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Berkeley celebrates all things BOOK
By Stephanie Gertsch
Like many good things, the “Bay Area Book Festival” started with someone noticing what was missing and creating what she wanted to see. In this case, it was Festival founder Cherilyn Parsons, who on moving to the Bay Area in 2009, missed the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. In 2015, she was able to launch the Bay Area book festival she had imagined, with help from sponsors and co-organizers. The first festival had 300 authors and a lively outdoor fair. After the 2016 election, the festival grew to incorporate more social justice-oriented themes, and in 2020 the event went virtual for Covid safety. But the vibe has always been curious, inclusive, and fun. In 2023, Parsons stepped down as Executive Director, and in 2024, with new Managing Director Samee Roberts, the Festival will celebrate its 10th year.
This year the festival occurs over two weekends—with a special family day on May 4 with readings and panels geared toward kids, teens, and parents; and the main festival the first weekend in June. Saturday workshops are geared toward writers, with speakers weighing in on how to develop skills—from travel writing to haiku to historical fiction—and even how to navigate the publishing world, or create a space for writers in your community.
In just one example, poet Judy Halebsky, director of the MFA program at Dominican University of California, is one of the panelists at Saturday’s workshop “Breaking Through: Finding the Unexpected in Your Writing.” In a world where art is increasingly commodified and tailored to fit algorithms, this workshop is about being open to the inherent surprises in the writing process. Halebsky shares that even when she reaches a place where she thinks she knows where a work will go, often “another voice comes in.” She says, “And I always try to follow that.”
The fellow panelists from Dominican show this flexible style isn’t only for poets. Iris Jamahl Dunkle writes biographies of overlooked literary women. Lee Kravetz will talk about narrative medicine, the practice of incorporating writing into the healing process. Overall, says Halebsky, “How you feel writing it is also how you feel reading it. To revise in a way where the fun and inspiration and aliveness of the process is still there [in the piece] in its final form.”
Some authors will participate both days, like Faith Adiele, Chair of the Writing & Literature Program at California College of the Arts, who will be at the workshop “Take Me Away! Writing About Places Near and Far.” Travel writing can take many forms, any time readers are immersed in a sense of place. Adiele talks about how it’s also important to question the tropes. “We not only have to change the stories and change who gets to be the traveler, and widen our definition of travel, but actually look at the words that we use…because they’re very acquisitional. Like, ‘You’ve worked so hard, you deserve to go to this place where people will perform authenticity for you so that you can relax!’”
On Sunday, Adiele will join the panel “Immigration Narratives: Expansive Genres, Expansive Identities” which explores how the stories we tell around immigration also impact the legal system and how people vote around these issues. She shares, “If you go to the courts for your hearing, and you don’t tell the kind of narrative we expect…it’s not seen as valid.” The panel encompasses many genres and perspectives: Lauren Markham speaking on the criminalization of migration, Bill Hing on racial justice in the U.S. immigration system, and Tessa Hulls on experiences across multiple generations of Chinese women. Adiele shares on her own experiences on identity and belonging, growing biracial in a family of Scandinavian-American immigrants, and then journeying to Nigeria to find her father’s side of the family.
Sunday is also the outdoor fair, with 100 exhibitors, ranging from authors, independent booksellers, writing clubs, illustrators, reading resources, and more. (Of course, there’s also a food court.) Closing out the evenings of both days will be ticketed speaker events with celebrated authors. This year the festival welcomes Naomi Klein, Joan Baez, Viet Thanh Nguyen, Piper Kerman, and Alka Joshi.
“The beauty of the festival is that it’s so inclusive from wherever you are,” Adiele reflects. “If you’re a reader, if you’re a budding writer, if you’re an experienced, accomplished writer, if you have kids. That’s what I love about it. They’ve got this whole family day part, this year Saturday is leaning onto these free workshops for people to dip their toes into different types of writing. There’s an incredible amount of diversity too. It’s not just literary writing, there’s genre stuff. There’s key important stuff about putting together multi-racial, political movements. I think there’s something for everyone.”
10th Bay Area Book Festival
Saturday, Jun 1 – Sunday, Jun 2
11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center Park
2151 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Berkeley
Berkeley Public Library
2090 Kittredge St., Berkeley
Freight & Salvage
2020 Addison St., Berkeley
Tickets to evening speaker events: $20
Butterfly and Bird Festival
Submitted by East Bay Regional Park District
Photos by Victor Carvellas
Join us at our annual celebration to connect with parks, people, and pollinators and mark the Park District’s 90th anniversary. Enjoy garden tours, family-friendly activities, special presentations, music, and more!
Held on Sunday, June 2, this community event aims to support pollinators’ health and increase the number of species of butterflies, birds, and local pollinators across our Bay area landscapes.
The festival is suitable for all ages; parent participation required. Parking fees apply where charged. Wheelchair accessible. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required.
Butterfly and Bird Festival
Sunday, Jun 2
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Coyote Hills Regional Park
8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont
(510) 544-3220
https://www.ebparks.org/parks/coyote-hills
Leadership Fremont: The program is over, the work continues
By Stephanie Gertsch
On May 22, the 2023 – 2024 Leadership Fremont Cohort celebrated a year of developing career skills and helping their community. Each year, the program takes a team of aspiring business leaders and guides them through a course of professional development, where participants get the chance to make a difference for a real community organization. This cohort chose the Afghan Elderly Association (AEA), a nonprofit that works to improve the lives of Afghan women in the Tri-City Area.
In particular, Leadership Fremont had the goal of raising funds for the social meal portion of AEA’s Healthy Aging program. These weekly lunches allow the Afghan ladies to share a meal, access health and nutrition services, and just get out of the house and have fun with friends. But renting a big enough space with a kitchen is costly, especially since the pandemic. Leadership Fremont’s goal was to raise $35,000 in monetary donations and $5,000 in in-kind donations. Their final count is $41,653.50 in monetary donations and $6,616.74 in in-kind donations.
Nasrat Quarabaghy, Administrative Assistant with AEA, says, “The Afghan Elderly Association is delighted with the successful collaboration with the Leadership Fremont class of 2024…This partnership significantly boosted our community engagement and support for our Healthy Aging Program. It was the first time that AEA received such tremendous support from Leadership Fremont, and the outcome has been amazing.”
Ava Lazor, a member of the Leadership Fremont cohort (otherwise Hydrogeologist for the Alameda County Water District), reflects on the collaboration. “I think making a lasting, positive change is most successfully accomplished close to home. It’s incredible to me how much of a positive impact AEA has had at the hyper-local level, on Afghan people—and especially women—in the Tri-City area. AEA proves that an initiative to do great things for others in need is tenable, and I’m so proud that our cohort recognized the opportunity to partner with an organization we could help in a significant way.”
The collaboration will continue beyond graduation. Three Leadership Fremont Members—Ava Lazor, Muirgheal Forro (Operations and Outreach Manager, HERS Breast Cancer Foundation), and Matthew Sciamanna (Director of Nutrition and Services, Washington Hospital)—will join the AEA board of directors. Forro shares, “We are looking forward to guiding the group to further success. This experience not only allowed us to grow as individuals but most importantly utilized our strengths to come together and successfully accomplish our goals. We would not have done this all without the dedicated support of our local community.”
Fremont Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications for the next Leadership Fremont cohort. Information is on their website.
Leadership Fremont
https://www.fremontbusiness.com/leadership-fremont.html
Afghan Elderly Association
https://www.afghanelderlyassociation.org/home.html
Adopt a Pet Month
Submitted by Kelly Miott
The Tri-City Animal Shelter (TCAS)is waiving adoption fees on all animals in the shelter through June 29, 2024. Visit www.TriCityAnimalShelter.org/Adopt to apply!
TCAS provides animals with the appropriate vaccinations, flea treatment, deworming, and medical care to be ready for adoption and a new life. Additionally, all cats and dogs are spayed/neutered and microchipped before adoption. Based on our shelter resources, we provide treatment for the medical conditions found to be affecting the animal’s current quality of life while in the shelter.
Return of the Big Trucks
Submitted by City of Newark
Beep beep! Get ready to honk your horns and join the 2nd annual “Big Truck Day!” This free event, open to the public, is rolling into the Silliman Center’s parking lot by the turf fields on Wednesday, June 5 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon.
Kids of all ages can take pictures, ask questions, and climb aboard the coolest trucks in town. Discover the mighty machines that keep our city clean and safe, from gigantic garbage trucks to massive fire engines! But wait, there’s more! We’ll have arts and crafts, jumbo games, giveaways, and fun for the whole family.
Last year, we kicked off this celebration to honor our dedicated Public Works Department. Thanks to the Street, Parks, Fleet, and Building Divisions, we’ve had a blast showing off the hard work they do for Newark Recreation. This year, we’re shifting into high gear with special appearances by trucks from Newark Public Works, Newark Police Department, PG&E, and Alameda County Fire. The Kona Ice Truck will be there too, with special treats for purchase.
Don’t miss out on the truckload of fun! While registration isn’t required, we’d love to know if you’re coming so we can prepare for all our fantastic guests. Register now at newarkca.activityreg.com. Let’s make this Big Truck Day the biggest and best yet!
Big Truck Day
Wednesday, Jun 5
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon
Silliman Center
6800 Mowry Ave., Newark
newarkca.activityreg.com
State and Local Climate Change Law
Submitted by Republic Services
Did you know that all residents and businesses in California are required to separate compostable (organic) and recyclable materials from landfill (garbage) materials? This requirement was established by California Senate Bill (SB) 1383, the State’s mandatory organics reduction and recycling law, which is implemented in Union City under Municipal Code Chapter 7.24 in partnership with Republic Services, Tri-CED Community Recycling, StopWaste, and the Alameda County Environmental Health Department.
Why Should I Compost?
When food scraps and other compostable materials such as food-soiled paper and yard trimmings break down in landfills, they produce m
ethane, a harmful greenhouse gas 80x more potent than carbon dioxide. Landfills in California are responsible for 20% of statewide methane emissions. When Union City residents place compostable materials in their green compost cart, they not only reduce methane emissions and address climate change, but they also create compost – a valuable soil amendment that retains moisture, conserves water, and nourishes plants and trees.
Union City residents are provided a Food Scraps Kitchen Pail to conveniently collect and transport food scraps and food-soiled paper to your green curbside compost cart. Please contact Republic Services at (510) 657-3500 to request a Kitchen Pail at no additional cost. Remember to place compostable materials such as yard trimmings and untreated wood directly in the curbside compost cart.
Visit www.unioncityrecycles.org to learn more about what is accepted in Union City’s curbside compost collection program and to download free resources. Visit StopFoodWaste.org for simple shopping, cooking, and food storage tips to prevent food waste from being generated in the first place.
Town Hall – ‘A Conversation on Homelessness in Castro Valley/Eden Area – Reality, Challenges and Resources’
Submitted by Jo Loss
The Castro Valley Women’s Club (CVWC) and League of Women Voters Eden Area will be presenting a Town Hall on June 8, at the CVWC clubhouse on Redwood Road.
Our goal is to educate and engage the “average community member” about the realities, challenges and resources that surround homelessness. This event is being held to give people the information and tools they can use to better understand and cope with situations they encounter.
The panel will feature five speakers from different areas of working with the unhoused: Aaron Horner, Pastor of Community Outreach, First Pres; Officer Oliveri, California Highway Patrol; Melissa Moore, Street Medicine Institute; Sabrina Fuentes- Case Manager HEPPAC and Lucy Kasdin, Director of Alameda County Healthcare for the Homeless program.
They will have the opportunity to educate and engage our community with their expertise and real-life experience. Audience members will hear honest stories about the people they see each day and the situations that create and impact unhoused individuals. The League will collect questions from the audience for the panelists.
The event will also feature tabling by programs assisting the unhoused to provide context to the conversation. Organizations are welcome to contact LWVEA to participate.
This forum is being held in support of the goal of the Castro Valley Community Alliance to support the unhoused within Eden Area.
Town Hall on Homelessness
Saturday, Jun 8
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
18330 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
Coyote Advisory
Submitted by Flora Csontos
As visitation to East Bay Regional Parks increases in warmer months, encounters with coyotes become more common. Coyotes are native to California and are found in various wildland habitats, as well as in rural and urban areas. They hold cultural and ecological importance throughout the state.
Coyote parents are active and protective of den sites from spring through fall, when new pups are born. It is a normal reaction for them to run away when spotted, although some have become used to human presence and will continue their activities while being watched. Visitors are encouraged to keep coyote safety precautions in mind when visiting Regional Parks throughout the year.
Coyote Safety Tips
- Avoid hiking alone so you have help in case of emergency.
- Keep children and pets nearby; keep your dog(s) on a leash.
- Be aware of your surroundings as you walk, jog, or ride.
- Stay on trails.
- Never attempt to feed a coyote.
What to do if you see a coyote
Keep an eye on the coyote and observe from afar. Do not approach or engage with the coyote; walk away calmly and leave the area quickly. Do not run. If you have small children, keep them close by. If you have a small dog, keep them on a leash.
What to do if approached by a coyote
Rarely, a coyote may approach you. If a coyote moves within 50 feet and does not go away on its own, encourage the coyote to move away to help it retain a natural fear of humans.
- Be as big and loud as possible; shout in a deep, loud, and aggressive voice.
- Wave your arms.
- Keep dogs and children nearby.
- Maintain eye contact, which can make coyotes uncomfortable and timid.
- If the coyote continues to approach, do not run or turn your back on the coyote but continue to exaggerate the above gestures while backing away slowly.
Help protect all wildlife and their environment. Never feed, approach, or pet wild animals. For emergencies, contact 911 or the East Bay Regional Park District Public Safety line (510) 881-1833, 24 hours a day.
For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/safety.
‘Meet Me at the Mission’ Exquisite Gala
Submitted by Gary Dorighi
In the earliest days of the 19th century, Old Mission San José was the literal center of the region and thus an important landmark for people from distant locales to “meet up.”
On Saturday, June 8 starting at 5 p.m., The Committee for Restoration of the Mission San José invites you to “meet up” at its “Meet Me at the Mission” Fundraising Gala, an evening of wine, food, and music held in the beautiful Mission Patio Garden. You will experience wonderful mariachi music to greet you, local wine by Mission Peak Vineyards, tasty tapas, a historic artwork silent auction, an organ concert of 17th century music followed by luxurious desserts.
Advance tickets are required and can be purchased at https://crmsjca.org. (Go to “Gala Tickets” at the menu at the top of the screen.) Sponsorship opportunities are st
ill available at https://crmsjca.org/gala2024 or by contacting cr*****@gm***.com. All proceeds support the preservation and restoration needs of Mission San José.
‘Meet Me at the Mission’ Exquisite Gala
Saturday, Jun 8
5 p.m. Mariachi Greeting, silent auction
7 p.m. Spanish Organ Concert, dessert reception
Mission Patio Garden
43300 Mission Blvd., Fremont
(510) 657-1797
https://crmsjca.org
Tickets: $85
Park District Launches Pilot Program to Expedite Entry to Del Valle Regional Park on Weekends and Holidays
Submitted by Jen Vanya
Beginning Memorial Day weekend (Saturday, May 25), the Park District is launching a pilot project to streamline entry at Del Valle Regional Park on weekends and holidays. Under the pilot project, visitors will pay a single $10 flat fee to enter the park rather than individual fees based on park use. The $10 flat fee will cover parking, trailers, and dogs.
As part of the pilot project, a limited number of advance park entry passes will also be available for purchase. Advance park entry passes can be purchased at http://apm.activecommunities.com/ebparks/Activity_Search/52680.
Fishing and quagga inspection fees are not included in the $10 flat fee and will be available for purchase in the marina area.
Entering the park will look a little different with the pilot project.
- As vehicles approach the kiosk, there will be a separate line for pre-paid parking, visitors with camping reservations (not picnic reservations), Park District staff, and residents.
- Regional Parks Foundation members can enter through the pre-paid line, as free park entry and parking is a membership benefit. Learn more at www.regionalparksfoundation.org/join.
The pilot project is testing potential ways to improve the visitor experience and reduce traffic congestion when entering the park on busy spring and summer weekends and holidays. The pilot project runs through Labor Day weekend (Monday, Sept. 2).
The Del Valle Entry Fee Pilot Project was developed by park staff to better serve the public through a faster and easier park entrance experience and increased public information services within the park.
Missing Hiker and Dog Found Safe
Submitted by Jen Vanya
The missing person has been located. Alex Stecher and his dog Apollo were located in good health on May 20 at approximately 12:15 p.m., by workers in the area of San Antonio Reservoir. The East Bay Regional Park District would like to thank all of the volunteers and allied agencies who responded to assist with the search including Alameda County Sheriff Search and Rescue (SAR), Cal SAR, and the National Guard.
New Haven Schools Foundation Celebrates Pathways to Success Scholarship Awards
Submitted by Helen Kennedy
The New Haven Schools Foundation (NHSF) proudly hosted its 17th annual Pathways to Success Scholarship Awards event on May 21, 2024. This year’s ceremony saw a record-breaking 246 scholarships awarded to 150 deserving local students, totaling an unprecedented $240,000 in scholarship funds.
Held at James Logan High School, the event was a celebration of academic achievement and potential for students from Logan, Conley-Caraballo High School, and the Decoto School for Independent Study. The Performing Arts Center was filled with proud families, educators, community leaders, and donors, all gathered to honor the hard work and dedication of the students.
NHSF President John Shockley opened the ceremony. “Each of these scholarships represents a belief in the power of education to transform lives,” said Shockley. “We are incredibly proud of our students and grateful to our donors for making these opportunities possible.”
The event’s top sponsors included Fremont Bank and Kaiser Permanente, along with Albert and Marsha Badella, Supervisor Elisa Márquez, and Washington Township Medical Foundation. NHSF was also presented with a $95,000 grant from Kaiser Permanente to fund mental health telehealth services in New Haven Unified School District, and a $6,000 grant from Dawn Foods to support the scholarship program.
The scholarships, which range from academic and athletic awards to those recognizing community service and overcoming personal challenges, are designed to support students as they pursue higher education and career training. The diversity of scholarships ensures that a wide array of students benefit from this support.
This year’s event was particularly notable for the significant increase in both the number of scholarships and the total amount awarded. This achievement is a testament to the growing support from the community and the dedication of the NHSF to expanding opportunities for students in Union City.
One of the program’s highlights was the presentation of the Community Service All Star Awards, given to five students who have performed a combined 7,543 hours of volunteer work during their high school careers. Executive Director Helen Kennedy presented the awards to Anisha Pallikonda, Anoushla Kolluru, Fatima Khawaja, Sripradha Manikantan, and Awesta Amiri.
The keynote speaker for the event was San Francisco District Attorney, Brooke Jenkins, an alum of the James Logan High School Class of 1999. She shared the story of her college and career success. The main message was that when opportunity knocks, students should be ready to answer and open to exploring unexpected change.
Each year, the Foundation selects an exemplary scholarship sponsor for the Art and Cheryl Kuhlmann Award. This year’s honoree was Kay Emanuele, who has been a supporter of NHSF since it was founded in 1981 by her husband, Superintendent Guy Emanuele.
The New Haven Schools Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to all the sponsors, donors, volunteers, and community members who have contributed to the success of the Pathways to Success Scholarship program. Scholarship sponsors include individuals, families, alumni, local businesses, and numerous organizations. The full list of sponsors may be found here: https://nhsfoundation.awardspring.com/Home/Donor
s.
For more information about the New Haven Schools Foundation and how to support future scholarship initiatives, visit www.nhsfoundation.org.
Newark Develops Broadband Master Plan
By Jack Alcorn
At Newark’s April 25 City Council meeting consultants from Government Technology Group (GTG) presented a draft Broadband Master Plan. The presentation included a ‘Smart City’ Report recommending strategies for the city to increase the availability, affordability, and quality of broadband Internet services.
In March 2021, the federal government awarded the City of Newark $11.8 million in post pandemic recovery funds for economic stimulation. In October 2021, Newark approved two spending initiatives for these funds that support new infrastructure to provide robust broadband services throughout the city.
The first initiative, development of a Citywide Broadband Master Plan, was allocated $200,000. The second initiative, broadband infrastructure (partial implementation of the Master Plan), was allocated $1,000,000. The City of Newark then received $1.8 million from the State of California to follow findings, recommendations and strategies of the Broadband Master Plan. The grant allows Newark to focus on the priorities developed through the Master Plan process and improve the existing broadband network.
In March 2023, Newark City Council approved a contract with Government Technology Group (GTG) to develop the Plan. The April 25 report to the City Council includes the progress made on the draft Broadband Master Plan and Smart City Report. The final Broadband Master Plan and Smart City Report will be presented at a future City Council meeting.
Development of the Broadband Master Plan employed a collaborative effort that included staff and community input through surveys, meetings and workshops. Newark residents voiced a desire to improve Internet reliability and speeds in the city, including wireless and 5G technologies.
Smart City broadband infrastructure enables innovation in business. Communities are demanding new communication speeds to simplify and speed up their work. Fiber infrastructure provides efficient error-free communications that allow for real time-sharing of information between city facilities, including traffic signals and public safety. A new broadband network will also improve Internet services for residents, businesses, schools, health services, and other organizations.
Broadband is a 21st century challenge, ranked as one of the most important technology investments. Broadband is key for economic development, competitiveness, job creation and more prosperous communities. The City of Newark’s Broadband Master Plan is a framework for the next ten years that will facilitate the city’s mission of providing superior public services that enhance the quality of life for the community.
The Council voiced no opposition to the direction of the plan and the Mayor endorsed the effort. “I want to be a Smart City,” said Council Member Sucy Collazo.
Newark Symphonic Winds Free Summer Concert
Submitted by Jim Carter
Newark Symphonic Winds invites you to transition into summer with a free concert at Newark Memorial High School on Saturday, June 1.
We’ll begin this evening’s performance with “Commonwealth Fanfare,” composed by Carl Holmquist – a wonderful rapidly moving piece that is an exciting introduction to this evening’s performance. Next will be a medley of the best-known compositions of the great Dave Brubeck in “Dave Brubeck: It’s About Time,” arranged by Charles Sayre. It is laced with the iconic and unusual tempos for which Brubeck is so well known. Following Brubeck will be “The Parting Glass” by Matt Conaway, an extremely expressive and flowing composition. We’ll end the first half of our performance with a medley of tunes from the box-office breaking musical “WICKED” written by Stephan Schwartz and arranged by Jay Bocook in “Selections from WICKED.”
The second half of our performance will begin with the wonderful music of the extremely talented Pleasantones clarinet quartet. The quartet is comprised of Tony Altweis, Sydney Moura, Brenda Nixon, and Rob Mayfield. They will be performing “Ain’t Misbehavin’” by Fats Waller, “Golliwog’s Cakewalk” by Claude Debussy, “Java Jive” by Drake and Oakland, “Tico Tico” by Zequinha de Abreu, and “La Rana Loca” by Mike Curtis.
Once the Pleasantones complete their excellent performance, the symphony will then return to the stage and begin the second half of our performance with Alfred Reed’s “A Festival Prelude.” We’ll then continue with the “Symphonic Suite from The Band of Brothers” by Michael Kamen and arranged by Jerry Brubaker. Next will be “Festive Dance from Faust” composed by Charles Gounod and arranged by Andrew Glover. We’ll end our performance with an arrangement by Ira Hearshen of a medley of tunes by the Beatles: “Abbey Road: A Symphonic Portrait.”
We are once again extremely fortunate to have this performance sponsored by the Fremont Bank Foundation. As always, the concert is free of charge, and no tickets are necessary. Simply come and enjoy the evening with all of your local musicians – and – be certain to bring your family and friends.
As a reminder, we often have a full house at our performances; therefore, please plan on arriving early to get the seating you prefer. You can find more information about our performances on our website (https://newarksymphonic.org), as well as a map to the venue and parking information.
All our best wishes, and hope to see all of you Saturday evening June 1, 2024, at our Free Summer Concert.
Newark Symphonic Winds Free Summer Concert
Saturday, Jun 1
7 p.m.
Newark Memorial High School Theatre
39375 Cedar Blvd., Newark
(510) 552-7186
Flash Fiction Winners
For April 2024 Flash Fiction Contest, people wrote on the theme “Dreams.” We are running the winning entries in the paper. To read all the winners, and for information on the Fall 2024 contest, go to www.fremontculturalartscouncil.org.
Overdue
By Vincent Nghiem
On the car ride to school, I muster up the courage to ask my father what he wanted to be when he grew up.
“If I was born again,” he says slowly, “I wish I could be a doctor.”
He’s grizzled, past retirement age, and would rather chastise me for not eating breakfast or staying up too late last night rather than tell stories from his past. His employee badge, nestled in the tangles of his lanyard, momentarily gleams in the morning sunlight: “Electronic Technician”
He scoffs. Speaks of how, under the iron fist of the communists four decades ago, he was denied entry to medical school. How, when he fled to the U.S. years later, he couldn’t become a doctor because of his unfamiliarity with English. How bitter that language could taste.
I look at him. Headstrong, chiseled and as sturdy as a marble statue, yes, but weathered. There’s a boy peeking through the cracks, someone who laid his dreams down, let them decompose into a bed of soil sturdy enough for me to stand upon.
“Why?” Red light. “I wanted to help people. Help my family, help myself. I feel the same amount of satisfaction, working with electronics. But if I could do it over again…”
The sun glimmers through the windshield, and my father and I blink. Our eyes briefly meet in the rearview mirror. I fear that’s enough looking back for the day, or at least until the next time, sometime far away in the future, I’m brave enough to ask him another prying question.
My father looks at me and smiles, slaps me on the shoulder with a heavy, lined hand. “But I have you, and your brother and Mommy.” And I hope that we can shoulder his dreams together. Possibly.
Ohlone College empowers incarcerated individuals through the Rising Scholars Program
Submitted by Dr. Celina Barrios, Public Information Officer
Ohlone College proudly announces the expansion of its Rising Scholars Program, dedicated to supporting incarcerated, formerly incarcerated, and system-impacted students in pursuing their academic goals. Spearheaded by the passionate leadership of Brenda Ahntholz, Professor of Communication Studies and Gender & Women’s Studies, and Jose Alonzo, program coordinator, the Rising Scholars Program is a beacon of hope, offering tailored support services to empower individuals to reclaim their futures through education.
In a landscape where access to education remains a critical challenge for incarcerated individuals, the Rising Scholars Program stands as a transformative initiative. With a mission to guide students through their academic journey, the program offers personalized assistance in navigating the application process, scheduling counseling appointments, and accessing both on and off-campus resources. Additionally, the program informs students about Re-Entry Scholarships and provides success workshops available to all students to facilitate their transition into higher education.
Brenda Ahntholz, a dedicated professor and the driving force behind the Rising Scholars Program, exemplifies Ohlone College’s commitment to educational equity and access. Ahntholz has played a pivotal role in organizing trips for professors to visit Elmwood, facilitating planning meetings between our Rising Scholars team and the correctional facility’s programs department, developing courses, and more. “We believe in the power of education to break the cycle of incarceration and create brighter futures,” Ahntholz stated. “Through the Rising Scholars Program, we aim to provide incarcerated individuals with the support and resources they need to succeed both academically and personally.”
The impact of the Rising Scholars Program extends beyond individual transformation, contributing to broader societal goals. With California facing significant challenges in its criminal justice system, including high incarceration rates and staggering recidivism rates, education emerges as a potent tool for change. Studies have shown that education can reduce recidivism rates by as much as 38% to 43% (Davis et al., 2013), underscoring the importance of initiatives like the Rising Scholars Program in promoting rehabilitation and reintegration.
At the heart of the Rising Scholars Program lies a commitment to academic excellence and student empowerment. Elmwood Enrollment statistics reveal the program’s growing impact, with a notable increase in Ohlone class offerings and student enrollments. From courses in disciplines like DAID, COMM, and ENGL to student performances showcasing the transformative power of education, the Rising Scholars Program is a testament to the resilience and potential of every individual.
As Larissa’s COMM 130 class, Rose’s ENGL 101A class and our podcast class demonstrate, students within the Rising Scholars Program are not just hungry for education—they are eager to learn, grow, and contribute to their communities. Most notably, our podcast class gives our Elmwood students the opportunity to enlighten listeners about their journeys navigating life and education while incarcerated. Their voices, infused with life experiences and a thirst for knowledge, underscore the transformative potential of education behind bars.
Looking ahead, the Rising Scholars Program remains committed to expanding its reach, offering more classes, certificates, and even an AA degree at Elmwood. By recruiting additional faculty, enhancing student services, and building partnerships with released Elmwood students, Ohlone College is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
For more information about the Rising Scholars Program, please contact Jose Alonzo at ja******@oh****.edu or visit ohlone.edu/justice-involved-students-pathway-program
San Leandro Launches mobile app
Submitted by Paul Sanftner
The City of San Leandro is excited to announce the launch of My-SanLeandro, the new Mobile 311 app, which will officially launch on Monday, June 3rd, at 9 a.m. Before the official launch, the city invites residents to become “BETA” testers of the new app. Residents can download the app from the Apple or Google App stores or visit SanLeandro.org/Reportaconcern to submit a work request. We appreciate your patience with the previous Mobile 311 app and look forward to your feedback on the new app.
As part of the Community Care initiative, San Leandro’s My-SanLeandro is a mobile 311 application and website for residents to quickly and easily report non-emerge
ncy city-wide issues.
Emergency Reporting please note that My-SanLeandro is not monitored real-time 24/7. To report an immediate concern or emergency, please contact the San Leandro Police Department (non-emergency number) at (510) 577-2740 or dial 911.
Reporting a Concern Residents can now report issues for any of the following:
- Abandoned and illegally parked vehicles
- Code violations
- Overgrown vegetation
- Potholes
- Public property concerns
- Sidewalk damage
- Signage
- Trash, debris and litter
The city encourages residents to sign up for an account through the My-SanLeandro application to track inquiries and follow up on the status of the reported concern. In addition to tracking your concern on the My-SanLeandro app, city staff contacts are at the bottom of this page. It is highly recommended residents complete the My-SanLeandro request before contacting individual staff members.
Visit SanLeandro.org/ReportAConcern
City of San Leandro
835 East 14th St., San Leandro
(510) 577-3372
Summer Food Trucks
Special events
Dale Hardware Stars & Stripes BBQ
Saturday, May 25
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Dale Hardware
3700 Thornton Ave., Fremont
Pride Fair
Saturday, Jun 15
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
Dale Hardware 110th Anniversary Block Party
Saturday, Jun 29
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Dale Hardware
3700 Thornton Ave., Fremont
San Leandro Artisan Market
Saturday, Jul 13
11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
222 Davis St., San Leandro
Ongoing
Fremont Street Eats
Fridays
5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Downtown Event Center
3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont
Ohlone College Flea Market
Second Saturdays
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont
Photography—the Creative Realm
Submitted by Lina Melkonian
Fremont Art Association (FAA) is delighted to have Susan Harding as the guest artist at its virtual “General Meeting and Art Demo” on Wednesday, June 5 at 1 p.m.
Harding is an award-winning photographer whose thought-provoking body of work masterfully captures the essence of life’s fleeting moments with immense respect and compassion for her subjects. In her demo, “Photography—the Creative Realm,” Harding will showcase her intriguing approach and technique in creating collages that integrate her spellbinding photographic portraits with her intricate photorealistic charcoal drawings.
Harding holds a BFA from San José State University in Photography. She has exhibited her work from coast to coast in the U.S. as well as internationally. At her core, Harding is an unabashed and authentic storyteller. Her expansive body of work unveils intimate reflections of our humanity.
In one of her most recent and intriguing exhibitions, “La Vue” at San José State University in March 2024, Harding put the lens on how societal pressures from objectification to invisibility influence women’s relationships with their own bodies. Her creative process for this show involved thoughtful engagements with women to learn their stories, followed by a photoshoot and the selection of one image from the series of photographs for each subject. She then tore/cut the photograph apart and drew in the missing pieces. This consolidated representation of each woman, as Harding puts it, was the act of “tearing apart and putting back together stronger.”
Harding’s talent and life experiences have conspired to bring her to this juncture of boundless creative energy. Her genuine interest in her subjects, craftsmanship, and keen eye make us stop in our tracks to look at her exquisite photographs.
You may view Harding’s work at:
www.instagram.com/susan_harding_artographer/
The demo (free to attend) will be held via Zoom. Participants must register in advance and will receive the Zoom link via email. All details may be found on the Fremont Art Association webpage: www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo.
FAA General Meeting and Art Demo
Wednesday, June 5
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Register at:
www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo
Tick Season Advisory
Submitted by Flora Csontos
Whether you’re hiking in East Bay Regional Parks, venturing into nearby open spaces, or simply relaxing in your own yard, it’s important to be wary of ticks, which are often present in tall grass, brush, and wooded areas. Visitors are encouraged to keep tick safety precautions in mind when visiting East Bay Regional Parks throughout the spri
ng, summer, and fall seasons.
Ticks carry germs that can cause a number of diseases, including Lyme disease. Lyme disease is an infectious disease transmitted by the bite of a tick. It may be treated and cured with early diagnosis, but if not properly treated, it may persist in the body for years. Visit www.bayarealyme.org for more information.
What Does a Tick Look Like?
In California, the western black-legged tick is the major carrier of Lyme disease. The adult female is reddish brown with black legs, about 1/8 inch long. Males are smaller and entirely brownish black. Both are teardrop shaped. Most ticks can’t fly or jump. They wait on the tips of grasses and in shrubs along well-used paths. With their front legs outstretched, they easily climb aboard unsuspecting hosts when they brush by.
Tick Safety Tips
- Wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes.
- Tuck shirt into pants, and pants into socks.
- Use insect repellent on shoes, socks, and pants.
- Check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks thoroughly and frequently.
- Keep children and pets nearby. For maximum safety, consider keeping your dog on a leash.
- Stay on trails. Avoid brush and grassy areas.
What to do if bitten by a tick
- Pull the tick gently from the skin using a tissue or tweezers (not with bare hands).
- Scrape to remove any mouthparts left behind. An item such as a credit card can be used.
- Wash hands and the tick bite with soap and water; apply antiseptic to the bite. Prompt removal of ticks may prevent disease transmission.
- See a physician immediately if you think you have found a tick attached to your skin and you have any of the symptoms. Early symptoms may include a spreading rash accompanied by fever, aches, and/or fatigue.
Additional information is available at ebparks.org/safety/wildlife-encounters.
Union City Celebrates Earth Day with new Compost Hub
Submitted by City of Union City
This past month, Union City celebrated Earth Day 2024 with a ribbon cutting ceremony to unveil Union City’s Community Compost Hub located at 35700 Alvarado-Niles Road. The event was attended by esteemed guests including the City Council, representatives from Senator Aisha Wahab’s office, Assemblymember Liz Ortega’s office, Board Supervisor Elisa Márquez, City staff, and valued community partners, StopWaste, Republic Services, and Tri-CED Community Recycling.
At this self-serve Compost Hub, Union City residents can now pick up loose compost year-round at no additional cost. The Compost Hub represents a significant step forward in the City’s efforts to address climate change and adhere to the State mandate requiring cities to use material generated from residents and businesses composting food scraps, food-soiled paper, and yard trimmings through the City’s compost collection programs.
“This Compost Hub not only reflects our City’s dedication to environmental sustainability but also demonstrates the power of collaboration. Through the diligent efforts of City staff across multiple departments, we are proud to unveil the Compost Hub, which benefits our residents and positions our City well to meet state regulatory compliance,” stated Mayor Dutra-Vernaci.
Compost serves as a valuable natural fertilizer to enrich soils, it enhances soil structure, improves nutrient and water retention, reduces the need for fertilizers and pesticides, and increases microbial activity, ultimately fostering healthy plant growth and combating climate change by sequestering carbon.
“By offering this vital resource to our residents, we empower the community to engage in waste reduction efforts, promote soil health, and contribute to a resilient environment for future generations,” said Mayor Dutra-Vernaci. “Together, we are building a vibrant, sustainable future for Union City and beyond.”
Union City residents are encouraged to visit the self-serve City Compost Hub to obtain loose compost for their home gardens, contributing to the City’s sustainable future. For more information, please visit: www.UnionCity.org/Free-Compost.
Alameda County Water District awards scholarships at Annual WaterClips Student Video Contest
Submitted by Sharene Gonzales, Public Affairs Supervisor
The spotlight shined on Tri-City area students as the Alameda County Water District awarded contest winners at a special Board Meeting on May 15 for their cinematic achievements in the 5th annual WaterClips Student Video Contest. Over 100 students competing as individual or team entries submitted 30-second videos to raise awareness about an essential water topic – finding and fixing leaks.
Live-action and animated videos dominated submissions, with students vying for scholarships up to $500. The contest challenged students to convey the importance of finding and fixing leaks to conserve water and reduce water waste in Fremont, Newark and Union City homes, schools and businesses.
The District also awarded classroom scholarships to teachers for sponsoring winning student videos and to teachers sponsoring ten or more qualified video entries.
Distinguished representatives from government, television and environmental industries served as judges to select winning video entries from students in grades 6-12 in Middle and High School categories.
“The talent and creativity demonstrated by our students in tackling the issue of detecting and addressing leaks is truly inspiring. Their award-winning videos promote awareness about a water waste culprit and inspire action for a more sustainable future,” said ACWD Board President Jim Gunther.
First Prize Winner $500
Middle School: Eesha Rustagi and Aarush Sundararajan, Grade 8, Video: “Leaky Faucet – We Got It!” John M. Horner Middle School
High School Winner: Daniel Loy, Garde 10, Video: “Find and Fix Leaks: Save Water,” Circle of Independent Learning
Second Prize Winner $250
Middle School: Dhaanush Karthikeyan, Grade 7, Video: “How to Find and Fix Leaks,” Thornton Middle School
High School: Semi Jung, Gitasri Dintakurthi, Aditi Pangal and Joyce Yan, Grade 10, Video: “L.E.A.K.S.,” Mission San Jose High School
Third Prize Winner $100
Middle School: Aditya Madhavani, Grade 7, Video: “Finding and Fixing Leaks,” William Hopkins Middle School
High School: Roland Lee, Nolan Lee, Himank Gangwal, Nikhil Cidambi and Aarush Laddha, Grade 10, Video: “Don’t Let Leaks Drain You,” Mission San Jose High School
In addition, award-winning student entries received a free movie ticket and local movie theaters will show winning entries in advance of featured films beginning May 17.
For a complete list of winners, honorable mentions and recognized teachers, and to watch the winning videos about finding and fixing leaks, visit acwd.org/waterclips.
Wine Tasting on the Rails
Submitted by Niles Canyon Railway
There are still a few tickets left for Niles Canyon Railway’s June 2 “Wine Tasting on the Rails” train ride. Trains depart from Sunol station at 1 p.m. Riders will be treated to a two-hour train ride while tasting a variety of wines from the Boisset Collection of Wines with ambassador, Elizabeth J. Regan. We will have wines from wineries in Napa, Sonoma and several from around France. We will be serving a total of nine varietals. A complimentary charcuterie snack is also included in your fare.
For those who want to ride, but not partake in the wine tasting, we offer a “Designated Driver” ticket that includes the charcuterie snack and non-alcoholic beverages.
All guests aboard the wine train event, whether tasting or not, must be 21 years of age. ID is required at ticket window to pick-up your tickets to board.
Tickets options:
$75 for Wine Tasting – Charcuterie & Souvenir Niles Canyon Railway Logo Wine Glass.
$39 for Designated Driver – Charcuterie with non-alcoholic beverages included.
Wine Tasting on the Rails
Sunday, Jun 2
1 p.m.
Sunol Station
6 Kilkare Rd., Sunol
www.ncry.org/ride/wine-tasting-specials
Tickets: $75
New openings and June happenings in Downtown Hayward
By Nick Yoo, Assistant District Manager of the Downtown Hayward Improvement Association
Make this summer one for the books and head over to Downtown Hayward! Booming with new businesses and community events, the neighborhood will ensure you make the most of the season. Make sure you seize the chance to explore the latest additions to the scene and join in the festivities coming this June.
New Businesses
Downtown Hayward has seen the arrival of two new businesses: a Thai restaurant, and a gym. Khao Hom, a breakfast-brunch eatery, takes a refreshing and modern twist on traditional Thai cuisine. From their signature dish, the Khao Hom Waffle, to the savory Mango Sticky Rice, Khao Hom invites guests to explore their delicious offerings. Gonz9 is designed to optimize the performance of people of all ages and abilities through interval training, HIIT classes and strength training. Gustavo, the owner of Gonz9, will be offering personal training as well as small group classes.
A Look Ahead
In addition to new businesses, there are many exciting events on the horizon! Right around the corner is the return of the Annual Latin Jazz Festival, sponsored by the Downtown Hayward Improvement Association and taking place on Saturday, June 1 from 12 noon to 7 p.m. The streets of Downtown Hayward will be filled with the lively tunes of jazz music as local artists from around the Bay Area showcase their talent. The free festival will feature Latin food vendors, art and crafts, and above all, three stages of entertainment highlighting some of the Bay Area’s favorite Latin Jazz artists. This year’s lineup of musical talent includes Sentimiento Y Manana, Latin Rhythm Boyz, Mio Flores SalSazz Allstars, Mombotombo SF, Louis Carranza’s “All Star” Desgarga, and Louie Romero y Grupo Mazacote, with “Ricky Aguilar.” Hosted by Hayward native and devoted community member, Alfredo Rodriguez Jr., the Annual Latin Jazz Festival promises to have you movin’ and groovin’ all night long.
Juneteenth Hayward (www.juneteenthhayward.com) is set to unfold on Saturday, June 22 from 12 noon to 6 p.m. The gathering will showcase live music, family festivities, culinary delights, and more, all in tribute to the Black community. At the event, beloved children’s entertainer Meekah will make a special appearance offering fans a chance for a Meet and Greet. Join the community for this honorary celebration in Heritage Plaza and support local Black-owned businesses and connect with the community.
For the latest updates on Downtown Hayward Improvement Association, please visit visithaywardca.com and follow us on Instagram @DowntownHayward, and Facebook @DowntownHaywardCA.
EarthTalk®
From the Editors of E – The Environmental Magazine
Photo credit: Pexels.com
Dear EarthTalk: How are the world’s rhino populations faring these days?
The rhinoceros, famous for its impressive size and striking horns, is one of the biggest land mammals in the world. Once widespread, the species has now become a symbol of catastrophic population decline within conservation discourse. But with more media attention and therefore increased conservation efforts, the situation of rhino populations around the world might be looking up.
There are five different species of rhinos across Asia and Africa: Sumatran, Javan, Black, Greater one-horned and White rhino. Species count is varied, with numbers ranging between 34-47 (Sumatran rhino) and 16,803 (White rhino). Still, all species have significantly declined throughout the 20th century. In 1900, an estimated 500,000 rhinoceros existed. By 1970, this dropped to 70,000, by 2022 to 27,000. All five rhino species are now considered endangered and two have less than 100 individuals in the wild.
Declines are often human-caused. Poaching for rhino horn remains the greatest threat, since rhino horns are often falsely considered aphrodisiacs or luxury goods. According to Save the Rhino International, 9,415 African rhinos have died due to poaching in the last decade. Another threat to rhinoceros is habitat loss, occurring due to the conversion of land for human settlement, agriculture or logging. Rapid human population growth and urban expansion have led to over 17 countries losing their entire rhinoceros populations. A newer threat to rhino populations is climate change. According to Timothy Randhir from the University of Massachusetts, “Rhinos need really unique [climate] conditions.” Increased precipitation and longer monsoon periods in Asia as well as rising temperatures in Africa already negatively affect the survival chances of rhinos and will continue to do so in the future.
Recently, the number of rhino individuals has been rising across species. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) African Rhino Specialist Group, the global rhino population increased from 26,272 in 2021 to about 27,000 in 2022. Black and Greater one-horned rhinoceros numbers have been steadily increasing over the past two decades. Sub-species like the Southern White rhinoceros have shown an impressive recovery. In 1900, there were only 20 individuals left. Numbers have continuously been rising since, with now over 16,800 Southern White rhinos existing.
Improvements have not come about through a reduction in threats, but through improved protection. While there has been a marked decline in poaching from the 2010s, it is now on the rise again. Some 561 rhinos died due to poaching in 2022, more than in 2021 (501) and 2020 (503). Due to persistent threats, very few rhinos survive outside of national parks and reserves. Through conservation in protected sanctuaries, species like the Black rhino have increased by nearly five percent in only one year. But Michael Knight, chair of the IUCN rhino group, warns: “It is imperative to further consolidate and build on this positive development and not drop our guard.”
Some species, like the Javan and Sumatran rhino, remain in decline. The Northern White rhino has only two individuals remaining, and both are female.
CONTACTS:
IUCN SSC African Rhino Specialist Group, https://iucn.org/our-union/commissions/group/iucn-ssc-african-rhino-specialist-group
Save the Rhino International
https://www.savetherhino.org/.\
EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: qu******@ea*******.org.
History Matters
A feature courtesy of The Grateful American Book Prize
Showing our children that their past is a prelude to their future.
By Ed Lengel for David Bruce Smith’s Grateful American Book Prize
May 15 to June 15, 2024
Brown v. Board of Education
One of the most important legal decisions of the twentieth century took place seventy years ago. On May 17, 1954, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that school segregation was unconstitutional. The concept of “separate but equal” school had solidified in the wake of the 1896 Supreme Court decision, Plessy v. Ferguson. In the 1954 case Brown v. Board of education of Topeka, Kansas, however, Justice Earl Warren declared that segregation violated the 14th Amendment to the Constitution.
The ruling was controversial then and remains so. Some legal scholars believe that the Supreme Court had chosen to establish new laws on the basis of social rights, instead of doing its duty to follow established law and precedent. In any event, a follow-up ruling—unanimous like the first in May 1955—ordered states to begin desegregating schools “with all possible speed.” The court’s practice of what came to be called “judicial activism” would continue for decades.
A few years later–in September 1957–nine African American teenagers attempted to enter the segregated Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. White teenagers and parents, backed by the state National Guard, repeatedly blocked the children from entering. Finally, President Dwight D. Eisenhower brought the state National Guard under Federal authority and ordered them, with U.S. Army troops, to escort the Little Rock Nine into school. Desegregation had begun in earnest.
For more information about Brown v. Board of Education, the Grateful American Book Prize recommends Michael J. Klarman’s Brown v. Board of Education and the Civil Rights Movement.
D-Day
Eighty years ago, in–May 1944–most of Western Europe lay under the domination of Nazi Germany. American and British troops had cleared Axis forces out of North Africa in the winter of 1942-1943. In July 1943, the Allies captured Sicily, and then began moving northward through Italy. By the spring of 1944, the German forces had blocked the Allies south of Rome; In the east, meanwhile, Soviet forces stood poised to shatter the thin Axis lines and drive deep into Central Europe. All the while, Hitler’s Final Solution—the genocide of Europe’s Jews—was in full operation.
The cross-channel Allied invasion of France—known as Operation Neptune (everything up to the landings) and Operation Overlord (the landings themselves)—would decide the fate of western Europe. Because of the Allied deceptions–including the creation of a mythical “Ghost Army,”—Hitler thought the landings would take place at the English Channel’s narrowest point, the Pas de Calais. Instead, American, British, Canadian, and “Free French” forces would invade Normandy.
Paratroopers, including the American 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions, began landing just after midnight on June 6, 1944. The infantry came ashore at daybreak on five beaches: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword. At Omaha, the U.S. 29th and 1st Divisions took terrible losses, as immortalized in the movie Saving Private Ryan, but U.S. Army Rangers scaled the sheer cliffs at Pointe du Hoc against fierce German resistance. Eventually the landing beaches were secured at the cost of thousands of casualties, including 2,501 Americans killed in action. Their bravery and sacrifice ensured the freedom of milli
ons.
For more information about D-Day, the Grateful American Book Prize recommends John McManus’s The Dead and Those About to Die, D-Day: The Big Red One at Omaha Beach.
Ed Lengel is an author, a speaker, and a storyteller.
The 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. https://gratefulamericanbookprize.org/
U.S. manufacturers invested heavily in robotics in 2023, finds IFR
Total installations of industrial robots rose by 12% and reached 44,303 units in 2023, as U.S. manufacturers invested heavily in more automation, reported the International Federation of Robotics, or IFR, today. The automotive industry is still the No. 1 adopter, followed by the electrical and electronics sector, according to the IFR’s preliminary results.
“The United States has one of the most advanced manufacturing industries worldwide,” stated Marina Bill, president of the IFR. “The first IFR outlook on preliminary results shows again strong robotics demand across all major segments of U.S. manufacturing in 2023.”
U.S. automakers still lead
Sales in the automotive segment rose by 1%, with a record 14,678 robots installed in 2023, said the IFR. This comes after installations in 2022 skyrocketed by 47%, reaching 14,472 units, noted the Frankfurt, Germany-based organization.
The market share of car and component makers reached 33% of all industrial robot installations in the U.S. in 2023. The U.S. has the second-largest production volume of cars and light vehicles worldwide after China. “Automotive manufacturers currently invest in robotics mainly to drive the electric vehicle transition and respond to labor shortages,” Bill said.
Installations in the electrical and electronics industry rose by 37% to 5,120 units in 2023, said the IFR. This number almost reached the record pre-pandemic level of 5,284 units, seen in 2018.
The latest result represents a market share of 12% of all industrial robots installed in the U.S. manufacturing industry. Global installations reached record numbers in 2022, the IFR noted. It attributed recent demand for industrial robots among U.S. electronics makers by efforts to strengthen domestic supply chains and projects toward clean-energy transitions.
Installation counts in other U.S. industries exceeding the 3,000-unit mark included metal and machinery (4,123 units, +6%) and plastic and chemical products (3,213 units, +5%). They represent a market share of 9% and 7% of U.S. manufacturer robot installations in 2023, respectively, said the IFR.
Robot installation in Canada reached 4,616 units – up 43%. The automotive industry accounts for 55% of the country’s robot installations. Sales to the automotive sector rose by 99% with 2,549 units installed in 2023. This is an all-time high.
Robot installations in Mexico’s manufacturing industry remained almost unchanged, with 5,868 units in 2023. The country’s main adopter was the automotive industry, which accounted for 69% of the robot installations in 2023. The IFR said sales in Mexico reached 4,068 units (-0%) in 2023 – the third best result since the peak level of 4,805 units, in 2017.
The IFR plans to post the presentation on preliminary figures held by Bill during the IFR Executive Roundtable on May 8. The federation said it will release final results of the latest World Robotics data on September 24.
www.therobotreport.com
Social Security Matters
By Russell Gloor, National Social Security Advisor, AMAC Foundation
Ask Rusty – Future Retiree Worried About Social Security’s Future
Dear Rusty: I keep reading that the SSA will only be able to pay out 75% of benefits come 2033. If congress were to do nothing and this reduction in benefits occurred, would seniors already collecting benefits in 2033 have their benefits reduced or would it only be those who have not begun to collect have their future benefits reduced? I will be collecting my benefits no later than 2027 but my wife will not reach full retirement age until 2033 and we are looking for information on whether we need to adjust savings now to account for mine or my wife’s possible reduction in benefits. Signed: Worried Senior
Dear Worried Senior: If Congress does nothing to prevent Social Security’s reserves from depletion, Social Security – by law – will only be able to pay out benefits equal to income, which is estimated to be about 23% to 25% short of what will be needed to pay full benefits starting in 2033. That would mean everyone who is already receiving monthly Social Security benefits would get a payment 23% to 25% less than they were previously receiving. And without reform, new beneficiaries would get benefits similarly reduced.
The action needed to prevent those cuts from happening resides with Congress, and any program reform they enact would likely only affect those who are not yet collecting. Whether or how that would affect you and your wife as future SS beneficiaries depends on the scope of reform Congress will enact which, of course, is not yet known. That uncertainty, itself, is reason enough to bolster your savings for your future retirement.
The probability of Congress allowing the Trust Funds to be depleted, thus necessitating an across the board cut in everyone’s benefit is, in my opinion, slim (it would be political suicide). Congress already knows how to fix Social Security’s financial woes – they just currently lack the bipartisanship and political fortitude to do so. And it’s doubtful any Social Security reform will happen this election year – rather, the opposing sides will likely just sling accusations at each other in 2024. But rest assured that both sides of Congress are acutely aware that reform of the Social Security program is needed soon, and we are already seeing signs that progress on reform may be forthcoming (but not until after the 2024 elections).
Congress is notorious for waiting until the last possible moment to act, and I don’t suggest you alter your Social Security claiming strategy based on the unknown. But building a bigger nest egg for retirement is always a p
rudent goal. Also, calling your Congressional Representative to endorse needed Social Security reform which ensures your future benefits will not be cut would be a good move.
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.
Tri-City History A-Z in Photographs #5: Eateries
By Kelsey Camello, for the Washington Township Museum of Local History
Eateries (noun): a restaurant or other place where people can be served food.
Larry Medeiros in his restaurant on Mission Boulevard inside the Guadalupe Inn.
Niles Chamber of Commerce in front of the Florence Restaurant on Niles Boulevard
Mission Pine Restaurant – interior scene, in Mission San Jose.
Cloverdale Creamery (now home to Bogie’s Pet Store) night scene, in Centerville.
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.
Summer equals Strawberries
By Madhvika Singh
Although called berries, strawberries are actually a false fruit belonging to the rose family. They consist of many tiny individual fruits called achenes, embedded in a fleshy receptacle and surrounding a tiny seed. Strawberries are one of my favorites for the home garden for many reasons. They are versatile in where they can be planted, do not take up lot of space, and the contrasting colors of the leaves and the fruit are an attractive addition to the garden. They can be planted as a patch, or in hanging baskets, containers, or raised beds. And since they are perennials, they save time and effort by not needing frequent replanting.
When choosing varieties, decide if you want all your harvest at once, or spread out over months. But why pick one, if you have the space and the desire! Strawberries are essentially two types – short-day cultivars and day-neutral cultivars. Short day produce fruit when days are cool and short. Called June-bearers, they produce a large crop for about three weeks, whereas day-neutrals produce fruit over months.
Type also determines planting time. Short-day won’t flower and fruit properly if planted in spring when days are getting longer. Short-day planted in August yield a small crop in the fall and a larger crop the following spring, into summer. Day-neutral or everbearing may be planted in the fall. Check with your local garden centers and nurseries to see what’s available for your area.
Strawberries grow best in sandy, well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5, and need at least 8 hours of sunlight. A soil testing kit can reveal the pH. Plant strawberries in containers, planter boxes, or beds that are at least 12 inches deep. Prepare the area with nutrient rich soil and a slow-release fertilizer.
Strawberries can be planted from potted nursery plants, or as bare roots. When planting, make sure soil does not cover the crown portion of the plant. You may also use “daughter” plants. Original “mother” plants reproduce through sending off runners that root and make a new daughter plant. One can let runners establish if more plants are desired, as mother plants need to be replaced every three years. If not, runners can be snipped as they drain energy from the mother plant. I prefer not to let runners establish and try out new varieties every few years. (Some varieties like alpine strawberries generally do not produce runners.)
Since the tender strawberry fruit hangs low, it needs protection from bruising and contact with direct moisture (to prevent rot). Using drip irrigation, growing in a raised area, or protecting with mulch can help. Strawberry plants have shallow roots and require consistent moisture throughout the growing season. They prefer small applications of fertilizer to produce fruit continuously. Additional nitrogen-based fertilizer is needed if the plants look weak and leaves are light green. Water right after the fertilizer application to allow nutrients to reach the roots.
As much as I like to eat the fruit of my labor, I do get a lot of competition from the pests. Snails, slugs, earwigs, and birds all show up to the party! I use baits to control slugs and snails, and soy sauce and vegetable oil traps for earwigs. (Instructions for these traps can be found online.) Controlling weeds is also important. This helps reduce competition for nutrients, not to mention keeping our gardens tidy!
Strawberries taste best when they’ve had a chance to fully ripen on the plant. Gently pick ones that look bright and ripe by snipping them with the stem attached. Rinse under cool water and pat dry. While our household eats lots of fresh strawberries in salads and cereals, we do indulge in occasional treats. Here are some favorite recipes:
Strawberry spread
Fresh strawberries – One pound
Sugar – Half cup
Small apple – Grated
Wash fresh strawberries under cold water, remove greens, and chop into pieces. Sprinkle in two tablespoons of sugar and let rest for about 20 minuets for juices to release. Transfer berries and juices to a heavy-bottom three-quart pan. Add remaining sugar and the grated apple, and cook on a low to medium flame for about 10 minutes while frequently stirring and mashing berries to prevent sticking and burning. Skim off any foam. Turn up the heat as the mixture starts to bubble, and cook until it has thickened (about 15 minutes). To check if the spread is ready, put a small amount on a chilled plate and tilt. If the spread holds its shape, it’s ready. If not, cook for a bit longer, testing until you achieve a firm consistency.
Let the spread cool and store in the refrigerator in a glass jar. It’s ready to eat, but as it sits in the refrigerator, it thickens up some more. It can be stored this way for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for a month
for best flavor.
Chocolate covered strawberries
Strawberries – Half a pound
Chocolate chips – One cup
Wash and clean strawberries and let dry completely. Insert toothpicks into tops (stem ends). Line a tray with parchment paper. Melt chocolate chips in 15 second intervals in a microwave or in a double boiler, stirring occasionally until chips have melted. Holding the toothpick, dip two thirds of the strawberry into melted chocolate, giving a whirl to coat the strawberry. Allow excess to drip and place on the parchment paper. Leave strawberries at room temperature for a few minutes and in the fridge for fifteen. Enjoy!
Note: This article gives an overview of growing plants, sun and soil requirements, moisture needs etc. Plant health and growth will vary based on various factors. This article is intended for gardening and culinary inspiration only. Please consult your healthcare provider should you have any questions or concerns about adding any new foods or ingredients to your diet.
Homelessness in Hayward
Submitted by City of Hayward
Newly released findings of the 2024 count of people experiencing homeless in Alameda County show Hayward is sheltering a greater share of its homeless population—a continuation of a positive trend amid concerns that homelessness appears to be on the rise in the city.
According to Point in Time (PIT) Count estimates, which were arrived at based on a physical count carried out across the County on the morning of January 25, Hayward is sheltering 44 percent of its homeless population—up from 30 percent in 2022, 24 percent in 2019 and 21 percent in 2017.
While overall numbers of people experiencing homelessness are beyond any one city’s direct control, how cities respond is not. By that measure Hayward is making sustained progress moving people off the streets and out of encampments and into emergency and transitional shelter programs.
“We are concerned about and will get to the bottom of the overall increase in homelessness in Hayward as reflected in the 2024 PIT Count,” Mayor Mark Salinas said, referring to a PIT Count finding that the City’s homeless population increased by 114 individuals or 30 percent over the 2022 Count. “At the same time, Hayward can be very proud of how we are responding to this regional crisis.”
As Vice President of the Alameda County Mayors Conference and a member of its Homelessness Task Force, Mayor Salinas added that cities will continue working together to coordinate resources to help more people.
Progress in the sheltering of people experiencing homelessness in Hayward began in 2019 with the City’s declaration of a homelessness emergency and the opening of the Hayward housing Navigation Center in November of that year. Since opening its doors on November 18, 2019, the Navigation Center has moved 264, or 54 percent, of individuals served into permanent housing. And the Center is just the first of multiple responses that have been undertaken.
In 2021, the City launched HEART (Hayward Evaluation and Response Teams), an intradepartmental initiative of the Hayward Fire and Police Departments and Office of the City Manager to involve mental health clinicians and coordinated case management in calls for service for people experiencing mental and behavioral health episodes.
Also in 2021, First Presbyterian Church of Hayward and its South Hayward Parish location expanded services, originally offering 18 drop-in beds to unhoused individuals during instances of inclement weather in winter months to now offering 21 drop-in beds and operating year-round.
In May 2023, Depot Community Apartments, a contemporary new residence of 125 micro units with wrap around services at 2595 Depot Road began accepting applications from individuals and two-person households who were either experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless.
And in November 2023, the State of California announced the award of $9.6 million for a new initiative of the City of Hayward, and partners Union City and nonprofit Bay Area Community Services (BACS), to purchase and operate single-family homes for people experiencing homelessness.
To learn more about Hayward’s homelessness response, check out Let’s House Hayward! Strategic Plan to Reduce Homelessness on the City of Hayward website.
www.hayward-ca.gov
CNA applauds California Senate for removing medical debt from credit reports
Submitted by California Nurses Association
California Nurses Association (CNA) applauds the California Senate’s passage (31-8) of S.B. 1061, which would prohibit consumer reporting agencies from including medical debt on credit reports. The bill, authored by Sen. Monique Limón’s (D-Santa Barbara) and sponsored by CNA, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and a diverse coalition of organizations, would also prevent medical debt collectors from sharing medical debt information with credit reporting agencies.
“Our patients should not have to suffer by being reported to creditors due to medical debt,” said CNA President Cathy Kennedy, RN. “We deeply appreciate the California Senate for voting in favor of S.B. 1061. This is a major first step towards removing all medical debt from credit reports because we need a fair credit system that will not penalize patients when they get the care they need and deserve.”
Nurses have long witnessed patients delay care or forgo essential medical care because of medical debt. At least 1 in 5 (over 6 million) California adults have medical debt that would not be included in their credit reports because of this bill.
Medical debt has a deep impact on people’s lives:
- Californ
ians with medical debt are twice as likely to skip care due to costs compared to those without medical debt. - More than half of low-income Californians report that they postponed health care due to cost concerns.
- One in two low-income Californians have medical debt
Many patients who face damaging medical debt on their credit reports are uninsured or underinsured when they receive hospital or other care. Moreover, medical debt disproportionately impacts marginalized communities. Existing racial and socioeconomic health disparities are exacerbated when health care providers and medical debt collectors report unpaid medical bills to credit reporting agencies.
The legislation would also protect patients’ personal information by requiring that any medical debt collection contracts bar medical debt information from being shared with credit reporting agencies. To enforce the prohibition of medical debt on credit reports, that debt would be voided if the information is provided to a credit reporting agency.
The bill now moves to the California Assembly.
EBRPD Police Chief greets President Biden
Submitted By East Bay Regional Park District
On Friday, May 10, 2024, Police Chief Roberto Filice from East Bay Regional Park District Police Department was one of 10 Bay Area Police Chiefs selected to meet with President Joe Biden. Biden’s trip to California was his first since February, and Chief Filice said he was honored to accept the invitation.
“Those of us in law enforcement take our jobs very seriously. We love our communities and continually strive to reduce crime, save lives, and restore peace of mind and security to the people we serve. Anytime we have an opportunity to meet with politicians – including the President of the United States – to express the importance of public safety for those we serve, it is a good day.”
Chief Filice came to the East Bay Regional Park District Police Department in January this year, after being the police chief in Salinas since 2021. He has been hailed as a highly experienced, respected, and seasoned leader throughout his 25-year career in law enforcement.
Congratulations 2023 Officer of the Year!
Submitted by Union City Police Department
Officer Zakariya Ali was honored Thursday, May 9 as the 2023 Officer of the Year at a breakfast sponsored by the Optimist Club from Newark. Officer Ali was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the department.
Officer Ali is currently a Field Training Officer (FTO) and Crime Scene Investigator (CSI). He was selected to be trained as an Acting Sergeant and lead a shift for four days while all supervisors and management were away at a Team Building Workshop in March. This speaks highly to the degree of trust that the department has in him.
FTO Ali consistently strives to better those around him. He is thorough, detailed, and relentless in his work as a Field Training Officer. He teaches his recruits not just the how, but also the why behind the various topics, scenarios, and situations that arise on calls for service.
He has also taken on planning for the upcoming wave of new hires, coordinating the entire New Hire Orientation schedule. He is helping to shape the next wave of employees at the department through his continued work in the Field Training program.
Recognized as a mentor among his peers, he readily lends an ear and provides guidance to younger officers. He approaches each task with a sense of urgency and completes them with precision and efficiency. FTO Ali has gone above and beyond, completing numerous New Hire Orientation processes and tirelessly seeking opportunities to enhance the learning experience for new recruits. By identifying gaps between academy learning and real-world application, he has played a pivotal role in improving the department.
Despite his numerous achievements, he remains humble and grounded, placing honor above glory and demonstrating genuine care for the well-being of his fellow department members. His actions speak volumes about his character and his unwavering dedication to serving the community and upholding the values of the department.
FTO Ali truly embodies Chief Rinetti’s philosophy of “Service from the Heart” by living by the motto on a daily basis and allowing it to come through in his work product. An award, well- deserved!
Sideshow Crackdown
Submitted by Alameda County Sheriff’s Office
Over the weekend, the Regional Sideshow Enforcement Team (RESET) demonstrated its commitment to community safety. Comprised of the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, Hayward Police Department, California Highway Patrol, and San Leandro Police Department, RESET’s targeted enforcement is a testament to the power of collaboration. Each operation’s location is strategically chosen based on intelligence about pre-planned sideshows, racing events, or specific needs in that jurisdiction.
RESET’s vigilance and effectiveness were on full display as they swiftly responded to intelligence indicating a sideshow was about to erupt near the intersection of Mission Boulevard and Harder Road in Hayward. Their proactive and decisive action disrupted the sideshow before it could escalate and overtake the intersection. Some highlights:
- Traffic stops: 65
- Citations: 21
- Arrests: 6 misdemeanors/5 felonies
- Firearms: 2 (and high-capacity magazines)
- Vehicles towed: 10
Several dangers exist with illegal sideshows. Law enforcement continues to pursue new technological equipment that will assist in safely capturing fleeing suspects. With the assistance of UAVs, air support (ACSO, CHP, and OPD), and other resources, no one could elude capture.
Thank you, RESET, for your outstanding work toward achieving safer communities.
SLPD makes arrest in domestic violence and sexual assault case
Submitted by San Leandro Police Department
On April 19th, 2024, SLPD officers responded to the 100 block of Haas Avenue regarding a domestic violence incident. The victim was found to have suffered significant facial injuries at the hands of the suspect, her boyfriend. The victim also disclosed to officers that she was held against her will and sexually assaulted by the suspect.
Special Victims Unit (SVU) detectives took over the investigation and successfully acquired an arrest warrant for the suspect, a 31-year-old resident of Lathrop.
On May 15th, after an hours-long surveillance operation, the suspect was taken into custody by undercover SLPD detectives in Fremont. SVU detectives were able to obtain a full confession during an interview of the suspect.
Earlier today, the suspect was charged by the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office with felony domestic violence, false imprisonment, and forcible sexual batteries.
Domestic violence related crimes are often some of the most under-reported incidents. We strongly encourage anyone experiencing domestic violence, or anyone who knows of someone being victimized, to report it to your local police agency. For support and referrals for services, you may call the National Domestic Violence Line at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or call the 24-hour crisis line for domestic violence victims at (510) 757-5123 or 1-800-947-8301.
San Leandro Police make arrest in Safeway homicide
Submitted by San Leandro Police Department
On Tuesday, April 2, 2024, around 5:15 p.m., San Leandro Police responded to Safeway, located at 555 Bancroft Avenue, regarding a stabbing that just occurred. Arriving officers found the victim, 18-year-old Zion Gooden, inside the store suffering from stab wounds to his arm and chest. Life-saving measures were initiated, and Gooden was subsequently transported to a local trauma center. Despite the efforts of medical personnel, Gooden succumbed to his injuries later in the evening.
Investigators were able to piece together what transpired through reviews of surveillance footage and interviews of witnesses at the scene. It appeared that a dispute arose between Gooden and a suspect, a 13-year-old juvenile, over the juvenile’s interaction with an associate of Gooden’s. The confrontation escalated into a fight, during which Gooden was stabbed by the juvenile with a knife.
The suspect was eventually identified from surveillance footage.
On Thursday, May 16, the suspect was safely taken into custody at his school in a neighboring jurisdiction. A search warrant served at his residence yielded further evidence linking him to the crime.
The Alameda County District Attorney’s office has since filed criminal charges against the suspect.
While an arrest has been made, SLPD continues to urge anyone with additional information regarding this incident to contact us via any of the following methods: Detective Sergeant J. Vincent at (510) 577-3315, anonymous tip line at (510) 577-3278, or Text-to-Tip at 888777 (keyword: TipSLPolice).
Glads Runners Roar at State Meet
Submitted by Chabot College Athletics
Chabot runners delivered some huge efforts at the 3C2A Track and Field Championships at Saddleback College to complete the season.
The Glads had three All-Americans with top-four individual finishes and took seventh place in the men’s team standings.
Robert Stitts, a true freshman out of El Cerrito High, set the school record in the 200 meters with a runner-up finish in a blazing 20.84 seconds, after previously sharing the 200-school mark. Stitts also finished fifth in the 100. He won both sprints in the NorCal meet at American River in fast times.
Kyle Galinis delivered monster efforts in distance running, with a third in the 10K in a time of 30:48 and sixth in the 5K,14:53, obliterating his 5K personal best of 15:08.
Sophomore Santa Clara University commit, Daniel Trampe, made a big push for the lead with 1,600 to go in the 5,000 en route to a third-place finish, with a time of 14:35. Mt. SAC’s Mathew Donis, a two-time state champion, and Riversides ‘Athlete of the Meet’ Ernesto Ruiz finished one-two.
Freshman Shawn Carter, a basketball player, was 12th in the long jump.
Fremont Football League Gold Tournament
Submitted by Fatima Rocha
Fremont Foo
tball and Cheer League will be hosting their first annual Golf Tournament Fundraiser. The tournament will be held at the Callippe Golf Club in Pleasanton on Friday, June 14.
Registration will include 7:30 a.m. breakfast, a golf cart, beverages and snacks on the course and a post-game meal. There will also be a chance to win cash prizes for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners!
Register by Monday, June 10th at ff**********@gm***.com.
Fremont Football League Golf Fundraiser
Friday, June 14
7:30 a.m.
Callippe Golf Club
8500 Clubhouse Dr., Pleasanton
Registration: $195
Registration deadline: June, 10
www.fremontfootball.org
Girls Basketball Camp accepting registrations
Submitted by Darryl Reina
Join us for our Cougars Summer Basketball Camp! The camp is designed for 3rd – 8th grade girls at all skill levels to enjoy and improve. The week-long camp begins Monday, July 8 to Friday, July 12 at the Silliman Center Gymnasium in Newark.
Come enjoy our camp where you will learn basketball skills and have in fun during daily drills and activities. We can’t wait to see you there! To register visit, http://www.newark.org
For more information contact Camp Director and Newark Memorial Coach Darryl Reina at da*******@ao*.com.
Cougars Girls Summer Basketball Camp
9 a.m. – 12 noon
Monday, Jul 8 – Friday, Jul 12
Silliman Activity Center Gymnasium
6800 Mowry Ave., Newark
Newark residents- $125
Non-residents- $135
AAUW Scholarship Winners
Submitted by Jennifer Foster
Four hardworking Ohlone College students took home $7,000 in scholarships from the Fremont branch of the AAUW during the May 1 Scholarship Awards ceremony held at Ohlone.
Alexis Gonsalves, of Fremont, received our $4,000 scholarship and will be continuing her education in the fall at San Jose State. She plans to major in communication studies. She’s going to get her master’s degree and join the graduate teaching associate program, eventually becoming a college communication professor.
SkyLesha Marcel, also of Fremont, received our $1,500 scholarship and plans to attend UCLA this fall, studying cognitive science. She hopes to go into artificial intelligence.
Winners of $750 scholarships for continuing students at Ohlone are Alain Morel and Aunyae Campbell, both of Fremont.
Several AAUW members were at the ceremony to cheer for our Scholarship winners. Kathy Scrivani represented the committee that reviewed the applications of transferring students, and Becky Denevan represented the committee that analyzed the applications for continuing students.
Behind the scenes were the AAUW members who reviewed and analyzed the scholarship applications. Reviewing the applications for students who are transferring from Ohlone to a four-year school in the fall were Avis Kresin, Kathy Garfinkle, Kathy Scrivani, Karen Fong, Jennifer Foster, Nkechi Uzoegwu, Joyce Ruiz, Judy Young, and Janice Longo.
Reviewing applications for students continuing at Ohlone were Jeanne Delp, Becky Denevan, Carolyn Hedgecock, and Randy Fewel.
Honor Roll
Mount St. Mary’s University Dean’s List
- Alyssa Alexander of Fremont
SNHU Winter 2023 Dean’s List
- Sean O’Neill of Hayward
- Azja Walker of Hayward
- Denean Jackson of Hayward
- Luz Fuentes of Hayward
- Brejonne Clinton of Fremont
- Ryan Santos of Milpitas
- Stella Hernandez of Milpitas
Trine University 2024 Gradates
- Kenneth Weng Keat Chong of Milpitas
- Jiaze Li of Milpitas
- Jiaxi Liu of Newark
- Yuan Sun of Milpitas
Angelo State University 2024 Graduates
- Jeffrey Rovner of Hayward
Utah Tech University 2024 Dean’s List
- Jenna McDonnell of Newark
Chadron State College 2024 Dean’s List
- Melvin Lipsey of Hayward
Newark Memorial students honored by City Council
By April Ramos
Newark Memorial High School students were recognized by the Newark City Council for their great achievements throughout the 2023-2024 school year. Before the commendations Mayor Hannon noted, “It’s our responsibility to recognize these students when we have the opportunity to do so.”
Joy Lee, a junior from Newark Memorial High School, was given a commendation for her services as a part of the Newark Unified School District Board of Education and her contributions her school and community, including her leadership in multiple school clubs and team, as well as organizing a shoe drive where she collected over 120 pairs of shoes for Soles4Souls.
Newark Memorial Rocketry Club was also
honored by Newark City Council. The club is made up of two teams that participated in two different programs, NASA Student Launch Initiative and The American Rocketry Challenge. One team competed in The American Rocketry Challenge in Washington, D.C. where the they placed 73rd in the country among hundreds of teams. The second team of students participated in the NASA Student Launch Initiative in Huntsville, Alabama, home of NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center.
Ohlone College Celebrates Bright Futures as Renée Diop Embarks on Next Chapter
Submitted by Celina Barrios
Ohlone College proudly announces Renée Diop, a distinguished student leader, as one of its newest alumnae. Renée’s journey at Ohlone College exemplifies the transformative power of education, dedication, and community engagement.
Renée’s path to Ohlone College was marked by a commitment to her passion for political science. Originally a transfer student from CSU Long Beach, Renée chose Ohlone College to pursue her academic and professional aspirations in a more intimate and supportive environment.
Reflecting on her connection to Ohlone College, Renée expressed gratitude for the enriching experiences and close-knit community she found. “Ohlone College was a surprising reward, and I see it as a blessing to be able to attend this school,” she shared. Renée’s involvement in campus life, including serving as a founding member of the Ohlone Politics Club and participating in the Associated Students of Ohlone College, further enriched her collegiate experience.
Inspired by the events of 2020, including the Black Lives Matter movement and the global pandemic, Renée discovered her calling in political science. “Now, I realize that the world isn’t as doomed as I thought it was in high school, and that’s why I hope to continue changing it in my future,” she stated.
As Renée prepares to embark on the next phase of her academic journey, she plans to transfer to either UC Berkeley or Howard University to pursue her bachelor’s degree. She also looks forward to her internship this summer under the U.S. Department of State at the Office of the Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy.
Her time at Ohlone College has equipped her with the skills and determination needed to thrive in a competitive environment, setting the stage for future success in the field of politics.
Renée’s impact on the Ohlone College community has been profound, marked by her intentional leadership and dedication to civic engagement. From spearheading Civic Engagement Workshops to receiving recognition as the most Outstanding Student in Political Science, Renée’s contributions have left an indelible mark on campus.
Looking ahead, Renée remains committed to empowering future leaders and advocating for women in male-dominated industries. “Be prepared to be alone,” she advises aspiring women leaders, emphasizing the importance of resilience and self-advocacy.
As Renée prepares to graduate from Ohlone College, she leaves behind a legacy of inspiration and empowerment. Her message to future alumnae echoes the transformative power of seizing opportunities and embracing the supportive community at Ohlone College.
“Ohlone College is a beautiful school, but like any, it is what you make of it,” Renée remarked. “I hope to hold onto this mindset for when I transfer to university, just as I will hold onto the many relationships I formed here.”
Renée Diop’s journey serves as a testament to the bright futures awaiting Ohlone College graduates as they embark on their next chapter. Join us in celebrating Renée and the Class of 2024 at the May Commencement on Friday, May 17, 2024.
For more information about Ohlone College, please visit www.ohlone.edu [or link to alumni webpage or directly to commencement page].
California advances legislation cracking down on stolen goods resellers and auto theft
By Trân Nguyễn, Associated Press
The California Senate approved a bipartisan package of 15 bills Wednesday that would increase penalties for organized crime rings, expand drug court programs and close a legal loophole to make it easier to prosecute auto thefts.
One proposal would require large online marketplaces — like eBay and Amazon — to verify the identities of sellers who make at least $5,000 profit in a year, an attempt to shut down an easy way to sell stolen goods.
“This is not a game,” said Senate President Mike McGuire, a Democrat who represents the North Coast, adding that he hopes to get the bills to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s desk within weeks. “We are working together for safer California, putting aside politics and making sure we do right for our communities.”
It normally takes months for lawmakers to deliver bills to the governor in California, but the commitment to quick actions is driven by a new get-tough-on-crime strategy in an election year that seeks to address the growing fears of voters while preserving progressive policies designed to keep people out of prison.
Large-scale thefts, in which groups of people brazenly rush into stores and take goods in plain sight, have reached a crisis level in the state, though the California Retailers Association said it’s challenging to quantify the issue because many stores don’t share their data.
The Bay Area and Los Angeles saw a steady increase in shoplifting between 2021 and 2022, according to a study of the latest crime data by the Public Policy Institute of California. Across the state, shoplifting rates rose during the same period but were still lower than the pre-pandemic levels in 2019, while commercial burglaries and robberies have become more prevalent in urban counties, according to the study.
Assembly lawmakers also advanced several other retail theft measures Wednesday, including a bill authored by Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas taking aim at professional theft rings. It would expand la
w enforcement’s authority to combine the value of goods stolen from different victims to impose harsher penalties and arrest people for shoplifting using video footage or witness statements. The measure also would create a new crime for those who sell or return stolen goods and mandate online sellers to maintain records proving the merchandise wasn’t stolen and require some retail businesses to report stolen goods data.
Lawmakers also passed proposals that would crack down on cargo thefts, restore the district attorney’s authority to go after thieves and resellers who operate beyond their jurisdictions and allow retailers to obtain restraining orders against convicted shoplifters.
All the bills now head to the second chamber before they could reach Newsom’s desk in June.
The advancement of a slew of measures further cements Democratic lawmakers’ rejection to growing calls to roll back progressive policies like Proposition 47, a ballot measure approved by 60% of state voters in 2014 that reduced penalties for certain crimes, including thefts of items valued at under $950 and drug possession offenses, from felonies to misdemeanors.
Money saved from having fewer people in prison, which totals to $113 million this fiscal year, has gone to local programs to fight recidivism with much success, state officials and advocates said. But the proposition has made it harder to prosecute shoplifters and enabled brazen crime rings, law enforcement officials said. An effort to reform the measure failed in 2020.
As major national stores and local businesses in California say they continue to face rampant theft, a growing number of law enforcement officials and district attorneys, along with Republican and moderate Democratic lawmakers, say California needs to consider all options, including rolling back the measure. The coalition backing the initiative last month submitted more than 900,000 signatures to put it on the November ballot. The signatures are being verified.
Over $450K recovered for workers of California mushroom farms that were sites of fatal shootings
Associated Press
The owners of two Northern California mushroom farms where a farmworker killed seven people in back-to-back shootings last year will pay more than $450,000 in back wages and damages to 62 workers, the Labor Department announced Monday.
The owners of California Terra Gardens and Concord Farms in Half Moon Bay will also pay $70,000 in civil penalties for illegally deducting money from the workers’ pay for housing them in cramped cargo containers, garages, dilapidated trailers and a moldy greenhouse infested with insects and surrounded by trash, the department said in a statement.
Chunli Zhao, who worked at California Terra Gardens and had worked at Concord Farms, was charged with seven counts of murder and one count of attempted murder in the Jan. 23, 2023, shootings that stunned the small coastal community about 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of San Francisco. He has pleaded not guilty.
Authorities said Zhao opened fire at California Terra Garden, killing four co-workers and wounding another one. They said he then drove about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) to Concord Farms, a mushroom farm he was fired from in 2015, and shot to death three workers.
California Terra Gardens, Inc.’s owners, Xianmin Guan and his wife, Liming Zhu, illegally deducted money from workers’ pay for substandard housing, federal officials said. Federal investigators discovered 39 workers housed in cramped cargo containers, garages and dilapidated trailers furnished with filthy mattresses, the department said.
At Concord Farms, owner Grace Tung housed workers in moldy, makeshift rooms inside a greenhouse infested with insects, federal officials said.
Emails from The Associated Press seeking comment from the farms’ owners were not immediately answered Monday.
“Our investigators found workers at California Terra Gardens and Concord Farms housed in sickening conditions, forced to sleep near garbage and with insects all around,” said Wage and Hour Division Assistant District Director Alberto Raymond in San Francisco.
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
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
Tuesdays
LEGO® Time
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Use your imagination and engineering skills to create your own LEGO® designs.
Centerville library
3801 Nico
let 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
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 admission fee applies.
Ardenwood Farms
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
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
Thursday, April 18 – June 8
Image Central Spring Exhibition
Lower Gallery: Mon 5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Tues & Thur 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Upper Gallery: Mon – Fri 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Annual Spring Exhibition at the ImageCentral Gallery (formerly PhotoCentral) has bloomed once again. This exhibition showcases work from over 20+ artist from many walks of life! An eclectic group show with amazing images to match. Vote for your favorite image at the reception and help crown the People’s Choice Awards! Celebrate this fun extravaganza with us, take in the imagery, meet the artist’s, make memories, and acquire some incredible art! The event is free and the public is invited.
Image Central Gallery
1099 E St., Hayward
(510) 881-6721
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.
Thursdays
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, June 13 – August 3
54th Annual Textile Exhibition
Olive Hyde
123 Washington Blvd., Fremont
(510) 791-4357
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.
Saturday, April 4 – Saturday, June 4
Sun Gallery Climate Justice Exhibit
Thurs, Fri, Sun: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Local artist submissions with the theme “Climate Justice: World Peace & Security.”
Sun Gallery
1015 E. St., Hayward
(510) 581-4050
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
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
Sundays
Practice Your English: Group Conversation for Adults
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Improve your conversation skills by chatting with other people about everyday topics in a friendly, welcoming group
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
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
Tuesday, May 28
Fratello Marionettes: Carnival of Animals
11:00 am – 11:45 am
High energy antics and amazing magic from bilingual English/Spanish magician Zany Zoe! Free program. No registration required. Program will take place outdoors, weather permitting. All ages.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City
(510) 745-1464
Thursday, May 30 – June 2
“Chicago” Musical
7 p.m.
Sat/Sun: 2 p.m.
Plethos Productions, in collaboration with Chabot College, is proud to present the electrifying Broadway musical, Chicago, for a limited engagement. This co-production promises to captivate audiences with its sultry jazz, classic Fosse choreography, gripping storyline, big laughs and even bigger voices.
Stage One at Chabot College
25555 Hesperian Boulevard, Hayward
Tickets available at plethos.org
Saturday, June 1
Pride Celebration
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Youth and their families are invited to join us to celebrate Pride at the Castro Valley Library. We’ll start by walking along our new StoryWalk featuring JUST.LIKE.YOU. with the author, Meredith Steiner, followed by a storytime and fabulous dance party. Wear your dancing shoes!
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge, Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Saturday, June 1
Hayward Latin Jazz Festival
12:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Music lovers are invited to enjoy vibrant music, delicious food, and diverse Latin culture at the Hayward Latin Jazz Festival. There will be three stages hosting a variety of acts, including Sentimiento y Manan, Mio Flores’ Salsazz Allstars, Momotombo SF, Latin Rhythm Boyz, Louis Carranza’s “All Star” Descarga, and Louie Romero y Grupo Mazacote, with Ricky Aguilar.
B St. and Main St., Hayward
Saturday, June 1
Newark Symphonic Winds
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
newarksymphonic.org
Newark Memorial High School Theatre
39375 Cedar Blvd., Newark
(510) 552-7186
Saturday, June 1
San Leandro’s Cherry Festival
10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Featuring local vendors, craft beer, great food and Bay Areas party bands
Historic Downtown San Leandro
- Estudillo Ave
Saturday, June 1
Zany Zoe Magic Show
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Enjoy a family-friendly, comedic magic show with magician Zany Zoe. If weather permits, this program will be held outside. No registration is required to attend.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City
(510) 745-1464
Saturday, June 1
San Francisco Bay University Community Event
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Join us for an Exciting Day! Live DJ, Family-Friendly activities, opportunities using arts-based dialogue for the Innovation Center at SFBU
161 Mission Falls Lane, Fremont
Sunday, June 2
Butterfly and Bird Festival
10:00 am – 3:00pm
Join us at our annual celebration to connect with parks, people, and pollinators and mark the Park District’s 90th anniversary. Enjoy garden tours, family-friendly activities, special presentations, music, and more! This community event aims to support pollinators’ health and increase the number of species of butterflies, birds, and local pollinators across our Bay area landscapes. All ages. Parent participation required. Parking fees apply where charged. Wheelchair accessible. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required.
(510) 544-3220
Coyote Hills Regional Park
8000 Paterson Rd., Fremont
Sunday, June 2
Corpus Christi Parish Festival
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Entertainment karaoke and talent show line dancing lesson. Garden store beverage garden, fire truck, tacos/tortas/chicken adobo/ linguica /aguas frescas. Raffle, cash prizes $500, $250, $100
Corpus Christi Procession to Niles Plaza.
Historic Niles District
27891 2nd Street, Fremont
Sunday, June 2
50th Anniversary – Afro American Cultural and Historical Society
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
The anniversary celebration will feature music by the Oaktown Jazz Workshop at 1:30 pm and again at 3:00 pm in the library plaza. Co-founded in 1974 by Herman and Jean Ficklin and other community members, the society organizes these activities every year:
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Celebration – 2nd Sunday in January
Black History Month Celebration in February
College scholarships for local African American youth
Kwanzaa celebration in December
The library storytime room is named for Jean Ficklin to honor her for her role as Newark’s first African American teacher.
Newark Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Monday, June 3
Let’s Learn Mandarin
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
An interactive event to learn basic Mandarin conversational skills through fun Chinese cultural activities. In this 8-week program, participants will enjoy learning Mandarin through food, name seal carving, singing, Chinese calligraphy, Mahjong, Chinese craft and much more!
Fremont Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Tuesday, June 4
Nature to you with East Bay Regional Parks
10:45 am – 11:45 am
Join East Bay Regional Park District Naturalists as we bring Nature to YOU at the library. We’ll learn about the animals that can be found in the parks and in your neighborhood, and even get to meet a few! All ages! Drop in, no registration is required.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City
(510) 745-1464
Friday, June 7
Family caregiver retreat
9:30 am – 3:30 pm
City of Fremont, Family Caregiver Support program is inviting you to join us for a free, one-day retreat designed especially for you, the Family Caregiver. Enjoy a visit to Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose. Enjoy a complimentary breakfast and lunch, educational presentations, a therapeutic group activity, and a chance to share your experiences with fellow caregivers.
Pre-registration is required, and space is limited. Register by June 4, 2023. We cannot accommodate walk-in & same-day registrations. Register online, email or phone. For special accommodations, please register three weeks in advance.
Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose
43326 Mission Circle, Fremont
(510) 574-2035
Friday, June 7
Resource Fair
3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
23 social service agencies will celebrate its 25th anniversary. There will be prizes and giveaways, free health screenings, kids’ activities, a bounce house, and more.
39915 Liberty St., Fremont
Saturday, June 8
Sterling Bubbles
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
A sensory experience with Sterling Johnson, the Bubblesmith, and his wonderful world of bubbles at the library. This special program will be enjoyable for all ages. Space is limited. Free tickets are available on a first come, first serve basis. Tickets will be distributed outside in the breezeway to the right of the main entrance, starting at 12:45pm.
Fremont Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Saturday, June 8
Kalimba King!
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Musician and teacher Carl Winters, aka The Kalimba King, will perform songs on the kalimba (also known as an African thumb piano). He will showcase the instrument’s diverse range with jazz, pop, gospel, & rhythm and blues. You’ll get to learn about the history of the kalimba and its significance to African culture. Participants will also get a chance to be hands-on and play one too! Coloring pages will be provided and instructions on how to make your own kalimba at home! This program is designed for kids ages 6 and up. Register to receive an email event reminder.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
Saturday, June 8 and Sunday, June 9
Mission Days Festival 227 Anniversary
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Holly Mass, concert, international food booths, fabulous dance troupes, monkey show. We’re celebrating 227 years of continuously living in mission of the Church by sharing the good news of Jesus Christ through the generations.
(510) 657-1797
Sunday, June 9
Music at Garin
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Bring your musical instruments to the Red Barn at Garin for some whimsical old-time feel and pleasant tunes to learn and play along to. Please bring your string instruments. 10+yrs. Parent participation required. Parking fees apply where charged. Wheelchair accessible. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required.
(510) 544-3220
Garin Regional Park
1320 Garin Ave., Hayward
Sunday, June 9
Chokhi Dhani (Rajasthan Indian Cultural Fair) 2024
10:00 am 6:00 pm
India Community Center
525 Los Coches St., Milpitas
(408) 934-1130
Thursday, June 13
Traditional Korean Games
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Join us with artist and educator Danna Kim. We will be learning to make and play with ddakji, jegichagi, and gonggi – games analogous to POGs, hackey sack, and jacks. Supplies are limited. First come first served. Registration is not required for this event.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
Saturday, June 15
Annual Father’s Day Slumber with the Stars
6:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Spend this Father’s Day with dad on this unique, out-of-this-world camping experience at Chabot. Your sleepover includes hands-on activities, exclusive after-hours time in the exhibits, Planetarium shows and telescope viewing amidst the backdrop of the redwood forest. Enjoy hot chocolate while gazing at the stars, then camp outside or in one of our exclusive indoor exhibitions. Dinner and breakfast are included with dairy free and vegetarian options. All minors must be accompanied by a ticketed adult at a ratio of 5-1.
Chabot Space & Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
$110 Adults/Youth
Saturday, June 15
Fremont Pride Fair
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Celebrating and supporting our LGBT/QIA + community. Family-friendly event. Featuring live performances, food, and resource tables from organizations across the Bay Area. Resource booths, informative panels, music, games and food trucks
Fremont Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
Saturday, June 15
Fremont Bank Community Block Party
11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Special Promos, Giveaways, Raffle, DJ, Food Trucks, Beer Garden, Carnival Games, and more…
39150 Fremont Blvd., Fremont
Wednesday, June 19
Juneteenth
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Live entertainment, special performances, food and free giveaways, fun games, cultural exhibitions by Afro American Cultural and Historical Society
Silliman Center
6800 Mowry Ave., Newark
Sunday, June 23
Tchaikovsky Gold
3:00 pm
The music of Tchaikovsky has sparked the imagination of the world. From the dramatic 1812 Overture to the beloved Nutcracker, his music always touches the heart. For this concert we’re presenting two of his most famous pieces alongside International Van Cliburn Piano Competition gold medalist, Jon Nakamatsu. Heralded as the “pianist’s pianist,” Jon’s touch on the keyboard is soph
isticated and masterful, and he’ll perform the most famous piano concerto ever written. Jung-Ho and the Bay Philharmonic will share their passion for Tchaikovsky’s ultra dramatic 4th Symphony, his musical biography of a hero overcoming fate to triumph with hope and victory.
Chabot College Performing Arts Center
25555 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
Wednesday, June 26
Pygmy Goats with 4-H
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Fun presentation all about animals. Learn how to care for them, good hygiene, and all the opportunities Alameda County 4-H provides. After the presentation there will be an opportunity to meet and pet a real pygmy goat! This presentation is appropriate for children ages five and up.
Space is limited. Free tickets are available on a first come, first serve basis. Tickets will be distributed outside in the breezeway to the right of the main entrance, starting at 12:45pm.
Fremont Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Wednesday, June 26
Bri Crabtree & Silly Circus Show
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Family-friendly circus show from award-winning performer, Bri Crabtree! Laugh along to this comedic show, marvel at the magic tricks, and enjoy some circus performances.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Vally
(510) 667-7900
Saturday, June 29
Bohème Out of the Box
1 p.m. – Bohème Out of the Box
4:30 p.m. – Out of the Box: Encore Concert
Kennedy Park Amphitheater
1333 Decoto Rd., Union City
(510) 675-5445
www.sfopera.com/box
www.unioncity.org/589/Arts-Culture-Studio-11
Sunday, June 30
Indigo Dyeing
1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
We will use clothespins and rubber bands to create patterns on cotton fabric. Indigo is a very magical and special dyeing process. This workshop will be messy and dye may permanently stain clothes and temporarily stain skin. Please wear old clothes that you don’t care about! All materials will be provided.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
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