08-23-22 Articles

 

 

Dig Deep Farms arrives in Ardenwood

By Stephanie Gertsch

 

On Wednesday, August 17, the community welcomed Dig Deep Farms to Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont.

 

Dig Deep Farms (DDF) is part of the nonprofit organization, Alameda County Deputy Sheriffs Activities League (DSAL), which reduces crime by promoting positive work and activities. Operating six farms in the East Bay Area, DDF targets food insecurity and provides jobs and training to formerly incarcerated community members. (Pay is $23 per hour.) In 2021, DDF signed a five-year lease with Ardenwood Historic farm for 84 acres of organic heritage farming. This expansion is funded by 4.8 million allocated by Alameda County Board of Supervisors.

 

Hilary Bass, DDF Executive Director, said, “We have connected over the idea that public safety can be done differently, that perhaps if we invest in the things that people need to be healthy, well, happy, joyful and connected, maybe people will make really good decisions and be less likely get caught up in a mistake.”

 

She spoke about her 18 years of collaboration with the Alameda County Sheriff’s office, and how she and her colleagues were inspired by the book Green Collar Economy by Van Jones “If we in America were to invest in green jobs that help the earth, and we specifically train people to get those jobs who have had barriers to employment, we’d be winning. We thought that was a good idea, and we started Dig Deep Farms in 2010.”

 

In addition to Bass, attendees at the event included Dee Rosario, Board or Directors, East Bay Regional Park District; Alameda County Sheriff Gregory Ahern; County Supervisors Nate Miley and Dave Brown; and California State Conservationist Carlos Suarez. Supervisor Wilma Chan was also remembered for her work furthering Alameda County’s food distribution program, All In Eats.

 

DDF is providing produce to Alameda County’s new Food as Medicine: Recipe4Health program, where patients can have nutritious food covered by Medical starting September 1. Nutrition coaching will also be covered, and even after patients finish their prescription, they will be able to purchase produce with SNAP / CalFresh through All In Eats.

 

Dr. Steven Chen, Chief Medical Officer, All In Alameda County, said, “It’s one thing to offer a prescription to some type of food that you’re not sure is actually healthy. It’s another to actually write that prescription and know there’s no pesticides, it’s high-nutrient, it’s grown in this manner called regenerative agriculture. And it’s improving the land.”

 

There are buzzwords that can be thrown around to describe this project: Community Capitals Policing, Regenerative Farming, Circular Food Economy. But the crux is that this project serves everybody: through reducing recidivism, through feeding the hungry nutritious food, through providing living wage jobs, and through preserving the land we live on. The community is looking forward to what Dig Deep Farms’ newest expansion will bring.

 

 

DSAL and DDF

www.acdsal.org/food-equity-1

 

All In Eats

https://allineats.com/

 

Ardenwood Historical Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

https://www.ebparks.org/parks/ardenwood

 

 

 

Niles Antique Faire & Flea Market

Submitted by Keith Elrod

 

The much-awaited event returns to town with treasures and trinkets! “Niles Antique Faire & Flea Market” is back, and Niles Main Street Association is excited to welcome you to downtown Niles.

 

The annual Niles Antique Faire & Flea Market is celebrating its 58th year on August 28. This fun-filled family event is expected to draw thousands of visitors and 100+ merchants from all over the Bay Area. The extravaganza kicks off at 6 a.m. and runs all the way until 4 pm., preceded by the famous pancake breakfast at 5 a.m.

 

At the event, visitors will find streets filled with vendors selling anything and everything from hand-made art and crafts, furniture, home and garden decor items to one-of-a-kind vintage clothing, accessories, and toys and collectibles from yore. Smoke and tasty aromas fill up the streets as food vendors sell fresh, off-the-grill hot dogs, barbeque, and other mouth-watering fair food. There will be face painters and balloon artists entertaining kids with their craft, artists drawing caricatures, musicians playing, and other hard-to-ignore attractions.

 

Admission and parking are free, though visitors are warned of heavy traffic due to increased pedestrian traffic, road closures and limited parking. Please consider using public transportation, carpool, or ride-hailing services as alternatives to driving. If you do drive, the Boy Scouts will have two Troops doing parking at California Nursery. They are charging $10 as a fundraiser. No pets are allowed at the event.

 

 

58th Annual Niles Antique Faire & Flea Market

Sunday, Aug 28

6 a.m. – 4 p.m.

5 a.m. Pancake Breakfast

Niles District, Fremont

(510) 857-6512

www.niles.org

California Nursery Parking: $10 fundraiser

 

 

 

Rail Fair returns to Ardenwood Historic Farm

Submitted by Jacque Burgess

 

Come out to Ardenwood Historic Farm on Labor Day weekend for our 22nd annual “Rail Fair!” Everyone will enjoy a day of fun at this celebration of trains. All activities and train rides are FREE with the price of admission.

 

There will be train rides all three days pulled by “Katie” our diesel locomotive. Our railroad museum will have some of our collection of historic railroad equipment on display, and we are excited to show everyone our museum’s first steam locomotive, which was built in 1910.

 

The farmyard will be full of model trains of all sizes! On Saturday and Sunday, Bay Area Garden Railway Society (BAGRS) will bring a variety of scale steam locomotives to operate. These small but mighty engines work exactly like a full-size steam engine.

 

On all three days, Diablo Pacific Shortline’s large modular railroad has both freight and passenger trains, as well as a Thomas the Tank Engine train—this railroad is built low so the littlest railroad fans can follow the trains around this huge layout. The California Central Coast On30 Railroad will also be back with their popular HO scale layout. New this year: Golden State Toy Train Operators will be bringing their large Lionel toy trains layout.

 

Besides train layouts, there will be other activities for the children such as stilts and tabletop games. Toddlers can play with multiple wooden trains in a set aside area and read stories from our Train Book Library.

 

There will be great music too! We welcome back two music groups who have been performing at Rail Fair for over a decade. The California State Old-Time Fiddlers will play traditional American string band music, including many rare old fiddle tunes and Appalachian-style music on Saturday. The Apple Butter Brothers will play American folk music with an emphasis on train songs on Sunday. This year we are excited to welcome a new music group called “Against the Grain” who will be performing Monday.

 

Of course, Patterson House will be open for tours (all three days). Sign up for house tours on the Patterson House porch.

 

Don’t forget your hats and sunscreen! Activities are spread out throughout the farm. Food will be available for purchase at the Farmyard Café (or you can bring a picnic). The Farmyard Café also has ice cream, treats and cold drinks.

 

Tickets will be sold in advance online, and also at the gate The line can get long, so we suggest purchasing tickets in advance. Updates with photos will be posted on our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/spcrrMuseum.

 

NOTE: Activities vary daily. All activities and times will be included in the event handout which you will receive when you enter the park.

 

 

Ardenwood Rail Fair

Saturday, Sept 3 – Monday, Sept 5

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

(Children’s activities close at 3:30)

Musical performances: 11 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

info@spcrr.org

www.spcrr.org

Admission: $12/Adults (18+); $10/Seniors (62+); $9/Children (4–17); 3 and under free

Parking is free

 

 

 

Afghan refugee help fund closing

Submitted by City of Fremont

 

After one year of operation, the City of Fremont’s Afghan Refugee Help Fund (ARHelp Fund) has raised more than $474,000 to provide financial help to newly arriving Afghan refugees.

 

To ensure the funds were distributed equitably, the city’s Human Services Department assembled a staff committee to review and approve requests for support. To date, the committee has approved 37 funding proposals, spanning 23 agencies, which have collectively supported hundreds of newcomers.

 

In mid-August the committee approved its last proposal, committing 98% of the funds. The residual funds will be managed by the Human Service Department’s urgent needs fund, with the restriction that those dollars will only be used in support of Afghan Newcomers. The ARhelp Fund will continue to accept donations via the restricted urgent needs fund through the fall. A final report will be issued by the city soon AR help.

 

More information, including details on how to make a donation, is posted on the ARHelp Fund website. Visit the City of Fremont website at www.fremont.gov, then enter “Afghan Refugee Help” in the search field and follow the link.

 

 

 

Fremont business honored by state senator

Submitted by Jeff Barbosa

 

In a vote of confidence in a local business, Senator Bob Wieckowski has selected Fremont-based Power Knot as his 2022 Small Business of the Year for District 10.

 

Power Knot manufactures biodigesters that are usually used in commercial kitchens, cruise ships and corporate cafeterias to reduce the expense, carbon footprint and inconvenience of disposing of food waste that would otherwise be hauled to a landfill. Power Knot develops and manufactures its products in Fremont.

 

The company was recognized August 17 as part of California Small Business Day, an annual event organized by the California Small Business Association to honor the contributions of small businesses. Awardees from each legislative district were recognized during the ceremony.

 

“I am proud to represent a district that is a leader in innovation, manufacturing and tackling issues like climate change,” Wieckowski said. “Power Knot’s machines reduce greenhouse gas emissions from food waste. This prevents methane from being released in our landfills. Not only is Power Knot providing good manufacturing jobs, but they are fulfilling an important societal need by making products that improve our environment.”

 

Earlier this year, Power Knot said it had completed orders for multiple food digester machines for Carnival Corporation, the giant cruise operator with numerous cruise line brands. It installed nearly 600 biodigesters across the Carnival fleet in support of the cruise line’s food waste management and reduction efforts.

 

“Power Knot is proud to be recognized by Senator Wieckowski for our contribution to California Senate District 10 and the wider world in general,” said Power Knot President Iain Milnes. “The LFC biodigester is a food waste digester that has been helping California businesses to reduce greenhouse gasses by keeping food waste out of landfills. Our cleantech solution has been gaining traction rapidly as the world becomes increasingly aware of the impact food waste has on the planet. With record high temperatures, we’re in a race against time to do our part and stop global warming.”

 

 

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

 

 

 

The U.S. Constitution: framework of our republic

A Tri-City Voice staff report

 

This is the third installment of a series of articles to inform our readers of basic provisions of the United States Constitution. This document, as amended, is the foundation of our system of government and although the result of ideas promulgated in 1787, has withstood the test of time. What has been called “The Great Experiment” of American democracy has proved durable, yet susceptible to external and internal challenges. In order to meet changing conditions of American society and the world around it, it is imperative that this document and its amendments is understood and appreciated.

 

Many provisions of the Constitution are open to interpretation and, since written in the 18^th century, employ archaic language and syntax. However, the ideas expressed and concept of a government ruled by the people is, and continues to be, the guiding principle. It is not the intention of these articles to examine all provisions or nuances of them, rather to raise awareness, irritate further inquiry and invite examination of this fundamental document and its effect on American life.

 

Limited quantities of pocket copies of the United States Constitution/Declaration of Independence are available from Tri-City Voice at no cost. If interested, please notify our office for details.

 

————————————————————————————————-

 

WE THE PEOPLE of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

 

 

Article 2; Section 1

Powers, Conditions and Term of Office

 

• All executive powers shall be vested in the President of the United States
• Term of office for President and Vice President is four years.
• Each State Legislature shall appoint in a manner of their choosing Electors equal to the number of representatives from their State in congress.
• No Senator or Representative or holder of Office of Trust or Profit under the United States shall be appointed as an Elector.
• Electors will vote by ballot in their own State.
• Ballots will be counted by the President of the Senate in the presence of members of the House of Representatives and Senate.
• If a tie vote, each State will have one vote to determine President.
• Following selection of President, the candidate with the next highest vote count will be Vice President – THIS CLAUSE SUPERCEEDED BY AMENDME NT XII.
• Presidential candidates must be a natural born citizen, 35 years old and a resident within the United States for a minimum of 14 years [exception at the time of Constitution signing].
• If the President is removed from office by death, resignation or inability to discharge the duties of office, the Vice President will assume the role. Congress may designate the next person in line of succession.
• The President will be compensated for service but cannot receive any other Emolument from the United States or any of them.
• The Oath of Office is as follows: I will faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States, and will to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.

 

 

Article 2: Section 2

Armed Forces, pardons and International Relations

 

• The President shall be the Commander in Chief of the Arm and Navy of the United States.
• The President can command state militia if called into service of the United States.
• The President has the power to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States except in cases of impeachment.
• The President shall commission all Officers of the United Staes.
• The President has the power with 2/3 consent of the Senate present to make treaties with other nations and appoint Ambassadors, consuls, judges and other officers of the United States.
• The President has the power to fill vacancies during Senate recess.

 

 

Article 2: Section 3

State of the Union

 

• The President shall from time to time give a Sate of the Union address to Congress recommending measures deemed import for consideration.
• The President can under extraordinary circumstances convene a special session of either or both houses of Congress.
• The President shall receive Ambassadors and other Public Ministers
• The President shall take care that the Laws of the United States are faithfully executed.

 

 

Article 2: Section 4

Impeachment

 

• The President, Vice President and all civil Officers of the United States shall be removed from Office on impeachment for Conviction of Treason, Bribery, or other High Crimes and Misdemeanors.

 

 

 

Editor’s Note:

The next installment of this series will review provisions of Article III of the United States Constitution concerning the power and authority of the courts and Judicial Branch of government.

 

 

 

Advice from bestselling steampunk and romance author

Submitted by Knuti VanHoven

 

On Saturday August 27, Fremont Area Writers will host novelist Shelley Adina via Zoom. Adina is the USA Todaybestselling author of more than 50 books under four different pseudonyms, including Adina Senft, under which she writes Amish romance. In 2021 she completed her doctorate in Creative Writing at Lancaster University in the UK with a 700-page creative thesis about Holy City, the ghost town in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

 

In May, July, and September this year, with co-writer R.E. Scott, she is releasing the Regent’s Devices novels, a steampunk adventure trilogy set in an alt-history Regency England and France. When Scott and Adina discovered that the historical figure of Sophie Blanchard was Napoleon’s real-life Chief Air Minister, planning an invasion of England by balloon, inspiration struck. A fictional daughter was invented, and her English best friend subsequently becomes the great-grandmother of the heroine of Adina’s popular 22-book Magnificent Devices steampunk series.

 

Adina will be discussing how the “blurbs” on your book covers can result in either an immediate rejection or an instant sale and explain how to use them as your opportunity to connect with readers who are seeking books like yours. Afterward, she’ll answer audience questions.

 

This event is free and open to both fans and writers of every age and skill level. You can get your link to this event by sending an email request to scottfrombayside@yahoo.com with “FAW Zoom” in your subject line. Zoom participation is free to anyone who’s a lover of books and writing.

 

You can learn more about Shelley Adina at https://www.shelleyadina.com or Fremont Area Writers at https://cwc-fremontareawriters.org.

 

 

FAW August meeting

Saturday Aug 27

2 p.m.

Via Zoom

Request link from: scottfrombayside@yahoo.com

 

 

 

It’s Phenomenal! Students explore the causes of climate change

By Karen MacLaughlin

Photos courtesy of Ronald Bye

 

California School for the Deaf (CSD) held an extended school year program that focused on the effects of fire, flood, drought and climate change in the Golden State. CSD has been in existence since 1860 and located in Fremont since 1980. The website says it is a “comprehensive Deaf-centered school that emphasizes American Sign Language and English, social justice, Deafhood, equity, respect, an early start in language development and the highest quality education for all children.” Instruction is provided for students from ages two 22. Some come from as far away as Eureka, Redding, Lake Tahoe and Fresno to participate in the school’s residential program which is available Monday through Friday in the summer.

 

Ron Bye, the school’s student information manager, coordinated the three-week program titled “Environmental Phenomenon.” Each class chose to focus on a theme based on the many natural disruptions seen this past year—such as fire, drought, lightning, deforestation and climate change. Pre-K and Kindergarten students made a movie showing why and how to recycle, complete with green screen technology and a large paper reptile. Second graders studied the effects of changing weather by monitoring the water temperature in their classroom turtle’s tank. They also solved two problems with one solution by repurposing plastic bottles to use as succulent planters. Although not directly related to changes in weather, it is worth noting that the same students also effectively cooked s’mores in a solar oven that they made from a pizza box lined with aluminum foil.

 

A favorite day for the elementary students was the boots-on-the-ground cleanup at Lake Elizabeth in late July. Each student was given a plastic bag and gloves to get the job done, and they picked up over eight pounds of trash in under two hours. They also made a 3D map of California to identify areas where drought and fire threatened the population and environment, and resurrected recycled materials by using them to make animal collages, puppets and even a few broadswords.

 

Rachel Baer, a ranger at Yellowstone National Park who also happens to be the hearing daughter of deaf parents, used her bilingual skills during a Zoom session with fifth graders to explain her work at Geyser Basin. She also held a Q&A session with the students to discuss plant and animal life and their relationship to preserving the earth. The session with Ranger Baer was included in a movie the class produced, which used animation to take the viewer from outer space right down into the Fremont classroom to look at flowers and bees under a microscope.

 

Middle school students went on field trips to Coyote Hills, Quarry Lakes, Henry Cowell State Park, Natural Bridges and Big Basin State Park. They came back and painted what they saw or, as Bye put it, “what they wanted it to look like to save the earth.” He added that the high school students took a more theoretical approach to the project by asking “What if?” “What if we took these empty cans and put pencils in them?” “What if we planted more trees?” “What if we saved electricity by turning off lights and computers when they are not being used?”

 

This summer CSD hosted the Bay Area Black Deaf Advocates (BABDA) at a week-long summer camp for four deaf children and nine hearing children of deaf adults. They learned about: self-advocacy, respecting one another, responsibility, and communication skills. “They are going through repression themselves,” said Bye, “So we are providing a place for them to use this school to host that type of camp.”

 

Bye explained that CSD places great emphasis on the value of becoming fluent in both ASL and English because language acquisition for deaf children is accelerated by learning to sign early. As one educator put it, “If we want our children to become better readers and writers, they need to learn, analyze and use ASL so they will be able to learn English vocabulary, grammar and rules.” In addition to equipping students to meet or exceed state academic standards, Bye noted, providing good role models helps students cope with the challenges of life in general. More than half of the school’s teachers and administrators are deaf adults. “We do have very good role models for our deaf children to look up to,” he said. It helps the students to feel like “We can do this!”

 

 

To find out more about the mission and work of CSD, visit csdeagles.com.

 

 

 

Mexico Tortilla Factory celebrates 50 years of food, family and cultura

By Hugo Vera

 

At the corner of Thornton and Magnolia Street in Newark, one can see a triangular building which houses the famous Mexico Tortilla Factory. For half a century, the building has continued to serve as a factory, market and deli all at once specializing in Mexican food, pan-Latin treats and pastries. To Mexican-Americans and non-Mexicans alike, Mexico Tortilla Factory's iconic logo featuring a young woman in a sombrero is the mark of hand-crafted culinary excellence that proudly adorns all Mexico Tortilla Factory-branded bags of chips, tortillas and other products. Similar to Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles in Los Angeles or Sylvia's Harlem Restaurant in New York, Mexico Tortilla Factory’s impact on cuisine and culture continues to feed and empower its growing base of customers.

 

Mexico Tortilla Factory was founded in 1972 by Rogelio and Ercilica Collazo after the couple immigrated to the United States from Mexico in 1955. Previously a truck driver in Mexico, Rogelio Collazo worked as a forklift operator at the Fisher-Body plant in Oakland before relocating to the Tri-City area when Fisher-Body became the General Motors plant in Fremont (present-day Tesla factory). Rogelio first began selling tacos to coworkers and then later assisted his brother-in-law in delivering products for “La Mexicana” restaurant. After visualizing a realistic path to their own eatery, the Collazo family took root in Newark, opened their own business and never looked back since.

 

“Rent-wise at the time, Newark made the most sense and we quickly got to work making tortillas; first from 50 pounds of corn, later 150 and more until we began mass-producing,” says current Mexico Tortilla Factory manager/owner and Newark City Councilmember Sucy Collazo (daughter of Rogelio and Ercilica). Sucy recalls the humble and challenging early days of the factory, when the family lived in a one-room cabin and when she, her mother and siblings would work the fields in Pleasanton on the weekends while her father took a year of leave to devote more time to the factory. “My parents came to this country in search of the American dream, and they were able to achieve their American dream while also building something that was their own and teaching us the value of hard work.”

 

As the business steadily grew, the Collazos were eventually able to purchase the Top Ten Market near Newark Pavilion, and by 1988, Mexico Tortilla Factory moved to the corner-facility location on Thornton where it stands today. Sucy Collazo remembers what a hard-earned milestone the reopening was for her family.

 

“Our very first customer in our [present-day] location was Nelly. My mother had prepared a plate of tacos for my father’s lunch. Nelly ate the tacos and then told us how delicious the free tacos we were offering were. We then told her, ‘Nelly, those tacos weren't for everyone, that was my dad's lunch!’ We all had a great laugh about it and today that remains our favorite story from the reopening,” she adds.

 

Throughout the subsequent three decades (and counting) Mexico Tortilla Factory on Thornton has continued to carry the old Mexican food-production ways into the future. Within the physical factory walls, masa (corn-based dough) is ground in machines, dispersed into circles on a conveyor belt and baked into fresh tortillas. Sucy Collazo has stated that while advanced machinery can accomplish even more food production automatically, certain items such as tamales are still prepared by hand to preserve the recipe and taste. Even tortilla chips are taken out of deep-fryers with tongs and packaged by hand to ensure purity of taste.

 

In addition to providing jobs for many families over the years, the factory has become synonymous with Newark and its people. When her father Rogelio passed away in 2009, Councilmember Collazo was moved by the massive turnout of mourners who came to pay their respects.

 

On June 4, 2022, Mexico Tortilla Factory hosted a 50th anniversary celebration at Magnolia Plaza. The celebration included food, live mariachi music, family-friendly activities such as face painting as well as speeches and proclamations from Newark Mayor Alan Nagy, California State Assembly members Kansen Chu and Alex Lee, and of course, Newark City Councilmember Collazo. One of Collazo’s nieces even came to the event dressed as the young woman depicted in the Mexico Tortilla Factory logo. “My father always claimed the logo was based on me, but I don't see it,” adds Collazo with a chuckle. “I think he was just trying to score brownie points.”

 

In addition to events such as the 50th anniversary celebration, Councilmember Collazo started her own organization Avanzando (Spanish for “Moving forward”) which grants academic scholarships to lower-middle class Latinx high school students in Newark. To Collazo, the mission of Avanzando perfectly aligns with everything her father stood for, which is enshrined forever in his beloved Mexico Tortilla Factory.

 

“For us, it has always been about the people and becoming a part of other's familias,” concludes Collazo. “I can't see myself ever leaving [the factory] and I can’t wait to see where the next 50 years take us.”

 

Mexico Tortilla Factory

7015 Thornton Ave., Newark

(510) 792-9909

www.mexicotortillafactory.com

 

 

 

Milpitas Unified School District breaks ground on innovation campus

Submitted by Rebecca Ellecamp

 

Milpitas Unified School District (MUSD) recently celebrated the groundbreaking of the MUSD Innovation Campus – a first-of-its-kind high school, adult education, early childhood education research, and workforce development center. Located on the site of the former Samuel Ayer High School, MUSD Innovation Campus will be a hub for future-ready learners of all ages to connect with local businesses and partner organizations within classrooms and labs tailored to provide a real-world education. The ceremony was attended by district staff and school board, Milpitas Mayor and City Councilmembers, Ayer High alumni, community members and the project team, including builder Blach Construction (Blach) and designer Quattrocchi Kwok Architects (QKA).

 

The 99,000 sq. ft. campus will comprise six new two-story buildings, as well as one modernized building, replacing much of the existing facilities of the former Ayer High School-turned-MUSD Adult School and MUSD District Office. In their place, classrooms, experimental learning labs, career simulation facilities, and science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) labs will facilitate a wide variety of programming supported by flex spaces and outdoor learning quads and courtyards. The site will also include office space for the District.

 

In order to achieve the specialization square footage desired, Blach and QKA will utilize Folia, a prefabricated classroom building solution developed jointly with GPLA Structural Engineers. The two-story Folia floorplan can be easily adapted to support the needs of MUSD. Folia’s high-efficiency design will support core sustainability goals and will be powered by MUSD’s existing photovoltaic system. Each building will include sustainable materials, energy efficient lighting, all-electric mechanical systems, stormwater catchment and water-efficient landscaping.

 

MUSD Innovation Campus is set to come to life in three phases. Phases one and two are slated to complete in Summer 2023 and Summer 2024, while phase three, which includes the workforce and education research centers, should be complete by Fall 2025. For more information, please visit: www.musd.org/musd-innovation-campus-campaign.html

 

Additionally, just prior to the groundbreaking celebration, the community joined MUSD in marking the completion of the last phase of construction of Mabel Mattos Elementary School. Named for Milpitas’ first historian who was famous locally for her apricot jam, the brightly colored school is now ready to welcome all students for grades TK-6 this coming 2022-23 school year. Both the MUSD Innovation Campus and Mattos projects were made possible by the incredible community support of Bond Measure AA.

 

 

 

Schwingfest returns to Swiss Park

Submitted by Swiss Park Newark

 

Schwingfest is coming to Newark on Friday and Saturday, September 2 -3. A Swiss Group with seven Schwingers is confirmed to wrestle in Newark as part of this celebration of the traditional sport. There will also be Dancing to the Gander-Scheiber Kapelle. Gates open at 10 a.m. on Saturday; wrestling starts 11 a.m. Prizes will be awarded after dinner.

 

On Friday, September 2, Swiss Park will host a dinner. Email aelpergruppe@gmail.com so organizers can have an accurate count.

 

Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included for purchase on Saturday.

Lunch: choice of bratwurst/Schüblig/vegetarian pasta. $15

Dinner: chicken, potatoes, salad, roll, dessert. $20

 

If you would like to spend the night next door to Swiss Park, please reserve early by calling Comfort Inn at (510) 795-7995, mentioning discount code “Schwingfest” for the rate of $89/night plus taxes. Limited rooms have been reserved for Friday and/or Saturday.

 

 

Fall Schwingfest at Newark Swiss Park

Saturday, Sept 2 – 3

Park opens: 10 a.m.

Wrestling: 11 a.m.

Swiss Park Newark

5911 Mowry Ave., Newark

(510) 936-2523

https://www.aelplergruppe.com/

https://swissparknewark.com/

Admission: $10; children 16 and under free

 

 

 

Shruthi Swara Laya celebrates 25 years

By Arathi Satish and Subha Sriram

 

Shruthi Swara Laya (SSL) school celebrates 25 years of sharing Indian cultural arts with the Fremont and Tri-City communities. Founded by director Anuradha Suresh in 1997, Shruthi Swara Laya has supported the arts education of over 2,500 students, and prepared them for debut concerts and national competitions.

 

When SSL was started, there were few South Indian Carnatic music schools. SSL taught not only South Indian music, but an umbrella of different music and dance classes. They had teachers in carnatic vocal, carnatic violin, mridangam, tabla, sitar, hindustani vocal, hindustani violin, piano and keyboard. They conducted dance classes in forms like bharatanatyam, kuchipudi, odissi and kathak. Classes in Indian languages like Tamil and Sanskrit were held too.

 

As Suresh pointed out, “We were the only one on this side of the Bay Area, other than Ali Akbar Khan in San Rafael, to have multiple disciplines under one organization. But over the years, the community grew, and along with that, the need for having this kind of multi-disciplined school. We were a pioneer in starting something like this…The way we envisioned this organization has also been evolving…I guess it’s a need-based program, so it will keep evolving.”

 

This unique school has also conducted fun events over the years. Suresh recalled a few, saying, “One of my favorites was the musical road trip. I took some students, whoever wanted to travel along, on a road trip to different California cities. In each city we went to, we did a performance. For one of the road trips we went through Concord, Sacramento, Napa…We did the road trip maybe three or four times, and one time we went all the way to LA to do another concert. Another thing we did was a musical marathon [fundraiser]: 12 hours of non-stop music…We had a stage at that time, so students would come and sing for hours on end, and they couldn’t repeat previous songs.”

 

Many students have received arts grants and awards, including the Alliance for California Traditional Arts (ACTA) grant. SSL alumni are encouraged to continue engaging with their community by teaching part-time. These teaching programs create opportunities for old and new students to mingle and create long-lasting friendships based on a mutual appreciation for Indian classical arts.

 

SSL also takes pride in creating a strong foundation for students who want to pursue other music and dance forms. Suresh and some of her students are active members in the Fremont Cultural Arts Council and strive to be ambassadors for Indian classical arts through presentations and workshops at Fremont Main Library, UC Berkeley, and other venues in the Bay Area.

 

Suresh sums up the school’s journey saying, “We are celebrating our 25th year. There have been a lot of ups and downs and a lot of learning. It hasn’t always been rosy, and it hasn’t always been bad either. In the end, you need to figure out what the needs of the students are. You give them the basic structure, work with them, make sure they understand their responsibility and they understand the beauty of this art form…and then success will naturally follow.”

 

www.shruthiswaralaya.com

 

 

Upcoming Events:

 

Shruthi Swara Laya 25th Anniversary Celebrations

Sunday, Sept 4

2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Fremont Central Park Pavilion

40204 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont

Invite only: email annumanasa@gmail.com

 

SSL student performance

Better Block Mission San Jose Program

Saturday, Sept 10

2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Ellsworth St. & Washington Ave., Fremont

www.fremont.gov

 

 

 

Women’s a cappella ensemble seeking singers

Submitted by Heidi Massie

 

Harmony Fusion, a chapter of Sweet Adelines International (SAI), is looking for new singers to join their group which is open to female singers from high school age and up.

 

The group meets at 7 p.m. most Mondays at Hill & Valley Club on B Street in Hayward. The September 19 meeting is designated as an open rehearsal night where interested singers are invited to attend as guests to learn about the group and share their vocal talents.

 

“We’re looking for women who love to sing and are interested in performing, competing, and improving their vocal skills,” said Sharon Reyes, Membership Chair. “Many of our members also sing in choruses at their place of worship or at other organizations in their communities, while others have sung in a high school or college chorus.”

 

Reyes said the group welcomes all singers with or without choral experience to the guest night to find out if Harmony Fusion is a good fit for them. “We are eager to share the sisterhood of a cappella with our guests. If you have a good ear for music, we want you!” She added that the ability to read music is not required.

 

During the interactive rehearsal, visitors will experience what it’s like to sing in the barbershop style as a member of Harmony Fusion. After a meet and greet, guests will join members on the risers to experience the joy of “ringing chords” together. Guests who are interested in further exposure to the group’s singing style will have an opportunity to attend future rehearsals and learn one full arrangement to perform at the group’s October 29 show.

 

Director Barbara Vander Putten, a SAI Certified Director and member of the SAI Region 12 coaching faculty, has directed Harmony Fusion since April 2007. Under her direction, the ensemble has earned several medals at the annual Sweet Adelines International regional contest.

 

“Although we couldn’t meet in person during the COVID-19 pandemic, we were fully engaged in learning new music and honing our skills, which paid off when we earned a bronze medal at the 2022 regional event,” Vander Putten said.

 

More information about the group is posted at www.harmonyfusion.org. For more information about the rehearsal night, call Sharon Reyes at (510) 397-1920.

 

 

Harmony Fusion Open Rehearsal

Monday, Sep 19

7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Hill & Valley Women’s Club

1808 B Street, Hayward

(510) 397-1920

www.harmonyfusion.org

 

 

 

Feeling thirsty? Head to your nearest tap

Submitted by Sharene Gonzales

 

Who needs fancy bottled water with added ingredients blended in when tap water delivered by Alameda County Water District (ACWD) is among the tastiest in the nation?

 

That’s the conclusion from judges in a “Best of Best Water Taste Test” held during a recent American Water Works Association (AWWA) conference in San Antonio, Texas. Judges sampled water from 25 water agencies from across the United States and ranked ACWD among the top five for best tasting water.

 

“Being selected to represent California and Nevada and placing as a top finalist in a nationwide taste test judged by water industry peers is a testament to our water quality,” said ACWD Board President John Weed. “Highlighting this accomplishment during National Water Quality Month validates our commitment to a mission everyone at ACWD strives to uphold daily — providing high-quality water to customers.”

 

Established in 1914 in Southern Alameda County, ACWD today provides drinking water to more than 356,000 people living in the cities of Fremont, Newark and Union City.

 

Founded in 1881, AWWA is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water. With about 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance quality of life.

 

 

 

New electric buses coming to Union City

Submitted by City of Union City

 

Union City Transit (UC Transit) is one of four Bay Area transit agencies to receive federal funding to invest in zero-emission technology for buses and other transit-related vehicles.

 

On August 18, UC Transit officials announced the agency has been awarded just over $9.3 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Low or No Emission Grant Program. These funds will be combined with other federal, state, regional, and local funds to acquire 14 battery electric buses, along with electric vehicle charging infrastructure to support the buses and smaller electric vehicles in the UC Transit fleet. It also will provide workforce development and training to staff who will maintain and operate the vehicles. The total estimated cost of the project is $18,652,692.

 

The local grant is part of $1.66 billion in FTA grants funded by President Joe Biden’s recently passed Bipartisan Infrastructure Law which provides funding to transit agencies, territories and states to invest in 150 bus fleets and facilities. UC Transit was one of the agencies to receive funding out of 530 applications FTA received this year. Other nearby agencies receiving funding include Napa Valley Transportation Authority, Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority and San Joaquin Regional Transit District.

 

UC Transit officials said it will take time to implement the updated infrastructure, but they are hopeful that riders will see the benefits from the award when the transit system celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024.

 

More information about Union City Transit, including bus schedules and operating hours, is posted on its webpage at www.unioncity.org/170/Union-City-Transit.

 

 

 

Teenage humanitarian advocates for those with disabilities

Submitted by James Bell

 

While most 16-year-olds are focused on learning to drive and sleeping in on summer mornings, Yash Kilam of Fremont, is keeping his full attention on helping others. The rising senior at Mission San Jose High School spends a great deal of his time researching and lobbying for legislation that protects and supports those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

 

It’s a cause that hits close to home, he said. “When I was diagnosed with ADHD, I was told I was smart. But apparently not smart enough to know why I stood out like a sore thumb among my peers. I began to learn about disabilities and realized how inclusion is still a tall order,” he said.

 

Kilam said the social awkwardness he experienced as a young child inspired him to become a changemaker. For his 10th birthday, instead of gifts, he asked his guests to contribute to his fundraiser for Las Trampas, an organization dedicated to assisting individuals with developmental and neurological disabilities. Kilam raised over $4,000 and was invited to tour the facility and get a closer look at technologies purchased with the help of the donation. There he met individuals who used wheelchairs, tube-feeding, or alternative communication methods. His fundraising resulted in the acquisition of a Proloquo2Go touch-operated learning device for non-verbal communication.

 

Kilam recalls the moment when a disabled person first tried using the device. “Upon suddenly having the world at his fingertips, Danny tried to say a joke using the keypad and he broke into an infectious laugh. Danny has cerebral palsy. [His] joy was gratifying, humbling, and, above all, motivating. I had a connection in that moment, and I knew that all I wanted to do was help people.” Kilam found his calling.

 

Who better to advocate for inclusion of people with neurological disabilities than someone who’s experienced it firsthand? “The best coaches are those that have played the game,” Kilam said. In high school, he pushed to start a club at his school focusing on advocacy for those with neurological disabilities, but the school student council turned his idea down twice.

 

After his club was rejected, Kilam started the nonprofit Disability Rights Association in 2021 along with his club officers. “One must not lose heart as one has to lose to win. With a nonprofit, we have a larger presence and many more opportunities to make a difference,” he said. In less than a year, the nonprofit has garnered 3,400 followers. “As the founder…I launch letter-writing and petition-signing campaigns with my team officers and our three thousand members,” Kilam explained.

 

Kilam says as the nonprofit continues to gain strength, he never loses sight of the fact that there is so much more to do to educate, inform and assist those with disabilities. His team wrote to House Representative Rohit Khanna, Senator Diane Emily Goldman, and Senator Alejandro Padilla urging them to support bills imperative to the safety of students with disabilities. In their letters to elected officials, they demand allocation of federal funds for school personnel training specific to the needs of students with disabilities as well as the appointment of certified crisis intervention personnel to make evidence-based decisions for misconduct of students with disabilities.

 

Inspired by the Crip Camp changemakers like activists Ed Roberts and Judith Heumann, who advocate for disabled access in public transports and other causes, Kilam plans to recruit students with neurological disabilities to form a support club to help peers through school life challenges. “We need to come together and stand strong,” he said. His team is initiating collaboration with local organizations like Parents Helping Parents, Pacific Autism Center for Education, Disabled Students’ Program Berkeley to form a local network of student volunteers. “Social acceptance will help us feel good about ourselves, motivate us to advocate for change and make school life fun and rewarding,” he said.

 

Kilam may only be a high school student, but his message to his generation is to use passion to make a change in the world. “We are learning more about how to make our voices heard, exercise our civic duty, and striving to make the world more inclusive and a better place to live,” he said. Yash Kilam is confident that his generation has the grit and heart it will take to overcome obstacles towards disability rights.

 

 

disabilityrightsassociation.com

 

 

 

Ask the DMV

 

 Get Ahead of Back-to-School Season with the DMV’s Online Services

 

Back-to-school season is right around the corner, so check off your DMV to-do list faster through the DMV’s online services before you’re back in charge of carpool duty! You can now complete most DMV transactions from the comfort of your couch including renewing your vehicle registration, starting an application for a REAL ID, updating your address, and more! Dmv.ca.gov/online – ready when you are.

 

Q1: My teen just turned 16 and they are ready to get their first driver’s license. Can their first license be a REAL ID?

A1: Yes, save yourself and your new driver the hassle of upgrading later. Just remember – any teen under 18 years old will need to visit the DMV office after their application to take the in-person driving tests. Visit dmv.ca.gov/realid to start the online application today.

 

Q2: Can I apply for an ID card for a minor using the online application?

A2: Yes. A parent or guardian can use their own email account when completing the electronic application for minors if the minor does not have their own email account.

 

Q3: I am on summer vacation and can’t visit a DMV office to renew my license, is there an online option available?

A3: Yes, most people can renew their license or ID card through the DMV website by just filling out a simple application and paying the renewal fee. Check your most recent renewal notice to see if you’re qualified to renew online!

 

 

The article is distributed by the California DMV. For more information or answers to questions not listed here, please visit www.dmv.ca.gov/online.

 

 

 

HISTORY MATTERS

By John Grimaldi and David Bruce Smith

August 16 through 31

 

Unsolved mystery

It is a 432-year-old unsolved mystery: how did 100 — or more — colonists disappear on Roanoke Island?

 

According to History.com, “The Roanoke…colony, the first English settlement in the New World, was founded by English explorer Sir Walter Raleigh in August 1585. The first Roanoke colonists did not fare well, suffering from dwindling food supplies and Indian attacks, and in 1586 they returned to England aboard a ship captained by Sir Francis Drake. In 1587, Raleigh sent out another group of 100 colonists under John White. White returned to England to procure more supplies, but the war with Spain delayed his return to Roanoke. By the time he finally returned on August 18, 1590, everyone had vanished.”

 

But one clue was left behind: “CROATOAN,” was carved on the wooden barricade of the outpost. White speculated the pilgrims had moved to Croatoan Island fifty miles away, but no survivors were ever found.

 

The Grateful American Book Prize recommends “Roanoke: A Novel of the Lost Colony” by Sonia Levitin.

 

Lincoln’s spymaster

War and other crises beget snooping, scrutinizing, and spying. According to the National Park Service, “Around 1850, [Allan Pinkerton] organized America’s first private detective agency specializing in railway thefts. Its motto was ‘We never sleep’ and its logo — a prominent, unblinking eye — came to be associated with all future ‘private eyes.’

 

Shortly before the beginning of the Civil War, the sleuth was hired to protect President Lincoln — and later — to supervise the Union’s new secret service agency working to detain Confederate agents; by August 23, 1861, he had unveiled a Washington DC espionage network operated by the widowed socialite, Rose O’Neal Greenhow. She was detained, imprisoned briefly, and deported to Virginia, with her daughter, “Little Rose.”

 

The Grateful American Book Prize recommends “Lincoln’s Spymaster: Allan Pinkerton, America’s First Private Eye” by Samantha Seiple.

 

Equal justice

The website of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) remembers Thurgood Marshall as “a civil rights lawyer who used the courts to fight Jim Crow and dismantle segregation in the U.S.”

 

He was the nation’s first African American Supreme Court Justice, best known for arguing the historic 1954 Brown v. Board of Education which affirmed that segregated schools — across the land — were unconstitutional. Nominated by President Lyndon Johnson, and confirmed 69-11 by the Senate on August 30, 1967, Marshall sat on the bench 24 years, and left a formidable legacy of decisions based on “equal justice for all.”

 

The Grateful American Book Prize recommends “Young Thurgood: The Making of a Supreme Court Justice” by Larry Gibson.

 

 

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

 

 

 

News and notes from around the world

Submitted by The Association of Mature American Citizens

 

Her mind believed and her body achieved

You don’t want to mess with Tamara Walcott of Laurel, Maryland, suggests the Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC). She’s the new Guinness World Record holder for cumulative weightlifting, having won the title by lifting a combined total of 1,620.4 pounds in a squat, bench press and deadlift competition in Manassas, Virginia sponsored by the World Raw Powerlifting Federation. Tamara lived up to her motto that says, “the impossible is possible.” See video of Tamara Walcott on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJ5iYcB-dss.

 

At long last

Raymond Turner lives in Fort Worth, Texas and works at the Cook Children's Hospital there. Christina Sadberry also lives in Fort Worth and frequently takes her 4-year-old son to the very same hospital for medical treatments. Officials from AMAC report that one day not so long ago, Turner’s wife, Maria, got him one of those DNA kits that tells you about your genetic heritage. And, you guessed it, Ms. Sadberry was a match. So, Maria tracked her down on Facebook and they made a connection. Christina got a chance to see a photo of Mr. Turner and recalled seeing him at the hospital that very same day. The long-lost siblings had finally found each other. See their reunion on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRKLC0Dm-As.

 

How sweet it is

That sweet tooth of yours might land you a $78,000 a year job [$100,000 Canadian dollars], according to AMAC. The online company, Candy Funhouse, located in Ontario, Canada, is looking for a Chief Candy Officer whose principal task is to conduct taste tests. The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Jamal Hejazi, had this to say about the job: “Imagine your best memories around candy, and having that every day at work.” See Candy Funhouse recruitment video on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1GVe5l0jL0.

 

 

The Association of Mature American Citizens is a conservative 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.

 

 

 

Park It: Lost on a deserted island

By Ned MacKay

 

All sorts of programs highlighting the world of nature are on the calendar to make summer enjoyable in the East Bay Regional Parks. For example, you can learn what you need to survive if you are stranded on a deserted island. The chances are small unless you sign up for a television reality show, but you never know.

 

The program is an offering of Family Nature Fun Hour in the Doug Siden Visitor Center at Crown Beach in Alameda. It’s from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 27, and repeats at the same time on Sunday, August 28. It’s free of charge. The visitor center is at 1252 McKay Avenue off Alameda’s Central Avenue. For information, call (510) 544-3187.

 

 

Or you can go on an easy walk with naturalist Anthony Fisher from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 27, starting at the Environmental Education Center in Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley. The group will explore the nature area’s plant and animal life. The walk is free of charge and reservations are not needed. The center is at the north end of Tilden’s Central Park Drive, accessible via Canon Drive from Grizzly Peak Boulevard in Berkeley. For information, call (510) 544-2233.

 

 

Another easy program is a naturalist-led Saturday Stroll from 9:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on August 27 starting at the Lake Chabot Marina near Castro Valley. This is a fairly flat, 3 ¾-mile walk from the marina to the dam and back, during which the naturalist will discuss the history and wildlife of the area. Lake Chabot Marina is on Lake Chabot Road just north of Castro Valley. There’s a parking fee; the program is free of charge. For information, call (510) 544-3187.

 

 

Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch is notable for both its cultural and natural history. Learn more about the preserve’s plants and animals during a naturalist-led two-mile walk from 10 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturday, August 27. Meet in the parking lot at the end of Somersville Road, 3½ miles south of Highway 4. The program is free; reservations are not required. Black Diamond Mines has a parking fee of $5 per vehicle when the kiosk is attended.

 

 

Early risers can beat the heat with a Sunrise Stroll from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. on Saturday, August 27 at Contra Loma Regional Park in Antioch, led by a Black Diamond Mines naturalist. It’s a walk around the reservoir to view the sunrise and watch the birds. Bring coffee or tea if you wish. Binoculars will be provided.

 

This program is free, but there is a $5 parking fee. Contra Loma is at the end of Frederickson Lane off Golf Course Road. Follow the “Naturalist Program This Way” signs to the East Shore Trail parking area. For information, call (510) 544-2750.

 

 

Kids up to age 10 will enjoy a Park N Play program from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sunday, August 28 at Del Valle Regional Park visitor center south of Livermore, led by naturalist Alex Collins. Fresh air, nature games and wildlife exploration are all on the agenda. Parental participation is required. It’s free and advance registration is not necessary.

 

Del Valle Regional Park is on Del Valle Road off Mines Road about nine miles south of Livermore. There’s a parking fee of $6 per vehicle. For information, call (510) 544-3146.

 

 

“Animal Tails” is the topic of a story time starting at 1 p.m. on Sunday, August 28 at Sunol Regional Wilderness in southern Alameda County with naturalist Betty Villalta. It’s part of the park’s Nature Stories series. The program is designed for ages four through 10, and parent participation is required. After the story, there will be an activity or craft-making.

 

Sunol is at the end of Geary Road off Calaveras Road about five miles south of I-680 and the town of Sunol. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. The program is free. For information, call (510) 544-3249.

 

 

There are lots of other programs scheduled in the regional parks. For full information, visit the website, www.ebparks.org.

 

 

 

Beat the Heat

By Daniel O’Donnell

 

Earth’s climate has cycles that occur over different time durations. Some cycles run their course in years, while others conclude in decades, centuries or millennia. Most scientists agree that the current cycles are all trending towards producing warmer weather. Although the major effects of the cyclical warming trends will not be seen for decades, more immediate changes such as new daily temperature highs are being felt on a regular basis by many; gardeners included. Just a few degrees warmer can make gardening uncomfortable and even put someone at risk of developing heat stroke. However, there are some guidelines and gear that can help beat the heat, even on hot days that might not be setting record highs.

 

There are places on the planet that have much hotter summer temperatures than the Bay Area, yet the locals manage to spend time outside. African countries start safari tours in the early morning or early evening, the Spanish take siestas during the hottest part of the day, and many Middle Eastern countries host sporting events in the evenings. Deciding to garden around sunrise or sunset is a great way to beat the heat and literally see the garden in a new light.

 

Choosing where to work in the garden can help alleviate mid-day heat. During heat waves, take the opportunity to work on projects under trees. Air temperatures can be 25° cooler at ground level in the shade of a tree compared to 10 feet away in direct sunlight. Warmer air rises so the higher up a person works, the warmer the temperature even in the shade. Weeding, trimming up the bases of shrubs, and auditing irrigation lines may not be the most exciting gardening work, but they do need to be done periodically, so why not do them on a hot day and save more glamorous work for cooler days?

 

Loose clothing allows air to pass along a person’s body, speeding up sweat evaporation that cools the skin. Many sources recommend wearing white or light-colored clothing. However, the Bedouin, nomadic people who have historically inhabited Middle Eastern deserts, wear black during the day and still stay cool. What scientists found was that black fabrics were best at absorbing body heat while white fabrics reflect the sun’s heat making both color choices equally acceptable.

 

There are certain brands like Coolibar, Columbia and REI that specialize in UV protective clothing. Options rated UPF 50 and above can keep a gardener cooler in direct sunlight. The attire should be tightly woven and offer full coverage for optimal UV and heat protection. Unbleached cotton and rayon fabrics absorb the sun’s rays, while polyester and moisture wicking fabrics with a high sheen reflect them. Many UV protective garments also have flip-up sun collars, cuffs to extend coverage on the back of the hands, hats with neck capes, vents, and mesh to aid in cooling as well.

 

Another clothing option is to purchase a cooling vest, bandanna or hat. Cooling clothing works in two different ways. Evaporative cooling items use the natural process of evaporation. These garments are made of non-toxic materials that absorb hundreds of times their weight in water. When soaked and worn, the stored water is slowly released through evaporation which helps transfer body heat into the air.

 

Clothing incorporating phase change materials has pockets containing non-toxic inserts that have been frozen or submerged in ice water. Unlike gel or frozen water inserts, the phase change material maintains a constant cool temperature for up to four hours during its transition from solid to liquid. Inserts can be refrozen when necessary. They can also be purchased for use with normal clothing or hats.

 

What you eat before gardening on a scorching day can impact how hot you feel. Spicy foods can stimulate a low level of sweating which will have a cooling effect. Carb- and meat-heavy meals take more work for the body to metabolize which raises the body’s core temperature far more than lighter meals of fruits and nuts.

 

Drinking a hot beverage when it is warm outside can cool you down if you are not already sweating. Drinking something ice cold can cool your internal temperature rapidly, making your body compensate by raising its core temperature. Drinking a hot beverage will trigger the body’s sweat response and only raise the internal temperature slightly. As long as sweat evaporates from your skin, hot drinks will keep you cooler. If you are already sweaty and dripping, the effectiveness of a hot drink will be lost and a cold drink will be more refreshing.

 

On very hot days when hot drinks are not effective, having access to cold drinks is crucial. Steel water bottles with double walled insulation keep liquids colder for much longer than traditional water bottles. The vacuum between the walls prevents outside heat from transferring to internal liquid for hours.

 

Using all means possible to stay cooler while working in the garden will give you the best chance of beating the heat. Even if it gets too hot to stay outside, making the best effort possible to stay cool and safe is a win.

 

 

Daniel O'Donnell is the co-owner and operator of an organic landscape design/build company in Fremont. www.Chrysalis-Gardens.com

 

 

 

 

Alameda County Water District Board

August 11, 2022

 

Consent Calendar:

• Approve minutes from July 14 board meeting and July 20 special board meeting.
• Ratify payment of audited demands dated July 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2022.
• Approve a public water system extension agreement with NewPark Mall, L.P., Tract 8606, NewPark Mall – Costco.
• Reaffirm a State of Emergency resolution regarding COVID-19 pandemic health and safety concerns that impact the ability for meetings to be held safely in person.
• Authorize an agreement for Water Efficiency and Conservation School Education Services.
• Approve the Commercial, Industrial, and Institutional Water Efficient Technology Incentive and amend the ACWD rate and fee schedule.

 

Action Items:

• Authorize an amendment to the agreement for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) software and Information Technology Services. Motion unanimously adopted.
• Public hearing to receive comments on the draft “Alameda County Water District Report on Water Quality Relative to Public Health Goals 2019-2021.”

 

Board of Director’s Report:

• Director Sethy attended the Association of California Water Agencies Region 1 Program and Tour in Eureka, California on July 7-8 and gave a summary.

 

General Manager’s Report:

• Ed Stevenson gave an update on the COVID-19 pandemic and California state drought developments.

 

 

John Weed, President             Aye

Aziz Akbari                            Aye

James Gunther                        Aye

Judy Huang                             Aye

Paul Sethy                               Aye

 

 

 

Hayward mayor delivers final State of the City address

Submitted by City of Hayward

 

For those who may have missed it, Hayward Mayor Barbara Halliday’s latest State of the City addressed has been posted on the city’s YouTube channel. The address, delivered June 23, is delivered annually by the mayor at an event supporting Hayward Chamber of Commerce's Leadership Hayward program and, by invitation, to meetings of other groups and organizations.

 

This year’s address was Halliday’s last as the city’s mayor, as the council lineup will change after the November election. In her address, Halliday discussed the city's progress under its City Council-adopted Strategic Roadmap plan. The roadmap identifies six priorities, which are intended to guide policymaking, budgeting, and new projects and programs.

 

• Preserve, protect and produce housing for all
• Grow the economy
• Invest in infrastructure
• Confront climate crisis and champion environmental justice
• Strengthen organizational health
• Enhance community safety and quality of life

 

To see video of Halliday’s address, visit the City of Hayward’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/watch?v=n48_OIwu-bY.

 

 

 

Milpitas City Council

August 9, 2022

 

Proclamations:

• August was proclaimed as American Muslim Appreciation Month.

 

Consent Calendar:

• Acceptance of public improvements for Anton Ascend and Anton Aspire Residential Projects as shown on public improvement plans.
• Acceptance of the completed public improvements for the Centre Pointe – Summerhill Phase 1A Residential Project as shown on public improvement plans.
• Approved budget appropriation for use in City Capital Improvement Program Project, American Disability Act Curb Ramp Transition Program.
• Authorized a Stormwater Management Facilities Operation and Maintenance Agreement for S&B Milpitas, LLC for Lantana at 720 Montague Expressway.

 

Public Hearings:

• Confirmed 2022 Weed Abatement Assessment Report and the Assessment List to be entered into tax assessment rolls.
• Certified election results and added the property located at 150 Market Street into Community Facilities District No. 2008-1 (Annexation No. 23).
• Adopted the Climate Action Plan Update and Addendum to the Milpitas General Plan 2040 EIR for the Milpitas Climate Action Plan Update.
• Adopted Water Master Plan and directed staff to return with a five-year rate study by December 2022; (2) adopted Sewer Master Plan and direct staff to return with a five-year rate study by December 2022; (3) adopted Storm Master Plan and direct staff to return to Council with various funding options for the Stormwater System by December 2022; and (4) adopted the City of Milpitas Utility Master Plans – Addendum to the environmental impact report for the Milpitas General Plan.
• Amended sections of the Milpitas Municipal Code relating to non-residential building heights and determined that the Municipal Code amendment is exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act guidelines.
• Amended sections of the Milpitas Municipal Code relating to outdoor music in bars and restaurants, and review and permitting requirements for special events.
• Determined that the Municipal Code amendment is exempt from California Environmental Quality Act guidelines.

 

Community Development:

• Received a progress report on the work completed and existing conditions analysis from Raimi and Associates and staff on Housing Opportunity Zones. Discussed project objectives and priorities, and provided direction on key planning concepts and land use strategies.

 

 

Rich Tran (Mayor)                              Aye

Carmen Montano (Vice Mayor)         Aye

Anthony Phan                                     Aye

Karina Dominguez                             Aye

Evelyn Chua                                       Aye

 

 

 

Ohlone College seeks bond oversight committee member

Submitted by Ohlone College

 

Ohlone Community College District is seeking a member of a Bona-fide Taxpayer Association/Organization and a member at large to serve with other community members on the Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee.

 

The Oversight Committee reviews the implementation of the Measure G Bond program to ensure the funds are allocated appropriately. The committee meets quarterly to review reports of expenditures of bond funds by the college district, presents the Board of Trustees with reports outlining their activities and conclusions regarding Measure G Bond proceeds, and informs the public of the district’s progress on Measure G activities.

 

Measure G is a $349 million bond measure, passed by voters in November 2010, which authorizes funding for needed repairs, upgrades, and construction projects primarily on Ohlone College's Fremont campus.

 

All bond measures for educational facilities in the state are required to have an oversight committee comprised of independent citizens that review and approve expenditures of bond funds to ensure that they are spent according to the provisions of the bond. The Citizens’ Bond Oversight Committee is appointed by the Ohlone College Board of Trustees to work with the college.

 

Applications can be downloaded at www.ohlone.edu/go/bondapply and mailed to Ohlone Community College District, Administrative Services Office, 43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont, California, 94539. They also can be sent via email to lperez16@ohlone.edu.

 

For details, visit www.ohlone.edu/go/bondapply or contact the Administrative Services Office at (510) 659-7338.

 

 

 

Union City City Council

July 26, 2022

 

Proclamations and Presentations:

• Update on Cargill Mixed Sea Salt Pipeline Project impacting Union City Boulevard, Notice of Preparation, presented by East Bay Discharge Authority.
• Update on Union City Boulevard Bike Lanes Project presented by Kimley-Horn.
• Update on Human Resources Department Operational Plan and Onboarding Presentation, by Lilybell Nakamura, Human Resources Director.

 

Consent Calendar:

• Waive further reading of proposed ordinance
• Approve minutes from city council meetings held July 12, 2022.
• Adopt an amendment with Bay Area Tree Specialists, in the amount of $500,000 for the 2022-2023 Tree Pruning Project, for a total contract amount of $1,160,000.
• Adopt a cost sharing agreement between the city and Cargill Incorporated for the Union City Boulevard Bike Lanes Project, and increasing the revenue projections in the Gas Tax Fund by $405,000.
• Award a contract with Ray’s Electric, in the amount of $170,334 for the enhancement of pedestrian infrastructure at James Logan High School and Guy Emanuele, Jr. Elementary School Project, and appropriate an additional $8,367 of Gas Tax Funds, bringing total project cost to $187,367.
• Adopt a resolution approving the city’s investment policy.
• Adopt a resolution endorsing Alameda County Home Together 2026 Draft Implementation Plan.
• Approve an amendment to the Classification Plan and a side letter between the city of Union City and Service Employees International Union Local 1021 to create Technical Support Specialist I and Technical Support Specialist II positions for the Information Technology Services Department and approve an amendment to the city’s Compensation Plan and Salary Schedule.
• Approve the migration of the police department’s cellular service from Verizon to FirstNet by AT&T, for a one-time equipment cost of $6,755.98, a one-time credit of $18,275.00 and a monthly service charge of $4,028.15, for a total two-year cost of $85,156.58, with agreements to purchase the new equipment and services.
• Approve the replacement of computers and peripherals for city staff and police vehicles through provider Dell Technologies, for a total four-year least cost of approximately $545,000.

 

City Manager Report:

• Report and City Council resolution approving an amendment to the Compensation and Benefit Plan for unrepresented employees.

 

 

Mayor Carol Dutra-Vernaci   Absent

Vice Mayor Jaime Patiño       Aye

Pat Gacoscos                           Aye

Emily Duncan                         Aye

Gary Singh                              Aye

 

 

 

BART Police Log

Submitted by Les Mensinger and BART PD

 

Monday, August 15

• At 11:18 a.m. officers responded to a report about an unresponsive adult male in the free area of San Leandro station. Fire and emergency medical services personnel arrived to help, but the male was pronounced dead. No foul play was suspected.

 

• At 5:34 p.m. a man identified by police as Kyle Clary, 28, of San Francisco was detained at Hayward station on suspicion of fare evasion. A record check showed three warrants charging various health and safety violations. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

• At 6:43 p.m. a man identified by police as Tylor Bartos, 30, of San Francisco was arrested at Milpitas station on suspicion of carrying a concealed dirk or dagger and providing false identification to an officer. He was booked into Santa Clara County Main Jail.

 

 

Wednesday, August 17

• At 1:09 p.m. a man identified by police as Lonnie Hatfield, 35, of Sacramento was stopped at Hayward station on suspicion of fare evasion. A record check showed an outstanding $5,000 warrant. He was arrested on the warrant and on suspicion of trespassing on transit-related property. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

• At 6:29 p.m. a man identified by police as Cody Kidd, 30, of San Francisco was detained at San Leandro station on suspicion of fare evasion. He was arrested on suspicion of unlawful possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphernalia. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

 

 

Police to host community barbecue

Submitted by San Leandro PD

 

A barbecue is often a good time to meet friends and neighbors and promote community togetherness and safety. That’s the idea behind a free United 4 Safety BBQ & Badges community barbecue planned by the San Leandro Police Department.

 

San Leandro residents are invited to visit the police station on E. 14th Street on Saturday, August 27 to meet and get to know police officers and other department members while enjoying a free barbecue lunch. The four-hour event will include various children’s activities including a photo opportunity with McGruff the Crime Dog.

 

 

United 4 Safety BBQ & Badges

Saturday, Aug 27

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

San Leandro Police Department

901 E. 14th St., San Leandro

crimeprevention@sanleandro.org

(510) 577-3228

Free

 

 

 

Fremont Police Log

Submitted by Monica Leon, Fremont PD

 

Wednesday, August 17

• At about 7:30 p.m. officers responded to a report about a male floating in the water near the pier at Don Edwards Preserve. Witnesses told officers the male fell from the pier, but attempts to rescue him were unsuccessful. An extensive search involving several agencies was made, but the male was not found. The next day at about 7:30 a.m. Fremont Fire Department responded to a report about a deceased male in the water. The Alameda County Coroner’s Office will determine the cause of death while Fremont police investigate the incident.

 

 

Thursday, August 18

• At about 11:42 a.m. Officer Howell located a stolen vehicle occupied by two people. Howell called for backup officers, then made a traffic enforcement stop. The driver cooperated with officers and both people were safely taken into custody. Inside the vehicle Howell found a loaded handgun reported stolen in a residential burglary in Contra Costa County. The case will be presented to the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office for charging.

 

 

 

Stolen French bulldog found, reunited with owner

Submitted by Fremont Police Department

 

A French bulldog puppy named Frankie that was snatched from a 7-Eleven store parking lot in central Fremont is back at home with his relieved owners after two weeks of uncertainty.

 

According to Fremont Police Department officials, the 3-month-old dog was taken Wednesday, August 3 while his owner was putting items inside a car with the dog waiting nearby. Police said the eight-pound dog was not wearing a collar at the time.

 

Frankie’s owners offered a $700 reward for his safe return with no questions asked, police said in a Monday, August 15 social media post. Persistence and patience paid off, as police said Frankie was found the morning of Wednesday, Aug. 17 and reunited with his owners at the Fremont Police Station. Police did not elaborate on how Frankie was found.

 

“We are so thankful that Frankie is safe, and we are teary-eyed as we witness the reunion between Frankie and his owner,” police wrote in a Facebook post.

 

 

 

Milpitas Police Log

Submitted by Milpitas PD

 

Wednesday, August 3

• At 11:28 a.m. an officer spotted a stolen vehicle from San Jose near the 1100-Block of Glacier Ave. The driver, a 26-year-old San Jose man, fled in the vehicle when he saw officers and then collided with an unoccupied vehicle. Officers and detectives quickly set up a perimeter and found the man nearby. The man was booked into jail on charges of possessing a stolen vehicle and hit and run.

 

 

Saturday, August 6

• At 10:40 a.m. an officer found a stolen vehicle from San Jose near the 1000-Block of Great Mall Drive. The driver, a 19-year-old San Jose resident, was arrested and booked into jail for on charges of possessing a prohibited baton, stolen vehicle, narcotics and numerous warrants.

 

• At 11:55 p.m. officers responded to the 500-Block of Cottonwood Lane on a report about two people stealing from a storage unit. Officers located a 46-year-old San Jose resident and a 32-year-old Milpitas resident. Both suspects were arrested and booked into jail on charges of burglary and conspiracy.

 

 

Wednesday, August 10

• At 2:28 a.m. officers responded to the 70-Block of Glistening Court to investigate a report about someone possibly vandalizing a vehicle. Upon arrival, officers contacted a 28-year-old transient from Milpitas and discovered the suspect had burglarized a vehicle. The suspect was arrested and booked into jail on a charge of auto burglary.

 

• At 3:06 a.m. officers responded to an in-progress auto burglary report near the 500-Block of Amalfi Loop. Officers arrived and arrested a 29-year-old San Jose resident who was driving a stolen vehicle. The suspect, who was on Federal Probation for a narcotic offense, was in possession of stolen property from an auto and residential burglary in a neighboring jurisdiction. The suspect was booked into jail for possession of a stolen vehicle with prior theft convictions, burglary, possession of stolen property, and a Federal Probation hold.

 

• At 5:25 p.m. officers conducted a theft investigation near the 1000-Block of Great Mall Drive and contacted two Oakland residents, ages 18 and 13. A record check showed the 18-year-old had a $50,000 felony warrant for assault with a deadly weapon; he was arrested and booked into jail for the warrant. The 13-year-old was arrested and booked into juvenile hall on a charge of possessing stolen property.

 

 

 

New sports complex and clubhouse in Fremont

Submitted by Ben Musolf

 

Designed with multiple options for social and corporate gatherings and fitness/sports activities, Fremont’s all-new Mission Peak Sportsplex has something for nearly everyone.

 

Golf simulators with over 130 of the world’s top courses, golf lessons and recreational golf with an on-staff Professional Golfers Association pro, a full retail and fitting center offering TaylorMade, Mizuno and Callaway golf equipment. A rock-climbing facility with 18,000 lineal feet of climbing and bouldering walls open to the public for daily climbing with over 1800 members. Home of City Beach Volleyball Club offering a year-round premiere girls volleyball club along with weekend and daily drop-in play, Bocce courts, or just a place to hang out and watch the daily sports updates—Mission Peak Sportsplex is BUILT for the sports enthusiast.

 

With tons of space, the Complex is definitely perfect for fun corporate gatherings and events. Add the Clubhouse Bistro and full bar, and the Mission Peak Sportsplex is Fremont’s new place for a great time.

 

 

Mission Peak Sportsplex

4020 Technology Pl., Fremont

(510) 651-2500

missionpeaksportsplex.com

 

 

 

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

 

 

 

Leniency

 

We are very lenient to criminals. While reading the Tri-City Voice (August 16), I spotted three crime reports:

• Stolen catalytic converter gang busted in Fremont
• Shooting suspect arrested in Union City
• Homicide investigation in Hayward

 

And I am wondering why we are not forceful in punishing these criminals for the rest of their lives behind bars?

 

I suppose because we are taking care of them on humanitarian grounds due to health and mental issues. It is not going to make them good citizens of society unless we treat them as bad guys. I blame our lousy bail and parole system that has totally failed. The fact of the matter is, we are very lenient in punishing murderers, robbers, shooters, kidnappers, purse-snatchers and rapists at all levels compared to other civilized nations.

 

An overhaul of the judicial system is necessary to curb spreading crimes throughout the United States.

 

Zafar Yousufzai

Fremont

 

 

 

Honor Roll

 

Lehigh University, Pennsylvania

Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship

• Jennifer Liu of Fremont

 

Bradley University, Illinois

Excellence in Service Award, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

• Sarah Dove of Castro Valley

 

Ohio Wesleyan University

Spring 2022 Dean’s List

• Andrew Chang of Milpitas
• Brian Fu of Fremont
• Fernanda Gonzalez of Hayward
• Riddhi Joshi of Fremont
• Ellyn Xu of Fremont

 

 

 

New city executive named in San Leandro

Submitted by Paul Sanftner

 

1. Michael Yuen, an experienced executive with extensive public management and finance experience has been appointed as Finance Director for City of San Leandro.

 

Yuen fills the vacancy created by former Finance Director Susan Hsieh who accepted another public sector opportunity. In his new position, which he starts August 29, Yuen will be responsible for the city’s budget, investment plans, financial reporting, auditing, general financial management, and managing the City’s risk management program.

 

“I am pleased to appoint Michael as the Finance Director,” said San Leandro City Manager Fran Robustelli. “Michael’s public management experience, financial acuity, and seasoned leadership will guide our Finance Department to better serve our residents. Michael has big picture ideas and methods to implement those ideas.”

 

Yuen brings with him more than 20 years of local government experience, starting with the State of Illinois and recently leading as the Chief Executive Officer for the Superior Court of California, County of San Francisco. In that position, Yuen was responsible for overseeing 500 non-judicial employees, balancing a $90 million budget, promoting culture and diversity initiatives, and modernizing court operations.

 

“I am honored to be joining the City of San Leandro, where I look forward to stewarding public resources to support programs and services for residents while maintaining the city’s overall long-term fiscal sustainability.” Yuen said.

 

Yuen holds a political science degree from Illinois State University and Master of Public Administration degree from San Francisco State University. He also speaks fluent Cantonese.

 

 

 

Fremont Symphony selects new leader

Submitted by Fremont Symphony

 

After a nationwide search that attracted dozens of candidates, officials from Fremont Symphony have appointed Barett Hoover as its new executive director.

 

In a statement released August 16, Lisa Lorenz, president of the Fremont Symphony Board, said Hoover is coming in at a significant time in the symphony’s 58-year history as it bounces back from the pandemic and renews the momentum that began under outgoing Executive Director, Paul Iannaccone, and Jung-Ho Pak, current conductor and artistic advisor.

 

“Barett comes to us from Honolulu, where he held the position of Director of Artistic Administration at Hawai’i Opera Theatre, Theatre Manager at Leeward Theatre, and most recently, General Manager of Chamber Music Hawai’i,” Lorenz said. “He brings his vast experience in all aspects of the performing arts along with a strong track record of fundraising and a master's degree in business, and we are excited to have him.”

 

Hoover said he is looking forward to the move. “I am thrilled to be moving to such a vibrant and diverse community and working with the wonderful people at Fremont Symphony. Fremont's mission of ‘Enriching the Soul and Inspiring the Mind' is why I got into the arts in the first place, and it's an honor to be able to work with Maestro Pak and the FSO Board to create exceptional experiences for our audience.”

 

More information about the symphony is posted on its website at www.fremontsymphony.org.

 

 

 

LOV director Shirley Sisk retires

Submitted by League of Volunteers

 

Shirley Sisk, longtime Newark resident who founded League of Volunteers, a non-profit agency that provides programs and services to people in need in the Tri-City Area, has retired from the agency after more than 40 years. The Board of Directors at the League of Volunteers (LOV) announced that founder and long-time executive director, Shirley Sisk retired July 11^th.

 

In a statement released August 17, LOV officials thanked Sisk for her many years of service: LOV’s Board President, Donna Sisk, stated, “Shirley played a vital role in founding the organization, and contributed immeasurably to the development and success of LOV for more than 40 years. We wish to thank her for her dedicated service and tireless devotion to our Tri-Cities community. Her contributions both inside and outside of LOV have impacted countless people not only in the Tri-Cities, but beyond. We look forward to Shirley’s continued support of LOV as we carry forward her legacy helping those in need and improving the quality of life in Fremont, Newark and Union City.”

 

Fondly and aptly dubbed, “Newark’s Mom,” Shirley will be greatly missed by the staff, Board, volunteers and many others alike. Those wishing to honor her remarkable accomplishments in service to our community are invited to attend LOV’s opening Concert Series event, October 16th. at 1:00 p.m., at Newark Junior High School. The concert will begin at 2:00 p.m., following the festivities. Family, friends, co-workers and colleagues will have a chance to extend their good wishes and thanks, while they experience one of the many memorable events Shirley created and has fostered over the years.

 

Established in 1979, LOV is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that offers multiple services, programs and events that serve people in need and improve the quality of life for everyone in the Tri-Cities of Fremont, Newark and Union City.

 

 

League of Volunteers (LOV)

8440 Central Ave., Newark

(510) 793-5683

www.LOV.org

 

 

 

Most electric vehicles won't qualify for federal tax credit

By Tom Krisher

Associated Press Auto Writer

 

DETROIT (AP), Aug. 9 — A tax credit of up to $7,500 could be used to defray the cost of an electric vehicle under the Inflation Reduction Act now moving toward final approval in Congress. But the auto industry is warning that the vast majority of EV purchases won't qualify for a tax credit that large.

 

That's mainly because of the bill's requirement that, to qualify for the credit, an electric vehicle must contain a battery built in North America with minerals mined or recycled on the continent.

 

And those rules become more stringent over time — to the point where, in a few years, it's possible that no EVs would qualify for the tax credit, says John Bozzella, CEO of the Alliance of Automotive Innovation, a key industry trade group. As of now, the alliance estimates that about 50 of the 72 electric, hydrogen or plug-in hybrid models that are sold in the United States wouldn't meet the requirements.

 

“The $7,500 credit might exist on paper,” Bozzella said in a statement, “but no vehicles will qualify for this purchase over the next few years.”

 

The idea behind the requirement is to incentivize domestic manufacturing, build a robust battery supply chain in North America and lessen the industry's dependence on overseas supply chains that could be subject to disruptions.

 

Production of lithium and other minerals that are used to produce EV batteries is now dominated by China. And the world's leading producer of cobalt, another component of the EV batteries, is the Democratic Republic of Congo.

 

Though electric vehicles are part of a global effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, they require metallic elements known as rare earths, found in places like Myanmar, where an Associated Press investigation has found that the push for green energy has led to environmental destruction.

 

Under the $740 billion economic package, which passed the Senate over the weekend and is nearing approval in the House, the tax credits would take effect next year. For an EV buyer to qualify for the full credit, 40% of the metals used in a vehicle's battery must come from North America. By 2027, that required threshold would reach 80%. If the metals requirement isn't met, the automaker and its buyers would be eligible for half the tax credit, $3,750.

 

A separate rule would require that half the batteries' value must be manufactured or assembled in the North America. If not, the rest of the tax credit would be lost. Those requirements also grow stricter each year, eventually reaching 100% in 2029. Still another rule would require that the EV itself be manufactured in North America, thereby excluding from the tax credit any vehicles made overseas.

 

Automakers generally don't release where their components come from or how much they cost. But it's likely that some versions of Tesla's Model Y SUV and Model 3 car, the Chevrolet Bolt car and SUV and the Ford Mustang Mach E would be eligible for at least part of the credit. All those vehicles are assembled in North America.

 

The tax credit would be available only to couples with incomes of $300,000 or less or single people with income of $150,000 or less. And any trucks or SUVs with sticker prices above $80,000 or cars above $55,000 wouldn't be eligible. There's also a new $4,000 credit for buyers of used EVs, a provision that could help modest-income households go electric.

 

The industry says the North American battery supply chain is too small right now to meet the battery component requirements. It has proposed that the measure expand the list of countries whose battery materials would be eligible for the tax credit to nations that maintain defense agreements with the United States, including NATO members.

 

One component of the bill would require that after 2024, no vehicle would be eligible for the tax credit if its battery components came from China. Most vehicles now have some parts sourced in China, the alliance said.

 

Sen. Debbie Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat and a leading ally of Detroit automakers, complained that Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, a critical Democratic vote, had opposed any tax credits for EV purchases.

 

“I went round-and-round with Senator Manchin, who frankly didn't support any credit of any kind, so this is a compromise,” Stabenow told reporters Monday. “We'll work through it and make this as good as we can for our automakers.”

 

Manchin, long a holdout Democrat who negotiated terms of the deal with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, had blocked previous climate and social spending proposals. Manchin's office declined to comment.

 

Stabenow asserted that the bill was written by people who don't understand that manufacturers can't simply flip a switch and create a North American supply chain, though they are working on it. Numerous automakers, including General Motors, Ford, Stellantis, Toyota and Hyundai-Kia, have announced plans to build EV battery plants in the United States.

 

Stabenow said she remains hopeful that the Biden administration can offer the tax credits next year while it works on the detailed rules for the battery requirements. “We will continue to work with the automakers and the administration on getting as much common sense into the regulations as possible,” the senator said.

 

Messages were left Aug. 8 seeking comment from the White House and the Treasury Department, which would administer the credits.

 

Stabenow says she's pleased that the measure would restore tax credits for General Motors, Tesla and Toyota, all of which hit caps under a previous bill and can no longer offer them. Ford, too, she said, is closing in on an EV cap.

____

AP Writers Matthew Daly and Fatima Hussein contributed to this report from Washington.

 

 

 

Airbnb is rolling out new screening tools to stop parties

Associated Press

 

SAN FRANCISCO (AP), Aug. 16 — Airbnb says it will use new methods to spot and block people who try to use the short-term rental service to throw a party.

 

The company said on Aug. 16 it has introduced technology that examines the would-be renter's history on Airbnb, how far they live from the home they want to rent, whether they're renting for a weekday or weekend, and other factors.

 

Airbnb said the screening system that it is rolling out for listings in the United States and Canada has been tested since last October in parts of Australia, where it produced a 35% drop in unauthorized parties.

 

The San Francisco-based company said the technology is designed to prevent a customer's request for reservation from ever reaching the host of the property involved. Airbnb said people blocked from renting an entire home might be able to book a single room because the host is more likely to be around.

 

Airbnb has been under growing pressure to clamp down on parties since 2019, when a Halloween house party in a San Francisco suburb ended with five people dead in a shooting. The following year, Airbnb announced a worldwide party ban at its listings and banned people under 25 from renting an entire house near their home unless they had a record of positive reviews on the site. The party ban was initially cast as a temporary health measure during the pandemic but was made permanent in June.

 

 

 

IAD082322

 

 

CONTINUING EVENTS:

 

 

Monday – Saturday, August 20 – September 17

Oh What a Relief It Is!

During library hours

Exhibition of mixed media

Hayward Public Library

888 C St., Hayward

www.haywardartscouncil.org

 

Monday – Saturday, August 20 – October 7

Velourian Visions

During library hours

Artwork by Carrie King

Hayward Public Library

888 C St, Hayward

www.haywardartscouncil.org

 

Monday – Friday, August 15 – September 29

Summer Vibes Exhibit

9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

John O’Lague Galleria

Hayward City Hall

777 B. St., Hayward

www.artinc.org

 

Tuesday – Saturday, August 1 – 31

Clear the Shelters $

11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Find your new best friend

Tri-City Animal Shelter

1950 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

Tricityanimalshelter.org

(510) 790-6640

 

Tuesday – Saturday, August 1 – 31

Clear the Shelters $

1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Find your new best friend

Hayward Animal Shelter

16 Barnes Ct., Hayward

Haywardanimals.org

(510) 293-7200

 

 

First Thursdays

Plethos Comedy Lab $

8 p.m.

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

Castro Valley Marketplace Lab 200

3295 Castro Valley Blvd, Castro Valley

https://plethos.org/

Tickets: $10

 

Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays

Patterson House Tours $

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

Tour the beautiful Patterson House Museum

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

www.ebparks.org

(888) 327-2757

 

Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays

Animal Feeding

3:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Check for eggs and feed livestock

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

www.ebparks.org

(888) 327-2757

 

Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays

Ride the Rails

10:20 a.m. – 2:55 p.m.

Travel back in time on the train through the eucalyptus groves

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

www.ebparks.org

(888) 327-2757

 

Thursdays – Sundays, July 22 – September 17

Annual Textile Exhibit

12 noon – 5 p.m.

Artwork using colorful fabrics and thread

Olive Hyde Art Gallery

123 Washington Blvd., Fremont

www.fremont.gov

olivehyedartguild.org

 

Thursdays – Sundays, August 4 – October 2

Ferment

1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Celebrate beauty of vines, hops, and fermented drinks

Tastings from local area wineries and breweries

Bankhead Theater

2400 First St., Livermore

LivermoreArts.org

 

Fridays-Sundays, August 12-August 28

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat $

Fri 8 p.m., Sat: 2 p.m., 8 p.m., Sun: 2 p.m.

Sun, August 21: 2 p.m., 7 p.m.

Bilingual production by Stage 1 Theatre

Firehouse Art Center,

4444 Railroad Ave, Pleasanton

www.firehousearts.org

(925) 931-4848

 

Fridays

Fremont Street Eats

5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont

www.thefoodtruckmafia.com

 

First Fridays at Chabot Space $

6 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Hands-on activities, workshops, and performances

Chabot Space and Science Center

10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland

https://chabotspace.org/

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

 

Fridays – Saturdays, August 26 – October 15

Children’s Book Illustrator Show

11 a.m. – 4 pm.

Reception Sat., Sept. 10, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Prestigious show back for 32nd year

Sun Gallery

1015 E St., Hayward

www.sungallery.org

(510) 581-4050

 

Third Saturdays

Investigating Space $

11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Discuss topics in exploring space with researchers and scientists

(Included with admission)

Chabot Space and Science Center

10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland

https://chabotspace.org/

 

Saturdays

Laugh Track City

8 p.m.

Improvised games and scenes based on audience suggestions

Please show proof of vaccination

Made Up Theatre

4000 Bay St., Ste B, Fremont

(510) 573-3633

madeuptheatre.com

Tickets: $15

 

Saturdays, July 2 – August 27

Bubbleworks

2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

4 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Upbeat pop music and bubble machines

Courtyard near Old Navy

39281 Fremont Hub

 

Saturdays – Sundays

Discovery on Demand

10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Hands-on activities, live animal feeding, learn about habitats

Coyote Hills Visitors Center

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturdays – Sundays

Nectar Garden Exploration

11 a.m. – 12 noon

Discover native pollinators and plants

Coyote Hills Visitors Center

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

www.ebparks.org

 

 

UPCOMING

 

Tuesday, August 23

“Start Smart” Teen Driver Program R

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Driver/parent responsibilities, seatbelt usage

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

www.aclibrary.org

 

Wednesday, August 24

Davis Street Golden Gala $R

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Canyon View Event Center

680 Bollinger Canyon Way, San Ramon

(510) 347-4620

davisstreet.org

 

Wednesday, August 24

Homework Center Volunteer Orientation

4 p.m.

High school students needed to help students

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

www.aclibrary.org

 

Saturday, August 27

Saturday Story Time

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Children’s picture book story. Ages 2-5

Banter Bookshop

3768 Capitol Ave., Ste. F, Fremont

(510) 565-1004

Banterbookshop.com/events

 

Saturday, August 27

Bingo Night $

6:30 p.m.

Doors open at 4:30 p.m.

Fundraiser for non-profit “The Goodie Bag Lady”. Ages 21+

Carpenters Hall

1050 Mattox Rd., Hayward

Goodiebaglady2017@gmail.com

 

Saturday, August 27

SPOT Skin Cancer Screening R

10 a.m. – 12 noon

Skin cancer is highly treatable when caught early

Nakamura Clinic

33077 Alvarado Niles Rd., Union City

(510) 818-7009

 

Saturday, August 27

Campfire Program $

8 p.m. – 9 pm.

Songs, games, stories, activities. Ages 5+

Dumbarton Quarry Campground

9400 Quarry Rd., Fremont

(510)-544-3220

Parking fee

 

Saturday, August 27

Fun with Felting

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Make a felt toy to take home

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

www.ebparks.org

(888) 327-2757

 

Saturday, August 27

Fixin’ Feed

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Shell and grind feed for the sheep, goats, and chickens

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

www.ebparks.org

(888) 327-2757

 

Saturday, August 27

Storefront Storytime

11 a.m.

Oakland Zoo docent reads fun and furry tales (tails?)

Books on B

1014 B St., Hayward

(510) 538-3943

 

Saturday, August 27

Animal Adaptations $

2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Learn how animals find food and avoid predators

Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

www.ebparks.org

Parking $5

 

Saturday, August 27

Castro Valley Cruise Night

6 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Castro Valley Boulevard between Stanton and Forest avenues

See classic and exotic cars and support local merchants

(510) 331-9112

Free

 

Saturday, August 27

United 4 Safety BBQ & Badges

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Community barbecue with police

San Leandro Police Department

901 E. 14th St., San Leandro

crimeprevention@sanleandro.org

(510) 577-3228

Free

 

Saturday, August 27

Hot Pawgust Nights

11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Free adoptions, live music, classic cars

Hayward Animal Shelter

16 Barnes Ct., Hayward

www.haywardanimals.org

 

Saturday, August 27

Paranormal at McConaghy House $

7 p.m. – 1 a.m.

What will you encounter?

18701 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward

(510) 581-0223

 

Sunday, August 28

Sevathon 2022

7 a.m.

Run half marathon, 10K, 5K, yogathon

Vasona Park

333 Blossom Hill Rd., Los Gatos

www.indiacc.org

 

Sunday, August 28

Opera in the Vineyard $

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Gate opens at 5 p.m.

Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy classic opera

Retzlaff Vineyards

1356 S. Livermore Ave., Livermore

www.LVOpera.com

 

Sunday, August 28

Niles Antique Faire and Flea Market

6 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Antiques, jewelry, food

Downtown Niles

www.niles.org/2022-events

 

Sunday, August 28

Snake Talk $

2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Learn role snakes play in the ecosystem

Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

www.ebparks.org

Parking $5

 

Sunday, August 28

Nature Stories – Animal Tails $

1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Listen to a story and enjoy an activity

Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

www.ebparks.org

Parking $5

 

Sunday, August 28

Wake Up the Farm

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Prepare a morning snack for the farm animals

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

www.ebparks.org

(888) 327-2757

 

Sunday, August 28

Birds of the Farm

8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Valuable habitat for migratory birds

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

www.ebparks.org

(888) 327-2757

 

Sunday, August 28

Homes for Bees

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Learn ways to help bees survive

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

www.ebparks.org

(888) 327-2757

 

Sunday, August 28

Victorian Fun & Games

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Play games from days gone by

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

www.ebparks.org

(888) 327-2757

 

Sunday, August 28

Town Hall Meeting

3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Congressman Ro Khanna provides updates

Sunnyvale Community Center Ballroom

50 E. Remington Dr., Sunnyvale

 

Monday, August 29

Sing with Bella Concert for Kids

3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Hear nursery rhymes, kids’ songs

www.facebook.com/musicforminors2

 

Monday, August 29

Advanced Math and Science Tutoring

5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

High school and college-level

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 745-1401

nsilva@aclibrary.org

 

Tuesday, August 30

Rotator Cuff Repair: Advances in Treatment Options

11 a.m.

What is rotator cuff and how does it tear?

YouTube.com/whhsInHealth

 

 

 

Summer Outdoor Movie Nights & Concerts

 

Movies Under the Stars

Encanto

Friday, September 30

Bring blankets, low beach chairs, and a picnic dinner

Palms Pavilion Picnic Area

40204 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont

(510) 494-4300

https://bit.ly.MovieNights2022

 

 

Free Outdoor Movies

8 pm.

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

 

Friday, September 10

Addams Family 2

Meek Estate Park

240 Hampton Rd., Hayward

 

HaywardRec.org

 

 

Pacific Commons Summer Concert Series

7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

 

August 26 – TinMan (classic rock)

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

 

Pacific Commons Shopping Center

Auto Mall Parkway at I-880, Fremont

(510) 770-9798

 

 

3 O’Clock Jump

Third Saturdays: September 17, October 15

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Big Band music in outdoor patio (no cover fee)

World Famous Turf Club

22519, Main St., Hayward

(510) 244-3449

www.worldfamousturfclubca.com

 

 

Hayward Oddfellows Summer Concerts

1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

 

August 28 – Joe Kady, Dee Smith & Friends, and Kari & the SweetSp0ts

September 11 – The La Honda All Stars

September 18 – Giant Garage Spiders, Chris Marquis, and Sycamore 129 Blues Band

September 25 – East Bay Youth Orchestra, East Bay Symphonic Band, and Flute Choir

 

Hayward Memorial Park Outdoor Amphitheater

24176 Mission Blvd., Hayward

www.haywardlodge.org

 

 

Summertime Sounds Music Series at Union Landing

 

August 27 – Charlie Barreda and Friends (Latin Jazz mix of Mambo, Cha Cha, Bolero Bossa Nova and Samba)

September 3 – Tropic XX (Steel Drum music from Jamaica, Trinidad, Granada, Haiti, and St. Croix)

September 10 – Hipster Cocktail Party (Funk and Rhythm &Blues)

September 17 – The Donna Spitzer Trio (Jazz, Blues, Jump, Big Babd, and Swing)

September 24 – Charlie Barreda and Friends (Motown, Rhythm a& Blues and Salsa)

 

32115 Union Landing Blvd, Union City