01-24-23 Articles

Community Closet provides quality clothing at no cost

By Victor Carvellas

The Community Closet is returning to Union City’s Studio 11 on Tuesday, January 28. Visitors can take home high quality used (and new) donated clothing. Whether someone needs a new outfit for an interview, clothes for school, or just something to freshen up their wardrobe, Community Closet has hundreds of items, all at no cost, displayed in a boutique-like setting.

Community Closet is the creation of Sofia Dangerfield. A mother of two young girls, she decided to use what she had learned at San Francisco State as a fashion design and merchandising student to address the issue of “fashion equity,” the recognition that access to quality clothing is important at all income levels. “I was exposed to fashion in a new light,” says Dangerfield, “I recognized the social and environmental impact of fashion. College is where my passion for sustainability grew.”

Dangerfield also received a master’s degree in consumer behavior and studied the psychology of clothing, why people wear what they do. “During that study, I understood the inequality of dress,” she says. “I got a first-hand view of communities who were struggling just to have the basics, the essentials, like a jacket for their children or shoes that were functional for school. Once I became a mother, I became sensitive to the disparity surrounding access to clothes. It’s not right that people might lose out on advancement or employment opportunities because of the clothes they don’t have.”

Due to the impact of COVID, Dangerfield was out of both her merchandising job and her teaching post at SF State for many months. With time on her hands, she decided to put her ideas into action. “I pitched the Community Closet to the city of Union City, mainly because I’m from here, and I wanted to start here.” The response to Community Closet has been stellar and the January 28 event will be her sixth.

Sofia and her volunteers carefully sort all the donations they receive to ensure that the clothes they put on display are in excellent condition, clean, and ready to wear. Volunteers form the core of the Community Closet staff, and Dangerfield considers the volunteer opportunities to be as important as the clothes.

“I want to share what I know, as a mentor,” says Dangerfield. “I’ve helped high school students from Conley-Caraballo and Logan get the community service hours they need to graduate. Not only do they get the hours, they see for themselves where the needs and opportunities are in the community.”

Traditional sources of affordable clothing, like thrift stores, are getting more expensive. According to Dangerfield, “Gen Zs are combing the thrift stores for brand names or hard-to-find pieces and then reselling online at a profit. The market is driving up prices [to a level] some families can’t afford.”

“About ninety percent of people that come to the Community Closet event genuinely need the clothing,” she adds. “Often several generations of a family visit together. It’s true; we do get individuals who are looking for just the cool stuff to resell, and I’m not going to knock that. After all, it’s still giving those clothes a longer life cycle; they’re not becoming trash.”

In the age of fast fashion where consumers are encouraged to turn around their wardrobes quickly, the issue of textile waste is a growing concern. According to earth.org the average US consumer throws away 81.5 pounds of clothes every year, an estimated 11.3 million tons of textile waste that ends up in landfills.

Dangerfield is currently involved in a project with her colleague at SF State to assemble data on how much clothing The Community Closet is diverting from the waste stream. Her goal is to form a non-profit that, armed with numbers, can start looking for grants to dig into the issue further.

“We not only weigh the clothes we receive,” says Dangerfield, “we also keep track of the brands, what kinds of clothes, whether they are high-end or fast fashion. We track how much comes in and how much goes out. Besides the charitable aspect of Community Closet, I want to use what we discover to contribute to academic study of textile waste management.”

Clothes aren’t all that’s to be found at the Closet. “I get people asking me if I’m going to have blankets, or if I’m going to have backpacks,” she says. “I don’t have those things quite yet but I’m still learning the needs of the community. We do have lots of kids’ books, as well as hats, purses, shoes, and other accessories. I’m funding the events myself right now, but I’ve received monetary donations from the community, so I’ve been able to purchase more rolling racks, more hangers — plus buy breakfast and snacks for my volunteers!”

For more information on how to donate or volunteer, visit

www.mindfulmami.com/community-closet or the Union City Website www.unioncity.org/192/Community-Recreation-Services.

The Community Closet

Saturday, Jan 28

9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Studio 11

34626 11th St., Union City

Edwardian Ball

Submitted by Justin Katz

Cultural powerhouses PARADOX Media and Vau de Vire are announcing the return of the all-ages “Edwardian Ball” to The Regency Ballroom in San Francisco on February 3 and 4, 2023.

Now in its twenty-second year, The Edwardian Ball has blossomed from an underground club event into an internationally renowned, immersive and participatory festival of the arts. Complete with mesmerizing stage shows, interactive steam-powered art, immersive performances, an extensive, artisan Vendor Bazaar, a curiosity-filled Museum of Wonders, and an exquisite Grand Ballroom, The Edwardian Ball invites thousands of costumed revelers to join together to co-create an imagined “Edwardian” wonderland.

This year there is a bittersweet note to the annual celebration, as Edwardian founders and Co-Hosts of The Ball Rosin Coven, prepare to hang up their top hats and sashay their bustles into the sunset. This year will be their final performances on the Edwardian stage, appearing both nights, Friday and Saturday, to bid their dear friends and fans a loving farewell.

Says Rosin Coven bassist and Edwardian Ball producer Justin Katz, “We began this with a simple story, etched in pen and ink, projected on wall, with ramshackle props on a dilapidated stage. From the start, our unique flavor of gothic jazz and cabaret paired delightfully with Gorey’s ambling wit and sardonic prose. We simply had no idea this would grow over two decades into the colossally elegant, participant-driven spectacle that now includes so many from far and wide. We will be sad to close this long and wonderful chapter, but it’s been a beautiful ride and we are grateful to have been a small part of San Francisco’s rich underground history.”

Edwardian Ball co-hosts Vau de Vire Society will continue the vibrant tradition that they have built with Rosin Coven over the past 18 years, welcoming attendees into an immersive journey
through art, fashion, circus, theater and dance, while offering guests a non-judgmental canvas to freely express their art.

“The Edwardian Ball challenges expectations around what is possible to experience in a single evening” explains Mike Gaines, Director of Vau de Vire Society. “Music, theatre, circus, art, fashion, oddities, performances, vending, and dance all collide to create another world. There’s really nothing else like it in the Bay, or perhaps the world!”

The award-winning Edwardian Ball is presented over two nights, with both Friday and Saturday offering the full experience. Ticket options are available for one or both nights. Daytime programming on Saturday, February 4 features both free daytime shopping at the Vendor Bazaar and sold-out return of “Afternoon Tea in the Museum of Wonders,” an elegant and delectable afternoon of performance and oddities in a classical afternoon tea service format.

This year’s art and performance highlights include art exhibits by renowned artist Michael Garlington and Burning Man cultural founder Crimson Rose, as featured in the Edwardian Museum of Wonders. Performances include Bay Area musical legends Lavay Smith & Her Red Hot Skillet Lickers, Eric McFadden, Robin Coomer, dance performances by Zoe Jakes, elegant fashion performance by Dark Garden Corsetry and, of course, an homage to Edward Gorey.

Tickets, information, and full lineup are available at www.edwardianball.com.

The Edwardian Ball

Friday, Feb 3 – Saturday, Feb 4

Doors open: 8 p.m. (ends 2 a.m.)

Vendor Bazaar

Saturday, Feb 4

12 noon to 5 p.m.

Free admission

The Regency Ballroom

1300 Van Ness Avenue, San Francisco

General Admission: $150; Young Edwardians (16 and under) $45 (Friday only)

www.edwardianball.com

Tree Talk: Poems in the Air

Submitted by Olive Hyde Art Guild

The next exhibit at Olive Hyde Art Gallery will combine poetry, photography, and textile art with the collaboration “Tree Talk: Poems in the Air,” by Dotti Cichon and Nelly Capra.

Fascinated with new scientific research discovering trees have the ability to communicate with each other, Cichon was inspired to examine the voice of vegetation through her art, and Capra through her poetry. Poetry and photography will appear on a variety of textiles in surprising ways, immersing you in the mysterious world of Tree Talk.

Cichon has been a photographer since the age of six, often combining her work with other media. Her images of trees and nature encourage the viewer to contemplate the relationship among all living things. Mysterious trees floating on a void-like background bring to mind the threat deforestation through development and wildfires, while also expressing hope for the future through the bright foliage. These large-scale photos are printed on 6 x 4-foot fabric sheets that simulate the experience of walking through a forest.

Writing both in English and Italian, Capra lived in Genova, Italy before moving to the Bay Area in 1992. In addition to writing, she also translates from English to Italian and vice versa. She has participated in poetry readings and shows, and has published her own book of poetry titled “The Window Wide Open.”

Below is one of Capra’s poems that will be displayed at the exhibit:

If We Could hear Trees Talk

If we could hear trees talk

we’d realize

they recite poems

they serenade us

with the spirit they emanate

through their trunks branches leaves

fruits

in the poems they recite

they talk

of friendship sustenance home

wisdom

their colors are their words

their movements are their dance

their fragrance is their breath

their fruits are our delight

An opening reception for the exhibit will be held on Friday, January 27 at 7 p.m. Hope you can join in on the conversation!

Tree Talk: Poems in the Air

Through Saturday, Mar 18

Gallery Hours: Thurs – Sun; 12 noon – 5 p.m.

Opening Reception: Friday, Jan 27

7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Olive Hyde Art Gallery

123 Washington Blvd., Fremont

(510) 791-4357

http://olivehydeartguild.org/

2023 Winning Flower and Vegetable Varieties

By Melinda Myers

Photos courtesy of All-America Selections

It’s never too early to start planning new additions to this year’s gardens and containers. Start compiling your list now so you are ready to place your seed order or buy plants early when the selection is the greatest.

Consider including a few All-America Selections (AAS) winners. These plants have been “Tested Nationally & Proven Locally™” for their superior performance in home gardens and containers. (https://all-americaselections.org/product-category/year/2023/) Grow a few of these 2023 flower winners for a new look to some long-time favorites.

Coral Candy Coleus is part of the Premium Sun series of coleus. It is the first coleus grown from seed to be selected as an AAS Winner. This uniformly compact coleus has unique narrow, serrated, multicolored leaves. The AAS judges found this variety maintained the color even when grown in full sun. It performed well all season and had almost no flowers. You will only need three seeds to fill a 14 to 16” container.

Bring a bit of the tropics to your garden, patio, or balcony with Royal Hawaiian® Waikiki colocasia. This beautiful elephant ear wowed the judges with its sturdy burgundy stems and large glossy leaves featuring pink veins and creamy white centers. Waikiki reveals these striking colors earlier than other variegated colocasia. This compact variety holds up well in
wind and rain.

The stunning orange flowers of Doubleshot snapdragons will have you looking for spaces in the garden and containers to include this winner. This 18 to 20” tall snapdragon features open faced double flowers that start out in shades of orange and orange-red, transitioning to a dusty shade as they age. Its strong stems produce lots of flower-filled branches all season long that don’t break off in high winds.

Blue By You salvia is bursting with bright blue flowers from late spring into fall when spent flowers are removed. This perennial blooms up to two weeks earlier than similar varieties already on the market. It was tested over three seasons, including winters and proven to be hardy in zones 4b to 9a. It is a favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies, makes a great cut flower, is suitable for containers, and is heat tolerant. All this and it’s less favored by deer and rabbits.

Make space in the vegetable garden for the high-yielding Kabocha Sweet Jade winter squash. The fruit weighs between one and two pounds, making it perfect for single servings of squash, as an edible soup bowl, or added to a variety of Asian-style dishes where a sweet, earthy nutritious squash is typically recommended. Roast, bake, or puree Sweet Jade’s deep orange flesh that has a dry texture with a sweet flavor.

Grow San Joaquin jalapeño pepper when looking for big harvests in a short timeframe. This means you’ll have lots of peppers available for canning, pickling, and serving roasted and stuffed to large groups of guests. Leave them on the plant longer, allowing them to turn a beautiful red while maintaining their flavor. These thick-walled peppers have just a hint of heat at 2,500-6,000 Scoville units.

Make room in your gardens and containers for these and other winning varieties. Adding new introductions that have been trialed by horticulture professionals across North America helps increase your gardening success.

Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the recently released Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” instant video and DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and her website is www.MelindaMyers.com.

Fremont Needs Artists

Submitted by City of Fremont

The City of Fremont is excited to announce a new phase of the boxART! program. This effort transforms Fremont’s traffic signal control boxes into works of art for all to see. Fremont is issuing two different calls for artists for this next phase, which includes a total of 30 boxes. Artists are invited to apply for these opportunities to showcase their work and help beautify Fremont.

The City’s boxART! program helps bring art to Fremont, beautify the community, and abate graffiti. Through the program, launched in 2014, Fremont’s many traffic signal control boxes were transformed into compelling and creative murals. The program employs local artists from all facets of the community—professional artists, artists with special needs, students, etc.—to help be a part of the solution and bring art to their community.

The goal is to engage residents from the entire 90 square miles that is Fremont as they drive, walk, or bike throughout the city. Seeing art throughout Fremont creates positivity, pride, and a sense of community. To date, the city has transformed close to 90 boxes.

Students may submit artwork proposals to paint 10 traffic signal control boxes. Artists who work in photography or digital graphics may submit artwork proposals for vinyl to wrap 20 traffic signal control boxes.

Eligibility: All Fremont students in grades 7-12 and artists ages 18+ who have experience in photography or digital graphics and who are familiar with the area.

Theme: Climate action; sustainability; environmental awareness, and green building.

Submissions: Artists can apply independently or in teams.

Stipend: $300 (student); $500 (adult)

Submission deadline: Monday, January 30, 2023 by noon 12 p.m.

For more information regarding this opportunity visit city.fremont.gov/boxartcall.

boxART! call for artists

Submission deadline: Monday, Jan 30

12 noon

city.fremont.gov/boxartcall

Cohousing Becomes Trendy in the U.S.

Submitted by Evelyn LaTorre and Jane Mueller

In the wake of the pandemic, families seeking homes in 2023 have become acutely sensitive to avoiding isolation in their housing choices. Recent news coverage shows that too many people live among neighbors whom they rarely see or interact with. Members of Mission Peak Village, Fremont’s future cohousing community, believe that selecting a home is more than a real estate transaction; it is a lifestyle choice. In the cohousing approach, residents are their own developers with an active role in building homes on a site that meets their own rigorous criteria. By the time they move into their new homes on High Street, Mission Peak members will already be a connected community of intergenerational neighbors.

Mission Peak Village didn’t invent this approach. The group adopted the intentional community model that was popularized in Denmark and introduced to North America in 1988 by architects Kathryn McCamant and Chuck Durrett. In their seminal book, Cohousing: A Contemporary Approach to Housing Ourselves, the authors observed that cohousers in Denmark were happier and better connected to their neighbors. Most Americans in 1988 lived in tracts of compartmentalized single-family units. By contrast, residents in cohousing not only maintain a personal residence but also share amenities with their neighbors to reduce their cost of living. Opportunities for frequent interaction are built into daily life.

The cohousing movement has grown in North America in the years since publication of the first edition of the cohousing book. According to the Cohousing Association of the United States (CohoUS), there are currently about 180 cohousing communities in the United States and about 50 in Canada. At least 50 more cohousing communities are in the formative stage.

Trish Becker, CEO of CohoUS, observes, “I believe that humans need one another for meaning and survival and that collective housing is poised to be among the signature movements of our time.”

Ms. Becker is familiar with practice as well as theory. She was a founding member of Aria Cohousing and of Chase Street Commons, a micro-village built upon the principles of cohousing. When she came to CohoUS nearly a year ago, she brought more than a decade of experience working in nonprofit and higher education with a focus on community engagement, strategic partnerships
and event design. For the prior seven years, she had served as the Director of Community Engagement at the University of Denver’s Graduate School of Social Work (GSSW), leading community engagement initiatives and creating gatherings that advance social justice.

Ms. Becker is a Tedx speaker and a passionate advocate for housing solutions that address our collective crises of loneliness, environmental degradation, and housing inaccessibility. In her leadership role at CohoUS, she is charged with working to promote cohousing as a viable housing option. She helps communities get started and thrive. CohoUS provides a directory of cohousing communities in the United States, as well as a range of educational resources, including articles, videos, and workshops. Spreading the word about cohousing shifts the culture toward a new American dream where every home is surrounded by caring, collaborative neighbors who use less of the earth’s resources while living an abundant life.

This article is part of an ongoing series on cohousing. To learn more on the topic of cohousing, visit www.cohousing.org.

Mission Peak Village is a group of friends forming Fremont’s first cohousing community. Memberships are still available. Call Kelli at (510) 413-8446 or visit Mission Peak Village on Facebook, Instagram, or the www.missionpeakcohousing.org website, where you can register for a monthly walk to explore the neighborhood around the future site.

Glass—the Alluring Artistic Medium

Submitted by Lina Melkonian

Fremont Art Association (FAA) is delighted to have Susan Longini as the guest artist at its virtual “General Meeting and Art Demo” on Wednesday, February 1.

In her presentation/demo, “Glass—the Alluring Artistic Medium,” Longini will share her fascinating journey as a prolific kiln-formed glass artist. She will showcase her pâte de verre—French for glass paste—process, which uses glass frits and powders formed by hand and placed in a mold, then fired in a kiln to produce unique sculptures.

For over three decades, Longini has been immersed in the world of glass art. Her work has been exhibited throughout the United States and is in public and private collections in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Her work has been displayed locally at Triton Museum of Art, Los Gatos Museum of Art, and Oakland Museum. She is a frequent lecturer, guest curator and juror. Longini received her B.A. in Fine Arts from the University of Michigan and did postgraduate studies at San Jose State University and California College of the Arts. From 1986 to 2003 she was head of the Glass Program and Adjunct Professor at Ohlone College in Fremont. Since 2014 Longini has been Program Manager for boxART!City of Fremont’s traffic signal control box mural program.

Longini’s belief in the power of art in telling stories and depicting universal truths is evident throughout her expansive and distinctive body of work. Among her works are her vases which offer a reinterpretation of historic glass vessels. Her original glass quilt wall panels are reminiscent of the traditional patchwork quilts created by women. Several of her installations have been commissioned by Washington Hospital Health Services in Fremont, a testament of Longini’s keen understanding of the relationship between art and life.

You may view Longini’s works at www.susanlongini.com.

The demo is free to attend and will be held via Zoom. Participants must register in advance and will receive the Zoom link via email. All details may be found on the Fremont Art Association webpage: www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo.

Fremont Art Association General Meeting & Art Demo

Wednesday, February 1

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Online via Zoom

Register at: www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo

‘Past and Extant Farms in the Santa Clara Valley’

Submitted by Saratoga Historical Foundation

Santa Clara Valley, once known as the Valley of Heart’s Delight is now known as Silicon Valley. How, when, and why did it change? The Saratoga Historical Foundation presents, “Past and Extant Farms in the Santa Clara Valley” by Pioneer Agriculturist Andy Mariani on January 28 at 7 p.m. on Zoom. The talk covers a brief history of the farming industry in Santa Clara Valley, causes of its rapid decline, and profiles of some of the remaining farms, including their survival strategies, as they face the challenges of the increasingly urbanized world of Silicon Valley.

Educated in both horticultural and behavioral science, Andy Mariani, who grew up in Cupertino, continues to grow fruit on his family’s farm in Morgan Hill, but once pursued a career in city management and spent a year as Saratoga’s Administrative Assistant. His farm grows specialty fruit with a national reputation for its quality.

For more information go to www.saratogahistory.com or call (408) 867-4311.

Past and Extant Farms in the Santa Clara Valley

Saturday, Jan 28

7 p.m.

Online via Zoom

Register at: www.saratogahistory.com

Meeting ID: 819 8944 2077

Passcode: 175559

(408) 867-4311

Juried Photo Exhibit call for artists

Submitted by Arathi Satish

April is Arts, Culture and Creativity month in California, a month-long statewide effort organized by California for the Arts. The 28th Annual “Juried Photography Exhibit” will be held in conjunction with the celebrations.

The event is a joint venture of Fremont Cultural Arts Council (FCAC), Fremont Photographic society and City of Fremont. Julie Gilson, President, FCAC said, “FCAC is extremely pleased to have the 2023 edition of the Annual Juried Photography Exhibit coincide with Fremont’s first ever celebration of Arts, Culture and Creativity month, in conjunction with Fremont Creates. We hope that new participants are inspired to submit entries this year and look forward to images from prior participants. I want to emphasize this event is open to ALL levels of photographers – with the ability to take great images digitally with cell phones, anyone is able to submit show-worthy images.”

Photographs selected by a panel of judges will be displayed at Fremont Main Library. An opening night reception will be held on Saturday
, April 1, and the exhibit will be on display until May 6. This show is open to Fremont residents, students, employees of Fremont businesses and members of FCAC and Fremont Photographic Society. Images may be manipulated but all content must be the creation of the photographer and must be primarily photographic in nature. Entries must also be acceptable for general viewing.

Entries must be submitted by the original photographer who is the sole owner of the copyright of any image submitted. Entries by minors under the age of 18 must have the approval of a parent or guardian. By entering, photographers agree to have their submissions (winning or not) displayed on the FCAC website.

Photos will be judged on the basis of creativity, photographic quality, and effectiveness in conveying beauty or a concept.

An entry fee of $6 per photograph is charged with a maximum of five prints per entrant. There are two submission categories: Open (non-students) and Student (full-time students under the age of 25).

Digital images must be submitted using the online form as high-resolution JPG files. Images smaller than 1600×1600 pixels may be rejected. Maximum size is 5 MB. No watermarks, signatures, or copyright notices may be added to images. More details on frame size and entry forms can be found at www.fremontculturalartscouncil.org.

A list of selected photographs will be posted on the FCAC website and emailed to entrants. In addition to awards selected by the judges, visitors at the opening reception will vote on the “People’s Choice Award.”

The deadline for digital submissions is Midnight on February 26. Photographers will be emailed on March 4. Selected prints will be received in FCAC office on March 25 and 26. Prints can be picked up after the show ends at the Library on May 5 and 6 and at the FCAC office during normal business hours May 7 or later.

For more details, contact fc***************@gm***.com or Exhibit Chairperson Rajeev Shankar at (510) 399-3049.

Juried Photo Exhibit

Submission Deadline: Midnight on Sunday, Feb 26

Deliver to FCAC Saturday, Mar 25 – Sunday, Mar 26

FCAC office

3375 Country Drive

Fremont, CA 945638

Opening Reception

Saturday, Apr 1

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Exhibit runs through May 6

(510) 399-3049

www.fremontculturalartscouncil.org

Submission fee: $6 per photograph

Milpitas community celebration rings in Lunar New Year

By Amy Luo

The Lunar New Year always brings a time of togetherness and good cheer. On January 14, the Milpitas community embodied this festive spirit at the Lunar New Year Celebration hosted by the City’s Recreation and Community Services Department. Despite torrential rain over the weekend, families and friends flocked to the Milpitas Civic Center Plaza on Saturday to celebrate in anticipation of the forthcoming Year of the Rabbit.

Decked out in scarlet-red lanterns, intricate paper cuttings, and banners professing happiness and luck for the new year, the entire plaza was transformed for the celebratory event. An array of Chinese and Vietnamese cultural performances led by local youth occurred simultaneously in various locations within the venue — the Viet Youth Dancing and Singing ensemble performed vibrant renditions of traditional Vietnamese New Year songs, and the Milpitas High School Lion Dance Club staged lively lion dance routines behind Chinese tanggu drum and cymbal music.

Aimusic.us, a musical arts institution, was invited to perform a series of Chinese classical pieces, while the Vietnamese rock band Vrock provided an energetic soundtrack to the event. In addition to musical numbers, students from Cantrelle’s Martial Arts, a family-owned Kenpo Karate Studio, put on several martial arts routines in the Senior Center Community room.

While various celebratory performing arts routines thrilled the crowd of attendees, the Milpitas event organizers and Mandarin Language and Cultural Center also set up craft and activity booths for children to enjoy. Volunteers guided participants through elaborate Chinese calligraphy and painting techniques, provided crafting supplies for kids to fold and decorate their own paper lanterns, and organized lunar calendar zodiac games. In addition, red envelopes stuffed full of gold chocolate coins were handed out to children as a symbol for prosperity and good luck in the new year.

As the event came to an end, San Francisco-based performance troupe LionDanceMe closed off the night with a series of lion and dragon dance, while the weather cleared up just in time for a finale of lighting firecrackers in the Senior Center Courtyard. Attendees joyously cheered and looked on after a fun-filled night of ringing in the Lunar New Year.

Local event honors MLK Day

By Esha Bansiya

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. inspired many to use their voices to fight for equality. He once said, “I came to the conclusion that there is an existential moment in your life when you must decide to speak for yourself; nobody else can speak for you.” Almost 60 years later, Dr. King’s words continue to inspire youth to fight for peace in their communities. On the morning of January 16, students and locals of San Leandro attended the annual MLK Day Open Mic at the Marina Community Center to commemorate the late Dr. King and appreciate the diversity of their community.

As they filed in, residents were welcomed by volunteers and given the chance to grab snacks and coffee. The vibrancy of the community was visible as residents from all over the city joined to honor Dr. King. San Leandro Mayor Juan Gonzalez opened the event with an appreciation for the diversity and community in San Leandro: “We are here today to celebrate tremendous progress. It’s one thing to have a vision, and it’s one thing to have a dream, but it’s another thing to make it happen. In San Leandro, we embrace diversity. Today, we honor Dr. King’s dream of equality through the celebration of dance, sound, and speech, and so we are thrilled to have you here today.”

Bernade Ashcraft, emcee for the event and founder of African Americans for a Better San Leandro, introduced Tacuma King, a traditional West African music teacher. King and two other musicians filled the hall with the harmonious sounds of Kaiso, traditional music from West Africa. Once he finished his piece, he invited children to the stage to play drums and percussion.

After the traditional music, the main event began. The third through fifth-grade speakers were called on stage first: Mariana Angel, Prince Anku, Kaiden Patterson, Sarah Hernandez, Emily Lin, and Iseoluwa A
ladesanmi. Notably, Kaiden Patterson confidently recited his poem “My Entirety” by Ayesha Patterson, his mother. She said she wrote this poem because, “Everyone is always complimenting his athletics, but he is smart too. I wanted him to know he is more than just his talents, and I wanted his entire person to be acknowledged.” Patterson wrote the poem to give confidence to her son as well as express her own voice through poetry.

Next, the middle school speakers were called up: Nyla Parker, Gianardo Fiero, and Rachel Hernandez. Gianardo Fiero gave an original speech about violence in his school and community. He wanted to inspire students and residents to advocate for peace and speak up to violence. “I have been trained to fight, but I’ve also been trained to fight for peace. Nonviolence does not mean non-action. Say no to violence in your school and community. Peace matters.”

Finally, the high school speakers were called on stage: Ireoluwa Aladesnmi, Alvin Wong, and Iteoluwa Aladesanmi. Iteoluwa Aladesanmi’s poem “A Letter to Martin Luther King” started with a commemoration of Dr. King: “Dear MLK, You saw a better future, a brighter one, you pushed for harmony, a peaceful one, you fought for equal rights, a free one.” Dr. King motivates Aladesnmi to use her voice, and she ended her poem with, “You inspired a nation, a people, a community, a family. You inspire me. We can do that too; we can inspire our family and our community. Your admirer, Iteoluwa.” Aladesanmi wrote her poem to show the impact anyone can make on their community.

While scores were being tallied, members of the audience shared their personal experiences and appreciation for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Finally, the winners were announced: Kaidan Patterson, Rachel Hernandez, and Alvin Wong placed first in their age divisions, while Emily Lin, Gianardo Fiero, and Iteoluwa Aladesanmi placed second. Despite not all participants winning, each speaker stood proudly on stage.

San Leandro has held this event for decades and has honored Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. while inspiring the youth to use their voices. The speeches and poems highlighted the diversity of the San Leandro community, and allowed everyone to feel a sense of belonging. This historic day and event has allowed residents to bond and appreciate each other’s differences as a community.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Nicolas Bearde’s ‘Jazz for Lovers’

Submitted by Terry Liebowitz

Get a jumpstart on Valentine’s celebrations with vocalist Nicolas Bearde and his quartet, Saturday, February 4 at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts. With his rich and silky baritone, fans often compare him to Nat King Cole and Lou Rawls. In his show, Jazz for Lovers, Bearde delivers romantic interpretations of contemporary jazz, blues, classics, and his elegant originals. He is one of today’s premier male jazz recording artists, soon to release his seventh album. Glen Pearson (piano), Edwin Livingston (bass), Lorca Hart (drums), and Charles McNeal (sax) will join Bearde on stage.

Multi-talented, Bearde is a songwriter, educator, voice-over artist, and actor. Nicolas regularly sells out at SFJazz Center, Yoshi’s Jazz Club, Blue Note Napa, Smoke and Birdland in NY, Jazz Café in London, and Hermann’s in Victoria, Canada. He has performed on four continents and has been a highly sought-out solo artist and front-man at International Jazz festivals including Monterey Jazz, North Sea, Montreaux, Stuttgart and Burghausen, San Jose Jazz and the Vancouver Folk Festival. He has appeared in numerous stage plays and several feature films including Final Analysis with Richard Gere and True Crime with Clint Eastwood as well as popular TV shows Nash Bridges and Monk.

All About Jazz says, “When Nicolas Bearde’s soulful and affecting baritone sits atop impeccably tailored arrangements of sterling standards, the results are absolutely stunning!” Tickets are available at www.cvartsfoundation.org or (510)-889-8961. Free parking is available for this event.

‘Jazz for Lovers’ with Nicolas Bearde

Saturday, Feb 4

7:30 p.m.

Castro Valley Center for the Arts

19501 Redwood Road, Castro Valley

(510)-889-8961

www.cvartsfoundation.org

New Farmers Market coming to Niles Fremont

Submitted by Niles Main Street Association

Niles Main Street Association is proud to announce a new partnership with Foragers Market to operate the new Saturday Niles Fremont Farmers Market starting Saturday April 1, 2023.

Foragers Market, operators of the successful Livermore Downtown Farmers Market and San Ramon Farmers Market at City Center Bishop Ranch, will bring a new vibrant, community-driven farmers market that will feature 30-40 of the Bay Area’s best growers and producers including vendors with fresh cut flowers, gourmet mushrooms, microgreens, honey, pasture raised meats, eggs, dairy and non-dairy products, artisan bakeries, coffee, fresh pressed juices, gourmet street food vendors and more! The Market will also host live, weekly entertainment.

Niles Fremont Farmers Market will be located at the same Saturday location at 37592 Niles Boulevard and operate year-round on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. beginning Saturday, April 1.

For information on becoming a vendor or community partner, please visit www.nilesfarmersmarket.org.

Niles Fremont Farms Market Grand Opening

Saturday, Apr 1

9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

(Market will run year-round)

37592 Niles Blvd., Fremont

www.nilesfarmersmarket.org

Donate now to keep blood and platelets stocked

Submitted by Jenny Arrieta

As National Blood Donor Month continues this January, the American Red Cross celebrates those who give blood and platelets to help save lives − especially now, as we work to ensure a stable blood supply amid the threat of icy winter weather and severe seasonal illness. Donors of all blood types – particularly type O blood donors, the most needed blood group by hospitals – and platelet donors are needed daily to meet demand.

The start of the new year is one of the most challenging times to collect enough blood products, despite the constant demand. One in 7 patients entering a hospital will need a blood transfusion – yet only 3% of the public gives blood.

Don’t wait until there’s a crisis to donate. To book a time to give blood or platelets, visit RedCross
Blood.org, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, or call 1-800-RED CROSS.

In partnership with the National Football League (NFL), those who come to give blood, platelets or plasma through Jan. 31, 2023, will be automatically entered to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LVII in Arizona*, including access to day-of, in-stadium pre-game activities, tickets to the official Super Bowl Experience, round-trip airfare to Phoenix, three-night hotel accommodations (Feb. 10-13, 2023), plus a $500 gift card for expenses.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Fremont

Saturday, Jan 28

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Pathway Community Church

4500 Thornton Ave., Fremont

Newark

Wednesday, Jan 25 – Thursday, Jan 26

11:45 a.m. – 6:15 p.m.

Fremont – Newark Blood Donation Center

39227 Cedar Blvd., Newark

Friday, Jan 27 – Sunday, Jan 29

8:15 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.

Fremont – Newark Blood Donation Center

39227 Cedar Blvd., Newark

Monday, Jan 30 – Tuesday, Jan 31

11:45 a.m. – 6:15 p.m.

Fremont – Newark Blood Donation Center

39227 Cedar Blvd., Newark

 

How to donate blood

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds, and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

Amplify your impact − volunteer!

Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check-in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience.

Volunteers can also serve as transportation specialists, playing a vital role in ensuring lifesaving blood products are delivered to nearby hospitals. For more information and to apply for either position visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.

New Stratford School holds ribbon cutting

Submitted by Jodie Fredericks

On Thursday, January 19, Stratford School Milpitas held a ribbon cutting for the grand opening of its Beresford Square facility. Stratford School founder Sherry Adams was in attendance. The school serves Pre-K through Middle School students.

For community members who want to learn more, Stratford School will hold an open house on Saturday, January 28 starting at 10 a.m. Information is also available online at www.stratfordschools.com. Use the “Find Your Campus” option to find the Milpitas school.

Have your say about public services

Submitted by City of Union City

Union City Housing & Community Development Department officials are asking residents to share their thoughts about what types of public services the city should be providing.

As part of this process, they have posted an online Community Public Needs Assessment Survey. The multiple-choice survey asks residents to provide input on numerous topics including:

• What services are most helpful
• What services should be expanded
• How can city officials better connect people with available services

The survey, available in English and Spanish will be available through February 7. To access it, visit:

• www.surveymonkey.com/r/UnionCity_English
• www.surveymonkey.com/r/UnionCity_Espanol

All survey responses are anonymous and respondents will have a chance to include comments. For details, send an email to Housing & Community Development Manager Francisco Gomez Jr. at Fr********@un*******.org or call (510) 675-5322.

Harmony Day – Bystander Intervention Training

Submitted by Canice McLaughlin

Have you ever been in a situation where you saw a person being harassed and wanted to help? But you didn’t know what to do or how to safely intervene? Come to Bystander Intervention Training (BIT) on Sunday, February 5, at Fremont Main Library.

The program teaches bystanders about the principles of nonviolence and de-escalation techniques. In a workshop setting, participants will learn how to de-escalate a hate incident before it leads to violence, create a safe space, and support the person being targeted.

Tri-City Interfaith Council (TCIC) presents this program as part of World Interfaith Harmony Week, established in 2010 by the United Nations. Realistic scenarios of harassment are discussed and then you will learn skills to support and protect the vulnerable person while keeping yourself safe. Bystander Intervention Training is offered by the Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR) of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Everyone is invited. You may attend in person (masks required) or online via Zoom. Please register in advance on Signup Genius at: https://tinyurl.com/3yxzd4r5

Tri-City Interfaith Council’s mission is to promote respect, understanding, cooperation, and appreciation for the many spiritual paths and faith traditions within our community that inspire and teach us to love and support one another. To learn more, please visit www.TCICouncil.Weebly.com or find us on Facebook.

Harmony Day – Bystander Intervention Training

Sunday, Feb 5

2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

www.TCICouncil.Weebly.com

https://tinyurl.com/3yxzd4r5

Electric vehicles for everyone?

By Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss

Dear EarthTalk: Which of the EV models now available in the U.S. provide the most bang for the buck? Is now a good time to finally make the upgrade from my internal combustion car?

— P. Bronson, Tampa, Florida

With some 43 new battery-powered electric vehicles (EVs) debuting in the U.S. this 2023 model year, not to mention the continued production and sales of 32 previous EV models, there has never been a better time to make the switch from your internal combustion gas guzzler to something greener. The increased competition among carmakers for your EV dollars means lower prices all around; indeed 14 different EVs sport sticker prices of $40,000 or below.

Cheapest of them all is still the Nissan Leaf, with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $27,400. While this is the only EV for sale in the U.S. with a sticker price under $30k, the trade-off is less range; the Leaf will only get you about 149 miles per full charge, making it perfect for short commutes or jaunts around town but not so good for road trips. (Nissan also offers a Leaf “Plus” model with a bigger battery array that sells for $5,000 more but gets you 226 miles between charges.)

The next cheapest EV is Chevrolet’s Bolt, with a sticker price of $31,500 and a range of 259 miles; given this longer range, this little hatchback by one of America’s great carmakers might just be the best bang-for-buck option out there. Chevy is also offering a Bolt EUV model which gives customers a roomier interior for $2,000 more than the base Bolt, but with slight range trade-off (247 miles between charges).

Other good options for cost-conscious EV buyers include Hyundai’s Kona Electric ($34,000; 258-mile range), Subaru’s Solterra SUV ($37,000; 285-mile range), Kia’s Niro EV ($39,990; 239-mile range). Also, under $40k but with less range, include Hyundai’s Ioniq Electric sedan ($33,245; 170-mile range), Mazda’s MX30 crossover ($33,470; 100-mile range), and Mini Cooper’s EV ($33,900; 114-mile range).

Of course, these MSRPs don’t factor in tax rebates and other financial incentives. In the U.S., EV buyers still qualify for up to $7,500 in tax credits. The amount varies depending on your tax bracket and other factors including where the vehicle in question was built. Some state governments and municipalities offer their own incentives for EV buyers. Get the full run down for your location via the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE), a free and comprehensive resource on federal, state and regional incentives supporting renewables and energy efficiency across the U.S.

Going electric is definitely a step in the right direction for the environment given how much less pollution is caused by charging your car up with electricity as opposed to filling ‘er up with gas. But if you think you’re doing Mother Nature a favor by turning in or selling a perfectly good gas car so you can upgrade, you might want to think twice. The overall environmental impact of producing your brand-new EV far outweighs that of continuing to drive a gas car around. But if it’s really time to upgrade or you just need a car now, buying an EV is the smart and responsible way to go.

ONLINE CONTACT

DSIRE: https://www.dsireusa.org.

EarthTalk is produced by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss for the nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: qu******@ea*******.org.

HISTORY MATTERS

By John Grimaldi and David Bruce Smith

January 16 through 31

Extraordinary expedition

On January 18, 1803, President Thomas Jefferson requested a congressional authorization of $2,500 to underwrite an expedition by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, to determine the expanse of the country. According to History.com, the cost ramped up to $50,000; an equivalent of $1,177, 765 in contemporary currency.

Sixteen months later, the two explorers — along with a company of 50 — set out on their mission. It included a former African American slave “and a female Native American guide named Sacagawea. The team, which Jefferson called the Corps of Discovery, first surveyed the territory that comprised the Louisiana Purchase, a vast expanse that reached as far north as present-day North Dakota, south to the Gulf of Mexico and stopped at the eastern border of Spanish territory in present-day Texas. The team then crossed the Rockies and navigated river routes to the Pacific coast of present-day Oregon. Upon their return, the duo’s reports of the exotic and awe-inspiring new lands they had encountered sparked a new wave of westward expansion,” as reported by History.com.

For more information, the Grateful American Book Prize recommends “Corps of Discovery: A Novel Based on the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1803-1806” by Jeffrey W. Tenney.

A time of discovery

On January 27, 1888, a party of 33 geographers, explorers, teachers, lawyers, cartographers, military officers, and financiers convened in Washington D.C., and inaugurated the National Geographic Society.

History.com says they all “shared an interest in scientific and geographical knowledge, as well as an opinion that in a time of discovery, invention, change and mass communication, Americans were becoming more curious about the world around them. With this in mind, the men drafted a constitution and elected as the Society’s president a lawyer and philanthropist named Gardiner Greene Hubbard. Neither a scientist nor a geographer, Hubbard represented the Society’s desire to reach out to the layman.”

The Grateful American Book Prize recommends “The National Geographic Society: 100 Years of Adventure and Discovery” by C. D. B. Bryan.

The 13th Amendment

During the Civil War, Union forces frequently freed slaves wherever they were found; then, after Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation took effect January 1, 1863, bondage was declared illegal, and the President’s Executive order dusted up discord over the issues of states’ rights–and “what to do about slavery in border states that had not seceded or in areas that had been captured by the Union before the proclamation,” reports History.com

A year later, the Senate passed the 13th amendment — a tryout to officially trounce the “institution” — but the House Democrats rejected the reform. Lincoln, however, was re-elected with significant majorities — in each house — enough to sweep up posthumous ratification — and recognition — in 1864. The amendment was finally passed in the two houses of Congress on January 31, 1865.

The Grateful American Book Prize recommends “Final Freedom: The Civil War, the Abolition of Slavery, and the Thirteenth Amendment” by Michael Vorenberg.

This feature is courtesy of The
Grateful American Book Prize, which is an annual award given to authors who have created outstanding works of historical fiction or nonfiction for seventh to ninth graders. Visit them at gratefulamericanbookprize.com.

News and notes from around the world

Submitted by The Association of Mature American Citizens

Saved by the bell

Mauricio Henao parked his car at the base of a hillside on the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California and got out to answer his cell phone; it saved his life. A few moments later a rockslide — including a giant boulder — landed on the car, compressing it in a manner seconds. It happened in the wake of recent torrential rains; the call saved his life, says the Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC). Henao was succinct when he described it: “I was in the driver’s seat, walked out, got a call, ran back inside, came out and the car was just totaled.” See video of the boulder that hit Henao’s car on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=PhLe6Rwpwcs.

This boa was no scarf

The lady was all set to board her flight at Tampa International Airport in Florida recently but when she put her carry-on bag through the checkpoint X-ray machine the TSA agents saw that the boa in her bag was not a kind of decorative scarf, it was a boa constrictor, according to AMAC. She claimed the snake was her emotional support pet; the TSA said in an Instagram post, “Our officers at Tampa International Airport didn’t find this hyssssssterical! Coiled up in a passenger’s carry-on was a 4-foot boa constrictor! We really have no adder-ation for discovering any pet going through an X-ray machine.” See TSA X-ray video of the snake on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ITOwKXMHpWc.

He lives for his headstands

Twenty-years ago this spry Canadian gymnast, Bruce Ives, started a birthday tradition of standing on his head to celebrate the occasion. He is 82 now and he’s still at it, reports AMAC. In fact, the Guinness Book of World Records has declared him to be the oldest man on the planet to perform headstands, taking the title away from the previous record holder who was a mere 75. Says Ives, “In my 60s, when my grandchildren were around in my lawn in the summertime, I just gave it a shot to get them involved in gymnastics as well. It just grew from there — it became a custom on my birthdays.” See video of Ives doing a headstand: vancouver.citynews.ca/2023/01/12/bc-headstand-guinness-world-record/.

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.

Park It: Tilden Fungus Fair

By Ned MacKay

Winter rains always stimulate mushroom growth in Bay Area woodlands, and if abundant rain is a factor, this year should bring a bumper crop.

So, some words of caution are in order. Please remember that collecting mushrooms or any other plants and animals is against the rules in the East Bay Regional Parks. The parks are essentially wildlife areas where we are supposed to “take only pictures, leave only footprints.”

Beyond that, collecting mushrooms in the wild can be dangerous. Both edible and poisonous mushrooms grow in the parks. Among the poisonous kind are the death cap (Amanita phalloides) and Western destroying angel (Amanita ocreata), two of the world’s most toxic varieties.

Both contain amatoxins, molecules that are deadly to humans and many animals, including pets. The two varieties grow mainly under oak trees or anywhere that oak roots are present. Other mushrooms in this area that contain deadly toxins include Galerina and Lepiota species.

Symptoms may not appear until up to 12 hours after consumption, beginning as severe gastrointestinal distress that can be life threatening if treatment is not sought immediately. Dog owners: Keep a close watch on your pets during winter months. If you believe your dog may have eaten a poisonous mushroom, contact a veterinarian immediately.

In sum, if you collect mushrooms in areas where it is permitted, expertise is a must. For the rest of us, the best place to collect is your local supermarket.

That said, a great opportunity to learn more about mushrooms is the 2023 Tilden Fungus Fair. It’s a free event from 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, January 28 and 29, at the Environmental Education Center in Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley. The program will include guest speakers from the mycology community, arts and crafts for children, mushroom cooking, mushroom ice cream, and hundreds of locally collected mushrooms on display.

The center is at the north end of Tilden’s Central Park Drive. For information, call (510) 544-2233.

If you can’t make the fungus fair, check out a mushroom program scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 28 at Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont. It’s free and registration is not required. The park’s naturalist staff will explain why mushrooms grow in circles and describe their fairy tale associations. The group will search for mushroom rings, and make a fairy craft to take home.

Ardenwood is located at 34600 Ardenwood Boulevard, just north of Highway 84. Park admission fees apply; parking is free. For information, call (510) 544-2797.

You can often tell animals’ presence and diet by the scat they leave behind. Find out more during a program from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, January 28 at Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont. Naturalist Martha Cerda will lead a walk in search of animal signs. Meet at the visitor center. This is a drop-in program; registration is not necessary. All ages are welcome; parent participation is required.

Access to the Coyote Hills Visitor Center via the Patterson Ranch Road park entrance may be impacted due to flooding from recent storms. Check program and park status at www.ebparks.org before you go. The program may transition to virtual, depending on park access. Coyote Hills is at the end of Patterson Ranch Road off Paseo Padre Parkway. For information, call (510) 544-3220.

Spotting and identifying migratory shorebirds is the goal of a program from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, January 28 at the Doug Siden Visitor Center at Crab Cove in Alameda, with naturalist Susan Ramos. The program is free and registration is not required. Beginning birders are welcome and some binoculars will be available to borrow.

Crab Cove is at 1252 McKay Ave. off Alameda’s Central Avenue. For information, call (510) 544-3187.

The East Bay’s backyard volcano is the destination for a Wednesday Walk from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on February 1 with naturalist Michael Charnofsky. Meet Michael at the Tunn
el Road Staging Area for Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve. It’s just off Highway 24 at the east end of the Caldecott Tunnel in Orinda.

This is a moderate 5½-mile hike with ups and downs. The group will explore two ponds in search of amphibians, take in some great scenic vistas and view some volcanic geology.

Wednesday Walks is a series of free, naturalist-led hikes exploring various regional parks. No registration is necessary; everyone is welcome. For directions and information about the Sibley hike, call (510) 544-3187.

There are many programs planned in coming days in the regional parks. For a complete list, visit the district website at www.ebparks.org. And be sure to check the website before visiting a regional park to be sure that weather conditions or storm damage have not resulted in program cancellations, park closure or restricted access.

Is recycling enough? Where does recycling fit into the Circular Economy?

By Vandana Balakrishnan

Have you heard the term “wishcycling”? It refers to the idea that consumers want to believe that they are doing something positive for the environment, and place items that are not going to get recycled into the recycle bin, much to the frustration of waste collection facilities. A parallel can be drawn to the bigger concept of recycling. As consumers of convenience, we – customers and businesses alike – would like to believe that recycling would solve all the world’s problems. If all the material in the world were simply recycled efficiently, can’t we go on with our business as normal without having to change the bigger design? Tempting, but unfortunately not true.

Recycling can’t stand alone if we truly want to make impactful change. In fact, if all circular design concepts were to stand on a scale, the least impactful would be recycling. This is because recycling simply deals with the end of a product’s lifecycle and does not require businesses to rethink strategy or product design. It enables companies to carry on as usual, and leave the messy business of recycling to someone else!

A circular economy challenges us to consider waste and pollution as design flaws. These problems need to be thought through at the beginning of the design process rather than simply dealt with as an afterthought once waste is created. So, let’s see how recycling fits in with circular economy concepts.

• Regenerate. Regenerative resources are resources that go back into the earth, and in some way participate in nature’s regenerative lifecycle. The obvious place for regenerative practices is in the food industry. Regenerative farming focuses on minimizing and/or eliminating synthetic inputs, and building healthy soils that absorb rather than release carbon.
• Reduce. The idea of reducing consumption seems antithetical to the core values of American capitalism. Yet, it is important to acknowledge that our current trends of mindless consumerism that align well with the capitalistic model are at odds with the environment at large.
• Upcycle. The unfortunate reality of manufacturing processes around the world, and especially for products catered to the Western world, is that resource extraction is maximized for a particular use/product, often while wasting or under-utilizing a secondary resource extracted along with the first. This is often the case with food businesses when profits are centered on a particular part of a plant. The remaining part of the plant is often wasted and not used to its full potential. Companies are now leveraging this waste to create food products with secondary resources (e.g., food upcycling products).
• Reuse/Rental. One of the best ways to bring circularity into the system is to adopt a rental model for consumer products instead of a one-way sale. Any model that allows a product to be reused through many iterations, whether by facilitating reuse or rental, will minimize the waste of resources typical of a linear buy and dispose model. Rental models naturally build in a means by which the product is returned to a single entity that controls distribution and can then be rented out many more times.
• Repurpose. Another model allows products to be repurposed after the original purpose has been fulfilled. Some companies are specifically designing products with “repurpose” built in to the original appeal. An example that comes to mind are candles that are specifically marketed as repurposable into pots in the future. A good designer will empower the user to easily repurpose the product into its secondary use through education and ease of repurpose.
• Takeback. In this model, the product or resource finds its way back to its original producer such that it can be recycled or preferably reused in future products. This eliminates the problem of the consumer or even waste facilities having to determine the best end of life scenario for any given product.
• Recycle. While obviously preferable to the linear model that does not concern itself with waste at all, and assumes the product will end up in a landfill, recycling necessitates that the resource is completely broken down and rebuilt into an entirely new thing. As long as the above strategies are employed prior to this last stage, recycling is a necessary and important part of the circular system. Unfortunately, recycling is heralded as a solution to our sustainability problem, but it cannot deliver on its own unless used in addition to the strategies above, which use resources more efficiently for a longer period of time.

Vandana Balakrishnan, The Circular People. A longer version of this article can be found at thecircularpeople.com

Social Security Matters

By Russell Gloor, National Social Security Advisor, AMAC Foundation

Ask Rusty – Will My Work Earnings Affect My Social Security Benefits?

Dear Rusty: I am presently 67 years of age and am still working full time. I am receiving Medicare coverage, but I have not yet applied for monthly Social Security payments. I have been told that I can take SS payments even if I am still working. Is that correct? Is there a limit to how much I can earn each year and still receive SS payments? Signed: Working but Wondering

Dear Working: Social Security’s so-called “earnings test” applies only to those who haven’t yet reached their full retirement age. At 67 years of age, you are already past your SS full retirement age (FRA) of 66 years and 2 months, which means there is no longer a limit to how much you can earn from working. Regardless of how much you earn, your monthly Social Security benefits will not be affected, so you can claim your Social Security at any time and not worry about your benefits being affected.

You should also know that because you haven’t yet claimed your Social Security, your monthly benefit has been growing since you reached your full retirement age in October of 2021. You’ve been earning Delayed Retirement Credits (DRCs) at the rate of .667% more benefit for each month you have delayed cl
aiming, so your benefit now at 67 would be over 8% more than it would have been at your FRA last year. And, if you wish to, you can continue waiting to claim SS and continue to earn those DRCs to get a still higher benefit. But DRCs stop when you reach 70, when you would get your maximum Social Security benefit – about 31% more than your FRA amount – so never wait past age 70 to claim.

To recap: Because you’ve already passed your full retirement age you can claim your SS benefit now (e.g., to start in January) and get a benefit which is 8+% more than you would have gotten if you claimed at your full retirement age, or you can continue to wait and get an even higher amount by claiming even later. Which way to go depends a lot on your current financial needs and your life expectancy. If you don’t urgently need the money now and are in good health and expect at least average longevity (about 84 for a man your current age), then waiting longer to claim would be a smart move. But if you need (or want) the money now, then claiming at this time would also be a wise choice. In either case, you don’t need to worry about your earnings from work negatively affecting your monthly Social Security benefit – they won’t.

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.

Alameda County Water District

January 12, 2023

Action Items:

• Authorize professional services agreement for Emergency Action Plans with Water Resources Engineering, Inc. Motion adopted 4-0; Weed abstained.
• Approve an amended cooperative agreement for water transfer and exchange project between Alameda County Water District and Contra Costa Water District. Motion unanimously adopted.
• Authorize a new contract with MissionSquare to continue to provide deferred compensation plan services and amend contract with MissionSquare for retiree health savings plan services. Motion unanimously adopted.
• Amend the Collection and Residential Water Service Termination Policy to collect delinquent and unpaid charges for owner occupied single family residential accounts on the property tax roll. Motion adopted 4-1; Huang voted no.
• Authorize a memorandum of agreement to participate in the Regional Purified Water Pilot Project Phase 2 — Public Outreach and Grant Funding Opportunities. Item tabled for clarification at a future meeting.
• Authorize a settlement and release agreement for the Rubber Dam No. 1/Alameda County Drop Structure Fishway, Rubber Dam No. 1 control building modifications, and Shinn Pond Fish Screens construction. Motion adopted 4-0; Weed abstained.

Consent Calendar:

• Approve public water system extension agreement with Merida Place LLC for Muse Court Condominiums.
• Reaffirm COVID-19 health and safety concerns that impact the ability for meetings to be held safely in person.
• Resolution honoring Timothy Gruchow upon his retirement from ACWD.
• Authorize purchase of a heavy-duty equipment fleet vehicle.
• Authorize professional services agreement for Security Master Plan with Aanko Technologies, Inc.
• Approve the 42155 Vargas Road Well Construction Project as exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act.
• Execute a funding agreement with California Department of Water Resources for the ACWD Alternative Data Gap Monitoring Well Project.
• Accept the completion of Avalon Tank Hillside Slope Erosion Protection Project.
• Accept completion of the removal, disposal and installation of filter media in filters 4-6 at WTP No. Project.

President Paul Sethy               Aye

John Weed                              Aye

Aziz Akbari                             Aye

James Gunther                        Aye

Judy Huang                             Aye

White House Mindful Of California Storm Victims’ Trauma

The Associated Press

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — President Joe Biden is touring damaged areas and being briefed on recovery efforts Thursday after devastating storms hit California in recent weeks, killing at least 20 people and causing destructionacross 41 of the state’s 58 counties.

The president, accompanied by Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell, Gov. Gavin Newsom and other state and local officials, is visiting the storm-damaged Capitola Pier in Santa Cruz County, where he is meeting with business owners and affected residents.

Biden will also meet with first responders and deliver remarks on supporting the state’s recovery at nearby Seacliff State Park. More than 500 FEMA and other federal personnel have been deployed to California to support the emergency response operations.

Criswell said Thursday (Jan. 19) on the trip from Washington to California that the president and staff have to be mindful of what people have been through when traveling to places devastated by storms and other natural disasters.

“There has just been so much trauma to this community and it’s really important that we keep that in mind. … These communities have had loss of life, loss of their well-being and their livelihood, and I think it’s incredibly important that they know that the president is here to support them and that the full force of the federal family is going to be behind them.”

Hi-Tech Manufacturing boosts Fremont’s Economy

By Jack Alcorn

Photos source Applied Materials, Inc.

Fremont is home to the largest concentration of advanced manufacturers in the Bay Area. The 900 manufacturing and hardware companies located in Fremont retain some of the foremost expertise in electronics, bio industries and automotive technology. Meta, Tesla, Apple, Western Digital, Boehringer and ThermoFisher are some of the multi-billion-dollar giants operating in Fremont.

The Bayside city is known for its diversified globally connected economy where businesses find success and residents are afforded a high quality of life. Nestled in the eastern part of Silicon Valley, Fremont continues to evolve and grow. As tech companies mature, they often expand or relocate to Fremont to access the real estate and skilled workforce they need to grow. Fremont has the largest industrial real estate inventory in the region, providing highly sought after large-format space for the Valley’s most innovative companies.

The Fremont Economic Development Advisory Commission (EDAC) is a citizen commission appointed by Fremont City Council. EDAC promotes and facilitates economic development in the City of Fremont and enhances and supports current businesses in the city. Current EDAC envdeavors include completion of the Fremont Bank Headquarters Building on Fremont Blvd.; launching Restaurant Week; and ground breaking for Applied Materials Wafer Fabrication Plant, a cutting-edge computer chip manufacturing process.

Fremont’s Economic Development Director Donovan Lazaro said, “Advanced industries are blossoming from continued investment in key growth areas of the city.” Major development activity is increasing in the Warm Springs Innovation District, Ardenwood, Bayside, and Downtown/City Center.

EDAC advises Fremont City Council on economic development projects and identifies relevant issues before the council makes final decisions. Meetings are coordinated by Fremont’s Economic Development Department. The Department provides business development, marketing, promotion and other services to present and potential Fremont business associates.

The nine-member Fremont Economic Development Advisory Commission conducts business quarterly, in a public forum. The eight current members are recruiting one more to complete the citizen commission. EDAC members are appointed by the mayor, subject to the approval of a majority of the council. For a commission member application visit the www.fremont.gov/government/departments/city-clerk/boards-commissions-committees.

Fremont Unified School District Board Meeting

January 11, 2023

Consent Calendar:

• Continue holding meetings via videoconference
• Approve the Second Quarter 2022-2023 Williams Uniform Complaint Report.
• Authorize the Superintendent to join the Asian Pacific Islander School Board Members

Association (APISBMA).

• Approve study trips: Irvington High School; Washington High School; Centerville Junior High.
• Authorize additional funding for non-public school /non-public agencies for 2022-2023 school year.
• Accept listed gifts to Fremont Unified School District.
• Approve the Budget Development calendar for the 2023-24 School Year.
• Approve the second reading of new Board Policy, Electronic Signatures.
• Authorize contracts and purchases over $25,360.
• Approve personnel actions.
• Approve recommended athletic coaches for winter 2022.

President Vivek Prasad                       Aye

Yajing Zhang                                      Aye

Larry Sweeney                                    Aye

Dianne Jones                                       Aye

Newark Develops Master Plan for Broadband

Submitted by City of Newark

A Broadband Master Plan is needed for the City of Newark to ensure sufficient infrastructure is in place to provide robust broadband services to all residents and businesses. The focus of the plan will be to develop solutions for improved broadband services to unserved and underserved areas. The master plan scope of work will include development of an inventory of existing fiber optic infrastructure, identification of unserved and underserved areas, identification of gaps in infrastructure assets, and development of phased improvements to address short-term and long-term needs.

The Broadband Master Plan is currently in the development phase with a request for proposals anticipated to be released in early 2023. The master plan would create the strategies necessary to position the city with a strong broadband presence in order to attract, retain and serve residents and businesses. For additional updates in the near future visit newark.org/residents/broadband-master-plan.

Newark City Council

January 12, 2023

Public Comment

• Resident thanked City and City maintenance crew for attending to falling tree within the hour of calling for assistance.

Consent Calendar

• Approve audited demands.
• Authorize continued remote teleconferenced meeting of the legislative bodies of the City of Newark for the 30-day period beginning January 12.
• Approve the first amendment to the contractual services agreement with Orion Security.
• Authorize the first amendment to the contractual services agreement with 4Leaf Inc.to provide temporary professional code enforcement services.

Other Business

• Economic development update informational report from Anne Stedler.

City Council Matters

• Council thanked the City’s maintenance crew and department for their services during the winter rainstorms.

Mayor Michael Hannon          Aye

Vice Mayor Sucy Collazo       Aye

Luis Freitas                             Aye

Mike Bucci                              Aye

Matthew Jorgens                     Aye

Santa Clara Valley Water District

Board of Directors Meeting

January 10, 2023

Board of Directors

• Adopt a resolution setting the time and place of regular meetings of the Santa Clara Valley Water District Board of Directors. Passed 6 – 1 (Nay, Eisenberg).

Water Utility Enterprise

• Approve the Design-Build Agreement with Kiewit Infrastructure West Co for the Coyote Pumping Plant Adjustable Speed Drive Replacement Project. Unanimously approved.

Assistant Chief Executive Officer

• Authorize acquisition of a real property interest from Janice M. Schultz for the Anderson Dam Tunnel Project as part of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Order Compliance Project. Unanimously approved.

Consent Calendar

• Set time and place of a public hearing for the Santa Clara Valley Water District Board of Directors to determine the necessity for directors to be compensated for up to 15 days per calendar month and to consider directors’ compensation for calendar year 2023.
• Accept the CEO Bulletin for the weeks of December 9, 2022 – January 5, 2023.

Chair John Varela                   Aye

Jim Beall                                 Aye

Rebecca Eisenberg                  Aye

Barbara Keegan                       Aye

Richard Santos                        Aye

Nai Hsueh                               Aye

Tony Estremera                       Aye

Union City City Council Meeting

January 10, 2023 

Consent Calendar

• Authorize remote teleconferenced meetings of the legislative bodies of the city of Union City for the 30-day period beginning January 10.
• Accept a Hazard Mitigation Grant Program award from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for the final design and construction of the Ruggieri Senior Center generator upgrade project.
• Amend the city’s Classification & Compensation Plan for unrepresented Police Department positions.
• Award a contract to Gillig, LLC for the purchase of fourteen battery electric thirty-five foot heavy-duty fixed-route buses through the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services.

Mayor Carol Dutra-Vernaci                Aye

Gary Singh                                          Aye

Scott Sakakihara                                  Aye

Jeff Wang                                            Aye

Jaime Patino                                        Aye

Alameda County Fire Department Log

Submitted by ACFD

Tuesday, January 17

• At 8:40 a.m. firefighters joined members of the Fremont Fire Department and Cal Fire in helping crews evacuate 225 passengers from a westbound ACE commuter train that was stopped by a 100-foot mudslide that blocked train tracks in Niles Canyon near Sunol. A second train arrived to transport passengers back to Pleasanton. No injuries were reported.

Multiple arrests made in auto theft crime ring

Submitted by Newark Police Department

Several suspects have been arrested by Newark Police Department (NPD) detectives in connection with a high-end auto theft crime ring affecting Newark and several other Bay Area cities.

The arrests follow a multi-month investigation by NPD in conjunction with San Pablo Police Department. The two agencies began to work together after a shooting occurred in San Pablo on November 26, 2022 that involved a vehicle suspected to be part of the theft ring.

In a January 20 news release, NPD said several felony arrest and search warrants related to the investigation were served at about 6:05 a.m. Thursday, January 19 in a multi-agency operation in Newark, Union City, Hayward, Oakland, and San Leandro. Three suspects were taken into custody, without incident:

• Axel Martinez, 21, of Newark was arrested on suspicion of possessing stolen property and on various weapons related charges, including possession of a “ghost gun.” He was booked at Santa Rita Jail.
• Alexander Echeverria, 20, of Newark, was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder and a variety of vehicle theft related charges.
• Jose Flores Torres, 26, of Union City, was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit murder and a variety of vehicle theft related charges. Torres and Echeverria were booked into the Martinez Detention Facility.

The multi-agency investigation spanned several counties and resulted in the recovery of 17 stolen vehicles, 12 firearms, two ballistic body armor vests, thousands of rounds of ammunition, including armor piercing rounds, and auto-theft technology and equipment.

The investigation is continuing and police are asking that anyone who has information, or who believes they were victimized, to send an email to Newark Police Lead Detective Andrew Musantry at An*************@ne****.org or call (510) 578-4956. Information also can be left anonymously at (510) 578-4965.

BART Police Log

Submitted by BART PD and Les Mensinger

Saturday, January 14

• At 6:55 a.m. a man identified by police as Lamont Abbit, 43, of Oakley was stopped at Warm Springs/South Fremont station on suspicion of fare evasion. A record check showed a $10,000 warrant. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
• At 7:04 a.m. a man identified by police as Mustafa Jalali, 42, of Dublin was arrested at San Leandro station on suspicion of lewd conduct and providing false identification to an officer. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
• At 9:06 a.m. a man identified by police as Shawn An
  derson, 52, of Berkeley was arrested at Bay Fair station in San Leandro on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon. He was issued a prohibition order and booked into Santa Rita Jail.

Sunday, January 15

• At 6:15 p.m. a man identified by police as Satchel Avando, 27, of Oakland was arrested at Hayward station on suspicion of unlawful possession of tear gas, battery on an officer, resisting an officer and probation violation. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

Tuesday, January 17

• At 9:00 a.m. a man identified by police as Mohammad Alnajjar, 39, of Hayward was arrested at Bay Fair station in San Leandro on suspicion of sexual battery. He was issued a prohibition order and booked into Santa Rita Jail.

Local firefighter arrested on alleged charges of child pornography

Submitted by City of San Leandro

Chuck Harris, a firefighter/paramedic with the Alameda County Fire Department serving in San Leandro, has been arrested on alleged charges of possession of child pornography. Harris, a resident of Greeley Hill in Mariposa County, was arrested in San Leandro on Sunday, January 8, by the Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office, the Central California and Silicon Valley Internet Crimes Against Children Task Forces, and the FBI.

“These allegations, if proven true, are deeply concerning and undermine the public’s trust in our public safety service,” noted San Leandro Mayor Juan Gonzalez. “We will work closely with our partner agencies to ensure that justice is served. Each day, our community places its trust in our public safety staff, and we absolutely understand the anger and disappointment caused by the arrest of a first responder.”

Harris is on paid administrative leave per his collective bargaining agreement as an employee of the Alameda County Fire Department. The city will provide additional information when possible and in accordance with all laws.

Fremont Police Log

Submitted by Monica Leon, Fremont PD

Sunday, January 15

• Officers responded to a report about a robbery in a pharmacy at the Fremont Hub shopping center. A person took several items and brandished a pointed object at an employee then left the business. Officers arrived and found the suspect walking on Fremont Boulevard. After a short foot pursuit, the suspect, described by police as an adult Fremont resident, was caught and arrested.

Monday, January 16

• Officers responded to a report about a shooting near Central Avenue and Argyle Road that occurred the night before. The person reporting the incident heard several gunshots overnight and reviewed video surveillance cameras later and saw two vehicles driving by and frying shots into a vacant residence across the street. No injuries were reported; the case is under investigation.

Tuesday, January 17

• When officers tried to make a vehicle enforcement stop, the driver sped away westbound on Stevenson Boulevard near I-880. Moments later, the vehicle crashed into a traffic light pole on the northwest side of the intersection of Stevenson Boulevard and Boyce Road. Arriving officers found two adults trapped inside the vehicle. First-responders then arrived and took both people to trauma centers for treatment of major injuries. The case has been referred to the District Attorney’s Officer for possible charges.

Hayward Police Log

Submitted by Hayward PD

Sunday, January 8

• At 6:30 a.m. a male was inside his vehicle near the 1000 block of Skokie Lane when an unknown male approached and brandished a gun in his waistband and ordered the victim out of his car. The suspect fled the scene in the victim’s vehicle. The case is being investigated as a carjacking.
• At 11:23 a.m. officers spotted an occupied stolen vehicle near the intersection of West A Street and South Garden Avenue. They made a vehicle stop, took the driver into custody and recovered the vehicle.

Monday, January 9

• At 1:14 p.m. officers responded to a burglary report on the 20000 block of Hesperian Blvd. Officers located the suspect nearby and took him into custody. They also recovered a firearm and suspected narcotics during the incident.

Saturday, January 14

• At 9:21 p.m. officers found an occupied stolen vehicle parked near the intersection of Cliffwood and Bolero avenues. Officers took the driver into custody and recovered the vehicle.

Milpitas Police Log

Submitted by Milpitas PD

Friday, January 6

• At 10:59 a.m. officers responded to a disturbance report on the 800 block of S. Main St. The suspect, a 46-year-old Milpitas man, intentionally hit the victim with his vehicle causing minor injuries. The suspect fled the area before officers arrived, but at about 6:30 p.m. officers found the suspect near Hammond Avenue. The suspect did not cooperate with officers and started to fight with them. He was taken into custody and placed in a WRAP restraint device and booked into Santa Clara County Main Jail on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon.

San Leandro Police Log

Submitted by San Leandro PD

Sunday, January 15

• At about 9:30 a.m. officers were called to an apartment on the 2700 block of Marina Blvd. where they learned a woman had been assaulted. Upon arrival, officers found a 24-year-old woman lying in bed with significant trauma to her head and torso. She died at the scene. Homicide detectives arrived to interview witnesses and examine surveillance video. They determined the victim’s boyfriend was responsible and later tracked him to a San Francisco address and made an arrest. The suspect, identified by police as Chataron Rose, 23, lived in the apartment with the victim. He is in custody and awaiting arraignment.

Shooting suspect arrested after standoff

Submitted by Lt. Tya M. Modeste, Alameda County Sheriff’s Office

After about an hour of negotiations with Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Detectives, the suspect in a January 8 shooting near Hayward that left a man wounded, was taken into custody in
Oakland where he was stopped in his vehicle.

ACSO officials said Edward Johnson, was wanted in connection with a shooting on January 8 in the 18000 block of Robscott Ave. in unincorporated Hayward in which a male was left with two non-life-threatening gunshot wounds. Over the next several days, ACSO investigators tracked Johnson and eventually found him inside his vehicle on Dimond Avenue near MacArthur Boulevard in Oakland.

Johnson initially refused to exit his vehicle, but after negotiations with deputies, he discarded a firearm which matched the caliber of the one used in the Hayward shooting, and surrendered. He was taken into custody and there were no injuries. Charges are pending from the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office.

Owners of Union City company face wage theft charges

Submitted by Alameda County District Attorney’s Office

Officials from Alameda County District Attorney’s Office have charged the owners of a Union City-based security company with stealing more than $800,000 in wages from their employees.

In a January 20 news release, the DA’s office said an investigation showed the owners of Alfa Private Security Services did not properly pay about 87 of their employees for both regular and overtime hours worked. The investigation, which started in December 2021 also involved the State Labor Commissioner’s Office, the California Department of Insurance, and the Department of Labor.

Additionally, the investigation showed unregistered ghost guns and firearms were provided to employees, some of whom did not have a license to carry guns. Ghost gun is a term referring to privately-made or homemade guns without serial numbers which are often untraceable.

According to the DA’s office, a forensic audit of the company’s insurance policy based on information found in the investigation also showed the company made misrepresentations on its policy from 2017-2021, causing a financial loss of $88,000.

The two owners each were charged with theft of wages from employees; conspiracy to commit a crime and insurance fraud. One of the owners also was charged with possession of an assault weapon, possession of a short barrel rifle, and possession of an expandable baton.

Both owners have been arraigned and will return to Superior Court in Oakland on February 14 where they are expected to make a plea.

Equal access to parks

As an environmental organization dedicated to promoting access to nature for all, we are deeply troubled by the current policies regarding park access at Coyote Hills and Mission Peak. In particular, we are concerned about the city’s ban on most on-street parking near Coyote Hills, which creates a barrier for many residents who may not have the means to afford the $5 per day fee to visit the park.

We believe that it is the responsibility of city officials to provide equal access to nature for all residents, regardless of their financial means. Limiting access to Coyote Hills Regional Park around sunrise is a clear violation of this principle and denies many city residents the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of this area.

As a case in point, the fact that the Dumbarton campground doesn’t open until 8:00 a.m. while the main park entrance on Patterson Road opens at 5:00 a.m. denies early-morning visitors the opportunity to enjoy activities such as bird-watching, sunrise viewing and meditation. We urge the City of Fremont to work in partnership with the park district to ensure that our natural and cultural resources are managed in a way that is inclusive and welcoming for all.

Free parks and wildlife viewing areas are essential amenities for the residents of Fremont, Union City, Menlo Park, and Palo Alto. The fact that parking at the Dumbarton Quarry campground costs $5 per vehicle, while parking is free on Commerce Drive, creates a barrier for many visitors who may not have the resources to afford the fee.

In the face of the current flood emergency at Coyote Hills, it is more important than ever that the city and the district work together to protect park access. Together, we can strive to keep our parklands healthy, safe, and accessible for recreational activities and environmental education. The City of Fremont must take responsibility to ensure that all residents have equal access to nature, and we urge them to take immediate action to rectify this issue by lifting the no-stopping zones near Coyote Hills.

William Yragui

Co-founder Mission Peak Conservancy

Fremont

Honor Roll

DeSales University, Pennsylvania

Fall 2022 Dean’s List

• Diya Stephen of Fremont

Concordia University, Nebraska

Fall 2022 Honors List

• Abby Dueck of Newark

The Honor Society of Omicron Delta Kappa

New circle member, Arizona State University

• Frank Morales of Newark

Southern New Hampshire University

Fall 2022 Dean’s List

• Katie Switzer of Hayward
• Brejonne Clinton of Fremont
• Amanda Golos of Milpitas

Fall 2022 President’s List

• Hassan Bokhari of Fremont
• Mariam Omari of Hayward
• Trevor Schofield of Castro Valley
• Ryan Santos of Milpitas
• Cody Cook of Milpitas

Hayward Area Recreation and Park District Board of Directors welcomes a new Director and Board President

Submitted by Nicole Espinoza Roa

H.A.R.D. Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Mr. Rick J. Hatcher was elected by the Board as the new Board President for 2023.

“Growing up with H.A.R.D., I know it is one of our community’s true gems. With the diverse breadth of programs, facilities, and open space, I am truly honored to serve as Board President. The upcoming year will bring new, inclusive programs, and upgrades to parks and facilities.”

Mr. Hatcher has been a Board Member with H.A.R.D. since 2015. The past few years have been very exciting, with the successful passage of the $250 million-dollar Measure F1 Parks Bond and the construction of several major capital projects.

At its December 15, 2022 special meeting, H.A.R.D. Board of Directors also elected Director Paul Hodges, Jr. as Board Vice President, and Director Peter Rosen as Board Secretary. They are joined on the H.A.R.D. five-person Board by Director Louis M. Andrade and Director Sara Lamnin. The district is excited to welcome Director Sara Lamnin to the Board.

The district expresses gratitude to Carol A. Pereira who is retiring from the Board of Directors after 40 years of dedicated service to H.A.R.D. and the residents of the district.

www.HaywardRec.org

New members join park district board

Submitted by Dave Mason

Olivia Sanwong and John Mercurio, the two newest members to join the East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors, were welcomed to their new positions during a “Passing of the Gavel” swearing-in ceremony during the board’s January 17 meeting.

Additionally, Colin Coffey and Dennis Waespi were sworn for their second and third terms respectively. Congressman Mark DeSaulnier and veteran park district employee Karen McClendon delivered the oath of office.

In a ceremonial “passing of the gavel”, outgoing board president Coffey handed the leadership role to new board president Waespi, who was first elected to the board in 2014 and previously served as board president in 2018. Other board officers for 2023 include Vice President Elizabeth Echols, Treasurer Ellen Corbett and Secretary Dee Rosario.

For information about the East Bay Regional Park District, visit ebparks.org.

East Bay real estate professionals honored

Submitted by David Stark

Officials from Bay East Association of REALTORS® recently announced the winners of the organization’s highest honors awards for their achievements during 2022.

Winners, announced January 17, include:

REALTOR® of the Year

• Bill Espinola, Park View Realty, Hayward.

Rookie of the Year

• Glen Riggs, Elation Real Estate, Pleasanton.

Platinum Affiliate of the Year

• Christian Carr, Loan Depot, Walnut Creek.

Outstanding Leader

• Nancie Allen, Compass, Fremont.

John Deadrich Distinguished Service Award

• Sandi Gomes, Pride Properties, Livermore.

Good Neighbor of the Year

• Diane Johansen, Re/MAX Accord, Castro Valley.

Bay East Association of REALTORS® is a professional trade association serving more than 6,000 residential and commercial real estate professionals throughout the San Francisco Bay Area.

Gladiator men’s basketball win

Submitted by Chabot College Athletics

The Chabot men’s basketball team earned an 82-70 victory over Foothill Junior College on Monday, January 9 in a Coast-North Conference rescheduled game. The teams were supposed to meet on January 4 to open conference play, but the game was rescheduled due to the recent storms.

Zach Broadous led the Gladiators with 23 points and six rebounds, and David Hector had a double-double with 19 points and 11 rebounds. Diggy Winbush added 19 points and three assists, and David Ogunleye powered in eight points and 10 rebounds.

Chabot (8-8, 1-1) fell to defending state champion City College of San Francisco 101-81 on Friday, January 6, in what turned out to be the teams’ conference openers, when Ogunleye had a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds, to go with four blocks. Jaiden Rivera was solid with 14 points and eight boards.

Lorenzo Abellar and Pawilos Habtom came off the bench to score 10 points apiece.

Pioneers come up short

Submitted by CSUEB Athletics Communications

The Cal State East Bay women’s basketball team dropped a CCAA matchup on Thursday, January 19 evening at The Sports Center, 72-62. Grace Campbell scored 26 points, which was a Cal State Easy Bay career-high for her.

The opening quarter was fairly even. To finish the quarter, the Pioneers trailed by only one point, after Payton Sterkmade a layup with four seconds remaining. The Cougars led 13-12 after 10 minutes of action.

In the second quarter alone, Campbell scored 12 of Cal State East Bay’s 19 points. However, CSUSM outscored the Pioneers by a point for the second straight quarter, and took a 33-31 lead into halftime.

Although the Cougars scored the first eight points of the third quarter, and led by as many as nine, a late run in the quarter brought the Pioneers within a point heading into the final quarter. CSUSM led 50-49.

With 6:06 remaining in the fourth quarter, Taylor Linzie made a layup to even the game at 56-56. But the Cougars broke the tie less than a minute later on a 3-pointer from Dynnah Buckner. The 3-pointer started a 16-6 run to finish the game for the Cougars, who went on to a 72-62 win.

• Campbell went 10-for-18 from the floor and 2-for-3 from the free throw line, scoring a team-high 26 points. Four of Campbell’s 10 field goals were from beyond the arc.
• With seven rebounds each were Sterk and Michaella Dean.
• Campbell and Kelsey Valencia had one block and one steal each.
• For the Cougars, Buckner scored a team-high 22 points.

Cal State East Bay head coach Jenny Thigpin following Thursday’s loss, “We played a solid game on the road tonight. Proud of our team effort on the defensive end. We came up short but it something to build upon going into our next game.”

Fremont Area Writers Starts 2023 Speaker Series

Submitted by Knuti VanHoven

Fremont Area Writers will lead off its 2023 Speaker Series at 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 28 with a presentation by Tanya Egan Gibson. Gibson is a freelance editor, writing coach, and the author of the young adult novel How to Buy a Love of Reading. Her FAW presentation is titled “How to Keep Your Readers Invested”

What does that mean? “As writers, we all care deeply about our storylines, characters and the plot twists that we’ve labored over for years” Gibson explained. “But we can’t assume that our readers will love our creations just because wedo. We have to gain their interest and then work to keep it, all the way to our last page.”

Gibson will teach her FAW Zoom Audience the vital tricks of the trade: how to re-read your own manuscript and weed out “the boring parts” (everyone has them); how to use beta readers to your best advantage, and why an inability to sell your novel might be more than a “pitch problem”—all with the goal of creating and keeping your readers invested in a truly engaging manuscript.

To get your link to this event, send an email request to scottfrombayside@yahoo.com with  ‘FAW Zoom” as your subject line. You should receive the link the day before or the day of the meeting. Zoom participation is FREE to everyone who loves good writing.

For more information, go to the Fremont Area Writers website at https://cwc-fremontareawriters.org, visit www.tanyaegangibson.com, or read the synopsis of Gibson’s book on Goodreads.

How to Keep Your Readers Invested

Saturday, Jan 28

2 p.m.

Via Zoom

Request link from scottfrombayside@yahoo.com

Newark’s effortless win

By April Ramos

Newark Memorial and Mission San Jose’s Varsity boys’ soccer team met on the Newark Memorial field Wednesday, January 18.

From the moment of kickoff, the Newark Cougars had control of the ball, keeping it near the Mission Warrior’s goalie box. The Warriors’ defense was alert on the ball and kept a man-on defensive strategy.

Ten minutes into the first half, Newark set-up a corner kick. The ball was passed to the center and kicked into the goal with a low center shot, getting the Cougars their first goal. The Cougars got lucky again with another corner kick, this time with a high shot into the net, making the score 2-0. Though the Warriors’ kept their defensive wall up, the Cougars scored two more goals before halftime.

Quickly into the second half Newark got a deep pass from midfield and Cougar’s forward takes one touch on the ball getting it over the keeper’s head and rolls into the net.

Mission had moments of dominance and took the opportunity to take a shot on goal, but was blocked. They kept their momentum and stayed on the offensive trying another low shot, ultimately missing again.

Although the Warrior’s defense had improved from the first half, two more goals got past their keeper making the score 7-0. This game marked Newark’s seventh game winning streak.

Kaiser Permanente Medi-Cal plans recognized for quality

Submitted by Antonia Ehlers, Kaiser Permanente

A December 2022 report from the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) gives a top rating for quality to Kaiser Permanente Northern California’s Medi-Cal health plan.

Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid health care program, which covers a variety of medical services for children and adults with limited income and resources. To promote better health outcomes and preventive services, the DHCS requires Medi-Cal plans to report annually on a set of quality measures associated with children’s preventive services, women’s health preventive services, chronic medical conditions, and behavioral health conditions.

Kaiser Permanente’s Northern and Southern California Medi-Cal health plans were the only plans among more than two dozen in the state that achieved established quality levels for more than 90% of the measures. It is also the only Medicare health plan in California to receive a 5-star rating, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ 2023 Medicare Star Ratings.

Twinkle, twinkle fading stars: Hiding in our brighter skies

By Christina Larson

Associated Press Science Writer

Every year, the night sky grows brighter, and the stars look dimmer. A new study that analyzes data from more than 50,000 amateur stargazers finds that artificial lighting is making the night sky about 10% brighter each year.

That’s a much faster rate of change than scientists had previously estimated looking at satellite data. The research, which includes data from 2011 to 2022, published Jan. 19 in the journal Science.

“We are losing, year by year, the possibility to see the stars,” said Fabio Falchi, a physicist at the University of Santiago de Compostela, who was not involved in the study. “If you can still see the dimmest stars, you are in a very dark place. But if you see only the brightest ones, you are in a very light-polluted place,” he said.

As cities expand and put up more lights, “skyglow” or “artificial twilight,” as the study authors call it, becomes more intense.

The 10% annual change “is a lot bigger than I expected — something you’ll notice clearly within a lifetime,” said Christopher Kyba, a study co-author and physicist at the German Research Centre for Geosciences in Potsdam.

Kyba and his colleagues gave this example: A child is born where 250 stars are visible on a clear night. By the time that child turns 1
8, only 100 stars are still visible. “This is real pollution, affecting people and wildlife,” said Kyba, who said he hoped that policymakers would do more to curb light pollution. Some localities have set limits.

The study data from amateur stargazers in the nonprofit Globe at Night project was collected in a similar fashion. Volunteers look for the constellation Orion — remember the three stars of his belt — and match what they see in the night sky to a series of charts showing an increasing number of surrounding stars.

Prior studies of artificial lighting, which used satellite images of the Earth at night, had estimated the annual increase in sky brightness to be about 2% a year. But the satellites used aren’t able to detect light with wavelengths toward the blue end of the spectrum — including the light emitted by energy-efficient LED bulbs.

More than half of the new outdoor lights installed in the United States in the past decade have been LED lights, according to the researchers. The satellites are also better at detecting light that scatters upward, like a spotlight, than light that scatters horizontally, like the glow of an illuminated billboard at night, Kyba said.

Skyglow disrupts human circadian rhythms, as well as other forms of life, said Georgetown biologist Emily Williams, who was not part of the study. “Migratory songbirds normally use starlight to orient where they are in the sky at night,” she said. “And when sea turtle babies hatch, they use light to orient toward the ocean — light pollution is a huge deal for them.”

Part of what’s being lost is a universal human experience, said Falchi, the physicist at University of Santiago de Compostela. “The night sky has been, for all the generations before ours, a source of inspiration for art, science, literature,” he said.

Grocery store with items made from plastic opening

By Mike Householder

Associated press

A grocery store that features thousands of products made entirely of discarded plastic opened to the public Jan. 17. The Plastic Bag Store is a custom-built public art installation and film experience designed to encourage visitors to think more about the enduring impact of single-use plastics.

The store in Ann Arbor, Michigan, features shelves stocked with items such as meat, eggs and cakes — all made from single-use plastics taken from streets and garbage dumps. The store at times during the day will be transformed into a stage for a series of short films in which puppetry and handmade sets are used to tell a story of the dangers of plastic waste and the consequences for future generations. As the show’s tagline puts it: “Part installation. Part film. All bags.”

Plastic bags are created by fossil fuels and often end up as waste in landfills and oceans. Americans toss out 100 billion plastic bags per year, according to Worldwatch Institute, a Washington, D.C.-based environmental research organization.

Theater and film director Robin Frohardt is the driving creative force behind the Plastic Bag Store. “I got the idea many years ago after watching someone bag and double-bag and triple-bag my groceries,” Frohardt said Jan. 17. “I just was sort of struck by how ridiculous how much packaging is involved in our everyday lives. And it just seemed so absurd. I just thought, ‘Maybe I could make a project that’s even more absurd.’”

The store’s shelves are lined with items whose names are intended to mimic real-life products such as “Yucky Shards” (Lucky Charms), “Bitz of Plastic Crap” (Ritz Crackers), “Bagemite” (Vegemite) and “Filthydelphia roll” (Philadelphia roll). One product Frohardt didn’t have to alter was baguettes, “because it was already in the name,” she said with a laugh.

The Plastic Bag Store, which runs through Feb. 5, is presented via a partnership between the University of Michigan Museum of Art, University Musical Society, University of Michigan Arts Initiative and Graham Sustainability Institute. Tickets are $30 for general admission. Student tickets cost $12. The show premiered in Times Square in 2020. It since has made stops in Los Angeles; Chicago; Austin, Texas; and Adelaide, Australia.

“I hope that we can continue to tour this project and bring it to different communities,” said Frohardt, who is based in New York. “My dream would be that this project becomes irrelevant.But it probably won’t be.”

10 librarians nationwide receive I Love My Librarian awards

By Hillel Italie

Associated Press National Writer

Some are fighting local efforts to censor books, while others are focused on cultural programs, education about Ukraine or helping people buy groceries: These are this year’s winners of the I Love My Librarian Award.

Based everywhere from New York City to Carencro, Louisiana, the winners share a common desire to work closely with their patrons.

“Even in these unprecedented times and as our nation’s library workers face historic levels of intimidation and harassment due to an ongoing wave of book censorship, librarians continue to empower their patrons, teach critical literacy skills, promote inclusion in their space and collections, and provide vital services for their communities,” American Library Association President Lessa Kanani’opua Pelayo-Lozada said in a statement on Jan. 17.

Each of the 10 honorees will receive a $5,000 cash prize and a $750 travel stipend to attend the library association’s LibLearnX event later this month in New Orleans. The awards are based on nominations from library users around the country and made possible by a grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York and support from the New York Public Library.

Winners include Kathryn Blackmer Reyes of the San Jose State University library in San Jose, California, cited for how she promoted untold stories by Asian Americans, Native Americans and Hispanics among others. At the Highlands County Library System in Sebring, Florida, Vikki Brown successfully pressed for a grant to set up a mobile library for the rural population.

Cara Chance of the Lafayette Public Library, in Carencro, Louisiana, has battled efforts by the library’s Board of Control to restricts books with LGBTQ themes. Tara Coleman, based at Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas, has led a campuswide common reading program; and David Ettinger, at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., is working with students on their research skills.

At Childs Elementary School, in Bloomington, Indiana, Julie Marie Frye is helping kids learn more about Ukraine in the wake of the Russian invasion. Lauren Ginsberg-DeVilbiss, of the Wright Brothers School in New York City, is helping students grow a community garden. Students at Christ Church Episcopal School, in Greenville, South Carolina, are receiving help from librarian Jamie Gregory in learning about censorship and the meaning of intellectual freedom.

Roseanna Gulisano, at Highbridge School in New York City,
has worked to raise money for more books for students who can’t afford to buy them, along with funds to buy food and clothing. At the Evanston Public Library in Evanston, Illinois, Elacsha Madison has focused on teen programs in marginalized communities.

The awards were established in 2008. This year, judges at the library association chose the winners from more than 1,500 nominations.

Continuing Events:

 

Tuesdays

Bilingual (English/Spanish) Tiny Tot Story Time

9:30 am -11:00 am

Kinder readiness class for 0-5 years old

Union City Family Center

725 Whipple Rd, Union City

(510) 476-2770

bit.ly/3GaTamI

Tuesdays

Practice Your English–Tuesday Chat! R

4:00 pm -5:00 pm

Improve your English by talking with native speakers!

bit.ly/3TH2keU

jl**@ac*******.org

Wednesdays

Zumba Gold $

11:30 am -12:30 pm

Workout while dancing

Age Well Center at South Fremont

47111 Mission Falls Ct, Fremont

(510) 742-7529

bit.ly/3rAEdSC

Wednesdays

Tropics Bingo

7:00 pm

Flash games

Tropics Mobile Home Park

33000 Almaden Blvd, Union City

(510) 471-8550

the-tropics.net

Thursdays

Chair Yoga R

10:00 am -11:00 am

Consists of breathing and stretching techniques

Age Well Center at South Fremont

47111 Mission Falls Ct, Fremont

(510) 742-7529

bit.ly/3rAEdSC

Thursdays

International Folk Dancing in Mandarin R$

11:30 am -12:50 pm

Age Well Center at South Fremont

47111 Mission Falls Ct, Fremont

(510) 742-7529

bit.ly/3rAEdSC

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

Last Thursdays

The Peaceful Poets

5:30 pm -8:00 pm

Writers & appreciators’ meet

Milpitas Public Library

160 N Main St, Milpitas

(408) 262-1171

sccld.org

Fridays and Saturdays

Telescope Viewings

7:30 pm -10:30 pm

Experience the awe & wonder of the universe

Chabot Space & Science Center

10000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland

(510) 336-7300

chabotspace.org

Saturdays

Laugh Track City$

8:00 pm

Improvised games and scenes

Made Up Theatre

4000 Bay St. suite B, Fremont

(510) 573-3633

madeuptheatre.com

Please show proof of vaccination

 

Second Saturdays

Alviso Adobe Tours$

1:00 pm

Docent-led tours and video presentation

Alviso Adobe Park

2087 Alviso Adobe Ct, Milpitas

(408) 586-3210

bit.ly/3Wcmgau

Saturdays and Sundays

Discovery On Demand

10:30 am -3:30 pm

Explore, investigate, & craft to satisfy your natural curiosities

Coyote Hills Visitors Center

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd, Fremont

(510) 544-3220

bit.ly/3UGfdGr

 

Mondays

Advanced Math + Science Tutoring

5:30 pm -7:00 pm

Free high school & college-level tutoring

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave, Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

aclibrary.org

ca**********@ac*******.org

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, & Fridays

Showers for Adults 55+R

1:00 pm -2:30 pm

One shower per day

Age Well Center at South Fremont

47111 Mission Falls Ct, Fremont

(510) 742-7529

bit.ly/3rAEdSC

 

Saturdays, November 12 – February 5

13 Weekly (Grief Share) sessions R

9:00 am -10:30 am

Prince of peace church

38451 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

(510) 793-3366

popfremont.org

First Thursdays, December 1 – April 6

Bill Savings Assistance with Spectrum

3:00 pm -5:00 pm

In-person assistance on completing the 2022 LIHEAP &/or LIHWAP application forms

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont

(510) 745-1400

bit.ly/3gWSjfq

Wednesdays, December 7 – November 22

Qi Gong Meditation & Exercise Classes

2:00 pm -4:00 pm

Relieve stress & anxiety by joining Falun Dafa classes

Milpitas Public Library

160 N Main St, Milpitas

(408) 262-1171

sccld.org

Thursdays, December 8 – June 8

Cover to Cover Book Discussion

1:00 pm -2:30 pm

Newark Public Library

37055 Newark Blvd., Newark

(510) 284-0675

bit.ly/3DyAJaM

First and third Fridays, December 16 – Jun 16

Mobile Food Distribution

10:30 am -11:30 am

Available for first 80 families

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont

(510) 745-1400

aclibrary.org/locations/FRM

Please bring your own reusable bag, line up starts at 9:30

Wednesdays, December 28 – January 25

Folding Books R

12:00 pm -1:00 pm

Used books makeover project

Newark Public Library

37055 Newark Blvd, Newark

(510) 284-0675

bit.ly/3DyAJaM

Sundays, January 1 – February 26

Snake Talk

2:30 pm -3:00 pm

Discover the importance of snakes to the ecosystem

Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center

1895 Geary Rd, Sunol

(510) 544-3245

ebparks.org/parks/sunol

Tuesdays, January 3 – May 30

Baby Bouncers Lapsit

11:30 am -11:45 am

Nursery rhymes, lap bounce, songs, & picture books for 12 months & younger

Milpitas Public Library

160 N Main St, Milpitas

(408) 262-1171

sccld.org

Wednesdays, January 4 – January 25

Little Listeners Storytime

11:00 am -11:45 am

In-person story time with, songs, & other fun for preschooler

San Lorenzo Library

395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo

(510) 284-0640

aclibrary.org/locations/SLZ

Saturdays, January 7 – January 28

Story walk along the Marsh

3:00 pm -3:30 pm

Enjoy the stroll with stories, songs, and movement

Coyote Hills Visitors Center

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd, Fremont

(510) 544-3220

bit.ly/3UGfdGr

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, January 13 – January 29

Matilda The Musical R$

Fri, Sat: 7 pm

Sun: 2 pm

Smith Center

Ohlone College

43600 Mission Blvd, Fremont

bit.ly/3Zeges0

ASL interpreted performance on January 27

Tuesdays, January 17 – May 16

Read to a Dog

4:00 pm -5:00 pm

Come & read to the trained therapy dogs

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont

(510) 745-1400

aclibrary.org/locations/FRM

Mask required for 2+

Thursday, January 19 – Thursday, April 20

Health Services for People Experiencing Homelessness

1:30 pm -3:00 pm

Get help with checkup, medications, appointments, referral, food assistance, & more

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont

(510) 745-1400

aclibrary.org/locations/FRM

Thursday – Saturday, January 19 – March 18

Tree Talk

During gallery hours

Art works & poems by Dotti Cichon & Nelly Capra

Art reception: January 27 at 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Olive Hyde Art Gallery

123 Washington Blvd, Fremont

(510) 791-4357

olivehydeartguild.org

Fridays, January 20 – January 6, 2024

Knit & Crochet Circle

2:00 pm -4:00 pm

Come and learn knitting and crocheting

Milpitas Public Library

160 N Main St, Milpitas

(408) 262-1171

sccld.org

Last Wednesdays, January 25 – April 26

Learn through play (special need friendly)

4:00 pm -5:00 pm

Practice fine & gross motor skill
s, hand-eye coordination, & social skills. Open to children of all abilities

Newark Public Library

37055 Newark Blvd, Newark

(510) 284-0675

bit.ly/3DyAJaM

Saturdays, January 28 – March 25

Saturday English Conversation

10:00 am -12:00 pm

Open English conversation for all skill level

Newark Public Library

37055 Newark Blvd, Newark

(510) 284-0675

bit.ly/3DyAJaM

Materials will be provided

 

Mondays, January 30 – February 27

English conversations

12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Open for English conversation to any level of English learners

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont

(510) 745-1400

aclibrary.org/locations/FRM

Material will be provided

Upcoming Events:

 

Wednesday, January 25

Lunar New Year – Little Bookworms Storytime

11:30 am – 12:00 pm

Read, sing, and honor the year of the rabbit together

Cherryland Library

278 Hampton Road, Hayward

(510) 626-8522

aclibrary.com

Mask required

Wednesday, January 25

Hip Replacement – The Anterior Approach

4:30 pm

Get to know about muscle-sparing benefits of the technique

youtube.com/whhsInHealth

Wednesday, January 25

The Journaling hour (14+)

6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Create calendars, trackers, & other journaling basics

Centerville library

3801 Nicolet Ave, Fremont

(510) 795-2629

aclibrary.org/locations/CTV

Thursday – Sunday, January 26 – January 29

Friends of the Milpitas Library Big Winter Book Sale $

Jan 26: 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm (Member only night)

Jan 27 – Jan 29: 10:00 am -5:00 pm

Milpitas Public Library

160 N Main St, Milpitas

(408) 262-1171

sccld.org

Friday, January 27

Comedy Night R

8:00 am

Standup comedy from established, local rising stars

Swiss Park

5911 Mowry Ave, Newark

(510) 936-2523

bit.ly/3D01cNc

Friday, January 27

Roblox Game Night (7 – 14 years old) $R

5:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Play Roblox games on a private server with other Code Ninjas center’s ninjas

Code Ninjas

1772 Decoto Rd, Union City

(510) 585-9945

bit.ly/3JiqAlt

Friday, January 27

Family Caregiver Education Series R

11:00 am

Free viewing of movie “Welcome to Happiness”

Fremont City Hall

3300 Capitol Ave, Fremont

510.574.2035

bit.ly/3ZKvehK

fs******@fr*****.gov

Friday, January 27

Sax Sessions at Sakis’ R

7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Come out for a relaxing night out & unwind with the smooth sax music

Spin A Yarn Steakhouse

45915 Warm Spring Blvd, Fremont

(510) 656-9141

bit.ly/3D26Q1j

Friday, January 27 – Saturday, January 28

Open Enrollment Footwork University $R

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Roller-skate workshop by Dr. David Stewart aka NIZM

United Capoeira Association

22491 Foothill Blvd, Hayward

(650) 218-7601

bit.ly/3D1yUlz

Friday, January 27

2nd-8th Grade Make Your Own Puzzle

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm

Join in, let your imagination run wild, & create your very own puzzle

Milpitas Public Library

160 N Main St, Milpitas

(408) 262-1171

sccld.org

Saturday, January 28

Funky Fungi

11:30 am – 12:30 pm

Learn about mushroom, search for its rings, & make your own craft

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd, Fremont

(888) 327-2757

ebparks.org/parks/ardenwood

Saturday, January 28

Lunar New Year Celebration

2:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Enjoy lion & dragon dance, Chinese shadow puppets, calligraphy, arts & crafts, & a DIY photo booth

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont

(510) 745-1400

aclibrary.org/locations/FRM

Zoom Link: tinyurl.com/FRM-C
NY2023

ID: 884 6168 0727, Passcode: 780374

Mask required

Saturday, January 28

Victorian games

1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Try popular games like skittles, game of graces, Jacob’s ladder & more

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd, Fremont

(888) 327-2757

ebparks.org/parks/ardenwood

Saturday, January 28

Bike Mobile repair program

11:00 am – 2:00 pm

Fix flat tires, adjust brakes & gears, & even replace broken or worn-out parts

Union City Library

34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd, Union City

(510) 745-1464

bit.ly/3WujVaM

Saturday, January 28

Gardening Series R

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Prepping your garden for spring with tips for new gardeners, learn about seeds, crop rotation, building healthy soil, & more

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave, Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

aclibrary.org

ca**********@ac*******.org

Saturday, January 28

Bingo Night

5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Free to attend, food to purchase

Chick-fil-A Mowry Avenue

5245 Mowry Ave, Fremont

(510) 608-5771

bit.ly/3WpRmw2

Saturday, January 28

Crab Feed with Jumbo Prawns & Dance $

6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Already cleaned/no sell dungeness crab

Swiss Park

5911 Mowry Ave, Newark

(510) 936-2523

bit.ly/3iW0VUL

Purchase ticket at Swiss Park

Saturday, January 28

Jr. Paleontologist for 4+ R

11:00 am – 11:45 am

Learn about the tools used to find fossils & check out fossils found in East Bay parks

Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center

1895 Geary Rd, Sunol

(510) 544-3245

ebparks.org/parks/Sunol

Saturday, January 28

Sree Sree Saraswati Puja

11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Saraswati puja, pushpanjali, abhyasam, children cultural program, preetibhoj, arati, & bisharjan

Vedic Dharma Samaj Fremont Hindu Temple

3676 Delaware Dr., Fremont

(510) 659-0655

fremonttemple.org

Saturday, January 28

Nomad at the Bistro

3:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Performing solo-acoustically

The Bistro

1001 B Street, Hayward

(510) 833-3470

the-bistro.com, nomadicbliss.com

Saturday, January 28

Prison Re-Entry: Healing & Transformation $R

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Hear stories from former inmates about their life in prison, how they transformed & are making amends in the community

Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose

43326 Mission Blvd, Fremont

(510) 657-2468

msjdominicans.org, bit.ly/3XMiO7i

Saturday, January 28

2023 Crab Feed Fundraiser $R

5:00 pm – 9:30 pm

Featuring raffle basket, silent auction, live DJ, & a crab, pasta & salad dinner

Holy Spirit Gymnasium

37588 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

bit.ly/3Z9fOn3, bit.ly/3ZrRwVx

Saturday, January 28

“VARIETY” a Masterpiece of German Expressionism $R

7:30 pm

Famous film of a tragedy based on a circus aerialist triangle relationship

Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum

37417 Niles Blvd, Fremont

(510) 494-1411

bit.ly/3kwNGtV

Saturday, January 28

Stroke n’ Toke $R

6:00 pm – 8:30 pm

A step-by-step directional painting of an island oasis

Why Not Lounge

469 W A St, Hayward

(510) 586-0680

bit.ly/3XD7bze

Sunday, January 29

Fun with Felting

11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Turn sheep’s wool into felt

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd, Fremont

(888) 327-2757

ebparks.org/parks/ardenwood

Tuesday, January 31

Preparing for College & Career as Underclassmen R

6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

College admission tips & tricks by certified college & career counselor

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave, Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

bit.ly/3QRcwRj

ca**********@ac*******.org

Zoom link will be sent 30 minutes before the event