
Mondays, January 8 – May 13
ASL Story Signing
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Story time for preschool to fifth grade, at different time slots.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Drop-in.
Second Mondays of the month
Mondays – Second, November 13 – September 09
Law Librarian Office Hours
1:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Answer legal reference questions, help locate legal forms, and provide referral services where possible.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
aclibrary.org/locations/FRM/
fr*****@ac*******.org
Walk in welcome.
Second Mondays of the month
Mondays, November 13 – October 9
Paperwork Clinic
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Legal team will be in the library to help.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
aclibrary.org/locations/csv/
jr*****@ac*******.org, mw*********@ac*******.org
Second Mondays of the month
Mondays – Thursdays, December 5 – May 30
Homework Help Center
3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Get your homework questions answered for grades K-8.
San Lo
renzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
aclibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/
sa********@ac*******.org
For kids, teens.
Mondays and Thursdays
Fruit Tree Gleaning
9:00 am – 10:30 am
Donate fresh fruits from your garden.
LEAF CR Stone Garden
55 Mowry Ave., Fremont
fremontleaf.org/glean
Mondays and Thursdays
Food Garden Volunteer
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Join us in our gardens, learning from experienced gardeners.
LEAF CR Stone Garden
55 Mowry Ave., Fremont
vo*******@fr*********.org
Volunteer agreement form is required.
Mondays and Thursdays
Free Hot Meals – Eden Greenway
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Food Truck to bring FREE hot meals to South Hayward.
Eden Greenway Park
25625 Cypress Ave., Hayward
(510) )881-7535
li**********@ha********.gov
On the corner of Harder and Cypress Avenue.
Mondays and Wednesdays, January 8 – May 29
Homework Help for Grades K-6
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Receive homework help from the tutors.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
Upcoming Events:
Tuesday, January 2
Hikes for Tykes
10:30 am – 11:45 am
Great views of the lake and wildlife as we walk and observe.
Lake Chabot Marina & Café
17936 Lake Chabot Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 544-3187
Drop-in.
Tuesday – Friday, January 2 – January 5
Vex IQ Robotics Camp $R
9:30 am – 3:30 pm
An overview of the world of VEX Robotics!
India Community Center
525 Los Coches St., Milpitas
(408) 934-1130
www.indiacc.org/wintercamps/
Age 8 – 13.
Tuesday – Tuesday, January 2 – January 9
Girls Who Code Registration Lottery
8:00 am – 11:45 pm
Online registration for the “Girls Who Code” program at the Cupertino Library
Online Event
sccl.bibliocommons.com/events/657b9c92e7f74a2a00471745
ml******@sc**.org
For girls in grade 6 – 11 only.
Enrollment: 1/2 – 1/9.
Wednesday, January 3
Teen Board Gaming Days: Let the Games Begin!
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
We need your help in learning how to play some of the new games.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
sa********@ac*******.org
Wednesday, January 3
Art x Mental Wellness Workshops
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Special workshops to learn about various mental health topics.
Centerville library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
Children in grades 1-6.
Thursday, January 4
Sky Dome Planetarium for Kids
1:00 pm – 5:15 pm
Join us for a magical adventure!
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Multiple sessions based on grade level.
Thursday, January 4
Movie Day: Elemental
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Join us for a family friendly movie!
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Rated PG.
Friday, January 5
Crystal Woven Lattice Bracelet with John Bead R$
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Use sparkling, Czech Crystal in a Right-Angle-Weave stitched bracelet.
Online Events
www.michaels.com
Age 18+. Zoom.
Saturday, January 6
DIY Craft Day: Paper Bag Animal Puppets
10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Join us for a DIY Craft Day!
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
All day.
Saturday, January 6
Storytime with AAC (Special Needs Friendly) R
10:30 am – 11:30 am
Build your child’s communication skills through Shared Reading!
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
pr*******@ac*******.org
Contact Polina at (510) 745-1464 ext. 6.
Saturday, January 6
Makerspace Intro: Sewing Machine
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Get hands-on experience sewing lines and contribute to a community quilt.
Irvington Library
41825 Greenpark Drive, Fremont
(510) 795-2631
For age 13+. Signed waiver.
Saturday, January 6
Financial Aid Office Hours R
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
For anyone interested in applying for college financial aid.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
rl**@sc**.org
Saturday, January 6
History in Photographs: The Oakland Speedway
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Join us for a race through the Oakland Speedway’s History.
San Leandro History Museum
320 W Estudillo Ave., San Leandro
(510) 577-3990
www.sanleandro.org
Saturday, January 6
What’s The Weather?
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Explore the answers to climate change and go outside to measure weather parameters.
Coyote Hills Visitors Center
8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont
(510) 544-3220
All ages.
Saturday, January 6
Saturday Stroll: Oyster Bay (Neptune Drive)
9:30 am – 11:30 am
Walk about 3 miles along the bay trail on a mostly flat loop.
Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline
1600 Neptune Dr., San Leandro
(888) 327-2757
Saturday, January 6
Reptiles and Amphibians! – with East Bay Regional Parks
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Join Naturalists in a program about local reptiles and amphibians.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
sa********@ac*******.org
Saturday, January 6
Eagle Watch
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Learn some fascinating facts about Bald Eagle as we look for recent activity.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757
All ages. Admission fee applies.
Saturday, January 6
Wild Things
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Explore the farm to learn a bit about these elusive wild animals.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757
All ages. (510) 544-2797.
Saturday – Sunday, January 6 – January 7
Fremont – Movie Screening R
Sat: 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Sun: 2 pm – 4:30 pm
Join us for a special screening of the critically acclaimed movie, Fremont.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Saturday – Sunday, January 6 – January 7
Friends of the Library Audiobook Sale
Sat: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sun: 10 am -1:30pm
Audiobooks on tape and CD from all genres will be for sale.
San Leandro Main Library
300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro
(510) 577-3970
Sunday, January 7
Practice Your English R
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
A conversation group for adults.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
www.aclibrary.org
Sunday, January 7
Lake Chabot Circumambulation
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
The hike is 9 miles and 900 feet of elevation, more or less.
Lake Chabot Marina & Café
17936 Lake Chabot Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 544-3187
Meet at Elderberry picnic area.
Sunday, January 7
New Year’s Vision Board
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Come in-store to make a fun free craft!
Michaels Stores
Fremont, Milpitas, San Leandro, Union City
www.michaels.com/classes
Recommend confirming details before attending.
Sunday, January 7
Bullet Journaling Workshop R
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Come hear about the ins and outs of bullet journaling.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
rp****@sc**.org
For ages 18+.
Sunday, January 7
ESL Conversation Club – Intermediate Level R
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
For adults looking to practice their English speaking and listening skills.
San Leandro Main Library
300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro
510-577-3971
https://sanleandro.libcal.com/
Monday, January 8
Outdoor Discoveries! Frogs And Toads R
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
A lesson with a Naturalist followed by a craft or activity.
Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3245
Age 4-8. Parking fee applies.
Monday, January 8
Affordable Housing R
Share your thoughts about a possible $10 to $20 billion Bay Area-wide affordable housing bond.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Reserve: (in person) tinyurl.com/register-for-in-person, or
tinyurl.com/register-for-online.
Mondays, January 8 – January 22
KidsConstruct!
2:30 pm – 4:30 pm
To build and play with LEGOs, blocks, magna-tiles, and more.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
For 5+ yrs.
Second and third Mondays of the month
Tuesday, January 9
ESL Conversation Club – Basic Level R
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
For adults looking to practice their English speaking and listening skills.
San Leandro Main Library
300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro
510-577-3971
https://sanleandro.libcal.com/
Tuesday, January 9
The Page Turners R
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
An evening book discussion for adults.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Tuesday, January 9
AWC Cinemas R
1:30 pm -04:00 pm
Come down to watch film “Green Book”
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Tuesday, January 9
Kids Club: Making Winter Friends with Clay $R
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Learn to sculpt winter figures using soft air-dry clay.
Online Events
www.michaels.com
All ages. Zoom.
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