Celebrate 4th of July!

This upcoming Fourth of July, there are a variety of outdoor and indoor events around the Bay Area.

Although fireworks (even the “safe and sane” variety) are illegal in most cities, you can watch a fireworks show at the Alameda County Fair on July 1. Milpitas will also have a concert and fireworks show on July 4.

In Fremont, the traditional Fourth of July parade is back, this time followed by an afterparty at the downtown event center. Join food trucks, live music, and community nonprofit booths.

The Porch Parade continues with the opportunity to share patriotic decorative talent in Fremont. The website has a signup link and an interactive map with decorated porches, yards or balconies to be viewed at your leisure.www.fremont4th.org/porch-parade

Meet this year’s Grand Marshals:

Sal Castaneda – GRAND MARSHAL

Sal Castaneda is an American Emmy Award-winning journalist, anchor and reporter who serves as the traffic reporter and anchor, for Fox television affiliate KTVU Channel 2 in San Francisco Bay Area since 1999. In January 2015, he began a new gig as a co-host on “The Nine,” a fun and entertaining news show put on by KTVU. Castaneda is also a general assignment news reporter for noon and evening newscasts.

Fremont Family Resource Center – COMMUNITY GRAND MARSHAL

Founded in 1999, Fremont Family Resource Center (FRC) combines the efforts of more than 20 State, County, City and Non-Profit social service organizations working to build a vibrant Tri-City community with strong, healthy individuals, families and children. An unexpected personal crisis can hit anyone, anytime and trigger a cascade of needs. Services and education at the FRC enable families and individuals to regain control of their own futures.

Local Independence Day Events:

Fireworks Spectacular

Friday, July 1

9:30 p.m.

Alameda County Fairgrounds

Magical light show with drones; best view from Stella Artois Grandstand

Gates 8 & 12 off Valley Ave., Pleasanton

Included with Fair admission

Home

$18 adults, $15 seniors/students

$15 parking

Independence Day Celebration at Meek Park

Saturday, July 2

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Get a peek inside this local landmark and learn more about Meek Family history. Enjoy historic games and crafts, patriotic activities, and local community booths. Grab a hot dog and stay for the music of the Blues Bottle Band.

https://www.haywardareahistory.org/

Alameda County Firefighters Pancake Breakfast

Monday, July 4

8 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Classic cars club, magician and more

Alameda County Fire Station 27

39039 Cherry St., Newark

patch.com

Fremont 4th of July Parade

Monday, July 4

10 a.m. Parade

Starts at Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

Ends at City Hall

3300 Capitol Ave., Fremont

11:30 a.m. After Party

Downtown Event Center Plaza

3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont

www.fremont4th.org

Celebrating Independence Day the Old Fashioned Way

Monday, July 4

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Music games, contests, races

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org/parks/ardenwood

$10 adults, $8 seniors, $5 children

Waving the Red, White and Blue Pool Party

Monday, July 4

12 noon – 3 p.m.

Milpitas Sports Center

1325 E. Calaveras Blvd., Milpitas

www.milpitas.gov

Red, White & BOOM! Concert and Fireworks

Monday, July 4

6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Food trucks, kids’ area, fireworks, climbing wall, live music by Left University

Milpitas Sports Center

1325 E. Calaveras Blvd., Milpitas

www.milpitas.gov.July4th

Eternity Band Concert

Tuesday, July 5

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Warm Springs Age Well Center

47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont

www.eternityband.org

Inaugural 4th of July Parade After-Party

Submitted by Tina Fernandez Steckler

Tri-City Nonprofit Coalition (TCNPC) will host its inaugural Fremont 4th of July Parade After-Party Monday, July 4, at City of Fremont’s Downtown Event Center.

Join TCNPC and local nonprofits immediately following the parade at 3500 Capitol Avenue in Fremont. You’ll be welcomed by local nonprofits and can explore and enjoy information booths, games, giveaways, music, family-friendly activities, and live performances.

Numerous nonprofit organizations will be represented, including Fremont Education Foundation, HERS Breast Cancer Foundation, SAVE (Safe Alternatives to Violent Environments), Brady/United Against Gun Violence, Rcoz, Music for Minors II, League of Women Voters, Room Redux, and Citizens for a Better Community. Guests may purchase food and drink from Food Truck Mafia vendors and enjoy music provided by DJ Leonard Ybarra of Music Plus Events. Also on tap will be entertainment by Starstruck Theater and Ohlone College Theater Arts performers.

This free event is a wonderful opportunity to learn about local nonprofit events, volunteer needs, and other news, and will be a great way to socialize safely outdoors. TCNPC wishes to thank Presenting Sponsor Supervisor David Haubert (Alameda County District 1) and Community Sponsors Citizens for a Better Community, Fremont Chamber of Commerce, and Tri-City Voice.

For more information, visit https://tcnpc.org/4th-of-july-parade-after-party/ or check the 4th of July box in the paper.

4th of July Parade After-Party

Monday, Jul 4

11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Downtown Event Center

3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont.

https://tcnpc.org/4th-of-july-parade-after-party/

Reading between the lines of Banter Bookshop

By Stephanie Gertsch

“I’d always wished someone would open up a bookstore.”

Portentous words. Ones that could form the first line in a novel about a plucky protagonist facing the hurdles of small business ownership only to accidentally uncover a centuries-old conspiracy with the help of the bakery owner next door.

In the case of longtime Fremont resident Amy Davis, it led to the opening of Banter Bookshop. She recalls, “I found myself driving to other cities to go to independent small bookstores, and I really was hoping that Fremont would have one. After lots of thought and contemplation over the years…I decided to go for it.”

Davis is a Bay Area native who grew up in Hercules. She first moved to Fremont following her college graduation in 1998. She and her husband, Paul Davis, found Fremont to be an enjoyable and convenient location to reside while they took turns attending law school in San Francisco. After stepping back from practicing while her daughters were young, she considered whether to return to law or branch out into small business ownership. “At one point during the pandemic I decided that I would always feel regret if I didn’t pursue this dream,” she says.

Davis worked with bookstore training group Paz & Associates, which provides manuals, workshops, and other resources for prospective owners. “Actually, there are quite a few independent bookstore owners across the country that are former lawyers,” she shares, “[where] people have decided to use their law degree in a different way.”

She als
o scouted for where to put her brick-and-mortar store. “I have endless photos on my phone of various spots around town.” During the permitting process, Davis worked with Fremont’s economic development department, especially Donovan Lazaro and Julia Vidad. “It feels like so many things came together to be able to have this space,” Davis says.

But why “Banter?” “I like to talk with people,” Davis explains. “I like the alliteration. It’s important that people love to read and are reading, but I think it’s also important to talk about what you’re reading and share your opinions. One person may love a book, while somebody else didn’t share that enthusiasm, and they can talk about it in a friendly fun way. I thought the word banter kind of encapsulated that.”

Many more individuals helped bring the shop into existence, including architects, interior designers, a contractor, and electrician. Davis tried to hire as many local people as possible. Now the cast includes a staff of about 12 part time workers. Says Davis, “Ever since I announced the store was coming, people have been emailing me and reaching out.” The bookshop started gaining fans long before doors opened. “I’m thrilled by the enthusiasm we’ve had on social media and people walking by.”

There’s something about a physical store. Davis explains, “It becomes more of an event and a shared experience. Which goes back to the name of the store…While you’re actually reading it’s a solitary activity, but there is connection outside of that that you can share with someone else talking about a book or being in the store.” Over upcoming months, Davis hopes to host readings, book clubs and other literary events to further the community feel.

However, this isn’t to say the shop is tech-phobic. Currently, Banter Bookshop has a page on Bookshop.org, a resource that helps indie bookstores sell online, as well as one on Libro.fm for audiobooks. Both pages can be found on their new website Banterbookshop.com. “You can look up a title and it will say ‘in store’ or ‘available to order’ and we’ll be able to get the book in for you. People can choose to either ship it to their house [through Bookshop.org] or pick it up here in the store.”

Obviously, there’s only so many paper and ink books that can fit into the space. The selection ranges across kidlit and YA, classics and new releases, best sellers and graphic novels. Davis explains, “I did partner with some consultants who helped me with the initial list of the store. And then I went through and helped curate those lists, keeping favorites in mind.” New York Times and Bay Area bestseller lists, book podcasts, friend recommendations also produced ideas, but in the end, “What will be the key is what is ending up selling here in the store.”

“Once we get going, we’ll see what our community is interested in, who’s gravitating to the store…There’s actually a lot of technology and analytics that are available through our point of sale system that help with that. There’s a lot of data coming at us!” With orders continually going out and new releases becoming available, the store will always have something new, even if it can’t stock everything at once.

Open until 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, the bookshop invites evening browsing, particularly with Fremont Street Eats a block away. (Food trucks will gather at the downtown plaza each Friday until October.) At the June 21 ribbon cutting, booklovers swarmed among the shelves like bees sampling honey.

“I still miss going to a bookstore, browsing, seeing what’s on the shelves and picking up a physical book,” says Davis. “There’s definitely a place for the Kindle and digital books. But there are enough people that will help sustain a bookstore here in our city that still desire holding a real book.”

“[I’m] hoping that the store becomes part of people’s family traditions,” she concludes. “You know, ‘We go to the bookstore once a month.’ Or ‘We decided we’re going to buy a book as a gift every time we go to a birthday party.’ And there’s a convenient close place to go.”

Banter Bookshop

Mon – Thurs: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Fri – Sat: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Sun: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

3768 Capitol Ave., Ste F., Fremont

(510) 565-1004

banterbookshop.com

Instagram: @banterbookshop

News and notes from around the world

Submitted by The Association of Mature American Citizens

Baby jumpers

Each year in June, moms in the Spanish village of Castrillo de Murcia assemble in the town square and carefully place their newborn babies on strategically placed mattresses for the annual baby jumping festival known as El Salto del Colacho. A cadre of pious locals dressed in black chase El Colacho — the devil himself — forcing him to run and jump over the babies in a ceremony that is said to cleanse the infants, providing them with protection from disease and bad luck, according to the Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC). The festival, which dates back to 1620, begins with a rowdy, whip wielding assembly of locals chasing bystanders through the streets of the village. See video of the baby-jumping festival on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzJBpVVGcWw.

Author, author

Your average 5-year-old may be content to have mom or dad read him or her a story once in a while. But Bella-Jay Dark, who lives in the town of Weymouth, UK, not only reads her books, she writes them, as well, according to AMAC. Bella-Jay had her storybook, “The Lost Cat,” published by Ginger Fyre Press and it is available for purchase on Amazon. In addition to making her parents proud, Bella-Jay earned the Guinness Record title of youngest person to write and publish a book. See video of Bella and her book on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0iqEd3BHXc.

She sought freedom

Her name is Happy and she was allegedly being held against her wishes, according to the AMAC. But the New York Court of Appeals ruled that she has no right to a writ of habeas corpus in order to seek her freedom simply because Happy is an elephant who is being detained in the Bronx Zoo. The petition was filed by the Nonhuman Rights Project, which sought to release her after 50 years in “captivity” at the zoo so that she can spend her remaining years in an elephant sanctuary. Five judges ruled against Happy, but two objected saying that though she may be an elephant she had a right to “freedom.” See video about Happy the elephant on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuxkaiSQHX4.

The Association of Mature American Citizens is a nonprofit, conservative nonpartisan advocacy organization representing membership in Washington, D.C. and in local congressional districts nationwide. More information is available on its website at www.amac.us.

Park It: Independence Day

By Ned MacKay

Fourth of July is almost here, and it is typically one of the busiest days in the East Bay Regional Parks. Keep in mind that fire danger is high. Fireworks of any kind are prohibited in the regional parks. Smoking is prohibited, too.

If you were considering spending the weekend in a regional park campground, it’s too late to get a space. All campsites have been booked in advance. However, this doesn’t preclude a day trip to your favorite park. Barring closures due to fire danger or other emergencies, all regional parks will be open on Independence Day weekend. Before you go, check the park district website, www.ebparks.org, in case of any last-minute restrictions.

On July Fourth, all picnic areas will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s best to arrive early in order to secure
a table. The parks are likely to be crowded, especially those with swim facilities.

There are barbecue stands at most picnic areas. If none are available, it’s permissible to use portable barbecues, but not in tall, dry grass, for obvious reasons. Please dispose of used coals only in the concrete bins designed for that purpose; not in the metal or plastic trash barrels. And always be aware of the need for fire safety.

A few other tips for your holiday excursion:

Take plenty of water, especially if you venture out on the trails. Once you are away from the trailheads and picnic areas, there are few if any drinking water sources in backcountry.
If the weather is hot, plan your hike or ride for morning hours before the heat of the day. And go with a companion; if a problem occurs, one of you can go for help. Pick up a map from the park district website or at a trailhead information panel.
If you go alone, tell someone responsible where you are going and when you will return. Then inform them when you’re home safe.
Don’t forget sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats. Sunburn can ruin your day.
If there’s an emergency in a park, please cooperate with all instructions from lifeguards, rangers, police or firefighters.

Looking beyond the holiday weekend, several enjoyable public programs are scheduled in July. One of them is “Reptile Way Kahoot,” a free virtual program from 4:30 to 5:15 p.m. on Sunday, July 10. All about snakes and other reptiles, it’s hosted by Black Diamond Mines naturalist Kevin Dixon.

To join, visit the Black Diamond Mines Facebook page at that time and date to meet Kevin, the game host. Then have handy an additional tech device, such as a cell phone, tablet or laptop, and wait for Kevin to give instructions and a PIN number.

Two other free virtual programs are on the calendar, both on Saturday, July 16.

One is a nature journaling workshop about bats, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., hosted by naturalist Erica Stephens. Be ready with paper and pencil or your own journal, watercolors, colored pencils, gel pens or markers to follow along as Erica shows how to make observations and practice techniques in investigating the world of the night flyers.

You can watch the program live on the Sunol Regional Wilderness Facebook Page (a Facebook account is not needed), or join via a Nature Journaling Workshop Zoom (limited to the first 100 participants). For the Zoom, go to the July 16 entry on “Things to Do” at the park district website.

The other program is a celebration of World Snake Day with the Black Diamond Mine naturalists, from 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. This is a pre-recorded program available at the Black Diamond Mines Facebook page, all about the variety of snakes that live in the park.

Of course, there are in-person activities available too. For example, Black Diamond Mines, located in Antioch, offers mining history tours every Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Participants tour both the Hazel Atlas Mine and the Coal Mine Experience. Participants must be at least seven years old, and the cost is $8 per person plus a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. Registration is required. To register, call (888) 327-2757, option 2 and refer to program number 45066.

And Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont offers Discovery on Demand from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. Drop in at the visitor center any time during those hours for free, hands-on activities, investigations, and crafts. Parent participation is required. Coyote Hills is at the end of Patterson Ranch Road off Paseo Padre Parkway. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. For information, call (510) 544-3220.

At Sunol Regional Wilderness in southern Alameda County, you can go on a self-guided scavenger hunt any time between 8:30 a.m. and 12 noon on Saturdays, July 9 through August 13. Drop by the visitor center to pick up an activity sheet, then venture out into the park. Sunol Wilderness is at the end of Geary Road off Calaveras Road about five miles south of I-680 and the town of Sunol. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. For information, call (510) 544-3249.

This is just a sample of activities available in the regional parks. However you spend the holiday weekend, have a safe and happy Independence Day.

THE ROBOT REPORT

NASA’s InSight Lander nearing end of journey on Mars

By Brianna Wessling

NASA’s InSight Lander touched down on the surface of Mars on November 26, 2018 after a six-month journey from Earth. NASA’s primary goal for the lander was to glean a better understanding of how terrestrial planets, like Earth and Mars, formed and evolved.

Over three years later, InSight has achieved all of its primary science goals. According to NASA, the InSight team is preparing for the day they’ll have to turn off the lander’s seismometer and other instruments due to the dust slowly covering its solar panels.

The InSight Lander is completely solar powered, and its panels were designed to get the lander through its first two years on the planet with ease, according to Bruce Banerdt, InSight principal investigator and principal research scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL).

The lander is equipped with a seismometer, a heat flow and physical properties package, to measure how much temperature is flowing out of the interior of the planet, and a radio science instrument, RISE, which measures the wobble of Mars’ North Pole as the sun pushes and pulls it in its orbit.

Since landing, InSight has recorded over 1,300 quakes on Mars. The information gathered from the seismometer helped NASA’s scientists better study the layers beneath the surface of Mars. InSight’s seismometer was the first to ever detect a quake on another planet.

InSight’s heat flow probe was not able to reach its intended target of 3-5 meters below the Martian surface, and was unable to obtain the heat flow measurements NASA hoped for. However, the team was able to get some useful measurements, such as the heat transfer in the soil.

The lander’s solar panels have been slowly gathering dust from the Martian atmosphere since its landing, and NASA’s team has been trying to work against the building problem. The team was able to get the lander through the Martian winter, a low power season for InSight, by using its arm to dump heavier sand onto the arrays of the lander to knock the lighter dust off of its solar panels.

While the cleaning method allowed the lander to last through the winter, NASA expects it will run out of power later in the summer, according to Banerdt. Due to the alignment of Mars and the sun, the atmosphere is expected to get much dustier, resulting in a quick drop in power for the lander.

The lander’s science goals were to understand the formation and evolution on Mars and determine the level of tectonic activity on Mars. While it’s already achieved these goals, the lander continues to take seismic readings until it runs out of power.

Brianna Wessling is an Associate Editor, Robotics, WTWH Media. She can be reached at [email protected].

Tri-City History in Photographs #6: Mission (part 2 of 2)

By Kelsey Camello, for the Washington Township Museum of Local History

Mission (noun): A group of people sent by a religious body, especially a Christian church, to a foreign country to do religious and social work. / (verb): To direct a mission to or establish a mission in a given region.

1916 (approximately): Early Committee for the Restoration of Mission San Jose – from left to right: Thomas Witherly, Frank Brackendort, Robert Gall
egos, Manuel Silva, Evelyn Azevedo, Fritz Fernandes, Manuel Telles, (unk) Silva, Joe Azevedo. From 1913 – 1916, money was raised to help restore the Mission to some of its former glory. The “new” Mission was restored and dedicated in 1916.

1947: Taken from a scrapbook compiled to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Mission San Jose, this image shows the site where the 3-day pageant was presented (now home to Ohlone College). This celebration drew a crowd of 50,000 visitors in May 1947.

1960s: Taken from a series of photographs called “Fremont as of 1969,” this image depicts the Ohlone Cemetery located at the intersections of Washington Blvd. and Paseo Padre Pkwy. This graveyard was used for centuries before the Spanish people came into contact with the native people of California. A granite monument at the burial ground suggests that 4000 burials took place there during the Mission Period. In 1964, as construction of Interstate 680 was planned, the Ohlone people put forth an effort to protect this sacred ground. Not only did they succeed in rerouting I-680, they also helped to alter the proposed path of Paseo Padre, thus saving the property from being paved over. The deed to the cemetery was officially transferred from the Roman Catholic Diocese of Oakland to Ohlone Indian Tribe, Inc. in June 1971.

Spring 1983: Mission Days was celebrated in June 1983 amidst reconstruction of the Mission Church. Here the adobe walls are being built. The reconstruction began in 1979 with archaeological work and the moving of the rectory building from Mission Boulevard to Anza Street. In 1982, the wooden St. Joseph Church was moved to San Mateo. The reconstruction of the Mission Church took place over several years, and it was completed and dedicated in 1985.

Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate the many cultures of Mission San Jose at the Founder’s Weekend Festival held on June 11-12. Keep celebrating the 225th year since the founding of Mission San Jose all year long! Find more information at https://mission225.org/.

Let’s learn local history through themes and photographs. Have a topic or idea you’d like us to explore? Email us at [email protected].

Sustainable Water Use in the Landscape

By Melinda Myers

Photo courtesy of Gardener’s Supply Company/gardeners.com

No matter where you live, the conservation and wise use of water in our gardens and landscapes is important. Sustainable water use helps grow beautiful gardens while conserving water and helping reduce water pollution and stormwater overflows.

Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to increase the soil’s ability to absorb and retain rain and irrigation water. More water is absorbed by the amended soil so less runs off your landscape and into the street. This means less fertilizer and pesticides wash into nearby storm sewers, rivers, and lakes.

Cover bare soil with a layer of organic mulch. It conserves moisture so you water less, prevents erosion and helps suppress weeds. As mulch decomposes, it improves soil by adding organic matter and nutrients.

Use rain barrels to capture rainwater that drains off the roof. Purchase a rain barrel or make your own from a recycled food grade container. Evaluate the functional design, appearance and space needed when making your selection. A Flat-Back Rain Barrel fits snuggly against your house and holds 50 gallons of water. Add some storage or planting space with a rain barrel like the Madison Rain Barrel with space on top to hold watering accessories or flowering plants. Use rainwater for watering gardens and containers. Start with a call to your local municipality as some have restrictions on water harvesting, while others encourage this practice and even offer rebates.

Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses for applying water right to the soil where it is needed. You’ll lose less water to evaporation and overspray. Avoiding overhead watering helps reduces the risk of disease. Irrigation systems also reduce your time spent watering and are especially helpful for container gardens and raised beds. Systems with closer drippers like the Raised Bed Drip Line Irrigation Kit (gardeners.com) are more effective at watering small areas like raised beds.

Plant native plants suited to your growing conditions and landscape design whenever possible. These deeply-rooted plants help keep rainwater where it falls, reducing the risk of basement flooding and overwhelming storm sewers. The plants slow the flow of water, helping keep it on your landscape for the plants to use. Their deep roots create pathways for rainwater to enter and travel through the soil. Plant roots and soil help remove impurities from water before it enters groundwater and aquifers.

When adding walks, patios or other hard surfaces to your landscape, consider enlisting permeable options. Permeable pavers allow water to infiltrate the surface rather than run off into the street and storm sewer.

Stepping stones placed in mulched pathways or surrounded by groundcovers make an attractive walkway or patio. Look for attractive, long-lasting and easy-to-install products like the Rubber Leaf stepping stones. Plant groundcovers suited to growing conditions and those that tolerate foot traffic. Planted spaces between hard surfaces allow water to move into and through the soil.

Implementing just a few of these changes in your landscape design and water management can help increase your landscape’s sustainability while reducing your workload.

Melinda Myers is the author of more than 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening and Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Gardener’s Supply for her expertise to write this article. Her web site is www.MelindaMyers.com.

Creating an Abstract Field of Flowers

By Lina Melkonian

Fremont Art Association is thrilled to have Betty Franks as the guest artist at its virtual General Meeting and Art Demo on Wednesday, July 6.

Born in Toronto, Canada, Franks grew up in San Jose, California. A self-taught artist, she embarked upon her creative journey at age 50 after a long corporate career. Today, Franks is recognized as a prolific abstract artist and vivacious art educator. Her distinctive creations, inspired by her hikes and walks, explore lines in nature and the beauty of flowers. Her paintings, which burst with vivid colors and textures, exude a sense of hope that comes with spring and the tenderness of love that finds warmth under the summer sun.

In her demo, Creating an Abstract Field of Flowers, Franks will deconstruct the framework of her creative process including her steps in loosening up, building layers of acrylic paint, and incorporating m
ark-making. She’ll share her favorite tools and painting tips, and her tricks in warding off the judging mind.

To say that Franks has a love affair with flowers would be an understatement. In her own words: “Close your eyes and imagine standing in a field surrounded by all your favorite flowers in all your favorite colors. Breathe in deeply and let the heavenly scents tickle your nose. Wrap your arms around yourself and imagine hugging a huge bouquet so close to you that you’re fully embraced by the glorious colors, shapes, and scents. Yeah…that’s where I am when I’m creating my art.”

In addition to offering various classes and workshops, Franks is generous in sharing her knowledge, talent, and process of creation through her numerous inspiring videos on YouTube covering topics such as: How to Create Bright, Happy Abstract Art; Ode to Joan Mitchell—My Take on Her Style of Art; Creating Depth Through Layers; and Concertina / Accordion Art Journal.

You may view Franks’ works or contact her at:

www.bettyfranksart.com

[email protected]

The meeting (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.

Fremont Art Association general meeting/demo artist

Wednesday, Jul 6

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Via Zoom; link provided upon registration

https://www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo

Call for Artists: Ice Cream Social with Arts and Crafts

By Arathi Satish

Ice Cream Social with Arts and Crafts in Shinn Park will be held on Sunday, July 17. This event is sponsored by Fremont Cultural Arts Council, Mission Peak Heritage Foundation (MPHF), Fremont Art Association, Boy Scout Troop 447 and Jack in the Box. Appreciate local artists and historic crafters as they display, demonstrate and sell their work. Enjoy eating delicious ice cream sundaes and floats that will benefit Shinn House.

Mission Peak Heritage Foundation charges only $20 for a 10-foot x 10-foot area for the artists to display their work. Canopy structure is highly recommended. Participants must also indicate if they need electricity as there is only limited access and amperage available. There is no charge to attend this event, and artists receive all the money from their sales.

Fine arts and crafts from local artists and craftspersons will be accepted. Artists are invited to apply in the categories of painting, photography, sculptures, ceramics, printmaking and many other historic crafts. Work must be original and created by the exhibiting artist. Artists can demonstrate “Art in Action” at their booths. Artists will be able to set up their booths from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and all booths should remain in operation till the end of the event at 4 p.m. Breakdown will begin after 4 p.m.

Applicants must mail the completed entry form, photos as requested, and one business size self-addressed stamped envelope to Art in the Park, C/O Al Minard, 2860 Country Drive, Apt. 326, Fremont, CA 94536 along with a $20 check to MPHF for each 10-ft X 10-ft area. They have to include three clear photos (CD okay) of their work plus a detailed description of their booth. If they have previously been accepted for Arts & Crafts in the Park, photos will not be needed.

To be considered for the selection, applications must be postmarked no later than July 12th. Applications received after that date will be considered on a space available basis. All photographs will be returned if requested and self-addressed stamped envelope provided.

For further details, contact Al Minard (510) 552-4839 at or [email protected]. More information and the participant application form are available at the FCAC office or website www.fremontculturalartscouncil.org.

Ice Cream Social with Art and Crafts in Shinn Park

Sunday, Jul 17

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

1251 Peralta Blvd., Fremont

Postmark applications by:

Tuesday, July 12

10-ft X 10-ft space = $20

Art in the Park, C/O Al Minard

2860 Country Drive, Apt. 326

Fremont, CA 94536

www.fremontculturalartscouncil.org

Call for Artists: Ice Cream Social with Arts and Crafts

By Arathi Satish

Ice Cream Social with Art and Crafts in Shinn Park

Sunday, Jul 17

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

1251 Peralta Blvd., Fremont

Postmark applications by:

Tuesday, July 12

10-ft X 10-ft space = $20

Art in the Park, C/O Al Minard

2860 Country Drive, Apt. 326

Fremont, CA 94536

www.fremontculturalartscouncil.org

Survey examines digital access for older adults

Submitted by Neetu Balram

A new survey examining the digital access needs of older adults in Alameda County suggests that issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic may have resulted in inequitable access to digital resources for some older people.

The survey was circulated to adults 50 and older in Alameda County from April 2021 through March 2022 by the Alameda County Council for Age-Friendly Communities (Age-Friendly Council). The survey asked about seniors’ level of access to internet services and devices, as well as their need for education and training to support their use of the internet.

Results tabulated during May – Older Americans Month — noted that the 1,476 respondents included a significant number with a high level of need for support to access the internet, digital devices, training, and technical support to use those devices.

Key findings include:

Across all the findings, income level had more of an impact than any other variable, with significant differences between those with incomes lower than $2,000 per month and those with higher monthly incomes.
Comfort using telehealth was significantly lower among respondents aged 75 and older than those ages 50-64.
Race/ethnicity was associated with digital access, and some of those differences remained within groups at the same income level.

The report includes six policy and program recommendations, including that all efforts to address gaps in digital resources have a culturally appropriate approach that considers the needs of the County’s diverse populations.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, many seniors experienced increased isolation and more challenges accessing critical services than they had in the past, and many remain unable to connect remotely with health care providers and social supports,” said Kimi Watkins-Tartt, Alameda County Health Care Services Agency’s Public Health Department Director. “This report provides key insights and support for culturally and linguistically competent programs to address the gaps.”

Digital access programs aimed at older people also helps others, said Faith Battles, Assistant Agency Director, Alameda County Social Services Agency. “With this survey, we gathered detailed information about seniors’ need for internet access, digital devices, and education to use those devices,” Battle said. “Developing programs to improve older adults’ access to digital devices benefits the entire community.”

A link to read the full report is posted on the Age Friendly Alameda County website at agefriendly.acgov.org/af-efforts/internet-survey.

Hindus push for Diwali holiday in Alameda County schools

Submitted by Universal Society of Hinduism

Some Hindus are urging all public, charter, private and parochial schools in Alameda County to add Diwali as a school holiday.

Often known as Festival of Lights, Diwali is one of the most important festivals of India and focuses on prosperity while honoring families and friends. Diwali involves the lighting of small clay lamps filled with oil to signify the triumph of good over evil.

In a June 18 statement Rajan Zed, President of Nevada-based Universal Society of Hinduism, said it is not fair that Hindu students to have to be at school during the popular Diwali holiday celebrations while schools are closed to commemorate other religious days. This year, Diwali falls on October 24.

Zed urged superintendents and board presidents of all 18 school districts in Alameda County to work toward adding Diwali as an official holiday. Zed also is seeking support from Alameda County Office of Education Superintendent L. K. Monroe and its Board President Aisha Knowles along with California State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, Alameda County Board of Supervisors President Keith Carson.

Hinduism is the oldest and third largest religion of the world with about 1.2 billion adherents and moksha (liberation) is its ultimate goal. There are about three million Hindus in the United States.

Public school districts in Alameda County include: Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Castro Valley, Dublin, Emery, Fremont, Hayward, Livermore Valley Joint, Mountain House, New Haven, Newark, Oakland, Piedmont, Pleasanton, San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Sunol Glen.

Hike & Sip

Submitted by Chabot Space

This event is for adults 21+. A perfect evening for a date night or fun with friends!

The journey begins at sunset from the Center into the beautiful surrounding redwood forest. We’ll moderately hike 3-4.25 miles (90-120 minutes) along some of the most popular trails as you learn about the history of Oakland, local plants, and the majestic Redwood trees.

We’ll stop to watch the first few planets and stars appear and constellation storytelling before heading back to Chabot.

Upon return, hikers will enjoy a charcuterie board and two complimentary glasses of wine, beer, or non-alcoholic beverages. The night will end with stargazing and telescope viewing (weather permitting). Advanced tickets required.

Hike & Sip

Saturday, Jul 2

6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Chabot Space and Science Center

10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland

(510) 336-7300

www.chabotspace.org

$30, $27 Members

Jenny Lin Foundation for a Safe and Caring Community

Submitted by Queenie Chong

Jenny Lin Foundation, established in Castro Valley following the brutal killing of Jennifer (Jenny) Lin in her own home in 1994, hosts a service every year in honor of Jenny’s memory. The memorial for 2022 was held on Friday, June 17, at the Castro Valley Library. Alameda County Sheriff Greg Ahern, Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O’Malley, as well as Castro Valley Unified School District Superintendent Parvin Ahmadi were among the speakers. The ceremony was then followed by a candlelight walk in downtown Castro Valley. Thanks to the Sheriff’s Office traffic team, the event went smoothly and helped raise awareness of child safety in the community.

Every summer the Jenny Lin Foundation runs a youth music program offered free of charge to middle and high school musicians in the Bay Area. Superintendent Ahmadi appreciated the perseverance shown by the community over many years in continuing Jenny’s love for music. Jenny had never had the chance to begin high school when her life was cut short on May 27, 1994. To date the mystery of her murder has not been solved. An increased reward of $200,000 is maintained for information leading to the conviction of Jenny’s murderer. Anyone with information is urged to call (510) 667-3636 or the Jenny Lin toll-free hotline at (855)4-JENNY-LIN.

Heads up! Parade to close some Fremont streets

Submitted by Fremont Police Department

Motorists in Fremont should expect delays on Monday, July 4 when the Fremont 4th of July Parade closes several major streets in central Fremont.

These roads will be closed during the parade from 10 a.m. to 12:00 noon:

Paseo Padre Parkway (both directions full closure between Mowry Avenue and Stevenson Boulevard)
Stevenson Boulevard between Civic Center Drive and Paseo Padre Parkway
Capitol Avenue (between State Street and Paseo Padre Parkway)
Hastings Street (between Capitol Avenue and Mowry Avenue)
Walnut Avenue (between Liberty Street and Civic Center Drive)
Liberty Street (between Beacon Avenue and Capitol Avenue)

Officials from the Fremont Police Department are asking people who attend the parade to refrain from bringing backpacks and large bags into the parade area; all bags will be subject to search. In addition, UAVs (drones) will not be permitted to fly over the parade route or within the event venue. Only official parade participants with credentials will be allowed to enter the staging area and parade route.

There also will be no public parking at the Fremont Main Library parking lot on
Stevenson Boulevard as that location will be used as a staging area or parade floats. More information about the event, including the parade route and public parking details, is posted on the parade website at fremont4th.org/.

Planting Hope: Community rallies to save communal garden

By Hugo Vera

On a sunny Tuesday afternoon, Alfred Janske steps outside of his apartment located on 808 A. Street in downtown Hayward and tends to his garden located on the complex’s rooftop patio. This impressive array of dahlias, birds of paradise, roses and other beautiful plants is the culmination of hundreds of dollars and thousands of hours on Janske’s part.

And now, all of it could be lost overnight.

Janske grew up in Oakland, the son of a Polish-American father and El Salvadoran immigrant mother. Like many American families feeling the full wrath of the 2008 recession, Janske lost his parents’ home (which he had inherited) in 2010. In the years that followed, Janske and his autistic brother George (for whom he was the primary caretaker before George’s passing in 2021) became some of the first eligible tenants for the affordable senior-living apartments that opened in Hayward in 2018 in conjunction with the City of Hayward and southern California-based Meta Housing corporation.

When the COVID-19 pandemic forced all of the 808 A St. apartment tenants inside, Janske noticed problems within his complex that went beyond isolation.

“A lot of the people who live here have gone through similar situations to me. A lot of them have been homeless, may have a physical/mental impairment, and in some cases both. A lot of people here had become shut-ins as a result, and being stuck inside [because of the pandemic] was only making it worse,” says Janske.

In addition to limited social interactions among the complex tenants, even as COVID-19 restrictions eased up in 2021, the garden area on the rooftop patio had not been tended to or watered to the point that dried-out weeds dominated the space.

“People were all of a sudden expressing that they didn’t even want to look out their windows because of the eyesore of all the weeds. Furthermore, there was a growing fear that stemmed from the recent spike in summertime wildfires that if these weeds were allowed to go unchecked, they too would catch on fire and that terrified many of the tenants,” adds Janske.

This prompted Janske to literally take matters into his own hands. He not only successfully removed all the dry weeds that posed a fire hazard from the area, but he began planting his own array of plants such as crimson clover and a special kind of rose seed that Janske preserved from his mother’s original garden. The initial response to Janske’s garden was positive, with many of his fellow tenants expressing gratitude for no longer having to worry about weed fires. While many were not able to physically lend a hand, locals donated seeds and supplies from all over the East Bay.

“When I had done this, there was no written clause or ordinance in the lease preventing me from gardening in the communal patio. I had spent time fostering a working relationship with the original manager of the complex,” Janske explains, adding, “Not long after our new manager took over, I received a letter.”

In late May 2022, Janske received a letter from the complex’s new manager that thanked him for his contributions with the garden but announced that a third-party landscaper would take over operations due to “a liability of people climbing the retaining wall.” The letter also added, “Please let us know if you would like to remove the plants before July 1st. Otherwise, the landscaper will remove them.”

Among other things, Janske calls the letter and the matter in which it was sent to him “cowardly” and a breach of transparency between the tenants and building management.

“First of all, no one was climbing up the retaining wall in the first place. This must have to do more with the costs of maintenance than with any safety concern. This begs the question; why can’t I be provided with the funding and resources in which we work with the city to draw up our own insurance plan for what would essentially be my own ‘landscaping’ company for the building?”

Despite his passionate stance against the management’s decision to do away with his garden, Janske has expressed that he fears retaliation if he challenges the decision further.

For Janske and his fellow “survivors” on 808 A. Street, the garden’s importance goes far beyond aesthetics. “The general consensus about the garden prior to our intervention is that it was boring, ugly and uninspired. Now it’s not,” concludes Janske. “For so many people here, this garden has been immensely beneficial not just for their physical health but also for their mental health. I fear what might be done to me if I resist, but I dread the loss of this garden too.”

Disclaimer: A formal media inquiry was filed with Meta Housing to get their input on the situation. No response was received at the time of this article’s publication.

The Cobblers mark 64 Years of Success

By Jack Alcorn

In 2022, renowned downtown Hayward shoe store “The Cobblers” celebrates its 64th year of business at its Foothill Boulevard and A Street location. 86-year-old patriarch Rudy Grasseschi started working when he was 11 years old in his dad’s shop, which opened in 1932 on the corner of B Street and Castro Street (Mission Boulevard). “I used to go down there after grammar school and work with my older brothers,” recalls Rudy. “I would shine shoes and my father (Alfred) would give me a nickel for every pair of shoes I shined. I’d make about 20 cents a day and that was enough by the end of the week to go to the Hayward Theater to see a movie – actually two movies, cartoons, a soda and a bag of popcorn for 25 cents! So, I was making big money in those days.”

Hayward was expanding rapidly in the late 1950’s and many large retail stores opened up on Foothill Boulevard, including Capwells, Goldman’s, Grodins Clothing, and Kushing Shoes. The Grasseschis opened a second shoe and repair shop on Foothill Boulevard in June of 1958. A larger 4,000 sq. ft. Foothill space with a basement was acquired in 1991. Rudy’s sons Dino and Rodney run the store with help from Rudy’s grandsons Kenneth and Wayne. Rudy added, “Once in a while some of the granddaughters pop in and say, ‘Papa I need some money for school,’ and I say ‘well you gotta work for it,’ so they’ll come down and earn the money they want.”

Rudy Grasseschi proudly shared his family’s story. “My grandfather in Italy was a Shoemaker. He not only fixed them but he actually made shoes. That’s where my father learned [the trade] and then came to America in 1906. He was 14 years old and came from Ellis Island straight to Niles, California, because in those days you had to have a sponsor, a job and a place to stay. He went to Montana for a while to work in the copper mines and met my mom [Alina Michelotti] there. They were married in 1919 and had eight children. Montana was too cold so they came back to California. That’s when my father opened up the shop in 1932.”

Born in Hayward in 1935, Rudy was the ninth child in his family. Rudy married Lois Pike in 1957. The two had been friends in Hayward since the early 1950’s. According to Rudy, “Hayward was a small city and everyone knew each other at school.”

Still going strong, The Cobblers sell mostly work boots, dress shoes, western boots, belts and hats. “We sell American-made boots. That’s what we promote the most – American-made work boots,” Rudy explained. “It’s getting harder and harder to buy anything that’s made in the United States
anymore, but that’s what we try to sell. We also offer sole and heel repairs and replacements.”

The thriving landmark shoe store has outlived many major Hayward retailers. Rudy shared, “The Internet and this buying online thing killed a lot of small businesses, but we have very, very loyal customers. They come from 20, 30 miles away to buy western boots or work boots and we take care of them. My dad used to say if you take care of the customers they will come back. That’s true today.”

The Cobblers host an annual classic car show each June to celebrate the family enterprise anniversary. Dozens of immaculately restored vintage American automobiles were on display all afternoon on Sunday, June 12 in the store’s parking lot, with free hot dogs and soda provided by The Cobblers. Rudy remarked, “We haven’t had it (the car show) for two years because of the pandemic but it turned out really good, so I’m pleased to be here. Hayward is my town. I was born here, three blocks from here, and I’m still here and I love Hayward. Hayward has been good.”

The Cobblers

22443 Foothill Blvd., Hayward

(510) 582-7761

www.thecobblersboots.com

Tri-City Women’s Club

Submitted by Deanna Sorensen

We are honored to present to you the 2022 – 2023 Tri-City Women’s Club Officers. For more information about our organization, please call Betty Brousseau at (916) 217-3074.

SpaceX closer to launching giant rocketship after FAA review

By Marcia Dunn

AP Aerospace Writer

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP), Jun 13 – SpaceX cleared a key hurdle Monday for its plan to launch a gigantic, futuristic rocketship into orbit from Texas.

The Federal Aviation Administration concluded an environmental review of Elon Musk’s Starship base. The agency saw no significant environmental concerns, but is requiring more than 75 actions to reduce impacts to the region.

It’s no guarantee a launch license will be issued since other factors such as safety and financial responsibility requirements still must be met at the Boca Chica site, according to the FAA.

After the latest news, SpaceX tweeted: “One step closer to the first orbital flight test of Starship.”

At nearly 400 feet (120 meters), Starship is the most powerful rocket ever built and meant to carry people to the moon and Mars. NASA intends to use it for the space agency’s lunar landing of astronauts, planned no earlier than 2025.

While SpaceX has launched Starship’s bullet-shaped upper stage several miles (10 kilometers) into the air over the past year – resulting in some spectacular explosions – it’s yet to fly it atop a Super Heavy booster.

Some residents had opposed Starship launches and landings, citing not only the noise and closed roads, but also wreckage raining down from failed flights. As part of the FAA report, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service insisted on additional measures, but noted operations were unlikely to jeopardize endangered species or their habitat.

The site is located at the southernmost tip of Texas, about 1,000 miles west of Cape Canaveral where SpaceX launches astronauts and supplies to the International Space Station for NASA.

Letter to the Editor

Anybody home?

Lights are on but nobody seems to be at home in The Oval Office at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, D.C.

The worst inflation in forty years is crushing the American people and depleting their savings with $7 regular gasoline and $6 for a loaf of white bread. This is NOT normal. These runaway inflated prices do not indicate a “good economy” no matter how many times news reporters say it is.

It is looking more like a Venezuelan economic collapse. Both parties in Washington, D.C. need to take action yesterday to stop the drop in the value of the U.S. dollar beyond repair.

Hello, anybody home?

Maria Gomez

Hayward

Letter to the Editor

On The Rodeo Front

Some good news to report (for the animals, anyway). The Livermore Jr. Rodeo, scheduled for June 18, was cancelled, reportedly due to the unavailability of an on-site ambulance. The Rowell Ranch Jr. Rodeo remains scheduled for August 5-7 at this time.

Which raises a question: California Education Code 60042 mandates that “humane education and kindness to animals be taught in the public schools, K-12.” Jr. Rodeos would seem a blatant violation of this mandate, what with their many abusive events, such as “mutton busting,” calf riding and roping, goat tying, animal “scrambles,” et al., dangerous for children and animals alike. None of these events have anything to do with life on a working ranch.

Nearly every animal welfare organization in California condemns rodeos due to their inherent cruelty. Various school districts need to be called to task on this humane issue. Perhaps lawsuits are in order.

As Tennessee Williams wrote in “Night of the Iguana”: “Cruelty is the only unforgivable sin.”

Sincerely,

Eric Mills

Action For Animals

Oakland

Letter to the Editor

Drivers for Survivors founder needs help

Many people in the Tri-Cities, especially those who have fought a battle with cancer, know my mom, Sherry Higgs, and know what a strong, strong woman she is. In 2011, she was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer and given six months to live. But, being the strong, courageous woman she is, she beat the odds!

She used her battle with cancer as a motivator and founded Drivers for Survivors, a non-profit organization that provided rides to treatments and companionship for cancer patients. Unfortunately, the organization was forced to close its doors in 2021 due to COVID.

A few weeks ago, my mom started feeling ill, suffering with dizziness and headaches. It got so bad she went to the emergency room for treatment. That night she learned she had a 6 cm brain tumor. Within three days, she had two emergency surgeries to relieve pressure on her brain. Today she learned the tumor was metastatic cancer, most likely from her original bout with cancer.

She has a difficult road ahead of her. I know my mom is capable of pushing through this difficult hardship and has the strength to keep fighting this fight. The financial burden is not one I want her to bear; the bills will be more than she can handle. I am now asking for your help. Please help my mom pay for the care that she needs to combat this horrible disease.

We have started a go fund me to raise money to ensure the best treatment and quality of life- https://www.gofundme.com/f/sherrys-brain-surgerys?fbclid=IwAR1DO4THMP-_Wy1TMMzuEIGEwffsW2cNMCUsWWRxh1N2PtGmn-u0_idVAE0&fs=e&s=cl

Thank You,

Sofia Higgs

Mission Highlands Sharks’ Swim Victory

By Angela Xiong

On Saturday, June 18, the third dual meet of 12 East Bay Swim League (EBSL) teams took place around the Bay Area in cities including Hayward, Fremont, Newark, San Leandro and Castro Valley.

EBSL is dedicated to providing young swimmers with the opportunity for summer recreational swimming competitions in order to foster sportsmanship, team spirit and cooperation within the sport of swimming. In Fremont, this mission was accomplished through Fremont Highlands Swim Club’s friendly and educational swim meet against Warm Springs Aquatic Gators.

The meet consisted of swimmers ranging from ages five
to 18. The educational and developmental emphasis present within the league allowed for the meet to maintain an encouraging atmosphere throughout. Fellow swimmers, timers, and parents alike gathered around the pool perimeters cheering swimmers on as they swam 50 and 100-meter events across the pool.

The enthusiastic energy of the swimmers continued to parallel that of the sunny Saturday weather. As events, including the Girls’ fifteen 50-yard breaststroke and butterfly took place, swimmers took the meet as a way to learn from one another during the summer season. One particular event that stood out was the Boys’ eleven-twelve 50-yard butterfly event where a lone swimmer competed against himself while the crowd continued to cheer him on. The meet concluded with collective team scores of 624 from the Highland Sharks and 402 from the Warm Springs Gators.

Reflecting on the ongoing season and meet, Highland’s Coach Joseph Allred said “The season has been going great, we had our first meet a couple of weeks ago against South Bay. [In today’s meet], we did absolutely marvelously, everyone did a tremendous job, and everyone gallivanted and had a great time.”

Summer All Sports Camp

Submitted by Cal State East Bay Athletics

This week-long day camp offers a wide variety of sports and activities for campers. Activities included, but not limited to: basketball, swimming, soccer, volleyball, dodgeball, kickball, arts & crafts, and more! All activities take place on the Hayward campus of Cal State East Bay. Lunch will be provided every day.

The only equipment that your camper will need to bring are: Swimming gear, snacks, and shoes to be active in (sandals are prohibited).

There is an extended care option from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

2022 Summer Camps

Enter grades: 1st – 8th

Age groups 1: 6-9

Age group 2: 9-11

Age group 3: 11-13

Drop-off: 8 a.m.

Camp: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Week 4 – July 11-15

Week 5 – July 18 – 22

Week 6 – July 25 – 29

Week 7 – August 1 – 5

Please check with camp staff regarding mask requirements.

Summer All Sport Camp

Dates vary

Drop-off: 8 a.m.

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Cal State East Bay, Hayward

1901 Harder Rd., Hayward

Cost: $350/camper/week

Hobby turns to passion for San Leandro police officer

Submitted by San Leandro Police Department

Officer Dennis Mally, a 16-year-veteran of the San Leandro Police Department (SLPD), can add another accomplishment to his resume: national weightlifting champion.

Mally, who has been fond of weightlifting for several years, stepped up his game recently to focus on competition – specifically powerlifting. His chance to compete on a national level came recently when he represented SLPD in the United States Police & Fire Championships competition in San Diego.

The annual event features Olympic-style competitions with athletes representing law enforcement, firefighters, and officers from corrections, probation, border protection, immigration and customs from across the country. This year’s event was held June 11-19 and attracted more than 2,800 competitors in 50 different sports.

Mally competed in the powerlifting category, including bench press and deadlift. He placed second in his age group of police and firefighters from across the country and was awarded a silver medal. In a statement, Malley said, “I am very proud to have competed on behalf of our department. I thank all those who have supported me in this endeavor, including my family, friends, coworkers and the San Leandro Police Officers Association.”

During his career with SLPD, Mally has held numerous positions including working several years as a K-9 officer. Currently, he is a Field Training Officer who works with recruits after they graduate from the police academy. “Dennis embodies a healthy work-life balance, and it is important for him to set an example to our newer officers in what can be a very challenging profession at times,” said Lieutenant Matthew Barajas.

Honor Roll

James Madison University, Virginia

Spring 2022 President’s List

Katherine Wheeler of Hayward

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Spring 2022 Dean’s List

Alberto Alaniz of Fremont

Lehigh University, Pennsylvania

Spring 2022 graduate

Hanlin Fu of Milpitas

Ohio University

Spring 2022 graduates

Joyce Gitau of Hayward
Angelina Speltz of Castro Valley

California State University, Stanislaus

Spring 2022 graduates

Vanesa Pelayo of Union City
Hope Pintos of Fremont
Grace Wilson of Hayward
Marissa Allison of Fremont
Marlon Mejia of Hayward
Sharrukina Tamrazi of Fremont
Erica Wafer of Hayward
Ralph Bijasa of Milpitas

Newark Optimist Club Honors Police Officers of the Year

Submitted by Marla Blowers

On May 11, 2022, thirty-four Optimists and guests gathered at the Newark IHOP to honor the 2021 Officers of the Year from Fremont, Union City and Newark. We always say IHOP is the safest place in town on this special occasion.

Respect for Law is an Optimist International program. Clubs all over the world hold events such as ours to honor officers during the third week of May. As we hold this event, we fulfill one of our Purposes: “To inspire respect for Law.” The Newark Optimists have been holding this event for nearly forty years!

Dignitaries from all three cities spoke to honor their respective officers. Police Officer of the Year is a peer generated honor and the recipients are always highly respected officers.

Union City Chief of Police Jared Rinetti praised their honoree, Officer Manny Leon, for his consistently high standard of leadership. Manny is a humble man who oversees crime scene investigations and presents training in camera and Taser equipment. He gives his all in everything he does.

Newark Chief of Police Gina Anderson said their honoree, Anthony Piquette, is very deserving of this peer generated award because of his positive and steady work ethic. He offers his “best attitude every day, never shirks working extra hours, and is always ready to assist his fellow officers.” She said, “I see him shine every day!” Anthony works with unmanned aircraft and was given the City of Newark Pride Award for helping a young man who was going through a difficult time at home.

Fremont Chief of Police Sean Washington said their honoree, Kurtis Romley, challenges the organization to be better. He is an investigative Sergeant who serves on the SWAT Team, and also serves as the Police Officer Association President.

Each officer spoke and thanked the Optimists and their departments for honoring them. They are humble men who serve the community to the highest level. We can be thankful for their service, loyalty, and commitment to their profession.

The honorees were presented individual plaques to mark this special occasion. Each department has a perpetual trophy plaque that is updated each year and provides a history of each respective department’s honorees.

Of note: Chief Washington said that with all the bad press about police officers, the men and women are “good people doing the right thing”. He praised the Optimist Club for promoting the goodness of the profession.

Richard Hammock served as emcee for the event and Marla Blowers was the event chair/photographer.

If you would like to learn more a
bout the Newark Optimist Club, call Marla for more information. (510) 409-1498.

Park District Receives Awards

By Ned MacKay

East Bay Regional Park District staff and volunteers have received a variety of awards in recent times, all in recognition of the district’s work in serving the public.

Two major awards were received in 2021. One was the Excellence in Parks and Recreation Facility Award, which was conferred by the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials. It cites three of the District’s regional shoreline projects designed to increase public access, mitigate sea level rise, and restore habitat. The projects were completed in 2020 at Judge John Sutter Shoreline in Oakland, the San Francisco Bay Trail at Albany Beach, and Bay Point in East Contra Costa.

Another honor in 2021 was the Global Citizen Award from the United Nations Association USA’s East Bay and Silicon Valley Chapters. It commended the District for keeping parks running and opening three shoreline parks during the COVID-19 pandemic. It also recognized the district’s contributions to the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, as well as keeping parks running during the pandemic while opening the three new shoreline venues.

More honors have accumulated so far this year. Three Awards of Distinction have been conferred by the California Association of Recreation and Park Districts (CARPD):

Director Ayn Wieskamp, who has served on the park district board for 24 years, received a well-deserved designation of Outstanding Board Member for her lifetime of service in environmental conservation and preservation of parks for perpetuity with access for all. Ayn also received the Distinguished Service Award from the Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals.

Carl La Rue and Ned MacKay have been named Outstanding Volunteers. They have served for a combined total of 37 years on the District’s Volunteer Trail Safety Patrol, whose members patrol the regional parks on foot, bicycle and horseback, reporting on trail conditions and assisting park visitors.

CARPD designated Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay in Fremont as an Outstanding New Facility. It is the District’s first full-service shoreline campground. The campground also received an Outstanding Achievement in Parks and Recreation award from the National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials.

And the district has received an Award of Excellence in Innovation in Green Community Planning from the American Planning Association Northern California. The award is for work on the San Francisco Bay Trail.

Bart O’Brien, manager of the Regional Parks Botanic Garden at Tilden Regional Park, received the prestigious Liberty Hyde Bailey Award from the American Horticultural Society. It recognizes his four decades of leadership in promoting California native plant horticulture and conserving biodiversity, and his extensive research and publication in scientific and scholarly journals.

California Parks & Recreation Society (CPRS) District 3 has given two awards to the Park District this year:

One award recognizes the Park District’s dedication to policies promoting Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI). It cited numerous programs the District has carried out promoting and practicing JEDI principles, including staff training and the naming of Thurgood Marshall Regional Park, Home of Port Chicago 50.

CPRS also presented an Outstanding Park Award to Dumbarton Quarry Campground.

Two individuals were honored by the National Association for Interpretation (NAI), Region 9.

One is Ira Bletz, the District’s regional interpretive and recreation services manager. He received the Master Interpretive Manager Award. Bletz has served as a nature educator and interpretive services manager at the District for many years. Among other assignments, he is the former supervisor of Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont.

Ed Valenzuela was recognized by NAI as an Outstanding Interpretive Volunteer. Valenzuela is an enthusiastic volunteer at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley, where he helps with school programs and acts as a greeter in the visitor center.

Last but not least, the District’s San Francisco Bay Trail Risk Assessment and Adaptation Prioritization Plan received a Merit Award – Planning from California Trails & Greenways.

The Park District board, staff and volunteers all greatly appreciate the honors conferred by these organizations. The district plans to continue its work to improve and enhance the regional parks and the great variety of programs and facilities that they offer.

Alameda County Lifts Local Masking Order

Submitted by Alameda County

June 24, 2022, health officials announced that Alameda County will again align with California’s face masking guidance and rescind the local Health Officer Order requiring masks in most indoor public settings, effective 12:01 a.m. on June 25, 2022. Alameda County Health Officer closely monitored local COVID-19 trends while the masking order was in place and has determined that it can be lifted given current conditions. The State and Alameda County continue to strongly recommend masking indoors.

Daily reported COVID-19 cases have peaked and continue to decline, and case rates are improving across each of the County’s largest racial and ethnic groups, including Hispanic/Latino residents who were once again disproportionately affected. Local wastewater data, which provides information about the amount of COVID-19 circulating in the community even when reported case information is incomplete, supports these trends. While the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 remains elevated, daily new hospital admissions of patients with COVID-19 have stabilized. On June 23, Alameda County moved from CDC’s “High” (Orange) COVID-19 Community Level to “Moderate” (Yellow).

Despite these improvements, residents should anticipate substantial ongoing impacts from COVID-19 after the order is lifted. Indoor masking continues to be required by the State for everyone, regardless of vaccination status, in health care settings; congregate settings like correctional facilities and homeless shelters; and long-term care facilities.

The masking order was put in place to increase mask wearing in indoor settings, bring an earlier and lower peak to the spring wave, reduce impacts of severe disease and increase protection for those at greatest risk of poor health outcomes, consistent with Alameda County’s strategy throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The order was based on extensive scientific literature showing that masks prevent COVID-19 infection and transmission, and that increased masking in community settings is associated with decreased COVID-19 spread.

“Conditions have stabilized following the sustained increases in case reports and hospitalizations we saw throughout May,” said Alameda County Health Officer Dr. Nicholas Moss. “While we expect continued impacts from COVID-19 in the coming weeks and masks remain strongly recommended, it is appropriate to step down from the Health Officer masking order at this time.”

The pandemic isn’t over. The virus that causes COVID-19 continues to circulate, disrupt people’s lives and disproportionately impact communities of color, older adults, and those with underlying health conditions. Just since January 1st of this year, COVID-19 has caused the death of 328 Alameda County residents and 13,135 Californians.

Businesses, venue operators, and hosts may choose to continue requiring patrons and workers to wear masks to lower COVID-19 risk in their settings. “Masks work and are still an important tool to slow the spread of COVI
D-19 in our communities, especially when rates are high,” said Dr. Moss. “We strongly encourage everyone to continue masking to protect themselves and others from COVID.”

Alameda County is also aligning with the State’s quarantine guidance and definition of close contact, effective 12:01 a.m. on Wednesday, June 29, 2022. People who are close contacts but don’t have symptoms should test within 3-5 days after last exposure and wear a well-fitting mask around others for a total of 10 days, especially in indoor settings and when near those at higher risk for severe COVID-19 disease. Anyone who develops symptoms should test immediately and stay home. Anyone who tests positive must follow isolation requirements.

Work exclusion or quarantine continues to be required for some exposed workers and residents in high-risk settings, and recommended for others. Aligning with the State’s quarantine guidance will not present a public health risk as most Alameda County residents are exempt from current County quarantine requirements due to vaccination status. Alignment with the State will provide clarity for workplaces, which can now look to Cal/OSHA for guidance without also considering differing local rules.

In addition to masking, testing if symptomatic or exposed, and staying home if sick or positive, residents are reminded to stay up to date on vaccinations and keep gatherings small and outdoors or increase ventilation if gathering indoors to limit the impacts of COVID-19.

Treatment is available if you test positive for COVID, have mild or moderate symptoms, and are at high risk for severe disease. Talk to your health care provider about treatment options. If support is needed to understand treatment options or find out if treatment is right for you, please call Alameda County’s COVID line: (510) 268-2101.

Vaccination continues to provide the best long-term protection against serious COVID-19 disease. Everyone 6 months and older is now eligible for safe, effective COVID-19 vaccines. The best place for families to get their 6-month to 4-year-old children vaccinated is their healthcare provider’s office. If you are not vaccinated or boosted, we strongly urge you to get up to date on your COVID-19 vaccinations now.

Visit the COVID-19 website for informational resources: https://covid-19.acgov.org/

City Government and You! – A Series Exclusive

Gathering and engaging in civic discourse dates back to the founding of this country. It speaks to the democratic core of our society, and is the method by which laws are made to this day.

In this special series, we take a deeper look at city government and, in particular, we explore the many advisory boards, committees and commissions that exist at a local level. Who resides on these boards? How long are their terms? Where and when do they meet? What do they do? How do they feel about what they’re doing?

If you’ve ever wondered how cities operate, then this is the series for you. Our goal is to help demystify the process and encourage active participation.

Join us as we pull back the curtain on democracy.

Milpitas Veterans Commission

By Hugo Vera

City of Milpitas’ Veterans Commission is a nine-member board that advises the Milpitas City Council on issues and affairs regarding the city’s veteran community. The Veterans Commission is composed of seven regular members and two alternates that are appointed by the Mayor of Milpitas and then approved by the Milpitas City Council. All citizens interested in serving on the commission must either be actively serving in the armed forces or need to have been ‘honorably discharged’ from service.

Milpitas Veterans Commission was founded on December 1, 2009 by then-Mayor and Veterans Commission Chair Denny Weisgerber after assessing the city’s need for a support system for the veteran community amid the outbreak of the war in Afghanistan. As of this writing, the Veterans Commission meets on a bi-weekly monthly basis, convening the first Wednesdays of the months of February, April, June, October, and December at 5:30 p.m. in Milpitas City Hall (455 E Calaveras Blvd).

While all of Milpitas’ neighboring cities (Fremont, Newark, San Jose, Union City, etc.) have partnerships with local veteran organizations such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), Milpitas is unique in that it is the only city situated in the Tri-City area/lower east bay with its own designated City Council Veterans Commission. City leaders and residents attribute Milpitas’ affinity for veteran support to the fact that more than 2,100 veterans alone reside or work in Milpitas.

Unlike other commissions discussed in this series, Veteran Commissioners volunteer for their duties as opposed to having to campaign for their seats. They do, however, coordinate with the City Liaison to organize events such as the Memorial Day ceremony, Fourth of July parade, Veterans Day ceremony as well as luncheons for the veteran community when the situation allows.

It’s no secret that many members of the veteran community face issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), homelessness, job insecurity, food insecurity and lack of proper health care. The veterans commission works tirelessly to combat these issues by connecting members of the veteran community to resources such as medical clinics, food banks, job training centers and mental health care in accordance with the armed forces’ Transition Assistance Program (TAP). In fact, many organizations stemming from veteran support have become autonomous projects that now serve all residents of Milpitas (veteran or not) including Milpitas HOPE Suicide Prevention Task Force and Santa Clara County Community Plan to End Homelessness.

“I believe the City of Milpitas has improved in the manner of respect that we have shown to the American flag and to our veterans,” says current Milpitas Veterans Commission Chair Liliana Ramos. “Our veterans feel seen at our veteran events and we have received positive feedback at all of our events.”

One of the many hallmarks of the Veterans Commission is its annual Milpitas Veteran of the Year ceremony which honors individuals of the city’s veteran community for their exemplary contributions to their respective fields of work and their community. 2021 Milpitas Veteran of the Year Award was awarded to Vietnam War veteran Andy Dyson who’s been heavily involved with two of the city’s Catholic churches as well as the Milpitas Pantry for more than 40 years.

For more information on the Milpitas Veterans Commission as well as for links to resources to support the veteran community, visit:

www.ci.milpitas.ca.gov/our-government/commission/veterans/

Newark City Council

June 23, 2022

Presentations:

Employee introduction of Human Resources Technician Deepa Iyer

Consent Calendar:

Approval of audited demands
Approval of June 9, 2022 meeting minutes
Adopt a resolution confirming the continued existing of a local emergency due to COVID-19
Adopt a resolution finding that there is a proclaimed state of emergency; and authorizing continued remote teleconferenced meetings of the legislative bodies of the City of Newark for the 30-day period beginning June 23.
Adopt a resolution establishing the Fiscal Year 2023 Tax Appropriations Limit
Adopt a resolution authorizing a certification and agreement with Alameda County
Adopt a resolution to execute the second amendment to the agreement with 4Leaf Inc. to provide temporary professional planning servi
ces
Adopt a resolution approving agreements with MNS Engineers, Inc. and CSG Consultants, Inc. for on-call public works construction inspection services
Adopt a resolution accepting public subdivision improvements for Tract Classic 36304 Newark Boulevard, a 9-lot residential subdivision located at 36304-36310 Newark Boulevard
Adopt a resolution approving a purchase order with Dell Marketing, L.P (Dell) in the amount of $360,668.25 for the renewal of software licenses and subscription services
Adopt a resolution approving the road repair and Accountability Act of 2017 Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Project List
Year-end Budget Review and adopt a resolution approving an amendment of the 2020-2022 Biennial Budget and Capital Improvement Plan for Fiscal Year 2022

Public Hearing:

Annual levy of assessment in conjunction with landscaping and lighting districts nos. 1,2,4,6,7,13,15,16,17,18 and 19. Motion passed unanimously.
Annual levy of assessment in conjunction with landscaping and lighting districts nos. 10 and 11. Motion passed 4 – 0 (Collazo: Recused)
Adopt a resolution approving the 2022-2024 biennial budget and capital improvement plan. Motion passed unanimously.

Other Business:

Adopt Resolutions approving: 1) the memorandum of understanding with Newark Association of Miscellaneous Employees; 2) Newark Police Management Association; 3) the Compensation and Benefit Plan for the Confidential Employee Group; 4) the Management, Supervisory, and Professional Employee Group; and 5) an Amendment to the Employment Agreement with City Manager David Benoun to Serve as City Manager. Motion passed unanimously.
Introduction of an ordinance amending chapter 2.09 of the Newark Municipal Code to increase the salaries of City Councilmembers and Mayor by three percent. Will be discussed at a future meeting.

City Council Matters:

Congratulations to Mayor Nagy on State of the City Address
Successful Story Time at the library, Juneteenth themed
Sisk Park summer concerts and Mariachi Festiva coming up

Mayor Alan Nagy Aye

Vice Mayor Michael Hannon Aye

Luis Freitas Aye

Sucy Collazo Aye, 1 Recused

Michael Bucci Aye

San Leandro City Council

June 21, 2022

Recognitions:

Mayor’s Award for Kindness given to Julia Chivers, Madison Elementary School teacher.
Proclaiming June 25 – July 1, 2022 as Boys and Girls Club Week in San Leandro.
Proclaiming June 27, 2022 as Fred Zehnder Day in San Leandro.
Resolution Recognizing the City of San Leandro’s Sesquicentennial.

City Council Calendar and Announcements:

Councilmember Aguilar likes Story Time at the San Lorenzo Library.
Councilmember Cox attended June 11th Eden Area League of Women Voters meeting; congratulated San Leandro Police Department for solving recent hate crime.
Councilmember Azevedo wants vehicle impounds and fines for “donut” making speeders.
Councilmember Lopez thanked San Leandro Police Department for their efforts; mentioned availability at City cooling shelters and swimming pools.
Mayor Cutter mentioned tree planting ceremony at Toyon Park 9 a.m. – 12 noon on June 30th.

Presentations:

Alameda County Transportation Commission Executive Director Tess Lengyel presented East Bay Greenway Multimodal Project.
Economic Development Manager Katie Bowman presented Monarch Bay Shoreline Development.
Senior Housing Specialist Maryann Sargent presented FY 2022-2023 HUD Annual Action Plan.
Finance Director Susan Hsieh presented Fiscal Year 2021-23 Mid-Cycle Budget.

Consent Calendar:

Minutes of the Finance Committee Meeting of January 12, 2022.
Minutes of the Finance Committee Meeting of December 7, 2021.
Minutes of the Disaster Council Meeting of May 19, 2022.
Motion nominating Reina Canale as Homeowner/Resident Member to the Rent Review Board for term ending December 31, 2022.
Motion nominating Mia Ousley as Landlord Member of the Rent Review Board for term ending December 31, 2022.
Motion approving the cancellation of the July 11, 2022 City Council Districts 3, 4, and 6 Town Hall Meeting.
Resolution authorizing an agreement with Townsend Public Affairs for State Legislative Advocacy Services.
Resolution authorizing an agreement with Dixon Resources Unlimited for Parking Program Management Services.
Resolution authorizing an agreement with ANI Private Security and Patrol, Inc. for security services at the Marina Community Center, San Leandro Senior Community Center, Surlene Grant Community Room, and during open business hours at City Hall.
Resolution authorizing an agreement with RRM Design Group for design improvements to Memorial Park.
Resolution approving the City’s Gann Appropriation Limit for 2022-2023.
Resolution amending the San Leandro Management Organization Salary Schedule to add the Classification of Senior Management Analyst and Revise Additional Classification titles.
Resolution authorizing an amendment to the agreement between the City of San Leandro and Teri Black and Company, LLC for additional recruiting services.
Resolution amending the Non-Represented Part-Time Salary Schedule.
Resolution authorizing an agreement between the City of San Leandro, Columbia Telecommunications Corporation (CTC), and the Corporation for Education Network Initiatives in California (CENIC) for the provision, installation, and maintenance of 1Gbps broadband data connections for each of the four San Leandro Public Library facilities.
Resolution authorizing the San Leandro Public Library to join the Bay Area Library and Information System (BALIS), and by default, the Pacific Library Partnership (PLP).
Resolution authorizing an amendment to the agreement between the City of San Leandro and Robert Half International Inc. for staff augmentation services at the Police Department.
Resolution authorizing an amendment to the agreement between the City of San Leandro and BrightView Landscape Services, Inc. dba Emerald Landscape for landscaping services at the City of San Leandro Water Pollution Control Plant.
Resolution authorizing an agreement with Angeles Contractor, Inc. for asphalt and concrete improvements at the Tony Lema Golf Course parking lot.
Resolution awarding a construction contract to Spencon Construction, Inc. for the Annual Sidewalk Repair Program.
Resolution authorizing an amendment to the agreement between the City of San Leandro and Climatec, LLC to include replacement of the HVAC system at the Senior Community Center.
Resolution authorizing an agreement with Lind Marine, Inc. for removal and disposal of 15 boats and 4 boat trailers from the San Leandro Marina.
Resolution authorizing a two-year agreement with David Sams for management of the City’s management agreement with American Golf Corporation.

Items Removed From Consent Calendar:

Resolution denouncing discriminatory housing practices of the past and affirming that San Leandro is a welcoming place for all. Motion unanimously adopted.

Public Hearings:

Resolution approving the U.S. Departm
ent of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Final FY 2022-2023 Annual Action Plan; Resolution approving the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) agreements for Fiscal Year 2022-2023 between the City of San Leandro and CDBG Sub-Recipients. Motion unanimously adopted.
Resolution adopting an addendum to the San Leandro Shoreline Development Project EIR and approving a planned development project and site plan review for the private elements of the Monarch Bay Shoreline Development. Motion unanimously adopted.
Ordinance authorizing a development agreement for the Monarch Bay Shoreline Development Project. Motion unanimously adopted.
Resolution authorizing a second amendment to the purchase and sale agreement and disposition and development agreement with Cal Coast Companies LLC, Inc. Motion unanimously adopted.

Action Items:

Resolution approving project concept designs for the East Bay Greenway Multimodal Project (Phase I). Motion unanimously adopted.
Resolution approving adjustments to the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 General Fund, Special Revenue Funds, Enterprise Funds, and Internal Service Funds Budget. Motion unanimously adopted.

City Council Reports:

Councilmember Aguilar attended Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District meeting.
Councilmember Cox attended STOP Waste and County/State Public Policy meetings.
Councilmember Lopez attended East Bay Community Energy Board meeting and Latino Caucus retreat.

Mayor Pauline Russo Cutter Aye

Vice Mayor Pete Ballew Absent

Victor Aguilar Aye

Bryan Azevedo Aye

Fred Simon Absent

Deborah Cox Aye

Corina Lopez Aye

In-vehicle camera protection bill moves forward

Submitted by Jeff Barbosa

With more cars becoming equipped with in-vehicle cameras that record the interior of the vehicle cabin and the actions of the driver, some analysts believe this data may become lucrative if sold or shared for advertising purposes.

Expressing concern for the privacy and protection of consumers, Senator Bob Wieckowski (D-Fremont) introduced a bill to prohibit selling the data to third parties and using it for advertising. On June 21 the Assembly Privacy and Consumer Protection Committee approved SB 346 with bipartisan support. The measure now heads to the state Assembly Appropriations Committee for consideration.

“Many Californians spend an enormous amount of time in their vehicles,” Wieckowski said. “They are with their families, their kids, their friends. They are commuting to work, running errands and going shopping. As they are driving on these trips, these cameras can record sensitive data allowing private companies to build detailed composites of our habits and preferences that can then be used for advertising and marketing purposes. Consumers should have more say over how their information is used and SB 346 will give it to them.”

A report by Research and Markets estimates that the global multi-billion-dollar automotive camera market will grow annually by 17.5%. In addition, some analysts expect the sale of this data to be worth more than $750 billion by 2030.

“Consumers should be put in the driver’s seat in terms of controlling their own data from cameras pointing inside their cars, and SB 346 does just that,” said Robert Herrell, Executive Director of the Consumer Federation of California, sponsor of the bill. “With the rapid growth of these in-cabin cameras California should lead the way in enhancing consumer privacy protections inside your car.”

Wieckowski represents the 10th District in the State Senate. Constituents who need information or assistance on state issues can call the senator’s district office at (510) 794-3900 or send an email to https://sd10.senate.ca.gov/contact/email.

Alameda County Sheriff’s Office

Submitted by Lieutenant Tya M. Modeste

Thursday, June 23

At about 12:55 a.m. deputies responded to the 400 block of Lupine Way in unincorporated Hayward to investigate a report about two suspects stripping parts from a white Dodge Charger Hellcat. Upon arrival deputies spotted a man running northbound on Lupine Way, a second suspect who was in the driver’s seat of a gray Dodge Charger Hellcat, revved the engine and then attempted to run over deputies.

The suspect, later identified by the Sheriff’s Office as Zakhari Gordon, 20, momentarily knocked down and pinned one of the deputies between his patrol vehicle and the suspect vehicle. Gorden then drove directly at a second deputy, colliding with the deputy’s vehicle and also knocking him down. Both deputies fired their service weapons at Gordon to stop the assault.

Gordon sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the shoulder as he attempted to flee. He was apprehended and taken to a hospital for treatment before being booked into Santa Rita Jail. It was later determined that both Dodge Chargers were stolen from two different Bay Area dealerships. Gordon faces numerous felony charges. An investigation is ongoing and deputies are still seeking the second suspect. Anyone with information is asked to call (510) 667-7721.

BART Police Log

Submitted by Les Mensinger and BART PD

Saturday, June 18

At 7:08 p.m. a woman identified by police as Michelle Callaway, 43, and a man identified by police as Erik Berenboim, 42, both of San Francisco, were detained at Bay Fair station in San Leandro on suspicion of fare evasion. A record check showed outstanding warrants for both. They were arrested and booked into Santa Rita Jail.

Sunday, June 19

At 7:43 p.m. a man identified by police as Max Gunn, 30, of Livermore was arrested at Castro Valley station on suspicion of possessing burglary tools and a billy club, along with an outstanding warrant. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

Monday, June 20

At 1:07 a.m. a man identified by police as Marcus Sims, 53, of Oakland was arrested at Bay Fair station in San Leandro on suspicion of possessing drug paraphernalia and obstructing an officer. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

Wednesday, June 22

At 11:15 p.m. a man identified by police as Martin Umanzor, 25, of Fremont was arrested at Bay Fair station in San Leandro on suspicion of public intoxication, possession of a dirk or dagger and probation violation. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

Fremont Police Log

Submitted by Monica Leon, Fremont PD

Sunday, June 12

At about 12:05 p.m. a robbery occurred at the Kwik and Convenient Market, 3157 Walnut Ave. when a store clerk was physically assaulted by a male suspect after he was confronted about stealing. The clerk was able to get outside of the store and lock the suspect inside until officers arrived. A suspect, identified by police as Charles Sona, 50, was arrested.

At about 8:33 p.m. officers responded to a report about a vehicle stolen from the Hyatt Place Hotel, 45976 Warm Springs Blvd. The owner was able to track the vehicle’s location using GPS. Officers found the vehicle in the parking lot with a man inside. When the man exited the vehicle, he tried to flee on foot, but was quickly apprehended by officers. The suspect, identified by polices as Robert Robles, 42, of Fremont was arrested on suspicion of auto theft.

At about 9:33 p.m. officers responded to a report about a robbery at Ross, 4112 Fremont Hub. A male suspect took items from the store and brandished a knife as he fled. Officers located the uncooperative suspect, later identified by police as David Morrill, 43, and arrested him.

Monday, June 13

At about 4:17 a.m. a man reportedly used a shopping cart to shatter the windows of several businesses in the 39000 block of Fremont Blvd. in central Fremont. The man, later identified by police as Anthony Pablo, 23, was still at the scene when officers arrived. He was arrested on suspicion of felony vandalism.

Friday, June 17

At about 10:09 p.m. officers responded to calls about a person in a vehicle shooting into another vehicle at the intersection of Fremont Boulevard and Mowry Avenue in central Fremont. Arriving officers found a vehicle in the center median of the intersection with an adult male in the driver’s seat suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite emergency medical aid, the man died at the scene. Detectives are working to identify suspects and determine what led to the shooting. A vehicle of interest is described as a dark-colored older 4-door, possibly Mercedes sedan. Anyone who may have witnessed the shooting, or have video surveillance footage of it is asked to asked to call Detective Ralph Meredith at (510) 790-6933 or send an email to via email to [email protected]. Anonymous tips can be sent online to https://local.nixle.com/tip/alert/5788118 or via text by typing TIP FREMONTPD followed by a short message to 888777.

Hayward Police Log

Submitted by Hayward PD

Saturday, June 18

At about 11:00 a.m. an adult male was assaulted, forced to the ground and robbed at Southland Mall by a suspect that may have been armed with a knife. The suspect fled the scene. During the police investigation on June 20, cell phone video of the incident surfaced that showed the suspect. Anyone with information or witnessed the incident is asked to call the Robbery Unit at (510) 293-7176.

Police welcome new K-9 recruit

Submitted by Union City Police Department

Officials from Union City Police Department (UCPD) recently welcomed a new recruit to their ranks, K-9 Officer Willem. Along with his handler, Officer Andrew Moya, Willem completed a rigorous two-month training program focusing on detection techniques and police patrol functions.

The training was provided by D-TAK K9, a northern California organization that specializes in patrol and detection K-9 training for law enforcement agencies. UCPD officials say that Willem is now ready to hit the streets to serve the community.

San Leandro Police Log

Submitted by San Leandro PD

Wednesday, June 22

At about 9:15 p.m. officers responded to a report about a catalytic convertor theft in progress in the area of Pershing Drive and Stoakes Avenue. Upon arrival, officers spotted the suspect in action, but he quickly fled on foot and escaped. However, an officer found the suspect’s vehicle nearby with a man and a loaded firearm inside. The man, identified by police as Jesse Cortez, 40, of Hayward was arrested and faces theft and firearm charges.

Thursday, June 23

At 3:45 a.m. officers responded to another report about a catalytic convertor theft in progress on the 2100 block of Bancroft Ave. When officers arrived, two suspect vehicles quickly sped away. Police used a tire deflation device to stop one of the vehicles, prompting a suspect to exit the vehicle and run away. Officers located the suspect, later identified by police as James Armstrong, 25, and arrested him on grand theft and stolen property charges. The second suspect vehicle was found abandoned on the I-238 onramp from Hesperian Boulevard. Officers located three stolen catalytic convertors inside the abandoned vehicle.

San Diego Zoo welcomes first aardvark birth in years

Associated Press

SAN DIEGO (AP), June 16 – An aardvark cub born at the San Diego Zoo is doing well and developing quickly, according to wildlife specialists.

The female cub was born May 10 and will nurse from her mother, Zola, for about six months, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance said this week in announcing the zoo’s first aardvark birth in nearly four decades.

“She is very active, and was using her sharp claws to dig like an adult aardvark, just hours after her birth,” lead wildlife care specialist Cari Inserra said in the statement.

The long-eared, hairless cub has tripled her birth weight in just five weeks.

She does not have a name yet, and will remain out of view of zoo visitors for about two months as she bonds with her mother.

“We can’t wait until we are able to introduce the cub to our Zoo guests, helping them learn more about this remarkable species,” Inserra said.

Aardvarks are native to sub-Saharan Africa. They have strong front legs and long claws adapted to digging burrows where they spend daylight hours until emerging in evenings to use their long, sticky tongues to slurp up ants and termites.

Former Tesla worker rejects $15 million award in racism case

AP Wire Service

Jun 22

A Black former Tesla worker who said he was harassed and faced with “daily racist epithets,” including the “N-word,” while working at the company’s Fremont, California, plant has rejected a substantially reduced award of $15 million in his lawsuit.

Owen Diaz, who worked at the Tesla plant in 2015 and 2016 as a contracted elevator operator before quitting, was originally awarded $6.9 million in damages for emotional distress and $130 million in punitive damages in the case.

A judge slashed that by nearly 90% to $15 million, which Diaz turned down, according to a court filing. Diaz’s rejection of the award could mean a new trial in the case.

Diaz had alleged that employees drew swastikas and left racist graffiti and drawings around the plant and that supervisors failed to stop the abuse.

A representative for Tesla could not immediately be reached for comment Wednesday night.

IAD062822

CONTINUING EVENTS:

Monday – Friday, June 22 – July 22 (dark 7/4 -7/8)

Words for Lunch

11 a.m. – 12 noon

Lunch and reading activities

Hayward Public Library, Heritage Plaza

888 C St., Hayward

[email protected]

Monday and Wednesday, June 22 – July 22 (dark 7/4 – 7/8)

Words for Lunch

11 a.m. – 12 noon

Lunch and reading activities

Mia’s Dream Come True All Abilities Playground

2837
7 Huntwood Ave., Hayward

[email protected]

Wednesdays

San Lorenzo Street Eats

5 p.m. – 9 pm.

1062 Grant Ave., San Lorenzo

www.thefoodtruckmafia.com

Thursdays

Newark Street Eats

5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

6430 Thornton Ave., Newark

www.thefoodtruckmafia.com

First Thursdays

Plethos Comedy Lab $

8 p.m.

Ever-changing lineup of Bay Area comics (18+)

Castro Valley Marketplace Lab 200

3295 Castro Valley Blvd, Castro Valley

https://plethos.org/

Tickets: $10

Fridays

Fremont Street Eats

5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont

www.thefoodtruckmafia.com

First Fridays at Chabot Space $

6 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Hands-on activities, workshops and performances

Chabot Space and Science Center

10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland

https://chabotspace.org/

$15 adults, $10 seniors/kids, $5 members

Third Saturdays

Investigating Space $

11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Discuss exploring space with researchers and scientists

(Included with admission)

Chabot Space and Science Center

10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland

https://chabotspace.org/

Saturdays, July 2 – August 27

Bubbleworks

Upbeat pop music and bubble machines

2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

4 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Courtyard near Old Navy

39281 Fremont Hub

UPCOMING

Tuesday, June 28

Redlining & Housing Discrimination

6 p.m.

New historical exhibit looking at systemic racism

San Leandro Library

300 Estudillo Ave, San Leandro

www.sanleandro.org

Wednesday, June 29

Castro Valley Marketplace Art Walk

5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Experience the best of the local art community

Castro Valley Marketplace

3295 Castro Valley Blvd, Castro Valley

www.castrovalleymarketplace.com

Wednesday, June 29

Milpitas Virtual Community Workshop R

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Help shape the future of the Milpitas Gateway-Main Street area

Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/Milpitas_Workshop_Registration

(408) 586-3279

MilpitasMainStreet.org

Thursday, June 30

Patterson House Tours

11:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m.

Tour the Patterson House Museum

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

www.ebparks.org

(888) 327-2757

Thursday, June 30

Animal Feeding

3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Check for eggs and feed livestock

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

www.ebparks.org

(888) 327-2757

Thursday, June 30

Ride the Rails

10:20 a.m. – 2:55 p.m.

Travel through the eucalyptus groves

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

www.ebparks.org

(888) 327-2757

Thursday, June 30

James Henry Trio R

6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Outdoor concert featuring master percussionist

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

www.aclibrary.org

Wednesday, July 6

Fremont Art Association general meeting/demo artist

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Guest artist will demo her process of painting field of flowers

Via Zoom, link will be provided upon registration.

https://www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo

Thursday, July 7

Plethos Comedy Lab

8 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Stand-up comics from around the Bay

Lab 200 (Castro Valley Marketplace)

3295 Castro Valley Blvd, Castro Valley

https://plethos.org

Saturday, July 9

Fleetwood Mask $

7:30 p.m.

Fleetwood Mac cover band.

Food trucks from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Castro Valley Center for the Arts

19501 Redwood Road, Castro Valley

www.CVartsfoundation.org

Summer Outdoor Movie Nights & Concerts

Free Outdoor Movies

8 pm.

Bring picnic dinner, low-back chairs or blankets, flashlights

Saturday, July 22

Sing 2

Kennedy Park

19501 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward

Friday, August 19

Luca

Castro Valley Community Park

18988 Lake Chabot Rd., Castro Valley

Friday, September 10

Addams Family 2

Meek Estate Park

240 Hampton Rd., Hayward

HaywardRec.org

Classic Movies Under the Stars

Reserve tickets at www.milpitas.gov

$5 per person

Ocean’s Eleven

Friday, July 8

8 p.m.

Civic Center Plaza, Milpitas

Some Like It Hot

Friday, August 12

8 p.m.

Civic Center Plaza, Milpitas

Movie Night Out

Reserve tickets on www.milpitas.gov

$10 = up to 6 seats

The Jungle Cruise

Friday, July 15

8:30 p.m.

Cardoza Park

Sing 2

Friday, July 29

8:30 p.m.

Foothill Park, Milpitas

Summer Concerts

Dive in Movie: Luca

Friday, July 22

Doors Open: 7 p.m.

Showtime: 8 p.m.

Farrelly Pool

864 Dutton Ave., San Leandro

(510) 569-1245

www.sanleandro.org/377/Recreation-Human-Services

Tickets: $3 online, $6 at the door

Movies on the Lawn

June 17 – July 10

(No showings on Mondays/Tuesdays, except July 4)

6 p.m.

June 29 – Luca

June 30 – Sonic the Hedgehog

July 1 – Monsters, Inc.

July 2 – Dora and the Lost City of Gold

July 3 – Spirit Untamed

July 4 – The Incredibles

July 6 – Raya and the Last Dragon

July 7 – Tom & Jerry

July 8 – Wreck-It Ralph

July 9 – Rise of the Guardians

July 10 – Encanto

Concert Lawn

Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton

Home

Included with Fair admission

Tickets: $14-17

Parking: $14

Alameda County Fair Live Concerts

8 p.m.

Wednesday: June 29: Ezra Ray Hart

Thursday, June 30: Sheila E.

Friday, July 1: Everlast

Saturday, July 2: Blanco Brown

Sunday, July 3: BB King Experience

Wednesday, July 6: Gre
at White

Thursday, July 7: Blue Oyster Cult

Friday, July 8: ConFunkShun

Saturday, July 9: Bonfire (AC/DC Tribute)

Sunday, July 10: Banda Machos

Amphitheater

Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton

Home

Included with Fair admission

Tickets: $14-17

Parking: $14

Milpitas Summer Concert Series

Left University

Monday, July 4

6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Milpitas Sports Center

1325 E. Calaveras Blvd., Milpitas

The Cires

Friday, July 22

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Pinewood Park

Starlite Dr., & Lonetree Ct., Milpitas

Jordan T

Friday, August 5

6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Hall Park

La Honda Dr., Milpitas

Groovin’ at the Grove Free Summer Concerts

Fridays: July 8 – August 5

Gates open: 4 p.m.

Concert: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

July 8 – Isaiah

July 22 – Cisco Kid

August 5 – Servants

Shirley Sisk Grove

NewPark Mall, Newark

Bring a blanket or low-back chair

Info at: www.newark.org

Fremont Summer Concert Series

Thursdays, July 7 – August 11

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

July 7 – East Bay Mudd

July 14 – Briefcase Blues Brothers

July 21 – Almost Famous

July 28 – Big Bang Beat

August 4 – Jukebox Heroes

August 11 – Aja Vu

Central Park Performance Pavilion

40204 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont

More info: (510) 494-4300 or [email protected]

Pacific Commons Summer Concert Series

Fourth Fridays, June 24 – September 23

7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

July 22 – Gary Flores Trio (Latin jazz/salsa)

August 26 – TinMan (classic rock)

September 23 – Last One Picked (rock, blues, country)

Pacific Commons Shopping Center

Auto Mall Parkway at I-880, Fremont

(510) 770-9798

3 O’Clock Jump

Third Saturdays: July 16, August 20, September 17, October 15

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Big Band music in outdoor patio (no cover fee)

World Famous Turf Club

22519, Main St., Hayward

(510) 244-3449

www.worldfamousturfclubca.com

Hayward Municipal Band

Sunday, July 2

2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Enjoy professional music in a relaxed atmosphere

Tony Morelli Bandstand

Hayward Memorial Park

214176 Mission Blvd., Hayward

haywardmunicipalband.blogspot.com

Russell City Awareness Blues Series

Saturdays, June 4 – July 30

2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

July 2 – The West Coast Caravans of All Stars

July 9 – Michael Skinner & Final Touch Band

July 16 – Alvon Johnson Blues Band

July 23 – Salute to Russell City Blues Women

July 30 – West Coast Caravan of All Stars (closing festivities)

Heritage Plaza

888 C St., Hayward

Hayward City Hall Plaza

777 B St., Hayward

www.westcoastbluessociety.org

Hayward Oddfellows Summer Concerts

Sundays; 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

August 7 – 3 O’clock Jump

August 14 – Uncle Rico’s with The Hypnotones, Mike Meagher’s Music Machine, Brown & Lee, Alrighty Then, and Spirit Flute

August 21 – Gravity

August 28 – SweetSp0ts

September 11 – Hayward La Honda Music Camp

September 18 – Giant Spiders and 129

September 25 – East Bay Youth Orchestras and East Bay Symphonic Band

Hayward Memorial Park Outdoor Amphitheater

24176 Mission Blvd., Hayward

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Creating an Abstract Field of Flowers

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06-28-22 Articles

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