07-11-23 Articles

Celebrate the Arts- and Hayward Arts Council’s 40th!

Submitted by Winda I. Shimizu, Executive Director, HAC

Hayward Arts Council (HAC) invites you to attend its “40th Anniversary Exhibition Reception” in the Hayward City Hall Rotunda, on Friday, July 14. This event is open to the public. The John O’Lague Galleria will be open for viewing, showcasing 105 artworks until August 30. “Celebrating 40 Years of Art in the Bay Area” was the theme pursued by eighty Bay Area artists selected by Jurors Rachel Osajima and Amy Diaz-Infante Siqueiros.

The reception on Friday, July 14 will be a lively evening, with presentations for nineteen awards from Best in Show, Awards of Merit, and Honorable mentions to Eupha Thompson and Margaret Robbins Awards; Landeza catering; coffee by Snappy’s Café; and music by Ray Oducayen. Mayor Mark Salinas and Alameda County Supervisor District 2 Elisa Marquez will speak. Assemblymember Liz Ortega will present a proclamation in recognition of the work of Hayward Arts Council. A silent auction will include gift certificates to restaurants and activities, as well as beautiful art donated by local artists.

Proceeds will be used to support HAC exhibitions and programs. HAC maintains four galleries—John O’Lague Galleria in the City Hall, Chamber of Commerce offices, Hayward Area Senior Center, and Hayward Public Library galleries. HAC provides scholarships to local high school and college students, and collaborates with Hayward Unified School District (HUSD) Visual and Performing Arts Plan. HAC collaborates with many organizations – Sun Gallery, Hayward Area Historical Society, A.R.T., Inc., Rotary Club, Literacy Plus, and more.

Help keep the arts alive in the Hayward area by attending HAC’s 40th Anniversary Exhibition Reception!

HAC 40th Anniversary Exhibition Reception

Friday, Jul 14

5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Hayward City Hall Rotunda

Celebrating 40 Years of Art in the Bay Area

Until August 30

Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

John O’Lague Galleria

Hayward City Hall

777 B St., Hayward

(510) 538-2787

ha*@ha***************.org

www.haywardartscouncil.org

 

39 Strong: Little League winning inspiration

By Eric Donato

The Union City National Padres Little League team had an incredible run to the 2023 Tournament of Champions championship and District 45 Title, with an impressive undefeated record. Accolades go to both the talented players and great coaching. Coach Armando Hurtado, who has been coaching the champion Padres for eight years, proudly said, “I have a group of boys that had the same desire and passion to work hard and challenge each other daily.” The successful team owes a great deal to Coach Armando’s coaching philosophy of not just developing baseball players, but, as he puts it, “athletes that can play baseball.” He encourages his players to get involved in secondary sports, explaining, “You get great conditioning and strength from soccer; from football, you’re probably going to be a really good, strong player.” Coach Armando also wants to develop well-rounded baseball players. He said, “I tell them we’re gonna work at three positions, each kid.”

The start of the winning season was driven by the players wanting to break their successive second-place positions in the last two years. Coach Armando said it was heartbreaking for the players who had another perfect season last year, but lost the championship game. Their motivation paid off with a winning streak. However, unexpected sad news dampened the joy of a winning season: Teammate Leland Waterhouse was diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphoma and could not play the games leading to the championship.

Coach Armando described Leland: “I met him about two years ago. He was a kid I took a tremendous liking to. He was very positive, very happy. He had a general love for the game, but you can tell that he was a natural. He had an intelligence of it where you can tell he watches it, he plays it, he understands it.” Coach Armando added, “Leland was always smiling, always happy, always upbeat. He was tremendously supportive of his teammates, so I think it’s amazing that his teammates support him the same way.”

Padre teammate Caleb Degala-Burnett’s dad Michael Degala said of Leland, “He’s a totally outgoing kid. He’s kind of the cheerleader as well for the team. He gets things going and is a teammate that you can count on.” Leland’s teammate and Coach Armando’s son, Fro Hurtado, said, “[I’m] kind of sad. Like, I want him to be there to enjoy the moment.” Teammate and fellow Itliong-Vera Cruz Middle School (Union City) student Caleb said, “It kind of hurt because he’s the main person on our team. We need him in the infield. We need [him] as the first baseman, so that really hurt us.” He added, “During breaks, we said his name, and we put his number on the mound.”

Despite Leland’s inability to play for health reasons, he continued to join the practice and games. Coach Armando said, “We need him to compete.” Coach Armando and parent Michael Degala described the collective team, parents, and supporters as a tight extended family. As with any close family, when problems arise, the entire family rallies around. The team was extra motivated with every game since Leland had to take a break from active playing. Coach Armando said, “We had a very tough bracket with not a lot of rest days, and it was going to take all of us to win it, including Leland.”

39 is Leland’s jersey number, and “39 Strong” had been the rallying cry, with each remaining game leading to the championship. “39 Strong” badges were made by parents and were sewn on uniforms; similar wristbands, bracelets, and stickers were made. Players wrote the words on the pitching mound at every game. Parent Michael Degala said, “We knew the fight he had coming up.”

Degala added, “On the day of the championship game, we made our banners. [Leland] couldn’t make it, but his grandparents came out. When they called his name, they walked out for the ceremonial; when the entire roster [was presented], we had his parents walk out, and his grandparents came out and took pictures with the flags…so that he had a representative in there and we had them in the team picture with us.”

Coach Armando said, “He really inspired the boys. There were a couple of innings when these boys had tough moments. They would lead on three, and we expect him to fight and give us full effort. So I told the boys, I expect you guys to do the same for him on the field. He’s part of this team, whether he’s on the field or he is not on there. It always takes all of us.” The announcers at the pregame ceremony would announce his name before the games, and the audience would cheer loudly with a standing ovation. Other little leagues heard of Leland Waterhouse and were reaching out about how they could help. Coach Armando said, “He not only motivated our kids on our team, but it’s motivated other little leagues to help contribute. It’s pulled our parents a lot closer together.”

You can support Leland Waterhouse by visiting the following websites and attending the 49ers game fundraising event.

Links:

caringbridge.org/visit/lelandwaterhouse

https://mealtrain.com/kwrqlr

San Francisco 49ers vs. Denver Broncos Game Fundraiser

Saturday, Aug 19

Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara

Contact Chris Gomez at (510) 688-4836 or email cg*******@ho*****.com for tickets

Try out San Leandro restaurants!

Submitted by San Leandro Chamber of Commerce

From July 16 to 22, San Leandro Chamber of Commerce will be supporting local small businesses with the first “San Leandro Restaurant Week.” Different restaurants will be offering discounts and special
menu options, representing the area’s diverse food culture.

Restaurants include local breweries and coffee houses, dessert and snack places, and a variety of cuisines. Danny Murry’s Irish Pub, Horatio’s, Poke Kitchen, Moussaka Mediterranean Kitchen, Pistahan Filipino Restaurant, and Tsuru Sushi are just a few of those joining in. An interactive map is available on the San Leandro Chamber website.

Participants have the choice of simply checking out new restaurants that pique their interest, or entering a competition with the chance of having part or all of their week’s spending covered. To do so, download the Goosechase app, check in and share your experience at different participating restaurants throughout the week, and accumulate points.

San Leandro Restaurant Week

Sunday, Jul 16 – Saturday, Jul 22

Various locations

www.sanleandrochamber.com

Fire it up: Grilling weather is here!

By John Schinkel

While weather around here seems to change at the drop of a hat, the past few weeks have been perfect weather to be outside spending time by the grill, with a beverage of choice in hand, surrounded by friends and family. In addition to being an excellent, though sometimes weather-prohibitive method of cooking, grilling has become an American pastime for socializing, as well as showing off one’s skills.

It’s safe to say that most people can be pleased with something off the summer grill, including our vegetarian and vegan friends. Vegetables, meats, and even certain non-melty cheeses such as Halloumi (which should really be more popular) take on incredible flavors when cooked over an open heat source.

The most common mistake I see at summer barbecues is when it comes to adding sauce, specifically barbecue sauce. BBQ chicken drenched in sauce is one of my very favorite things, but it is important to note that most sauces that we grill with are loaded with sugar. When introduced to too much heat, sugar burns. Add sauce to your meats just before removing them from the heat; otherwise, you risk unpleasant-tasting burnt bits that are often mistaken for grill marks.

Another common mistake is not cleaning the grill grates properly. Now, some believe that bits left behind on a grate equate to more flavor, but I have to disagree. Whether you are using a gas, electric, or charcoal grill, you need to allow time for the grill to thoroughly heat up. During this process, whatever is on the grates will burn. Instead, once the grill is hot, scrub the grates with a grill brush. Then, using a paper towel on the tip of a pair of tongs with a small amount of canola or vegetable oil, gently brush the grates. This provides a little bit of flavor and natural non-stick to the surface.

Vegetables, specifically Mexican Gray Squash and Broccolini, make for amazing grilling. It’s almost as if they want to be grilled, as each takes on incredible new flavors. For squash, I cut them lengthwise and rub a very small amount of olive oil on each side, plus a little salt and pepper. For broccolini, I do the same without cutting. Place them directly on the grill, or on the upper rack if you have one, and cook until tender. The squash will take on beautiful grill marks, and the broccolini will have depth to its color, with the stocks taking on char marks and the outermost fronds gaining a bit of brown. Healthy, delicious, simple… does it get any better?

In this country, we love our burgers, which are a classic summer barbecue offering. I came up with a burger patty recipe derived from something I found online some time back. It’s a little unique in flavor, but still focuses on the flavors provided by the beef itself. This recipe certainly does not have to be made using beef: Ground turkey or even Beyond Meat would work just fine. Be sure, however, to adjust cooking time/temperature as recommended by the packaging. Enjoy!

All-American Burger Patties

Yield: 6 patties

Level: easy

2 lbs ground beef, 80/20 (can substitute ground turkey/ground beef alternative, follow cooking instructions on package)

½ cup plain breadcrumbs

1 large egg

2 tbsp worcestershire sauce

Splash of milk (about 2 tbsp)

1 tsp kosher salt

⅔ cup onion, diced fine

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp black pepper (coarse)

Thick-sliced pepper jack cheese (optional)

1. Mix all ingredients except the beef and cheese in a large bowl.
2. Once thoroughly mixed, add beef and work mixture in. Stop once evenly combined. Overmixing will create too dense of a texture. Leave the mixture in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to an hour, then form patties, about ⅓ lb each.
3. Grill the patties over medium-high heat, only flipping once. This will ensure beautiful grill marks and a juicy, tender patty. This should take about 4-5 minutes on each side, but check for doneness using a thermometer (or, if you are experienced, the “poke” method).
4. Add cheese about a minute before removing from the heat. Patties should be cooked to medium, or about 145 degrees.
5. Serve on a sturdy bun, and top with fixings of your choice!

John Schinkel is a lifelong Fremont resident who completed his culinary education at Laney College in Oakland. He specializes in, and has a passion for French, Italian, and modern American cuisines. Professionally, he works in nonprofit development. His spare time is spent as President of the Rotary Club of Mission San Jose, Fremont Elks Lodge 2121, and the Washington Hospital Healthcare Foundation. John resides in Niles with his fiancé, Marty.

Pacific Commons to host online back-to-school giveaways

Submitted by Carmen Herlihy

Pacific Commons is celebrating the new school year with back-to-school giveaways for students and teachers. To enter to win one of two back-to-school backpacks filled with school supplies and gift cards to Pacific Commons, shoppers can visit @shoppacificcommons on Instagram and comment on the back-to-school giveaway post. Additionally, participants can nominate a teacher for a chance to win a $200 gift card package to Pacific Commons at www.pacificcommons.com.

The contest runs from July 17 to August 6. Winners of the backpacks will be randomly selected and announced via the center’s Instagram feed on or around August 8. The winner of the teacher’s gift card package will be randomly selected and notified via email on August 9.

You must be 18 or older and a California resident to enter and win. The winner must respond within 48 hours or their prize will be forfeited and another winner selected. No purchase is necessary. This giveaway is not sponsored or endorsed by Facebook or Instagram. To learn more, visit www.pacificcommons.com.

Back-to-school giveaway

July 17 – August 6

Backpack winners announced on Instagram August 8

Gift card winner notified via email on August 9

Instagram: @shoppacificcommons

www.pacif
iccommons.com

Preventing Child Abuse, One Story at a Time

By Connie Cheung

In 2021, Krystaelynne Sanders Diggs’ life changed when she learned that a child in her family had been sexually abused. “I fell into a deep depression and took a year off work,” she explained, to become the primary caregiver to the child and start a journey of healing. Diggs was haunted by questions like whether she missed warning signs or could have done anything differently to prevent the trauma.

A first-generation college graduate of Cal State University East Bay, Diggs pursued her interests in public service by studying subjects like political science and criminal justice. After navigating the distressing period with her family two years ago, she was inspired to become an advocate for more awareness and education about child sexual abuse. Stories can naturally facilitate conversations with young children, and Diggs wanted to write a picture book that was educational without being frightening.

“I didn’t want to scare children,” Diggs said, “but rather gently introduce to them that inappropriate or uncomfortable touches can exist.”

While many organizations offer resources in reaction to abusive circumstances, it can feel uncomfortable to preemptively talk to young children about the concepts of non-consensual touch. Diggs’ book “Where Hands Go: An Introduction to Safe and Unsafe Touch” strikes a balance between comforting scenes and actionable advice that young readers can easily remember.

The story is set in the home of a young girl and her mother, who prepare dinner together and go through their nighttime rituals: play time, a bubble bath, then tucking into bed. During the bath, the child learns a poem describing the differences between touches like a pat on the head or a hug from mom, as opposed to how she should react to other kinds of touches “when hands begin to stray.” The book sold so many copies that Diggs has now published an entire series devoted to the topic, including “Body Safety Rules” and “The Power of No.”

Child abuse is a pervasive and urgent issue. In 2020, the Department of Health and Safety estimated that over 600,000 minors were abused in the United States. According to the CDC, girls and children under the age of four are particularly vulnerable to victimization.

As an African-American author, Diggs hoped to destigmatize the subject and create work that was free of the implicit bias she saw too commonly in school and in the media. “Few books feature people of color as the main character of a book, and even fewer have a child of color on the cover,” she said.

Given the challenges in the publishing industry like a lack of diversity and an increasingly political climate of book bans and censorship, Diggs wanted to make her writings accessible by self-publishing, and chose not to pursue more traditional routes of publication. After seeing the overwhelmingly positive reception of her first book, she found an opportunity to expand her expertise and write stories that address other common challenges for children, like secret-keeping or understanding the importance of confiding in trusted adults.

This journey has been a winding one for Diggs, who experienced hardships as a child, including bouts of homelessness and hunger. Her determination to overcome the challenging circumstances of her early years now translates to an inspiring effort to improve the lives of children all over the country. Today, Diggs is not only a passionate author and speaker, but also a mentor to other aspiring authors. With her message and work, she strives to prevent child sexual abuse and help people communicate with kids in ways that feel authentic and helpful.

“Even though the topic is very difficult to talk about, it’s important to bring to light,” she said.

Krystaelynne Sanders Diggs

https://ksdiggs.com/

 

 

2023 Comedy in the Plaza

Submitted by San Leandro Public Library

In partnership with the City of San Leandro and San Leandro Arts, Culture and Library Commission, award-winning actor, playwright, comedian, and talk show host Brian Copeland is producing, emceeing, and hosting the third annual Comedy in the Plaza, a free public event the evening is July 15. The event features some of Copeland’s favorite comedians including, Greg Proops (“Who’s Line is it Anyway”), Laurie Kilmartin (“The Conan O’Brien Show”), Joe Klocek (“Comedy Central”), Don Reed (“The Tonight Show”), Kate Robards (“Time Magazine”), Ronn Vigh (“VH1”), and Nicole Tran (“The Comedy Store”).

This event is recommended for ages 13 and up. Street parking is available; bring a blanket or low-back chair. Arrive early to secure a good spot.

Comedy in the Plaza

Saturday, Jul 15

5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

San Leandro Main Public Library

300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro

SanLeandro.org/ComedyinthePlaza

Children get Independence Day lesson in voting

Submitted by League of Women Voters

The League of Women Voters of Fremont, Newark & Union City (LWVFNUC) provided youngsters with a lesson in voting at the Tri-City Nonprofit Coalition’s 4th of July After-Party, held at Downtown Fremont Plaza. Children eagerly queued up to receive a ballot and enter a mock voting booth to cast their votes. Afterward, they turned in their ballots for tallying and received a sticker indicating that they had voted.

“We liked it. Thumbs up,” declared sisters Serena and Camellia Wagenet. Parents Veronica and Sean agreed. Veronica mentioned that her great grandmother had been part of the women’s suffragist movement that led to passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920. It was out of that movement that the League of Women Voters was born.

Charles and Xenia Swan, parents of four-year-old Zurielle, also liked the idea. Charles has lived in Fremont off-and-on since he was not much older than his daughter is now. He got a kick out of celebrating the Fremont’s Fourth with his family at the parade and after-party. With surprisingly little help from her parents, Zurielle made her choices, cast her ballot, and proudly wore her “I Voted Today” sticker.

The concept was the brainchild of League member Julie Dunkle, who is also the motivating force behind the LWVFNUC’s Youth Voter Movement. League co-president Dennis Godden designed and built the kid-sized polling place. “When we talked about kids voting, it got me thinking why not go all out with a voting booth? I looked at a few online for inspiration. It figures that the kids would see the booth and want to vote.”

And that’s just what happened. Throughout the event, kids pointed to the booth, pulled their parents over, and lined up for the opportunity to make their opinion heard. When the votes were tallied, 149 kids had voted on six different issues. The outcome of the election indicated that the young voters favored:

1. Swim parties offered as a fun summer activity by Fremont.
2. Naan offered as a lunch food at school.
3. Blue as the paint color if Fremont painted the library.
4. Making school safer as a way the principal could make their school better.
5. Homelessness as the issue the City of Fremont should spend more money on.
6. Ariel as the person who should be an honorary school board member.

Also part of the League’s exhibit were voter registration forms for parents, as well as information about how to find reliable voter information. Some of the fathers who stopped by with their kids were surprised to learn that membership in the League of Women Voters is open to both men and women. As a nonpartisan political organization, the League encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through e
ducation and advocacy.

League of Women Voters of Fremont, Newark & Union City

www.lwvfnuc.org.

Newark Mariachi Festival

Submitted by Edda Rivera

The community is invited to a FREE fun summer afternoon, enjoying the festive sounds of local mariachi bands during our 9th annual “Newark Mariachi Festival.” The event will be held in the beautiful Shirley Sisk Grove, located off NewPark Mall Road across from Jack’s Restaurant.

This year’s festival will highlight the talents of three local mariachi bands: Mariachi Tradición Mexicana, Mariachi San Carlos, Mariachi Regional Magda. All three bands feature accomplished performers with years of musical experience.

In addition, the performance from Newark Elementary Schools Children’s Ballet Folklorico dancers, Ballet Costa de Oro, and Activities for kids.

Festival gates will open at 11 a.m. for picnicking, so arrive early for the best spots. City of Newark Council Member Sucy Collazo will perform as Master of Ceremonies during the Mariachi Festival.

For more information, contact Edda Rivera at ed***@ne****.org or (510) 578-4346.

9th Annual Newark Mariachi Festival

Sunday, Jul 16

1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Shirley Sisk Grove

NewPark Mall Rd., Newark

Train to be a docent at Music for Minors II

Submitted by Music for Minors II

Help provide free music education in local schools by training to be a Music for Minors II (MFMII) docent. Orientation will be on Wednesday, September 13. Training will take place over 11 free in-person and online sessions. Ongoing support will be available for docents through mentors and free lesson plans. Trained docents will give one 30-minute lesson per week in a child’s classroom.

MFMII Docent Training

Orientation

Wednesday, Sept 13

9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

In-Person Training

Mondays, starting Sept 18

9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Corpus Christi Catholic Church Hall

37891 Second St., Fremont

Online Training

Wednesdays, starting Sept 20

7:00 p.m. – 9:15 p.m.

(510) 733-1189

www.musicforminors2.org

Pixie earns her title!

Submitted by City of Fremont

Pixie, Human Services’ Therapy Dog, earned her AKC Therapy Dog Advanced title (100 therapy dog visits), which consisted mainly of Read To A Dog visits at various libraries all over Contra Costa County and recently at Fremont Main Library.

Julie Sakai, Case Manager with Aging and Family Services and Pixie’s handler, says, “It’s pure magic to witness the kid/dog bond encouraging literacy. In addition to these volunteer visits, she loves to come to work to see all her clients and staff pals!”

Congratulations Pixie! We’re proud to have you as part of the team!

Learn how to recycle right

Submitted by Republic Services

Recycling properly keeps our environment clean, cuts down on pollution, conserves natural resources and benefits our economy. It is important we all do our part and become better recyclers by following these simple guidelines:

Know what is accepted in the curbside recycling and compost program. Only place acceptable items in the recycling and compost cart.

Paper and Cardboard – Recycle clean and dry cardboard, newspaper, magazines, office paper and junk mail. Flatten cardboard boxes to make room for other materials in the cart. Multi-layered paper materials that are lined with plastic and/or aluminum foil such as soup, juice and dairy cartons should be placed in the landfill cart. Grease- and food-soiled paper towels and pizza boxes should be placed in the compost cart.

Metal Cans and Aluminum Trays – Before you recycle metal beverage/food cans and aluminum foil/trays, be sure these are empty and free of food and grease/oil. Wipe these clean and remove labels.

Plastic Containers – Recycle all rigid plastic containers labeled with numbers 1 and 2 (look for this at the bottom of the container). These include water and condiment bottles, milk jugs, shampoo bottles, and detergent containers. Keep lids on the plastic containers and be sure the containers are clean, empty, and dry. Flimsy plastics such as plastic wrappers and bags should be reused if possible or placed in the landfill cart. Single-use plastic utensils and plastic containers labeled #3-7 should be reused if possible or placed in the landfill cart.

Keep recyclables empty, clean, and dry. Empty and rinse/wipe food residue and liquids from recyclable containers so everything in the recycle cart can be recycled into its highest and best use.

Keep recyclables loose and do not place items in a bag prior to placing them in the recycle cart as these bags can clog up sorting equipment.

It is illegal to place household hazardous waste (HHW) in any recycle, compost, or landfill bin/cart. HHW materials such as pesticides, fluorescent lamps, medications, paints, and treated wood require careful disposal by a certified facility. Safely and conveniently dispose of HHW for free at an Alameda County HHW Drop-off Facility or County-sponsored events throughout the year. To find drop-off facility locations and for more information, call (800) 606-6606 or visit www.StopWaste.org/HHW.

Learn more about what is accepted in the curbside collection program and find education resources and publications by visiting UnionCityRecycles.org.

Traffic Advisory

Submitted by City of Union City

Caltrans has scheduled to close State Route 84, also known as Niles Canyon Road, in both directions from Palomares Road in Fremont to Main Street in Sunol for the entire weekend of July 14-17, for work on the Alameda Creek Bridge.

Niles Canyon Road will be completely closed in both directions beginning at 8 p.m. on Friday, July 14, and will be reopened to traffic on Monday at 5 a.m., July 17. In the case of unanticipated developments, the closure will be rescheduled and the public will be notified.

Portable changeable message signs will be placed prior to closure advising motorists of this closure and will stay in effect during the closure.

During this closure, crews will work around the clock to connect the existing roadway with the new roadway leading to the new Alameda Creek Bridge.

Detours:

• Traffic from Palomares Road

Via: WB Rte 84 (Niles Canyon Rd); SB Rte 238 (Mission Blvd); On-Ramp to NB Rte 680; NB Rte 680 Off-Ramp to EB Rte 84

• Traffic from SB Rte 238 (Mission Blvd)

Via: Continue SB Rte 238; On-Ramp to NB Rte 680; NB Rte 680 Off-Ramp to EB Rte 84

• Traffic from Sunol and Pleasanton Sunol Rd

Via: EB Rte 84 (Niles Canyon Rd); On-Ramp to SB Rte 680; SB Rte 680; Off-Ramp to NB Rte 238 (Mission Blvd); NB Rte 238 to WB Rte 84

• Traffic from SB Rte 680 and WB Rte 84

Via: Continue SB Rte 680; Off-Ramp to NB Rte 238 (Mission Blvd)

Splash Day

Submitted by H.A.R.D.

Cool down with H.A.R.D. before summer ends! Inflatable water slides, water games, ice ‘scream,’ and tons of fun in the sun. Don’t forget to bring your sun block and towel. All participants must register at haywardrec.org to attend this free event. Intended for ages 13-17.

Splash Day

Saturday, Aug 5

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Meek Park

248 Hampton Dr., Hayward

(510) 881-6700

www.haywardrec.org/register

class #25449

A Summer Fest at Shinn

Submitted by Janet Barton

On July 16, bring your picnic and blanket to lunch under the shade of the historic trees at Shinn Historical Park & Arboretum. We are celebrating two park anniver
saries. Forty years ago, the Japanese garden was planted and dedicated. Twenty years ago, the Shinn House Museum opened with displays about the history of the Shinn family.

The day starts off at 10 a.m. with a plant fundraiser by Friends of Heirloom Flowers. The garden club has taken care of the gardens around the historic 1876 Shinn house for 29 years. At 11:30 a.m., a greeting and the Wadaiko Newark Taiko will open the afternoon activities. Celebratory cake will follow. At 1 p.m. Shinn House will open for tours (continuing until the event ends at 4 p.m.).

A little on the Kato Japanese Garden:

Many visitors simply enjoy the serene beauty of the garden. However, they may not know that the garden was built to honor the Japanese who have lived in Southern Alameda County and who helped build the community. A memorial plaque to Koomei George Kato, is adorned with a strawberry and an inscription that says, “A kind, gentle man…a special friend. He believed in making the world a little better.” Mr. Kato grew and sold the sweetest strawberries at the produce stand at Mission and Stevenson.

The garden was designed by well-known landscape architect Mai Kitazawa Arbegast. It was dedicated 40 years ago in 1983. It was a community effort by the friends and family of George Kato with help from the City of Fremont. Friends and family took care of the garden for many years. Seventeen years ago, the Merritt College Aesthetic Pruning students took over the specialized care of the pines, maples, and cherry trees. The Friends of Heirloom Flowers take care of the smaller plants and the weeds.

On the Shinn House Museum and Archives:

James and Lucy Shinn arrived in 1856 from Texas with two young children. They had a plant nursery in the 1870s – 1880s, which is why there are so many old and interesting trees planted in the park. After that the family focused on fruit ranching until the 1950s. Visit the house and museum to find out more about the children who grew up there.

Twenty years ago, the Shinn family built the museum and archives behind the house. This is the gathering place for the volunteers of the Mission Peak Heritage Foundation who manage the house activities—tours, events, meetings, wreath making, teas, research, clothing conservation, and archives.

Enjoy the house and gardens, plant sale, as well as refreshments and Taiko performance at this special summer event at Shinn House.

Summer Fest at Shinn & Plant Sale

Sunday, Jul 16

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Welcome and Taiko drumming at 11:30 a.m.

Cake and refreshments after Taiko

Shinn House Tours: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Shinn Historical Park & Arboretum

1251 Peralta Blvd., Fremont

sites.google.com/view/shinn-historical-park

TCNPC Celebrated July 4th and Local Nonprofits!

Submitted by Tina Fernandez Steckler

Photo by Scott Capen

Tri-City Nonprofit Coalition (TCNPC) hosted its 2nd Annual July 4th Parade After-Party at Fremont’s Downtown Event Center on Tuesday, July 4, 2023. Thanks to a small army of volunteers; event sponsors Alameda County Supervisor David Haubert (District 1), Fremont Chamber of Commerce, Collective Discovery, Alameda County Supervisor Elisa Marquest (District 2), Bay Philharmonic, Citizens for a Better Community; and media sponsor Tri-City Voice, the after-party was a resounding success!

Scores of community members attended, many of whom had walked a few blocks from the parade route on Paseo Padre Parkway to Fremont’s beautiful Downtown Event Center and Plaza. Once on site they enjoyed nonprofit exhibits and live entertainment from groups including Dream Achievers, Bay Philharmonic, and Ohlone College Summerfest. Food Mafia food trucks provided delicious food and beverages, TCNPC distributed free water, and attendees line danced thanks to DJ Mike of Fremont’s Music Plus Events.

Twenty-seven nonprofits representing a wide range of causes participated, including The Candle Lighters, SAVE, League of Women Voters, HERS Breast Cancer Foundation, Fremont Education Foundation, Mission Peak Conservancy, Citizens for a Better Community, Fremont for Everyone, Room Redux, Ohlone Humane Society, Olive Hyde Art Guild, and Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum. For a complete list of participating nonprofits, visit https://tcnpc.org/4th-of-july-parade-after-party/.

The nonprofits provided free giveaways and hands-on activities such as cornhusk dollmaking at the Washington Township Museum of Local History booth and creating simple musical instruments made from everyday household items at the Music for Minors II booth.

The parade after party is TCNPC’s signature event and is designed to highlight the missions, programs, events, and support needs of Fremont, Union City, and Newark nonprofit organizations. Organizers Kathy Kimberlin, Lisa Stambaugh, and Tina Fernandez Steckler are determined to make this lively and impactful gathering an annual event, so be sure to save the date for next year! If you would like to find out more, including ways you can support this event in 2024, contact TCNPC at https://tcnpc.org/contact/ and be sure to check out TCNPC’s event photo gallery while you’re there, courtesy of local photographer Scott Capen.

Tri-City Nonprofit Coalition

tcnpc.org

Family Fun Day Series: Teddy Bear Picnic

Submitted by H.A.R.D.

Love animals? Bring your favorite stuffed animal, lunch, and a blanket to sit for a Teddy Bear Picnic. Get to learn more about the animals and meet our furry friends at Sulphur Creek Nature Center. Registration is $7 for Hayward residents, $10 for non-residents. The event is nonrefundable; all children must be accompanied by a guardian.

Teddy Bear Picnic

Saturday, Jul 15

12 noon – 1:30 p.m.

Sulphur Creek Nature Center

1801 D St., Hayward

(510) 881-6700

www.haywardrec.org/register

Registration: $7 – $10

Class #25546

Textile exhibit call for artists

Submitted by Olive Hyde Art Guild

Olive Hyde Art Guild is now accepting entries for the 53rd annual Textile Exhibit. Submit your textile artwork for the chance to be exhibited. All work must be ready to install. Shipping fees are the responsibility of the artists.

Submission Deadline: Tuesday, July 25

Submit the following to ol**************@fr*****.gov

• Up to five entries with the title, dimension, year, and medium listed. (Submissions may include any form of 2D and/or 3D artwork.)
• Digital images of artwork must be of high-quality resolution. Label file with your last name and title of the artwork.

Upon Acceptance:

• Accepted artists will be notified by Friday, July 28th through email.
• Submit $30 entry fee on Art Delivery Day: Sunday, August 6 from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
• Accepted artwork will also be exhibited on a virtual gallery platform.

Textile exhibit call for artists

Deadline: Tuesday, July 25

https://olivehydeartguild.org/

VA Mobile Medical Outreach Team to visit the Hayward Veterans Memorial Hall

Submitted by Hector M. Villaseñor

On Thursday, July 20, Hayward Public Library, and the American Legion Post 68 will host the VA Palo Alto Mobile Medical Outreach Team at the Hayward Veterans Memorial Hall. They will facilitate examinations, consultations, and referrals for veterans who are enrolled in the VA healthcare system onside. VA resource information will be available.

Veterans uncertain of their benefits eligibility are encouraged to visit, as requirements have changed, and VA health care may complement current medical coverage. VA representatives will also provide information or assistance with questions and enrollment for VA healthcare.

Veterans should bring military discharge papers (Form DD-214) and a list of current medications. For more in
formation or assistance obtaining proof of service documents prior to the event, contact the library’s information desk, (510) 881-7980, or email Hector Villaseñor at he***************@ha********.gov.

No appointment necessary: medical team and enrollment specialists will be on site.

The Hayward Public Library is part of the Veterans Connect @ the Library program, a statewide outreach to Veterans sponsored by the California State Library. Follow us on Instagram at @haywardlibrary and Facebook www.facebook.com/haywardlibrary.

VA Mobile Medical Outreach Team

Thursday, Jul 20

10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Hayward Veterans Memorial Hall

22737 Main St, Hayward

Youth ensembles perform at Jenny Lin Foundation free concert

Submitted by Jenny Lin Foundation

With a mission to promote youth music education and child safety, Castro Valley-based Jenny Lin Foundation presents a free music program for the 29th year this summer to benefit over 200 middle and high school musicians across the Bay Area.

This year the five-week rehearsals will culminate in a large-scale community event on Saturday, July 15, at Chabot College, Hayward. All are invited to attend the concert “Rainbows After Rain.” Come out to support our hardworking young people who perform in Band, Orchestra & Choir as well as their talented music directors.

Band Director Travis Nasatir has been playing music on trumpet, his primary instrument, for 30 years, and has participated in more than 50 musical theatre productions and dozens of ensembles across all genres of music. He is cofounder and Music Director of Mission Peak Wind Symphony.

Greg Conway has been a school music teacher for 18 years and recently completed his Master’s Degree in Instrumental Conducting at SJSU. He has directed the Band of Jenny Lin Summer Program since 2007, and now conducts the String Orchestra.

Choral Director Michael Strelo-Smith is an accomplished performer having finished season three of America’s Got Talent as one of the top 25 finalists. He maintains a private voice studio and strives to help students find their true authentic self through music-making with their voice.

Free tickets may be reserved here: https://beta.purplepass.com/events/256553-jenny-lin-summer-music-concert-jul-15th-2023.

Jenny Lin Summer Music Concert Co-sponsored by Chabot College

Saturday, Jul 15

6:30 p.m.

Reed L. Buffington Performing Arts Center, Chabot College

25555 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward

www.jennylinfoundation.org

Non-profit offers several coed youth volleyball programs

Submitted by Jennifer Walker 

The United States Youth Volleyball League (USYVL) is pleased to announce that registration is open for our 2023 Fall Leagues. These signature programs provide a fun, safe, and supervised environment for boys and girls to learn the ‘FUNdamentals’ of volleyball alongside the life skills of motivation, persistence, and teamwork.

Our eight-week fall league programs provide instruction to boys and girls ages 7 to 15 with curricula that engagingly teaches volleyball skills in a positive environment. The league sessions are twice per week beginning the second week of September and ending the first week of November. Practices and games operate in a non-competitive format and offer participants the development of coordination, confidence, self-esteem, and sportsmanship.

Teams fill quickly, so register early to reserve a spot for your child. Registering early also allows participants to register at a discount until August 1. The registration fee includes a uniform t-shirt and participation medal for each.

Find your local program at www.usyvl.org. For more information about the Fremont program, contact Je******@us***.org.

Youth Volleyball Programs Fremont Fall 2023

Wednesdays & Saturdays Sept 13 – Nov 4

Wednesdays 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Saturdays 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Central Park

1110 Stevenson Blvd. Fremont

(888) 988-7985

in**@us***.org

2023 BMW 330e xDrive Sedan: Three Things

By Michael Coates

Photos from BMW

When discussing a BMW, it’s never simply about the car. First, you also need to deal with the myth. BMW has created something beyond its car, a perception as the “Ultimate Driving Machine.” You can dispute that all you want, but it comes printed on the car’s official documentation. In the case of this month’s 3-Series, let’s just stipulate that the car lives up to the BMW heritage, while offering something a little different from the expected.

This month’s car is a BMW 330e xDrive sedan. To decode the BMW nomenclature, that means it’s a four-door compact sedan with all-wheel drive. And it’s a plug-in hybrid, meaning it carries both a gas engine and an electric motor with a small battery so it can run on electricity for a short stretch—in this 330e’s case, 20 miles.

The BMW 3-Series is the core BMW product, the essence of what BMW is all about, sporty sedans. It’s one of its best-selling models. Although the X5 midsize SUV leads the sales parade, the 3- and 4-Series compact sedans are right behind.

Choice Is King

Second, choice is one of first things you’ll notice with the 3-Series (and many other BMW models). Three district models—a gas-powered one, one that incorporates gas and electric power (our tester), and a performance version with a variety of more power engine versions (a hint of BMW’s true focus).

All of these models are available in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive (we drew the latter option). After choosing the basic package, the real choices start. Any paint other than basic black or white will cost extra. Several slick wheel options are available for the 19-inch rims on our model. Inside, you can pick your seating material and trim. Then packages start (some may be triggered by your preferred wheels and interior): Convenience, Premium, Driving Assistance, Parking Assistance, Dynamic Handling and Shadowline. That gives you a good hint of how you start with a car with a $46,900 base price and end up with an out-the-door price of $56,990. It is loaded with goodies, some of which are really beneficial; others might not make your must-have list.

One BMW with a Plug

Finally, this model is a plug-in hybrid. BMW is moving aggressively to electrify its lineup. It has three fully electric models and offers plug-in hybrid versions of several others (including the best-selling X5). The technology is sophisticated, and it works. We were able to drive locally on electric power and charge up overnight, leaving us with an average close to the 68 MPGe that the EPA says the 330e is capable of. If your commute is longer than 20 miles and/or you can’t charge at work or home, the savings will be hard to realize, and the non-plug-in version may make more sense—and save you about $3,000. Of course, the full electric i4 is a whole different animal, but a model comparable to our tester starts at about $61,000.

Another comparison might be with its all-electric competitor, the Tesla Model 3 that we reviewed last month (June 11). The BMW 3-Series was the original target—or supposed target for Tesla. Having driven both, there are several distinctions. The BMW is a real luxury performance car, versus Tesla’s “new age” version of “luxury” performance. The Model 3 is not a true luxury car, except in price (and right now the Model 3 beats the BMW on price by a good margin), and its performance, while good, is not in the same league as the BMW.

History Matters

By John Grimaldi and David Bruce Smith

July 1 through July 15

Photos Courtesy of gratefulamericanbookprize.com

Th
e Declaration of Independence

On April 19, 1775, shots were heard from Lexington and Concord, Massachusetts; the Revolutionary War had begun, but The Continental Congress did not deliver a Declaration of Independence until July 4th of the following year.

It proclaimed—in part: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.”

The Liberty Bell

Four days after its ratification, the first public reading of the Declaration took place at the Pennsylvania State House. Citizens were summoned by the sound of “the 2,000-pound copper-and-tin… ‘Liberty Bell’,” according to History.com.

Cast in 1752 England, the bell—stenciled with a message of, “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land unto All the inhabitants thereof”—was shipped to Pennsylvania—and garnered incremental iconic status–because of its crack; a herald of liberty, according to the National Park Service.

The bell has “served to remind Americans of a time when they fought together for independence. Abolitionists, women’s suffrage advocates and civil rights leaders took inspiration from [its] inscription. Now a worldwide symbol, the…message of freedom remains reverberating and relevant.

The Medal of Honor

On July 12, 1862 Abraham Lincoln formulated the Medal of Honor during the Civil War to honor “noncommissioned officers and privates who most distinguish themselves by their gallantry in action, and other soldier-like qualities during the present insurrection.”

Eight months later Congress converted it into a permanent decoration and authorized it for all members of the armed forces, including commissioned officers.

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

News and notes from around the world

Submitted by Association of Mature American Citizens

Life with Barbie

As dismayed as it may be for the “woke” folk among us, the fact is that some 90% of three-to-ten-year-old American girls still own one or more Barbie dolls, according to Mattel, the company that introduced the iconic toys 60 years ago. A soon-to-be-released Barbie movie is a sexagenarian tribute to the plaything as is the real-life Malibu Barbie DreamHouse in California, which, for the occasion, is available for a short term via the Airbnb realtors for two-person, two-day stays.

“48N48”

These fly boys broke the record for traversing mainland America, landing in each of the 48 states in less than 48 hours. Delta A350 Capt. Barry Behnfeldt and Aaron Wilson and technician Thomas Twiddy took off in their 1980 PA32R Piper Saratoga and landed in each of the contiguous 48 states from Michigan to Maine. And they made what they called their “48N48” trip not in 48 hours but in a record breaking 44 hours and seven minutes.

An Irish tribute for Dolly Parton

In an interview during a visit to Ireland some time ago Dolly Parton declared that she has a love for Ireland. In return, an Irish gathering recently in the town of Listowel in County Kerry drew more than 1,100 participants, all of them dressed up and looking like Dolly. They all wore blonde wigs, cowboy boots and rhinestone-covered costumes. Their aim was to show their love for the Queen of Nashville and to raise funds for Kerry Hospice and Comfort for Chemo Kerry.

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

Hydrangea help

By Pat Kite

One of my readers wants a drought tolerant garden. She is also insistent on having hydrangeas. Hydrangeas are water hogs, or so I have always heard. Over the years, I have successfully massacred several expensive hydrangeas, as I forgot to water for a few days. (Well, maybe it was a week.)

I have been researching, and it seems not all of the 75 possible hydrangea species are water fiends. But they all require moisture. A large hydrangea can require 12 gallons per day. While some species tolerate sun, it’s best to place plants in mostly shade. (Mostly shade does not mean under oak trees.)

Before purchasing, learn to look at labels. Hydrangeas can grow very big. Climbing versions can take over your house, even a two-story. Big-Leaf will get eight feet tall and eight feet wide. Hydrangeas seemannii is an evergreen vine which will cling to almost anything, including your house and maybe the adjacent condominium.

So, let’s look at the smaller varieties. For “dwarf” versions, the term is flexible. It can mean up to five feet high. Let’s go smaller, to pot size. Fire Light Tidbit grows up to three feet high and wide, as does Invincebelle minimauvette. Invincebelle wee white ranges from one to three feet high/wide.

Of course, use a large pot. I have seldom seen a growing plant that enjoyed repotting. The pot must have drainage holes. Without them, plants drown. Use a bagged potting mix with a small dose of slow-release fertilizer. Loosen plant roots, add plant, then add soil. Water. Soil should be damp, not soggy. Never let a hydrangea dry out.

Fables are few for hydrangeas, but one long-ago story comes from Japan. An Emperor was so busy being Emperor that he neglected his most beloved girlfriend. Wishing to apologize, he gave her a gift of blue hydrangeas to show his affection and gratitude.

Demonstrating how tales travel, back in 1736 a colonist brought a gift of hydrangeas to England. By 1800, gentlemen who were unhappy about being rejected for whatever reason sent hydrangea flowers to the rejecting ladies. This was to mock them for being frigid. Thus came the tall tale that women who grew hydrangeas in their front yard will never marry.

In flower symbolism, hydrangeas demonstrate beauty, grace and gratitude. The varying colors manifest love, peace and harmony. There is a lot of internet material on how to change Hydrangea colors by adding this or that to the soil. My life is already complex, but you can research.

Hydrangeas have value beyond the ornamental. According to one ancient legend, on the day the Buddha was born, the sky rained beautiful flowers and poured out the sweet nectar called “amaca.” From this blessed liquid came the Earth flower “audisi” (Ajisai), as the hydrangea in called in Japanese.

Social Security

Ask Rusty – Why can’t I collect survivor benefits from my deceased wife?

Dear Rusty: I am a 62-year-old widower that is still working full time. While my late spouse was in hospice, I was able to get her to apply for Social Security disability and she received one payment before she passed away two years ago. I was told that I could collect a survivor benefit, so I called my local Social Security office, but they told me that I could not collect any type of benefits from my wife, and that all the money she paid into SS for all of those years was basically gone for good. Would you please advise if this is true, and what I can do? I was also told that Social Security’s agents will do everything they can to avoid paying out benefits. Signed: Frustrated Widower

Dear Frustrated Widower: I suspect that the reason Social Security said you were not eligible for benefits as a widower is because you are working full time. At age 62, you are subject to Social Security’s “earnings test” which limits how much you can earn while collecting early Social Security benefits. The 2023 earnings limit is $21,240 and, if that is exceeded, SS will take away $1 in benefits for every $2 you are over the limit. If your earnings are high enough, that could make you tem
porarily ineligible to collect benefits until 1) your earnings are less, or 2) you reach your full retirement age (FRA) when the earnings test no longer applies.

Assuming you have not yet claimed your personal SS retirement benefit, you are still eligible to collect a survivor benefit from your wife when your earnings are less or after you reach your full retirement age. One strategy you may wish to consider, if you plan to keep working full time, is to wait and claim only your surviving spouse benefit at your FRA (67), thus allowing your personal SS retirement benefit to continue growing until you are 70 when your personal SS retirement benefit will be about 75% more than it would be now. Although your survivor benefit reaches maximum at your FRA, your personal benefit doesn’t reach maximum until age 70, so it’s possible to collect your smaller survivor benefit from your wife first and claim your higher personal benefit later.

You were apparently given some confusing information when you contacted Social Security. If you haven’t already claimed your own SS retirement benefit, you are still eligible for a surviving spouse benefit from your wife but likely cannot collect a widower benefit at this time because you’re working full time. However, that doesn’t mean you can never collect a survivor benefit; only that you can’t collect it at this time because of the “earnings test.” The earnings test goes away when you reach age 67, so you can claim only your survivor benefit at that time (or before if you no longer work full time) and allow your personal SS retirement benefit to continue to grow (to age 70 if you like).

From our experience with the Social Security Administration, the skill level of SSA representatives varies, but we have never suspected their goal was trying to avoid paying benefits due. Nevertheless, depending on the agent you spoke with, the information provided may have been less clear about the best claiming strategy for you—which is why the AMAC Foundation’s Social Security Advisory Service exists. Our advisors are all highly experienced and strive to provide you with complete and clear information which enables you to make an informed choice about how and when to claim the Social Security benefits you are entitled to. I hope we have succeeded.

This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or financial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit our website (amacfoundation.org/programs/social-security-advisory) or email us at ss*******@am************.org.

BART Board votes to raise bay area bridge tolls

Submitted by BART Communications Office

The BART Board of Directors voted Friday, June 30, to support Senate Bill (SB) 532 — the Safe, Clean, and Reliable Public Transportation Emergency Act.

Authored by Senator Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), SB 532 would require the Bay Area Toll Authority to raise tolls on the seven state-owned bridges in the Bay Area by $1.50 from January 1, 2024, until December 31, 2028. Revenues from this toll increase would be distributed by the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) to BART and other fixed-route transit operators, including bus, rail or ferry, to address operating shortfalls and help fund initiatives to increase transit ridership.

“In authoring this bill, Senator Wiener continues to show extraordinary leadership in finding creative ways to assist essential public transit through the immense short-term financial difficulties we face in the wake of the pandemic,” said BART Board President Janice Li.

President Li also acknowledged the hard work and assistance of SB 532 co-authors Senators Josh Becker (D-Menlo Park) and Dave Cortese (D-San Jose) and Assemblymembers Mia Bonta (D-Alameda), Matt Haney (D-San Francisco), Alex Lee (D-Milpitas), Phil Ting (D-San Francisco) and Buffy Wicks (D-Oakland).

SB 532 offers Bay Area transit agencies experiencing the worst shortfalls a lifeline until a Bay Area regional transportation funding measure can be placed on the ballot, most likely in 2026.

The state budget agreement reached in June also offers short-term help for BART, although it’s not yet clear how much money BART will receive or when it will receive it.

Fremont City Council

June 20, 2023

Consent Calendar

• Authorize HOME Funding agreements to Fremont Family Resource Center and Abode Services
• Approval of a Mutual Aid agreement for Emergency Fire Response between the City of Fremont and the City of Milpitas

Mayor Lily Mei           Aye

Teresa Cox                  Aye

Raj Salwan                  Aye

Yang Shao                  Aye

Teresa Keng                Aye

Jenny Kassan              Aye

Desrie Campbell          Aye

Hayward City Council

June 27, 2023

Consent Items

• Confirm the Non-Abatable Code Violations and Penalty Liens List associated with the Code Enforcement Division and Community Preservation/Rental Housing Programs
• Confirm the Special Assessment List and authorizing transmittal of assessments to the County Assessor for collection associated with overdue Community Preservation and Rental Program charges for the period of January 1, 2022, through May 1, 2023
• Confirm the Assessment for Delinquent Garbage Bills Incurred by property owners of single-family residences
• Confirm the Special Assessment for Delinquent Sewer and Water Bills and authorize the delinquent charges to become a special assessment against the properties if not paid by August 1, 2023
• Approve the Final Map of Tract 8614, a 10-lot subdivision for condominium purposes at 29212 Mission Boulevard to allow the construction of 59 condominium units, open space areas, and related site improvements; Applicant/Owner: Hayward SoMi, LLC
• Authorize a three-year agreement with Pacheco Landscape Management for Landscape Maintenance Services at all Hayward Fire Department stations
• Accept and appropriate $100,000 in grant funding from PG&E for the No-Cost Residential Chipping Program and Defensible Space Resident Assistance Program
• Amend an agreement with Ganey Science, LLC to update the Emergency Management Plan and negotiate On-Call Emergency Management Consulting Services with Ganey Science, LLC
• Allow Hayward Police Department to participate in the application process for Organized Retail Theft Prevention grant sponsored through the Board of State and Community Corrections
• Amend the Professional Services Agreement with Carollo Engineers, Inc., to increase the contract to provide additional Construction Support Services for the Water Pollution Control Facility (WPCF) Switchgear Rehabilitation Project
• Authorize a MOU and Partnership Agreement, accept and appropriate up to $101,000 for the operation of Family Education Program Services for Hayward Unified School District (HUSD) Schools
• Reject all bids for La Vista Park Project, approve plans and specifications and call for bids for La Vista Park – Keyways Grading Project
• Award a construction contract to Bear Construction, Inc., for the FY23 Median Landscape Improveme
  nt Project
• Approve the Memoranda of Understanding between the City of Hayward and International Association of Firefighters, Local 1909
• Accept and appropriate up to $15,000 annually for the next five years in donations for the annual Hayward Volunteer Recognition and Awards Dinner
• Authorize an Exclusive Negotiation Rights Agreement with Montecito Development Company LLC for proposed development of the California Air National Guard and Skywest Sites at the Hayward Executive Airport

Mayor Mark Salinas               Aye

Angela Andrews                     Aye

Ray Bonilla                             Aye

Dan Goldstein                         Aye

Julie Roche                              Aye

George Syrop                          Aye

Francisco Zermeno                  Aye

County Formally Apologizes for its Role in Russell City’s Destruction

Submitted by the Office of Supervisor Elisa Marquez

On Tuesday, June 27, Alameda County Board of Supervisors formally apologized for the County’s role in the seizure and destruction of the unincorporated area known as Russell City, now located within the City of Hayward.

During the 1950s and 1960s, roughly 1,400 residents were displaced when the largely African American and Latino farming community was annexed into Hayward to build an industrial park.

The 12-block neighborhood known as Russell City was home to more than 230 families and numerous businesses. At the time, ongoing neglect from the County of Alameda led to a lack of sewage and water services, dedicated fire service, and other basic public infrastructure.

Conditions created by the lack of these basic municipal services were used by County and City of Hayward officials to justify the creation of a redevelopment plan that required the destruction of Russell City to make way for the city to annex and permit the development of an industrial business park with dedicated municipal services denied to the residents of Russell City.

In adopting the resolution, several Supervisors apologized directly to former residents and descendants in attendance. Board President Miley and Supervisor Márquez read the full resolution into the record.

“It is a historic day. It is overwhelming. I can’t believe this day is here, I am excited for the elders,” added Aisha Knowles, one of the producers of the documentary film The Apology. Her father and grandparents were Russell City residents – all of whom have been active in the creation of Hayward’s Russell City Reparative Justice Project.

Milpitas Unified School District

June 27, 2023

Consent Items

• Approve CIS, Inc.’s Agreement for IOR Services on the MHS Performing Arts Project
• Approve contract between San Jose State University and MUSD for Single Subject Intern Program 2023-2024
• Approve Radius Earthwork, Inc.’s agreement for MHS Summer Paving Project
• Approve Eichler’s proposal to assess the District’s HVAC system for the CalSHAPE grant at Elementary sites
• Approve Eichler and Associates for CalSHAPE Equipment Repairs and Pelican Installation at Rancho and Russell
• Approve Tri-Valley Excavating’s agreement for Rancho Summer Paving Project
• Approve Orbach Huff & Henderson LLP retainer agreement for Legal Services
• Award Virtual Meeting Solutions Bid 2023-01 for Streaming and Broadcast Services
• Approve Program Assessment contract with Brigaid
• Approve Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP, agreement for Legal Services
• Approve Santa Clara University (SCU) Noyce Teaching Fellowship Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between SCU and MUSD
• Approve Littler Mendelson agreement for Legal Services
• Approve Memorandum of Understanding between San Jose State University and Multiple Subjects/Bilingual Residency Program
• Approve contract between Santa Clara County and Milpitas Adult Education for the provision of a Correctional Adult Education Program
• Approve Service agreement between Milpitas Unified School District – Adult Education Programs and the County of Santa Clara
• Approve Memorandum of Understanding with East Side Adult Education Program for CalWORKs services
• Approve Agreement with Pacific Clinics for extended School Year, 2023
• Approve Memorandum of Understanding with Asian Americans for Community Involvement

President Chris Norwood                   Aye

Hai Ngo                                              Aye

Kelly Yip-Chuan                                 Aye

Anu Nakka                                          Aye

Robert Jung                                         Aye

Milpitas Unified School District

June 27, 2023

Consent Items

• Approve CIS, Inc.’s Agreement for IOR Services on the MHS Performing Arts Project
• Approve contract between San Jose State University and MUSD for Single Subject Intern Program 2023-2024
• Approve Radius Earthwork, Inc.’s agreement for MHS Summer Paving Project
• Approve Eichler’s proposal to assess the District’s HVAC system for the CalSHAPE grant at Elementary sites
• Approve Eichler and Associates for CalSHAPE Equipment Repairs and Pelican Installation at Rancho and Russell
• Approve Tri-Valley Excavating’s agreement for Rancho Summer Paving Project
• Approve Orbach Huff & Henderson LLP retainer agreement for Legal Services
• Award Virtual Meeting Solutions Bid 2023-01 for Streaming and Broadcast Services
• Approve Program Assessment contract with Brigaid
• Approve Burke, Williams & Sorensen, LLP, agreement for Legal Services
• Approve Santa Clara University (SCU) Noyce Teaching Fellowship Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between SCU and MUSD
• Approve Littler Mendelson agreement for Legal Services
• Approve Memorandum of Understanding between San Jose State University and Multiple Subjects/Bilingual Residency Program
• Approve contract between Santa Clara County and Milpitas Adult Education for the provision of a Correctional Adult Education Program
• Approve Service agreement between Milpitas Unified School District – Adult Education Programs and the County of Santa Clara
• Approve Memorandum of Understanding with East Side Adult Education Program for CalWORKs services
• Approve Agreement with Pacific Clinics for extended School Year, 2023
• Approve Memorandum of Understanding with Asian Americans for Community Involvement

President Chris Norwood                   Aye

Hai Ngo                                              Aye

Kelly Yip-Chuan                                 Aye

Anu Nakka                                          Aye

Robert Jung                                         Aye

Alameda County Sheriff’s Log

Submitted By ACSO

Monday, July 3

• At approximately 2:00 a.m. ACSO dispatch received a call about a vehicle crash near the 164th Avenue offramp from I-580 eastbound. The caller advised that several individuals fled from the vehicle on foot. Upon an ACSO deputy’s arrival, an unknown individual was positioned on top of a CHP officer located on the ground in the 1600 block of 163rd Avenue, engaged in a violent struggle and actively being assaulted. During the assault, it appeared the suspect was attempting to take the CHP officer’s firear
  m. The suspect failed to follow several verbal commands from the CHP officer and ACSO deputy. The CHP officer and ACSO deputy discharged their firearms, striking the suspect. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. Three additional suspects were eventually apprehended without incident. None of the four male suspects have been positively identified.

During the investigation, it was determined that the CHP officer first encountered the vehicle driving eastbound on I-580 at a high speed. The officer attempted to catch up to the vehicle to initiate an enforcement stop, but the vehicle continued and exited the 164th Avenue offramp before ultimately crashing. The officers saw several suspects wearing ski masks flee on foot. One CHP officer followed two suspects in their patrol vehicle and eventually exited his vehicle to confront them. One suspect aggressively attacked him until our deputy arrived to assist.

The officer sustained injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The deputy was unharmed. The vehicle was subsequently determined to be a stolen 2015 Hyundai sedan out of Hayward. Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Crime Lab and Coroner’s Bureau responded to process the scene.

We ask for your patience as we sort out the investigation details. We ask anyone with information or video surveillance footage related to this ongoing investigation to contact the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office.

Alameda County Fire Log

Submitted by ACFD

Tuesday, July 4

• At 10:23 pm, Alameda County Fire Department (ACFD) responded to a house fire on Begonia Street in Union City. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire with no injuries reported.
• At 1:10 p.m. ACFD along with other departments responded to a 6-acre vegetation fire at Lake Chabot Park near the 17900 block of Lake Chabot Road in Castro Valley. Firefighters worked through the night to extinguish the fire. The fire is under investigation, and there were no injuries reported.

Wednesday, July 5

• Around 10:33 p.m. ACFD responded to a vegetation fire. Initially homes were threatened near Three Crosses Church off John Drive, Carter Lane, and West Ridge Court in Castro Valley. Some residents were told to evacuate.

The fire burned four acres before firefighters were able to stop the forward motion of the fire. No damage to any structures due to the quick and aggressive fire attack. A few fences burned and some were knocked down as crews worked to protect homes.

Residents were able to return to their homes late that night. One witness told firefighters on scene that they saw fireworks in the area. No reports of injuries to community members or firefighters. The official cause is under investigation.

BART Police Log

Submitted by BART PD and Les Mensinger

Wednesday, June 28

• At 5:23 p.m. a man police identified as Jonathan Carlisle, 48, of Oakland was arrested at Bay Fair Station for two outstanding warrants and transported to Santa Rita Jail.

Thursday, June 29

• At 7:26 a.m. a man police identified as Emmanuel Rogers-Allen, 40, from Fremont was contacted on a train and arrested at Bay Fair Station for false impersonation, resisting arrest, and an active warrant. Rogers-Allen was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

Friday, June 30

• At 6:32 a.m. a person police identified as Hasani Bell, 25, from Union City was contacted for smoking on board a train. Bell was arrested at Hayward Station for possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell, possession of drug paraphernalia, and a probation violation. Bell will be booked into Santa Rita Jail upon being medically cleared.

Fremont Police Log

Submitted by Fremont Police Department

Sunday, June 18

• Officers responded to a used auto retailer on Christy St. after a security monitoring service observed several masked subjects cutting a hole in a fence. The suspects gained entry into the car lot and stole two SUVs. As officers approached the area, the subjects rammed the gates, exited the lot, and were last seen fleeing northbound on Christy St. at a high rate of speed. This case remains under investigation.

Monday, June 19

• Officers responded to a battery near a liquor store on Thornton Ave. Witnesses reported seeing a male and female in a physical altercation inside a vehicle parked near the store. The female victim exited the vehicle, and the male subject gave chase on foot, held, and choked the victim. The male subject then returned to the vehicle and drove away. Officers located the subject and his vehicle nearby and arrested the subject.
• Officers responded to a pharmacy on Mowry Ave.; a subject entered, battered an employee, and fled the store. Officers flooded the area and checked neighboring businesses looking for the subject. Officers located the subject at the BART Station. The subject was positively identified by the victim and arrested.
• Officers responded to a high school in Irvington to a report of juveniles on the roof of a campus building. Along with trespassing, the juveniles destroyed glass and poured chemicals from a science lab. Officers arrived and contacted the juveniles. The group was ultimately reprimanded and released. School officials will be determining consequences for the juveniles. HAZMAT responded to dispose of the chemical safely.

Tuesday, June 20

• Officers responded to a supermarket on Warms Springs Blvd. to an initial report of a stolen vehicle. The vehicle owner initially said that the subject asked for a lighter, and when the victim obliged, the subject got into the vehicle and drove away. Officers later learned that the victim was thrown out of his vehicle before the subject took it. The victim was not injured, and the crime was upgraded to carjacking. This case remains under investigation.

Thursday, June 22

• Officers responded to Dunbar Place on a report of two subjects tampering with a ring doorbell camera. The subjects stole a catalytic converter from a passenger van. Officers later located the subjects’ vehicle near Paseo Padre Pkwy. and Peralta Blvd. Officers attempted a stop, but the vehicle fled at a high rate of speed. This case remains under investigation.

Monday, June 26

• FPD received an automated accident notification on Paseo Padre Pkwy. and Isherwood Way. An ambulance nearby also witnessed the accident and advised a vehicle crashed into a tree and light pole. Officers arrived and determined the driver to be intoxicated. During a vehicle search, officers found two loaded, unserialized firearms. One adult subject was arrested and transported to the hospital for medical clearance.
• The Major Crimes Task Force requested patrol to assist with a perimeter to apprehend a subject near Gina St. and Ladner St. The subject was believed to be armed with a handgun and was fleeing arrest by jumping fences and running through backyards and rooftops. Officers quickly contained the subject within their perimeter, and the subject surrendered. A handgun was recovered from one of the residences along the subject’s path.

Hayward Police Log

Submitted by Hayward Police Department

Tuesday, July 4

• 7:40 p.m. Two community members, one of whom is a juvenile, located an unresponsive adult male near the 1100 block of W. Tennyson Road. Officers responded and found the victim, with multiple stab wounds, deceased at the scene. There is no one in custody.
• 10:14 p.m. Six people were shot (two critically injured) at a gathering on Ranker Place near Manon Avenue. Preliminary information indicated there was a fight among several subjects before shots were fired. One of the critically injured individuals being treated at a local hospital has been identified as one of the shooters, and the investigation indicates additional shooters may be outstanding.
• 11:25 p.m. One person was
  shot during a sideshow-related incident near the 1000 block Folsom Avenue. The victim sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at a local hospital. There is no one in custody.
• 11:30 p.m. Three people were shot, and two victims were injured by a vehicle engaging in a sideshow-related incident in the area of Miami Avenue and Florida Street. One of the shooting victims died at the hospital. The other four victims are in stable condition and are receiving treatment at local hospitals. There is no one in custody. Some of the shooting victims related to these incidents were taken to local hospitals by witnesses or other community members prior to the arrival of medical personnel.

Wednesday, July 5

• 12:44 p.m. An adult male suffered a non-life-threatening gunshot wound near the 500 block of Harris Road. The victim and believed shooter are acquaintances and the shooter is in custody.

Milpitas Police Log

Submitted by Milpitas Police Department

Thursday, June 22

• At 7:02 a.m. an armed robbery was reported at a gas station located at the 100 block of S. Park Victoria Drive. The suspect threatened the clerk and took approximately $600 cash from the register. The suspect fled in a black sedan. MPD Detectives identified the suspect vehicle with the aid of Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR). They were also able to identify the robbery suspect who is on federal probation for weapons violations. Milpitas Police detectives arrested the suspect in San Jose without incident. A search of his residence yielded a replica firearm believed to have been used in the robbery. The suspect was booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail for robbery.

Arrest made in catalytic converter theft series

Submitted by Fremont Police Department

The Fremont Police Department General Investigations Unit conducted an approximately eight-week investigation into a prolific catalytic converter theft group. Over the course of several months, this group was responsible for committing numerous catalytic converter thefts within Alameda County and Santa Clara County. Over time the suspects became more violent and in at least two instances, brandished a firearm toward the victims. During the commission of these crimes, the suspects used a stolen vehicle, which Fremont PD Detectives were able to track to one of the suspect’s residences.

On June 22, Detectives apprehended two suspects at their residence, and two stolen catalytic converters were in their possession. A search warrant was obtained for a residence, and the search yielded multiple high-capacity magazines, ammunition, three unserialized firearms (“ghost guns”), and a fully automatic firearm. This investigation is ongoing, and attempts will be made to identify additional suspects.

On June 26, the case was presented to Alameda County District Attorney’s Office. Nestor Lealsumale (23 years old, resident of Hayward) was subsequently charged with three felony counts and one misdemeanor count– grand theft, possession of a machine gun, and possession of a large capacity magazine.

If you have information regarding the catalytic converter theft series in Fremont involving the listed suspect or any other involved persons, please contact Fremont Police Department Investigations at (510) 790 – 6865.

Union City Police Log

Submitted by UCPD

Friday, June 16

• At approximately 10:05 p.m. K9 Officer Moya conducted a traffic stop in the 31900 block of Dyer Street. He contacted the driver, who admitted to and displayed objective symptoms of being under the influence of marijuana. Officers searched the car and found a firearm hidden under the driver’s seat. The driver was ultimately booked on eight felony firearms violations.

Saturday, June 17

• At approximately 10:18 a.m. officers responded to a robbery in the 34500 block of Alvarado Niles Road. Four suspects ran into the business and stole beer. As they fled, they punched the victim in the face. The victim described the suspects as three black males and one black female, all approximately 20 years old.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Drop-in mailbox

The newly-installed mail-drop box at the drive-through is inconvenient

The other day I went to drop the mail at the drive-through of the Irvington post office in Fremont, and its big change surprised me.

I found I can’t drop my letters while the car engine is running. I have to put the car into parking mode, get out of the vehicle, and drop the letter on the other side of the blue box. In fact, the old mailbox used to be easy facing towards the driver’s side, just pull the arm out of the window drop letters and go. It was simple.

Since the USPS turned the face of the blue box to the other side, and I failed to understand its logic, it is just a waste of time for people on the go.

I hereby request the postmaster and USPS authorities to turn the face of the drop-in mailbox towards the driver’s side for our convenience.

Zafar Yousufzai

Fremont

Honor Roll

Emerson College

Spring 2023 Dean’s List

• Worlanyo Mensah of Fremont
• Aayush Bajpai of Fremont
• Ananya Dutta of Fremont
• Qais Faraj of Hayward

Campbellsville University

Spring 2023 Graduates

• Mubasheer Ghouri of Fremont
• Shruti Shrikant Karambelkar of Fremont
• Anil Kumar Maruboina of Milpitas
• Krunal Kumar Rameshbhai Patel of Fremont
• Suraj Kumar Ramadugu of Fremont
• Monica Satyani of Fremont
• Hemalatha Veerla of Fremont

Georgia Institute of Technology

Spring 2023 Graduates

• Pronay Kumar Biswas of Fremont
• Upasana Chaube of Union City
• Stanley Cheah of Milpitas
• Rishi Chillara of Fremont
• Patrick Dillon of Fremont
• Emily Joe of Fremont
• Sean Lee of Castro Valley
• Wenkai Liao of Fremont
• Yao Lu of Castro Valley
• Thao Luong of Newark
• Ganesh Murugappan of Fremont
• Anusha Nandam of Fremont
• Kartik Narang of Fremont
• Rajesh Pantula of Union City
• Kartheek Pasam of Milpitas
• Soham Patil of Fremont
• Diivanand Ramalingam of Fremont
• Divyanshu Sharma of Fremont
• Joyce Shen of Fremont
• Miao Sheng of Fremont
• Shangci Wang of Union City
• Xiaoxu Wu of Milpitas

Georgia Institute of Technology

Spring 2023 Faculty Honors

• Ansh Gupta of Fremont
• Karthik Varadharajan of Fremont
• Jenny Hou of Fremont
• Vivek Vijaykumar of Fremont
• Austin Peng of Fremont
• Vrinda Amarnani of Fremont

CSUEB Coach selected for NCAA College Basketball Academy

Submitted by CSUEB Athletic Communications

Cal State East Bay men’s basketball head coach Bryan Rooney has been selected to coach at the 2023 NCAA College Basketball Academy, which takes place for men’s basketball from July 24-27 in Memphis, Tennessee.

Basketball coaches selected for the Academy are from Division II, Division III, junior colleges and high schools nationwide. Men’s basketball coaches were selected by the National Association of Basketball Coaches, coordinated with the NCAA.

The purpose of the academy is to provide prospective student-athletes a sample of the college basketball experience. In addition to playing on the court, participants have educational opportunities at the Academy, including courses applicable components of the college basketball experience and the pathway to professional basketball opportunities.

Rooney was the only men’s basketball coach from the CCAA selected to coach at the NCAA College Basketball Academy in 202
3.

San Leandro High School introduces Girl’s Flag Football

By April Ramos

Photos courtesy of Sandra Hernandez

On May 2, San Leandro High School Athletics announced it would be offering girl’s flag football as an official sport for the 2023-2024 season. Along with that, San Leandro High School (SLHS) announced that they already had a coach for the team.

This announcement was big news since no high school in the West Alameda County Conference (WACC) has ever had an official girl’s flag football team. Although this seems like a sudden addition to the high school’s sports line up, SLHS Athletic Director Nick Thomas, explains it was actually very much anticipated. “All the Athletic Directors of the WACC league meet up once a month. When we found out in October that the CIF [California Interscholastic Federation] was getting close to approving girl’s flag football in Sothern California, we knew it was only a matter of time before they approved it for Northern California.”

Thomas was right. In early February, CIF – the governing body for all high school sports in the state – approved girl’s flag football as an official sport for high schools all over Northern California. “When it became officially approved in February, I knew I was going to do whatever I had to do to have a team next year.” shared Thomas.

San Leandro Unified School board had to approve the salary of the future coach, which was a simple process recalls Thomas, “The school board was supportive and excited to see this team as well.” After the approval, the next step was to find the right person to fill the role. There was no need to look far to find the perfect candidate.

Sandra Hernandez answered the call. Originally from Sonoma County, Hernandez has been a Physical Education teacher for 12 years, 11 of those years with San Leandro Unified School District, and has 20 years of experience coaching basketball. She also has an impressive resume with a combined 10 years of experience playing flag and tackle football. “I’ve played for the Santa Rosa Scorchers, Bay Area Bandits and other teams all over the Bay Area,” says Hernandez.

Although this is the first time Hernandez will be coaching flag football, with her years of experience as a basketball coach and a flag football player herself, she understands the task at hand. “I’m preparing by building a program for the team, and preparing for a lot of teaching because most of the girls will have little to no experience with flag football.”

In May, SLHS organized an informational meeting for those who had an interest in the sport. An impressive 40 girls were in attendance. At the meeting the students were introduced to Coach Hernandez and discussed the future of the team including summer conditioning and tryouts planned for August.

Thomas explained that at the moment there is only a rough outline of the team’s schedule with games taking place on Thursdays and larger events, such as Jamborees and League Championships, held on Saturdays. But the team will have to hold off on regional tournaments for now. “It’s a rule set by CIF; teams must have played two to three seasons as an established team. Mostly to make sure that they get any kinks out and have a hold on how to run the team smoothly before moving on to larger tournaments,” explains Thomas.

Thomas shares his excitement for the future of the sport, “I’m really looking forward to this and how it will impact the community and bring us together.” Even before the season has begun Thomas’ words ring true. When asked if he had anything to add about the team his immediate thought went to the help they received from a local organization. “San Leandro Athletics would like to give a huge thank you to Lou’s Dugout for their continued support. They purchased uniforms for our flag football team to help us get started and have our girls looking great!”

As for Hernandez’s thoughts on the future of the team, she shares, “I’m looking forward to building not only the name for the high school, but the sport overall. I’m also excited for the girls to have the opportunity to play a new sport and hopefully for them to feel empowered and proud of themselves for playing flag football.”

Milpitas PAL Soccer Registration

Submitted by Milpitas PAL

Milpitas PAL Soccer open for registrations for the 2023 fall season! Milpitas PAL Soccer is a recreational soccer organization offering soccer from U6 to U17 in the fall each year. Registration is through July 14: $ 125, $10 off additional child. Late registration starts July 15: $150, no sibling discount. Registration fee includes the following:

• Uniform: jersey, shorts, socks
• Pictures: one team, one individual
• Participation trophy/medal

Practices take place two to three times a week with a total of 10 games held on Saturday, as long as weather permits. The end of the season tournament is in addition to the 10 games and will be held over the Saturday and Sunday weekend after the last regular game of the season.

Milpitaspalsoccer.org

Grammys CEO on new AI guidelines: Music that contains AI-created elements is eligible. ‘Period.’

By Maria Sherman

Associated Press Music Writer

Last month, the Recording Academy announced a series of changes to the Grammy Awards to better reflect an evolving music industry. Of those newly instituted guidelines, protocols involving technological advancements in machine learning sparked headlines: “Only human creators” could win the music industry’s highest honor in a decision aimed at the use of artificial intelligence in popular music.

“A work that contains no human authorship is not eligible in any category,” the rules read in part. “As the music industry continues to come to terms with this new technology, so too will the Grammys,” says Recording Academy CEO and President Harvey Mason jr.

“Here’s the super easy, headline statement: AI, or music that contains AI- created elements is absolutely eligible for entry and for consideration for Grammy nomination. Period,” Mason told The Associated Press. “What’s not going to happen is we are not going to give a Grammy or Grammy nomination to the AI portion.”

If an AI or voice modeling program performs the lead vocal on a song, the track would be eligible in a songwriting category, for example, but not a performance category, because “what is performing is not human creation,” he explains. “Conversely, if a song was sung by an actual human in the studio, and they did all the performing, but AI wrote the lyric or the track, the song would not be eligible in a composition or a songwriting category.”

“As long as the human is contributing in a more than de minimis amount, which to us means a meaningful way, they are and will always be considered for a nomination or a win,” he continued. “We don’t want to see technology replace human creativity. We want to make sure technology is enhancing, embellishing, or additive to human creativity. So that’s why we took this particular stand in this award cycle.”

The Recording Academy has long considered setting rules related to AI following the popularity of new songs created alongside AI technology such as David Guetta’s “Emin-AI-em”; the AI -compositions of TikTok user @ghostwriter977; and Grimes’ voice modeling AI software.

In order to establish their AI guidelines, the Recording Academy engaged in extensive research, including holding tech summits.

“I’ve met with the copyright office. We’ve talked about the future and what that looks like on a federal level and the legislative level,” Mason said, adding that AI conversations “really came to a head in the last six months.”

The new Grammy AI protocols were announced three days after Paul McCartney shared that “the last Beatles record” had been composed using artificial intelligence to extract John Lennon’s voice from an old demo. Without knowi
ng the extent of the technology, Mason couldn’t confirm or deny whether the song would be eligible for a Grammy nomination.

“We’ll see what it turns out to be,” he said. “But I would imagine from the early descriptions that I’ve heard there would be components of the creation that would be absolutely eligible.”

So, can Grammy viewers expect to see work at least partially created with AI nominated for an award as early as next year? It’s impossible to predict what is submitted. But as Mason affirms, “people are using the technology. I’m imagining it’s going to be involved in a lot of records and  a lot of songs this year, so we’ll see if some of them get nominated or not, but I’m sure there’ll be some that will be submitted.”

The 2024 Grammy Awards will return to Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena on Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024, airing live on CBS and livestreamed on Paramount+.

Arizona man driving to work finds bobcat under his vehicle`s hood; animal returned to the wild

Associated Press

Jul 09, 2023

Horsepower is one thing, but an Arizona man driving to work wound up with a bobcat underneath his car’s hood.

Arizona Game and Fish Department officials reported Friday that the unidentified driver unknowingly struck a bobcat on the way to work recently in Gila Bend, some 73 miles (117 kilometers) southwest of Phoenix.

“He didn’t know he hit the bobcat until he parked his car and heard some noise under the hood,” Game and Fish officials said. “He looked under the hood and saw two eyeballs looking at him.”

Maricopa County Sheriff’s deputies from District 2 __ which covers Gila Bend, Tonopah, the southwest areas of the Phoenix metropolitan area and other communities __ arrived to help as did Game and Fish workers.

They were able to sedate the bobcat and remove it from the vehicle`s engine compartment behind the grille.

The bobcat wasn’t injured and was released back into the wild, according to wildlife officials.

An online post from the sheriff`s department said “District 2 is still the wild, wild west!”

Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

Wisconsin police officer races into burning barn and rescues cows trapped near flames

Associated Press

Jul 06, 2023

A Wisconsin police officer who ran into a burning barn and found three cows near flames says the bovines “made a beeline” for the safety of a pasture once he opened a gate holding them back.

Sturgeon Bay police officer Andrew Crabb was nearing the end of his overnight shift on the morning of June 25 when he spotted smoke coming from a barn at a farm. He stopped, dashed across a field and entered the barn, finding the cows trapped and mooing in distress.

“Once I realized what was going on inside that barn, I realized the gate didn’t get undone and those cows were not going to make it,” Crabb told Fox News Digital. “So I ran in there and got the gate and then got them out. And I didn’t have to really encourage them too much. They knew exactly what they needed to do once that gate was open.”

Crabb said the cows “made a beeline” out of the barn and joined the rest of the herd in the pasture. He said the three cows had been kept in the barn overnight because they were deemed “prone to escape.”

Police body camera video shows Crabb entering the barn, with flames near the animals. After he removes a chain from the gate, Crabb says “come on guys” and the cows quickly make their way out of the barn.

“Thankfully, everyone was safe!” Sturgeon Bay police said in a post on the department`s Facebook page.

Crabb said an all-volunteer fire brigade was able to “save the majority” of the barn.

Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

California mushroom farms cited for workplace safety violations after January fatal shootings

By Stefanie Dazio, Associated Press

California has cited two Northern California mushroom farms for health and safety violations and proposed more than $165,000 in potential fines five months after a farmworker killed seven people in back-to-back shootings on the farms in Half Moon Bay.

Chunli Zhao, who had worked at the farms, is charged with seven counts of murder and one count of attempted murder in the Jan. 23 shootings that stunned the small coastal community about 30 miles (48 kilometers) south of San Francisco. He has pleaded not guilty.

Authorities say Zhao opened fire at California Terra Garden, where he previously worked, killing four co-workers and wounding another one. They said he then drove about 2 miles (3.22 kilometers) to Concord Farms, a mushroom farm he was fired from in 2015, and shot to death three workers.

The state’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health, known as CAL/OSHA, filed 22 violations against California Terra Garden, Inc. and proposes $113,800 in fines, according to a Monday news release. Concord Farms faces 19 violations and $51,770 in fines.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office previously said some of the farmworkers told him they made $9 an hour and lived in shipping containers. The state minimum wage is $15.50.

“The conditions farmworkers shared with the Governor … are simply deplorable. Many workers have no choice but to tolerate the conditions provided to them by their employers,” Newsom spokesperson Daniel Villasenor said in a statement at the time.

The violations at California Terra Garden include an alleged failure to have a plan in place to notify employees of the Jan. 23 active shooter threat and to tell them to take shelter. The shooting at California Terra Garden was at least the second time an employee tried to kill a coworker on the property, records show.

A manager there was charged with attempted murder after he threatened to kill another manager in July and then fired a shot into the man’s trailer. The bullet went through the trailer and into a neighboring one that was home to Yetao Bing, one of the workers killed in the January violence. No one was injured in the July shooting.

California Terra Garden did not provide active shooter training to workers after the July violence, the state agency wrote.

Violations at Concord Farms include a failure to address prior workplace violence — including an incident where an employee assaulted a farm resident, which the employer did not investigate — and to develop a plan to prevent more violence in the future.

CAL/OSHA also said Concord Farms did not provide counseling for workers after the January shooting. Other violations for both farms included a lack of training for Spanish- and Mandarin-speaking workers in a language they can understand and failing to secure labor camp permits for onsite worker housing.

Most of the farmworkers in the area are Latino and the two mushrooms farms are among the few that employ Chinese workers, advocates have said. Efforts to reach the farms by telephone and email for comment were not immediately successful Monday.

The farms can appeal or seek reductions in the proposed penalties if corrective measures are taken.

Continuing Events 

Tuesdays

Poker Tournaments

6:00 pm

Weekly tournaments for beginner or a seasoned player

The Clubhouse Bistro & Bar

4020 Technology Pl., Fremont

(510) 651-2500

bit.ly/3GllRwI

First and Third Tuesdays

Mobile Food Distribution with Tri-City Volunteers

11:30 am – 12:30 pm

Bring your own bag

Fremont Adult School

4700 Calaveras Ave., Fremont

(510) 793-6465

tri-cityvolunteers.org/food

 Firs
t and Third Tuesdays & Wednesdays

Trivia Night

6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Gather your team, grab some beers, and compete to win prizes.

Drake’s Brewing Company

1933 Davis St. #177, San Leandro

(510) 568-2739

bit.ly/3U31xWD

Wednesdays

Tropics Bingo

7:00 pm

Flash games

Tropics Mobile Home Park

33000 Almaden Blvd., Union City

(510) 471-8550

Wednesdays

Trivia Night R$

6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Play & win prizes.

The Clubhouse Bistro & Bar

4020 Technology Pl., Fremont

(510) 651-2500

fremontclubhouse.com

Wednesdays

Ping Pong

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Activities for people with Parkinson

Age Well Center at South Fremont

47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont

(510) 742-7529

mt*****@fr*****.gov

Wednesdays

Little Listeners Storytime

11:00 am – 11:45 am

Storytime for preschoolers

San Lorenzo Library

395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo

(510) 284-0640

rb.gy/9lrtx

sa********@ac*******.org

Parent presence required.

Thursdays & Saturdays

Story Time

10:30 am – 11:00 am

Picture book story time

Banter Bookshop

3768 Capitol Ave. Ste. F., Fremont

(510) 565-1004

bit.ly/3VFpbcz

Thursday -Sunday

Animal Feeding

3:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Feed livestock and learn about their favorite food

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(888) 327-2757

Admission fee applies

Thursdays

CleanStart Mobile Hygiene Unit

12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Providing hygiene services to the unhoused

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1400

rb.gy/xn9jl

fr*****@ac*******.org

Thursdays

International Folk Dancing in Mandarin R$

11:30 am – 12:50 pm

Member: $35

Non-Member: $55

Age Well Center at South Fremont

47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont

(510) 742-7529

Second Thursdays

Cover to Cover Book Discussion

1:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Informal and lively discussions on pre-selected books

Newark Public Library

37055 Newark Blvd., Newark

(510) 284-0675

rb.gy/amivp

Fridays and Saturdays

Telescope Viewings

7:30 pm – 10:30 pm

Experience the awe and wonder of the universe

Chabot Space and Science Center

10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland

(510) 336-7300

bit.ly/3pehdLx

 First and Third Saturdays

Pacific Bus Museum $

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Open house

Pacific Bus Museum

37974 Shinn St., Fremont

bit.ly/41oKS25

Saturdays, July August

Bubbleworks Shows

2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Machines blast bubbles while pop music plays

Fremont Hub Courtyard near Five Below

Fremont Hub

39281 Fremont Hub, Fremont

Saturdays

Laugh Track City $

8:00 pm

Series of improvised games and scenes

Made Up Theatre

4000 Bay St. suite B., Fremont

(510) 573-3633

bit.ly/3HKIhsa

Saturdays

Summer Storytime Saturdays

10:30 am – 11:00 am

Share books and songs to build early literacy skills

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

rb.gy/a7bdr

Saturdays

Divine Satsang Sabha

5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Know techniques of living a virtuous, harmonious, & meaningful life

SMVS (Shri Swaminarayan Mandir)

36665 Cedar Blvd, Newark

(650) 585-5325

bit.ly/4380OGV

Second & Fourth Sundays

Larry “O” Teen Workshop

10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Bike repair Donation accepted

Larry Orozco Teen Workshop

33623 Mission Blvd., Union City

(510) 675-5487

Ro*****@un*******.org

Instagram @ibikeunioncity

Mondays & Thursdays

Fruit Tree Gleaning

9:00 am – 10:30 am

Donate fresh fruits from your garden.

LEAF CR Stone Garden

55 Mowry Ave., Fremont

bit.ly/42e4FlR

in**@fr*********.org.

Second and Third weekends, March 11 – October 29

Public weekend train ride $

9:30 am – 5:00 pm

1.5 hour round trip on steam and/or diesel operated trains

Departures: 10:30 am & 1:00 pm

Niles Canyon Railway

6 Kikare Rd., Sunol

(510) 996-8420

Online booking: ncry.org

Tuesdays, April 4 – September 5

Lego & Duplo Time

3:00 pm – 4:30 pm

Create your own design using your imagination and engineering skills.

Centerville library

3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont

(510) 795-2629

First Wednesday& Third Sunday, April 16 – November 19

Shinn House tour

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Visit Shinn House on a docent led tour

Shinn Historical Park and Arboretum

1251 Peralta Blvd., Fremont

(510) 790-5541

bit.ly/3TWli28

Mondays, April 17 – December 8

Job Lab

12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

One-on-one help for jobseekers

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

bit.ly/3mbW8Qz

Fridays & Saturdays, April 25 – August 31

Your Wildest Dreams, an exhibit

11:00 am – 3:00 pm

An exhibit of wildlife’s paintings by Rita Sklar

Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center

4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward

(510) 670-7270

Thursdays, May 4 – August 24

French Conversation Circle R

2:00 pm – 3:45 pm

Practice your French

Hayward Public Library

888 C St., Hayward

(510) 293-8685

bit.ly/HPLFrench23

**@ha********.gov

Fridays, May 5 October 20

Fremont Street Eats $

5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Food trucks and community fun!

Fremont Downtown Event Center

3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont

(510) 742-7510

bit.ly/2VfuSgv

Wednesday – Tuesday, May 10 – July 18

A Thread Through Time

During Senior Center hours

Textile Art by Anita Carse

Hayward Area Senior Center

22325 North 3rd Street, Hayward

(510) 881-6700

bit.ly/423u8hH

Sundays, May 21 – July 16

Creative Hands Exhibit at Dove Gallery

12:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Featuring a wonderful collection of art depicting hands and feet in creative endeavor

Park Victoria Baptist Church back Parking lot

Dove Gallery

875 S Park Victoria Dr., Milpitas

(408) 464-5011

Do**@Pa**********.org

Friday & Saturday, May 26 – August 26

Hayward Live

4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Experience musicians, artists & vendors performing live, creating art pieces

Downtown Hayward

B St., Hayward

hayward-ca.gov/hayward-live

Thursday – Tuesday, June 1 – August 15

AC Library’s Summer Adventure

9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Get an Adventure Guide for activities, reading to receive a book gift and prize drawing entries.

Available at libraries in Alameda County

rb.gy/vmtw6

Saturdays, June 3 – September 30

Summer Mus
ic Series R$

7:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Get ready to groove, dance, and sing along to your favorite tunes all summer long!

Excluding September 2

The Clubhouse Bistro & Bar

4020 Technology Pl., Fremont

(510) 651-2500

rb.gy/iw8sc

Saturday, June 3 – Saturday, August 1

Summer Library Program

During library hours

Reading and activities programs for all ages all summer long.

San Leandro Library

300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro

(510) 577-3970

Kk*****@sa********.org

rb.gy/wc5b5

Monday – Friday, June 5 – August 18

Code Ninjas Union City R$

9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Interactive learning for children who are interested in coding and STEM

Code Ninjas

1772 Decoto Rd., Union City

(510) 585-9945

rb.gy/e6d1o

Ages 5-14

Monday – Friday, June 5 – July 14

Imaginook Summer Camp R$

9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Six weeks of arts and crafts camps

Imaginook

39675 Cedar Blvd., Newark

(214) 864-5133

rb.gy/posr7

Ages 5-18

 Monday – Friday, June 5 – August 18

Code Ninjas Fremont R$

9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Interactive learning experience for children who are interested in coding and STEM

Code Ninjas Fremont/Warm Springs

46525 Mission Blvd., Fremont

(510) 400-1466

rb.gy/w63ym

Ages 5-14

Second Wednesdays, June 7 – October 4

The Literary Corner: A Fiction Book Club

5:30 pm – 6:30 pm

A monthly literary fiction book club for adults.

Hayward Public Library

888 C St., Hayward

(510) 293-8685

https://rb.gy/dgun1

ri************@ha********.gov

 Thursdays – Saturdays, June 8 – August 5

I Dream of Color

12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Paintings and textiles by Jennifer Banzaca

Olive Hyde Art Gallery

123 Washington Blvd., Fremont

(510) 791-4357

rb.gy/ct6aq

Thursdays, June 8 – August 10

Connections Through Music (Special Needs Friendly)

4:30 pm – 5:30 pm

Inclusive musical experience designed for children with special needs, open to children of all abilities!

Newark Public Library

37055 Newark Blvd., Newark

(510) 284-0675

rb.gy/8ttqt

ne***********@ac*******.org

Ages 5-14

Caregivers must be present

 Saturdays, June 10 – August 26

Computer Crew Teen Tech Help

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Meet one-on-one with a tutor to get assistance with basic tech issues.

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

rb.gy/cmfwa

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

Monday – Friday, June 12 – August 11

Little Steps STEAM Preschool Summer Camp R$

9:00 am – 3:30 pm

Explore new activities, learn new skills, make new friends

Little Steps STEAM Preschool

37957 Fremont Boulevard, Fremont

(510) 955-1150

rb.gy/iqti1

in**@li****************.com

Ages 3-6

Tuesdays, June 13 – July 25

Crafternoon

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Drop in during the program time frame and complete a craft at their own pace

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

rb.gy/e49ev

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

Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, June 13 – August 3

Free Recreational Summer activities in Fremont R

2nd – 5th grade: 9:00 am – 10:30 am

6th – 8th grade: 11:00 am – 12:30 pm

Session 2: July 18 – August 3

Brichfield Park

24438 Santa Clara St, Hayward

(510) 881-6700

bit.ly/3NZJ4cr

Limited space, registration now.

Thursdays, June 15 – December 21

Social Work Services for the Homeless

1:30 pm – 3:30 pm

Social Worker staff address a variety of services

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1400

rb.gy/loewm

fr*****@ac*******.org

 Tuesdays, June 20 – August 15

TAG/ Teen Tuesdays R

4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Play board games, join the Teen advisory group, make art and poetry for the teen art board.

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1400

https://rb.gy/b6r6o

eb*******@ac*******.org

 Thursdays, June 22 – August 3

Summer Adventure English Family Storytime

11:15 am – 12:00 pm

Family story times full of fun stories, fingerplays, songs, and activities!

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1400

https://rb.gy/dyq74

Thursdays, June 22 – August 3

Summer Adventure in Mandarin/English Bilingual Storytime

11:15 am – 12:00 pm

Summer family story times full of fun stories, fingerplays, songs, and activities

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1400

rb.gy/tabiu

Tickets available 15 minutes before start time

Mondays, June 26 – July 31

English Conversations R

12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Receive free learning material to develop English conversation skills

Newark Public Library

37055 Newark Blvd., Newark

(510) 284-0675

https://rb.gy/vsefd

li********@ac*******.org

Mondays, June 26 – August 7

Juggling Club

4:30 pm – 5:30 pm

All skill levels welcome!

San Lorenzo Library

395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo

(510) 284-0640

https://rb.gy/i6afo

Mondays, June 26 – July 23

Build It Day

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Children and families are invited for an afternoon of Legos, puzzles, and more!

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

https://rb.gy/kzhut

Mondays – Thursdays, June 26 – August 3

LOV’s 42nd Annual Summer Recreation in the Park R$

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Weekly themes and activities for children 5-12 in Fremont, Newark, Union City

Mayhews Landing Park

36380 Cherry Street, Newark

rb.gy/kj7e6

 Monday – Friday, July 10 – July 14

Girls Summer Hoops R$

9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Helping girls learn to be the best player that they can be

Silliman Activity and Family Aquatic Center

6800 Mowry Ave., Newark

(510) 578-4620

rb.gy/4arv6

 Thursdays – Saturdays, July 13 – September 30

2nd Annual Tiny Art Show R

During Library Hours

A community art show bringing miniature art to unique spaces.

Pick up supplies between July 13 and August 20

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

Return art by August 20 to be included in the show.

Upcoming Events

 Friday – Saturday, July 7 – 8 & July 13 – 15 $

Little Shop of Horrors

8:00 pm

A terrifying evening under the stars!

Ohlone College

43600 Mission Blvd, Fremont

(510) 659-6031

rb.gy/cz5z4

Friday – Sunday, July 7 – July 9 & July 14 – 16 $

Avenue Q

7:00 pm

Puppeteering musical about a recent grad livi
ng in Avenue Q

TwiningVine Winery

16851 Cull Canyon Rd, Castro Valley

rb.gy/0k4mb

Tuesday, July 11

Setting Healthy Boundaries with Parents R

4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Learn about how you can set healthy boundaries with parents and guardians! Presented by SAVE; Ages 12-24

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1400

rb.gy/ornrb

fr*****@ac*******.org

Tuesday, July 11

AWC Cinemas at Lake Elizabeth July “80 For Brady” R

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

A showing of 80 for Brady

Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth

40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont

(510) 790-6606

rb.gy/slvfq

Tuesday, July 11

Karaoke Night For Adults

6:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Drop in and find your voice!

Milpitas Public Library

160 N Main St., Milpitas

(408) 262-1171

https://rb.gy/qa3yo

ac****@sc**.org

Wednesday, July 12

Firelight Shadow Theater

1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Shadow puppetry of folktales with Daniel Barash

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

rb.gy/zxzo3

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

Thursday, July 13

Ride the Rails

10:20 am – 3:00 pm

Journey back in time through crops and eucalyptus groves

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(888) 327-2757

rb.gy/wa9hn

Admission fee applies

Thursday, July 13

Creativity through Tufting Demo R

11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Jennifer Banzaca will be demonstrating how she creates tapestry art through tufting.

Olive Hyde Art Gallery

123 Washington Blvd., Fremont

(510) 791-4357

rb.gy/marqj

Thursday, July 13

Second Chance Job & Resource Fair

11:00 am – 1:30 pm

Learn about resources and career connections

Second Chance

6330 Thornton Ave., Newark

Thursday, July 13

VA Palo Alto Outreach

10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Medical staff will be onsite to provide care to veterans currently enrolled in the VA healthcare system

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1400

rb.gy/blz1c

fr*****@ac*******.org

Meet in the parking lot.

Tuesday, July 13

Patterson House Tours

11:00 am – 2:30 pm

Tour the beautifully restored Patterson House Museum

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(888) 327-2757

rb.gy/plzi8

Admission fee applies

Friday, July 14

Family Friday $R

4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

A night of family fun at the waterpark

Aqua Adventure Waterpark

40500 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont

(510) 494-4426

rb.gy/3c78g

Saturday, July 15

Birds of the Farm

8:00 am – 9:30 am

Explore the farm while looking for migratory birds.

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(888) 327-2757

Admission fee applies

Saturday, July 15

Ohlone Cultures Events Table

10:00 am – 11:00 am

Learn about the rich cultural history of the Ohlone peoples

Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3245

rb.gy/q9yc6

Parking fee applies

Saturday, July 15

Party H.A.R.D in the Park R

10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Free family fun day with health and wellness activities

Weekes Community Center Park

27182 Patrick Ave., Hayward

(510) 881-6700

rb.gy/2gmag

Saturday, July 15 – Sunday, July 16

SACBC’s 57th Annual Japanese Bazaar

Saturday 11:00 am – 7:00 pm

Sunday 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Food, games, entertainment, silent auctions and more!

Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church (SACBC)

32975 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City

www.SACBC.org

(510) 471- 2581

Saturday, July 15

Campfire Program: Birds of the Bay

8:30 pm – 9:30 pm

Enjoy birdsong and explore bird habits

Dumbarton Quarry Campground

9400 Quarry Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

rb.gy/8i4zw

Parent participation required.

For ages 5+

Parking fee applies

Saturday, July 15

Gardening Series: Composting and Vermicomposting

11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Hear from an UC Master Gardener about Composting and Vermicomposting

Newark Public Library

37055 Newark Blvd., Newark

(510) 284-0675

rb.gy/8jak3

ne***********@ac*******.org

Saturday, July 15

Kiddos’ Chu Chu Train Rides

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Trackless trains with lights, whistles, and smoke

Fremont Hub courtyard near Five Below

Fremont Hub

39281 Fremont Hub, Fremont

Saturday, July 15

Niles Dog Show R

10:00 am – 3:00 pm

Registration at 9 a.m.

Lighthearted competition classes, family fun, food, and vendor booths

Registration fee for some competitions

Niles Community Park

37697 Third Street, Fremont

(510) 857-6512

rb.gy/s8whi

dogshow@niles/org

Saturday, July 15

2023 Comedy in the Plaza

5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

A free public event hosted by Brian Copeland

Ages 13 and up

San Leandro Library

300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro

(510) 577-3970

rb.gy/cvdgu

Saturday, July 15

Family Fun Day – Teddy Bear Picnic $R

12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Bring your favorite stuffed animal, lunch, and a blanket to learn about the animals at the Center.

Sulphur Creek Nature Center

1801 D St., Hayward

(510) 881-6747

Garret Moore art show opening reception

Saturday, July 15

3:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Fanciful works in digital illustration and AI

Louie-Meager Art Gallery

Smith Center at Ohlone College

www.facebook.com/GarretMMoore

garretmoore.com

Sunday, July 16

Reptile Meet & Greet

2:00 pm – 2:30 pm

Crawl, slither, or glide on over for an encounter with wildlife

Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3245

rb.gy/bi2rw

Parking fee applies

Sunday, July 16

Wooden Railroad Car Restoration

12:30 pm – 1:00 pm

Meet the curator of the railroad museum at Ardenwood

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(888) 327-2757, (510) 544-

2797

rb.gy/79253

Admission fee applies

Sunday, July 16

Sunday Oscar Movies @ the Library

1:30 pm – 3:30 pm

A showing of the Oscar nominated film Mrs. Harris goes to Paris (2022)

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

rb.gy/vttwz

Sunday, July 16

Who are You? Owl Edition

10:00 am – 10:30 am

Learn more about the owls in the Bay Area and beyond

Coyote Hills Visitors Center

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

rb.gy/lqnf7

Parking fee applies

Tuesday, July 18

Science for Kids: My Eyes are Playi
ng Tricks!

Learn how to do tricks and illusions

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1400

rb.gy/z2i0m

Ages 6+

Tickets available 15 minutes prior to event

Bring empty water bottle for more fun

Tuesday, July 18

Read to a Dog

Children of all ages read to trained therapy dogs

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1400

rb.gy/oe90t

fr**************@ac*******.org

Tickets available 15 minutes prior to start.

Summer Concerts

Milpitas Summer Concert Series

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Free admission

July 21

Jordan T

Pinewood Park

Starlite Dr. & Lonetree Ct.

August 4

Billy Martini Show

Milpitas Sports Center Complex

1325 E Calaveras Blvd.

August 5

Other People’s Money

Milpitas Sports Center Complex

1325 E Calaveras Blvd.

www.milpitas.gov/milpitas/departments/recreation-services

Groovin’ at the Grove

Fridays; 5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

4 p.m. Gates Open

Bring a blanket or low-backed chair

July 14

5 p.m. Randy Lira’s All-Stars

6 p.m. Evolution

July 28

5 p.m. OMT Band

6 p.m. Tortilla Soup

Shirley Sisk Grove, NewPark Mall

2086 NewPark Mall Rd., Newark

https://www.newark.org/

Pacific Commons Summer Concerts

Fourth Fridays

7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

July 28 – Neon Velvet

August 25 – East Bay Mudd

September 22 – The Cheeseballs

The Block near Koja Kitchen

43440 Boscell Rd., Fremont

pacificcommons.com

Central Park Summer Concert Series

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

July 13 – Melody Makers

July 20 – Pride & Joy

July 27 – Touch of Class

August 3 – Idea Band

August 10 – Flock of Seagirls

Central Park Performance Pavilion

40204 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont

(510) 790-5541

www.fremont.gov

Niles Concerts on the Plaza

Saturdays; 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

August 5 – The Coffis Brothers with Anthony Arya

September 9 – David Luning with The Hurricane Roses

Octover 7 – Jinx Jones & the Kingtones with Three on the Tree

Niles Town Plaza

37592 Niles Blvd., Fremont

niles.org

H.A.R.D and Hayward Odd Fellows Summer Concert Series

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Sundays, August 6 – September 24

(no concert September 3)

Hayward Memorial Park

24176 Mission Blvd., Hayward

Summer Outdoor Movies

Movie Night Out

8:30 p.m.

$10; register ahead of time

July 14

Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank

Peter Gill Memorial Park

Santa Rita Dr. & Paseo Refugio

July 28

Ant Man & the Wasp

Higuera Adobe Park

Wessex Pl., Milpitas

www.milpitas.gov

Family Movie Nights

Bring lawn chairs, blankets, snacks

July 28

Minions: Rise of Gru

7 p.m.

Farrelly Pool

$3 pre-registration, $6 at the door

August 8

8 p.m.

Hotel Transylvania: Transformania

Washington Manor Park

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

Free Outdoor Movies

8 p.m.

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

July 21

DC League of Super Pets

San Lorenzo Community Park

August 18

Turning Red

Castro Valley Community Park

September 8

Hotel Transylvania 4

Meek Park

www.haywardrec.org

Bark After Dark

8 p.m.

Bring low-back chairs and/or blankets. Pets must remain on leashes

July 14

Air Bud

July 21

Disney’s Bolt

July 28

Lady and the Tramp

Kennedy Community Park

1333 Decoto Rd., Union City

Classic Movies Under the Stars

$5 Barbara Lee Senior Center Member; $10 Non-Member

Register online or at the Senior Center

July 21

8:30 p.m.

A League of Their Own

Cardoza Park

August 18

8:30 p.m.

Grease (1978)

Barbara Lee Senior Center

www.milpitas.gov