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Experience HumanEssence at City of Fremont’s Olive Hyde Art Gallery
Submitted by City of Fremont
The City of Fremont’s historic Olive Hyde Art Gallery proudly presents HumanEssence – a photography exhibition featuring portraits by Suszi Lurie McFadden and abstracts by Brandon Stauffer. This collaboration showcases McFadden’s lively portraits which capture “the essence of human expression,” pairing with Stauffer’s abstracts providing “alternative yet complementary perspective.” With this series, McFadden and Stauffer “illustrate how representational and abstract images can convey the same emotional resonance.”
McFadden is an award-winning portrait photographer and owner of Suz McFadden Photo based in Sunnyvale. Stauffer is an artist and photographer based in Palo Alto who develops and utilizes experimental techniques to capture his abstracts. HumanEssence was previously on view during the spring of 2023 at Wheelhouse of Willow Glen in San Jose. McFadden and Stauffer have since added to their collection and will debut new photographs in the exhibition at Olive Hyde.
McFadden and Stauffer will be giving an in-person artist talk at Olive Hyde Art Gallery on Friday, April 19 at 12 noon. All are invited to attend to learn more about the making of HumanEssence and both photographers’ artistic processes.
The opening reception of HumanEssence will be Friday, April 12 from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. This is a free event open to all, and membership is not required to attend. All are invited to meet the artists and enjoy the evening with fellow art enthusiasts.
Sponsorship Funding by Olive Hyde Art Guild
Human Essence
Thursday, Apr 4 – Saturday, May 25
Opening Reception
Friday, April 12
7 p.m. – 9 pm
Artist Talk
Friday, April 19
12 noon
Olive Hyde Art Gallery
123 Washington Blvd., Fremont
Open Th-Su; 12 noon – 5 p.m. during exhibitions
(510) 791-4357
bit.ly/FremontOHAG
olivehydeartguild.org
Newark Symphonic Winds Spring Concert
Submitted by Jim Carter
On Saturday, March 30, enjoy an evening of symphonic music provided free of charge by the Tri-Cities’ own 50 musician symphony—the Newark Symphonic Winds—directed by Richard Wong.
We’ll begin this evening jumping back to the 60s with a medley of tunes by the Doors, with “Doors on Tour,” arranged by Patrick Rozell. From there we will drop back a bit further to 1927 by performing Hoagy Carmichael’s “Stardust.” James Horner was one of the most prolific film composers of our time, and in his honor we’ll perform a composition from the movie Avatar. We’ll end the first half of our performance with a lively composition by Camille Saint-Saëns, “Dance Bacchanale.” We hope this will encourage you out to our intermission treats!
After intermission we are proud to present the music of the Montecito Brass. Their musicians include Mike Peterson on trumpet and flugelhorn; Alan Osofsky on trumpet, flugelhorn, and cornet; Blossom Santiago on horn; and Raul Dingle on tuba and bass trombone. Their tunes include Makin’ Whoopee; Thaxted; I Vow to Thee, My Country; Oh God Beyond All Praising; and a Classical Medley.
The symphony will then return to the stage and perform Leroy Anderson’s The Girl in Satin, then Into the West from Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King. We’ll end this performance with a medley of the most magnificent music of Rogers and Hammerstein in, The Golden Age of Broadway.
This FREE performance (no tickets are necessary) is sponsored by the Fremont Bank Foundation.
Newark Symphonic Winds Spring Concert
Saturday, Mar 30
7 p.m.
Newark Memorial High School Theatre
39375 Cedar Blvd., Newark
(510) 552-7186
Primavera Century
Submitted by Becky Denevan
Fremont Freewheelers Bicycle Club (FFBC) is offering the 52nd Primavera Century on Sunday, April 21. We have a ride for everyone! There are three different long distant routes for the more experienced cyclist, and a shorter, flat ride for those who just want to have fun. Here is what we offer:
Long-distance Routes:
100-mile, 85-mile, 100 km
Start time: 6:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.
Registration $110
Fun Ride:
25 mile
Start time 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Registration: $40 Adult (16 and over), $20 Child (15 and under)
Registration includes:
Fully stocked rest stops with snacks, water, and a place to rest; end of ride food trucks; goodie bags; clothes drops for you to take off extra layers at three rest stops; and medals for kids completing the Fun Ride. Plus, no-cost transfers and the ability to change routes (except Fun Ride) during the ride.
All rides are fully supported with SAGs to provide support and gear should you need assistance, and bicycle mechanics at rest stops.
New Route:
We’ve listened to riders and have brought back our traditional route that once again includes Niles and Palomares Canyons, but in reverse order. The route features less urban riding, maximized right turns, and fewer turns in general. Riders will go through Niles Canyon early, continue north on Palomares, travel out Calaveras Road and then cycle down The Wall. We plan to have CHP present in the canyon.
The ride starts from Ohlone College and proceeds north on Mission Boulevard to Niles Canyon. Then, it’s up the Canyon, turning left on Palomares Road. Paloma
res Road is exactly 10 miles long with the summit of the 1100-foot climb at exactly five miles. The steepest portion is at the beginning, so don’t despair. There are also two wineries along the way up. After the top, it’s a quick descent to the first rest stop at Palomares Elementary School.
The same beautiful country:
The route travels through vineyards south and west of the town of Livermore. There are several roads with bike/hike trails parallel to them. Feel free to ride them.
The Fun Ride will also start and end at Ohlone College, proceeding along the Alameda County trail. It is fully supported with SAG and a rest stops too.
Return to Fremont:
The route goes through the Warm Springs district of Fremont, then back to Ohlone College along Mission Boulevard. You will finish the route along a stand of olive trees back at Hyman Hall. A variety of food trucks will provide choices for a nice warm meal. Various beverages including nonalcoholic beer will be included.
The deadline to register is April 16. Visit the FFBC website or go to https://ffbc.org/primavera/primavera-registration/ to secure your spot.
We look forward to seeing you on April 21, at the 2024 Primavera Century ride!
Primavera Century
Sunday, Apr 21
6:30 a.m. Long Distance
10 a.m. Fun Ride
Hyman Hall at Ohlone College
3600 Mission Blvd., Fremont
Registration: $20 – $110
Wildlife rehabilitation is going batty at Sulphur Creek Nature Center
Submitted by Nicole Espinoza Roa
Amidst the recent storms, a California Myotis bat found itself disoriented and in need of assistance. Prompt action by a vigilant member of the public led to the bat’s safe arrival at Sulphur Creek Nature Center for care and rehabilitation.
Thankfully, upon examination, the bat displayed no signs of illness or injury, indicating it likely just needed a little time to recuperate. Under the expert care of Sulphur Creek’s dedicated staff, the bat received the necessary attention and tender loving care (TLC). After a brief period of monitoring and rehabilitation, the bat was successfully released back into its natural habitat, ready to resume its vital role in the local ecosystem.
California is home to a diverse array of bat species, with twenty-five varieties found throughout the state. These remarkable mammals play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, serving as efficient pest controllers and, in some cases, as essential pollinators. Their presence helps to keep insect populations in check, contributing to the health and sustainability of our environment.
While encounters with wildlife like bats can be fascinating, it’s important to remember that they are best appreciated from a respectful distance. Handling wild animals can pose risks to both the animal and the handler. Should you encounter a wild animal in distress, we urge you to reach out to Sulphur Creek Nature Center for guidance and support. You can visit our website at HaywardRec.org/nature or contact us directly at (510) 881-6747.
Sulphur Creek Nature Center remains committed to its mission of wildlife conservation and rehabilitation. We continue to accept native wildlife patients during our regular park hours, which are Tuesday through Friday from 12 noon to 4 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Calaveras Hills HS selected as 2024 Model Continuation High School
Submitted by Scott Forstner
Calaveras Hills High School (CHHS) was one of only two schools in Santa Clara County – and 31 schools throughout the state – recognized as a 2024 Model Continuation High School by the California Department of Education for providing comprehensive services to at-risk youth through the use of exemplary instructional strategies, flexible scheduling, and guidance and counseling services.
“Calaveras Hills HS is a school that helps students holistically to find their voice and a belief in themselves that they can be successful in school and in life,” said CHHS Principal Carl Stice. “This Model School award reflects CHHS’s commitment to continuous improvement.”
Principal Stice credited a new instructional model of Project Based Learning as a CHHS signature practice “that helped lead to this statewide recognition, and I could not be more proud of our staff, our students, and our families. Everyone has to be on board to ensure success for our students, and we have that.”
There are more than 430 continuation high schools serving close to 51,000 students throughout the state. Model Continuation High Schools excel and provide exceptional opportunities for their students to pursue academic and social success.
“The California Model Schools application process is intensive as the evaluation involves interviews of students, team members, district leaders, parents/caregivers, and community members. The evaluators review evidence of the effectiveness of the signature practice and the school program overall in conjunction with observations and their interviews,” Superintendent Cheryl Jordan said. “The CHHS Team of educators are dynamic and skilled in their work with our learners. This recognition is a testament to the caliber of Calaveras Hills High School.”
The Model Continuation High School Recognition Program is a collaborative partnership between the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California Continuation Education Association Plus (CCEA Plus). Schools operate their own exemplary programs, but Model Continuation High School-recognized educators commit to supporting and mentoring their peers in other local educational agencies.
Milpitas Unified School District
Candle Lighters welcome new members
Submitted by Mary Lang
Saturday, March 9 was the Candle Lighter New Members Luncheon. We are pleased to welcome the following new members to the organization: Debi Amodeo, Julie Collins, James Griego, Rhu Lucero, Suzy Marin, Lillian Pate
, Angelina Warfield, Tawney Warren and Patti Young. The luncheon was held at the Newark Community Center with Strizzi’s Restaurant doing the catering.
We are very fortunate to have this new energy coming into our organization. We are a family of incredible members and team work helps us grow and reach our goals together.
Candle Lighters is a non-profit organization of nearly 100 volunteers dedicated to raising funds for non-profit groups and community-based projects in the Tri-City Community (Fremont, Newark & Union City).
Debut novel celebrates the resilience of the human spirit: Mental health expert’s uplifting coming-of-age story
Submitted by Simone Jung
In her debut novel, All I Know (Buckberg Mountain Books, June 11, 2024), Holly C. LaBarbera deftly tells the story of a young woman who overcomes childhood trauma and tragedy to try and build a life with the boy she’s always loved.
LaBarbera, a psychotherapist and professor, uses her extensive knowledge and experience to explore the complexities of romantic relationships as well as those within families and among friends, showing that love comes in many forms, including choosing to love oneself.
About the book: Kai Martin sees her life as a series of concentric circles—her twin brother Kade occupying the center sphere with her, their parents surrounding them in the next, and the Tyler family in the outer loop–a connection Kai plans to make official by someday marrying Josh Tyler. The Martins and Tylers share memorable times together, but under the surface, they are two dysfunctional families struggling with alcoholism, depression, and abuse, all of which leads to a devastating event that knocks Kai off her axis and makes her doubt everything she thought she knew.
Josh is there through it all, and Kai eventually gets the romance she dreamed of, embarking on a life of travel and adventure with the boy she always loved. Yet reality is more complicated than any childhood fantasy, and when painful family patterns are reenacted between them, Kai must decide how much of herself she is willing to sacrifice for Josh. Ultimately, she must confront the heartbreaking truth that as much as we try to help the people we love, we can only truly save ourselves.
Perfect for fans of Ask Again, Yes and Everything I Never Told You, All I Know is a celebration of indomitable spirit and finding faith in oneself.
Holly LaBarbera began her creative writing career with a lightning bolt of inspiration for her first book, the as-yet-unpublished Five Days, followed by All I Know, and is currently revising her third novel. Participating in the Community of Writers Workshop in 2018 significantly contributed to her growth and development as a writer both during her time there and through ongoing connections with other amazing writers who have become critique and accountability partners, both in formal and informal writing groups. Holly is a psychotherapist and an adjunct professor at Santa Clara University’s School of Counseling Psychology, guiding graduate students in becoming licensed therapists.
Holly was born in Hawaii, grew up just north of New York City, and now lives outside of San Francisco. She considers herself equal parts New Yorker and California girl, a loyal fan of the Yankees and the Golden State Warriors. She loves reading and writing and is old-school in both, enjoying the feel of holding a book in her hands and turning actual pages and also doing her part to keep the post office in business by regularly sending handwritten letters and cards, much like her debut novel’s protagonist Kai.
Follow Holly LaBarbera on social media:
Twitter: @hollycoleen1
Instagram: @hollytellsatale
Facebook: Holly Coleen Labarbera
Edible Perennial Gardening
Submitted by Michael Singer
Working with Compost Gal Lori Caldwell, participants will discover that perennials are the perfect foundation for your edible or permaculture gardens. Learn the many benefits of perennials and how to add them to your landscape. Topics will include perennial types, when and how to plant, propagation and maintenance.
Castro Valley Library is a branch of the Alameda County Library system. The library is located at 3600 Norbridge Avenue and is wheelchair accessible. For more information, call the library at (510) 667-7900, or see events at https://aclibrary.org/location/castro-valley-events/.
Edible Perennial Gardening
Saturday, Mar 30
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
Family Movie Night: The Little Mermaid
Submitted by Yadira Ayala
Hayward Area Recreation & Park District invites you to Family Movie Night on April 5 at the Douglas Morrisson Theatre (DMT)!
Gather your loved ones for an evening of cinematic delight in the cozy theater for a family-friendly screening of The Little Mermaid (2023). Before the movie, we’ll have a few activities for you to enjoy, including a photobooth with Ariel, underwater-themed crafts, and sea-themed snacks — this is an event you won’t want to miss!
Visit www.bit.ly/HARDMovieTLM to register.
Family Movie Night: The Little Mermaid
Friday, Apr 5
5 pm – 8 pm
Douglas Morrisson Theatre
22311 N. 3rd St., Hayward
(510) 881-6700
Haywardrec.org/register (course #29093)
‘Fur Ball’ celebrates Judy Marcus’ contributions to animal welfare
Submitted by Michelle Tennant Nicholson
Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV) will celebrate Honorary Board Member Judy Marcus at HSSV’s biggest event of the year, “The Fur Ball” – where attendees are invited to bring their dogs for dinner and entertainment under the stars in support of the organization’s lifesaving work. The 2024 Fur Ball will be held on Saturday, May 11 at the PayPal Park in San Jose.
As a board member in the early 2000s, Judy played a crucial role in transforming HSSV into a regional leader in animal welfare. Judy and her husband George made great contributions to the construction of HSSV’s Peter Detkin and Michelle Oates Detkin Animal Community Center. The Marcuses recently donated $2 million to provide lifesaving medical care for animals, and increase access to veterinary care in our community.
“As one of our most passionate supporters, Judy has made indelible contributions to the welfare of animals and people in Silicon Valley,” says HSSV President Kurt Krukenberg. “As a board member from 2000 to 2006, she played an instrumental role in our building campaign and our evolution from Humane Society of Santa Clara Valley to Humane Society Silicon Valley.”
This is the first year HSSV has chosen to honor one of its benefactors at the Fur Ball—a move that recognizes Judy’s “tremendous love and passion for Humane Society Silicon Valley, for the mission here, her investment in that mission, but most importantly, for her role in establishing the Fur Ball,” says Dan Coleman, HSSV’s Chief of Development.
“We are so excited to have Judy as our first honoree,” he says. “Judy is very special to HSSV. This organization is fortunate to have supporters like her who really care. She is deeply passionate about helping animals, and helping people to keep their animals.”
Judy and George Marcus’s $2 million gift, made last year, supports two of HSSV’s strategic priorities: Saving Lives and Keeping Families Together. HSSV saves lives by receiving at-risk animals from under-resourced partner shelters, providing lifesaving medical and behavioral care to sick and injured animals, and adopting homeless animals into loving families. HSS provides pet food, supplies, and veterinary services to those facing hardship to ensure that pets remain healthy and safe with the people who love them.
Judy is a lauded Bay Area civic and business leader who grew up in San Francisco’s Potrero Hill neighborhood. Judy is a fourth-generation San Franciscan and former physical education teacher. She and her husband George have four adult children and three adopted dogs—Pepi, Coco, and Zoe—all adopted from HSSV. The many animals they have had over the years include dogs, roosters, a rabbit, a goat, and even a donkey. “Pets are the best,” Judy has said. “They are so happy and excited to see you when you come home. That brings a great joy into your life.”
A limited number of tables and tickets for The Fur Ball are available now. For more information call (408) 942-3003, email
Th********@hs**.org
, or visit HSSV.org. Tickets are $2,500 for individuals and $25,000 per table, tax deductible up to $2,220 and $22,000 respectively.
Humane Society Silicon Valley (HSSV) is an independent, privately funded, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has served people and pets for over 90 years.
Fur Ball
Saturday, May 11
5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
PayPal Park
1123 Coleman Ave., San Jose
(408) 942-3003
Tickets: $2,500 individual; $25,000 per table
(408) 942-3003
HSSV.org
Hayward Lit Hop
Submitted by Christina Deptula
Lit Hop is returning to downtown Hayward on April 27, 2024, which coincides with Independent Bookstore Day and National Poetry Month! The event was conceived and organized by a group of literary-minded volunteer community members and is free for all ages. A detailed schedule is available at https://haywardlithop.com/.
The event will begin at 2 p.m. at Heritage Plaza, a park across the street from the Downtown Hayward Public Library, with a welcome from Hayward local civic and literary leaders and a performance from East Bay Symphonic Band. Next, City of Hayward and Hayward Public Library will announce Hayward’s next poet laureate.
Then from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., we’ll hop from venue to venue up and down on and near B Street to hear performances including the Afrosurreal Writers Workshop of Oakland, students from Chabot College, a bilingual Spanish/English reading, the Bay Area Queer Writers, local Horror Writers’ and Mystery Writers’ Association chapters, Hayward Peer Writers, Women Who Submit Lit, East Bay Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers, California Writers’ Club, and students from CSUEB.
Venues include Books on B, Odd Fellows Lodge, Dirty Bird Lounge, Pizza House, Music Depot and The World Famous Turf Club. The event concludes with an afterparty at the Odd Fellows Lodge where we will have music, food and drinks.
This event aims to support local businesses, celebrate Hayward’s diverse cultural scene, and allow people to meet their neighbors and see each other’s talents. Also, to help people with an interest in writing or art find local groups to support and foster their talents.
Hayward Lit Hop
Saturday, Apr 27
2 p.m. – 8p.m.
B St., Hayward
Various Locations
Local students host health fair at library
Submitted by Jiya Shah
Photos by Tushara Kumar and Jaanya Anapureddy
On March 9, 2024, the Fremont Health Committee organized its second annual free health fair at the Fremont Main Library.
The committee comprises a group of high school students from Fremont who aim to provide free health services to the community by having various booths from different non-profits related to Health Sciences. This year there were booths about free blood pressure checkups, BMI calculations, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer presented by the Milpitas chapter of SPFCR (SPF Cancer Research); and breast cancer screening hosted by Bay Area Cancer Connections.
In a
ddition, there were other booths about how art helps with mental health, which included mandala art and doodling activities presented by Heal With Art. There was also a mental health awareness booth presented by Happy Mind Zone, and Jeopardy games related to health. The health fair was visited by more than 40 people, who left fantastic feedback.
Special thanks to all the health fair ambassadors: Arnava Bharadwaja, Jiya Shah, Tushara Kumar, Jaanya Anapureddy, Nadini Kumar, Emily Tan.
Contradicting Lines and Affirmation
Submitted by Lina Melkonian
Fremont Art Association (FAA) is delighted to have Jemal Diamond as the guest artist at its virtual General Meeting and Art Demo on Wednesday, April 3, at 1 p.m.
Diamond is a prolific artist who works from his studio at Visual Philosophy in San José and exhibits at KALEID Gallery and Works/San José. He holds an MFA in Visual Communication from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.Diamond balances his hectic creative endeavors with his current position as a design manager for a hardware technology company. In his demo, “Contradicting Lines and Affirmation,” Diamond will demonstrate his improvisational style of abstract painting with acrylic markers on paper.
Diamond’s abstractions are intriguing, bold, and playful. His drawing style comes from the ancient practice of doodling. He is drawn to the meditative power of a pen between his fingers flowing across a pulpy paper. As he puts it, “It’s the marks we make in the margins while our focused minds are elsewhere, I find most interesting.” This graphic form of expression fuels Diamond’s imagination and while it may seem that his process and resulting creations are purely improvisational, there’s also intentionality embedded with visual cues and endless possibilities for interpretation. Ultimately, Diamond’s abstractions compel us to search for meaning—the sweet spot of all engagement.
Diamond exhibits his work widely and is a participant in a myriad of solo and group shows. Just a few include:
“Gods Like Us,” KALED Gallery, San José, CA, 2023
“Fairies, Lovers, Others,” Visual Philosophy, San José, CA, 2022
“Homecoming” Works/San Jose, San José, CA, 2023
“Who Are You?” genARTS Open, San José, CA, 2023
“Salon at the Triton 2023” Triton Museum of Art, Santa Clara, CA
You may view Diamond’s work at:
https://thejemalshow.com/
https://www.instagram.com/thejemalshow/
The demo (free to attend) will be held via Zoom. Participants must register in advance and will receive the Zoom link via email. Details may be found at: www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo.
General Meeting and Art Demo
Wednesday, Apr 3
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Register at: www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo
Once-in-a-lifetime photo captures our local firefighting heroes
By Marc Vicente
Many heroes exist in our community who do incredible things each and every day, but they do not ask for spotlight or any attention for their work. We see their work as lifesaving or inspiring, but to them they simply view it as their job.
Newark resident Eve Marie Little got the opportunity to capture a glimpse of the bravery of firefighters on her commute back home from work along the 880 Highway. She immediately parked her car on the side of the freeway to offer her aid to a motorcycle driver involved in an accident close to Warm Springs. Two other people stopped as well and quickly helped assess the situation until the professionals arrived at the scene.
“I was really worried about the motorcyclist,” said Little in retrospect. “You could tell he was in a lot of pain and shock, but he did his best to stay as calm as possible.”
As firefighters and EMS came to the scene, Little took four photos with her phone of the site just in case they were needed for insurance purposes. Upon getting a closer look at the one remarkable photo that was taken, she decided to investigate who were these silent heroes in the community. After a couple of months and speaking to several individuals within the county, she discovered that they were Fremont firefighters Tony Navarro and Brad Simkin. She developed a print of the photo onto a large canvas and went over to their station to give them her gift.
“It took me a minute to remember this certain incident because we do so many similar events every day,” stated Simkin, “What really jogged my memory was the female civilian who grabbed a neon vest and STOP sign she had in the back of her car, since she was a crossing guard at a nearby school.” Simkin chuckled when he remembered that he had thanked the woman for her help and he heard her shout out that she had been waiting her whole life to do this.
Navarro stated that this picture would have a very special place in his heart. “Right at the beginning of my public service career when I was about 19 years old, I helped with a traffic accident involving a young baby,” Navarro remembered. “Someone had snapped a picture of me holding the little one right as we were safely taking them out of the car, and it was published in the newspaper. I have always kept a copy of the clipping. And now I am planning on retiring in a couple of months, it is really special to have gotten another action picture towards the end of my firefighter profession.”
Both firefighters promised that they would share this photograph with the other three men who were in this picture; Tyler Mallinger, Joe Byrom, and Chad Radelich. They then proceeded to take the canvas photo and hang it in their dining room area as the perfect centerpiece for a photo collage.
According to their website, the Fremont Fire Department was started in 1958 and currently has 13 in-service fire companies along with 11 fire stations strategically positioned throughout the area. Their mission had always been to deliver the services necessary to minimize the cost of life and property threatened by the hazards of fire, medical, and rescue emergencies, hazardous material incidents, and disastrous situations in their community. Thanks to this mindset, the Fremont Fire Department assisted over 18,300 incidents in 2023 alone, averaging 50 a day.
Upon l
eaving, Navarro once again thanked Little for the priceless piece of work and for making the extensive effort to find out who were the individuals in the picture. But most of all, he stated that he was just thankful that three civilians stopped and helped at the scene of the accident. “The world would be a better place if there were more people like this.”
Twice-Annual Curbside Residential Bulky Item Clean-up Collection
Submitted by Republic Services
Do you have an unwanted couch, mattress, washing machine or other large household appliance you need collected? Union City residents are eligible to receive two annual bulky item collections curbside at no additional cost to conveniently and responsibly manage items that are too large or bulky.
Your collection date will be scheduled no more than 21 days after you request this service, and you will receive a postcard confirming the appointment date. Remember to wait until the evening before your scheduled collection day to set out items at the curb. If items are set out too soon, this may encourage others to add to your bulky item pile, and your pile may not be collected if it does not meet the program requirements. If items are not set out when the truck arrives on your collection day (as early as 6 a.m.), you will need to call in again to reschedule for another day, and you will need to move materials out of public view until the newly-scheduled collection date.
Republic Services will haul away up to four cubic yards of materials per collection, with set-out dimensions measured at 9-feet wide, 3-feet deep, and 4-feet tall. Set aside reusable and recyclable items to ensure these are collected for reuse and recycling and not sent to the landfill. Accepted materials include large appliances, electronic waste, yard trimmings, furniture and carpets, tires, and other materials such as flattened cardboard. Prohibited items include rocks, dirt or concrete, hazardous and medical waste, painted wood, construction and demolition debris, and items over 150 pounds.
Before discarding items or arranging for collection, consider reuse options such as selling or donating items at a garage sale, through local online community groups such as Freecycle, Craigslist, or Facebook Buy Nothing, or to local non-profit groups and thrift stores. Visit StopWaste.org/RESource for additional reuse and recycling options. It is important to note that if someone offers to haul your materials for a low price, it may be illegally dumped. If your items are found illegally dumped, you can be held liable for removal costs, penalties, and fees, even if you did not dump it yourself.
Call Republic Services at (510) 657-3500 to schedule your bulky item collection and for more program information.
EarthTalk
From the Editors of E – The Environmental Magazine
Dear EarthTalk: How do different regions of the U.S. compare with regard to vulnerability to impending climate threats?
Climate change causes rising temperatures, fluctuating rain patterns and other extreme weather phenomena. However, the effects of climate change are not equally distributed across the country.
Regional climate change experiences can be broadly divided into two categories: (1) geographical and climatic factors (i.e., the actual climate change); (2) and socio-economic factors (i.e., the vulnerability of the population to these changes). It is crucial to understand how different regions experience climate change in order to develop effective climate policies. Some regions, for example, rely on climate-sensitive industries such as agriculture, tourism and natural resource extraction, while others do not. Those that do tend to be home to vulnerable populations like people with low income, and marginalized communities.
The Fifth National Climate Assessment (NCA5) recognized certain region-specific patterns. The U.S. Northeast is experiencing significant increases in extreme precipitation, with some areas seeing up to a 60 percent rise from the historical average. Also, warming water temperatures are impacting local wildlife. In the Southeast, lengthy coasts make the region particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and increasing sea levels. This vulnerability is exacerbated by the region’s reliance on coastal ecosystems and tourism.
Climate change negatively affects the Great Plains’ huge energy sector. Agriculture is disrupted through the depletion of a critical water source: the High Plain Aquifer. The region is also vulnerable to habitat loss, changes in food availability, and other unique problems. The Midwest, with its intense agricultural production, suffers extreme weather events and changes in precipitation patterns that dramatically impact crop yields. A severe drought in 2012 caused billions of dollars in losses to Midwest farmers.
The Northwest’s vulnerable water resources are greatly impacted by higher temperatures. Snowpack, a critical water source, is declining. Also, the region’s extensive forests face a higher risk of wildfires and insect infestations. The Southwest, characterized by a hot and dry climate, is also vulnerable to prolonged droughts, severe wildfires and water scarcity, further straining its already limited water resources.
Alaska and its large population of indigenous people is affected by melting permafrost, coastal erosion and loss of wildlife. Hawaii and the U.S. Caribbean’s coastal communities suffer sea level rise, coral reef degradation and extreme weather events. And the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration reports that degradation of coral reefs due to rises in sea surface temperatures could incur coastal damages costing approximately $1.2 billion (in 2022 dollars) annually to Hawaiʻi and the U.S. Pacific territories.
While impacts of climate change vary, it is important to remember no region is immune. We will need to continue to collect and analyze data to fully understand this issue. Furthermore, we need to empower vulnerable communities and prioritize their needs. Finally, we need to make collaborative efforts at the local, state and national levels to truly combat this issue.
The U.S. Climate Vulnerability Index, https://map.climatevulnerabilityindex.org/
The Fifth National Climate Assessment, https://nca2023.globalchange.gov/
EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more athttps://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to:
qu******@ea*******.org
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Social Security Matters
By Russell Gloor, National Social Security Advisor, AMAC Foundation
Ask Rusty – Veteran uncertain about Social Security and healthcare coverage
Dear Rusty: I’m not sure what I should sign up for in terms of Social Security. I am 64 and I am still employed full time and intend to stay employed until age 70. I am retired from the Navy and receive military retirement payments, and have military TriCare, as well as medical, dental, eye and life insurance through my employer. I don’t want to lose benefits, but I also don’t want to take Social Security until it reaches the maximum at age 70 (I think that is correct?). I will turn 65 in 4 months. Can you advise me? Signed: Uncertain Veteran
Dear Uncertain Veteran: First of all, thank you for your service to our country. From what you’ve shared, and since you’re still working full time, not claiming Social Security yet is a smart decision. If you were born in 1959 your full retirement age (FRA) is 66 years and 10 months and, if you claim SS before your full retirement age, you’ll be subject to Social Security’s earning test which would likely make you ineligible to receive SS benefits at this time.
The 2024 earnings limit (limit changes yearly) when collecting Social Security early is $22,320 and, if that is exceeded, Social Security will take away $1 in benefits for every $2 over the limit (half of what you exceed the limit by). If you significantly exceed the limit, SS will declare you temporarily ineligible to collect SS benefits until you either reach your FRA or earn less. The earnings test no longer applies after you reach your FRA. So, if you’re now employed full time and plan to stay so until age 70, and you expect at least average longevity (about 84 for someone your current age), delaying until age 70 to claim Social Security is how to get your maximum Social Security benefit.
As for your healthcare coverage as a veteran: TriCare requires you to enroll in Medicare Part A (inpatient hospitalization coverage) and Part B (coverage for outpatient services) at age 65, but you do not need to take Social Security when you enroll in Medicare. You must, however, enroll in Medicare at age 65 or you will lose your TriCare (military) healthcare coverage. You could choose to delay enrolling in Medicare at 65 because you have “creditable” employer coverage, but if you do so you will lose your current TriCare coverage and need to rely solely on your employer healthcare plan. In that case, you would still be able to enroll in both Medicare and TriCare-for-Life without penalty prior to your employer coverage ending and have coverage under both programs thereafter. I suggest you contact TriCare directly at 1 (866) 773-0404 to discuss your personal TriCare coverage after age 65. You can also go to www.TriCare4U.com.
Whenever you enroll, Medicare will be the primary payer of your healthcare costs and TriCare will be the secondary payor. Your vision, dental, and prescription drug coverage would be through TriCare (Medicare does not cover those services) or acquired separately. Just remember, you must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B to have TriCare-for-Life coverage after age 65.
This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or financial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit our website (amacfoundation.org/programs/social-security-advisory) or email us at
ss*******@am************.org
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Social Security Matters
By Russell Gloor, National Social Security Advisor, AMAC Foundation
Ask Rusty – How Do Survivor Benefits Work for a Married Couple?
Dear Rusty: How does Social Security handle the death of one spouse? Say, for example, the husband receives $2,000 per month in Social Security and his wife receives $1,000 per month. How is the death of either spouse handled? Signed: Concerned spouse
Dear Concerned: Benefits to a deceased beneficiary stop as soon as Social Security (SS) is notified of the death (notification usually done by the funeral director who handles arrangements). Benefits are not paid for the month of death, only for the preceding month when the beneficiary was alive for the entire month.
A surviving spouse is entitled to the higher of two benefits – their own personally earned SS retirement benefit, or an amount based on the deceased spouse’s benefit at death. In the example you cite, and assuming the surviving spouse has reached full retirement age (FRA): if the husband dies first the wife will receive the husband’s $2,000 monthly benefit instead of her previous $1,000 amount. But if the wife died first, the husband would continue receiving only his $2,000 monthly amount because that is more than his deceased wife was receiving. Note in either case, the surviving spouse would be entitled to a one-time lump sum “death benefit” of $255.
The surviving spouse would need to contact Social Security to claim the “death benefit” and – unless the surviving spouse was previously receiving only a spousal benefit – also to claim the higher monthly amount, if eligible. If the surviving spouse was previously receiving only a spousal benefit from the deceased (and not entitled to SS retirement benefits on their own), then Social Security would automatically award their higher survivor amount when notified of the death.
If a surviving spouse has reached full retirement age (somewhere between 66 and 67 depending on year of birth) and is eligible for a survivor benefit, the amount of the survivor benefit will be 100% of the deceased spouse’s benefit. But if the survivor claims the benefit before reaching FRA, the amount of the survivor benefit will be reduced (by 4.75% for each full year earlier). The survivor’s benefit reaches maximum at the survivor’s full retirement age.
If a surviving spouse has not yet reached their FRA, and if they are entitled to (not necessarily collecting) their own Social Security retirement benefit, the surviving spouse has the option to delay claiming the survivor benefit until it reaches maximum at their full retirement age. And if the survivor’s personal SS retirement benefit will ever be more than their maximum survivor benefit, the surviving spouse also has the option to claim only the smaller survivor benefit first and allow their personal SS retirement benefit to grow (to maximum at age 70 if desired).
With Social Security there is hardly ever a simple answer to a question but, in the example you use, if both are over their SS full retirement age:
- If the husband dies first, the wife will get 100% of the amount ($2,000) the husband was receiving, instead of the small amount ($1,000) she was previously receiving.
- If the wife dies first, the husband’s monthly benefit will remain at $2,000, and he will get no increase in his monthly amount.
- In either case, the surviving spouse will be entitled to a one-time lump sum death benefit of $255.
This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or financial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit our website (amacfoundation.org/programs/social-security-advisory) or email us at
ss*******@am************.org
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Tri-City History A-Z in Photographs #3: Casks
Submitted by Kelsey Camello, for the Washington Township Museum of Local History
Cask (noun): A container made and shaped like a barrel, especially one larger and stronger, for holding liquids.
Irvington Packing Company, 1950s, Irvington.
In 1946, James “Ralph” Baxter and Jim Campbell started the Irvington Packing Co. Cooper Fernando Lopez produced redwood vats 12-15’ across that could hold 10-20 tons of sweet pickles. The Irvington Packing Company had a dozen employees, and depending on what was ripe, could pickle cucumber, cauliflower and peppers. The partners sold to California Conserve Co. in 1960 and the business changed to packing relish.
Interior view of the cellar of the Stanford Winery, 1880-1890s, Warm Springs.
The winery, owned and operated by Josiah W. Stanford (brother of Leland Stanford) spanned 275 acres, produced 1,000 tons of grapes and had 320,000 gallons of wine in cooperage. It was later purchased by the Weibel Family in 1945.
Lunch counter outside the Richfield gasoline station, with root beer concentrate in the large cask, 1930s, Niles.
The Richfield gas station was located opposite the Niles Theatre. Pictured are the owners, Mr. and Mrs. Marble, their dog, and an unidentified person.
Winery building at Linda Vista Winery, 1880s, Mission San Jose.
At its peak, Linda Vista vines spanned between 425 and 1,000 acres and the winery could hold 500,000 gallons in cooperage. The wine was served exclusively by the Pullman Palace Car Company.
Let’s explore local history through themes and photographs. Have a topic or idea you’d like us to explore? Email us at
in**@mu******************.org
.
Budding Brassicas
By Madhvika Singh
Photos by Madhvika Singh
From the family Brassicaceae or Cruciferae, vegetables like broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower belong to the species Brassica oleracea. The edible part of the plant is the unopened bud. In broccoli and cauliflower, the buds form a floret, and florets make up the head.
Cabbage, on the other hand, is a single vegetative bud. The plant’s tender leaves are edible, and so is the non-fibrous stalk. They are a cool-weather crop suited for fall and spring. They can be easily planted in ground or in a raised bed, but can also be grown in a container with good drainage, nutrient-rich soil and consistent watering. Depending upon the gardener’s preference, they can be sowed directly, started indoors or purchased as starts from a local nursery.
If starting from seed, start seeds four to six weeks before planting time. I find starting the plants indoors in seedling trays or small pots better than direct sowing, as for me seeds planted outside just get lost. When shopping for transplants, avoid ones with woody stems, discolored or yellowing leaves, and root bound plants. Look for healthy plants, even if they are smaller than their unhealthy but taller neighbors.
Some things that improve chances of success with growing brassicas are acquainting yourself with the garden layout and assessing how much sunlight vegetables will get given the orientation of the space and any nearby structures or larger plants. Brassicas need strong sunlight for at least six to eight hours daily. Once brassicas are planted, cover the soil around the plants with mulch to prevent weeds and hold moisture. When growing in containers, I like to use 15-gallon pots especially for broccoli and cauliflower, but cabbage can be planted in a five gallon. Plant it in the center of the container so it won’t topple over once the heavy “head” starts to form. This crop also appreciates two to three applications of a fertilizer during the growing season.
When planting brassicas, one to two feet between plants and two to three feet between rows is recommended. Once plants have established themselves in the ground, trim away the bottommost old and yellowing leaves to allow good air flow and deter slugs from finding shelter. Just like any crop, brassicas are also prone to pests and disease. Some common pests are cabbage loopers, snails, and slugs. They tend to chew the leaves and leave holes. Another kind of damage to brassicas is deformed curled leaves caused by aphids. Some diseases are bacterial blig
ht, downy mildew, and white rust.
Each disease presents its own symptoms and requires its own approach. As a home gardener, I begin by visually inspecting and hand picking any crop-harming insects and washing off the aphids with a hose. I also like to grow brassicas under row covers to deter common pests like cabbage loopers. To prevent disease and pest buildup, rotate the crop and choose resistant varieties whenever possible. Should you need to use a pesticide, follow the instructions on the label.
To stay ahead of the game to harvest the best heads, look for ones that still feel firm and tight. For broccoli, if one waits too long it will start to flower. Also, after cutting the main head, the side shoots of broccoli plants will continue to make smaller heads that can be harvested, but won’t grow as big as the main head. Cauliflower follows the same principle but rarely grows side shoots. If the florets have started to separate, we have waited a bit too long. I also maintain a gardening journal to track the progress of things growing in my yard.
Brassicas are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. For example, broccoli can be made into soups, sautéed, or steamed. Broccoli becomes mushy if steamed for too long and can dry out when overcooked.
Here is one way to enjoy steamed broccoli with only a few ingredients from the pantry like garlic, oil or butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Cut the head into florets and steam for about two minutes. Transfer in a colander and run for few seconds under cold water. In a heavy bottom pan add a tablespoon of oil or butter and sauté few cloves of minced garlic. As soon as the garlic becomes fragrant, add the steamed broccoli and turn over few times to coat it evenly. Transfer in a serving dish and add salt, pepper and lemon juice as desired.
Another variation is to drizzle a balsamic glaze over the steamed broccoli and cover it for few minutes to allow flavors to incorporate, and season as desired. One can easily skip fat in the recipe and sprinkle with a garlic seasoning. A personal favorite is adding a dash of red chili and garlic sauce and sprinkling sesame seeds! Broccoli can also be added to stir fry, omelets, pasta dishes, salads, soups or casseroles. Broccolini or broccoli rabe can be used in place of broccoli. Adding any unused parts of the plant to the compost pile is a great way to add nutrients back to the soil.
Cauliflower can also be enjoyed in many forms, from raw to riced to roasted. One can make cauliflower crust pizza topped with choice cheese and toppings. It blends really well in soups or mash it to replace potatoes, or it can be grilled and drizzled with a dressing.
As a proud and enthusiastic home gardener, I try not to get bound by fixed quantities for a dish, but instead am grateful for whatever my garden produces, cook it with joy, and enjoy it with my heart!
Alameda County District Attorney’s Office Joins in $17.75 Million Settlement Agreement with Mariner Health Care
Submitted by Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price
The settlement includes all of Mariner Health Care Inc.’s California skilled nursing facilities, including five facilities within Alameda County.
Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price joined the California Attorney General’s Office and the District Attorneys from Los Angeles, Marin, and Santa Cruz Counties in announcing a $17.75 million top-value settlement against Mariner Health Care Inc. and its related operating and holding companies (Mariner) which operate 19 skilled nursing facilities throughout the state, including five facilities in Alameda County.
“This case involved very vulnerable patients needing specialized health care,” said Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price. “The hard-working prosecutors in our Consumer Justice Bureau helped the statewide team ensure that the Mariner facilities in Alameda County were held accountable for any mistreatment or neglect their patients may have experienced and to ensure that Mariner follows the law moving forward.”
The settlement filed in Alameda County, is linked to the Bankruptcy Reorganization Plan of two of the Mariner entities that are in Chapter 11; will provide injunctive relief for a minimum of five years; oversight by an independent monitor for a minimum of three years; payment of $2.25 million in costs; and penalties of up to $15.5 million dollars for any violations of the injunction or law.
The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office’s investigation into Mariner dates back to 2019 when it joined the California Department of Justice’s Division of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse and the three other county district attorney offices in investigating allegations of neglect and abuse of residents in Mariner’s skilled nursing facilities (i.e., infected bedsores, falls, disease, pests or assault), including at Parkview Healthcare Center in the City of Alameda.
When informal efforts failed to secure Mariner’s full compliance with the law, a formal complaint was filed against Mariner and its affiliated operating companies on April 8, 2021. The 2021 civil complaint alleged Mariner violated California’s Unfair Competition Law; False Advertising Law; provisions of the California Health & Safety Code; and state/federal regulations by understaffing its facilities and subjecting its patients to negligent care while inflating their skilled nursing facilities advertised ratings to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
The stipulated judgment entered into by Mariner (which neither admits nor denies any wrongdoing) makes the above injunctive terms permanent, with sunsetting provisions for the court-appointed monitor that the Court can lengthen if continued violations occur. It also places the $15,500,000 “hammer” in civil penalties above Mariner should it seek to escape or continue to violate its obligations.
Fremont City Council
March 5, 2024
Consent Agenda
- Second reading and adoption of an ordinance of the City of Fremont amending Fremont Municipal code section 10.05.1000 “declared Prima Facie Speed Limits.”
- Authorize the designee to execute agreement with Nanogen Science and Services, LLC, a California Limited Liability Company dba Mad Science of the Bay Area.
- Approval of additional affordable housing funding for the Doug Ford Community Apartments Project and Making Findings of CEQA exemption information.
- Authorize the designee, to issue a purchase order with StarChase, LLC in an amount not to exceed $250,000.
Mayor Lily Mei Aye
Yang
Sha Aye
Teresa Cox Aye
Raj Salwan Aye
Desrie Campbell Aye
Jenny Kassan Aye
Teresa Keng Aye
Input Sought on Hayward Half-Cent Sales Tax
Submitted by City of Hayward
The City of Hayward is seeking input on future use and potential renewal of its half-cent sales tax that funds core municipal services, roadway improvements, and modernization of community-serving facilities and emergency-response systems and infrastructure.
Since voters passed Measure C in June 2014 to establish the Hayward half-cent sales tax, the City has used the revenue to build the new downtown Hayward Public Library and Heritage Plaza, upgrade and seismically retrofit five fire stations, and construct a new regional Fire and Rescue Training Center and Fire Station #6.
The funds also have been used to carry out the largest annual road improvement project in city history, reduce graffiti and illegal dumping citywide, and add 14 positions at the Hayward Police Department.
Now, the city wants your input on future uses of the half-cent sales tax—now that projects prioritized in 2014 have been completed — and on a potential no-increase extension beyond 2034 to meet remaining and emerging City facility and infrastructure needs.
To learn more about Hayward’s half-cent sales tax, visit https://www.hayward-ca.gov/haywardlistens.
To provide input on future uses of the half-cent sales tax revenue and on a potential no-increase extension of the tax beyond 2034, complete the survey here: https://www.research.net/r/Hayward-Listens
Ohlone College Board Meeting
March 13, 2024
Consent Agenda
- Recognize March as Women’s History Month
- Proclaim March 31st, 2024 as Cesar Chavez Day
- Approve February 2024 payroll warrants with a total net of $3,211,384
- Approve personnel actions
- Approve excused absence resolution for Student Trustee Omar Ansari
- Accept reports from the 2024 Community College League of California (CCLC) Legislative Conference
- Accept CCCT Board Report
- Approve resolution for non-resident tuition fee for the 2024-2025 school year
- Approve purchase orders
- Approve change order #3 for Measure G Project Building 19 Renovation/Cafe
- Ratify Fremont and Newark Unified School Districts agreement with Upward Bound Math and Science college preparatory program
- Ratify list of contracts including consulting and cybersecurity program planning and implementation
Chair Suzanne Lee Chan Aye
Elisa Martinez Aye
Greg Bonaccorsi Aye
Betty Ho Aye
Lance Kwan Aye
Rakesh Sharma Aye
Richard Watters Aye
Alameda County District Attorney Recall Signature Update
Submitted by Alameda County Registrar of Voters
On March 4, 2024, the Registrar of Voters (ROV) received 123,374 signatures supporting the petition to recall the County of Alameda District Attorney. Using the random sampling method authorized by state law, the ROV conducted a signature count. The results of the random sampling are not sufficient to determine whether the signature threshold to call for a recall election has been met. A total of 73,195 signatures are needed. As required by state law, the ROV will now begin a manual count of the verified signatures submitted.
State law requires the ROV to rely upon a manual count of the verified signatures in this situation because the random sampling technique did not produce a statistically confident determination of the sufficiency of the petition. A manual count of the verified signatures will ensure that everyone can be confident about the ROV’s determination of the sufficiency of the recall petition, and it is in the best interests of the proponents of the recall, the target of the recall and the public, generally, that the signatures are counted reliably.
Statement from Fremont City Council on the Conflict in Gaza and Israel
Submitted by Geneva Bosques
As leaders of the diverse and compassionate community of Fremont, we are deeply saddened and concerned about the escalating conflict in Gaza and Israel. Our hearts go out to all those affected by the violence, including innocent civilians who are caught in the crossfire.
The Fremont City Council is united in our call for sustained peace in the Palestine and Israel regions. While the city remains focused on local policy matters, we can no longer stand silent while tragic events continue to claim the lives of innocent people in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank.
We have a humanitarian obligation as people, to speak out against actions that endanger those who are innocent, and above all, we must call for the safety of children by ensuring adequate supplies of food and water. Over the last several weeks many of our community members have shared personal stories of trauma, suffering, and death endured by loved ones due to this war. We mourn with them and we plea to end the violence that continues to endanger innocent lives. Fremont stands for peace, justice, and human rights for all, regardless of their nationality or background. We strongly condemn any actions that result in harm to civilians or undermine the prospects for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Locally, we are observing a disturbing increase in Islamophobia, antisemitism, anti-Arab, and anti-Jewish hate, which leaves many feeling isolated. As one of the safest citi
es in America, this City Council wants to ensure that Fremont is safe and welcoming, where diversity is celebrated, and peace is at our core. We care deeply for our entire community and our highest priority is that Fremont remains a Compassionate City for ALL. This is an incredibly difficult time in our history, and we must stand together hand in hand, committed, and united against hate.
We urge all parties involved to engage in meaningful dialogue to halt the hostilities and address the root causes of the conflict. Only through dialogue and diplomacy can a lasting and just solution be achieved. We call on our community to come together in solidarity and empathy to support initiatives that promote peace in the Palestine region, fosters reconciliation, and work toward mutual understanding.
Together, we can unite to build a better future for all.
2024 Cougars Girls Summer Basketball Camp Underway
Submitted by Darryl Reina
The annual Cougars Summer Basketball Camp, for girls in the 3rd-8th grade, will be held, July 8-12, at the Silliman Activity Center Gymnasium in Newark.
The camp is designed for girls at all ability levels and experience, and will focus on shooting, ball-handling, passing, footwork / agility, individual defense, spacing, teamwork, decision making, and having FUN! Daily prizes and camp awards!
The camp will be directed by Coach Darryl Reina, Newark Memorial Girls Varsity Head Coach, Staff, and players.
The fee is $125 for Newark residents, and $135 for non-residents. To register now go to newarkca.activityreg.com.
For more information contact Coach Reina at
da*******@ao*.com
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Cougars Girls Summer Basketball Camp
Monday – Friday, July 8 – 12
9 a.m. – 12 noon
Silliman Activity Center Gymnasium
6800 Mowry Avenue, Newark
Register at newarkca.activityreg.com
Residents: $125; Non-residents: $135
Fremont Football and Cheer Camps
Submitted by Fremont Football League
Join in on Fremont Football and Cheer Spring Camps. Registration is open for our exciting upcoming season celebrating 60 years supporting our youth. Register now to have the most up to date information regarding our soon to start season. If you are joining us at our Spring Camps, please email us at
Fr*****************@gm***.com
and we will send you a pre-registration form.
Please arrive at Irvington Park promptly at 12 noon. Please bring water and be ready for some fun! Snack bar will be available.
We look forward to seeing you on the field!
Fremont Football and Cheer Camps
Saturdays, Apr 6 – May 18
Football: 12 noon – 4 p.m.
Cheer: 12 noon – 3 p.m.
Irvington Park
41885 Blacow Rd., Fremont
New Haven Fun Run/Walk
Submitted by New Haven School Foundation
New Haven Schools Foundation (NHSF) Fun Run on Saturday, April 27 is raising funds for education enhancement and scholarships for New Haven Unified School District (Union City/South Hayward) public school students.
5K / Race, chip-timed, designed for serious runners, walkers, fitness-minded people, outdoor enthusiasts, and just for FUN! In addition to serious runners, the 5K is historically popular with walkers, and those with baby strollers. No dogs this year, due to proximity to New Haven Day. Serious runners are positioned near the starting line, ahead of more casual participants.
Register now! Early bird registration ends April 13th. T-shirt and swag bag guaranteed with early bird 5K registration, and t-shirt included with early bird Kid Race registration. Giveaways are not guaranteed after April 13th. Scan QR code for registration or visit runsignup.com/earthdayfunrun.
New Haven 5K Fun Run
Saturday, Apr 27
Check-in: 7 a.m.
Race: 8 a.m.
James Logan High School Track
1800 H. St., Union City
Register at: runsignup.com/earthdayfunrun
Fremont running club holds third Annual Half Marathon
By April Ramos
In the early morning of Saturday, March 23, a crowd of excited runners at Dumbarton Quarry Campground were being led in a warm-up while music played in the background. After stretches, jumping jacks, and other exercises were done, the over 200 participants cheered as they were directed to the starting line of the FierceliFit Half Marathon, 10K, 5K race.
When FierceliFit Founder, Sonali Desai, was asked how the event was going she laughed and said, “Much better now! We had people out here at 4 a.m. changing courses because of mudslides, but everything is good now.” Those people are volunteers that have been with Desai from the start of FierceliFit when it was solely a running club.
Desai’s running journey unfortunately came from a somber time in her life. In 2010 when Desai lost two of her friends to depression she started running as a way to cope with her loss. After running for some time she shares, “I thought ‘You know, this is a good way to just get out and feel better.’” In 2015 friends of Desai joined her and began training for marathons at no cost to members, and that was the beginning of FierceliFit.
After many years the club had the thought, “Why are we running for other people, why don’t we just start our own race,” Desai explained. With the help of their sponsor Intelliswift Software Inc., FierceliFit held its first race in 2022. Desai shares her gratitude for Intelliswift saying, “Because our training program is free, we don’t have the funds for permits and insurance before we get an
y money from the registrations, so we couldn’t do it without Intelliswift.”
All three races were sent off at the sound of a fog horn. When a straggler got to the starting line 15 minutes late for his race’s send-off, he nervously asked if he was too late to participate. Desai reassured him with enthusiasm, “Go run! I’ll wait for you here!” Volunteers quickly worked to turn registration tables into food and medal stations preparing for the runners’ return.
As they began to emerge from over the hill, young helpers rang a cowbell and handed them a medal as they crossed the finish line. Athletes of all ages crossed the finish. One runner posed with her children as they all donned their new medals, while another reunited with her elated fur baby at the finish.
As more and more athletes finished their race, they gathered with plates of food recounting their challenging run and giving kudos to those who were running alongside them. It is apparent that Desai’s original purpose for creating FierceliFit as a way to ‘feel better’ has been accomplished as runners depart beaming with happiness as they yell, “See you next year!”
For more information on FierceliFit’s training program and annual race, visit their website at www.FierceliFit.com.
Vive le livre!
By Stephanie Gertsch
On Friday, March 22, a 3rd and 4th Grade combination class at Oliveira Elementary in Fremont unveiled the school’s latest student-led project: a Little Free Library, dubbed “Le Little Library” by students Bella Z. and Emily L. in their winning design. After reading the book The Little Library by Margaret McNamara and G. Brian Karas, the students of teacher Amy Twisselman oversaw the project from start to finish. They put out a survey to gauge reading interests in the neighborhood, created designs for the structure, and painted it in the school’s makerspace. Students Matthew L., Varun M., and Nikilan P. even did some of the woodworking, assisted by community member George Bain (grandpa to four Oliveira students). The kids even created a YouTube video to promote the library’s grand opening.
Parents donated materials, and teachers helped, but kids were at the wheel. According to Principal Linda Anderson, this shows “how project-based learning can really get kids excited about things. They had to learn about measurements, they read the book–they did so much…Now they understand how much it takes to do a project. They couldn’t understand why it was taking so long…”
She champions student voices and letting students take the lead. “That’s why it’s fun to do these projects. If we give kids the opportunity, they really have a lot of thoughts and things they want to do.”
Anderson herself got into the field of education as a parent-turned-teacher at Oliveira Elementary. In her career, she’s been a teacher, substitute, PTA president, and director of curriculum and instruction at the District Office. Now she’s finishing her career at the school where it all started.
“We don’t give up on these kids,” she says. “We know we’ll find the avenue we have to help them travel on in order to be successful. And not only in academics, in character. I’m a big advocate of that.” At Oliveira, there are lots of chances for kids to get their hands dirty: a mural club, eco club, student garden–and baby chicks to raise.
Creating opportunities for students to take initiative is important now more than ever, after many children were distance learning for formative years in their education. “They weren’t given that opportunity, because they were [out of school for] Covid when they were little,” explains Anderson. “They never really learned how to solve problems. They’re learning again now.”
“Our third graders were Kindergarteners, and they missed out on a lot. Our fifth graders were second graders, and that’s a BIG time of character building and trying to work out problems. So for fifth graders to try to learn all that again–or try to learn it, period–it’s hard. But I can see a big change this year.”
So can the community. Merci, kids!
To donate books to Oliveira’s little free library, contact Linda Anderson at
li***********@fu*****.net
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Newark Police Log
Submitted by Newark Police Department
Monday, March 11
- 1:10 p.m.: Officer S. Torres responded to the 36400 block of Spruce Street regarding a court order. A 52-year-old unsheltered male was arrested for trespassing and transported for booking into Santa Rita Jail.
- 7:06 p.m.: Officer McCuin was on patrol in the 38600 block of Cedar Boulevard. A 58-year-old male from Stockton was contacted with an arrest warrant, possession of narcotics and transported to Santa Rita Jail for booking.
Thursday, March 14
- 6:55 a.m.: Officer Lara responded to 34900 block of Newark Boulevard on a request for a welfare check. A 48-year-old unsheltered male from Hayward was arrested for an active warrant and released on scene with a citation.
Friday, March 15
- 3:27 a.m.: Officer Stevenson conducted a pedestrian stop on the 2000 block of Newpark Mall Road. A 42-year-old unsheltered male was discovered in possession of narcotics and subsequently arrested. He was released on scene with a citation.
- 4:55 p.m.: Officers conducted a welfare check near Sycamore Street and Rich Avenue. A 37-year-old unsheltered female from Newark was arrested for resisting detention. She was transported and booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Saturday, March 16
- 9:56 a.m.: Officers were dispatched to Cherry Street and Thornton Avenue regarding a disturbance. A 43-year-old unsheltered female was arrested for mail theft and resisting arrest. She was transported to Santa Rita Jail.
- 9:03 p.m.: Officer Stevenson responded to the 36500 block of Cherry Street on a welfare check and located a 21-year-old female from Newark with active warrants. She was transported and booked into Santa Rita Jail.
- 11:44 p.m.: Officers responded to a trespassing call on the 6000 block of Mowry Avenue. Five individuals were arrested and released on
a citation for trespassing, including: 24-year-old male from Newark, 27-year-old male from Gilroy, 21-year-old male from Hayward, 25-year-old female from Hayward
Continuing Events:
Mondays and Thursdays
Food Garden Volunteer
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Learning from experienced gardeners.
LEAF CR Stone Garden
55 Mowry Ave., Fremont
vo*******@fr*********.org
Volunteer agreement form is required.
Tuesdays
East Bay Games Meet
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
German/Euro style board games and card games.
Swiss Park
5911 Mowry Ave., Newark
(510) 936-2523
meetup.com/east-bay-games
Tuesdays
LEGO® Time
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Use your imagination and engineering skills to create your own LEGO® designs.
Centerville library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
Drop-in. For everyone.
Tuesdays
Music and Storytime
11:30 am – 12:00 pm
Join us for stories, music, and movement.
Cherryland Community Center
278 Hampton Road, Hayward
(510) 626-8522
For babies, toddlers, kids, and preschoolers.
Tuesdays
Comfort & Joy Ukulele R
1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
A group of ukulele players with volunteer leaders to practice familiar songs as well as learning new.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Tuesdays
East Indian Seniors R
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Anyone who is retired and of Indian origin or interested in Indian culture is welcome to join us.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Second and Fourth Tuesdays of the month
Wednesdays
Folk Dancing Social R
9:00 am – 10:30 am
Join together in the wonderful spirit of dancing and savor the beautiful music from all over the world.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Wednesdays
Book Club AWC R
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
The book club meets for stimulating discussions.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Second and fourth Wednesdays of the month
Thursdays
International Folk Dancing R$
11:15 pm – 1:00 pm
Celebrate the cultural roots and traditional life of various countries.
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
In English and Chinese.
Thursdays
Bocce Ball Class R
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Learn how to play Bocce Ball.
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
Rain will cancel class.
Thursdays
Chinese Calligraphy Social R
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Bring your own supplies and socialize and have fun while doing calligraphy.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
There is no teaching on site.
Thursdays
Historic Days
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Ride a narrow-gauge train, tour the beautifully restored Patterson House Museum. Every historic day ends with an animal feeding at 3 pm. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required. Disabled accessible.
Ardenwood Farms
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
Ardenwood admission fee applies.
Thursdays
Chinese Music Ensemble R
1:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Open to all who are interested in performing traditional Chinese music.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Thursdays
Family Board Game Night
3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Play together with family and friends, or make some new friends at the library.
Centerville library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
Board games will be provided.
Thur
sdays
The Peaceful Poets
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Join a Milpitas-based group of writers and appreciators of poetry.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
For teens, adults, and seniors.
Last Thursdays of the month
Thursdays and Saturdays
Story Time
10:30 am – 11:00 am
Picture book story time
Banter Bookshop
3768 Capitol Ave. Ste. F, Fremont
(510) 565-1004
bit.ly/3VFpbc
Thursday, April 4 – Saturday, May 25
HumanEssence Exhibit
12 noon – 5 pm
The Olive Hyde Art Gallery proudly presents HumanEssence ‐ a photography exhibition featuring portraits by Suszi Lurie McFadden paired with abstracts by Brandon Stauffer.
Virtual Exhibit: Thursday, March 28 – Saturday, May 25
Olive Hyde Gallery
123 Washington Blvd., Fremont
(510) 791-4357
Free
Fridays, December 29 – May 10
Go: The Game R
3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Go is an ancient game of strategy. To learn the game or to play it.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
All ages and levels
Friday – Saturday, through April 27
‘Birds! Birds! Birds!’ exhibition
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Exhibit celebrates beauty and diversity of birdlife
Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center
4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward
(510) 670-7270
Fridays, January 12 – March 29
African Dance and Culture R$
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Experience the joy and vitality of African Dance!
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Fridays, January 12 – March 29
Aloha Vibes R
10:30 am – 12:30 pm
A group of musicians (all instruments welcome) who wish to share multi-cultural and familiar music with others.
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
Second and fourth Fridays of the month
Fridays and Saturdays
Free Telescope Viewings
7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Join Chabot astronomers on the Observatory Deck for a free telescope viewing!
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
chabotspace.org/calendar
Weather permitting.
Saturdays
Laugh Track City R$
8:00 pm
Series of improvised games and scenes
Made Up Theatre
4000 Bay St. suite B., Fremont
(510) 573-3633
madeuptheatre.com
Saturdays
Free Beginner Pickleball Lesson
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Free pickleball lesson taught by a USPA professional.
Hall Memorial Park
304 La Honda Dr, Milpitas
(408) 586-3210
Drop-in. Weather permitting.
Saturdays
Teen Cohort for Outdoor Education R$
10 am -4 pm
Meet new friends, build outdoor skills, and get to know your community as we participate in activities, such as Hayward Shoreline Hike and Clean-Up, Quarry Lakes Excursion; Coyote Hills Excursion; Fishing; rock climbing on our 28-foot rock wall, hiking; and a Sulphur Creek Guided Tour.
Ashland Community Center
1530 167th Avenue, San Leandro
Noel Munivez: (510) 317-2303
Sundays
Farmyard Games
1:00 pm
Life on a farm wasn’t all work and no play. Join us for some old-fashioned fun! Try your hand at classic American pastimes including stilts, sack races, and the potato-spoon race. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required. Ardenwood admission fee applies.
Ardenwood Farms
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
Sundays
Weekly meditation Session R
8:30 am – 9:30 am
Explore the effortless way to ultimate bliss.
India Community Center
525 Los Coches St., Milpitas
(408) 934-1130
samarpanmeditationusa.org
in**@in*****.org
,
in**@sa*******************.org
Sundays – Saturdays
Recreational Swim $
12:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Attractions may vary.
Silliman Activity and Family Aquatic Center
6800 Mowry Ave., Newark
(510) 578-4620
bit.ly/3nxo0is
Sundays
Larry “O” Teen Workshop
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Used bikes, bike parts for sale and bike repair.
Larry Orozco Teen Workshop
33623 Mission Blvd., Union City
(510) 675-5487
www.unioncity.org/723/Larry-O-Teen-Workshop
Ro*****@un*******.org
Donation accepted.
Second and fourth Sundays of the month
Upcoming Events
Wednesday, March 27
Morning Book Club
9:30 am – 10:30 am
We are excited to announce that our Morning Book Club selection will be The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman. The Thursday Murder Club was originally published in the UK in 2020 but quickly became an International Best Seller and remains on the New York Times Best Seller list today.
Banter Bookshop
3788 Capitola Ave., Ste. F, Fremont
(510) 585-1004
Wednesday, March 27
Spring Into Steam Event
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Family-friendly evening with fun STEAM activities, giveaways, FUSD’s STEAM Scavenger Hunt, food trucks, music, free raffle prizes, and more.
Downtown Event Center
3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont
Free
Thursday, March 28
Ramadan Storytime
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Come and listen to stories and songs to celebrate Ramadan! This storytime is recommended for ages 3-6 and their families. After storytime, join us for a fun craft to do together.
Fremont Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Saturday, March 30
Edible Perennial Gardening
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Working with Compost Gal Lori Caldwell, participants will discover that perennials are the perfect foundation for your edible or permaculture gardens. Learn the many benefits of perennials and how to add them to your landscape. Topics will include perennial types, when and how to plant, propagation and maintenance.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Saturday, March 30
Adult Art Night – Exploring Polymer Clay
6:00 – 7:30 pm
Janine Pitta Art Studio
37161 Niles Blvd. Unit A, Fremont
$30
Saturday, March 30
National Poetry Month Workshop
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Join us for a special workshop for kids and teens to celebrate National Poetry Month.
Centerville Library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
Saturday, March 30
Egg-Cellent Eggs
11:00 am
Discover the amazing diversity of bird eggs and how they are adapted for different environments, then make and decorate your own wild bird egg model to take home and fill with treats! All ages. Parent participation required. Parking fees apply where charged. Disabled accessible. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required.
Coyote Hills Regional Park
8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont
(510) 544-3220.
Saturday, March 30
Meet the Bunnies
10:30 am – 11:30 am
Come meet the farm rabbits. Learn why they have big ears, their favorite food and how they communicate. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required.
Ardenwood Farms
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
Saturday, March 30
78th Egg Hunt and Bonnet Parade
9:00 am
Egg Hunt: 10 am
There are four egg hunt age categories: Ages 1-2 years, ages 3-4 years, ages 5-6 years, and ages 7-9 years. The Bonnet Parade registration will begin promptly at 9:00 am. Bonnet Parade participants must be 6 years and under and all bonnets must be homemade and be worn by the participants during the parade to qualify. Participants will have their homemade bonnets judged in the following categories: the prettiest, most unusual, and most colorful. The egg hunt will immediately follow the Bonnet Parade.
Kennedy Park
19501 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
Free
Sunday, March 31
Easter Sunrise Service
6:30 a.m.
Niles Town Plaza
37592 Niles Blvd, Fremont
(510) 797-0895
Sunday, March 31
Old Fashioned Butter Makin’
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Discover an easy way to make butter from cream then sample your tasty concoction on crackers! This is a drop-in program; no registration is required.
Ardenwood Farms
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
Monday, April 1
The Magic of Germar
1:00 pm – 2:00
pm
An award-winning magician and author will be performing in honor of Día de los Niños. This program is perfect for the whole family.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Friday, April 5
Family Movie Night
The Little Mermaid
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
An evening of cinematic delight in the DMT for a family-friendly screening of The Little Mermaid (2023). Before the movie, we’ll have a few activities for you to enjoy, including a photobooth with Ariel, underwater-themed crafts, and sea-themed snacks.
Douglas Morrisson Theatre
2231 N Third St., Hayward
Visit www.bit.ly/HARDMovieTLM to register.
Saturday, April 6
Meek Mansion Guided Tour: The Meek Family
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Learn more about the three generations of Meeks who lived in the mansion and their impact on the Hayward area. Tour lasts approximately 60 minutes and will take guests to the second floor. Recommended for ages 14+
Meek Mansion
17365 Boston Road, Hayward
(510) 581-0223
Tickets: $15 general admission, Free for HAHS Members.
Monday, April 8
Solar Eclipse
10:00 am – 1:00 pm
All ages, family-friendly.
This spring, catch our last chance to experience a solar eclipse in our own back yard until 2045! Experience this amazing celestial event from Chabot’s Observation Deck, where we’ll have a stellar view of the sun as it passes through 34% totality over Oakland. Enjoy coffee, hot chocolate and eclipse crafts in our Astronomy Hall, catch the NASA livestream in our 20-inch Telescope, Rachel, and make your mark on the Center with interactive exhibit.
Chabot Space & Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd. Oakland
(510) 336-7300
$25 Adults, $20 Kids/Students/Seniors
Friday, April 12
Theatre Chorus: Stage and Screen
8:00 pm
The Douglas Morrisson Theatre is thrilled to present Stage and Screen, a selection of music from movies, broadway, and opera directed by Cesar Cancino. Come out and support the local arts and enjoy a magical night of music.
Douglas Morrisson Theatre
22311 N 3rd St., Hayward
Friday, April 12
Human Essence Exhibit Opening Reception
7 pm – 9 pm
The Olive Hyde Art Gallery proudly presents Human Essence ‐ a photography exhibition featuring portraits by Suszi Lurie McFadden paired with abstracts by Brandon Stauffer. All are invited to our opening reception to meet the artists and enjoy the night with fellow art enthusiasts.
Olive Hyde Gallery
123 Washington Blvd., Fremont
(510) 791-4357
Free
Saturday, April 13
Groovin’ Back to the 60’s: Celebrating 60 years
4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Groovy vibes, live and silent auctions, complete BBQ dinner
Niles Canyon Mobile Home Park
711 Old Canyon Rd., Fremont
Monday, April 15
This is Who I am – Come and Hear My Story
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Come and hear the stories of those who lived in this area for over forty years and experienced misunderstandings and racism, hear the stories of those who had to flee their country when their life was in danger, those whose friends lost their lives in the war across the ocean, come and hear us. Come and try to understand what it means to walk in our shoes. Please bring your questions.
Newark Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Tuesday, April 16
Author Event – For Forks Sake
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Rachael J. Brown shares her family’s story, along with tried-and-true tips and tricks, to simplify the science of Whole Food, Plant-Based, No Oil (WFPBNO) and jump-start the journey to better health for you, your family, and the planet. With this 10-day guide, say goodbye to the Standard American Diet (SAD) and start eating better, feeling better, and saving more money with a HAPPY (healthy and plant-powered—yay!) diet.
Banter Bookshop
3768 Capitol Ave., Ste F, Fremont
(510) 565-1004
Saturday, April 20
Arab American Heritage Month- Egyptian Music
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Join us for a trio of world-class musicians performing Egyptian music to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month. Registration recommended
Newark Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Saturday, April 20
Celebrate Earth Day
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Join ForestR.org and other partners for an Earth Day celebration! Activities include seeds from the seed library, plant swap, harvest swap, children’s activities and revitalization of Sage Park (starting at 2:00 p.m.). All ages are welcome to join us for this fun and informative event.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Saturday, April 20
Explore the Paranormal at Meek Mansion and McConaghy House
7 pm – 1 am
Experienced investigators lead attendees through the properties with access to all non-restricted areas. Data collected on previous investigations inclu
de electronic voice phenomena (EVP), cold spots, touches, apparitions and much more.
Tickets must be purchased in advance. Proceeds support the ongoing maintenance and preservation of these historic properties. Equipment is not provided. Ages 18+
Meek Mansion
17365 Boston Road, Hayward
(510) 581-0223
Tickets are $75
Saturday, April 20
Fremont’s Earth Day Fair
11:00am – 3:00 pm
Explore how you can contribute to a more sustainable future, while enjoying a day full of fun, learning, and community spirit. Dive into Earth Day-themed art, games, and creative activities.
Food Trucks, Confidential Document Shredding, Free Basic Bike Tune-Ups,
Eyeglasses Donation, and more!
Fremont Downtown Event Center & Plaza
3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont
Saturday, April 20
ART Inc.: Susan Chan art demo
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Her work has graced the halls of the De Young Museum, Liaoning Provincial Museum, Liu Hai-Su Museum, National Chiang Kia-Shek Memorial Hall. Bring your imagination and create the landscape of your dreams.
Adobe Art Gallery
20395 San Miguel Ave., Castro Valley
Sunday, April 21
Wildflower, Art, & Garden Show
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Spring Wildflower Festival and Garden Tour is a Spring Festival where dozens of vendors showcase and sell everything from plants and flowers to seeds, bulbs, garden décor, art, quilts, and much more. Many homeowners in Niles also open up their gardens for public tours. The event is free to the public, but if you wish to take the garden tour you must purchase a ticket.
Garden tour starts outside My Friends and I store located at 37521 Niles Blvd, Fremont
Niles Town Plaza
37482 Niles Blvd., Fremont
(510) 857-6512
Saturday, April 27
HERS Breast Cancer Foundation’s 15th Annual People with Purpose Gala
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Event elements will include a reception with a delicious signature pink cocktail and access to a full bar, fundraising games, silent and live auctions, a three-course dinner with wine, our HERS awards presentation and much more.
The Club at Castlewood
707 Country Club Dr., Pleasanton
Saturday, April 27
Fremont Creates Grand Final Event
11:00 am – 3:00 pm
4 venues at Fremont Downtown Events Center (DTEC), multiple performances scheduled simultaneously, makerspace with activities for children, exhibits, food trucks, informational space for sponsors, performers, organizations
Fremont Downtown Event Center
3500 Capital Ave., Fremont
Free
Saturday, April 27
Lit Hop Downtown Hayward
2:00 pm – 8:00 pm
We’ll hop from place to place to different venues near B Street to hear performances including the AfroSurreal Writers Association, students from Chabot College, a bilingual Spanish/English reading, the Queer Writers, local Horror Writers’ and Mystery Writers’ Association chapters, the Peer Writers’ Group and much more. The event concludes with an afterparty at the Odd Fellows Lodge where we will have music, food and drinks.
Various locations
B St., Hayward
Haywardlithop.com
Saturday, April 27
Photo Day at the Museum
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
We are aiming to show the diverse stories of Hayward as we gear up for the City’s 150th birthday in 2026. Do you have family photos that show moments in time worth being remembered for generations to come? Bring them to the HAHS Museum on this day to be scanned and digitally added to our collection. You keep the original! Please limit to 12 photos per person.
Hayward Area Historical Society
22380 Foothill Blvd., Hayward
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