HISTORY MATTERS
By John Grimaldi and David Bruce Smith
Black History Month special
February 16 through 28
- America’s abolitionists had some powerful presidential proponents: John Adams disdained slavery, and his son, John Quincy — during his post White House years — became known as the attorney who argued an 1841 case before the Supreme Court — and won.
John Quincy defended 53 freed Africans who were commandeered aboard La Amistad and imprisoned. On July 2, 1839, while the slave ship was enroute to Cuba, the hostages defied their unlawful captors, and killed most of the crew; the cook, and the captain.
According to History.com, “Adams’ skillful arguments convinced the court to rule in favor of returning the Africans to their native country, but later, President (John) Tyler refused to allocate federal funds to send the Africans back to Africa. Instead, the abolitionists had to raise money to pay for the expense.” It is interesting to note that Tyler’s father, Judge John Tyler Sr. was a prominent slave owner in Virginia.
For more information the Grateful American Book Prize recommends “Amistad — Freedom is not given, it is a birthright!” by Florence R. Parker-Wallace.
- On February 25, 1964, 22-year-old Cassius Clay — later known as Muhammed Ali — defeated World Heavyweight Champion, Sonny Liston, at the Miami Beach Convention Hall. It was an enormous upset of expectations. Liston had been the eight-to-one favorite, but Clay had predicted he would “float like a butterfly, sting like a bee,” and knock out his competition in the eighth round. The match was over in the seventh.
According to History.com, “Cassius Marcellus Clay Jr. was born in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1942. He started boxing when he was 12 and by age 18 had amassed a record of over 100 wins in amateur competition. In 1959, he won the International Golden Gloves heavyweight title and in 1960 a gold medal in the light heavyweight category at the Summer Olympic Games in Rome. Clay turned professional after the Olympics and went undefeated in his first 19 bouts, earning him the right to challenge Sonny Liston, who had defeated Floyd Patterson in 1962 to win the heavyweight title.”
Ali — considered the greatest heavyweight boxer of all time — lived with Parkinson’s disease, and spinal stenosis, died in 2016 at the age of 74. The Grateful American Book Prize recommends Walter Dean Myers’ biography, “The Greatest: Muhammad Ali.”
- On February 27, 2006, Effa Manley became the first — and only woman — inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame as a trailblazing, non-player.
According to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, “Co-owner and business manager of the Newark Eagles from 1936 to 1948, Effa Manley was noted for running one of the most professional organizations in the Negro leagues. Using her position with Newark to crusade for civil rights, Manley made the Eagles a social force off the field and a baseball force on it, as the club was usually a top-division team and won the Negro League World Series in 1946. With the sale of Monte Irvin to the New York Giants, Manley established the precedent that major league clubs should respect the contracts of the Negro leagues.”
For more information, the Grateful American Book Prize recommends “Baseball’s Leading Lady: Effa Manley and the Rise and Fall of the Negro Leagues” by Andrea Williams.
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.
News and notes from around the world
Submitted by The Association of Mature American Citizens
A pickle of a crisis
The Portland, Oregon baseball team known as the Portland Pickles found itself in a fix when they returned home after an international tour, reports the Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC). The giant pickle costume worn by team’s mascot was missing. The good news was that the airline found the bag containing the uniform and delivered it to the team’s offices after hours; the bad news is that Dillon the Pickle, as the mascot is known, was stolen by a “porch pirate.” A surveillance camera caught the theft on tape, the video was posted online and the team’s general manager, Ross Campbell, issued a plea: “If you hear something about a seven foot tall pickle or see one just know that we don’t know where he is, again this is a very real situation that we don’t want to be in, so say something, help us out, tell your friends and hopefully we can bring Dillon back home.” See video of the porch pirate pickle theft on Twitter: twitter.com/picklesbaseball/status/1491485432936239105.
A historic saloon
The sign of a successful local saloon is its ability to win loyal patrons year-after-year, century-after-century, says AMAC. One such establishment in the United Kingdom has been attracting steadfast regulars for 1,229 years — Ye Olde Fighting Cocks pub in St. Albans, England. The pub opened its doors for the first time in the year 793 and managed to survive the plague known as the Black Death that ravaged England in the mid-1300s. But, alas, the pub was apparently unable survive a more recent plague better known as COVID-19. Manager Christo Tofalli said: “the past two years have been unprecedented for the hospitality industry and have defeated all of us who have been trying our hardest to ensure this multi-award-winning pub could continue trading into the future.” See video about the pub’s closure in YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=-VHihC04VVA.
The art of the yard sale
You never know what you are going to find at a yard sale; after all, as the saying goes, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” The maxim proved true for art collector Clifford Schorer, according to AMAC. He was in a bookstore in Massachusetts. The store’s owner asked him if he could find out the worth of a sketch that was purchased by a friend of his for $30 at a yard sale in 2019. As it turned out, it was a genuine work of art by German Renaissance artist Albrecht Durer and is likely to fetch its anonymous owner more than $10 million at auction. See a video report about the Albrecht Durer drawing on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1Qsqoia830.
The Association of Mature American Citizens is a nonprofit, nonpartisan 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
By Ned MacKay
In celebration of Black History Month, Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch is hosting a “Black History in the Outdoors & Nature Trivia Kahoot” from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, February 26. This is a virtual online program showcasing black explorers, scientists, rangers, cowboys and others and their contributions to parks, recreation, conservation and natural sciences.
Naturalist Virginia Delgado will host. No registration is required. To participate, just visit the Black Diamond Mines Facebook page at 6 p.m. on February 26 to meet the “game host.” Then use an additional tech device, such as a cell phone, tablet or laptop, to go to https://kahoot.it.com. Wait for the host
to give instructions and a PIN number.
Or for an actual, on-the-ground, in-park experience, check out “Volcanos, Labyrinths, Quarries and Newts,” a program from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 26 at Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve in the Oakland hills.
Naturalist Michael Charnofsky will lead the group on a 2½-mile moderate hike exploring hidden labyrinths in the old quarries that have reshaped Sibley’s terrain and exposed volcanic geology. There’s also a chance to see eagles soaring overhead, and newts swimming in the ponds.
This is a free, drop-in program; registration is not required. For information, call (510) 544-3187. Sibley Preserve is on Skyline Boulevard, a short distance south of the intersection with Grizzly Peak Boulevard in Oakland.
Down at Sunol Regional Wilderness in southern Alameda County, tracking animals is the name of the game. Drop by the Sunol Visitor Center any time between 9:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 26. Naturalist Erica Stephens will provide information about animal tracks. You can play a track matching game, then head into the park to look for tracks and other animal signs on your own.
Sunol Regional Wilderness is at the end of Geary Road off Calaveras Road about five miles south of I-680 and the town of Sunol. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. For information, call (510) 544-3245.
Back in the day, people had neither coin laundromats nor automatic clothes washers. Find out how they kept their clothes clean during an old-fashioned laundry program from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 26 at Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont. The group will use washboards, agitators and hand-crank wringers to experience washday, 19th century style. The program is free, registration is not required, and there’s no need to bring your own laundry.
Or if you prefer, you can join in Victorian fun and games between 1 and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 27. Try stilt walking, play the game of graces, and enjoy other pastimes from bygone days.
Ardenwood is located at 34600 Ardenwood Boulevard, just north of Highway 84. There’s an admission fee; parking is free. For information, call (510) 544-2797.
Rabbits are the stars of a program from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, February 27 at the Little Farm in Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley with naturalist Jenna S. Collins. Find out what rabbits eat, whether they sleep, how their fur feels, and other rabbit lore. The program is free, registration isn’t necessary, but masks are required.
The Little Farm is at the north end of Tilden’s Central Park Drive, accessible via Canon Drive from Grizzly Peak Boulevard in Berkeley. For information, call (510) 544-2233.
Beginning and more advanced birders alike will enjoy the next in naturalist Anthony Fisher’s series of Monday birding hikes, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon on Feb. 28 at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline in Richmond.
The program is free and registration is not required. Meet Anthony at the park entrance at the end of Atlas Road. For information, call (510) 544-2233.
There’s plenty more to see and do in the regional parks. For the full story, visit the website, www.ebparks.org.
Tri-City History in Photographs #2: Depots
By Kelsey Camello, for the Washington Township Museum of Local History
Depot (noun): A railroad station or a storehouse, as a building where freight is deposited.
Let’s learn local history through themes and photographs. Have a topic or idea you’d like us to explore? Email us at [email protected].
Cricket: Beginning of a new inning
By Madhvika Singh
Photos courtesy of Major League Cricket
A relative newcomer to the sports scene in the United States, cricket has been around for hundreds of years and enjoys immense popularity across parts of Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe and West Indies. Cricket is loved by billions across the globe, second in popularity only to soccer. Many of its legendary players like Brian Lara, Glenn McGrath, James Anderson, and Sachin Tendulkar are zealously revered by millions. The sport’s popularity is now making its way to parts of the United States.
While there are many rules that govern the game, here are some basics. Cricket is played between two teams of 11 players in a circular field. There is rectangular section in the field called the pitch, which is bookended by two wickets. Each wicket contains three stumps topped by two sticks called bails. And, of course, a ball and a bat are essential to the game.
At any given point in the game, one team is the batting team, and the other is the bowling team. The objective of the batting team is to defend the wicket and score as many runs as they can. The objective of the bowling team is to dismiss all the batsmen and prevent them from scoring runs.
Runs can be scored in a few ways, like hitting the ball out of the field, or by running between the wickets after the ball has been hit. Likewise, batsmen can get dismissed in different ways, one of them being when the bowler hits the wicket behind the batsman and topples the bails. There are different formats of the game, with the shortest one being the Twenty20 and the longest one, a Test Match that can last up to five days.
Major League Cricket (MLC) is a professional league founded in 2019 with plans to bring professional cricket to the country. “Cricket is a sport that’s increasing in popularity in the U.S. and Santa Clara County,” said Otto Lee, Santa Clara District 3 Supervisor. A major step was taken when MLC was granted an exclusive negotiating agreement by the county of Santa Clara to develop plans for an international cricket venue. This allows MLC to move ahead with lease negotiations and design approvals for a cricket stadium on a 14-acre parcel of Santa Clara County Fairgrounds in San Jose.
The proposed cricket stadium would also be home for MLC’s Bay Area franchise and would be a potential venue for major international cricket events. “The stadium plans include a venue that will hold a maximum of 15,000 fans, state-of-the-art training facilities, locker rooms, luxury suites, dedicated parking, concessions and an international-grade pitch to meet International Cricket Council (ICC) accreditation,” shared Tom Dunmore, VP, Marketing for MLC. “Cricket has a long history in the Bay Area as well. Nowadays, you’ll see games of cricket taking place all over local fields. There are two Minor League Cricket teams in the Bay Area, Silicon Valley Strikers, who won the inaugural 2021 Minor League Championship, and East Bay Blazers.”
Cricket is expected to get a further boost with the next Twenty20 Cricket World Cup being hosted jointly by United States and West Indies. “The future of Cricket in the United States is very bright. The Twenty20 Men’s World Cup in 2024 will be a milestone for the sport,” added Dunmore. MLC is also exploring development of a cricket pitch in Fremont, which would potentially be home to the Silicon Valley Strikers. Dunmore shares, “Fremont is a tremendous fit for a cricket development due to its demographics, with a large number of passionate cricket fans in the area.”
For more information on cricket, visit:
Major League Cricket: https://www.majorleaguecricket.com/
Minor League Cricket: https://milc.majorleaguecricket.com/
Journey of Color
Submitted by Olive Hyde Art Guild
On Friday, March 4, Olive Hyde Art Guild will hold the opening reception for their cur
rent online/in-person exhibit “Journey of Color.” Artist May Shei works with watercolor on rice paper to create flowing lines and striking shades.
Born in a small town in southern Taiwan, Shei brings the richness of her country’s history into her artwork. Her paintings elegantly blend the traditional techniques of Asian art-making with her new contemporary process. She often portrays the creatures of her childhood as well as ancient figures from Taiwan’s history. Shei’s collection of work in “Journey of Color” examines the abstract and natural, and the ways in which they collide with our modern world.
May Shei graduated from both Tainan University of Technology and Chinese Culture University, in the Arts. Shei works as an art professional; teaching, creating and showcasing her works in solo exhibitions and art competitions around the world. To learn more about Shei, visit her website mayshei.com.
Journey of Color
Opening Reception: Friday, March 4
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
In person/online exhibit: Through Saturday, April 2
Olive Hyde Art Gallery
123 Washington Blvd., Fremont
(510) 791-4357
https://olivehydeartguild.org/
Superhero Fun Run & Walk
Submitted by Robert Magbanua
It’s time to dust off that cape, and spring into action this March! Bring your friends and family out for the “Superhero 5k Fun Run & Walk.” We will have prizes, raffles and costume contests, as well as awards for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners of each category.
For an extra $5, runners can enter the Heroes & Villains challenge. Participants will be given two flags before the race. Volunteers dressed as villains will attempt to capture these flags as you run. If you return with at least one flag on your hip at the end of the race, you will be randomly entered into a raffle to win a superhero themed prize.
The 8th annual Superhero Fun Run celebrates the anniversary of Mark Green Sports Center as well as helps raise funds and awareness for those affected by Parkinson’s Disease. Mark Green Sports Center began its Parkinson’s Exercise Program in 2016. Since then, this event is the kickoff for fundraising for the Parkinson’s Foundation. $5 from every registration will be donated to our Parkinson’s Foundation Moving Day team. (The Moving Day Event will be held later in 2022.)
Register at www.unioncity.org/reg (search: superhero 5k)
Services Superhero 5k Fun Run & Walk
Sunday, Mar 6
8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
City Hall Parking Lot
34009 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 675-5600
www.unioncity.org/419/Community-Events
Registration: $22-32
Alameda County Water District Board
February 10, 2022
Public Comments:
- Concern about installation of residential water valve boxes.
- Concern about electric vehicle charging fee at ACWD building.
- Don’t increase water service charge, instead increase water consumption charge.
- The proposed water rate changes will penalize thrifty water users.
Consent Calendar:
- Approval of minutes from the January 13 board meeting and the January 20 special board meeting.
- Ratification of payment of audited demands dated December 22, 2021 and January 7, 14, 21, and 28, 2022.
- Reaffirm a State of Emergency resolution to continue conducting board meetings remotely due to COVID-19 pandemic health and safety concerns pursuant to Assembly Bill 361.
- Authorize two agreements regarding the 2022 Quagga and Zebra Mussel Prevention Programs at the Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area and Lake Del Valle.
- Authorize the purchase of a vacuum excavator.
- Authorize a Municipal Water Quality Investigation agreement and related program specific project agreement.
- Adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and approving Alameda Reservoir Roof Replacement Project and direct the Filing of a Notice of Determination.
Action Items:
- Resolution amending the district’s rate and fee schedule regarding water-related rates and charges, including water shortage emergency stage rates, private fire service rates and outside district commodity rates. Adopted 4-1, with Director Huang voting no.
- Public hearing and vote to consider revisions to the district’s water rates and the addition of water shortage emergency stage rates, effective March 1, 2022. Adopted 4-1, with Director Weed voting no.
- Resolution amending the Customer Assistance Program, facilities connection charges, and miscellaneous fees and charges, and finding that the amendments are exempt from California Environmental Quality Act. Unanimously adopted.
- Resolution to place a member of Alameda County Water District Board of Directors in nomination as a member of Association of California Water Agencies Region 5 Board for the 2022-2023 Term. Director Weed was unanimously selected.
- Delivery of groundwater monitoring and survey reports, and adoption of resolutions relating to the Replenishment Assessment act. Unanimously adopted.
John Weed, President Aye; 1 No
Aziz Akbari Aye
James Gunther Aye
Judy Huang Aye; 1 No
Paul Sethy Aye
Costs climb again for California’s high-speed rail
By Kathleen Ronayne
Associated Press
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP), Feb. 9 — Another $5 billion has been added to the cost of California’s ambitious but long delayed high-speed rail line, according to estimates released Feb. 8 that show it could take $105 billion to finish the route from San Francisco to Los Angeles.
The figures were included in the California High Speed Rail Authority’s latest biennial business plan. The increases are partly due to commitments aimed at minimizing community disruption, such as distancing the train from the Cesar E. Chavez National Monument in the Central Valley and tunneling tracks near the Burbank airport, project officials said.
The project’s price tag has steadily risen since voters first approved nearly $10 billion in bond money for it in 2008, when the total cost was pegged at $40 billion. In the years since, the costs have kept climbing amid struggles to obtain the necessary land and other delays. Today, the rail authority is far short of the money it needs to complete the full project.
The first part of the line will run through the Central Valley; construction is underway on a 119-mile segment where the trains will first be tested before the track is extended to take passengers from Merced to Bakersfield. No track has yet been laid, but the authority has obtained 90% of the land parcels it needs for the first segment and more than half the full 500-mile route is now environmentally cleared, according to the business plan.
Chief Executive Officer Brian Kelly said on Feb. 8 the possibility of a fresh infusion of cash from the federal government puts the project on a stronger path. California should be in a good position to compete for as much as $6 billion in grant money under the federal infrastructure bill Congress passed last year, he said.
During the Obama administration, California won roughly $3.5 billion for the project, then former Republican President Donald Trump revoked about $1 billion of that. It’s been returned by the Biden administration.
Receiving billions more in federal dollars would allow the project’s first operational
track to be a double track, not a single one, and help the project move forward on design and other work, Kelly said. “We just think that this is a great opportunity to really move the project forward,” he said.
Republican Assemblyman Jim Patterson of Fresno, a longtime critic of the project whose district it will run through, was unimpressed by the business plan’s hopes for receiving more federal money to build a double track. “Given the embarrassing failures this project has racked up, I’d be surprised if the feds decide to throw more money at it,” Patterson said in a statement.
As the project waits for more funding from the Biden administration, the rail authority is also fighting for money from the state. Last year, the Legislature did not agree to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s budget request to release $4.2 billion that’s left in the voter-approved bond fund for the project. Democratic leaders in the state Assembly have been hesitant to release the money due to skepticism about the project’s overall approach and lack of sustained funding.
Last fall, Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon and Assemblywoman Laura Friedman suggested the rail authority delay plans to electrify the first leg of track. Neither responded to requests for comment on Feb. 8.
Newsom, a Democrat, proposed releasing the money again in his January budget proposal as part of a transportation package that also includes billions of dollars for local rail and transportation projects. “Although the administration was disappointed that the transportation package didn’t get done last year, we continue to move forward and are working to achieve funding in this year’s budget,” Newsom spokesman Daniel Lopez said in a statement.
Beyond the bond money and federal dollars, the rail project is funded by revenue from California’s cap-and-trade program, which requires polluters to buy permits to emit carbon.
Bill to decriminalize jaywalking
Submitted by Nannette Miranda
In an effort to promote fairness and prevent potentially escalating police stops for jaywalking, a Bay Area lawmaker is reintroducing a bill that would change the way jaywalking citations are given in California.
The bill, authored by Assemblymember Phil Ting, (D-San Francisco), suggests that tickets are disproportionately given to people of color and individuals of modest means. If passed, AB 2147 – called The Freedom to Walk Act — would change the way pedestrians can be cited for crossing a street outside of an intersection and would decriminalize jaywalking when the roadway is safe to cross.
This is Ting’s second attempt to decriminalizing jaywalking in California. The latest proposal makes technical changes to address the concerns stated in Governor Gavin Newsom’s veto message of AB 1238 last year. Instead of repealing the state’s jaywalking laws, the new bill defines when an officer can stop a pedestrian for jaywalking — specified as only when a reasonably careful person would realize there’s an immediate danger of a collision.
“Whether it’s someone’s life or the hundreds of dollars in fines, the cost is too much for a relatively minor infraction. It’s time to reconsider how we use our law enforcement resources and whether our jaywalking laws really do protect pedestrians, especially when we are trying to encourage people to get out of their cars and walk more for health and environmental reasons,” Ting said at a recent San Francisco press conference.
In a February 16 press release, Ting’s office said that data from 2018-2020 compiled by the California Racial and Identity Profiling Act showed Black Californians are severely overrepresented when it comes to being stopped for jaywalking, up to four-and-a-half times more than their white counterparts.
“Everyone jaywalks, but California police officers are five times more likely to stop a Black person for jaywalking than a white person. These laws are not only discriminatory, but also lead to harmful — and, in some cases, deadly — encounters with police,” said Rio Scharf, Equal Justice Works Fellow with the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights of the San Francisco Bay Area. “It’s time to finally decriminalize walking.”
Ting’s office said The Freedom to Walk Act promotes the fair and equitable use of streets in two ways:
- By legalizing crossings outside of a crosswalk or against a traffic light when safe, thereby eliminating fines for safe crossings.
- By preventing police from using jaywalking as a pretext to stop Black and Brown people.
California has already begun making changes. Up until 2018 it was illegal for people to cross the street at a traffic light when the pedestrian countdown meter began flashing. Meanwhile, Ting’s latest measure will be scheduled for its first committee hearing this spring.
Milpitas City Council
February 15, 2022
Presentation:
- Presentations were made to Santa Clara Valley Science and Engineering Fair Association (SCVSEFA) Milpitas student STEM winners.
Future Agenda Item:
- The Mayor requested the staff to study the Ordinances that may exist and are enforced in nearby cities about homeless encampments being restricted near schools, libraries, day care centers, etc. The proposal was opposed by Councilmembers Phan and Dominguez.
Consent Calendar:
- Adopted a resolution declaring weeds on specific properties to be public nuisances and set a public hearing on March 15, 2022.
- Authorized the City Manager to submit applications for and administration of CalRecycle Grants for five years.
- Reviewed the FY 2021-22 Quarterly Financial Status Report for the Quarter Ending December 31, 2021.
- Received the December 2021 report for unhoused services.
- Authorized the City Manager to execute a Commercial Lease Agreement by and between Nibbi Brothers General Contractor’s (“Tenant”) and the City of Milpitas (“Landlord”) for a term of 15 months plus three extension periods of (1) month each, for a not- to-exceed contract of 18 months.
- Received Mayor Tran’s recommendation and approved the appointment to the Library and Education Advisory Commission.
- Accepted the resignation of Commissioner Manpreet Badesha from the Energy and Environmental Sustainability Commission and directed the City Clerk to post the notice of the unscheduled vacancy.
Support Services:
- Considered a resolution to adopt Draft Goals and Performance Measures to provide a framework for evaluating potential City participation in middle-income workforce housing projects. Considered a proposal to convert the Turing Apartments located at 1355 McCandless Drive to low, median, and moderate-income housing. The discussions were elaborate, and sometimes very contentious between the Mayor and Councilmember Dominguez. It was clear at the end that the proposal on the table contained items that needed more clarity and further consideration. No formal decisions were taken. The item was eventually moved to be brought back at the next meeting of the Council.
- Approved the FY 2021-22 Mid-Year Budget Amendments. Vote: 4 – 0 (Abstain: Dominguez)
- Initiated consideration of the Council priority items for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. Following some contentious discussions between Mayor Tran and Councilmember Dominguez it was decided to stop further deliberations and the meeting was abruptly adjourned.
Rich Tran (Mayor) Aye
Carmen Montano (Vice Mayor) Aye
Anthony Phan Aye
Karina Dominguez Aye Abstain 1
Evelyn Chu
a Aye
Newark City Council
February 10, 2022
Presentations:
- Introduction of Jennifer Solito to Newark city staff as Human Recourses Director.
Public Comment:
- Eric Bishop, Ohlone College Superintendent, formally introduces himself to the city council.
- Opposition to Project Homekey due to concerns in safety, property value and lack of information given to the public by the City of Newark.
- Request to extend the 500 feet radius distribution of Project Homekey informative flyers.
- Multiple requests to add Project Homekey to next week’s agenda.
- City council informs the public of a town meeting dedicated to having an open discussion on Project Homekey on Wednesday, March 6 at 6:30 p.m.
Consent Calendar:
- Approval of audited demands.
- Approval of January 27, 2022 minutes.
- Resolution for acceptance of work with DeSilva Gates Construction L.P. for 2020-2021 Asphalt Concrete Street Overlay Program.
- Resolution for acceptance of work with Bond Blacktop, Inc. for 2020-2021 Street Slurry Seal Program.
- Motion to accept the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) for the period ended June 20, 2022.
City Council Matters:
- Council states their appreciation to Mayor Nagy for his dedication to the city and its residence.
Mayor Alan Nagy Aye
Vice Mayor Hannon Aye
Sucy Collazo Aye
Luis Freitas Aye
Mike Bucci Aye
County greenlights $75.5M for affordable housing
Submitted by Santa Clara County
Efforts to end homelessness in Santa Clara County received a big push forward on Tuesday February, 8 when the County’s Board of Supervisors approved $75.5 million for six new affordable housing projects. In all, the developments will add 758 homes for low-income community members. Additionally, $2 million in one-time state grants were approved to double capacity for a motel shelter program for families with children.
“Thanks to the residents of Santa Clara County who approved a $950 million affordable housing bond in 2016, the Board is able to approve another new wave of housing projects. This means more people, more families, and more children are getting off the streets,” said County of Santa Clara Supervisor Cindy Chavez, one of the architects of the Measure A Affordable Housing Bond. “Santa Clara County has a goal to achieve a ‘functional zero’ in five years, meaning the number of housing placements for families in the county is greater than the number of families entering homelessness.”
The latest funding adds significantly to the efforts in ending homelessness. Since voters approved the Measure A Affordable Housing Bond in 2016, the County has funded 41 developments that total more than 4,400 homes throughout Santa Clara County – many of which are now in operation or nearing completion:
Nine developments (with 830 affordable apartments) have been completed and have collectively served 1,640 formerly homeless and low-income community members.
Eleven more projects (with an additional 1,280 affordable apartments) are currently under construction, with seven of them on track to open this year.
Of the roughly 4,400 new homes funded so far, about 3,600 are for extremely and very low-income households. That means the County is more than 75% of the way to its goal of 4,800 new apartments for extremely and very low-income households by 2026, a promise to voters who approved the Measure A Affordable Housing Bond in 2016. Tuesday’s approved projects also include one site in Sunnyvale (Orchard Gardens), which became the eighth city in Santa Clara County to now have a 2016 Measure A funded development.
2016 Measure A developments have changed the lives of 1,640 people with the opportunity to live in an affordable apartment. The first such development opened in Cupertino in 2019 and is designed for seniors who have experienced homelessness.
Tuesday’s approvals also include $2 million to double the capacity of a motel shelter program that will now be able to assist 88 unhoused families with children per night. The expansion is part of the countywide Heading Home campaign to end family homelessness, and will serve as a critical resource to bring homeless families indoors as they are connected to permanent housing.
To sustain the progress and meet the County’s long-term housing goals, it will be critical to tap numerous other funding sources beyond the 2016 Measure A Affordable Housing Bond, such as utilizing the State’s Homekey program and looking at creative options for County-controlled properties.
“We have made a considerable dent, but now is not the time to slow down. Even as we house more people, there are additional community members at risk of falling into homelessness every day,” said Consuelo Hernández, Director of the County of Santa Clara Office of Supportive Housing. “We’re going to double down on our resources to set up sustainable, long-term solutions to make sure we can offer every resident the opportunity for safe and stable housing.”
Fremont City Council
February 15, 2022
Public Communications:
- Reinstate no parking and loading zone on Rancho Arroyo Parkway.
- Need more transparency and time for Homekey Project.
- Support for Homekey Project.
Scheduled Items:
- Redistricting Public Hearing #3. Public Hearing #4 scheduled for March 1st at 7:15 p.m. Information available at: www.redistrictfremont.org
- Approve Sabercat Trail Extension Project.
Mayor Lili Mei Aye
Vice Mayor Raj Salwan, District 5 Aye
Teresa Keng, District 1 Aye
Rick Jones, District 2 Aye
Jenny Kassan, District 3 Aye
Yang Shao, District 4 Aye
Teresa Cox, District 6 Aye
Tech bio privacy bill would boost consumer protection
Submitted by Jeff Barbosa
With the use of biometric information in technology expanding, State Senator Bob Wieckowski (D-Fremont) introduced a bill on February 17 to broaden the definition of biometric information to increase privacy protection for California consumers.
“Biometric technologies are becoming more prevalent in our society and it is important that we safe
guard consumers from this encroachment into their privacy,” said Wieckowski, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee.” SB 1189 would ensure biometric information is applied in a responsible manner that protects individuals’ privacy by expanding control over their personal information. It takes the onus off of consumers by requiring their informed consent to collect or disclose biometric data.”
SB 1189, the California Biometric Information Privacy Act, broadens the definition of biometric data to a person’s physiological, biological, and behavioral characteristics that can be used to establish individual identity. It prohibits any private entity from selling, leasing, trading, using for advertising purposes or otherwise profiting from a person’s biometric information. It also includes a private right of action for Californians when a company violates their rights.
The California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 gives consumers the right to opt out of the sale of their personal information and secures other privacy rights. Wieckowski’s bill would supplement the CCPA by covering more businesses in the emerging biometric information field.
The measure would cover all private entities and require them to get the consumer’s consent before collecting their biometric information. It would also require private entities to publish a written policy establishing a retention schedule and guidelines for permanently erasing the biometric information.
The bill, which is working its way through the Legislature, is sponsored by the Electronic Frontier Foundation and co-sponsored by the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse.
Wieckowski represents the 10th District in the State Senate, which includes southern Alameda County and parts of Santa Clara County. Constituents who need information or assistance on state issues can call the senator’s district office at (510) 794-3900 or send an email to https://sd10.senate.ca.gov/contact/email.
Always room for strawberries
By Melinda Myers
Photos courtesy of MelindaMyers.com
As you plan this year’s garden, be sure to include some strawberries. They are low in calories, high in vitamin C and antioxidants, and provide seasonal interest in gardens and containers. Best of all, you don’t need much space to grow this delicious fruit. There are three types of strawberries: June or spring bearing, everbearing and day neutral. Select the best type of strawberry for your space and harvest needs.
June-bearing strawberries produce one crop of berries in late spring to early summer, depending on where you garden. They produce the largest harvest, but in the shortest time span. Plant now and enjoy an abundant harvest next year. Everbearing strawberries usually produce two crops of berries each year. You’ll enjoy fresh strawberries early and late in the season, while day-neutral plants produce berries throughout the growing season.
Delizz®, a day-neutral strawberry, was the first ever strawberry to be selected as an All-America Selections Winner. Just like the flower and vegetable winners, it was tested nationally and selected for its performance for the home garden. This 2016 winner is a compact plant perfect for hanging baskets, containers or garden beds. It can be started from seed or transplants and will produce sweet fruit the first year and all season long, even during hot weather.
Up the ornamental appeal of traditional in-ground plantings with a star shaped or tiered bed. The elevated beds make for easier planting, weeding and harvesting. You’ll find a variety of tiered shaped beds to purchase or diagrams from which you can make your own. Use strawberries as a groundcover in sunny well-drained locations for an abundant harvest. Their attractive leaves, white flowers, red fruit and brilliant red fall color add sparkle to the landscape and provide fresh fruit for your meals. Or grow them in a container, window box or hanging basket on your porch, balcony or deck. They’ll be close at hand and easy to harvest.
Mix a few everbearing or day-neutral strawberries in with flowers to create an edible and ornamental planter. The harvest will be smaller when grown in a mixed container, but the flowers, fruit and fall color add ornamental appeal, and the fruit will be a welcome treat. Boost the harvest by growing strawberries in their own container. Fill a hanging basket and watch as the runners cascade over the edge for added ornamental appeal.
Try filling a traditional strawberry pot – a container with an open top and addition side openings like windows – with plants that produce several harvests. (Remove runners as needed.) Keep all plants from top to bottom looking their best with the following DIY watering device:
Place soil on the bottom of the container. Set a couple of perforated PVC (plastic pipes) down through the planter. Begin placing plants inside, and slide stems and leaves so that they poke out through the “windows” on the sides. As you place your plants, fill the remaining space with soil. Gently tamp and water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets. As you water, the water travels through the pipe and out the holes, providing moisture to all plants from top to bottom.
Check containers daily and water thoroughly and often enough to keep the soil slightly moist. Reduce maintenance and increase success by incorporating a low nitrogen slow-release fertilizer into soil at planting or sprinkle over soil surface as needed. This type of fertilizer promotes growth without interfering with flowering and fruit production.
Start now identifying spaces to add strawberries to your landscape, deck and balcony. Then order seeds or plants early for the greatest selection. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying garden fresh strawberries in your morning cereal, salads or as a snack at the end of the day.
Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including The Midwest Gardener’s Handbook and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally-syndicated TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Her web site is www.melindamyers.com.
IAD022222
CONTINUING EVENTS:
Tuesday, February 8 – Monday, April 4
Climate Change Art
M – T: 12 noon – 8 p.m.
W-Th: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sa: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Su: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Lobby Display Cases (thru 2/28)
Learning Center Windows (thru 3/31)
Gallery Wall (thru 4/4)
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave, Castro Valley
www.aclibrary.org
(510) 667-7900
Thursday, January 20 – Saturday, April 2
Journey of Color
Virtual Exhibit: 1/20 – 4/2
In-Person Exhibit: 1/27 – 4/2
Gallery Hours: Thurs – Sun, 12 noon – 5 p.m.
Reception: 3/4 @ 7 p.m.
Asian painting techniques with contemporary processes
Olive Hyde Gallery
123 Washington Blvd., Fremont
(510) 791-4357
https://fremont.gov/3065/Current-Exhibition
Thursday, January 20 – Sunday, March 27
Double Take: Art and Literature Side by Side
Thurs -Sun, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Art Reception: 3/19, 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Blending together of word and art
Bankhead Theater
2400 First St., Livermore
www.LivermoreArts.org
Friday, February 4 – Tuesday, March 1
Celebrating Black History Month
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Art exhibit showcasing unity in community
Studio 11 Gallery
34626 11th Street, Union City
(510) 675-5445
Saturdays and Sundays, February 12 – April 17
Niles Canyon Railway Train Rides $
Departures from Sunol Depot at 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
$25 for adults
$15 for seniors (62+) and children (3-12)
6 Kilkare Road, Sunol
https://www.ncry.org/
Sunday, February 13 – Sunday, April 17
Dove Gallery Annual Juried Art Exhibit
Sundays from 12 noon – 3 p.m.
Artworks of various media and style by 80 artists
Park Victoria Church back parking lot
875 S. Park Victoria Dr., Milpitas
Sundays: February 27, March 6, March 13
Virtual Tour of Israel $R
1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Israel tour guide leads you through the city
Register: tinyurl.com/wtbtvirtualtour
Pay: tinyurl.com/virtualtourpayment
$18 per tour; $50 for full series
UPCOMING
Wednesday, February 23
Virtual visit with Susan Longini R
10 a.m.
Learn the process of kiln-formed glass sculptures
Via Zoom (Link sent upon registration)
https://olivehydeartguild.org/
Wednesday, February 23
Environmental Justice Public Forum R
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
City of Hayward invites community to take part in plan development
Via Zoom
https://www.hayward-ca.gov/discover/events/environmental-justice-public-forum
Thursday, February 24
Animal Feeding
3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Check for eggs and feed the livestock
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Thursday, February 24
ABC Bike Check & Equipment R
6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Learn how to check your air, brakes, chain
Via Zoom
www.aclibrary.org
(925) 803-7252
Thursday, February 24
Family Caregiver Education Series
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Learn effective communication strategies
Via Zoom
(510) 574-2035
Thursday, February 24
Union City Housing Element Update R
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Learn about the city’s housing challenges
Register at: https://bit.ly/3rQqmsp
(510) 675-5322
Thursday, February 24
Storm Large $
7:30 p.m.
Singer-songwriter connects with emotional tunes
Tickets: $20-$98 ($20 student/military personnel)
Bankhead Theater
www.LivermoreArts.org
Friday, February 25
Animal Feeding
3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Check for eggs and feed the livestock
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Friday, February 25
Music at the Mission: Together Again
8 p.m.
Classical music trio
All Saint’s Episcopal Church
911 Dowling Blvd., San Leandro
Tickets: $35
(510) 402-1724
Saturday, February 26
Salon Series Concert: Together Again
2 p.m.
Music trio, wine and hors d’oervres
Private Residence, Fremont
Tickets: $75
(510) 402-1724
Saturday, February 26
Chickens and Dinos
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Discover connections between chickens and dinos
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Saturday, February 26
Old-Fashioned Laundry
1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Washboards, agitators, hand wringers
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Saturday, February 26
Animal Feeding
3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Check for eggs and feed the livestock
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Saturday, February 26
Discovery on Demand
10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Hands-on activities, investigations, crafts
Coyote Hills Regional Park
Visitors Center
8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont
(510) 544-3220
Saturday, February 26
Nectar Garden Exploration
11 a.m. – 12 noon
Discover native pollinators and plants
Coyote Hills Regional Park
Visitors Center
8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont
(510) 544-3220
Saturday, February 26
Whose Track is That?
9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Become a wildlife detective
Sunol Regional Park
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
Saturday, February 26
Bay Area Stand Up Comedy: A Humorous History
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
In person book signing
Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum
37417 Niles Blvd., Fremont
https://nilesfilmmuseum.or
g/
Sunday, February 27
Black Health and Wellness R
3 p.m.
Online history and panel discussion
(510) 581-0223 ext. 152
www.haywardareahistory.org
Sunday, February 27
Discovery on Demand
10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Hands-on activities, investigations, crafts
Coyote Hills Regional Park
Visitors Center
8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont
(510) 544-3220
Sunday, February 27
Nectar Garden Exploration
11 a.m. – 12 noon
Discover native pollinators and plants
Coyote Hills Regional Park
Visitors Center
8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont
(510) 544-3220
Sunday, February 27
Meet the Chickens
11 a.m. – 12 noon
Feed the chickens in the coop
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Sunday, February 27
Animal Feeding
3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Check for eggs and feed the livestock
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Sunday, February 27
Victorian Fun & Games
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Stilts and the game of graces
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Sunday, February 27
33rd Annual Gala Celebrating the Arts
2 p.m.
Featuring VIFE Flute Ensemble, Betty Gentry Dance Studio, and more.
Newark Junior High Multi-Purpose Auditorium
6201 Lafayette St., Newark
(510) 793-5683
www.lov.org
Sunday, February 27
Groovy Judy Band
5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Love-infused rock grooves
The Florence Bar
37349 Niles Blvd., Fremont
(510) 792-5522
Monday, February 28
Outdoor Discoveries: Frogs and Toads
10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Preschool nature series ages 4-8
Sunol Regional Park
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3249
Monday, February 28
Town Hall with Ro Khanna
6 p.m.
Via Facebook Live:
https://www.facebook.com/RepRoKhanna/
Tuesday, March 1
Zero Waste Living R
6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Tips and tricks for reducing waste
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Tuesday, March 1
Redistricting Public Hearing
7:15 p.m.
City of Fremont revisions to the district map
Via Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/91401080991
www.redistrictfremont.org
Wednesday, March 2
Fremont Art Association general meeting/demo artist
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Miki Shim and Lance Rutter
Demo the process of ceramic works
Via Zoom; link will be provided upon registration
https://www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo
Sunday, March 6
Superhero 5k Fun Run & Walk $R
8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
City Hall Parking Lot
34009 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 675-5600
www.unioncity.org/reg
Letter to the Editor
Job Well Done
This is in reference to my Letter to the Editor published on January 25 entitled ‘Fremont’s Bumpy Roads’.
I was so glad to see the officials of the City of Fremont took care of that area of an uneven and bumpy road I mentioned in my letter at Paseo Padre Pkwy at Grimmer Blvd.
I have noticed that the patch was completely repaired and resurfaced. I really appreciate the city and its public works department for taking care of business. At this time, there are more busy streets/intersections around the city where repair work is required. All I ask is for city officials to physically survey the locations that need to be repaired on a priority basis.
Again, ‘Thank You’ City of Fremont for a good job!
Zafar Yousufzai
Fremont
Undefeated champion invests in his hometown
Submitted by Hayward Chamber of Commerce
Andre’s career started when his father took him to a boxing gym in Hayward when he was 9 years old. He attended Hayward High School and was looked after by his godfather, Virgil Hunter. Hunter became his trainer for the length of a career that included winning a gold medal at the 2004 Olympics. His training included running uphill on Hayward’s Harder Road and Carlos Bee Boulevard.
After competing professionally from 2004-2017, Andre was undefeated and held multiple world titles. During his reign as light heavyweight champion, he was ranked as the world’s best active boxer and the 12th greatest fighter of all time.
Andre has partnered with Ike Shehadeh to open Ike’s Love and Sandwiches here in his hometown, where the “special” is a sandwich named after him (Order No. 350).
To learn about more Hayward heroes, go to the Hayward Chamber of Commerce roster of honorees from last year’s Black History Month promotion on Facebook.
Family receives Congressional Gold Medal
Submitted by Garrett Yee, Major General at Defense Information Systems Agency
Nearly 20,000 Chinese Americans served honorably during WWII. It was a time of deep discrimination, yet they served. In 2018, long overdue, Congress approved the Congressional Gold Medal for the Chinese American veterans of WWII. My father Gilbert Yee served in the Army during WWII, and for that our family received a replica of the Congressional Gold Medal. I received the medal back in December and in February I presented the medal to my mother Michiko Yee. Great job, Dad! You helped to pave the way for me and many others.
Honor Roll
Tufts University, Massachusetts
Fall 2021 Dean’s List
- Andrew Chang of Milpitas
- Brian Fu of Fremont
- Fernanda Gonzalez of Hayward
- Riddhi Joshi of Fremont
- Aneri Parikh of Fremont
- Ellyn Xu of Fremont
Police name new city captain
Submitted by San Leandro Police Department
During his more than 20-year career with San Leandro Police Department (SLPD) Laquat “Ali” Khan has steadily moved through the ranks and worked in numerous capacities while earning the trust of his colleagues and the public.
Most recently, Khan has been serving as Acting Captain, but on February 1, SLPD officials made the rank permanent when they announced his promotion to Police Captain.
Khan joined SLPD in 2000 as a public safety dispatcher and made the transition to police officer six years later. As an officer he worked in patrol, as a hostage negotiator, peer support member and detective in the Special Victim’s Unit.
In 2014, Khan was promoted to sergeant and con
tinued as a team leader on the Hostage Negotiations Team and was assigned to the Professional Standards and Training Unit. Five years later Khan was promoted to lieutenant, and after returning to the Patrol Division for a brief period, he was assigned as the Criminal Investigations Commander.
In his new rank, Khan commands the Services Bureau and is responsible for the Communications Center, Records Division, Jail and the Professional Standards and Training Unit.
Khan has a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and will be completing a Master of Science degree in Law Enforcement and Public Safety leadership from University of San Diego in May 2022.
Fremont Age Well Center Crab Feed
On Friday, February 18 the Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth held their annual crab feed—in socially distanced drive-thru version. This fundraiser benefits the center’s Lakeside Café, which provides affordable or free meals for seniors.
Thank you to the sponsors and participants who helped make the event possible.
https://www.fremont.gov/351/Age-Well-Center-at-Lake-Elizabeth
Earth Day Poster & Writing Contest
Submitted by City of Hayward
City of Hayward is now accepting environmentally themed works of art from K-12th grade Hayward students as part of its annual “Earth Day Poster & Writing Contest.” Interested participants can submit an original poster, poem or essay about Earth Day for the chance to win up to $200 in gift cards.
The contest gives students an opportunity to express their views on water and energy conservation, renewable energy, active transportation, sustainable food, recycling and composting, a litter-free environment and environmental justice.
Two winners for poster entries and two winners for poem/essay entries will be selected from each grade category. The grade categories are: K to 1st grade, 2nd to 3rd grade, 4th to 5th grade, 6th to 8th grade, and 9th to 12th grade.
Entries will be judged on originality, clarity and expression of theme. In each category, first place winners will receive a $200 gift card and second place winners will receive a $150 gift card. Teachers of the winning students will also receive gift cards. Students who submit winning entries will be invited to attend a City Council meeting in April to receive their prize and a certificate of achievement from Mayor Barbara Halliday.
Poster & Writing Contest submissions are due Friday, March 18. To qualify, all participants must be Hayward residents, Hayward Unified School District students or students at a school within City of Hayward. Contest rules can be found on the City of Hayward website.
Earth Day Poster & Writing Contest
Deadline: Friday, March 18
https://www.hayward-ca.gov/your-environment/get-involved/earth-day-events/poster-and-writing-contest
Local actor wins Broadway accolades
Submitted by Hayward Chamber of Commerce
In honor of Black History Month, officials from Hayward Chamber of Commerce are recognizing former Hayward resident James Monroe Iglehart. He is well known for his Tony award-winning performance as the Genie in “Aladdin” on Broadway from 2014-2017.
Later, Iglehart took on the roles of Marquis de Lafayette and Thomas Jefferson in the Broadway company of “Hamilton” and can be heard in “As the Curtain Rises,” Broadways’ first original podcast soap opera.
In his early years, Iglehart found his love for singing at Palma Ceia Baptist Church in Hayward, with encouragement from his mother, who taught music at Tennyson High School. “My first solo was in church at age 5,” he said in an interview with Broadway’s Playbill. “I heard the applause and I was hooked. That’s where it all started.”
Iglehart met his wife Dawn in the Mt. Eden High School choir and, upon graduation, received a scholarship from California State University, Hayward/East Bay. After 12 years of making a name for himself in film, TV and theatrical productions, he was starring in “Aladdin.”
He told Playbill his advice for all aspiring performers: “Believe in yourself.”
80th anniversary of Japanese American Internments
Submitted by Cal State East Bay
February 19 marks the 80th anniversary of the signing of Executive Order 9066 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, which resulted in some 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry, 70,000 of them American citizens, being sent to live in one of the 10 Japanese internment camps.
“The signing of that executive order gave the government the right to remove people from their homes, disrupt their businesses and forced many to lose their property – solely based on their race,” said Linda Ivey, Cal State East Bay Professor of History. “This event was an egregious violation of civil rights. As a U.S. citizen, I want to understand how this happened in my country.”
Ivey co-authored two books about the Japanese Internment with Cal State East Bay History Professor Kevin Kaatz. Their most recent book, “Documents of the Japanese American Internment: Eyewitness to History,” was recently named to the 2022 Outstanding References Sources List by The Reference and User Services Association.
“One of the most surprising things was finding the speed at which all of this happened,” said Kaatz. “It was also interesting to learn about the depth internees went to in order to try to live a ‘normal’ life. Most of them were U.S. citizens, removed from everything and moved to very inhospitable places, but they attempted to make life as normal as possible.”
Ivey says many Americans don’t know much, if anything at all, about the Japanese internment because it was largely absent from our history classrooms and textbooks at least until the 1990s, but she encourages everyone to pay attention to history because it can help us put things into context – to see patterns of behavior and what those patterns could lead to.
“It is so essential that people understand that prejudice against ethnic groups within the United States is a longstanding tradition and one that we have not been able to shake,” said Ivey. “It is also essential to understand how quickly that kind of fear and hate can escalate into something as astoundingly awful as the Japanese internment was.”
Little Shoppe of Horrors pop-up
Submitted by The Menagerie Alameda
Meet us at the oddest Pop-up event in town February 27 as the Menagie’s traveling band of misfits joins the most unique little plant shop in the Bay Area: Magpie and Thorn.
This 2022 adaptation stars Miranda X, a rare and carnivorous plant on the tiny island of Alameda with a cast of odd and curious co-stars from near and far: Eternal Craft Designs, Haunted Manor Boutique, Gashly Tentacles, Feathered Outlaw, Big Top Sweet Shop, Sixth Sense Soy Candles, Black Widow Bottles, Ma Cheri Designs, MadMaggie’s Crafts and Curiosities, and The Menagerie Mobile Shoppe – plus Tarot reading and more.
The popup is an outdoor family and pet friendly event located next to the historic Towata Flowers building. We recommend masks, our vendors provide hand sanitizer and contactless payment options. Masks are required indoors at local shops. Enjoy the fun and stay for lunch at nearby restaurants.
This event is being hosted by Magpie and Thorn, a store specializing in the procurement of rare, strange and unusual plants, and unique gifts. Visit the
ir website: https://magpieandthorn.com/shop
Little Shoppe of Horrors pop-up
Sunday, Feb 27
12 noon – 5 p.m.
Towata Flowers Building
2305 Santa Clara Ave., Alameda
Corner of Oak & Santa Clara Ave
https://www.eventbrite.com/
www.themenagerieodditiesmarket.com
Gala Celebrates the Arts
Submitted by The League of Volunteers
Join us on Sunday, February 27th, for an afternoon of wonderful music!
The Virtuoso International Flute Ensemble (VIFE) is made up of several young, local musicians. Candra Kou is a 10th grader attending Mission San Jose High School in Fremont who has played the flute since she was 11 years old. Haidi Lim is violinist and an 8th grader at Amador Valley High School in Pleasanton. She has played the violin since the age of 5. Cara Wang will play the cello. She is the youngest in the quartet – a 6th grader at Gomes Elementary School in Fremont. She has played since she was 4 years old and has won various competitions. Oliver Corro will play the piano. He is a 9th grader at Irvington High School and has played since he was 3 years old. HE has placed 1st in five competitions around the world, including Japan. Judy Kan is the Director and Founder of VIFE, who dedicate their performances to the community.
The second group will be the Betty Gentry Dance Studio, directed by Traci Colon.
After intermission, listen to the Fremont Christian Dixie Dominus Jazz Band, under the direction of Thomas Banuelos. Thomas draws upon his personal experience while performing, an eclectic repertoire ranging from traditional jazz standards to “jazzed up” versions of pop tunes. This group has performed at international jazz festivals in Switzerland, Germany, France and Italy.
Doors open at 1:00 pm and the concert will begin at 2 pm. Admission is free with donations suggested at the door. Complimentary refreshments are served during intermission.
Sunday, February 27
33rd Annual Gala Celebrating the Arts
2 p.m.
Newark Junior High Multi-Purpose Auditorium
6201 Lafayette Street, Newark
(510) 793-5683
The Human Face of Homelessness – and Fremont’s Response
Submitted by The League of Women Voters Fremont, Newark, Union City
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be without housing? To sleep in the cold at night? To constantly worry someone would attack you or steal the few valuables you own? Well, after Mission High School student Veena Kommu read George Orwell’s book Down and Out in Paris and London, which describes life of the very poor in these two large cities, she decided to learn more about homeless people in her own community.
With the support of her family, last summer she began interviewing people who are homeless in Fremont, and their stories were so compelling that the Tri-City Voice published them in a series of articles entitled “The Human Face of Homelessness.” When asked what she now appreciates about homelessness, she stated, “I found homeless people often to be very kind and compassionate – at times, more so than others.”
As we all know, homelessness is on the rise in our area, as well as in many parts of the state and country. To shed light on the growing crisis, the League of Women Voters of Fremont, Newark, and Union City has invited two speakers to discuss this issue from very different angles in an online event on March 9.
Veena will share the unique stories she heard, as well as other insights she has gained. Suzanne Shenfil, City of Fremont Human Services Director, will describe what the City is doing to address the problem.
Sometimes when passing a person wrapped in blankets, sleeping on the street, or panhandling for money, do you ever say to yourself, “Why doesn’t the City do something for these people?” For more than 30 years, Suzanne Shenfil has been engaged in efforts to alleviate the plight of the homeless in our area. She has been instrumental in the development of Sunrise Village Emergency Shelter, Fremont’s Housing Navigation Center, the Winter Shelter Program, and the Mobile Hygiene Unit, as well as the establishment of the position of Crisis Intervention Specialist, who works with the Police Department, responding to community members experiencing a mental health crisis and are often homeless.
Furthermore, she has served on the Leadership Board of EveryOne Home, which works to end homelessness in Alameda County. When asked to describe some of the biggest obstacles to solving the homelessness problem, she states, “I wish people would understand that creating affordable supportive housing for homeless persons creates an asset for the community, it does not cause a deterioration of neighborhoods. We have had great success with the Navigation Center. The surrounding area remains very clean and safe, and the local businesses have been
genuinely pleased. Some now make substantial donations to the Center.”
Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your understanding of the circumstances facing people who are homeless, as well as how we, as a community, tackle this growing problem. As always there will be time allotted for your questions.
The Human Face of Homelessness
Wednesday, March 9
Advance registration required
The Things that Bind Us
Submitted by Lina Melkonian
Fremont Art Association is thrilled to feature Miki Shim and Lance Rutter as guest artists at its virtual General Meeting and Art Demo on Wednesday, March 2.
Life partners, Shim and Rutter are a creative powerhouse. While each has a unique background, magic happens when they unite to produce their exquisite ceramic works. In their demo, The Things that Bind Us, they will share their quarantine survival project, The Binding Bird. It’s the story of how a small bird strengthened their own bond, as well as brought them closer to loved ones. Through live demonstrations and photos, they will share their origin story and present details of their creative process.
Shim is an internationally recognized ceramic artist. Her decorative and functional pottery is marked by elegant surface textures and designs, sensitivity to lightness and proportion, and respect for the Earth. Most recently Shim has gained attention for her work exploring the culture of tea. In 2017 and 2019, Shim was one of four American potters invited to participate in the “Hong Guang Zi Qi” International Ceramic Art Cultural Exchange Week in YiXing, China. Today she balances her time between her studio work with teaching at Clayroom SF, Wilson Park Ceramics Studio and Palo Alto Art Center where she also serves as Adult Studios Program Coordinator.
Rutter is currently Senior Vice President of Design at Quantifind. His 40-year career as a designer and artist includes founding and creative directing of his own agency. Rutter has won numerous awards, and his posters have been exhibited as part of international exhibitions in a dozen countries. Today, his various artistic endeavors include working in the studio with his wife and exploring the relationship between clay and fire.
Join Miki Shim and Lance Rutter’s demo and get swept up in their story of “partners in clay.” The meeting will be held via Zoom. Participants must register in advance and will receive the link via email.
You may view Shim and Rutter’s works or get in touch at:
Instagram: @MikiSR_Ceramics, @lance_a_rutter
Facebook: MSR_Ceramics
email: [email protected]
Fremont Art Association general meeting/demo artist
Wednesday, Mar 2
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Via Zoom; provided upon registration
https://www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo
Free
Pan-African Flag
Submitted by City of Hayward
City of Hayward will hold a first raising of the Pan-African flag on City Hall Plaza at noon on Tuesday, February 22, in commemoration of Black History month and to begin a new tradition of recognition of the African Diaspora and struggles for Black liberation, freedom and equity.
The flag-raising ceremony will be led by Hayward elected and community leaders. The event is open to the public and will be documented and shared across City social media accounts, YouTube and KHRT cable TV streaming and broadcast channels.
The Pan-African flag was created in 1920 by the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA). It is a symbol of freedom for Black people and descendants of those who were subject to the slave-trade movement of Africans to the United States and the Americas and later migrations from the African continent to other parts of the world.
Each color of the flag has special meaning – red, for blood shed by Africans in fights for liberation and the shared blood of African people; black, representative of Black people; and green, symbolic of growth and the natural fertility of Africa.
With the ceremony on Tuesday, the city begins a practice – reflective of its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion – of flying the Pan-African flag each year during Black History Month, on Juneteenth and on August 17, the birthday of Marcus Garvey, Jamaican-born civil-rights activist, publisher, entrepreneur and founder of UNIA.
Real Estate Notebook: Unseasonably Hot Market for Buyers and Sellers
By David Stark, Chief Public Affairs Officer, Bay East Association of REALTORS®
Homebuyers need to be ready for unseasonably warm weather in the Tri-Cities real estate markets.
“It’s been hot even since December and hasn’t died down,” said Sheila Cunha, 2022 President of the Bay East Association of REALTORS®. “It feels more like the spring or summer and not a traditional ‘slow’ winter sales season.”
A single-family detached home was on the market in Fremont an average of 13 days during January 2022 compared to 21 days during January 2021. In Newark, it was nine days compared to ten days during last January. In Union City it was also 13 days which was an increase from eight days during January 2021. However, that was still a very short period for a home to be on the market during the early part of the year
The lightning-fast pace of home sales is remarkable given that January is historically one of the slowest months of the year for real estate activity. It shows the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the “seasonal” nature of real estate.
No longer are homebuyers waiting until the Spring or Summer to enter the market. They are recognizing there are few homes for sale and jumping in when it is right for them and not based on the calendar.
With 35% fewer homes for sale in Fremont compared with January 2021, aggressive buyers pushed sales prices up by 27% to more than $1.6 million. The increase was more dramatic in Union City where prices rose 47% to $1.5 million. Prices in Newark topped more than $1.3 million which represented a 17% increase compared with January 2021.
With such limited supply and at historically high prices, Cunha said that buyers need to do their homework. Specifically, “they need to be pre-approved and ready to go, and they need to know what they can afford to purchase.”
She shared that while buyers may be enthusiastic, they also need to recognize that the homebuying experience in the Tri-Cities will be a challenge and could become even more difficult if mortgage interest rates begin to increase.
For sellers, even in a market with limited supply, Cunha emphasized that they should be prepared, as well. “Make sure your home is ready, do the work, get your inspections, and know what you need to do to get the most,” she said. “Location is one factor but not the only factor; the condition of the home is important, too.”
Call to all performers
Submitted by SAVE
SAVE’s annual International Women’s Day celebration is scheduled for Tuesday, March 8th this year.
If we were to gather in person, it would be a community event filled with music, dance and laughter. This year will be slightly different, but with the same spirit! We will share cultural performances on social media channels to celebrate the amazing artists in our community.
If you would like to participate or know someone who would be interested; we invite you to submit a short original video of the performance – spoken word, skit, dance or song on the theme of women’s empowerment. Individual and group performances are all welcome.
Please submit your performance to Emily Anderson, our Community Engagement Manager, at [email protected] before March 2nd. We look forward to a day of celebrating women’s talents in our community.
Serving through skincare
By Nanki Kau
As society discovers more about building healthy lifestyles, skincare has become a focal point for many. Priyanka Shah, a sophomore at Mission San Jose High School in Fremont, was introduced to essential oils and maintaining holistic lifestyles early on in her childhood. When her mother’s friend, who is familiar with essential oils, came to visit, Shah was intrigued and decided to take the opportunity to learn more about natural ingredients and their uses.
Essential oils, which are naturally derived from plants, are often used in Aromatherapy, a practice that uses these oils for therapeutic purposes. When used on the skin they can provide relief for ailments. Shah and her close friend and business partner, Reya Lakhani, started their own holistic skincare line, Soul-ly. “The benefits that essential oils [have] really sparked interest in me, which is why I started [Soul-ly]!” says Shah.
Shah’s products go through a thorough development and testing process. Once created, products are tested with a close circle of family and friends with varying skin types to gather information to perfect the formula. Soul-ly is run entirely online through the social media platform Instagram, where customers are able to view the variety of all-natural products available. Customers can then fill out a simple Google Form on the Instagram page to place their orders. Orders in the Fremont or Los Altos areas are delivered to customers’ doorsteps, while all other orders are shipped.
Additionally, Soul-ly donates a portion of its profits. “We like to support causes that affect [Bay Area communities],” Shah explains. “[Previously], we’ve donated $768 to Oxfam India, to help the COVID crisis they were facing due to the Delta Variant. Many Bay Area residents have families in India that were affected by this crisis, but they were unable to see [their loved ones]. So, we felt it would be good to support them through our venture.”
Though social media and modern technology have made a world of difference in running t
he business smoothly, living so far apart from one another made it difficult for the partners to develop the business together. “With Reya living in Los Altos and me living in Fremont,” Shah describes, “it was initially hard to commute often. However, as time went on, we were able to find time to make that commute as we knew it was necessary if we wanted to keep the business alive.” The two also found great success using online meeting platforms, such as Zoom, to keep in touch and keep the business operating efficiently.
Shah hopes to reach a broader audience to show the benefits of incorporating natural ingredients and essential oils into their lifestyles. “Showing people the difference that completely natural skincare along with essential oils has on your skin is my goal for our business. Also, donating to more organizations that are really important to us [is another goal],” she shares. Her advice to teenagers who also aspire to start a business is to “just go for it. You never know where your passion lies. [It’s important to expose] yourself to different things and if you find your niche, where you feel you’re really interested, just go for it, do it, you never know how far it can go and what you can learn from it.”
StarStruck summer camps
Submitted by StarStruck
Applications for StarStruck’s 3-week Summer Performance Camps are now open. This summer we are bringing back our successful 1-week “StarKids” camps for ages 8-12. Returning students 10-14 years old will also be happy to hear our “StageStruck” performance camps have been extended to three weeks. More experienced teens 14+ will want to learn about upcoming auditions for our Summer Teen MainStage – Les Misérables.
Set your alarm:
3-week camp applications are now open, but will close March 1st at midnight.
1-week camp registration opens March 8 at 10 a.m.
StageStruck! (Ages 10-14)
3-week performance camps for intermediate to advanced actors.
After passing an audition/application, each group of StageStruck campers will work with StarStruck teaching artists to rehearse and perform Honk Jr. at the StarStruck Studio. A heartwarming re-telling of Hans Christian Andersen’s “The Ugly Duckling,” Honk! Jr. is a celebration of being different that is sure to delight audiences of all ages with its sparkling wit, unique charm and memorable score.
Tuition: $1,000 per camp session
Audition applications open through March 1, 2022
StarKids! (Ages 8-12)
1-week performance camps from beginner to intermediate.
Explore the world of musical theatre with a guest instructor as we learn songs, dances and scenes from some of your favorite musicals. Each week will have a new theme, so campers are welcome to sign up for multiple sessions.
Tuition: $500 per session
Register online beginning March 8; 10 a.m.
Summer MainStage (Ages 14-18)
MainStage musical production for advanced teens.
StarStruck Theatre will continue its return to the stage with the 8-time Tony Award winning musical, Les Misérables. Based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel, Les Misérables tells the epic story of adversity, love and redemption.
Tuition: $700 + $150 Costume Fee
Auditions (Ages 14-18): February 23 – 26
Auditions (Ages 10-13): February 22 & 23
All in person camps will adhere to current CDC and Alameda County guidelines. We have two completely separate large warehouses each with their own bathroom and entrances, so StageStruck and StarKids camps will not interact. During camp hours we will have our roll up doors open and air purifiers on. We will also sanitize generously before, during and after each camp.
Summer 2022 Campers are required to be fully vaccinated, no exceptions. All StarStruck staff and teaching assistants are also fully vaccinated and boosted. Students should be prepared to wear a mask for all rehearsals and performances, but this is subject to change.
For questions or concerns, email Courtney at [email protected]
https://starstrucktheatre.org/
Celebrating Black History Month: Taylor P. Collins
Submitted by Hayward Chamber of Commerce
Taylor P. Collins is not only an honored blues musician, but she has been an outstanding advocate for Hayward, as well.
As 2020 Hayward Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Year, Taylor connected with dozens of businesses to assess their needs and to be sure they knew about the chamber’s many services and programs.
As a renowned blues singer and recording artist, Taylor and her band have performed at prestigious music events such as San Jose International Jazz Festival, Northern California Entertainers Music Awards Show, and Monterey International Blues Festival. Collins’ latest single is Strong, Confident Woman.
Walt Jacobs, Ph.D., named Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
Submitted by Cal State East Bay
Walt Jacobs, Ph.D., has accepted the position of Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Cal State East Bay. He will begin his new post on July 1, 2022.
“I am impressed by Dr. Jacobs’ collaborative leadership style and his commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging,” said President Cathy Sandeen. “His experience in the classroom, service on national leadership councils and role as a thought leader will help elevate Cal State East Bay’s research, scholarship and creative activities, which are all high-impact practices that directly support student success.”
Jacobs said he is honored to join a community so committed to working together toward students’ and the university’s success.
“Our ultimate goal is student success, which includes helping students to recognize the things they do better than anything else while establishing pathways for them,” Jacobs said. “I see myself as a ‘Chief Enabling Officer,’ where my job is to facilitate discussion about which initiatives are feasible, build consensus about the best possibilities, clear the road of obstacles, and motivate everyone on the trek to realize our objectives.”
Jacobs has served as the dean of the College of Social Sciences at San José State University since 2015. Prior to his arrival in California, he was the founding dean of the College of Social Sciences and Professional Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. Earlier, Jacobs was on the faculty of the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities for 14 years, including five years as chair of the department of African American & African Studies.
He received his B.S. degree in electrical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology, and his M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in sociology from Indiana University-Bloomington.
Jacobs said he was drawn to the Provost opportunity because he knows many people with connections to Cal State East Bay who shared with him the campus’ deep commitment to collaboration and innovation.
“The East Bay is my home,” shared Jacobs. “I live in Oakland and am excited about the ability to deepen my roots by getting more involved in activities with Cal State East Bay’s community partners.”
Community Tree Planting
Submitted by Lynn Miller
Those traveling by Washington High School in Fremont will notice a significant change of the streetscape. Powered by Washington Husky student volunteers, directed by Tri-City Urban Forest Alliance tree planting coaches, and sponsored by City of Fremont CAL FIRE grant funds, Blue Oaks and Gingko biloba trees now line Fremont Boulevard and Eggers Drive. The final phase of t
he three-Saturday project along Fremont Boulevard was completed February 19. During the previous Saturday work parties, 43 Blue Oaks and Rosebud trees were planted along Country Drive.
Coordinator Lynn Miller says that student enthusiasm has been “phenomenal” with many returning for all three days of volunteering. She added, “We all want to help take action on Climate Change, to shade our concrete urban areas, and provide beauty and habitat for pollinators and birds.” Washington High School Principal Robert Moran joined the effort and expressed his excitement about beautification of the campus and his students’ participation in this community improvement project.
For more information about further tree planting beautification projects, contact Lynn Miller at:
[email protected]
BART Police Log
Submitted by Les Mensinger and BART PD
Saturday, February 12
- At 10:25 p.m. a man identified by police as John Owens, 40, of Oakland was arrested at Fremont station on a no-bail warrant issued by the California Department of Corrections charging parole violation. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Monday, February 14
- At 1:44 p.m. a man identified by police as Emer Isaac Mercado-Irigoyen, 23, of San Francisco was arrested at Castro Valley station on suspicion of walking on railroad tracks. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
- At 6:52 p.m. a woman identified by police as Yvette Cervantes, 40, of Hayward was arrested at Hayward station on a warrant issued by Hayward Police Department charging the taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent. She was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Wednesday, February 16
- At 2:48 p.m. a woman identified by police as Rachelle Bringham 38, of Dublin was arrested at Castro Valley station on suspicion of domestic battery. She was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Fremont Fire Department Log
Submitted by Fremont Fire Department
Thursday, February 17
- At 7:27 a.m. firefighters responded to a report about a fire at Air Liquide, 46401 Landing Parkway. Before fire crews arrived, employees tried to extinguish a fire in a contained area at the site which later burned itself out. Upon arrival, firefighters saw smoke coming from an air ventilator. A precautionary shelter-in-place was put into effect after reports about a possible chemical spill and hazardous chemicals escaping from a building were received. The order was lifted at 12:45 p.m. when the chemical spill was not verified. There were no reports of injuries and the cause of the incident is under investigation.
Fremont Police Log
Submitted by Yanneth Contrada, Fremont PD
Wednesday, February 2
- At about 1:40 p.m. a robbery occurred at Walmart, 44009 Osgood Road when a male exited the store with items he had not paid for. When staff asked him for his receipt, the male pulled out a gun and pointed it at them. The suspect left the store after the gun’s magazine fell out and onto the floor.
Thursday, February 3
- At about 4:16 a.m. a commercial burglary occurred at Metro PCS, 4949-M Stevenson Blvd. when someone pried open the front door to the business and removed several phones and electronic items.
Saturday, February 5
- At about 4:10 p.m. a robbery occurred at OM Liquor and Groceries, 4962 Paseo Padre Parkway when two males entered the store and pointed a gun at the victim and demanded the victim open the cash register. The suspects took several items from the store and fled.
Sunday, February 6
- Between 12:05 a.m. and 12:25 a.m. multiple businesses in the area of Grimmer, Washington and Fremont boulevards in the Irvington area were burglarized when someone shattered the front doors or windows with rocks and targeted cash registers. Business hit were: Shiva Beauty, Halal Wings, Tandoori N Curry, Passion Hair, and Edible Arrangements.
Please keep bold and italic text.
Police Department launches Virtual Academy Program
By Alfred Hu
Hayward Police Department (HPD) is offering Virtual Academy Program, a free four-week seminar via Zoom to gain insight into how the police force works. Seminars are on Wednesdays during February. Community leaders, neighborhood watch leaders, elected officials and students pursuing a career in criminal justice have joined the course in the past.
For the February 16, seminar, speakers included Det. Jenn Kell, Sgt. Angela Irizarry, Det. Gaby Wright and Ofc. Lawrence La Strape
Topics covered:
- Homicide/Major Crimes Unit team conducts investigations on homicides, major assaults, missing persons, hate crimes and incidents, Officer Involved Shootings (OIS), arsons and suspicious deaths. Hayward has on average 9 – 12 homicides per year and 6 – 7 suspicious deaths.
Homicides and assault are violent crimes against a person leading to massive bodily injury or death. Missing persons are people whose whereabouts are unknown to the reporting party and include children who ran away or were taken involuntarily. Police and sheriff’s departments throughout California must accept any report of a missing person without delay and handle it with high priority. Arson death investigations can involve working with Hayward Fire Department (HFD) and can lead to a felony murder case. Hate crimes are any criminal act resulting in injury, vandalism, death or threatening behavior due to the victim’s race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation or country of origin, while a hate incident is any action or behavior motivated by hate or bigotry but protected by First Amendment. Examples include hate speech, display of offensive material on a property or distribution of hate materials in public places. OIS involves incidents where officers discharge a firearm and are handled by Criminal Investigation (if suspect is in question), Administrative Investigation (if officer is in question) and the California Department of Justice.
During a crime investigation, investigators interview victims, gather evidence for search warrants and court orders, interview suspects and present findings to the District Attorney (DA) office. Common challenges are absence of victims to interview, dealing with angry or hesitant family or friends of victims, and possibility of victim being involved in gangs and drugs.
- The Special Victims Unit (SVU) provides training and resources to law enforcement toward investigation, prosecution and prevention of sex crimes against children, domestic violence, child and elder abuse, and monitoring of sex registrants. In a typical SVU investigation, patrol officers gather statements from victims, collect evidence of suspected abuse and send the report to HPD. SVU follows up by gathering statements from family and friends of victims, reviewing evidence, collecting DNA samples for analysis, and then contacting the suspect(s). The case can be unfounded, lead to suspect’s arrest, or be sent to the DA office as a complaint.
Since 2020, cases of child abuse and domestic violence increased due to the pandemic when people stayed home. To report child abuse, the Suspected Child Abuse Report (Pursuant to Penal Code 11166) form must be filled out within 36 hours of the incident and sent to HPD. One in five women and one in seven men report having experienced severe physical violence from an intimate partner, while 10 percent of women and two percent of men report being stalked. Domestic violence also includes kidnapping, fals
e imprisonment, restraining order violation and damage to personal property.
- Vice Intelligence Unit works to prevent crimes such as prostitution, human trafficking and illegal gambling; enforces tobacco ordinances; and monitors massage parlors, alcohol establishments and cannabis dispensaries. Human trafficking is abducting, transporting, and selling or receiving people for purposes such as slavery, prostitution and cheap illegal labor. Pimps (people who manage prostitutes and collect money for their services) often use social media to promise young unsuspecting girls a lavish lifestyle or pretend to be their boyfriend.
Fortunately, several online escort websites were already taken down. Hotels, motels, traffic stops, bars, schools and restaurants also serve as locations where traffickers do their work. Businesses suspicious of such illicit activity on their premises are urged to contact police immediately. Some signs of trafficking are: people being absent from school, having bruises or tattoos from branding, having an unusual amount of money, and suddenly wearing new expensive clothing and jewelry.
- HPD Gang Investigations works to investigate and prosecute gang-related crimes. Hayward has zones operated by different gangs. These gangs frequently use social media for networking, intimidating, posting information on drug and firearms sales and maintaining membership affiliation. Gangs also use locations known as Trap Houses to sell drugs and firearms. Motorcycle gangs also engage in narcotics and firearms sales; Red Nation, Viking and Henchmen are some motorcycle gangs police have identified. Officer safety when apprehending such gangs calls for the rider to stay on the bike, requesting cover unit, and looking for insignia and weapons.
Learn more about HPD at: hayward-ca.gov.
Newark Police Log
Submitted by Newark PD
Sunday, January 16
- At 7:43 a.m. officers responded to a report of an assault with a deadly weapon (not a firearm) in the 5000 block of Stevenson Blvd. At the scene, they arrested a 39-year-old man on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon. He was booked at Santa Rita Jail.
- At 7:52 a.m. officers responded to a report of a disturbance and vandalism in the 35000 block of Dumbarton Court. The female suspect fled the scene before officers arrived, but was later found in the area of Thornton Avenue and Newark Boulevard. She admitted to officers she was involved in the vandalism. She was arrested on suspicion of vandalism, obstructing a peace officer and a probation violation, then booked at Santa Rita Jail.
Monday, January 17
- At 3:33 a.m. officers investigated a vandalism and battery report in the 6000 block of Jarvis Ave. When officers arrived, multiple people fled the scene leading officers on a chase. Officers ultimately caught up with three men, ages 25, 21 and 18, all from Fremont. All three were arrested on suspicion of battery, vandalism, obstructing a peace officer and found property and were booked at Santa Rita Jail.
Thursday, January 20
- At 2:56 p.m. Officer Rivas investigated a bicycle theft in the 7000 block of Peachtree Ave. During their investigation, officers met a 27-year-old Newark man and were able to locate the bicycle and return it to its owner. The case was sent to the District Attorney’s Office for consideration of a theft charge.
Sunday, January 23
- At 6:48 p.m. Officer Torres responded to a report of a shoplifter in custody and in possession of a gun in the 200 block of NewPark Mall Road. Torres arrested a 37-year-year old man on suspicion of carrying a loaded firearm in public, possession of a controlled substance, and shoplifting. The man also had multiple outstanding warrants; he was booked at Santa Rita Jail.
Friday, January 28
- At 7:56 p.m. Officer Swadener investigated an armed robbery that had just occurred in the 5000 block of Mowry Ave. The incident is still under investigation.
Saturday, January 29
- At 9:36 p.m. Officer Kapu investigated a report about an unprovoked battery that occurred in the 5000 block of Jarvis Ave. Officers located the suspect, identified as a 40-year-old Newark man and arrested him on suspicion of battery. He was booked at Santa Rita Jail.
Catalytic converter thefts from vehicles:
- January 20: 6000 block of Joaquin Murieta Ave.; January 21: 36000 block of Cherry St. (two thefts); January 29: 36000 block of Sandalwood St.; January 31: 39000 block of Potrero Drive and 39000 block of Balentine Drive.
Online police activity platforms go live
Submitted by San Leandro Police Department
Two new public data sharing platforms that provide citizens with the ability to view police calls for service are now available in San Leandro.
The new tools, which are free to access, include a mobile Chatbot App and an interactive web browser dashboard. They were launched in mid-February in a partnership between the San Leandro Police Department and the City of San Leandro. Both tools give users the ability to filter police calls for service by date, call type, call disposition, and for calls within several pre-built geographical boundaries.
The CityDash web browser dashboard provides the unique ability for users to download call-for-service data and search for unique values such as case numbers and street names.
The CityChat Mobile app provides information about police calls for service and allows users to create notifications for calls that occur within their chosen geographical boundary, such as the area around their home or work. Notifications are sent daily to users’ phones and provide the number of calls reported in their desired notification location. The chat function in the mobile app is available in English and Spanish with Mandarin and Cantonese coming soon.
All data in the app and web browser is updated hourly and contains all police calls for service except for confidential calls. Both tools will also allow citizens to view information about city permits and information on the city’s MySL (My San Leandro) website which includes 311 data, code enforcement issues and city-wide maintenance issues.
The CityDash web browser can be found at citydash.ai/insights/san_leandro_ca. The CityChat mobile app is available for Android and Apple iPhone users and can be downloaded at citychat.ai.
Athletic Director of the Year
Submitted by Hayward Unified School District
Hayward High School Athletic Director Kristy Prasad has been awarded California State Athletic Director Association’s (CSADA) North Coast Section (NCS) Athletic Director of the Year. In her role as athletic director (AD), Prasad manages the interscholastic athletic programs at Hayward High School, which consists of 13 sports programs, 27 teams and over 450 student-athletes. Prasad began her role as AD in 2011 after joining Hayward High as an educator in 2002.
As a former basketball player and track and field star, Prasad carries the values and lessons that she learned and instills them into each of her 450 student-athletes. “Sports are a vehicle for change on so many levels,” she said. “Used correctly, kids learn life skills and create strong bonds and relationships that can influence them for the rest of their lives.”
Prasad began her career at Hayward High as an intern, fresh out of college, and has been there ever since. “I was so young when I started, only four years older than the seniors on campus. I learned to be an adult here,” said Prasad. “I have grown up here.”
Her accomplishments have not only been recognized b
y CSADA, but at her home base as well. “I cannot think of a more deserving recipient for this award than Ms. Prasad,” said Hayward High School Principal Dave Seymour. “She has worked tirelessly over the years facilitating our entire athletics program, always advocating for all of our student-athletes.”
Cougars’ soccer first round win
By April Ramos
Newark Memorial High School’s boys’ varsity soccer team played their first round of North Coast Section (NCS) Boys Soccer Championship against Concord High School of Diablo Athletic League, on February 15.
The Cougars began the game with dominance, but could not get past Concord Minutemen’s strong defensive wall. After much persistence, Nate Medrano #20, of Newark Memorial took the ball up the left wing of the field and crossed it to Izeyah Romo #15, who shot the ball into the top right corner of the goal, putting the Cougars in the lead.
Concord came out of half-time eager for a goal of their own. They took five promising shots at goal, but the ball was stopped each time by Cougar’s goalie. With no luck for the Minutemen, the final score was 1-0, sending Newark Memorial Cougars into the next round of NCS playoffs against Richmond High School.
Huskies shoot past Tamalpais Hawks
By Angela Xiong
On February 16, Washington High School Huskies (Fremont) went head-to-head against Tamalpais High School Red-Tailed Hawks (Mill Valley) in their first round of North Coast Section (NCS) Girls’ Basketball Championships. Both teams aimed to secure the NCS quarterfinals spot.
The Red-Tailed Hawks immediately dominated the court, racking up 8 consecutive points, and maintained their strong lead in the first quarter. In the second quarter, the Hawks continued to make steady gains, but the Huskies persevered. With less than 1 second left in the second quarter, Washington made a 3-point half-court shot bringing the score to 19-31, Hawks still in the lead.
Washington slowly gained momentum and ended the 3rd quarter with a score of 34-40. At the start of the 4th quarter, the Huskies continued driving up the score 40-42. The Hawks’ two-point lead continued to shrink until the Huskies surpassed Tamalpais. Washington began to gradually widen their lead with another three-point shot bringing the score to 56-49. As the initial underdogs of the game, Washington secured the win against the Hawks. Final score: Huskies 62, Hawks 54.
“We focused a lot on our defense at practice, and I’m really glad we did, because at half-time, that’s when it kicked in [and] we played amazing after that” Varsity Captain Chloe Dang said. Washington Huskies will be moving onto the NCS quarterfinals on February 19 against Acalanes High School (Lafayette).
Colts soccer goes into overtime
By April Ramos
On Wednesday, February 16, James Logan High School’s (Union City) girls’ varsity soccer team played Maria Carrillo High School (Santa Rosa) to fight for a spot in the quarterfinals of the North Coast Section (NCS) Girls’ Soccer Championship.
Maria Carrillo Pumas did not waste any time, scoring the first goal of the game just four minutes after the kick-off. Logan Colts reacted and put pressure on the Pumas. After getting possession of the ball, Logan’s Liliana Larez #15, weaved through Carrillo’s defense with skilled footwork, scoring their first goal at the 13-minute mark, tying the game 1-1. Carrillo did not back down, making two close calls at a goal. Nevertheless, the Colts kept up their energy and scored a second goal seven minutes before ending the first half.
Coming out of half time, Logan continued to dominate the field, but a slip in their defense gave the Pumas the opportunity to make their second goal at the 21-minute mark, once again tying the game 2-2. After a few good attempts at goal and a missed penalty kick from Logan, the game was pushed into overtime with two 10-minute halves. Both teams were desperate for possession. In a sudden steal, Carrillo brings the ball down field and shoots the ball into the top right corner of the net with only a minute felt on the match. With a final score of 2-3, James Logan was eliminated from NCS Championship play.
Editorial
Gordian Knot
In 333 B.C., Alexander of Macedonia was determined to conquer Gordium, capital of Phygria (Turkey). Arriving at the city, he was confronted by a wagon yoke tied with a knot deemed impossible to unravel. Tradition held that whomever untangled the knot would rule all of Asia. Not one to ignore such a challenge, Alexander [the Great], having no success in untangling the knot, drew his sword and sliced it open, thereby solving the puzzle through ingenuity and brute force. He went on to occupy Egypt and much of Asia.
The term “Gordian Knot” has become synonymous with an extremely difficult, if not impossible, problem that defies easy solutions. However, just as Alexander used an alternative to his challenge, sometimes the answer to thorny problems can be found in alternative strategies that although not immediately visible, yield to decisive action. One such dilemma currently facing many civic jurisdictions is the redistricting process.
Each time a new census is taken – every ten years – shifts in demographics are recorded and political boundaries are reassessed to determine if changes are necessary to accurately reflect proper representation. Although a theoretical goal is clear, the process and parameters are not. Each locale faces a unique set of challenges to adequately apportion voters. Demographics can be extremely variable depending upon how they are applied. Since power, prestige and money are often the result of political influence, the stakes are high. The result is a Gordian Knot of interwoven, inseparable considerations that may often be at odds with each other.
Currently, Fremont, among other civic jurisdictions, is facing the redistricting dilemma. The city is instructed to adhere to a variety of federal, state and “traditional” factors when apportioning council representation. Public hearings, resident and council suggestions have been previously offered, but with each proposal, geographic and boundary issues have arisen. Conflicts between boundary continuity, school districts, future population growth and “communities of interest” are especially difficult to resolve when addressing compact populations. Artificial divisions – a slice of the sword – are inevitable under such scenarios.
Several proposals have been selected for review and further modification but all depend on compromise between competing factors. Where some communities within Fremont begin and end is unclear, further complicating possible solutions. For instance, the boundary of Centerville is opaque as opposed to the geographical distinction of Niles. Irvington and Mission San Jose also faces some of the same challenges. Explosive growth in Warm Springs and South Fremont are future factors to consider as well.
Many interesting and salient points have been raised through prior input by and to the council at public hearings. The last hearing on February 15, 2022 was enlightening and, for those late to the discussion, worth watching. Visit www.fremont.gov to find the council meeting recording.
Before the Gordian Knot of redistricting is sliced open, the public has a final opportunity to partially unravel its weave. One public hearing remains on March 1st as well as an open forum at https://redistrictfremont.gov. A final decision (map) is required by April 17, 2022 so there is no time to waste.
