Get ready to take your own road to wellness
By Stephanie Gertsch
On Saturday, July 29, Washington Hospital in Fremont will hold their first “Road to Wellness Family Health Fair.” This summer’s event highlights key health information for individuals of all ages in an upbeat and family-friendly atmosphere. The Road to Family Health Fair is one of many ways that Washington Hospital meets the needs of the community identified in their 2023 Community Health Needs Assessment.
The event will feature a health fair with 25 partner agencies sharing important local resources and educational exercises, like how to effectively wash hands and the importance of having a first aid kit in the home. Washington Hospital’s Sports Medicine Team will demonstrate proper throwing techniques and challenge attendees to see how fast they can pitch a baseball or softball. As people visit booths and complete different activities and challenges, they can get an event passport stamped and turn it in to enter a raffle.
The 2023 assessment highlighted diabetes, heart health, and obesity as some key health needs.
As part of the fair attendees will be able to get free health checks from hospital staff, including blood sugar and cholesterol testing, and blood pressure checks. For kids, encouraging movement is crucial for long term health, so Bike East Bay will be holding a free Bike Rodeo where kids can have a helmet fitted and learn the basics of how to bike safely. To register for a 30- to 45-minute workshop, sign up on the Eventbrite listing (search Bike East Bay).
Of course, kids will also enjoy investigating the 15 community vehicles on site, including a fire truck, ambulance, police vehicles, garbage truck, AC transit zero emission vehicle, and Fremont’s Mobile Hygiene Unit. In other vehicle-centered fun, City of Fremont Recreation Services is volunteering their mini train for the fair, so kids can take free rides.
On the entertainment side, there will also be free face painting and balloon animals, and different groups will perform throughout the day—starting with Music for Minors II and finishing with The Dream Achievers, a band made up of members on the autism spectrum.
Kayla Gupta, Community Outreach Manager and event coordinator for the fair, shares, “Having a way to connect with our community and share information on these important topics, is something we’re always excited to do as a community hospital. This is just one of many events and education pieces Washington Hospital does to connect to community members and make sure they have the information they need to live a healthy life.”
Guests arriving by car are encouraged to park at the Fremont Office Center on Civic Center Drive. Signs and volunteers will direct traffic. ADA accessible parking will be available at Washington West.
Read the full Community Health Needs Assessment at whhs.com/CHNA.
Road to Wellness Family Health Fair
Saturday, Jul 29
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Performance Schedule
10:30 a.m. Opening remarks
10:45 a.m. Music for Minors II
11:15 a.m. Bay Philharmonic Youth Orchestra
12:15 p.m. Magic Show
1:00 p.m. The Dream Achievers
Event Location
Washington West Parking Lot
2500 Mowry Ave., Fremont
Free Parking
Fremont Office Center
39300 Civic Center Dr., Fremont
www.whhs.com/events
Mindful Abstract Watercolor
By Lina Melkonian
Fremont Art Association (FAA) is delighted to have Luz Donahue as the guest artist at its virtual General Meeting and Art Demo on Wednesday, August 2.
Donahue is an abstract expressionist painter. Her creations draw upon the complexities of our world and the ephemeral nature of our existence. Her work is distinguished by her passion for exploration and observation, introspection and reflection, and healing. In her demo, “Mindful Abstract Watercolor,” Donahue will showcase her meditative creative process revealing how she paints her watercolor abstractions layer by layer allowing her emotions and intuition to lead the way.
Born in San José, Costa Rica, Donahue moved to the US with her family at the age of ten. This early uprooting, her ADHD and a debilitating arm injury have informed and fueled her fierce independence, originality, and entrepreneurial mindset. Today, these attributes serve as the cornerstones of both her creative and digital marketing consulting practices.
Donahue’s remarkable autobiographical work chronicles, in multiple layers of watercolor abstractions, the distinct emotions and thoughts contained in specific moments of her life. Her paintings capture the vastness of her inner world and her relationship to the external world. It’s astonishing that Donahue may have, in progress, over a hundred pieces of work at various stages of completion.
As part of her art practice, Donahue enjoys teaching mindfulness through her abstract watercolor workshops. She inspires students to unleash and cultivate their creativity through purposeful silencing of their inner critic and spurs them toward a state of flow and unexpected insights. She believes this process in accessing creativity can apply to endeavors beyond painting.
You may view Donahue’s work at:
www.instagram.com/luzdonahueart/
The demo (free to attend) will be held via Zoom. Participants must register in advance and will receive the Zoom link via email. All details may be found on the Fremont Art Association webpage: www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo.
FAA General Meeting and Art Demo
Wednesday, Aug 2
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Register at: www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo
National Night Out celebrates 40th year
By Staff
In 2023, National Night Out (NNO) will be celebrated its 40th year. Held the first Tuesday in August, the family-friendly event encourages neighbors to get to know each other, educates about crime prevention and safety tips, and strengthens partnerships between community members and law enforcement. Learn more about NNO at https://natw.org/, and read what local cities are d
oing below.
East Bay Regional Park District
The park district will be holding its first-ever National Night Out at Lake Chabot. Families are encouraged to come and talk with first responders, meet police horses, see fire trucks, visit with park naturalists, enjoy hot dogs and snacks, and stroll around the lake.
EBRPD National Night Out
Tuesday, Aug 1
4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Lake Chabot Regional Park
17600 Lake Chabot Rd., Castro Valley
Fremont
Blocks and neighborhoods around Fremont will be holding parties for National Night Out. Police will be visiting registered parties between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.
https://www.fremontpolice.gov/community/events/national-night-out
Hayward
Hayward neighborhoods will be hosting events from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. ranging from potlucks and barbecues to large block parties. Police and other City of Hayward representatives will be stopping by registered parties to say hello. Residents who want to show their support can also leave their porch light on between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m.
https://www.hayward-ca.gov/police-department
Milpitas
Milpitas will be holding neighborhood parties on Tuesday, August 1 for National Night Out (sponsored nationally by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by Milpitas Police Department), with the goal of building community and heightening crime prevention awareness.
https://www.milpitas.gov/157/Police
Newark
Citizens, neighborhoods, apartment complexes, and businesses in Newark are participating in National Night Out between 6:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Police and fire departments will be conducing public safety visits for registered events.
www.newark.org/departments/police/get-involved-community-engagement/national-night-out
San Leandro
City of San Leandro Office of Sustainability’s Resilience Hubs Initiative is partnering with the San Leandro Manor Branch Library for a National Night Out gathering. Join for free food and kids’ activities, meet neighbors, and learn more about new Library programming, including the native garden demonstration project with Homegrown Habitats, and resilience around climate impacts.
Manor Library National Night Out
Tuesday, Aug 1
5:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Washington Manor Resilience Hub
15634 Hebron Ct., San Leandro
www.sanleandro.org
Union City
Union City Police Department is celebrating National Night Out at Union Landing Shopping Center near Texas Roadhouse Restaurant. Local businesses and community groups will partner with crisis intervention teams, first responders, and law enforcement for a night of fun festivities. Learn about safety awareness and preventing theft of autos and electronic devices.
Union City National Night Out
Tuesday, Aug 1
4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
32115 Union Landing Blvd., Union City
www.unioncity.org/677/Police
Keep plants thriving despite the heat of summer
By Melinda Myers
Photos courtesy of MelindaMyers.com
Last year’s record-high temperatures across much of the country took a toll on gardens and landscapes. Once again, above-normal summer temperatures are in the forecast for many regions of the country. Adjusting how you manage your gardens and landscape can help plants thrive as temperatures rise.
Water plants thoroughly to promote deep drought-tolerant roots that help boost the plants’ pest resistance. Wait until the top few inches of soil are crumbly and moist before watering most plants. Newly planted perennials, trees, and shrubs need more attention and water than drought-tolerant plants or established ones with more robust root systems that are better able to absorb more moisture. During extended dry periods, even drought-tolerant and established plants may need supplemental water.
Water early in the day to reduce water lost to evaporation. Avoid late evening watering that leaves foliage wet at night, increasing the risk of disease.
Apply water directly to the soil above the plant roots using soaker hoses or drip irrigation whenever possible. Water is applied where needed and the slow, steady flow of water is better able to infiltrate the soil and moisten the roots with less runoff.
Check soil moisture daily in container gardens and several times a week for raised beds. Both dry out more quickly than in-ground gardens and need to be watered more often. Save time and water by incorporating Wild Valley Farms’wool pellets into the growing mixes. This sustainable product is made from wool waste. University research found it reduced watering by up to 25% and increased air space in the soil, promoting healthy plant growth.
Further conserve water by spreading a two- to three-inch layer of shredded leaves, evergreen needles, or shredded bark mulch over the soil in garden beds and around trees and shrubs. Mulching conserves moisture, keeps roots cooler and moist, and suppresses weeds. As the organic mulch decomposes, it adds nutrients and organic matter to the soil. Just pull the mulch away from tree trunks, shrub stems, and the crowns of other plants to avoid rot.
Incorporate organic matter like compost into the soil. It helps the soil accept and retain water so you will need to water less often. It also adds nutrients to the soil so over time you will need to fertilize less often. Use a low-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer if your garden plants need a nutrient boost. These types of fertilizers release small amounts of nutrients over an extended period. The low level of nitrogen reduces the risk of damaging heat-stressed plants.
Include plants that are more tolerant of the weather conditions in your area. Those that tolerate both heat and cold extremes will thrive with less care once established. Remove weeds from garden beds and borders as soon as they appear. These “plants out of place” steal water and nutrients from your desirable garden plants. Plus, many harbor insects and diseases that are harmful to your garden plants.
Provide stressed plants with a bit of shade from the hot afternoon sun. Container gardens can be moved to a more suitable spot during heat waves. Add a bit of temporary shade to garden plants that are struggling to survive in the blazing hot sun. A strategically placed chair, lattice, or umbrella may be all that is needed. As temperatures drop, you can move plants back in place and remove the temporary shade.
Your garden will greatly benefit from these changes to your summer garden care.
Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the recently released Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” instant video and DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Wild Valley Farms for her expertise to write this article. Myers’ website is www.MelindaMyers.com.
Donate to Community Closet
Submitted by Studio 11
On Saturday, July 29, Studio 11 will hold another “Community Closet” event where people can drop off their no-longer-needed but still-in-good-condition clothes, or pick up some essentials free of charge. Free men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, shoes, accessories, will be available, as well as free children’s books and worksheets.
For this July event, free backpacks and school supplies will be distributed while supplies last.
For clothing donations, contact Sofia Dangerfield at [email protected]; for backpack and school supplies donations contact Miguel Ramirez at [email protected].
Community Closet
Saturday, Jul 29
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Studio 11
34626 11th St., Union City
www.unioncity.org/192/Community-Recreation-Services
Cornell Carter performs for Castro Valley Arts Foundation
Submitted by Terry Liebowitz
Celebrate summer and the beginning of the Castro Valley Arts Foundation 2023-24 Concert Series as we kick off the season with Soul singer/songwriter Cornell C.C. Carter and his seven-piece band. On Saturday, August 12, at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts, arrive early for dinner on the theater patio, catered by Sacred Pig Barbeque, 21st Amendment, and Drake’s Brewing Co.
Cornell has opened for the legendary James Brown and Ray Charles and recorded and performed with Carlos Santana. He has three albums of original music. This spring, Cornell’s latest single, “It’s So Nice,” garnered the #1 spot on the UK Soul charts.
Born in Berkeley and raised in San Francisco, Cornell performs extensively in the United Kingdom and Europe. Cornell shares, “Europeans have a real love for Soul music. I found a huge community of musicians and fans for my music.” The first time he performed in England he was “blown away” by the audience’s reaction to American Soul. “It is every artist’s dream to be so welcomed.”
Visit: cvartsfoundation.org/shows/ for show tickets and https://www.cvcfa.com/bbq for dinner tickets.
Cornell C.C. Carter
Saturday, Aug 12
Pre-show dinner: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Show: 7:30 p.m.
Castro Valley Center for the Arts
19501 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
cvartsfoundation.org
Tickets: Show $44-48; Dinner $18-30
Douglas Morrison Summer Concert
Submitted by Emma Smith
The Douglas Morrison Theater Chorus will present their summer concert, Music of the Americas, on Friday, August 4 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, August 6 at 2 p.m. at the Douglas Morrisson Theater.
The program features the works of Irving Berlin, Oscar Hammerstein, and Jerome Kern. The songs range from patriotic to romantic, with a splash of Motown and rhythms from Cuba, Jamaica, and Brazil. Performances by talented soloists add to the fun of this popular concert. Director Cesar Cancino’s direction, musical knowledge, and sense of humor enhances the experience.
Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate great music in our own backyard!
Tickets can be purchased at the HARD offices (1099 E St. Hayward) or online at www.haywardrec.org. Call (510) 881-6700 for assistance if needed. Tickets will not be available at the door.
Music of the Americas
Friday, Aug 4 – Sunday, Aug 6
Fri: 8 p.m.
Sun: 2 p.m.
Douglas Morrisson Theater
11311 Third St., Hayward
www.haywardrec.org
Park District hosts first-ever National Night Out at Lake Chabot
Submitted by Jen Vanya
Join us for an exciting evening of community bonding and fun at Lake Chabot. The East Bay Regional Park District is hosting its first-ever National Night Out, where parkgoers are invited to come together to celebrate and strengthen our community ties. All are welcome to this FREE event. Registration on Eventbrite is encouraged, but not required to attend. (Search East Bay Regional Park District).
Bring your family, friends and neighbors for a fun night out in the park. Enjoy some of the following activities: first responders talk, police horses, fire trucks, peace pole viewing, photo booth, hot dogs & refreshments, kid activities, live DJ.
Take this opportunity to meet the Park District’s public safety officers, firefighters, lifeguards, and park rangers who are instrumental in keeping our community safe. Visit with Park District naturalists at the Mobile Visitor Center and learn about the nature exhibits on display. Stroll around Lake Chabot and enjoy the lake’s serene beauty.
The Lake Chabot Marina Café will be open extended hours for dinner, snacks, ice cream, and more. Parking fees will be waived for the event starting at 3 p.m.
Don’t miss out on this special event promoting unity, safety, and a sense of belonging. Together, we are making communities safer, more caring places to live.
EBRPD National Night Out
Tuesday, Aug 1
4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Lake Chabot Regional Park
17600 Lake Chabot Rd., Castro Valley
www.ebparks.org/nno
Kaiser Permanente recognized for their commitment to cardiac and stroke patients
Submitted By Kaiser Permanente
The American Heart Association recognized 21 Kaiser Permanente Northern California hospitals with awards for their commitment to delivering high-quality cardiac and stroke care that follows nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability. Severe heart attacks in Kaiser Permanente Northern California patients have been reduced by 72% using a team-based, preventive approach.
A few Kaiser Permanente Northern California hosp
itals receiving both the Get With The Guidelines – Heart Failure and the Get With The Guidelines – Stroke awards include Fremont, Oakland, Redwood City, Richmond, San Jose, San Leandro, San Rafael, Santa Clara, Vacaville, Vallejo, and Walnut Creek and more.
“This recognition is a tribute to the collective expertise of our physicians, nurses, and staff who provide comprehensive cardiac care and treatment for our patients and members,” said Maria Ansari, MD, FACC, CEO and executive director of The Permanente Medical Group. “Our reduction in cardiovascular events continues to surpass the nation in quality outcomes, as our cardiologists, physicians, and care teams work across specialties and locations to consistently deliver the highest quality care to our patients and members, who are living longer and healthier lives as a result of these efforts.”
Kaiser Permanente Northern California caregivers have reduced severe heart attacks by 72% using a team-based, preventive approach, according to Kaiser Permanente’s Northern California Division of Research. Kaiser Permanente members are 33% less likely to experience premature death due to heart disease, Elizabeth A. McGlynn, PhD, et al., “Measuring Premature Mortality Among Kaiser Permanente Members Compared to the Community,” Kaiser Permanente, July 20, 2022.
“Our Kaiser Permanente Northern California teams of cardiac specialists collaborate seamlessly to coordinate diagnosis, treatment, and recovery of our patients,” said Carrie Owen Plietz, FACHE, president of Kaiser Permanente’s Northern California region. “We are helping our members and patients with heart disease live longer, healthier lives through our comprehensive care and support.”
The Get With The Guidelines – Heart Failure award is earned by meeting specific quality achievement measures for the diagnosis and treatment of heart failure patients at a set level for a designated period. These measures include evaluation of the proper use of medications and aggressive risk-reduction therapies. Before discharge, patients should also receive education on managing their heart failure and overall health, get a follow-up visit scheduled, as well as other care transition interventions.
The Get With The Guidelines – Stroke award is earned by meeting specific quality achievement measures for the diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients at a set level for a designated period. These measures include evaluation of the proper use of medications and other stroke treatments aligned with the most up-to-date, evidence-based guidelines with the goal of speeding recovery and reducing death and disability for stroke patients. Before discharge, patients should also receive education on managing their health, get a follow-up visit scheduled, as well as other care transition interventions.
About Get With The Guidelines®
Get With The Guidelines® is the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s hospital-based quality improvement program that provides hospitals with the latest research-based guidelines. Developed with the goal of saving lives and hastening recovery, Get With The Guidelines has touched the lives of more than 12 million patients since 2001. For more information, visit heart.org.
Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area
By Jack Alcorn
A quarry lake is a lake that is formed after a quarry has been dug for a mining operation. Overtime, groundwater seeps in and rainwater collects in a reclaimed quarry. The depth of a quarry lake is dependent upon rainfall in the region.
Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area got its name from the quarries established in Fremont in the mid 19th century. Gravel was taken from the banks of Alameda Creek, creating the quarry, and used in the construction of the transcontinental railroad’s western section in this part of California.
A decade of reclamation and construction by East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD), in partnership with Alameda County Water District (ACWD), brought Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area to the public in 2002.
The park is a beautiful water-oriented recreation area, which offers boating, swimming and fishing. Hiking and wildlife viewing also attract lots of people to the spacious grounds that contain many picnic and event areas. A system of several connected lakes and waterways comprise 350 of the park’s 471 acres.
Fishing is permitted in Horseshoe Lake and Rainbow Lake. A California Fishing License is required for all anglers age 16 and above. An EBRPD Daily Fishing Access Permit is also required for all anglers age 16 and over. The Daily Fishing Access Permit may be purchased at the park entry kiosk. Horseshoe Lake is stocked with trout and catfish.
A boat launch ramp makes the lakes easy to enter and exit. Sailboards; stand-up paddle boards; canoes; kayaks; and boats with electric-powered motors may be launched into Horseshoe Lake from the boat ramp. All watercraft must be inspected prior to launching. Gas powered boat motors are not permitted in the park.
All ages can swim at the designated white sandy beach. The swimming area has lifeguard service and restrooms. Contact the park to confirm the current summer schedule.
Visitors to Quarry Lakes can hike, observe nature, walk dogs and ride bicycles around Willow Slough and Lago Los Osos, and the areas surrounding those waterways. Water contact is not allowed in these areas. Dogs must always be kept on leash throughout the entire park.
The Park’s trails connect to the Alameda Creek regional trails. The entire hiking/biking network accessible from Quarry Lakes extends eastward to Niles Canyon and westward to Coyote Hills and Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge on the San Francisco Bay.
Quarry Lakes features gardens that provide horticulture planting demonstrations. The gardens were inspired by local nurseries and flowering fruit trees in the region. Explore subtropical flora; exotic conifer; rare fruit trees and a butterfly habitat.
The park has ample picnic sites with tables and barbecues. Reservable sites are also available including shaded pavilions that accommodate up to 200 people each.
Accessibility
There is a wheelchair accessible fishing pier at Horseshoe Lake. All the facilities at the Niles beach area, Ensenada Pavilion area, and Orchard picnic area are wheelchair accessible. The Rock picnic area has wheelchair accessible bathrooms and a drinking fountain, but no parking.
The swimming area has a free beach wheelchair, that provides a way for wheelchair users to travel across the beach.
Quarry Lakes park entrance is located at 2100 Isherwood Way in Fremont. Parking and user fees apply. For more information or reservations visit www.ebparks.org/parks/quarry-lakes or call 888-EBPARKS (888-327-2757), option 3, extension 4552.
Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area
2100 Isherwood Way, Fremont
Roll into decades past on Retro Night
Submitted by Milpitas Recreation and Community Services
If you’re a fan of the 70s, 80s, 90s, or 2000s, enter the “way back” machine and join “Retro Milpitas” on Friday, August 4 and Saturday, August 5
at Milpitas Sports Center Complex! Celebrate a vintage vibe of local historical family fun with Cal Skate, Splashdown, and more.
Theme decades shift based on the day, so check which era fits your style before heading out. Friday will celebrate the 1970s and 80s, with a live concert from the Billy Martini show starting at 6:30 p.m. Saturday will be all about the 1990s and 2000s, with a live concert from Other People’s Money (also starting at 6:30 p.m.) In addition, Saturday will have a skateboard competition.
Events slated for both days include free kids’ activities and lawn games, DJ music, food trucks (snacks for purchase), decade best costume contests, skate rink (for purchase), and activity area with water slides, video games, mini golf, etc. (for purchase).
Retro Night
Friday, Aug 4 – Saturday, Aug 5
10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Milpitas Sports Center Complex
1325 E. Calaveras Blvd., Milpitas
(408) 586-3210
www.milpitas.gov/180/Recreation-Community-Services
Reserve skate session: bit.ly/retromilpitas
Skate rink sessions: $13-$25
Activity area tickets: $10
The Story of San Lorenzo
By Jack Alcorn
Photo by Jim Heaphy
San Lorenzo is a census-designated place (CDP) located in an unincorporated section of Alameda County. It is bordered by the incorporated cities of San Leandro to the north and Hayward to the south. The 2020 census recorded the population of San Lorenzo as 29,581 people.
A land grant given to Guillermo (“Don”) Castro in 1841 led to the creation of Camino Viejo, a 19th century route that led California travelers through the San Lorenzo area.
Hordes of California Gold Rush miners came through the area after the Sonora “big strikes” of 1849. Located along the banks of San Lorenzo Creek, the flatland was originally named Squattersville in 1851. Many miners passing through set up temporary camps near the creek and some stayed to homestead there. The community later renamed the site San Lorenzo.
The early homesteaders had modest farms with small herds of livestock. They grew fruits, flowers and vegetables for Bay Area markets. A family home built in 1859 by entrepreneur William Roberts still stands on Lewelling Boulevard in central San Lorenzo.
In 1944 The David D. Bohannon Company began construction of San Lorenzo Village. The development was one of the nation’s first planned communities, with parcels designated for schools, churches, parks, and several retail centers. Bohannon’s pioneering pre-cutting techniques, referred to as the “California method” set a precedent for suburban tract-home construction all across California.
Home construction continued into the 1950’s to accommodate the region’s booming population. Workers from thriving East Bay ship yards, canneries, foundries and other industries spawned by WWII flocked to the modern two and three bedroom homes going up in San Lorenzo.
Many of the early inhabitants are buried in San Lorenzo Pioneer Cemetery, including Moses Wicks, who initiated oyster farming along the San Lorenzo coast of the Bay. The Hayward Area Historical Society and Alameda County maintain the old cemetery on Hesperian Boulevard.
HISTORY MATTERS
July 16 to July 31
By John Grimaldi and David Bruce Smith
Dare Devil Pilots
America’s “dare devils” of the skies pack the history of aviation. The Wright brothers, for example, invented the airplane and flew the first powered flight in 1903, while other risk takers — Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart — piloted solo and non-stop across the Atlantic in 1927 and 1932, respectively.
And then there was Douglas Corrigan: an aircraft mechanic who salvaged an airplane from a trash heap, restored it, and soared from California to New York. He anticipated a transatlantic journey, but the authorities quashed it.
Even so, on July 17, 1938, Corrigan took off–allegedly for California, but reversed course, turned east, crossed the Atlantic, and ended up in Ireland 28 hours later. Afterwards, he was –famously—known as “Wrong Way” Corrigan.
The Apollo Space Missions
On July 20, 1969, the astronaut Neil Armstrong took “one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” when he set foot on the moon became the first human to reach an extraterrestrial destination, and—also–satisfy President John F. Kennedy’s 1961 promise to the nation.
The achievement was challenging but according to History.com “NASA and its thousands of workers forged ahead, and in October 1968, Apollo 7, the first manned Apollo mission, orbited Earth and successfully tested many of the sophisticated systems needed to conduct a moon journey and landing. In December of the same year, Apollo 8 took three astronauts around the far side of the moon and orbited it 10 times before returning, and in March 1969 Apollo 9 tested the lunar module for the first time while in Earth orbit. Then in May, the three astronauts of Apollo 10 took the first complete Apollo spacecraft in 31 orbits around the moon in a dry run for the scheduled July landing mission.” And so, on July 16, “Apollo 11 took off from Kennedy Space Center with astronauts Neil Armstrong, Edwin Aldrin Jr., and Michael Collins aboard.”
The Space Race
On October 4, 1957, the Soviet Union launched Sputnik, followed in January by America’s Explorer I. In July, Congress established the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), a civilian agency responsible for coordinating the country’s interstellar activities. The competitive chase to conquer the cosmos had begun.
According to History.com, “by landing on the moon, the United States effectively ‘won’ the space race that had begun with Sputnik’s launch in 1957. For their part, the Soviets made four failed attempts to launch a lunar landing craft between 1969 and 1972, including a spectacular launch-pad explosion in July 1969. From beginning to end, the American, Soviet and U.S. space programs were heavily covered in the national media. This frenzy of interest was further encouraged by the new medium of television. Astronauts came to be seen as the ultimate American heroes, and earth-bound men and women seemed to enjoy living vicariously through them. Soviets, in turn, were pictured as the ultimate villains, with their massive, relentless efforts to surpass America and prove the power of the communist system.”
News and notes from around the world
Submitted by The Association of Mature American Citizens
A Golden birthday party
They came from all corners of the earth to attend a birthday party at Guisachan House in the village of Glen Affric in the Scottish Highlands recently. The event was held to celebrate the birth of the first litter of Golden Retrievers
155 years ago. The event attracted 466 dogs and their owners. According to the Golden Retriever Club of Scotland, “the Golden as we know it today was bred at Guisachan, Glen Affric, near Inverness, the Scottish Estate of Lord Tweedmouth, from a series of matings which commenced by mating a good looking yellow coloured Flat Coated Retriever with a Tweed Water Spaniel called ‘Belle’ (a breed now extinct but believed to be a small liver coloured dog with a curly coat).” See the golden birthday party on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdgUTEnV1dM
But it’s not a ‘real’ burger
Burger King has cheered up vegetarians with its newest fast-food offering: a meatless hamburger sandwich. So far, it’s available in its stores in Thailand, only, and it is being called the “real cheeseburger” because the bun is filled with at least 20 slices of American cheese, but no burger, and it has gone viral throughout the country. At least one Thai Burger King location has had to curtail deliveries in order to ensure availability at its store. But not all customers think it is a tasty treat. One patron told CNN it’s a bit too much cheese. “I could only finish half of it,” she said. See a video of the ultra-cheesy sandwich at https://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2023/07/12/thailand-Burger-King-real-cheeseburger-20-slices-American-cheese/6121689179090/
Home is where you make it
Thinking about moving to Nebraska? If so, you might want to check out a rather unusual residence– a renovated missile silo. YouTube’s Andrew Flair purchased the nuclear bunker last year for $550,000 and turned it into a 2,000 square foot underground home. It’s listed for sale for $750,000 as “an opportunity to own a piece of cold-war military history and the ultimate survivalist retreat, weekend escape or perhaps an Airbnb.” And it comes, “complete with electricity, hot and cold running water, working septic system with lift station, and a water purification system.” See the renovated bunker on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iLkpW0Ys4y4
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.
Social Security Matters
By Russell Gloor, National Social Security Advisor, AMAC Foundation
Ask Rusty – Will WEP and GPO Affect My Wife’s Spousal Benefit?
Dear Rusty: My wife worked for the US Postal Service in New York for about 22 years, and then in the private sector for about 15 years. She began collecting her “deferred annuity” from the USPS at age 62 and she plans to collect her Social Security benefits at age 67, which is her full retirement age (FRA).
Her Social Security benefit before the Windfall Elimination Provision is less than 50% of my Primary Insurance Amount, so the plan is for her to start collecting a “spousal” benefit from me at age 67. My question is: Will my wife’s spousal benefit be reduced by both the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset (GPO)?Signed: Inquiring Husband
Dear Inquiring Husband: Your wife cannot separate her personally earned Social Security retirement benefit from her Social Security spousal entitlement from you – whenever she applies for Social Security, your wife will be automatically deemed to be filing for all benefits she is entitled to when she claims.
Because your wife has a “non-covered pension” from the US Postal Service (USPS)—and assuming that pension is under the older “CSRS” (Civil Service Retirement System)—your wife’s personally earned SS retirement benefit will be reduced by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). WEP reduces Social Security retirement benefits for anyone who also has a pension earned while not contributing to Social Security.
The Government Pension Offset (GPO) is different: The GPO will affect any additional amount your wife is entitled to as your spouse, which we refer to as her “spousal boost.” The “spousal boost” amount is the difference between your wife’s pre-WEP FRA entitlement and 50% of your FRA entitlement, which is your Primary Insurance Amount. Because of her USPS pension, GPO will reduce your wife’s “spousal boost” by 2/3rds of the amount of her non-covered pension, which may eliminate her potential spousal boost.
So WEP will affect your wife’s personally earned SS benefit, and the GPO will affect her spousal entitlement from you. But, depending on the amount of her USPS pension, your wife will not be entitled to an additional amount as your spouse if two-thirds of her USPS pension amount is more than her “spousal boost” amount. And if the GPO doesn’t completely eliminate your wife’s spousal boost, it will at least drastically reduce it.
I have previously published several articles about both WEP and GPO and how each provision works, which you are welcome to review at the AMAC Foundation’s special Social Security website—www.SocialSecurityReport.org. In particular, one such article providing more detail on how the GPO works can be found at this link:www.socialsecurityreport.org/ask-rusty-government-pension-offset-gpo/.
Social Security will make the final determination about your wife’s benefit entitlement under WEP and GPO when she applies for her Social Security benefits, but I’m afraid your wife’s entitlement may be much less than you are anticipating because of these two provisions. If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact us directly via email at [email protected] or call us directly at 1 (888) 750-2622.
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 [email protected].
State Treasurer Fiona Ma appoints David Teykaerts as CalSavers Executive Director
Submitted by Office of the State Treasurer
State Treasurer Fiona Ma announced the appointment of David Teykaerts as the Executive Director of the CalSavers Retirement Savings Board (CalSavers)
, California’s retirement savings program designed to ensure all Californians have access to a workplace retirement savings account.
Teykaerts most recently served as the Interim Chief of Stakeholder Relations at the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS), the nation’s largest pension fund. As Interim Chief, he led outreach and communications to the pension fund’s many stakeholder groups and advised executive leadership on investment, retirement, and health care policy.
Teykaerts was also responsible for all Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training, Public Records Act requests, and planning and organizing events and major conferences at CalPERS, including the annual Educational Forum, Pathways for Women, and Catalyst: California’s Diverse Investment Manager Forum.
Before becoming chief, Teykaerts served as Assistant Chief of Stakeholder Relations, beginning in May of 2022. In his ten years with CalPERS, Teykaerts worked closely with a wide variety of stakeholders of all levels, including elected officials, professional management representing local governments, labor leaders, school districts, retiree coalitions, and private sector leaders.
From the pilot in 2019 through last year, CalSavers has seen 89.1% of employers respond to the call to action to register for the savings program. With 434,918 funded accounts and $594.6 million in assets under management, CalSavers expects exponential growth with the expansion of the program through state law – granting eligibility to employers with fewer than 5 employees.
In 2012, California was the first state in the nation to pass legislation establishing an automatic enrollment retirement policy for private sector workers who lack access to work-based retirement plans. CalSavers seeks to facilitate the largest expansion of retirement security since the advent of Social Security in the 1930’s and is already a model for a growing number of states seeking to establish a similar program. Learn more at www.calsavers.com.
Fremont City Council
July 11, 2023
Consent Calendar
- Alameda County Behavioral Health Care Services Master Contract – Authorization to execute a contract renewal with Alameda County Behavioral Health for Adolescent Substance Use Disorder Services provided by the Human Services Department’s Youth and Family Services Division for FY 2023/24
- Approval of purchase orders through cooperative agreements with The Ford Store San Leandro for the purchase of Ford fleet vehicles in an amount not to exceed $2,000,000 and with National Auto Fleet Group for the purchase of various make vehicles in an amount not to exceed $900,000
- Approval of service agreement with Safe Moves, Inc. for School-Based Traffic Safety Education services
- Authorization to contract with Alameda County Behavioral Health and La Familia to provide mental health services
- Approve a Professional Services Agreement with Fehr & Peers to develop the city’s active transportation plan
- Consideration and approval of a five-year agreement between the City of Fremont and the Alameda County Fire Department for fire dispatch services through the Regional Emergency Communications Center
- Authorize the fourth amendment on-call tree trimming, maintenance and general groundwork and debris removal agreement with West Coast Arborists to increase contract compensation to support city street sweeping operations
- Approval of Service Agreements with Classic Graphics for Vehicle Repairs for a Four-Year Period and with Stommel Inc., DBA Lehr, for Build-up Services for a Four-Year Period
- Approve an agreement for FY 2023/24 with Alameda County Health Care Services Agency to support human services programs, including the Fremont Family Resource Center Family Support Services program and Youth and Family Services Division’s Why Try Cognitive Behavioral Groups program
- Consideration of an amendment to the employment agreement between City Attorney Rafael E. Alvarado, Jr. and the City of Fremont
- Consideration of an amendment to the employment agreement between City Manager Karena McGee Shackelford and the City of Fremont
Mayor Lily Mei Aye
Vice Mayor Teresa Cox Aye
Raj Salwan Aye
Yang Shao Absent
Teresa Keng Aye
Jenny Kassan Aye
Desrie Campbell Aye
Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (H.A.R.D.)
July 17, 2023
Consent Calendar
- Approval of updated public safety supervisor job description
- Approval of Park Ranger Lead Position and Park Ranger Trainer Incentive
- Approval of the District’s Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity Policy
- Approval of a Habitat Conservation Fund (HCF) Grant Application for the Sulphur Creek Restoration at the D & Clay and 1350 E Streets Park Project
- Retroactive Approval of Vehicles for the Public Safety Division Fleet
- Authorize General Manager to replace District Fleet Vehicles for FY2324
- Transfer of General Fund Restricted Fund Balance to Capital Projects Fund for DMT (Douglas Morrisson Theatre) Improvements
President Rick Hatcher Aye
Paul Hodges Aye
Peter Rosen Aye
Louis Andrade Aye
Sara Lamnin Aye
Newark City Council
July 13, 2023
Public Hearing
- Hearing to consider adopting a resolution to confirm the diagram and assessments and to levy and collect assessment in conjunction with Landscaping and Lighting District Nos. 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19. Passed
Consent Calendar
- Authorize the deletion of one full-time equivalent (FTE) Aquatics Activities Specialist and the addition one FTE Aquatics Coordinator
- Add the class specification of City Engineer and assign salary range 20
- Authorize the deletion of one FTE Assistant City Engineer and the addition of one full FTE City Engineer
- Authorize the addition of one full time Senior Street Maintenance Worker
- Authorize one full time Maintenance Supervisor and Facilities Supervisor
- Authorize a Contractual Services Agreement with LPC Services, Inc. for pest control services for city facilities
- Authorize a Contractual Services Agreement with Applied Landscape Materials, Inc. to install engineered wood material to all city-owned playgrounds
- Authorize an agreement with Alameda County for participation in the Alameda County Urban County Community Development Block Grant program
- Adopt an ordinance repealing and replacing Chapter 3.04 “Purchasing System” of Title 3 “Revenue and Finance” of the Newark Municipal Code in its entirety
- Adopt an ordinance adding chapter 3.05 “Informal Bid Procedures” to Title “Revenue and Finance” of the Newark Municipal Code
- Approve an amendment to Contractual Service Agreement with Patrick Ibarra dba The Mejorando Group to complete employee training services
- Authorize an agreement with All City Management Services, Inc. to provide Crossing Guard Services for the Newark Unified School District
Mayor Michael Hannon Aye
Vice Mayor Sucy Collazo Aye
Luis Freitas Aye
Mike Bucci Aye
Matthew Jorgens Aye
San Leandro City Council
July 17, 2023
Consent Calendar
- Accept the 2022-2023 Third Quarter City of San Leandro Investment Report
- Award a $4,217,305 Construction Contract to Suarez & Munoz Construction, Inc. for Memorial Park Improvements Project
- Authorize Amendment No. 3 to an Existing Consulting Services Agreement with Noll & Tam Architects for Design Services for the Mulford-Marina Branch Library Project
- Authorize Amendment No. 1 for $279,820 to the Consulting Services Agreement with HF&H Consultants, LLC to Provide Technical Assistance with the Procurement Process for Solid Waste Recyclables, and Organics Services Contracting
- Reallocate $800,000 in the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Budget to Citywide Beautification and Community Preservation
- Authorize a Non-Professional Services Agreement with T & S Intermodal Maintenance Inc. for Rehabilitation of the Belt Press Building at the Water Pollution Control Plant
- Authorize an Emergency Construction Contract to McGuire & Hester for the Demolition of the Former Blue Dolphin Restaurant Pier Structure
- Approve Amendment No. 2 to the Master Services Agreement with Visionary Integration Professionals, LLC for Development and Improvements to the Accela Permitting System to increase the total amount by $763,745
- Adopt a Resolution Appropriating Funding for Washington Manor Park Pool Renovation (provides funding for annual maintenance and repairs to the Family Aquatic Center pool, deck, and play equipment)
- Authorize an Emergency Construction Contract for the Lake Chabot Road Upslope Repair Project
- Approve a Master License Agreement with Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC for Small Cell Pole Attachment Installations
Approve the 2023 Councilmembers Handbook
Mayor Juan Gonzalez Aye
Vice Mayor Bryan Azevedo Aye
Celina Reynes Aye
Victor Aguilar Aye
Fred Simon Absent
Xouhoa Bowen Aye
Pete Ballew Aye
Alameda County Fire Log
Submitted by Alameda County Fire Department
Saturday, July 15
- At 8:33 p.m. Alameda County Fire Department (ACFD) responded to a vegetation fire that was approximately three acres located at Cedar Blvd. and Willow St. in the city of Newark. Dozer 17 and crews from Battalion 7 worked quickly to extinguish the fire. There were no injuries reported to community members or firefighters.
- ACFD extinguished a car fire on I-580 near Rowell Ranch in Castro Valley. Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire before it could spread into the vegetation.
Monday, July 17
- ACFD performed a quick knockdown of a room and contents fire at Medford Ave. in Cherryland.
Wednesday, July 19
- At Cambridge Ave. in Cherryland ACFD knocked down an outside fire that extended into a home with no injuries.
BART Police Log
Submitted by BART PD and Les Mensinger
Wednesday, July 12
- At 5:37 a.m. a man identified by police as Jeffrey Remoy, 41, from Concord was contacted at Bay Fair station and was taken into custody. Remoy was booked into the Alameda County jail for false impersonation.
- At 7:53 a.m. a man identified by police as Eric Stewart, 54, from Oakland was contacted at Milpitas station and was taken into custody for an outstanding warrant. Stewart was booked into the Santa Clara County Jail.
- At 9:58 a.m. a woman identified by police as Hailey Mohr, 30, from Concord was taken into custody at Bay Fair station and booked into Alameda County Jail for an arrest warrant.
- At 10:06 a.m. a person identified by police as Lonnie Johnson, 55, from El Sobrante was contacted for fare evasion at the Bay Fair station and taken into custody. Johnson was booked into the Alameda County Jail for an arrest warrant.
Thursday, July 13
- At 6:03 p.m. a man identified by police as Lester Harris, 59, from Oakland was contacted for interfering with train operation at Bay Fair station. Harris was arrested for mental health evaluation and will be booked upon medical clearance.
- At 6:38 p.m. a man identified by police as Gregory Minjarez, 54, of Stockton was contacted for fare evasion to exit the paid area of Bay Fair station. Minjarez was arrested and booked into the Santa Rita Jail for warrants.
- At 11:13 p.m. a man identified
by police as Christopher Boscano, 43, from Oakland was contacted for smoking on the platform at Bay Fair station. Boscano was arrested for hindering the efficient operation of a transit facility and booked into the Santa Rita Jail.
Friday, July 14
- At 1:16 a.m. a person identified by police as Samin Mohamad, 33, from San Ramon was arrested in front of Bay Fair station for narcotics possession and probation violation. Mohamad was booked into the Santa Rita Jail.
- At 1:31 a.m. a person identified by police as Antoine Drummer, 23, from San Francisco was arrested at Bay Fair station and booked into Santa Rita Jail for a warrant.
- At 10:41 a.m. a man identified by police as Derek Mishrah, 40, from Hawaiian Gardens was taken into custody at Fremont station and booked at Alameda County Jail for possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia.
- At 2:26 p.m. a 17-year-old male juvenile and a man identified by police as Raquan Williams, 19, from San Francisco were contacted at San Leandro station and taken into custody for burglary, possession of burglary tools and probation violation. Williams was booked into Alameda County Jail. The male juvenile was booked into Alameda County Juvenile Hall.
- At 6:22 p.m. a man identified by police as Levi Harrington, 31, from San Francisco was arrested for two outstanding warrants. Harrington was transported and booked at Santa Clara County Jail for his warrants. Harrington did not have proof of payment.
Saturday, July 15
- At 1:36 a.m. a man identified as Cesar Delatorre, 50, from San Lorenzo was placed under arrest at Bay Fair station for public intoxication. Delatorre was booked into the Santa Rita Jail without incident.
- At 7:54 p.m. a man identified by police as Ray Estrada, 28, from Vacaville was contacted for fare evading to exit. Estrada was arrested for an outstanding warrant. He was transported and booked at Santa Clara County Jail for his warrant only.
- At 8:39 p.m. a man identified by police as Jonathan Arias, 18, from Oakland was contacted at Bay Fair station for fare evading to exit the station. Arias was arrested for an outstanding warrant. He was transported and booked at Santa Rita Jail.
CHP Log
Submitted by California Highway Patrol Hayward Office
Thursday, July 20
- Officer Villars was on patrol when she noticed a member of the motoring public using both hands to text on his cellphone and his knee to drive. She addressed this unsafe behavior and made an enforcement stop. As she was speaking to the driver, she smelled the odor of an alcoholic beverage on the driver’s breath. Officer Villars evaluated the driver for DUI and ultimately made an arrest. As she was searching the DUI driver incident to arrest, he made a spontaneous statement that he had a handgun in his car. There was a “ghost” gun in the glovebox.
Fremont Police Log
Submitted by Fremont PD
Friday, July 14
- Officers responded to a parking lot on Boyce Rd. to the report of a shooting. The reporting party indicated he was shot in the leg by a subject. Officers arrived immediately and rendered aid to the victim, who was transported to a trauma center. Officers determined that the victim and the shooting subject may have had an altercation, and this is not a random act of shooting. This case remains under investigation.
Saturday, July 15
- Officers responded to an in-progress commercial burglary on Mowry Ave. The reporting party indicated live video surveillance showing a subject was inside the business. Officers responded within minutes and set up a perimeter. A search team entered the building and located the subject. An adult subject out of Fremont was arrested.
Tuesday, July 11
- Officers responded to a domestic violence incident on Country Dr. The victim requested medical assistance due to her husband injuring her. The victim was transported to a local hospital. The husband, an adult subject out of Fremont, later came to the Police Department lobby, where an officer arrested him.
- Officers responded to the area of Warm Springs Blvd. and Meadowfaire Common regarding a subject smoking out of a pipe and urinating on the sound wall. The reporting party was concerned because the man was walking towards an area where children were present. Officers located the subject, who was drunk. An adult subject out of Fremont was arrested.
Hayward Police Log
Submitted by Hayward PD
Tuesday, July 18
- Officers were in the right place at the right time when a Corvette C7 Stingray was spotted doing donuts in north Hayward, close to downtown. Officers pulled the driver over for reckless driving and the car was impounded for 30 days. The driver was also found to have a suspended license. During an inventory search of the car, officers found a loaded handgun (not registered to him) with an extended magazine, suspected narcotics, and narcotics sales contraband. The driver was ultimately arrested.
Milpitas Fire Log
Submitted by Milpitas FD
Saturday, July15
- At approximately 7:57 a.m. Milpitas Fire Department responded to the 1600 block of Yosemite Drive for a structure fire. A full alarm was dispatched to the address and arrived on scene at 8:01 a.m. Upon arrival crews found light smoke in the attic. After an extensive search for hidden fire, the ceiling was pulled down to isolate and extinguish the source. Cause is undetermined at this time and no injuries were reported.
San Leandro Police Log
Submitted by San Leandro PD
Wednesday, July 19
- At 6:30 a.m. officers responded to the Greenhouse Shopping Center after a witness saw subjects breaking into vehicles. When officers arrived at the shopping center, they located multiple suspects rummaging through vehicles and detained them without any incident. After an initial investigation, the subjects were arrested for being in possession of a stolen vehicle, stolen property and in possession of narcotics. The suspects are residents of Alameda and Oakland and active to the Alameda County Probation Department for various property crimes.
Union City Police Log
Submitted By Union City PD
Tuesday, July 18
- Around 11:08 a.m. Union City Police Officers responded to the area of 12th Street and G Street to investigate a shooting. When officers arrived, they contacted an adult male, who was suffering from a non-life-threatening gunshot wound. Par
amedics arrived and transported the victim to a local hospital for treatment.
While investigating this incident, officers learned that the suspect was possibly still in the area. Officers contained the area and later arrested the possible suspect. The arrested suspect was identified as Joseph Davis, 41-year-old male from Union City. A firearm and ammunition were recovered from the crime scene. Davis was later booked into Santa Rita County Jail for the following violations: Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Felon in Possession of Ammunition and Assault with a Deadly Weapon.
This incident appears to be isolated and there are no known active threats to the overall community.
This is an active investigation, and it is currently being investigated by the Union City Police Department’s Investigations Unit. If you have any information regarding this incident, please contact Detective Moreno at (510) 675-5354.
Drug pricing legislation
Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and other lawmakers recently introduced the Strengthening Medicare and Reducing Taxpayer Prices Act, a bill they claim will help America’s seniors by imposing strict price caps on prescription drugs.
The bill effectively doubles down on last year’s Inflation Reduction Act, which empowered the government to set prices for dozens of prescription drugs covered by Medicare. Price controls discourage new entrants into the marketplace and the development of new products. Life sciences is no exception.
Even before the IRA, it took a risk-tolerant investor to bankroll cutting-edge biotech research. After accounting for the high rate of failure—about 88% of experimental drugs that start clinical trials never earn FDA approval—it can cost upwards of $2.6 billion to bring one to market.
This is particularly true of small-molecule medicines, which usually come in pill form. The IRA subjects “small-molecule” drugs to price controls just nine years after FDA approval. Larger molecule “biologic” medications, often administered via infusion, are eligible for price setting after 13 years.
The legislation would double the number of medications subject to price controls. It would drastically reduce how long new drugs are exempt from price controls, subjecting both small-molecule and biologic medicines to price caps just five years after FDA approval.
Small and medium biotechs employ 71% of the nearly 1.9 million workers in the U.S. bioscience industry. The SMART Act could put hundreds of small biotechs out of business, and thousands of workers out of a job.
Karen Kerrigan is president and CEO of the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council
Karen Kerrigan
Vienna, Virginia
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Mission San Jose Historic District becoming “in name only”
The ambiance of the Mission San Jose village is slowly being eradicated by the so-called “new look.” What makes the area unique and a destination is the historic eclectic building architecture; along with the Mission San Jose Museum and Church, Olive Hyde Art Gallery, Gardens at Palmdale and the History Museum. Park your vehicle and visit all these attractions with a leisurely walk.
The new look being promoted as progress is attempting to demolish another structure in the heart of the village. The property is located at 43341 Mission Boulevard. The property sometime back was purchased by a developer for development purpose only. There certainly wasn’t any interest to perpetuate the existing uses of the structure when purchased. The building in question presently is not usable due to a fire on the building site roughly a year ago. Since then, the only attraction to the building has been graffiti, tagging, homeless and shopping carts. Such good attention is being given to the building and obviously no interest in repairing it for commercial use.
The present consensus of both the developer and city planners seems to be “down with the old and bring high density straight up,” with unimaginative structures with inadequate parking for the project, thus allowing street parking. I for one say NO, instead, repair-rehab the building!
If you feel you have had enough of this so-called progress, join me in raising your voice to the following:
Mayor: Lily Mei, [email protected]
Council Member: Raj Salwan, [email protected]
Council Member: Teresa Cox, [email protected]
Mission San Jose Chamber of Commerce: [email protected]
Bob Tavares
Fremont
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Rodeos
This is about rodeos. They want to get rid of them. Anything that’s been around for a long time is no good anymore. It’s been said that rodeos have nothing to do with farming and ranching. Where do the animals come from? People that don’t know what they’re talking about should mind their business.
My father used to farm with draft horses. By doing that he was abusing them, I guess. He took good care of them. I had a saddle horse. I took good care of him too. I love to ride. I have been around animals all my life.
Rodeos are here to stay. The kids can’t have any fun. They want to take everything away from them too. There’s a lot of ignorant people around. They don’t know anything.
Leonard T. Rose
Fremont
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
TikTok is Being Banned for All the Wrong Reasons
TikTok is a titan of social media — According to CBS News, over 150 million Americans use TikTok on a monthly basis. But its footing in the U.S. seems to be slipping. Congress interrogated TikTok’s CEO on the app’s connections with the Chinese Communist Party and its potential acts of espionage on American citizens (NYTimes). Nearly 60% of Americans find the app to be a threat to national security (pewresearch.org).
But in the midst of this uproar over data privacy, a more dangerous facet of TikTok has been disregarded: the damage it has done to the attention spans of users. TikTok forces us to confront a much larger, more uncomfortable truth about the effects of modern social media.
The platform’s videos span from 15 seconds to 10 minutes, but are for the most part around 30 seconds. In theory, this offers a bite-sized viewing experience that only takes up a small portion of the user’s time. However, as anyone who has binged snacks can attest, the small amount of dopamine from each bite — or view — encourages the consumer to keep eating or scrolling in an attempt to feel satisfied. Even though videos are less than half a minute long, the average TikTok browsing time per session is 52 minutes (searchlogistics.com), meaning most TikTok users browse over 100
videos per session. This is in part made possible because of the exceedingly effective hooks that TikTok uses to make the experience more convenient; a like is only a single double tap, the next video only a swipe away.
Spending nearly an hour a day on browsing TikToks is having a noticeable effect on its users. Although TikTok video maximum lengths have increased from seven seconds to 10 minutes in order to sell more ad revenue, most TikTok users are now finding that videos over one minute stress them out (wired.co.uk), with users admitting that they watch videos at twice the speed not because they are short on time, but because they are short on attention span and concentration.
The issue is so serious, even TikTok and its users are aware of the danger. Nearly half of girls who use TikTok consider themselves “addicted” to the platform, and Tiktok even has its own alert systems for users, telling them to “stop” and that they’ve “been scrolling for way too long now.” When TikTok feels obligated to warn its own users, despite driving profits from user engagement, the damages of addiction and attention span atrophy really ought to be emphasized more.
Why aren’t these mental health impacts brought up as much as security and privacy concerns? The answer is because TikTok’s security concerns make it unique among social media apps and mark a convenient target for politicians — for example, Montana justified its TikTok ban by accusing the app of Chinese espionage (npr.org). However, the deeper problem with TikTok — its addictive scrolling — isn’t unique. An endless scrolling of curated content can also be found on sites like Twitter, Spotify, Instagram, and Youtube Shorts, the last of which pulls in over 50 billion views daily(blinkfire) and targets older age demographics too.
Confronting and banning TikTok for its security concerns is easy. But to recognize and stop the dangers of scrolling addiction forces us to confront all other social media platforms as well, which have eagerly seized upon TikTok’s addictive scrolling formula, yet escaped TikTok’s scrutiny because they are not connected to foreign governments. The older generations should not be content with stamping out TikTok and leaving the social media site they endlessly scroll untouched — rather, they must do a better job of teaching the younger generations the dangers of all social media addiction, as well.
Ryan Shen
Mission San Jose High School, Fremont
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Union City Public Library Closure
Alameda County Public Library (ACPL) has decided to close the Union City Library on Mondays starting July 23, 2023, without input from the community and for the first time ever in the library’s history. When announcing this closure, ACPL said that libraries strengthen communities and transform lives every day. The closure is exactly opposite to this slogan. ACPL wasted about six months where it could have notified the public and the New Haven School District for a stronger case with the city Mayor.
This library is very close to James Logan High School, which has over 4,000 kids. They depend on this library as a place to go after school hours and do their homework. There are many opportunities for our kids to go off track and ruin their lives. This is one of the very few resources that will keep them away from those paths. Yet ACPL has closed the door for them on Mondays.
Union City has done nothing to support the local library in the last many years. It let the library close on Sunday afternoons because the city stopped its funding. This was understandable as the city was then in major fiscal trouble. Yet the city continued its neglect of the library even after the fiscal condition improved. Funding the local library has disappeared from the Union City budgets. The City Manager even forgot that a library about 200 feet away from City Hall even exists. The Mayor and City Council should be held responsible for this mismanagement of the city’s needs.
Newark has set an example for us in Union City to follow. It has built a modern and spacious library with city funds, managed by the ACPL. It is providing additional funds now to keep the library open on Sundays.
Union City Library needs our support. Our elected officials need to wake up and support funding of the local library. They also need to hold the city manager responsible for actions and in this case inaction to make funding part of the city budget.
Subru Bhat, Alameda County Public Library Advisory Commissioner
Union City
Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium welcomes its first rockhopper penguin chick in 8 years
By Erin Hooley, Associated Press
It’s bright and early at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium and the penguin population’s newest member is ready for a wellness check. A fuzzy brown southern rockhopper chick is gently plopped onto a scale in an exam room and Shedd’s penguin team members are happy with the results. So, it seems, is the chick, who waves its flippers in the air and stretches out its neck. “You’re doing the happy flaps!” says senior trainer Katy Roxbury, who offers the chick bits of herring. The first southern rockhopper penguin hatched at Shedd in eight years came out of its shell on June 16. The aquarium made modifications to the exhibit area and brought in a few new female penguins last year as part of the rockhopper breeding program. Shedd`s penguin colony also includes Magellanic penguins.
“We were very excited when we found out that this egg was fertile,” says penguin and otter supervisor Megan Vens-Policky. “We’ve been monitoring it closely. We’re seeing great growth and we’re seeing very attentive behavior from the parents, so we couldn’t be happier with how things are going.” The chick’s parents, Edward and Annie, became famous in 2020 when they joined the aquarium’s “field trips,” visiting locations such as the nearby Field Museum and Soldier Field while the aquarium was closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the daily wellness exam, the chick is weighed to see how much food it’s getting from mom and dad. Aquarium team members also offer additional food items, which helps the chick become comfortable with being handled. The chick will remain nameless for three months while the penguin team focuses on its health and development. The sex of the chick will be determined by testing DNA from inside its egg shell. Shedd is part of the Species Survival Plan, a global conservation program designed to optimize the genetics and health of the rockhopper population within accredited zoos and aquariums. “The southern rockhopper population is a population of concern out in the wild so it’s one we definitely
want to learn more about,” says Vens-Policky.
New Head Coach to Lead Cal State East Bay Men’s Soccer Program
Submitted by CSUEB Athletics Communications
Cal State East Bay announces the hiring of Michael Haswell as head coach for men’s soccer.
With a rich history of coaching championship teams, Haswell arrives to the Hayward campus having most recently served as assistant men’s soccer coach at California State University, Los Angeles for the previous six seasons.
In the six seasons that were played while serving on the Golden Eagles’ staff, the program saw tremendous success. Cal State LA won the NCAA Division II Men’s Soccer Championship in 2021 and reached the national championship match in 2019. Cal State LA amassed 91 wins in the six seasons with Haswell on staff, including four CCAA Tournament Championships and five NCAA Tournament appearances.
“I am thrilled to welcome Coach Haswell to Cal State East Bay,” said CSUEB Associate Vice President/Director of Athletics Allison Kern. “Mike brings an elite mentality to our program and he has had success at every stop in his career. His ability to recruit and develop exceptional soccer players will be a great asset, but it will be secondary compared to his commitment to preparing young men for life after East Bay.” Kern added, “As we continue to grow into this next phase of Pioneer Athletics, I’m confident that Mike will elevate our program on and off the pitch.”
Also at Cal State LA, Haswell was a Kinesiology instructor. Outside his collegiate coaching career, Haswell served in a coaching role at Mendez High School in Los Angeles from 2010-2019 where he earned a CIF Division II Coach of the Year honor in 2017 for leading his team to a CIF Los Angeles City Section Championship that season.
His soccer playing career includes three city championships at Fayetteville-Manlius High School near Syracuse, New York and a youth national championship with Syracuse Blitz. At the semi-professional soccer level, Haswell competed as a member of the Los Angeles Crew.
Haswell earned a degree in Aerospace Engineering from Penn State, where he also played NCAA Division I lacrosse. He earned a Master’s degree at Long Beach State in Kinesiology.
Haswell’s Pioneer coaching debut is set for August 31 with a non-conference match at Dominican University. The first Pioneer home match under Haswell’s direction is set for September 15 against St. Mary’s (Texas). On October 6, Haswell gets to coach against his former team, Cal State LA, from Pioneer Stadium.
Men to compete in artistic swimming at Olympics for first time
By Stephen Wade, Associated Press
Snicker if you wish. Guffaw for good measure. Bill May and other male synchronized swimmers — now called artistic swimmers — have heard the putdowns before. But they`re getting the last laugh. Men have competed in synchro at the lower levels for decades. Now they`re being included in the Olympics, meaning next year`s Summer Games in Paris. “I think it`s a huge opportunity for the sport to grow and attract more men.,” May told the Associated Press at the World Aquatics Championships. “By keeping men out you`re limiting the sport. By including men you`re going to see an upshift in the popularity and the numbers.”
May looks like a lean bodybuilder. He was among the first men to compete when synchro was included in the worlds for the first time in 2015. And he worked for 17 years at Cirque du Soleil doing water-themed shows. He has come out of competitive retirement for a chance to compete at the Olympics. “There has always been that misconception that it’s a female-only sport, or that it’s for wimps, or that it’s not a difficult sport,” the 44-year-old May said. “Anyone that has anything negative to say about the sport — boy, female, anyone. Just try it and you’ll know it’s the most difficult sport in the world.”
The acrobatic team event, in particular, features lifts, throws and flips, and diving routines launched off the shoulders of teammates treading water below. It`s gymnastics on water and concussions are a risk. Interested men often confront the stereotypes. Beginning in elementary school, 18-year-old American Kenny Gaudet dreamed of being a synchronized swimmer. He made it, but it wasn`t easy. “It makes me emotional just to think about the problems we all went through and the struggles we all had just to get a chance to swim and do what we love,” said Gaudet who competed at this year`s worlds. “So much bullying. So much slander. So much hate,” he added. “Just because of my gender, just because I’m a male in artistic swimming. When I first started, I wanted to quit so many times. Growing up my peers would ask why I’m doing a female sport, why am I being like a girl and degrade me for doing what I love to do.”
One aspect of Adam Andrasko`s job as the head of USA Artistic Swimming is recruiting men. He said there are about 100 participating in the United States, up from 25 just four years ago. “There hasn’t been a good foundation of growth,” Andrasko said. “You haven’t had the farm system.”A few countries at the world championships have male swimmers including the United States, Japan, Germany and China. Spain and Italy also have top competitors. “There aren’t a lot of countries with strong males,” in the international competition, Andrasko said, noting men often lack the flexibility to compete. “So, you might not see a lot of males swimming in the Olympics. I’m concerned it goes to the Olympic Games and we don’t see a male participating. I definitely have that fear.” “To this point,” he added, “women are still far better at this sport than a man.”
Another fear, apparently unfounded, is that women might resent the men competing in the sport. Men will compete in only team events at the Olympics. Teams have a maximum of eight members — with a limit of two men — which means men might crowd out some women. There is no requirement for men to be included. Asked about any acrimony, two-time American Olympian Anita Alvarez replied: “No, not at all.” Alvarez has blacked out twice in the last two years while competing and had to be resuscitated. She`s been cleared to compete with no diagnosis except physical or mental exhaustion. Holding her breath for too long underwater is also suspected.
Men can add some physicality to routines, and their presence could lead to a wider audience. Alvarez also credits May with choreography skills that he picked up with Cirque du Soleil. “Having the inclusion of both males and females will make it more open for young boys and young girls to dream of being in the Olympics, parents wanting to start their kids,” Alvarez said. She ran off her workout routine, sure to scare away men and women __ equally. “We`re training eight-plus hours a day, treading water all day,” she said. “You have to be able to count time and work with music. You have to be able to watch your patterns and stay in line. We don`t wear goggles when we compete. You`re holding your breath. You don`t touch the bottom. There are so many elements that go into it that people don`t see.” And we`re about to see more men trying it.
Mission Track and Field Junior Olympic Qualifiers
Submitted by Lee Webb
Mission Valley Track and Field Club based in Fremont has a larg
e group of talented athletes. This year 41 members of the Mission Valley Track and Field team have qualified for the Junior Olympic National qualifiers in Eugene, Oregon at the famous Hayward Field taking place from July 24 to the 30.
Many of today’s Olympic stars began their track and field careers competing in the USATF National Junior Olympic Championships. Thus, making this meet one of the most visible youth athletics development programs in the world.
We are proud to have athletes representing Fremont and the Bay Area at large at such an important meet.
Newark Memorial Coach helps Wrestling team win Championships
Submitted by Newark Memorial Athletics
Linfield University’s wrestling team assistant coach, Tim Hess a Newark Memorial coach and physical education teacher, served as team chaplain for the U.S. men’s U20 Freestyle team. The Oregon institution wrestling team won the 2023 Pan-American Championships held in Santiago, Chile, from June 6-8. The Americans went 34-1 at the tournament, winning nine of the 10 weight classes.
Newark Bluefins repeat East Bay Swim League championship
By Eric Donato
East Bay Swim League (EBSL) 2023 championship event was held at Chabot College in Hayward. The event was held on July 21 for the thirteen to eighteen age group; and July 22 for the thirteen-under group. The 2022 defending champions, Newark Bluefins, edged the other teams out of out the water again this year with a combined score of 6,628. They also took first place in the men and women categories with 3,246.5 and 3,381.5, respectively.
The excitement-filled two days were jampacked with the two age groups represented in eleven teams scurrying through many heats, several eliminations, and the finals in seven main swim events further broken down by the different official swim distances. All the teams in the ESBL were represented at the championship event, which included: Newark Bluefins, Mission Valley Barracudas, Chabot Marlins, Highlands Sharks, San Leandro Drowning Darryls, Glenmoor Stingrays, Castro Valley Crocodiles, Bay Area Dolphins, Southgate Penguins, Treeview Dolphins, and Warm Springs Gators.
ESBL Meet Director, Patrick Ryken, noted the expansion of the championship event into two days, given the growth of the league and the participation post-Covid. Patrick said, “We have 11 teams in the league, and we saw 1,100 swimmers participate.” He added, “We shifted to a two-day meet to reduce the volume of athletes and parents together.” The historical growth and participation in the EBSL have been phenomenal. ESBL started in 1976 with six teams and now has eleven, with an average team membership of 120 to 160 swimmers. Patrick further noted that, geographically, the league covers the “corridor from Warm Springs to San Leandro.”
The steady growth of the league is also attributed to the swimmers who grew up in it. Patrick was proud to point out “They’ve been meeting at Chabot College for championships since they were five, six years old.” Although the annual championship is the league’s highlight, the season event calendar is also busy with dual meets where three teams compete simultaneously. Patrick clarified, “because we have an odd number of teams, we’ve had to adjust how we do our schedule so that we can get every team participating on a given Saturday.”
One appeal for all the swimmers in the league is the chance to contribute, where each has a stake in winning the championship for their respective team. Patrick said, “There’s a scoring system based on an individual swim where we score up to 30 placings, giving many kids in a given age group an opportunity to score points for their team.”
Apart from winning the team championship, Patrick pointed out that, “primary goal is to give all these swimmers a chance to perform at their best.” Patrick added that it has also been great for the swimmers because, for most, it’s an exciting event with a “big meet at the big college pool.” Not to mention the cheering crowd adding to the fantastic event atmosphere.
For more information about East Bay Swim League, please check out https://ebsl.org/.
Electrify the Summer at StarStruck’s The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
By Hugo Vera
Photos courtesy of Rosaura Studios
Greek mythology meets top-notch singing and dancing in StarStruck Stage’s production of The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical. Based on Rick Riordan’s 2005 novel Percy Jackson and the Lighting Thief, this whimsical and action-packed story follows the plight of a well-meaning but socially awkward schoolboy named Percy Jackson (played by Gabriel Lew). When Percy Jackson learns that he is a demigod (a person of half-human and half-Greek god parentage), he and others like him attend Camp Half-Blood; a safe haven and school in which they learn to balance their human abilities with those of their divine parents.
When the all-powerful lightning bolt from the god of lightning Zues is stolen, Percy must turn to his friends Grover (Brian Loh) and Annabeth (Valerie Golobic) as the three embark on an epic cross-country quest to retrieve the stolen bolt and prevent further infighting among the gods in order to save humanity.
The core trio of Lew, Loh and Golobic display amazing chemistry as their characters trade quips and witty banter, as well as emotional moments that audiences will be able to relate to. Many songs and much of the choreography juxtapose high-stakes moments of conflict with slapstick humor theatergoers of all ages can enjoy. Tracks such as “My Grand Plan” give a tender glimpse into Annabeth’s struggles, which many young girls may identify with, while songs such as “D.O.A” use dark humor to memorialize dearly-departed musicians such as Elvis Presley and Janis Joplin.
Other standout performances include those of the feisty Clarisse (Ella Lym), sassy Hades (Jacob Gonzales), paternalistic Chiron (Neil Basu), and wisecracking Mr. D (Manny Suarez). Both Lym and Gonzales produce a refreshingly sympathetic aura around their otherwise antagonistic characters while Basu and Suarez’s bickering on how to best lead their demigod pupils harkens back to the comedy duo Abbott & Costello.
One of the hallmarks of this production is without question its set design. The use of Greek columns, massive painted backdrops and practical effects aid in the audience’s suspense of disbelief as our characters are transported to modern reimaginings of Mount Olympus, the Underworld, and Camp Half-Blood. Clever costume and prop work also excel in bringing mythological icons such as Medusa and the Minotaur to life on stage. Credit is also due to the impressive efforts of the stagehands who simulate bus and motorcycle travel in a way that’s both subtle and in line with the musical-comedy aspects of the show.
Those who have read the original Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief novel as well as fans of the 2010 film adaptation starring Logan Lerman will surely enjoy StarStruck’s musical adaptation of The Lightning Thief. The compelling performances, accompanied by Nancy Godfrey’s musical direction and Fracesca Cipponeri’
s dance choreography, offer an entertaining experience for the whole family in this exploration of self-worth, introspection and courage.
StarStruck Stage’s The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical
Friday, Jul 21 – Sunday, Jul 30
Thurs, Fri, Sat: 7:30 p.m.
Sun: 2 p.m.
Saturday, Jul 29: 2 p.m.
Smith Center at Ohlone College
43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont
(510) 659-1319
https://starstrucktheatre.org/
Tickets: Adults $30, Seniors (65+) $28, Children/Students (through high school) $25
Continuing Events:
Tuesdays
Poker Tournaments
6:00 pm
Weekly tournaments for beginner or a seasoned player
The Clubhouse Bistro & Bar
4020 Technology Pl., Fremont
(510) 651-2500
bit.ly/3GllRwI
First Tuesdays
Open Mic on the Labyrinth
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Share your music, poetry, comedy, and spoken word in one of Fremont’s most beautiful settings!
St. Anne’s Episcopal Church
2791 Driscoll Rd., Fremont
(510) 490-0553
stanneschurch.org
First and Third Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Trivia Night
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Gather your team, grab some beers, and compete to win prizes
Drake’s Brewing Company
1933 Davis St. #177, San Leandro
(510) 568-2739
bit.ly/3U31xWD
Wednesdays
Trivia Night R$
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Play & win prizes
The Clubhouse Bistro & Bar
4020 Technology Pl., Fremont
(510) 651-2500
fremontclubhouse.com
Wednesdays
Tropics Bingo
7:00 pm
Flash games
Tropics Mobile Home Park
33000 Almaden Blvd., Union City
(510) 471-8550
Wednesdays
Zumba Gold $
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Workout while dancing
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
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 & 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
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
Fourth Fridays
Eden Night Live
3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Futsal, music & dancing, food vendors, games, resource fair
Hayward Adult School
22110 Princeton St., Hayward
(510) 783-4001
acdsal.org/enl
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 & Sundays
Recreational Swim $
12:30 pm – 03:00 pm
Activity pool, waterslides, lazy river, and more
Silliman Activity and Family Aquatic Center
6800 Mowry Ave., Newark
(510) 578-4620
bit.ly/3nxo0is
Mondays
English Conversations at Newark Library R
12:00 pm – 01:30 pm
Free learning material to develop your English conversation skills
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
rb.gy/qaxkf
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
Wednesdays, December 7 – November 22
Qi Gong Meditation & Exercise Classes
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Relieve stress and anxiety by joining Falun Dafa classes.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
Last Thursdays, February 23 – August 31
The Peaceful Poets
5:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Writers & appreciators meet.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
rb.gy/xkchp
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
Wednesdays, April 5 – September 6
Board Game Night
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Play board games with family, friends, or make new friends
Centerville library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
bit.ly/3VTzrhF
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 paintings by Rita Sklar
Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center
4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward
(510) 670-7270
Wednesdays, April 26 – September 6
Manitas en Acción
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Reading out loud, learning about the culture, and other hands-on crafts in Spanish.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Thursdays, May 4 – August 24
French Conversation Circle R
2:00 pm – 03:45 pm
Practice your French
Hayward Public Library
888 C St., Hayward
(510) 293-8685
bit.ly/HPLFrench23
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
Third Saturdays, May 20 – December 16
Yoga for beginners & beyond
10:30 am – 11:45 am
Join for free yoga class
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
bit.ly/44NFZSZ
Friday & Saturday, May 26 – August 26
Hayward Live
4:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Music, art and much more
B Street, Hayward
hayward-ca.gov/hayward-live
All activities will take place on the sidewalks, bump-out patios, and parks.
Fourth Saturdays, May 27 – November 25
Reading Buddies for Grades K – 5th
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Buddy up with a furry friend & read one on one from a favorite book.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
bit.ly/3MEpC3X
Saturdays, May 27 – December 30
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
Saturdays, June 3 – 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
rb.gy/wc5b5
Saturdays, June 3 – September 30
Summer Music Series R$
7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Get ready to groove, dance, and sing along to your favorite tunes all summer long!
The Clubhouse Bistro & Bar
4020 Technology Pl., Fremont
(510) 651-2500
rb.gy/iw8sc
Monday -Friday, June 5 – August 18
Code Ninjas Union City R$
9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Interactive learning experience for children ages 5-14.
585-9945
Code Ninjas
1772 Decoto Rd., Union City
(510) 585-9945
rb.gy/e6d1o
Monday – Friday, June 5 – August 18
Code Ninjas Fremont R$
9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Interactive learning experience for children ages 5 -14.
Code Ninjas Fremont/Warmsprings
46525 Mission Blvd., Fremont
(510) 400-1466
rb.gy/w63ym
Thursd
ay – Saturday, 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 for children of all abilities ages 5-14.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
rb.gy/8ttqt
Caregivers must be present
Saturday, 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
Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursday, 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
Birchfield Park
24438 Santa Clara St, Hayward
(510) 881-6700
bit.ly/3NZJ4cr
Tuesdays, June 13 – July 25
Crafternoon
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Drop in during the program time frame and complete a craft at your own pace.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
rb.gy/e49ev
Wednesdays, June 14– September 27
Little Listeners Storytime
11:00 am – 11:45 am
Storytime for preschoolers. Parent presence required.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
rb.gy/9lrtx
Wednesdays, June 14 – December 27
Little Bookworms Storytime
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Come read, sing, and be silly with us.
Cherryland Community Center
278 Hampton Road, Hayward
(510) 626-8522
rb.gy/5nlam
Thursdays, June 15 – July 27
Game Day
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Children and their families are invited for an afternoon of video games.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
rb.gy/xn27n
Monday – Friday, July 10 – August 30
Arts & Letters Member show
9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Art Reception: Saturday, August 19: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Hayward City Hall (John O’Lague Galleria)
777 B St., Hayward
(510) 583-4000
haywardartscouncil.org
Tuesdays, July 11 – August 15
TAG/ Teen Tuesdays R
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Play board games, join the teen advisory group, make art and poetry
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
rb.gy/pzayf
Tuesdays, July 11 – September 5
LEGO® Time
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Use your imagination and engineering skills to create your own LEGO designs.
Centerville library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
rb.gy/cpnae
Tuesdays, July 18 – August 29
Little Learners Storytime
10:30 am – 11:00 am
Learn through stories, songs, and movement activities.
Centerville library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
rb.gy/t448y
Tuesdays, July 18 – November 28
Baby Bouncers Lapsit
11:30 am – 12:00 pm
A baby and caregivers program including nursery rhymes, lap bounce, body rhymes, songs & picture books.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
rb.gy/lwm72
Tuesdays, July 18 – September 5
LEGO® Time
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Use your imagination and engineering skills to create your own LEGO® designs.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
rb.gy/107pa
Wednesdays, July 19 – November 29
ESL Conversation Club at Milpitas Library
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Improve your English listening and speaking skills and learn about other cultures.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
rb.gy/tszda
Saturdays, July 22 – August 26
Storywalk Along the Marsh
3:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Join us for an outdoor story walk as we explore the wonders of the marsh.
Coyote Hills Visitors Center
8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont
(510) 544-3220
rb.gy/71ajw
Parking fees applies.
Saturdays, July 22 – July 29
Summer Storytime Saturdays
10:30 am – 11:00 am
Join for a fun-filled morning where we’ll share books & songs to build early literacy skills!
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
rb.gy/lspms
Upcoming Events:
Tuesday, July 25
Chinese Poetry & Songs
11:15 am – 11:45 am
Children ages 0 – 12.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
rb.gy/2vttl
Tuesday, July 25
Giant Bubble Party
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Join the giant bubble party and play with bubbles, chalk, and hula hoops.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
rb.gy/e22yj
Tuesday, July 25
Bubblesmith
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Enjoy the wonderful world of bubbles
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
rb.gy/9au12
Tuesday, July 25
Sensory Family Movie
4:00 pm – 5:45 pm
Screening of “Luca” (2021)
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
rb.gy/1pu80
Tuesday, July 25
Wildmind Science
1:00 pm – 1:45 pm
Learn the significance of living things.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
rb.gy/qu2d1
Tickets will be distributed outside the main entrance from 12:45pm.
Wednesday, July 26
Magician Brain Scott
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Magic and comedy, providing an entertaining and interactive show.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
rb.gy/uyy0u
Wednesday, July 26
Bingo Night
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Free to attend. Food for purchase
Chick-fil-A Mowry Avenue
5245 Mowry Ave., Fremont
(510) 608-5771
rb.gy/xkchp
Thursday, July 27
“Hey Jude” Summer Concert
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Energetic & accurate versions of music from the 60’s & 70’s emphasizing The Beatles catalog.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
rb.gy/d6er0
Friday, July 28
Sunset Science: Starlight astronomy $R
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Learn all about the energy and light while observing some of the most unique stars.
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
rb.gy/xkchp
Friday, July 28
Family Caregiver Film Series R
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Enjoy the screening of “Still Alice”
Fremont City Hall
3300 Capitol Ave., Fremont
(510) 574-2035
Friday, July 28
Job Fair and Career Expo for Refugees & Immigrants
10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Meet companies that are eager to hire
Fremont Family Resource Center
39155 Liberty St., Fremont
(510) 574-2000
acgov.org/hrs.
Friday, July 28
Crafternoon for Ages 6 – 12 R
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Craft program for kids ages 6-12
Hayward Public Library
888 C St., Hayward
(510) 881-7943, (510) 293-8685
rb.gy/xkchp
Registration will close on July 28, 2023 @ 10 am.
Friday, July 28
Bedtime Theater – Beauty & The Beast Sing-a-Long $R
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Enjoy this classic with on-screen lyrics for all the songs.
Douglas Morrisson Theatre
22311 N 3rd St., Hayward
(510) 881-6700
rb.gy/xkchp
Saturday, July 29
Find your Voice Karaoke Party! R
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Join for an hour full of fun and music.
Hayward Public Library
888 C St., Hayward
(510) 583-2113
rb.gy/xkchp
Saturday, July 29
Raspberry Pi Kids R
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Learn how Raspberry Pi is used in the field of engineering and projects done using it.
Centerville library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
rb.gy/zxpwu
For 4th grade and up.
Saturday, July 29
Movie Night $R
7:30 pm
Screening of “The Calgary Stampede (1925), preceded by shorts: It’s a Gift (1923) and Time Flies(1926)
Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum
37417 Niles Blvd., Fremont
(510) 494-1411
rb.gy/dfzu2
Saturday, July 29
Women in Tech Conference
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Hear successful women in tech (computer science, engineering, biotechnology) and get inspired.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
rb.gy/go2ps
Saturday, July 29
Farmyard Games
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Explore the delightful past times games, such as sack races and more.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757
rb.gy/woeij
Admission fee applies
Saturday, July 29
Play with Dough
11:30 pm – 12:30 pm
Experience the ancient art of bread making.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
rb.gy/89dic
Admission fee applies
Saturday, July 29
Coyote Hills Puppet Show
11:30 am – 12:00 pm
Follow the cast of animal characters on an imaginary adventure around the park.
Coyote Hills Visitors Center
8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont
(510) 544-3220
rb.gy/xkchp
Parking fee applies
Saturday, July 29
AM Paint N’ Chill $R
8:30 am – 10:00 am
A morning of step-by-step painting along with the wonderful sight and sound of Sunol.
Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3245
rb.gy/xkchp
Parking fee applies.
Saturday, July 29
Community Closet
9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Free clothes & donation drop off.
Studio 11
34626 11th St., Union City
(510) 675-5825
mindfulmami.com
Contact Sofia Dangerfield for clothing donations
Saturday, July 29
The Road to Wellness Family health Fair!
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Interactive health and fitness challenges, giveaways, utility truck of all kind to explore, music & dance performances & much more.
Washington Hospital
2000 Mowry Ave., Fremont
(510) 797-1111
rb.gy/4lfpw
Saturday, July 29
Drone First responders (DFR) Program Meeting
9:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Join Fremont Police and fire department in a community meeting to discuss their Drone First Responders (DFR) Program
Fremont City Hall
3300 Capitol Ave., Fremont
(510) 248-4000
rb.gy/xkchp
Saturday, July 29
Dumbarton Quarry Campfire – Animal Celebrities
8:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Explore some of the Bay area’s most charismatic animals as we delve into their connections and charm! Ages 5+yrs.
Dumbarton Quarry Campground
9400 Quarry Rd., Fremont
(510) 544-3215
rb.gy/xkchp
Saturday, July 29
Pruning Your Fruit trees R
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Learn about pruning tools and more with live demonstration
Local Ecology and Agriculture Fremont (LEAF) Center
36501 Niles Blvd., Fremont
rb.gy/73ovu
Saturday, July 29
Plant & Cutting Swap
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Bring house plant cuttings, extra plants or seed starts, succulents, bulbs or tubers to share and swap with other gardeners in our community.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
rb.gy/wshoq
Saturday – Sunday, July 29 – July 30
Fremont Coin Club’s Annual Coin Show
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Fremont Elks Lodge
38991 Farwell Dr., Fremont
(510) 797-2121
rb.gy/a97th
Saturday, July 29
Hike & Sip $R
5:30 pm Hike: Easy interpretive hike with moderate terrain (75 minutes)
7:00 pm Hike: Moderate interpretive hike with some hills (90-120 minutes)
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7329, (510) 336-7300
rb.gy/xkchp
Sunday, July 30
Native Skies Star Stories $
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Native storyteller will speak to an Indigenous East Bay understanding of the sky and land as you gaze at the stars.
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
rb.gy/xkchp
Free with general admission.
Sunday, July 30
Rancho To Ranch Homes: Mapping the Evolution of the Castro Valley
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Book discussion with Local Author: Rick Kelly
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
rb.gy/okf6s
Sunday, July 30
Timber
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Walk the farm to see various timber trees and hear logging’s storied past at Ardenwood and across California
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
rb.gy/mfuj1
Admission fee applies.
Sunday, July 30
Music meetup at Milpitas Library
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Discussion on Taylor Swift’s “Folklore”
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
rb.gy/xkchp
Sunday, July 30
Ethnobotany Garden Exploration
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Stroll around and discover native plants and how they are used by Ohlone People.
Coyote Hills Visitors Center
8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont
(510) 544-3220
rb.gy/xkchp
Parking fee applies
Sunday, July 30
Summer Resource Fair
11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Learn, discover, network & share community resources that fit your needs.
Centerville community center
3355 Country Dr, Fremont
(510) 745-9151
Monday, July 31
Juggling Club
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Join the summer juggling club! All skill levels ages 10 – 14 welcome
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
rb.gy/kjr66
Monday, July 31
Start Smart Teen Driving R
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Driver safety education class targeting new and future licensed drivers
Ages 15 – 19
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
rb.gy/f2rou
Parent/guardian is required
Tuesday, August 1
Drummm: A Magical Journey
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
An interactive rhythm event for whole family
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
rb.gy/704tp
Tuesday, August 1
Science for kids: Aerodynamics and Iteration!
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Design a paper airplane, make some small adjustments to it and test them to see how their fling abilities have changed. Ages 6 and up.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
510) 745-1421), (510) 745-1400
rb.gy/x7k80
Summer Concerts
Milpitas Summer Concert Series
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Free admission
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 28
5 p.m. OMT Band
6 p.m. Tortilla Soup
Shirley Sisk Grove, NewPark Mall
2086 NewPark Mall Rd., Newark
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., Remont
pacificcommons.com
Central Park Summer Concert Series
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
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
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
October 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
Sundays, August 6 – September 24
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
(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 28
Ant Man & the Wasp
Higuera Adobe Park
Wessex Pl., Milpitas
Family Movie Nights
Bring lawn chairs, blankets, snacks
July 28
7 p.m.
Minions: Rise of Gru
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
August 18
Turning Red
Castro Valley Community Park
September 8
Hotel Transylvania 4
Meek Park
Bark After Dark
8 p.m.
Bring low-back chairs and/or blankets. Pets must remain on leashes
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
August 18
8:30 p.m.
Grease (1978)
Barbara Lee Senior Center
