Local 9/11 Memorial
By Jack Alcorn
Photos courtesy of Union City
Along the eastern bank of Alameda Creek in Union City, rests a small tranquil park shaded by ancient eucalyptus and conifers. Sugar Mill Landing Park is the home of Union City’s Flight 93 Memorial. This unique landmark at the corner of Alvarado-Niles Road and Dyer Street commemorates the local impact of the tragic events of 9/11.
On Tuesday September 11, 2001, terrorists hijacked four commercial airline jets over U.S soil. The four planes were seized in flight by well-prepared small teams of assassins. The jets were used as bombs to attack the United States. Strategic points of national security were targeted for destruction and maximum morbidity.
Two of the planes hit both of the New York World Trade Center’s Twin Towers. A third plane crashed into the Pentagon. The fourth plane, United Airlines Flight 93, was aimed at the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington D.C. A valiant uprising from passengers aboard Flight 93 averted destruction of Capitol Hill, but the plane crashed in a Pennsylvania field.
The historic 110-storey Twin Towers burst into flames when two speeding jets slammed into their targets. The explosions trapped workers and visitors on the upper floors of buildings. Others were trapped on floors below the impacts by inoperative elevators and darkness. Two hours later, both landmark structures collapsed completely, killing thousands of people. New York City was smothered by a massive cloud of toxic smoke and dust.
The western face of Virginia’s iconic Pentagon, headquarters of the U.S. military, was destroyed by the third plane’s attack. 125 Americans died there, serving their country that day.
The fourth plane, Flight 93, was originally bound for San Francisco International Airport when it was hijacked 40 minutes after departing Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. Passengers on board the flight learned of the devastating events in New York and Washington from phone calls and text messages. Understanding that the flight’s destination was no longer the west coast, a group of passengers and flight attendants carried out a plan to retake control of the aircraft.
The passengers of Flight 93 fought the four hijackers and attempted to secure the cockpit. Despite the heroic efforts of these passengers, the plane crashed in a rural field near Shanksville in western Pennsylvania killing all 40 passengers and crew members.
Most of the passengers and crew members on board Flight 93 lived, worked or grew up in the Bay Area. The pilot, Jason Dahl, was born and raised in San Jose and graduated from San Jose State University.
After 9/11, former Marine Michael L. Emerson of Hayward felt that the nation had mostly forgotten about the passengers and crew of United Airlines Flight 93. So he decided to do something about it. Emerson began what would become an extensive effort to create the Flight 93 Memorial.
Emerson’s efforts led him to city officials in Union City who were receptive and enthusiastic. They helped him obtain the site for the memorial in Sugar Mill Landing Park. More than 50 corporate sponsors and private donors funded the $500,000 construction of the park.
The Flight 93 Memorial was completed and dedicated on December 8, 2007. Union City was the first city in the United States to create a memorial specifically for the heroes of Flight 93. The memorial is a tribute to the courage and bravery of the 33 passengers and seven crew members of Flight 93, who fought back against terrorist hijackers.
The primary feature of the memorial is a trail of 40 stones, six feet tall. The granite stones are engraved with the names, ages and hometowns of the victims. The trail is lined with a rose garden that pays homage to the resolution and sacrifice of the deceased honored there. One side of the 40 stones has a polished stainless-steel mirror to reflect the viewer’s own image, signifying that it could have been you aboard Flight 93. The unfinished stonework on other side of the 40 stones signifies the unfinished lives of the victims.
A Circle of Remembrance in the park contains three large granite pillars that tell the tragic story of 9/11 and the plight of Flight 93. The traumatic events of that day left a permanent scar on our national memory. More than 3,000 people lost their lives to terrorism on September 11, 2001.
The park’s Circle of Hope has a flagpole surrounded at its base by hundreds of tiles hand painted by local school children, a grassy area and playground equipment. The flagpole honors the fearless action of the Flight 93 passengers that remains a testament to American strength and resilience.
The Flight 93 memorial at Union City’s Sugar Mill Landing Park offers a calm retreat to remember the events of 9/11 or to share this important history with your children and grandchildren.
Sugar Mill Landing Park
30700 Carr Way, Union City
HERS Annual Walk/Run/Yoga Fundraiser & Community Expo
Submitted by HERS Breast Cancer Foundation Executive Director Tina Fernandez Steckler
HERS Breast Cancer Foundation is hard at work preparing for its fall Walk/Run/Yoga Fundraiser & Community Expo. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, September 30, at Quarry Lakes Regional Park in Fremont, and is the nonprofit’s traditional kick-off to Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October.
Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit HERS assistance programs, which ensure that breast cancer patients in need receive post-surgical products and services that help them heal physically and emotionally.
Registration is online only!
Walkers, runners, and yoga practitioners are invited to register online now and join HERS for an inspiring and impactful morning. Registration options include a 5k walk, timed 5k or 10k run, and outdoor yoga. A virtual walk or run option is also available this year. Register at https://tinyurl.com/HERSWALKRUN2023.
Walkers and runners will receive a bib, commemorative t-shirt, finishers medal, and lunch. Parking is $5 per car; attendees are encouraged to carpool. The walk/run course will encircle Quarry Lakes, with the 10k run option extended to encompass Lago Los Osos. For course details, including surface and turn information, visit https://hersbreastcancerfoundation.org/walk-run/.
Community Expo, Opening Ceremonies, and Special Guest Heather Holmes
Pre-registered participant check-in and same-day registration begins at 7:30 a.m. at the park’s South Ensenada; once checked in, attendees may visit the Community Expo in the field between the North and South Ensenadas. Exhibitor booths representing sponsors, local businesses, and nonprofits will offer giveaways and information, and coffee and donuts will be available at the HERS Breakfast Bar.
KTVU Fox 2 & KTVU Plus Anchor Heather Holmes will welcome participants at 8 a.m., followed by a moment of quiet reflection known as Elaine’s Memorial Circle. This deeply meaningful gathering is an opportunity for breast cancer patients and survivors to be honored in a loving space with friends and family standing behind them in solidarity.
“There’s No Place Like Hope”
Throughout the morning, participants are encouraged to visit (and take selfies!) at this year’s Wizard of Oz-themed Footprints Booth, which is created and sponsored by members of the Buentello and Gilligan families. Their 2023 theme is based on the idea that, for patients, survivors and their families, “there is no place like hope.”
Kids’ entertainment will include free face painting and registered participants will enjoy, thanks to sponsor Dutra Enterprises, a barbecue lunch which includes a vegetarian option. Attendees are also encouraged to stop by the HERS info booth and enter a free drawing for the chance to win prizes such gift cards, museum tickets, and more. To maximize fun this year, HERS is encouraging registrants to create fundraising teams incorporating themes and costumes. First, second, and third place certificates will be presented to the winning teams.
Yoga or Bust!
For those who prefer an alternative to walking, Fremont-based fitness and yoga instructor Sherri Plaza, founder of Keep Moving with Sherri, will lead a fun and light-hearted gentle yoga class for all ages and abilities. Join Sherri and move together, breathe together, find balance together, and have fun together! Yoga registrants should bring their own mats.
BYOB – Bring Your Own Water Bottle
To save resources, attendees are strongly encouraged to BYOW – Bring Your Own Water – and refill their bottles at on-site water stations.
HERS will post photos throughout the morning to social media and encourages participants to do the same using hashtags #HERSWalkRunYoga23 #HERSBreastCancerFoundation #nonprofit #fundraiser #breastcancerawareness #breastcancersupport #5k #breastcancer #nonprofitorganization.
For full details and to register, visit https://tinyurl.com/HERSWALKRUN2023; for community members interested in volunteering, visit https://tinyurl.com/HERSWALKVOLUNTEERS.
If you are unable to attend, but still want to support HERS patients, please donate at https://tinyurl.com/HERSPayPal.
HERS 24th Annual Walk/Run/Yoga Fundraiser & Community Expo
Saturday, Sep 30
7:30 a.m. check-in begins
Quarry Lakes Regional Park
2100 Isherwood Way, Fremont
(510) 790-1911
https://tinyurl.com/HERSWALKRUN2023
Newark ROCKS!
Submitted by David Fink
Since 1955, the incorporation of the City of Newark has been celebrated with a parade and a festival. The one-day celebrations were attended by locals and enjoyed by all, but were rather quaint. That all began to change in 1972 when a group of citizens, including one Shirley Sisk and her husband, banded together and formed Newark Days Celebration Inc., a non-profit organization run 100% by volunteers that has grown the modest festival into a spectacular four-day celebration of culture, diversity, and inclusion.
Today, carnival rides thrill people of all ages, and provide a centerpiece of lights and sounds that immerse visitors in the excitement. Twenty-nine food booths fill the air with the aroma of fresh treats from traditional fair favorites to culinary delights from all corners of the world. A Classic Car and Truck show featuring over 150 beautifully restored vehicles takes place Saturday; there are games and activities for kids; the “Newark Mile” 4K along with the “Newark Mile 4Kids” takes place Saturday; the Boutique Arts Crafts and Trade Show delights shoppers Saturday and Sunday; and Power-House Bands will rock the two stages of Newark Days with music for all ages. Did I mention a parade? More news later.
This year’s celebration from September 14 to 17 has particular significance, as for the first time in decades we welcome a new President of Newark Days Celebration Inc. Laurie Gratz assumes the role of President, following in the footsteps of the legendary Shirley Sisk, who now assumes the role of President Emeritus. “In my opinion, Shirley IS Newark Days and it has taken many people to cover all that she does for Newark Days every year. Newark Days to me, is an event that people come together and celebrate the city, friendships, and family! It is an honor to take on the role as the next President,” says Gratz.
As another senior member of the Newark Days Celebration Committee put it, “Without Shirley, there simply would not be a Newark Days, the only reason we will carry on as she steps to an emeritus roll is because she put together such a great team and because she has provided so much guidance to us all.”
And in other celebration news, there is indeed the 68th Annual Newark Days Hometown Parade on Saturday morning. Over 100 entries and well over 1,500 people will participate in this year’s parade. Marching bands, floats, and over 30 horses highlight this year’s parade. The parade draws thousands along the 1.7-mile route and is beloved by all who watch it.
Road Closures
On Saturday, September16, the Newark Days Hometown Parade will take place beginning at Thornton Avenue and Newark Boulevard. The parade proceeds north on Newark Boulevard to Cedar Boulevard, turns on to Cedar and proceeds South/East to Lake Boulevard.
The following streets will begin closing at approximately 6 a.m. and will remain closed until the completion of the parade, approximately 1 p.m.:
Thornton Ave. from Cedar Blvd. to Cherry St.
Newark Blvd. from Civic Terrace to Cedar Blvd.
Cedar Blvd. from Edgewater Dr. to Newark Blvd.
East – West travel in Newark during the road closures is available on Central Ave. and via Edgewater Dr. to Lake Blvd. to Jarvis Ave.
New for 2023
We would be remiss if we did not mention some of the new attractions making their Newark Days debut.
- Battle of the Bands, a competition of local youth “Garage Bands,” takes place Friday Night in 3 age groups: 13 and under, 14-16 and 17-20.
- Newark Idol, a singing competition for youth, takes place on Saturday with Elementary, Middle School, and High School divisions.
- BMX Peddle-less Balance Bike Races take place Saturday and Sunday. Kids will get to enjoy the thrill of racing on a BMX style course just their size.
- At Rock and Roll Limbo on Friday evening where kids get to compete for prizes as they do the Limbo.
The Newark Days Celebration Committee is excited to share with our neighbors in Newark, the Tri-City area, and from everywhere, our version of what a town that ROCKS looks like. We hope that everyone will join us, and, in the immortal words of David Essex, “ROCK ON.”
More information along with a schedule and map is available in the special Newark Days “Tabloid” inserted in the September 12 edition of the Tri-City Voice and on the Newark Days website, www.newarkdays.org, or by scanning the QR code.
Newark Days: Newark ROCKS
Thursday, Sept 14 – Sunday, Sept 17
Thurs – Fri: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Sat: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Sun: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Along Cedar Blvd., Newark
Alameda County Library Announces Winners of 2023 Youth Poet Laureate Competition
Submitted by Alicia Reyes, Communications Manager, Alameda County Library
Alameda County Library has announced the winners of the 2023 Alameda County Youth Poet Laureate competition. Now in its third year, the annual competition, open to Alameda County teens ages 13-18, takes place during National Poetry Month in April. The winners of the 2023 competition are Brian Guan of Dublin and Sunwoo Eom of Albany.
Guan, the 2023 Youth Poet Laureate, is a poet and editor-in-chief of The Dungeness Press, a Bay Area teen literary magazine. Guan’s poetry explores the connection and humanity of art, advocacy, and education.
Eom, 2023 Youth Poet Vice-Laureate, is the editor-in-chief of Albany High School’s campus magazine, a poet, and founder of a student-centered global citizenry nonprofit. Eom’s poetry explores the historical relationship between trauma, memory, and personal narrative.
This year’s finalists include: Rose America Garcia of San Leandro, Vyahruti Gudoor of Fremont, Lia Le-Nguyen of Fremont, Anika Yu of Dublin.
Alameda County Library received a record-breaking number of submissions this year—52—more than double the amount of last year. Winners were selected by a panel of judges from the Bay Area spoken word and restorative justice communities, and were judged based on the content, craft, and voice of their work. The names of winners were announced at a community event held at the Cherryland Community Center on August 25.
“The competition celebrates teen voices from all over the county,” said Nate Miley, Alameda County Board of Supervisors President. “When teens express themselves creatively and authentically through poetry, they inspire our next generation of leaders to amplify their voices and make a difference in their communities.”
“When I served as a judge during the Inaugural Year of the Alameda County Youth Poet Laureate competition, I learned just how talented youth poets are. I congratulate the winners, finalists, and all applicants for their participation in this year’s competition,” said County Librarian Cindy Chadwick.
From now through August 2024, Guan and Eom will serve as ambassadors to inspire civic engagement, social justice, cultural awareness, and literary excellence among young people in Alameda County. As this year’s Laureate, Guan will receive a MacBook, and a suite of Apple products, Guan’s poetry will be featured in the National Poetry Anthology along with Laureates across the country. Eom will receive an iPad and a suite of Apple products.
“Poetry is a medium of humanity. It is emotion distilled into words and line breaks. It just has to be honest. Poetry is empathetic. Poetry is the spark before change. In this way, we become the catalyst,” said Guan.
“Poetry inspires me to re-evaluate my assumptions and understandings of both language and the world it encapsulates. Poetry offers a space for me to voice up and be vulnerable, and I aim to share untold stories of my community through it,” said Eom.
Winners and finalists will be invited to perform at public events throughout the year. Winners are eligible to compete in the Regional and State of California Youth Poet Laureate competitions. Previous winners have gone on to compete and become finalists. Zoe Dorado, the Inaugural Alameda County Youth Poet Laureate from Castro Valley, placed runner-up in March. Yamini Jain, the 2022 Co-Youth Poet Laureate from Fremont, also placed as a finalist this year.
Dorado returned to the countywide competition, this time as a judge. She reflects on her experience as the first Laureate and as part of this year’s selection committee. “I learned the importance of accessibility, both in giving youth access to literary arts education, and using accessible language in my poetry so the people I write for can understand and connect with it,” said Dorado. “As one of this year’s judges, I was incredibly inspired by every applicant’s skill with the pen and passion for community organizing and activism. I look forward to seeing what the next laureate and laureate team bring to Alameda County and beyond.”
Alameda County Library thanks this year’s judges, Urban Word, and Alameda County Library Foundation for their partnership and support. For more information about the competition, visit aclibrary.org/youth-poet/.
Art of the Mission Church
Submitted by Olive Hyde Art Guild
Olive Hyde Art Guild (OHAG) will have a tour and explanation of the art in the Mission San Jose Church. Even though the church looks like it was built in the late 1700s, it is less than 50 years old. At that time, the rectory was moved south on Mission Boulevard to Anza so the church could be reconstructed on its original site.
The tour will answer several questions. What on the inside is from the original church? How was it made to look original? How was the church built originally, and what was saved or recreated in the new one?
Some art is very old, and some is not. All is of artistic interest. Jurek Zarzycki, an OHAG member and also a Mission docent, will interpret and educate us as we tour through the church.
Art of the Mission Church
Thursday, Sep 21
2 p.m.
Mission San Jose
43326 Mission Cir., Fremont
(Enter through the museum)
Entrance Fee: $10 suggested donation
RSVP to reserve your spot!
https://olivehydeartguild.org/news-events/upcoming-programs/
Two VTA mechanics injured after heroic attempt to extinguish bus fire
Submitted by Valley Transit Authority
Two VTA mechanics suffered smoke inhalation Friday, September 1, 2023, after heroically trying to extinguish a fire the ignited on a battery electric bus. The bus was at VTA’s Cerone maintenance yard for repairs at the time, and there were no passengers on board.
After initial failed attempts to put the fire out, the two mechanics pushed the bus out of the maintenance bay to avoid further damage to the building. Nearby employees were evacuated, and emergency responders arrived moments later and extinguished the flames. The two mechanics were taken to a local hospital for treatment.
The bus that caught fire was one of VTA’s fleet of 10 battery electric Proterra buses, all of which have now been taken out of service pending an investigation of the fire. Employees returned to their normal workstations after the fire was extinguished. The bus that caught fire was damaged beyond repair.
VTA’s Cerone Bus Yard is on Zanker Road near SR 237, and houses more than 400 VTA employees including bus operators, mechanics, dispatchers and other administrative staff.
Castro Valley holds Fall Fest
Submitted by Eden Area Chamber of Commerce
Photos courtesy of Cathy Breslow Imaging
The weekend of September 9 and 10, Castro Valley will hold its 51st annual “Fall Fest,” traditionally held the weekend after Labor Day on Castro Valley Boulevard between Redwood Road and Santa Maria Avenue. The road will close to vehicle traffic on Friday at 9 p.m. and reopen on Sunday at 11:59 p.m. The festival will include arts and crafts vendors, food stalls, kids’ play zone, live music, and community booths.
The event is accessible via BART, from the Castro Valley Station on the Dublin/Pleasanton line.
Castro Valley Fall Fest
Saturday, Sept 9 – Sunday, Sept 10
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Castro Valley Boulevard
Between Redwood Rd. and Santa Maria Ave.
www.edenareachamber.com/fall-fest-2023/
Correction
In the August 29 issue of Tri-City Voice, in the Celebrate Scottish Heritage, Tradition and Culture article, was an error in the name of the photo sources. The correct name is Mark E. Robertson.
We apologize for the error.
Appreciate local dahlia blooms
By Staff
In fall, dahlias are in bloom, and San Leandro’s long-running Dahlia Society is having a free show at the San Leandro Library to showcase the color and variety of these flowers. The show will take place on Saturday and Sunday, September 9 – 10.
The San Leandro Dahlia Society has been active since 1934, later combining with the Oakland Dahlia Society, and currently has around 50 members who grow dahlias in their yards, or in community gardens. The club has maintained a dahlia garden at Casa Peralta for decades, and members also grow dahlias in the public gardens at Oakland’s Lake Merritt. Some members hail from as far as Walnut Creek, Tracy and Sacramento. However, the climate of San Leandro is ideal for these flowers, which prefer mild coastal areas to hotter climes.
Dahlias originate in the highlands of Mexico. Though the first dahlias looked like open-center daisies, the plant is amenable to hybridization, and now there are over 11,000 cultivars. Blooms can be as small as a half inch, and as wide as 18 inches. “I think that’s what attracts people to them so much, that they’re so unique but they’re all the same flower family,” says Kristi Whitfield, Vice President of San Leandro Dahlia Society.
At the show, cut flowers will be arranged for judging, so it will be the perfect opportunity to admire the variety of dahlias. If you’re inspired to plant your own dahlias in the spring, you can sign up for the Dahlia Society newsletter or join some of their monthly meetings to learn how to plant and care for your own tubers.
“We want people to enjoy the flowers, and we want to encourage people to grow the flowers,” says Whitfield. “This is where people get interested in them. They see them and they’re like, ‘Oh my gosh I had no idea. I want to start growing these.’”
Dahlia Show
Saturday, Sep 9 – Sunday, Sep 10
Sat: 11:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Sun: 9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
San Leandro Main Library
300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro
(510) 577-3971
Monthly Meetings
Third Tuesdays
7 p.m.
Church of Christ
601 MacArthur Blvd, San Leandro
Slds.club
www.sanleandrodahliasociety.org
Together for Hayward Gift Card are back
Submitted by City of Hayward
After a successful first year, the Together for Hayward e-Gift Card Program bonus dollar promotion is back for end of summer and the back-to-school season while supplies last.
Under the promotional program that began August 11, purchase a Together for Hayward e-Gift Card to use at any of 122 participating businesses in Hayward, and the City of Hayward will give you a bonus card to use or share with a friend.
Purchase a $50 card and receive a $25 bonus card, purchase a $75 card and receive a $40 bonus card or purchase a $100 card and receive a $100 bonus card. Bonus cards are limited to three per customer, and must be used within 90 days of purchase.
All-digital and always available on your phone, the Together for Hayward e-Gift Card is great for birthdays, holidays, teacher appreciation, gifts or just to treat a friend. The program supports Hayward’s small business community and creates an opportunity to discover the City’s great and unique shops, merchants and restaurants.
The Together for Hayward e-Gift Card promotion is part of the City’s award-winning economic recovery plan to help brick-and-mortar retailers and restaurants recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
For more information, go to the City of Hayward website and search Together for Hayward – eGift Card Program.
Million Father March
Submitted by City of Hayward
On Friday, September 15, Hayward Unified School District will select a school to host the thirteenth annual Million Fathers March. We invite all fathers and father figures in Hayward to drive or walk their children to school on this special day.
This year’s theme will be, “Celebrating Fatherhood and The Positive Influence of Father Engagement in Education.”
Since the march began over 10 years ago, more than 1 million men, women, and children have participated nationwide. This year more than one million men in 600 cities are expected to participate in the nationwide event, and Hayward is proud to be a host city where the march will take place across all of our schools.
Million Father March
Friday, Sep 15
Flash Fiction – ‘The Day I Fell in Love’ – Call for Writers
Submitted by Arathi Satish
Fremont Cultural Arts Council (FCAC) and Half-Price Books will co-sponsor the 2023 Flash Fiction Contest, “The Day I Fell in Love,” on Saturday, October 7, once again hosted at Half-Price Books, Fremont Hub.
This contest is open to contestants of any age and residency. Entries must be 300 words or less including the title. Stories without a title will be given a generic title. Writers can submit up to three entries, but cannot submit fiction that contains plagiarism (including AI) or would be offensive to the general reader. FCAC reserves the right to return entries that do not meet the criteria. Over $150 in cash and gift card prizes will be awarded to those who win.
Each entry submitted must be in 12-point or larger legible font, which will fit on a single printed 8½ x 11” sheet. To submit by post, mail your entries to: FCAC Flash Fiction Contest, c/o Fremont Cultural Arts Council, P.O. Box 1314, Fremont, CA 94538. The author’s name and contact information must be included on the back of the submission or on a separate sheet of paper. To submit by email, send your entry as a Word- or PDF-compatible attachment to fcacwriters@gmail.com. Include the author’s name and contact information in the body of the email message.
Submissions will not be accepted at Half-Price Books and must be received by email or postmarked by midnight, Monday, October 2. The contest is on Saturday, October 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with prizes awarded at 5:30 p.m. at Half-Price Books in the Fremont Hub. For more information, visit the FCAC website at Fremontculturalartscouncil.org.
Flash Fiction – The Day I fell in love
SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Monday, Oct 2
Judging: Saturday, Oct 7
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Half-Price Books
39152 Fremont Hub
Fremontculturalartscouncil.org
Apple Fest at Garin Park
Submitted by East Bay Regional Parks
An Orchard-inary adventure awaits at the annual “Garin Apple Festival” on Saturday, September 9. Take a bite out of local history as you explore the historic apple orchard and celebrate the beauty of nature. Try your hand at making ice cream, enjoy live music, create nature crafts, and join Bob the Blacksmith for a live demonstration. The event is suitable for all ages; parent participation is required.
This is a drop-in event; no registration is needed. Parking is $5 per vehicle. For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/calendar.
Garin Apple Festival
Saturday, Sep 9
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Garin Avenue Staging Area and Visitor Center
1320 Garin Ave., Hayward
(510) 544-3220
Parking: $5
Women’s a cappella ensemble seeks singers
Submitted by Heidi Massie
Harmony Fusion, a women’s a cappella vocal ensemble, will host a special open rehearsal guest night to welcome new singers.
Harmony Fusion, a chapter of Sweet Adelines International (SAI), is open to female singers as young as high school age. The group generally meets Monday nights from 7 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. in Hayward. Guests are always welcome, but September 18 is set aside as a special open rehearsal.
“We’re looking for women who love to sing and are interested in performing, competing, and improving their vocal skills,” says 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. We welcome 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! The ability to read music is not required!”
At this special 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 our singing style will have the opportunity to attend future rehearsals and learn one full arrangement to perform at our show on December 16, 2023.
Director Barbara Vander Putten, a SAI Certified Director and member of the SAI Region 12 coaching faculty, has directed Harmony Fusion since April of 2007. Under her direction, the ensemble has medaled several times at the annual Sweet Adelines International regional contest, and she regularly attends regional educational conferences with the chorus twice a year.
“Music education in Barbershop singing is the mission of Sweet Adelines, but the organization also provides opportunities to sing in other styles,” says Vander Putten. “In addition to the joy of singing in our sisterhood, members learn proper vocal technique for ensemble singing during rehearsals and coaching, and perform at events throughout the East Bay. Membership includes access to weekend workshops in vocal techniques, singing in a quartet, learning to direct, and multiple aspects of performing.”
Harmony Fusion has also been recognized for its high member retention rate as a four-time winner of the SAI Region 12 BRAVO award. “We are extremely proud of the award,” says Joanne Morrison, Board President. “We are the first and only group to receive the award four times! We believe our welcoming and supportive culture, and of course, our fabulous director Barb, inspire our members to show up consistently and share their love of singing. Our members live throughout the East Bay in and around Hayward, Castro Valley, Alameda, Oakland and Berkeley, the Tri-Valley areas of Livermore, Pleasanton and Danville, and the San Francisco Peninsula.”
For more information about the open rehearsal night, contact Sharon Reyes at (510) 397-1920. General information is available on Facebook at @harmonyfusionchorus or at www.harmonyfusion.org.
Harmony Fusion Open Rehearsal Night
Monday, Sep 18
7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Hill and Valley Women’s Club
1808 B St., Hayward
(510) 397-1920
Hayward Executive Airport Annual Open House
Submitted by Hayward Chamber of Commerce
Photo by Rob Klindt
The Hayward Executive Airport will hold its annual Open House on Sunday, September 24. Families and aviation lovers are invited to this free event, which will feature a variety of entertainment for people of all ages.
The Open House will include stationary aircraft displays, police and fire vehicles and equipment, and classic cars. Local restaurants and vendors also will be onsite selling food and drinks. Local flight schools will be conducting introductory flights.
The airport assumed hosting duties for the annual Open House in 2012, with assistance from aircraft owners and other stakeholders. The popularity of the event quickly grew, with thousands of local community members from Hayward, the greater the Bay Area and beyond attending year after year.
A former World War II fighter base, Hayward Executive is a vibrant general aviation airport that spans 534 acres. Over 350 aircraft are based at the airport, from single-engine airplanes to sophisticated corporate jets, and aviation products and services are provided by 21 support companies.
To learn more, go to https://haywardairportopenhouse.com
Hayward Airport Open House
Sunday, Sep 24
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Hayward Executive Airport
20511 Skywest Dr., Hayward
Accessible parking 20301 Skywest Dr., Hayward
https://haywardairportopenhouse.com
Free admission and parking
Ashwin Vaidyanathan brings home medals in History Olympiad
Submitted by David Madden, Executive Director of International Academic Competitions
The 5th International History Olympiad took place in Rome, Italy from July 23-30, 2023 with 258 students in attendance, representing 30 U.S. states, 20 other countries, and four territories. This was the largest Olympiad ever in terms of attending students, and it was the first since 2018 to be held in Europe. St. Stephen’s School was the host site for most of the competitions, though several finals were held in historic venues throughout the area, including inside the Colosseum (Roman History Bee), at St. Peter’s Square (Catholic History Bee), and in the Circus Maximus (Sports History Bee and Running Combined).
California led the Medals Table with 37.33 medals and 11.33 gold (fractional medals reflect team events where one student of a team of two or three represented a particular country or state). Canada finished second on both accounts, with 31 medals, including seven gold. Taylor Chen, an Elementary Division student from Tennessee led the Individual Medals Table with 10 medals, including six gold. Of the 258 competing students, 110 won a medal in an individual event, and nine additional students won a medal as part of a team event.
California’s Ashwin Vaidyanathan, a student at Mission San Jose High School in Fremont, contributed to the Golden State’s medals haul with a Gold Medal in the Recent History Bee. Olympiad Founder and Executive Director, David Madden, added, “In his first International History Olympiad, Ashwin had a fantastic debut. Ashwin was one of only 15 Junior Varsity Division students out of 73 who competed to win a gold medal in an individual event. Combined with a semifinal finish in the International History Bee World Championships, Ashwin should be extremely proud of his accomplishments in Rome.”
Aside from the 27 medal events and four separate trophy events, students had a chance to sightsee around Rome. As well as an opening parade from the Colosseum to and around the Circus Maximus, students also visited the Roman Forum, St. Peter’s Basilica (where one lucky group even saw Pope Francis’s weekly blessing), Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, Ostia Antica, UN Food and Agriculture Organization Headquarters, the Baths of Caracalla, and several walking tours that took in sites such as the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and Trajan’s Column. Approximately half of the students, and many of their parents and siblings, took part in the optional concluding day trip to Pompeii and the National Archaeological Museum in Naples on July 31.
The next International History Olympiad will be held in 2025, most likely in either London or Vienna. Students interested in competing in the International History Olympiad should visit www.iacompetitions.com (in the USA) to learn more about upcoming History Bee and Bowl tournaments around the world.
City of Fremont Developing New Homelessness Response Plan
Submitted by City of Fremont
The City of Fremont is in the process of creating a new Homelessness Response Plan to engage the community and help guide a comprehensive response to homelessness in Fremont.
The plan will include:
- long-term best practices to reduce homelessness
- a framework to address the impacts of homelessness on the community
- a roadmap to help remove barriers to assistance, expand housing opportunities, and improve the quality of life for the entire community
To start engaging our community in the development of the Homelessness Response Plan, we have launched this initiative on MyFremont (www.my.fremont.gov/homelessresponseplan).
Visit MyFremont to learn more about the plan and start providing feedback.
As we develop the plan, you will continue to receive updates and be informed of opportunities to provide feedback. Thank you for your interest and input!
For more information visit:
www.fremont.gov/Home/Components/News/News/606/
A Warm Welcome to the ‘Y’All Come and Sing’ Choir
Submitted by Shirley Gilbert
Dr. Corie Brown, Artistic Director of the East Bay People’s Choir and Mission Peak Chamber Singers, invites all lovers of music and singing to come to the kickoff potluck and informational meeting of the 2023/24 season of the two choirs on September 12 at Irvington Presbyterian Church. The potluck will be at 6:30 p.m., with the meeting at 7:30 p.m.
“We’re planning an exciting season of joyful, diverse songs,” says Dr. Brown, “and our two choirs are happy to welcome both new and experienced singers to our community.”
The objective of this first meeting, according to Dr. Brown, is to introduce the new season and share details about the two choirs. “I would love anyone interested in singing to join us and hear what our choirs are all about. Ours is a vibrant singing community and open to all. We have a place for every voice.”
For example, Mission Peak Chamber Singer members love to read music, are open to auditioning and enjoy challenging repertoires. Meanwhile, East Bay People’s Choir participants learn most music by rote, would prefer not to audition, and love to sing their hearts out not only in the shower but with a welcoming and warm group of singing enthusiasts.
“Some people learn by rote and others by reading music,” adds Dr. Brown. “My fundamental belief is that everyone can sing and enjoy making music together. We get to that enjoyment in different ways. Our goal with our two choirs is to build a joyful community through song.”
Dr. Brown will initially conduct both choirs. However, a decision will be made in January whether to start a search for an Associate Director. “A search for the right person,” says Dr. Brown, “takes time and should not be rushed.”
New members are especially welcome at this initial meeting. Those wishing to join Mission Peak Chamber Singers will be able to audition at the meeting’s end. Dr. Brown is hoping that anyone with a great ear and/or good music reading ability, and excellent attitude about choral music will want to audition.
Why should you consider joining the choir community when it meets every Tuesday? It’s the ideal way to get away for an evening, away from the cares of daily life, cultivate one’s artistic side, be with folks who love choral music, and perhaps discover a beautiful time in a beautiful space, says Dr. Brown.
The two choirs will engage in an exciting year of unforgettable music. There will be a holiday concert with singalongs, candlelight, and brass fanfares. A March recital in which water is a magical theme and a special Moroccan guest to delight in May. “This will be a great year for both singers and audiences that no one should miss,” says Dr. Brown. “Join us on September 12 and hear all about it.”
Kick Off Meeting of the East Bay People’s Choir and Mission Peak Chamber Singers
Tuesday, Sept 12
6:30 p.m. Potluck
7:30 p.m. Informational Meeting
Irvington Presbyterian Church
4181 Irvington Ave., Fremont
chambersingers.org
Contact Corie Brown at coriebrown@gmail.com
Newark Rotary Club, community partner and nonprofit supporter
By Alfred Hu
Newark Rotary Club (NRC) was founded in May 1961, with a mission consisting of five main areas: Club Service, Community Service, Youth Service, International and Vocational services. In the decades since their founding, they have devoted their time to putting on fun events and donating to good causes.
NRC members represent a wide range of professions and businesses in the Tri-City community, contribute to the club through annual dues, and engage in various community activities such as the annual Crab and Pasta Feed with live auctions and raffle prizes. One year, over 600 people enjoyed dinner at the Crab and Pasta Feed, and more than $30,000 was raised for local charities. Contributing to charities is a proud tradition of the NRC, and in the past, have raised funds for Abode, Viola Blythe Community Services Center, Newark Memorial High School, Tri Cities League of Volunteers, Boy Scouts, Make-a-Wish Foundation, YMCA and Bay Philharmonic (formerly Fremont Symphony Orchestra) to name a few.
Other activities NRC members engage in are the Thanksgiving Turkey Carving, gift wrapping, Salvation Army bell ringing and the Rotary Chili Cook-Off. “Newark Rotary always helps make the community a better place” says Sucy Collazo, President of NRC. “We are always looking for new members that are interested in serving the community” she added.
In addition to working with local organizations, NRC is also involved in international humanitarian projects such as helping a burn center in Chile, providing stoves in Guatemala, and participating in water projects in Africa. The club has contributed over $30,000 towards the Polio Plus program to eradicate polio around the world. Members have also funded and participated in the building of numerous homes in Mexico for impoverished families through the Corazon organization. Corazon, as some of us may know, means “heart” in Spanish.
Lately NRC donated a $2,000 grant to St. Edward Catholic School in Newark. Rotary members Nancy Thomas and Mayor Mike Hannon presented the check to school Principal Tina Cruz. “We’ve supported St. Edwards school for a long time,” says Thomas who recognized the school for its impressive math program. The funds will go towards the school’s Savvas Envision Math program, which encourages students to apply mathematics to solve real-world scenarios. Afterwards, visual learning is applied to solidify a student’s understanding of underlying math concepts.
Riding a bike or having a skateboard is a treasured childhood experience. Therefore, on July 8, 2023, NRC and Newark Police Department held a Bicycle Safety Rodeo event where underprivileged children or children with special needs experienced the joy of riding a special bike or skateboard. This event also promoted bicycle safety awareness. According to Jolie Macias of the Newark Police Department, NRC donated nearly $8,000 for the purchase of 40 bicycles, skateboards, and safety equipment for children. Funding for the event was raised through the annual NRC Crab Feed held January 28, 2023.
If you are interested in joining the NRC, or would like to know more, you can attend the club’s Tuesday meetings.
Newark Rotary Club
Tuesdays
12:15 p.m.
Portuguese Sports Club of Newark
7355 Thornton Ave., Newark
https://portal.clubrunner.ca/6774
Golden Bear Pass provides free day-use access to state parks
Submitted by The News Room at California State Parks
California State Parks and the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) announced the expansion of the Golden Bear Pass to participants of California’s Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, providing free day-use access to more than 200 state parks.
The Golden Bear Pass is a calendar year (January–December) pass available to qualifying Californians who receive Supplemental Security Income, California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program recipients, or income-eligible Californians age 62 and over. Newly issued passes are valid for the remainder of 2023 with an additional pass for 2024 sent at the beginning of the year.
“Time in nature is healing and beneficial to our overall well-being, which is why equitable access to California’s stunning state parks is essential,” said California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. “Expanding eligibility of the Golden Bear Pass to include low-income Native families through the Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program is critical to ensuring kids, the aging population, and other vulnerable communities reap the benefits of nature and the outdoors.”
Last year, State Parks began a three-year pilot program partnership with CDSS to make several improvements to how the Golden Bear Pass is administered. These improvements included a waiver of the $5 pass fee, direct notifications to eligible CalWORKs recipients, expedited verification of applicant eligibility and streamlined pass fulfillment.
Californians can apply for the Golden Bear Pass with their smartphone or other web-based device in just minutes and have access to more than 200 California state park units. A list of eligible units and FAQs on the Golden Bear Pass can be found at parks.ca.gov/OutdoorsForAll and at cdss.ca.gov/GoldenBearPass.
“The Golden Bear Pass has been a great success, providing an equitable opportunity for more Californians to enjoy our state’s natural beauty,” said CDSS Director Kim Johnson. “We’re thrilled that the Golden Bear Pass has now been expanded to include Tribal TANF participants. It’s my hope that the Golden Bear Pass will help ensure more people across California have an opportunity to get out, connect with their family and friends while experiencing our beautiful parks, beaches and trails.”
In addition to the Golden Bear Pass, State Parks is reminding the public about the two other free pass programs available, including the California State Park Adventure Pass for California’s fourth graders and their families. Championed by First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom—whose California for All Kids initiatives support children’s physical, mental and social-emotional well-being—incoming fourth graders can obtain their California State Park Adventure Pass beginning Sept. 1, 2023, to explore 19 select state parks for free for a full year.
Also, all Californians can check out a California State Library Parks Pass using their library cards to access more than 200 participating state park units. In partnership with the California State Library, the Library Pass program was expanded this year to also include Tribal libraries throughout the state.
For more information on all three State Parks pass programs, please visit parks.ca.gov/OutdoorsForAll
Russell City Blues: Stories and Music of a Lost Neighborhood
Submitted by Alice Rice
Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (H.A.R.D.) has partnered with KQED to present The Russell City Blues: Stories and Music of a Lost Neighborhood. The production gives voice to the rich neighborhood of Russell City that was razed in 1966. The evening of live music, history and storytelling was first presented in September of 2022 at KQED Headquarters. This year, the event will take place on Friday, September 8.
The presentation marks the official reopening of the Douglas Morrisson Theater and the launch of the new “H.A.R.D. Presents Series.” H.A.R.D. worked with KQED over several months to bring this important program back home to its roots. As H.A.R.D.’s President of the Board of Directors, Rick Hatcher notes, “It’s impossible to present a performing arts series in Hayward without paying tribute to the rich musical history of our local community—learning about the past in order to be informed for the future.”
For more information, visit HaywardRec.org.
Russell City Blues: Stories and Music of a Lost Neighborhood
Friday, Sept 8
7 p.m.
Morrisson Theater
22311 N 3rd St., Hayward
Purchase tickets at:
https://douglasmorrissontheatre.thundertix.com/
Tickets: $15
Park Happenings for September: News from the East Bay Regional Park District
Submitted by Dave Mason
Peak fire season – September and October – is fast approaching. The East Bay Regional Park District and its professionally trained fire department have been working throughout the year to reduce wildfire risks, including thinning and removing hazardous vegetation from parks and using cattle, sheep, and goats to keep grass in check.
Park District firefighters are always on the lookout for potential fires, and park visitors can help by practicing basic fire safety and reporting any suspicious or dangerous activity.
Fire safety visitor tips:
- Do not smoke in the regional parks, including vaping.
- Be aware of Red Flag Warnings and fire danger levels.
- Follow all fire safety rules.
- Do not drive or park on dry grass. Hot exhaust manifolds can start a fire.
- Be alert for any potential fire hazards and report them. If you see a fire, call 911 immediately.
It’s calving season. Calving season runs from August to October in East Bay Regional Parks. Be mindful of interactions that can create a danger to both calves and people. Grazing cattle play an important role in wildfire protection by reducing flammable vegetation and fire risks.
What to do around cattle for your safety and theirs:
- Do not approach or touch baby calves. Do not take selfies with calves.
- Do not get between a mother cow and its calf.
- Do not worry if you see a calf by itself. The mother cow is usually nearby and will return.
- Leash your dog around cattle and keep them away from calves.
Learn about the untold stories of the Somersville. A History Hike will take place on Sunday, September 17, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Black Diamond Mine. From the 1850s to the early 1900s, Mount Diablo Coal Field was the largest coal mining operation in California and the population center of Contra Costa County. Deep within the earth, miners excavated the valuable namesake of the park – “black diamonds” or coal – to support the state’s growing energy demands.
Somersville was one of five mining towns in the area and supported a thriving community of almost 1,000 residents. Although no buildings from the coal mining era remain, there is still evidence of the Somersville community, including artifacts, photographs, census records, newspaper articles, and oral histories.
Naturalists will lead the two-to-three-mile History Hike and provide information about the area’s coal and sand mining history. The program is best for ages seven and up. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a snack and plenty of water. Meet at the Upper Parking Lot. More programs are scheduled in October. For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/calendar and search “mines.”
Join the Park District in commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 with programs and events celebrating the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. Programs include a Hispanic Heritage Month Hike on Sunday, September 17, at 10 a.m. at Garin Regional Park. For more information about Hispanic Heritage Month activities, visit www.ebparks.org/hispanic-heritage-month.
California’s 39th annual Coastal Cleanup Day is September 23. Each year, over 70,000 volunteers help clear debris and remove trash from California waterways, including lakes, creeks, rivers, and shorelines. The Park District has identified 10 cleanup sites within its parks: Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline, Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, Robert W Crown Regional Shoreline, Point Isabel Regional Shoreline, Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline, Del Valle Regional Park, Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, and Hayward Regional Shoreline. For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/get-involved/volunteer/coastal-cleanup.
Celebrate International Day of Peace with the Park District at a community event at Lake Chabot Regional Park on Saturday, September 16, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This year’s theme is Actions for Peace: Our Ambition for the #GlobalGoals – a call to action that recognizes our individual and collective responsibility to foster peace. The UN-established International Day of Peace in 1981 to encourage 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire, and to practice kindness and compassion.
Introducing the Comedy Den: Castro Valley’s newest entertainment experience
Submitted by Priya Guyadeenm Founder, The Comedy Den
Laughter is about to echo through Castro Valley as the Comedy Den opens its doors to bring a fresh wave of humor and entertainment to the community. Get ready to experience side-splitting laughter, unforgettable moments, and a night of pure comedic delight.
The Comedy Den, located in the heart of Castro Valley, is thrilled to announce its grand opening on Saturday, September 16, 2023. This new hotspot is set to become the go-to destination for locals and visitors seeking a night of laughter and camaraderie. The venue is a familiar space: JP’s Family Restaurant and Sports Bar. It’s cozy and intimate setting, is perfect for fostering a strong connection between the audience and the talented entertainers who will take the stage.
“We’re excited to bring a new level of entertainment to Castro Valley,” said Priya Guyadeen, the founder of Comedy Den. “Our mission is to provide a platform for both seasoned and up-and-coming entertainers to showcase their talents, while also creating a space where the audience can relax and share in the joy of laughter.”
For more information about the Comedy Den, including show schedules, ticket information, and special event announcements, please visit www.thecomedydencv.com. Stay connected with us on social media @thecomedyden_cv.
The Comedy Den
Saturdays
6 p.m. & 8 p.m.
Grand Opening with Hypnotist Dr. Dave
Saturday, Sep 16
Magician Dan Chan
Saturday, Sep 23
Comedian Jeff Applebaum
Saturday, Sep 30
JP’s Family Restaurant (Banquet Room)
3600 Castro Valley
www.thecomedyden.com
2nd Annual Tiny Art Show Reception
Submitted by Angela Moffett
Drop by Castro Valley Library on the afternoon of September 10 to view and enjoy the tiny art pieces submitted from our creative community. There will be tiny snacks to share while supplies last. Tiny art submissions will be on display throughout the month of September.
The Castro Valley Library is a branch of the Alameda County Library system. For more information, call the library at (510) 667-7900, or go to https://aclibrary.org/.
Tiny Art Show Reception
Sunday, Sept 10
1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
https://aclibrary.org/location/castro-valley-events/
Town Hall with Alameda County District Attorney
Submitted by Sarah Royce
The voters of Alameda County elected Pamela Price for District Attorney on a platform to reform the criminal legal system. After seven months in office, how is it going? To find out directly, you are invited to attend a Town Hall meeting with Alameda County District Attorney, Pamela Price.
You can also propose questions to ask the DA, as well as select Spanish, Cantonese or ASL interpretation when you register. To register scan QR code.
The moderator will be Yoel Haile, Director of the Criminal Justice program of the ACLU Northern California. The Town Hall is organized by Faith in Action East Bay and the Interfaith Coalition for Justice in our Jails.
Here is the link to the event page:
Meet your District Attorney
Wednesday, Sep 13
6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Zoom or in-person
Niles Discovery Church, Fremont
https://fiaeastbay.org/event/meet-your-district-attorney/
Ukraine History Zoom Seminar
Submitted by Sacramento Archeological Society
Would you like to know more about Ukraine, to better understand daily news reports about the war?
The Sacramento Archeological Society (SAS), which serves northern California, is offering a seminar via Zoom on Saturday, September 9, at 2 p.m. An hour-long presentation by SAS Vice President Paul K. Davis, a Fremont resident, will survey everything from archaeological discoveries through the latest military actions. This will be followed by a half hour of questions, answers and discussion.
All are welcome, just go to the Sacramento Archeological Society website and click on “announcements.”
History of Ukraine Zoom Seminar
Saturday, Sept 9
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
RSVP at:
sacarcheology.org
Veterans ‘Stand Down’ Resource Fair
Submitted by Kathy Kimberlin
Calling all veterans, their friends, and families! Alameda County Supervisor David Haubert is sponsoring a “Stand Down” resource fair for Veterans at the Pleasanton Fairgrounds on Saturday, September 16. The fair will provide resources for veterans such as physical and mental healthcare, clothing drive, dental checkups, and haircuts. Snacks and lunch will be served and giveaways offered for attendees.
Participating organizations include Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Valley Humane Society, Rotary District 5170, CityServe of the Tri-Valley, Goodness Village, Alameda County Social Services Agency, Las Positas College, Stanford Medicine, Health Care Tri-Valley, Livermore Barber Shop, American Legion, Mission Palm Dental Associates, Decoto Family Dentistry, Joya Yoga, Axis Community Health, and Alameda County Health Care Services Agency Public Health Department.
RSVP at tinyurl.com/d1standdown. Questions? Contact the Supervisor’s office: (925) 551-6995.
Veterans ‘Stand Down’ Resource Fair
Saturday, Sep 16
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Pleasanton Fairgrounds
Building C; Enter off Gate 8
RSVP: tinyurl.com/d1standdown
Water in the Tri-cities – Where your water comes from
Submitted by Nissa Nack
Water is a complicated resource. We are able to get as much as we need by simply turning a tap, but where does it come from, and what is being done to ensure a reliable supply is available for future generations?
Meet Sharene Gonzales of Alameda County Water District to learn and discuss:
- Where your water comes from
- Ways to conserve water
- How ACWD safeguards the supply
- Impact of floods and drought on the system
No registration required. All library programs are free. To learn more about this and other library programs, visit: aclibrary.bibliocommons.com/v2/events.
Where your water comes from
Thursday, Sep 7
6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
aclibrary.bibliocommons.com/v2/events
Want to Write? What’s Stopping You?
Submitted by Tish Davidson
Have you dreamed of writing a witty story, or a tale about your childhood, but are nervous about your abilities? If so, now is the time to try the free “Zoom Social Write-In.” At the Write-In, you will be assigned to a Zoom room with three other local writers. Inspired by a variety of prompts, everyone will write spontaneously for about ten minutes and then share their responses to the prompt. This is not a critique group. Your writing will not be judged, just enjoyed, or you may choose to opt out of reading your work and just listen to other writers.
Sharing your writing in this environment is not scary or embarrassing. The prompts are general and are designed to encourage writing about yourself and your experiences. There is also time to socialize and get to know other aspiring writers. Once everyone has shared their writing, people will be reassigned a different Zoom room with different people and a different writing challenge.
The Write-In is sponsored by Fremont Area Writers (FAW), a branch of the California Writers Club, but you do not need to live in Fremont or be a member to attend. In addition to the Write-In, FAW meets on Zoom from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. on the fourth Saturday of each month. At meetings, guest speakers discuss various aspects of writing and the publishing industry. The guest speaker for September 23 is Tony Pino, teacher and published poet, who will speak on demystifying poetry. More information is available at https://cwc-fremontareawriters.org.
To participate in the Write-In or attend the free general meeting, please request the Zoom meeting link from Scott Davidson at scottfrombayside@yahoo.com.
Zoom Social Write-In
Saturday, Sep 9
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Request Zoom link from Scott Davidson
EarthTalk
Could Gulf Stream Collapse Lead To A New Ice Age?
By Grace Wu
Dear EarthTalk: Could the supposedly imminent collapse of the Gulf Stream cause another ice age? –B.L., San Francisco, CA
The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC)—aka the “Gulf Stream”—is a vital system of ocean currents, driven by temperature and salinity disparities at various locales and depths. Warm surface waters are propelled poleward by winds and tides. At the poles, the water cools, forming ice crystals devoid of salt and nutrients. The denser salt and nutrients sink to the cooler waters below, while warmer, less dense waters rise. This transports warmth and nutrients to the coasts of Africa and the Americas. In essence, the AMOC serves as a conveyor belt that transports nutrients and heat all around the globe.
Why are people worried about a Gulf Stream collapse? Rising global temperatures cause rapid melting of polar ice caps, introducing non-saline water. This dilutes deep currents, weakens AMOC’s upwelling, and disrupts circulation. Freshwater doesn’t sink rapidly, leading to a “traffic jam.” University College London researcher David Thornalley reports that the AMOC is at its weakest point in 1,600 years.
The future of AMOC is debated. Some predict it will halt; others foresee a slowdown. Some believe the point-of-no-return will come in 2025 while optimists believe we have until 2095 to stabilize the situation. Regardless, scientists have reached a consensus on the consequences of melting polar ice. The U.S. East Coast will certainly experience flooding and cooling. The Gulf Stream brings warm waters along the east coast of North America. If it stops completely, the East Coast may experience a 9°F cooldown within a decade.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) estimates that water levels are rising at a rate of one inch every three years. Between now and 2050, coastal sea levels are projected to rise one to four feet. Areas like Miami, New Orleans, Atlantic City, Manhattan, Long Island, San Francisco, San Diego and Honolulu could face severe infrastructure damage from flooding. This is not a global-scale Ice Age, but it certainly implicates grave repercussions.
Areas in Africa and Asia will grapple with drought. The AMOC brings monsoonal rainfall to areas in West Africa and South Asia. Without this circulation, countries such as Sudan, Senegal, India and Thailand will encounter drought. The supply of freshwater for human activities and agriculture will be jeopardized. The Amazon Rainforest may transform into a savanna. The AMOC brings rainfall to the Amazon Rainforest. Without this precipitation, Harvard researchers hypothesize that this tropical forest may transition into a dry savanna. The Amazon would absorb less carbon dioxide and produce less oxygen. In addition, the over three million Amazon species will struggle to survive.
Biodiversity in aquatic ecosystems will decline. The AMOC transports nutrients and oxygen. Without the circulating presence of these organic materials, populations of life forms on all tiers of the food chain will most likely dwindle.
Though neither the collapse of the Gulf Stream nor a modern-day Ice Age are guaranteed, the declining rate of the AMOC poses serious threats to our current way of life and the survival of other organisms around the globe. Reining in carbon emissions at home and around the globe is our only hope of avoiding this among many cataclysmic natural disasters in the years to come.
ONLINE CONTACTS
- Gulf Stream current could collapse in 2025, plunging Earth into climate chaos
www.livescience.com/planet-earth/climate-change/gulf-stream-current-could-collapse-in-2025-plunging-earth-into-climate-chaos-we-were-actually-bewildered
- The Collapse Of The Gulf Stream — An Epitaph For A Dying Planet
www.cleantechnica.com/2023/07/27/the-collapse-of-the-gulf-stream-an-epitaph-for-a-dying-planet/
EarthTalk is produced by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss for the nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk.org.
News and notes from around the world
Submitted by The Association of Mature American Citizens
It’s a girl!
The Bright family zoo in Limestone, TN says that its newborn giraffe is lucky to have been born “in captivity.” Giraffes use their spots for camouflage and this baby female giraffe was born without spots and, in fact, is perhaps the only spotless giraffe on the planet. David Bright explained that “being solid colored, she may not be able to hide quite as well.” Tony Bright told reporters “the international coverage of our pattern-less baby giraffe has created a much-needed spotlight on giraffe conservation. Wild populations are silently slipping into extinction, with 40% of the wild giraffe population lost in just the last 3 decades. See the spotless giraffe on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=FX8g17usvzw
This senior jumps for joy
Kim Knor of Denver, CO learned how to skydive when she was 20 years old; that was in 1959. She became a member of the inaugural U.S. Women's Parachute Team two years later. To date, the 84-year-old daredevil has made 600 jumps and is determined to reach her goal of 1,000 jumps. As she told one news outlet, “I have a choice of watching TV or sitting in front of a computer or going out and jumping and traveling across the country.” In an interview with CBS News, she had a suggestion for her fellow octogenarians: “I feel fantastic! I mean, this is what I live for. Anytime life gets too difficult or too sad just go make a jump and then everything's good!” Watch the skydiving senior on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDDpA1P8zH0
Bears will be bears
In that old yarn it was Goldilocks who broke into the home of the three bears. In the case of Brian of Kings Beach, CA it was a sleepy old bear that broke into his apartment, ate his food, wrecked his TV set and then took a nap on his bed. It was all caught on his Ring camera while Brian was out boating with friends on Lake Tahoe. Apparently, the bears are out in numbers in the Lake Tahoe area; they have been visiting not only Brian’s apartment but have been caught by video surveillance cameras in several stores in the area. See the brazen bears on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zxm0O3sNET8
The Association of Mature American Citizens is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization representing membership in Washington, D.C. and in local congressional districts nationwide. More information is available on its website at www.amac.us.
Looking Beyond the Stars
By Brian Kruse
Looking up in awe at the night sky, the stars and planets pop out as bright points against a dark background. All of the stars that we see are nearby, within our own Milky Way Galaxy. And while the amount of stars visible from a dark sky location seems immense, the actual number is measurable only in the thousands. But what lies between the stars, and why can’t we see it? Both the Hubble telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope (Webb) have revealed that what appears as a dark background, even in our backyard telescopes, is populated with as many galaxies as there are stars in the Milky Way.
So, why is the night sky dark and not blazing with the light of all those distant galaxies? Much like looking into a dense forest where every line of sight has a tree, every direction we look in the sky has billions of stars with no vacant spots. Many philosophers and astronomers have considered this paradox. However, the concept has taken the name of Heinrich Wilhelm Olbers, an early 19th century German astronomer. Basically, the Olbers Paradox asks why the night sky is dark if the Universe is infinitely old and static—in that case there would be stars visible everywhere. The observable phenomenon of a dark sky leads us directly into the debate about the very nature of the Universe—is it eternal and static, or is it dynamic and evolving?
It was not until the 1960s with the discovery of the Cosmic Microwave Background, that the debate was finally settled, though various lines of evidence for an evolving universe had built up over the previous half century. The equations of Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity suggested a dynamic universe, not eternal and unchanging as previously thought. Edwin Hubble used the cosmic distance ladder discovered by Henrietta Swan Leavitt to show that distant galaxies are moving away from us—and the greater the distance, the faster they’re moving away. Along with other evidence, this led to the recognition of an evolving Universe.
The paradox has since been resolved, now that we understand that the Universe has a finite age and size, with the speed of light having a definite value. Here’s what’s happening—due to the expansion of the Universe, the light from the oldest, most distant galaxies is shifted towards the longer wavelengths of the electromagnetic spectrum. So the farther an object is from us, the redder it appears. The Webb telescope is designed to detect light from distant objects in infrared light, beyond the visible spectrum. Other telescopes detect light at still longer wavelengths, where it is stretched into the radio and microwave portions of the spectrum. The farther back we look, the more things are shifted out of the visible, past infrared, and all the way into microwave wavelengths. If our eyes could see microwaves, we would behold a sky blazing with the light of the hot, young Universe—the Cosmic Microwave Background.
The next time you look up at the stars at night, turn your attention to the darkness between the stars, and ponder how you are seeing the result of a dynamic, evolving Universe.
This article is distributed by NASA’s Night Sky Network (NSN).
The NSN program supports astronomy clubs across the USA dedicated to astronomy outreach. Visit nightsky.jpl.nasa.govto find local clubs, events, and more!
Social Security Matters
By Russell Gloor, National Social Security Advisor, AMAC Foundation
Ask Rusty – What about all the money Congress stole from Social Security?
Dear Rusty: Is there any way that Congress will vote to pay back the Social Security funds they took for their stupid reasons, leaving IOUs in place of the funds? Because of the funds they took going back many years, we didn’t have any decent COLAs for a few years. In fact, there were I think three to five years that we didn’t get any COLA. Please Rusty, can you find out if this is true or false? Help us seniors! Signed: Resentful Senior
Dear Resentful Senior: I can assure you that I’ve fully investigated the allegation that politicians have squandered Social Security’s money and found that charge to be, simply speaking, a myth. I’ve gone back and looked at Social Security revenues and expenses since the government first started collecting FICA payroll taxes in 1937 and found that every dollar ever collected for Social Security has been used only for Social Security purposes. Over the years, various claims have been made that the money has been used for other things, but I’ve researched each of these charges and found them all to be false.
Where the misconception mostly originates is that any excess money collected from working Americans for Social Security is invested in “special issue government bonds” which pay interest, as mandated by President Roosevelt when Social Security began. As with any investment, a financial obligation instrument is given in return for dollars received. Remember when we used to buy “U.S. Savings Bonds?” We’d use our money to buy those bonds, hold them, and later redeem them for a higher amount than we paid. That’s exactly how Social Security contributions have always worked—excess money collected from working Americans is used to purchase special issue government bonds which are held in reserve, earning interest, for future Social Security needs. These special bonds reside in a Social Security Trust Fund and, as of the end of 2022, were worth about $2.8 trillion. Are these bonds “worthless IOUs” as some would claim? Hardly, since they are redeemable as needed to pay Social Security benefits.
Considering that, since 2010, Social Security’s income from payroll taxes on American workers has been less than needed to cover benefits paid out, redemption of bonds held in the Trust Fund is the only reason that Social Security has been able to continue paying full benefits to every beneficiary. The Trust Fund is a financial safety net which is now protecting all SS beneficiaries from having their benefits cut. Problem is, unless Congress acts soon to reform Social Security’s financial picture, the Trust Fund will be fully depleted in about 2033 resulting in about a 23% cut in everyone’s monthly Social Security benefit. I’m optimistic that will not happen (it would be political suicide) and, hopefully, Congress will act soon to reform Social Security and restore it to financial solvency and avoid a future cut in everyone’s benefits.
Regarding COLA (Cost of Living Adjustment) and the lack thereof for several past years, COLA is determined by the government’s standard inflation measure – the Consumer Price Index (CPI). There were several years (2010, 2011, and 2016) in which the CPI showed no inflation so, therefore, no COLA increase was given. Last year, due to soaring inflation, everyone got an 8.7% increase in their Social Security benefit, but that doesn’t happen every year. FYI, the average annual COLA increase over the last two decades has been about 2.6%, although COLA for each year can be wildly different depending on each year’s inflation measure. In any case, the lack of a COLA increase in past years was not a result of any political chicanery, it was the result of low inflation during those years.
This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or financial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit our website (amacfoundation.org/programs/social-security-advisory) or email us at ssadvisor@amacfoundation.org.
Trash Talk
By The Pickup Artist
This is the 31st edition of Trash Talk, a column devoted to cleaning up our neighborhoods, our environment, and our outlook on life.
Contest Judging Time!
I want to thank my readers for their contest entries! I am posting them here and hope ALL readers will help decide who should receive the laptop with touch screen. Remember, we are looking for the idea that will encourage recycling and/or get more people involved in making our planet a better place to live.
Recycle VHS Tapes
Many people still have a closet with VHS or Betamax tapes. Some are professional recordings; some are home movies of the kids at sports meets or school performances. They aren’t doing any good on the shelf, and could be digitized for future “remember when” parties. You may not even have a player, so the tapes are essentially useless. Either way, if you want to reclaim some closet space, it’s time to make them go away. VHS tapes CAN be digitized and recycled!
There are companies who provide this service for a fee. Old tape-based media are often not accepted by thrift stores or libraries. Check with them first before taking in a stack of tapes. Another option is to email BoredVHSlover@gmail.com. Another excellent place is called “Urban Ore.” Here is their address:
https://resource.stopwaste.org/vendor/urban-ore-berkeley-900-murray-st. They take VHS tapes, film, building materials, and electronics, with a no waste policy.
Just donating things in general before dumping them is the most important lesson I can offer. You never know who may find something at a thrift store that could really help them out.
GarBASH Get-Together
Throw a Recycle Reception or a Gar-BASH (a re-use party) with your friends!
* Everyone brings their own utensils, cups, and leftover containers from home, so no disposable food-ware is wasted.
* Everyone brings one item they no longer need at home, but that someone else could use! Make it a gift exchange like Secret Santa or a white elephant exchange. (Wrap items in newspaper or plastic bags to conceal contents.)
* The main event is a costume (or maybe a funny hat) contest! All costumes/hats must be made from as many recycled/reused materials as possible.
Make sure to give advance notice so guests can spend time collecting materials.
Reuse Pill Bottles
This organization accepts used pill bottles and reuses them in other countries that desperately need them. You can see more details at m25m.org. This reduces landfill and benefits others without these convenient and child-proof containers.
Involve Students
This solution involves forming neighborhood volunteer teams of students to pick up trash. Targeting high schools in the area and motivating the students to start a trash picking team will help the kids acquire leadership skills as well as get involved in the community. In addition, I strongly believe that littering will be reduced only when people living in the area take pride in their surroundings.
Street Art Museums
Graffiti sometimes causes buildings to lose their property value and drives people away. “Street Art” is a form of graffiti. This is similar to murals, but created without permission. Street art can be channeled into things more beneficial for the community. For instance, a Street Art Museum would be a space for artists to create works of art that allow them to express themselves. Street artists could sign up for spaces and create works for the public to enjoy without committing an illegal act. If artists had a proper place to showcase their work, they would stop vandalizing property. This would make communities prettier and artists happier!
Start the Judging
Go to this link or scan the QR code to start ranking your choices!
https://www.survio.com/survey/d/T1K1Y6P1P3E9T3N7J
The quotes for today:
“Happiness is not something readymade. It comes from your own actions.” – Dalai Lama
Contact Information
You can contact me at the following email address. Your comments and suggestions could be used in future Trash Talk columns. What’s on your mind? Send comments to ThePickupArtist-KHCG@Outlook.com.
Tri-City History – Street Names #8: Dusterberry Way
By Kelsey Camello, for the Washington Township Museum of Local History
Dusterberry Way: A street that runs north to south from Thornton Avenue to Central Avenue.
Dusterberry Way in the Centerville area of Fremont is named for Henry Dusterberry, who immigrated to Wisconsin from Germany in 1847. In 1854 he relocated to California via the overland route. Sometime between 1860 and 1863, Dusterberry purchased 81 acres on Central Avenue and married Ellen Faley. The couple purchased a home previously owned by Ben Marston (which had been moved from Alvarado). They added onto the original house, and it still stands at 4619 Central Avenue, at the corner of Central Avenue and Glenmoor Drive. Together, Henry and Ellen had five children.
Their son Frank was a prominent citizen both inside and outside of Centerville. In Centerville, he served as postmaster, store owner, local agent for Wells Fargo and Co., and he helped organize and served on the board for the Bank of Centerville (later the First National Bank of Centerville, and still later the Bank of Italy / America). Frank also served as president of the Centerville Chamber of Commerce for 15 years. Outside Centerville, he served for 14 years for the Alameda County Board of Supervisors; he helped garner support for building the Dumbarton Bridge; and he served for the Red Cross, school board, and water district. Frank also advocated for local health and welfare services. He lived to be age 75.
Ellen and Henry’s other sons, Frederick and Henry Jr. also remained in town. Henry Jr. worked as farmer for the family holdings, and Frederick owned a plumbing shop. Their daughter Mary passed away at the young age of 46.
After his wife Ellen also passed away at a young age (58), Henry’s youngest daughter Elizabeth stayed in the family home to care for her father and serve as his companion. After Elizabeth passed in 1967, she was buried alongside others in the family plot at Holy Ghost Cemetery (5252 Central Avenue).
Henry was recognized in his old age as the only surviving member of the Washington Township Pioneer Society. The Pioneer Society was comprised of men who had come to California by covered wagon or “around the horn” of South America (by ship). The first meeting of the Society took place in 1876, and the last was in 1906. Henry passed in 1919, at the old age of 89.
Today, the Dusterberry Family name lives on, most recently in the naming of Fremont’s newest park, Dusterberry Neighborhood Park.
Let’s explore local history together! Have a topic or idea you’d like us to look into? Email us at info@museumoflocalhistory.org.
Jam, Jelly, and Preserves: What’s the difference, anyway?
By John Schinkel
This time of year, the produce section is full of amazing in-season fruits that are enjoyed by themselves or as an addition to salads, smoothies, and desserts. One way to enjoy the harvest is through making jams, jellies, and preserves—loose terms that differentiate fruit spreads based on final texture and preparation method. Some recipes are fit for canning, to keep these spreads shelf-stable to be enjoyed well past season.
So, what’s the difference? Let’s start with jam. This beloved condiment is made from mashed fruit, cooked with sugar and acid, producing a looser texture. When you’re using seed-laden berries such as strawberries or raspberries, the seeds will be present in the final product. Jam does not necessarily have to be fruit-based. Recently, savory jams have risen in popularity. Common examples include jams made with things like caramelized onion, tomato, and bacon.
Jelly: Think PB&J! Jelly contains no whole fruit, as it is made from the juices of fruit. Similarly to jam, an acidic component such as lemon juice, and sugar are used to cook the fruit juice, but the final product usually has pectin (a natural thickener) added in order to give it that easy-to-spread gelatinous texture.
Preserves: As the name suggests, this method focuses on preserving the fruit. Jam and preserves are similar, but preserves tend to be thicker, with larger chunks or even whole fruit present. Like jam, seeds are present in preserves, and the cooking method is the same. Marmalade, a tangy preserve, is a great example as it has both the rind and pulp of citrus.
My personal favorite fruit spread is jam. With just three ingredients of fruit, honey, and lemon juice, my recipe couldn't be easier. I like to use honey as opposed to sugar, as it adds flavor of its own while also bringing out the sweetness in the fruit. I prefer to use something local, such as George’s Honey, but any 100% honey will do. Additionally, honey complements warming spices like cinnamon, which I sometimes add to apricot jam for more depth of flavor.
Fruit Jam
Serves 10
Level: Easy
Ingredients for this recipe:
- 4 cups of desired fruit, chopped (Best with strawberries or apricots)
- 1 cup of George’s Honey
- Juice of ½ lemon
In a wide, heavy-bottomed pan place fruit and honey. Mix well to combine, and allow to macerate (soften) for 10 minutes. Turn on heat to medium-high and bring to boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. After about 15 minutes, scrape the bottom of the pan from one end to the other, if a channel forms and holds for a few seconds before closing, the jam is done. Enjoy for up to one month.
John Schinkel is a lifelong Fremont resident who completed his culinary education at Laney College in Oakland. He specializes in, and has a passion for French, Italian, and modern American cuisines. Professionally, he works in nonprofit development. His spare time is spent as President of the Rotary Club of Mission San Jose, Fremont Elks Lodge 2121, and the Washington Hospital Healthcare Foundation. John resides in Niles with his fiancé, Marty. Questions, comments? Johnarthurculinary@gmail.com
Hayward Unified School District
Board of Education Meeting
August 23, 2023
Consent Items
- Approve Memorandums of Understandings:
University of California Regents – Destination College Advising Corps; Soccer Without Borders: Chabot – Las Positas Community College District; Sponsors for Educational Opportunity, SEO Scholars San Francisco; The 5ive Pillars Organization; Centro Legal De La Raza
- Approve Contracts:
Carol Lee Tolbert-CCMS; Ignite! Reading; Khepera Curriculum Group; SpaceTime Social Inc.; Learning A-Z; Document Tracking Services; Yes and So Publishing
- Approve Contracts:
Robot Boy Productions; Bay Area Driving School; Araceli Cristina Garcia; Osorio Training Center; Eden Youth and Family Center; Independently You Collectively Us; Leadership 4 Justice; STEM 4 REAL; East Bay Center for the Preservation of Cultural Arts; Thomas Martial Arts and Fitness Academy; America SCORES Bay Area; United Capoeira Association; Beat Box Dance Academy LLC; Nexplore, LLC; Global Impact, Inc.; Administrative Software Applications, Inc.; Cityspan, Inc.
- Approve Contracts:
ICA – Leadership Coaching Charles Hill; ICA – Leadership Coaching – Gregory Fobbs; California School Inspections, LLC; Sysco Food Services; Royal Ambulance; Infinite Campus; RCM Fire Protection; Individual Food Service
- Measure H Contracts:
Penkor Wrecking; Dynamic Security Technology; One Workplace L. Ferrari; Team CivX, LLC
President Peter Bufete Aye
April Oquenda Aye
Joe Ramos Aye
Ken Rawdon Aye
Sara Prada Aye
Milpitas Unified School District
August 22, 2023
Consent Items
- Approve Agreements with:
Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo for legal services; Ascendancy Solutions Inc.; BrainPop Renewal; McArthur & Levin for legal services; Esther B Clark School; Palo Alto Preparatory Non-Public School; Pine Hill School Non-Public School; The Creekside School, Non-Public School; Lozano Smith for Legal Services; CSBA for Legal and Subscription Services; Cyclone Fence & Iron, Inc. for the Fencing Project at Pomeroy; AAA Fence, Company, Inc. for the Fencing Project at Burnett and Randall; Golden Bay Fence Plus Iron Works, Inc. for the Fencing Project at Zanker; Signet Testing Labs, Inc. for MHS Performing Arts Center; Tri-Valley’s Agreement for Paving Work at Milpitas High
- Approve CIS, Inc.’s Agreement for Inspector of Record (IOR) Services for Phase III Fencing Projects at Burnett, Pomeroy, Randall, and Zanker
- Approve Cornerstone Earth Group’s Geotechnical Observation and Testing Agreement for Innovation Campus, Phase II
- Approve Purchase Order Report of August 22, 2023
- Approve Enrollment Projection Consultants’ Proposal for 2023-24
- Approve the Memorandum of Understanding with Swing Education Services
- Approve Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with San Jose Evergreen Community College District for the 2023-24 School Year
- Approve two representatives for the SELPA Community Advisory Committee (CAC) for a two year term
- Approve Consolidated Application & Reporting System (CARS) Application for Funding
- Approve the contract for Daybreak ELD Coaching for Rancho ELD teachers
- Approve the renewal of IXL Learning subscription at Rancho Milpitas Middle School
- Approve 2023-24 Learning A-Z License Renewal
- Approve the purchase Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Math 180 Subscription Package
- Review and adopt the 2023-24 Budget Calendar
Student Representatives Janice Herradura and Satvika Iyer were in attendance.
President Chris Norwood Aye
Hai Ngo Aye
Kelly Yip-Chuan Aye
Anu Nakka Aye
Robert Jung Aye
Alameda County Fire Log
Submitted by ACFD
Saturday, August 26
- At 7:25 p.m. Alameda County Fire Department (ACFD) responded to a motorhome fire that extended into the eucalyptus trees near Tudor and Biggie Street in San Leandro. Union Pacific was called to stop all trains through the area while fire personnel mitigated the incident. There were no reported injuries to community members or firefighters.
Monday, August 28
- At around 2 p.m. ACFD’s Engine 10 responded to a car fire behind a business in the 10000 block of Bigge Street in San Leandro. Once on scene, crews found a pick-up truck, attached to a box trailer, and another car on fire. One car was on the railroad track. ACFD put out a vegetation fire that could have threatened nearby homes. No one was injured. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
BART Police Log
Submitted by BART PD
Friday, August 25
- At 6:29 p.m. a man identified by police as Joe Finster, 42, from Oakland was taken into custody at Bay Fair station. Finster was booked into Alameda County Jail for possession of a controlled substance and drug paraphenalia; disobeying a court order and violation of the rules of probation.
- At 8:57 p.m. a man identified by police as James Carpenter, 36, from San Francisco was taken into custody at Bay Fair station and booked into Alameda County Jail for false impersonation.
Saturday, August 26
- At 9:57 a.m. a man identified by police as Adam Fars, 30, from San Bruno was contacted aboard a train at Union City station and taken into custody for carrying a concealed dirk or dagger. Fars was booked into the Alameda County Jail.
- At 10:34 p.m. a man identified by police as Ian Huber, 27, from Anderson was stopped at Milpitas station for fare evasion and taken into custody. Huber was booked into Santa Clara County Jail for an outstanding warrant.
Monday, August 28
- At 9:52 a.m. an officer identified and contacted Andres Theusharris, 33, from San Francisco on a train at Bay Fair station. Theusharris was arrested and booked into Alameda County Jail for an outstanding warrant.
Tuesday, August 29
- At 8:47 a.m. officers identified and contacted Raydell Fletcher, 36, from Alameda for fare evasion at Fremont station. Fletcher was arrested and was booked into the Alameda County Jail for possession of drug paraphenalia and violating the rules of probation.
- At 10:53 p.m. a man identified by police as Ricardo Robles, 30, from Hayward was arrested at Hayward station for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphenalia; disobeying a court order and violation of the rules of probation. Robles was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Wednesday, August 30
- At 12:23 a.m. officers contacted Pedro Beccera, 20, from Oakland for fare evasion at Hayward station. Beccera was arrested and booked into Alameda County Jail for false impersonation and forging a public seal.
- At 7:15 a.m. officers identified and contacted Jordan Gill, 21, from Pittsburg in the paid area of Hayward station. Gill was arrested for assault and making physical threats. He was booked into the Alameda County Jail upon being medically cleared. Gill was issued a BART Prohibition Order.
CHP Log
Submitted by California Highway Patrol Hayward Area Office
Sunday, August 20
- At approximately 9:43 p.m. officers assigned to the CHP Hayward Area office were advised of a possible freeway shooting that occurred on southbound Interstate 880 north of Davis Street in San Leandro.
Officers located one victim who did not sustain any injuries. The victim vehicle was struck three times by rounds as a result of this shooting. The CHP Hayward Area is investigating this incident with assistance from Golden Gate Investigative Services Unit.
Currently, the suspect vehicle is described as a white SUV and a suspect has not been identified. Any assistance from the public in gathering additional details surrounding this shooting is appreciated. If you have any information regarding this incident, please call CHP Hayward Area office at (510) 489-1500.
Fatal Fremont Traffic Collision
Submitted by The Fremont Police Department
On August 24, 2023, at approximately 6 p.m., Fremont Fire and Fremont Police personnel responded to a vehicle vs. pedestrian collision in a parking lot at the 5000 block of Mowry Ave. The preliminary investigation indicates a 2-year-old juvenile was struck by the moving vehicle in the parking lot. The juvenile was treated on the scene by Fremont Fire personnel and transported to Eden Hospital, where the juvenile succumbed to the injuries.
The Fremont Police Traffic Unit is investigating the collision. The vehicle's driver remained on the scene and is cooperating with this investigation. Investigators are canvassing video surveillance footage that may have captured this collision from nearby sources. During the preliminary steps of this investigation, speed and impairment do not appear to be a factor with the vehicle's driver.
This is Fremont's seventh fatal traffic collision in 2023.
This tragedy deeply saddens Fremont Police Department, and we sympathize with the juvenile's family. As a community, we mourn this tragic loss of life.
This incident remains an active and ongoing investigation. Anyone who witnessed this collision or with information regarding this collision, please contact Officer J. Shannon with the Fremont Police Traffic Unit by calling (510) 790-6760. We also accept anonymous tips. Text ‘Tip FremontPD' followed by your short message to 888-777 or via the web at www.fremontpolice.gov/i-want-to/submit-a-non-urgent-tip
Fremont Police Log
Submitted by Fremont PD
Tuesday, August 8
- Officers responded to a store on Christy St. after an employee reported having been robbed at gunpoint. The victim saw the subject place merchandise in a backpack and attempted to apprehend him. The subject resisted and pointed a gun at the victim, leaving with products from the store. This case remains under investigation.
Thursday, August 10
- Officers responded to a victim on Eugene St. who had been attacked by two subjects armed with a knife and gun. The subjects had broken the windows of the victim’s RV, and when she confronted them, they held a knife to her and pointed a gun at her. They fled prior to police arrival, but officers located the address where the subjects’ vehicle was registered. After arriving at that address, officers arrested two adult subjects, one out of Fremont and the other out of Oakland.
Friday, August 11
- Officers responded to the Beth Torah Jewish Temple at 42000 Paseo Padre Pkwy regarding a bomb threat. Officers calmly evacuated the congregation and initiated a thorough search of the facilities and surrounding property. No suspicious devices were located, and no suspicious persons were seen in the area. Temple officials advised they were previously made aware of similar hoaxes occurring at other synagogues in California.
Monday, August 14
- Officers responded to a massage parlor on Warm Springs Blvd. that had been robbed by a subject with a firearm. The subject pointed a gun at the employee at the front desk and demanded money, then fled on foot with cash before officers arrived. This case remains under investigation.
- Officers responded to a victim who had been struck on the head with a beer bottle by a subject at Quarry Lakes. The crime was determined to have happened in East Bay Regional Park District Police (EBRP) jurisdiction. Prior to their arrival, officers found the subject attempting to flee and detained him. The investigation was turned over to EBRP Police, who later arrested the subject.
Milpitas Fire Log
Submitted by Milpitas Fire Department
Saturday, August 19
- Milpitas Firefighters participated in a collaborative effort to raise money for the Hawaiian Fire Foundation with 100% of the proceeds going directly to the foundation. Locations included Santana Row, Gilroy Premium Outlets, and Stanford Shopping Center. We would like to thank everyone who donated and also to the business centers that allowed the event to take place on short notice. It was an event we will never forget, and hope to continue the great work of supporting those in need.
Wednesday, August 23
- At 6:57 a.m. Milpitas Fire Units responded to a report of a motor vehicle accident at Great Mall and Abel. MFD units responded and upon arrival found three total patients with one patient requiring medical aid on the roadway. A single patient was transported to Regional Medical Center due to injuries.
Milpitas Police Log
Submitted by Milpitas PD
Friday, August 18
- Around 7:12 p.m., a suspect stole several items from a store near the 1150-Block of Great Mall Dr. When an employee attempted to stop him, the suspect brandished a firearm in his waistband and immediately ran away. The store employee flagged down an officer patrolling the area and reported the crime. Another officer located and arrested the suspect after a brief foot pursuit. The suspect was booked into jail for robbery, resisting arrest, possession of brass knuckles, and brandishing an imitation firearm.
Saturday, August 19
- Around 8:07 p.m. a midnight shift officer patrolling their area contacted an unhoused 53-year-old male near the 300-Block of Ranch Dr. The subject had outstanding warrants for burglary and disorderly conduct. He was arrested and booked into jail.
Sunday, August 20
- Around 6:36 a.m., a midnight shift officer located a vehicle associated with an attempted homicide in a neighboring jurisdiction near the 300-Block of Ranch Dr. The neighboring agency was notified, and the vehicle was impounded as evidence.
- Around 12:44 p.m., an unhoused 56-year-old male threatened a victim with a knife during an unprovoked incident near Starlite Park. Officers located and arrested the suspect, who was in possession of a switchblade knife. The suspect was booked into jail for brandishing a weapon.
Friday, August 25
- Milpitas Police officers and detectives conducted an Organized Retail Crime Operation (ORC) at the Great Mall which resulted in the arrest of six retail theft suspects. Five suspects were cited and released for theft, and one was booked into jail for theft and various outstanding warrants. Over $1,000 in stolen merchandise was recovered and returned to the stores.
Saturday, August 26
- At about 9:30 a.m. detectives became aware of videos posted on Ring.com – Neighbors Public Safety Service. The videos showed a person prowling at residences. Detectives recognized the person and officers located him in less than one hour after the identification was made. The male suspect was arrested and booked into jail for outstanding felony burglary warrants.
Newark Police Log
Submitted by Newark PD
Monday, August 21
- At 6:52 p.m. police identified and arrested Israel Elias Austin at the 5500 Block of Cedar Court for vandalism and robbery.
Tuesday, August 22
- At 8:10 p.m. police identified and took into custody Fernando Rodriguez at the 39800 Block of Cedar Boulevard for an outside misdemeanor warrant.
Wednesday, August 23
- At 6:16 p.m. police identified and arrested Jason Edward Fahey and Stephen Vincent Engle at the 5900 Block of Mowry Avenue. Fahey was arrested for burglary; breaking and entering; and possession of burglary tools. Engle was arrested for breaking and entering; possession of burglary tools; and probation violation.
Thursday, August 24
- At 9:26 p.m. Michael Garley was taken into custody at the 6300 Block of Jarvis Avenue for an outstanding misdemeanor warrant.
Saturday, August 26
- At 2:14 pm police identified and arrested Tshimanga Novy Brown at the 34700 Block of Ardentech Court for the unlawful use of an identification card and a threat crime with intent to terrorize.
- At 2:41 a.m. police identified and summoned/cited Erin Elisabeth Doughtery at the 6200 Block of Jarvis Avenue for an outside misdemeanor warrant.
- At 4:48 a.m. police identified and arrested Fernando Ramirez Garcia at Thorton Avenue and Marshlands Road for Reckless Driving; Driving Without a License; and Driving Under the Influence. Ramirez Garcia had a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent.
Sunday, August 27
- At 1:53 p.m. identified and arrested Dylan Flores at the corner of Thorton Avenue and Interstate 880 for Driving Under the Influence. Flores had a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent.
Monday, August 28
- At 2:39 a.m. police identified and summoned/cited Kenneth Johnson at the 39800 Block of Balentine Drive for an outside misdemeanor arrest warrant.
- At 8:48 a.m. police identified and took into custody Michael Keith Jr. Turner at Birch Street and Smith Avenue for outstanding felony and misdemeanor warrants.
- At 11:36 a.m. police identified and took into custody Richard Dominguez at 7-Eleven East for an outstanding felony warrant.
Union City Police Log
Submitted by UCPD
Wednesday, August 9
- From 7 am -12 pm the High Impact Traffic Team (HITT) conducted enforcement in Union City. The team focused on several areas identified by the UCPD Traffic Unit, including the schools in the city. There was an emphasis on stop sign violations, speeding, cell phone violations, and various equipment violations. Law enforcement officers from six different agencies joined us to participate in the operation.
Just in time for the beginning of the school year, the operation yielded 190 citations to curb undesirable driving behaviors.
Colts Volleyball Win Varsity Challenge
Submitted by Matt Guzman
James Logan High School’s girls’ volleyball team finished 5-0 at the 2023 Hillsdale Varsity Challenge on Saturday, August 26. The Logan Colts of Union City beat out Lowell High School of San Francisco on with an exciting final match, with the set scores of 25-21, 21-25, 15-5.
Weekend stat leaders include:
McKenzie Anderson (32 Kills, 44 Digs)
Julianna Bondoc (50 Digs)
Kaitlyn Anderson (49 Assist)
Leann Jung (43 Assist)
Emma Tran (23 Kills, 30 Digs)
Newark Zombie Fun Run
Submitted by Newark Recreation Department
Registration is now open for Newark’s Zombie Fun Run. The Zombie Fun Run will take place on Friday, October 27 from 4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Walk or run, all are welcome. Oversized games, music, giveaways, and a healthy way to kick off your Halloween weekend. One $30 registration required per family. Run begins promptly at 5 p.m. Sing up now, spots will up quickly. Find it under Fall 2023, Special Events. For questions, email jessennia.taimani@newark.org.
Zombie Fun Run
Friday, Oct 27
4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
(510) 578-4620
https://newarkca.activityreg.com
Ohlone men’s soccer drops season opener
Submitted by Ohlone Athletics
Freshman Jonathan Perez knocked in the first goal of the season for Ohlone College, but the Renegades couldn't hang on to a first-half lead and suffered a 2-1 loss at Yuba College in both teams’ opening game of 2023.
Perez broke free to open the scoring in the 33rd minute off the assist from freshman Jaime Lozano to give Ohlone a 1-0 lead. The Renegades took the narrow advantage into the break, but it didn't last long as Yuba scored the equalizer in the 47th minute and went ahead for good late in the 88th minute to snatch a draw away from the visitors.
Freshman Pedro Velez totaled four saves in goal for Ohlone.
Moreau Catholic Football Falls in Home Opener
By Andrew Joseph
The Moreau Catholic Mariners football team lost 60-29 in their home opener to the Archbishop Riordan Crusaders on Friday, September 1 in a non-league matchup.
“The main focus for us as a team is to get better each week,” said Mariners head coach Keith Minor. “We just wanted to come out here tonight and play as best we can against a very talented Riordan team that is stacked with a lot of great players.”
Archbishop Riordan is known to be a talented football school, producing four NFL players in its history. The Mariners offense was stagnant against the Crusaders to start the game, and their defense just couldn’t keep up with receivers and running backs. Riordan scored the first points of the night with a pass into the end-zone for a touchdown less than three minutes into the first quarter. They missed the extra point attempt making the score 6-0. Mariners junior standout, Jalen Arnold, responded right away with a big kick return for a touchdown in the first quarter to give them the lead of the game, 7-6. “On that kick return for a touchdown when I caught the ball I saw one of my teammates cracked an open hole then I just got out of it and ran,” said Arnold.
Arnold’s touchdown was the only highlight for the Mariners in the first half. Riordan’s offense got back-to-back scoring drives early and continued to pile up their lead on offense. Moreau went into the locker room down 47-7 at halftime. “We had a bit of a fight in the locker room at halftime – not a fist fight, but it was physical – and that brought our team back together to perform in the second half,” added Arnold.
Senior Carlos Sanchez is the backup quarterback who was inserted to start the second half after. A visibly different focus in the second half was displayed by Moreau, with Arnold being the center of attention the rest of the game. Moreau began picking up two first downs to get them in the red zone on their first scoring drive. Arnold then caught a pass from Sanchez for the first Moreau offensive touchdown of the game at the end of the third quarter. That touchdown began igniting their offense to put up a total of 22 points in the second half. All four touchdowns from the Mariners were scored by Arnold, who had a spectacular night.
“I know what Jalen can do when the ball’s put in his hands, he’s a very special player and we all know that because his four touchdowns tonight are pretty self-explanatory,” said Moreau Catholic senior quarterback Sanchez. “We came out with a lot of heart in the second half tonight.”
The Mariners have yet to win a game, falling to 0-2 this season. They have two transfer students, including junior running back Jaden Bryant. Bryant will make a huge difference in the Mariners’ ground game to give them depth on offense. Transfers have to sit out five games before they can play for their new school. The fifth game of this season for Moreau Catholic is October 6 against the Castro Valley Trojans, which is also the first league game of the season.
“We should really push ourselves during practice more often than we do and we’ll be ready for our first league game against Castro Valley,” added Arnold. “I honestly think we will win our league this season.”
Within reach of the WACC Mission League title, Moreau lost their only game to Berkeley High who won that league last season. Their next game is at home against undefeated non-league opponent San Marin on Friday, September 8.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Do Not Demolish 1895 Sunderer Home
Joseph Sunderer rebuilt his house in Mission San Jose twice after fires swept through the town in 1884 and 1895. He organized and became the first Fire Chief of the Mission San Jose Fire Department. The fire-fighting apparatus was kept in his barn.
A developer is asking for a demolition permit after a December 2022 fire partially damaged the house at 43341 Mission Boulevard. The permit only refers to Sunderer as a bootmaker and Wells Fargo agent, but he contributed in so many other ways to the Mission San Jose community.
It would be a dishonor to Fire Chief Sunderer to let a developer demolish his house.
H.A.R.D. will review the demolition permit on Thursday, September 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the Niles Room of the Fremont City Services building on Liberty Street.
Send comments to Mark Hungerford at mhungerford@fremont.gov.
Chris and Alice Cavette
Fremont
Honor roll
Simmons University
Spring 2023 dean’s list
- Yiru Chen of Newark
Seton Hall University
Spring 2023 dean’s list
- Maiya Banaria of Union City
- Leo Chu of Castro Valley
Patricia Doyne receives Art Leadership award
Submitted by Winnie Thompson
Patricia Doyne was chosen to be Alameda County’s District 4 recipient of the 2023 Arts Leadership Award. Doyne is President of Castro Valley’s A.R.T., Inc; Vice President of the Diablo/Alameda Branch of the National League of American Pen Women; and Secretary for Fremont Area Writers. She is a resident of Hayward.
As a volunteer in many organizations, Patricia Doyne brings art, music, and poetry into as many peoples’ lives as she can. In 2018, Pat joined A.R.T., Inc. and was elected Secretary. When the President’s position became vacant, she pitched in to fill the void. In 2021, during the Pandemic, she was elected President. During the last two years, Pat has organized and supervised four art exhibits at the Adobe Art Gallery and Center in Castro Valley and one at the John O’Lague Galleria in Hayward.
She has also been a volunteer docent for two Transitional Kindergartens, a longtime member of Hayward Arts Council (HAC), Secretary for Fremont Area Writers, and part of the team that chose the first Hayward Poet Laureate in 2022. Since 2007, she has been taking Taiko drumming lessons, and she participated in shows at the opening of Dumbarton Quarry Campground, and at Castro Valley Center for the Arts.
Read more about the Art Leadership Award at https://arts.acgov.org/advocacy/.
Chicago TV news crew robbed at gunpoint while reporting on a string of robberies
Associated Press
CHICAGO (AP), August 29 — A Chicago television news crew reporting on a string of robberies ended up robbed themselves after they were accosted at gunpoint by three armed men wearing ski masks. Spanish-language station Univision Chicago said a reporter and photographer were filming just before 5 a.m. on August 28 in Chicago`s West Town neighborhood when three masked men brandishing firearms robbed them, taking their television camera and other items. “They were approached with guns and robbed. Mainly it was personal items, and they took a camera,” Luis Godinez, vice president of news at Univision Chicago, told the Chicago Tribune.
Godinez said the news crew was filming a story about robberies in the West Town community that was slated to run on the morning news. He said the footage they shot was in the stolen camera, and the story never made it on the air. Chicago police identified the victims as a 28-year-old man and 42-year-old man. Police said the pair was outside when the three men drove up in a gray sedan and black SUV. After the armed robbers took items from the news crew they fled in their vehicles. No injuries were reported and no one is in custody, police said. Godinez said Univision Chicago, the local TV affiliate of international media company TelevisaUnivision, is not disclosing the names of the reporter and photographer to protect their privacy. “They're OK, and we're working on it together as a team,” he said.
The episode was the second robbery this month involving a Chicago news crew, after a WLS-TV photographer was assaulted and robbed on August 8 while preparing to cover a weekday afternoon news conference on Chicago`s West Side, the station reported. The robberies prompted the National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians Local 41, which represents TV photographers in Chicago, to warn about the growing safety threats to those who cover the news. “Our news photographers and reporters provide a very important public service in keeping our community informed. We are committed to making sure that their safety comes first, “Raza Siddiqui, president of the union local, said in a statement. Siddiqui told the Chicago Sun-Times that some of the news stations affiliated with the union planned to take additional safety steps, including assigning security to some TV crews. He said the union is arranging a safety meeting for members to “voice some of their concerns that they may have from the streets” and to determine what the union can do to provide support for its members.
San Francisco launches driverless bus service following robotaxi expansion
By Terry Chea, Associated Press
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) Aug. 18 — First came the robotaxis. Then the driverless buses arrived.
San Francisco has launched an autonomous shuttle service — less than a week after California regulators approved the expansion of robotaxis despite traffic and safety concerns. The free shuttle will run daily in a fixed route called the Loop around Treasure Island, the site of a former U.S. Navy base in the middle of San Francisco Bay. The Loop makes seven stops, connecting residential neighborhoods with stores and community centers. About 2,000 people live on the island.
The all-electric vehicle, which doesn't have a driver's seat or steering wheel, is staffed with an attendant who can drive the bus with a handheld controller if necessary. The county is offering the shuttle service as part of a grant-funded pilot program to assess how autonomous vehicles can supplement the public transit system.
“Having the attendant on board makes everyone feel comfortable,” said Tilly Chang, executive director of the San Francisco County Transportation Authority. “This is just a demonstration for now to see, what does it look like and how does it work to have a driverless shuttle in a low-volume, low-speed environment? “
San Francisco is one of a growing number of cities worldwide that are testing the safety and potential of self-driving vehicles to transform public transportation. The shuttles are operated by Beep, an Orlando, Florida-based company that has run similar pilot programs in more than a dozen U.S. communities, including service at the Miami Zoo, Mayo Clinic and Yellowstone National Park.
“These shuttles are built for first-mile, last-mile, short connectivity routes. They're not intended to take the place of a bus system,” said Beep project manager Shelley Caran. “The autonomous vehicle will have a better reaction time than a human and it will offer a more reliable service because they won't be distracted.”
During a test ride Wednesday, the shuttle drove slowly and cautiously in autonomous mode. An attendant manually steered the vehicle around a utility truck that blocked part of the road. “I didn't feel unsafe,” said Dominic Lucchesi, an Oakland resident who was among the first to ride the autonomous shuttle. “I thought that it made some abrupt stops, but otherwise I felt like I was riding any other bus for the most part.”
The boxy shuttle, which can sit up to 10 passengers, will operate 9 a.m. to 6 p. m. every day and circle the Loop every 20 minutes. The city has two shuttles – one can charge while the other ferries passengers. The autonomous shuttle pilot project was launched after the California Public Utilities Commission voted to allow two rival robotaxi companies, Cruise and Waymo, to offer around-the-clock passenger service in San Francisco.
The approval came despite widespread complaints that the driverless taxis make unexpected stops, cause traffic backups and block emergency vehicles. On Wednesday, the city asked the commission to pause the robotaxi expansion. Cruise, a subsidiary of General Motors, reported on social media that one of its robotaxis crashed into a city fire truck Thursday night, sending one passenger to the hospital. Experts don't anticipate the same problems with driverless buses because they're expected to be staffed with drivers or attendants for the foreseeable future.
“Trained operators are going to be required even as we increase automation,” said Nikolas Martelaro, autonomous-vehicle researcher at Carnegie Mellon University. “So the question there may not be how worried should someone be about losing their job versus what should they be thinking about the potential training that's required.”
Autonomous driving technology could make buses safer, but requiring drivers or attendants on-board could undermine one of their perceived advantages: reduced labor costs. “We still have to find a market for them,” said Art Guzzetti, vice president at the American Public Transportation Association. “We're doing it to make the trip better, more efficient, not to take the worker's job.”
Continuing Events:
Tuesdays
East Bay Games Meet
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
German/Euro style board games and card games.
Swiss Park
5911 Mowry Ave., Newark
(510) 936-2523
meetup.com/east-bay-games
Tuesdays
Poker Tournaments
6:00 pm
Weekly tournaments for beginners or seasoned players.
The Clubhouse Bistro & Bar
4020 Technology Pl., Fremont
(510) 651-2500
bit.ly/3GllRwI
Tuesdays
A Matter of Balance R
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels of older adults
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7540
Space is limited. Call or email to register.
First and Third Tuesdays
Mobile Food Distribution with Tri-City Volunteers
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Bring your own bag.
Fremont Adult School
4700 Calaveras Ave., Fremont
(510) 793-6465
tri-cityvolunteers.org/food
First Tuesdays
Open Mic on the Labyrinth
6:30 pm – 8:00 pm
Share your music, poetry, comedy, and spoken words
St. Anne’s Episcopal Church
2791 Driscoll Rd., Fremont
(510) 490-0553
First and Third Tuesdays & Wednesdays
Trivia Night
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Gather your team, grab some beers, and compete to win prizes.
Drake's Brewing Company
1933 Davis St. #177, San Leandro
(510) 568-2739
bit.ly/3U31xWD
Wednesdays
Tropics Bingo
7:00 pm
Flash games
Tropics Mobile Home Park
33000 Almaden Blvd., Union City
(510) 471-8550
First Wednesdays
Talkin' Dirt R
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Online gathering of gardeners.
Local Ecology and Agriculture Fremont (LEAF) Center
36501 Niles Blvd., Fremont
bit.ly/3UPp51i
Wednesdays
Trivia Night R$
6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
Play & win prizes.
The Clubhouse Bistro & Bar
4020 Technology Pl., Fremont
(510) 651-2500
fremontclubhouse.com
Thursdays & Saturdays
Story Time
10:30 am – 11:00 am
Picture book story time
Banter Bookshop
3768 Capitol Ave. Ste. F., Fremont
(510) 565-1004
bit.ly/3VFpbcz
Thursday -Sunday
Animal Feeding
3:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Feed livestock and learn about their favorite food.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757
Admission fee applies
Fridays and Saturdays
Telescope Viewings
7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Experience the awe and wonder of the universe.
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
bit.ly/3pehdLx
Saturdays
Laugh Track City $
8:00 pm
Series of improvised games and scenes
Made Up Theatre
4000 Bay St. suite B., Fremont
(510) 573-3633
bit.ly/3HKIhsa
Saturdays
Sip & Shop Maker's Market
11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Enjoy delicious drinks while browsing offerings from local vendors!
Castro Valley Market Place
3295 Castro Valley Blvd., Castro Valley
(510) 901-1001
castrovalleymarketplace.com/calendars
Second Saturdays
Lend a hand. Help a community. R
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Join in volunteering and tackle the projects that benefit from group effort.
LEAF CR Stone Garden
55 Mowry Ave., Fremont
bit.ly/3LDQa3H
Volunteer agreement needs to be completed.
Second Saturdays
Open Garden Days
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Displays include taxidermy of native birds and mammals, native plants and access to an educator and or Ranger.
Central Park Nature Learning Center
40000 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
cutt.ly/xwdxx9G8
Second Saturdays
Alviso Adobe Tours $
1:00 pm
Docent-led tours and video presentation.
Alviso Adobe Park
2087 Alviso Adobe Ct., Milpitas
(408) 586-3210
bit.ly/3Wcmgau
Sunday – Saturday
Summer Recreational Swim $
Mon – Fri: 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Sat – Sun: 12:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Attractions may vary
Silliman Activity and Family Aquatic Center
6800 Mowry Ave., Newark
(510) 578-4620
bit.ly/3nxo0is
Second & Fourth Sundays
Larry “O” Teen Workshop
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Used bikes, bike parts for sale and bike repair.
Larry Orozco Teen Workshop
33623 Mission Blvd., Union City
(510) 675-5487
Instagram @ibikeunioncity
Mondays & Thursdays
Fruit Tree Gleaning
9:00 am – 10:30 am
Donate fresh fruits from your garden.
LEAF CR Stone Garden
55 Mowry Ave., Fremont
bit.ly/42e4FlR
info@fremontleaf.org.
Wednesdays, December 7 – November 22
Qi Gong Meditation & Exercise Classes
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Relieve Stress and anxiety by joining Falun Dafa classes.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
shorturl.at/gqZ49
Second and Third weekends, March 11 – October 29
Public weekend train ride $
9:30 am – 5:00 pm
1.5 hour round trip on steam and/or diesel operated trains
Departures: 10:30 am & 1:00 pm
Niles Canyon Railway
6 Kikare Rd., Sunol
(510) 996-8420
Online booking: ncry.org
Tuesdays, March 21 – December 19
Chess Mix
12:30 pm – 03:00 pm
Drop in for some casual chess games.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
shorturl.at/ehsRS
Wednesdays, April 5 – September 6
Board Game Night
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Play board games with family, friends, or make new friends.
Centerville library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
bit.ly/3VTzrhF
Second Saturdays, April 8 – December 9
The Ohlone College Flea Market
9:00 am – 3:00 pm
(510) 659-6285
Ohlone College
43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont
bit.ly/3lSRWFg
First Wednesday & Third Sunday, April 16 – November 19
Shinn House tour
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Visit Shinn House on a docent led tour
Shinn Historical Park and Arboretum
1251 Peralta Blvd., Fremont
(510) 790-5541
bit.ly/3TWli28
Mondays, April 17 – December 8
Job Lab
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
One-on-one help for jobseekers
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
bit.ly/3mbW8Qz
Fridays, May 5 – October 20
Fremont Street Eats $
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Food trucks and community fun!
Fremont Downtown Event Center
3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont
(510) 742-7510
bit.ly/2VfuSgv
Saturdays, May 27 – December 30
Divine Satsang Sabha
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Know techniques of living a virtuous, harmonious, & meaningful life
SMVS (Shri Swaminarayan Mandir)
36665 Cedar Blvd, Newark
(650) 585-5325
bit.ly/4380OGV
First Monday, June 5 – December 4
Teen Junk Journaling Workshop
5:45 pm – 6:45 pm
Learn the basics of junk journaling and start your own journal!
Hayward Public Library
888 C St., Hayward
(510) 293-8685
rb.gy/igtdy emrys
holmes@hayward-ca.gov
Wednesday, June 13 – September 27
Little Listeners Storytime
11:00 am – 11:45 am
Storytime for preschoolers parent presence required
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
rb.gy/9lrtx
sanlorenzo@aclibrary.org
Wednesday, June 14 – December 27
Little Bookworms Storytime
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Come read, sing, and be silly with us
Cherryland Community Center
278 Hampton Road, Hayward
(510) 626-8522
rb.gy/5nlam
sanlorenzo@aclibrary.org
Tuesdays, July 11 – September 5
LEGO® Time
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Use your imagination and engineering skills to create your own LEGO® designs.
Centerville library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
rb.gy/cpnae
Tuesdays, July 18 – November 28
Baby Bouncers Lapsit
11:30 am – 12:00 pm
A baby and caregivers program including nursery rhymes, lap bounce, body rhymes, songs, & picture books.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
rb.gy/lwm72
Tuesdays, July 18 – September 5
LEGO® Time
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Use your imagination and engineering skills to create your own LEGO® designs.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
rb.gy/107pa
Wednesdays, July 19 – November 29
ESL Conversation Club
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Improve your English skills and learn about other cultures.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
rb.gy/tszda
dphillips@sccl.org
First and Third Wednesdays, August 2 – December 20
Golden Gatherings
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Gathering of the elders in golden years for casual conversations and calm, self- guided activities.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
rb.gy/h1xtb
sanlorenzo@aclibrary.org
First Saturdays, August 5 – December 2
Music Hour at the Library
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm
An hour of music by local musicians.
(510) 284-0685
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
shorturl.at/npY26
Thursday – Saturday, August 10 – October 7
53rd Annual Virtual and In-Person Textile Exhibition.
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Olive Hyde Art Gallery
123 Washington Blvd., Fremont
(510) 791-4357
is.gd/IUUSZT
First and Third Thursday, August 17 – October 19
Homeschool Preteen Social Hour R
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Board games and crafts with other homeschoolers
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
t.ly/Q8fjY
Registration opens at 12 pm
Friday, September 1 – September 16
Registration for Literacy Enrichment Program
10:00 am
One -on-one tutoring for struggling readers from grade 4 and up.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
t.ly/fpkJR
Deadline September 16 or until it is full.
Thursday – Saturday, September 1 – September 30
2nd Annual Tiny Art Show Artwork Display
During library hours.
Art Reception: September 10, Sunday: 1 pm – 2 pm
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
rb.gy/if35y
Monday – Friday, September 4 – October 26
“Climate Change – RE-Imagined” Sun Gallery Members Exhibition
9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Art Reception: Friday, September 8, 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Hayward City Hall
777 B St., Hayward, John O'Lague Galleria
(510) 583-4000
haywardartscouncil.org
hac@haywardartscouncil.org
Tuesdays, September 5 – December 19
Music and Storytime
11:00 am – 11:45 am
Story, music, and movement with children.
Cherryland Community Center
278 Hampton Road, Hayward
(510) 626-8522
t.ly/M2lnv
First and Third Wednesdays, September 6 – November 29
Stories & Crafts with Ms. Jennifer
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Join for stories, songs, and craft. Ages 2-5.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
t.ly/6ZiXJ
newarklibrary@aclibrary.org
First Wednesday, September 6 – December 4
The Literary Corner: A Fiction Book Club
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
September's book selection is Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson.
Hayward Public Library
888 C St., Hayward
(510) 293-8685
t.ly/RF8OL
First Thursday, September 7 – December 7
Connections Through Music (Special Needs Friendly) R
4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Inclusive musical experience to children of all abilities!
Session 1: 4:15 PM – 4:45 pm, ages (1-5)
Session 2: 5:00 PM – 5:30 pm, ages (5-14)
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Tickets will be handed 15 min prior the event.
Friday – Sunday, September 8 – September 17
Pride & Prejudice R$
7:00 pm
Enjoy the timeless love story of Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy, presented in a relatable and fresh new way.
Heirloom East Bay
9990 Crow Canyon Rd., Castro Valley
(669) 287-5743
plethos.org
Saturdays, September 9 – September 30
Yoga with Sejal R$
9:30 am – 10:30 am
Become refreshed and renewed in the magic of yoga.
Local Ecology and Agriculture Fremont (LEAF) Center
36501 Niles Blvd., Fremont
t.ly/mhWew
Mondays and Tuesdays, September 11 – October 9
Modern Brush Pen Calligraphy
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Learn to write beautifully and cover the basis of using, holding, and writing with brush pens.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
issuu.com/hsdept
Mondays, September 11 – September 25
Lego Club
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Use your creativity and engineering skills to free build your imagination.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
rb.gy/081fh
Tuesday, September 12 – September 26
Microsoft Windows Class
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Learn to use your windows-based computer and software to access the internet, check e-mails, and more.
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
issuu.com/hsdept
Upcoming Events:
Tuesday, September 5
Let's Art Together – Neurographies and Watercolor R
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
An evening of art to relax promotes a feeling of satisfaction, pleasure, and accomplishment, and leaves one feeling motivated.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
t.ly/JpFa6
Registration starts from Tuesday, Aug 29
Thursday, September 7
Elevate Your Public Speaking
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Open House is dedicated to enhancing your public speaking skills and boosting your confidence on stage.
F.A.T (Faithful Audacious Teachable) Club
6320 Dairy Ave., Newark
vppr@fattm.org, officers@fattm.org
Thursday, September 7
Where Your Water Comes From?
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Learn about the sources of water, ways to conserve it, impact of floods and drought in the eco system, and more!
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
htt.ly/dx_Uv
unioncitylibrary@aclibrary.org
Thursday, September 7
Protecting your home equity
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Presentation on common financial issues related to home ownership and aging, mortgages and more.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
t.ly/KHnb-
Thursday, September 7
Crafts Around the World: Mid-Autumn Festival R
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival with fun activities and mooncakes.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
t.ly/SiwIc
Thursday, September 7
Intuitive Cooking – Mexican Fiesta
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Join this class to stimulate your creativity through food
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7540
issuu.com/hsdept
Thursday, September 7
V.I.P.- Volunteer In Parks – Japanese Garden R
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Work includes litter pick up, pulling weeds, spreading mulch and more. Tools will be provided.
Japanese Gardens
22373 N 3rd St., Hayward
(510) 881-6700
tinyurl.com/HARDvip
volunteer@haywardrec.org
Thursday – Sunday, September 7 – September 10
Friends of the Milpitas Library Big Fall Book Sale
10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Thursday: 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm (member only night)
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
t.ly/tXITH
Friday, September 8
Hayward Is Home, Part 1: Hidden Garden R
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
A community conversation about the historic Shibata family garden and tea house.
Hayward Public Library
888 C St., Hayward
(510) 293-8685
t.ly/ptc_C
Registration for this event will close on September 8, 2023 @ 3 pm.
Saturday, September 9
Family Nature Adventure $R
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Take a deep look into a different aspect of the redwood forest and enjoy the hands-on workshop
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
chabotspace.org/events/events-listing/
Saturday, September 9
Visit McConaghy House
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Visit this 1888 Victorian era farmhouse, with self-guided tours
McConaghy House
18701 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
(510) 581-0223
haywardareahistory.org/calendar
Saturday, September 9
Screening of “Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm” (1917) filmed in Pleasanton $R
7:30 pm
Preceded by: The New York Hat (1912) and The Ballad of Fultah Fisher’s Boarding House (1922)
Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum
37417 Niles Blvd., Fremont
(510) 494-1411
rb.gy/x1lba
Saturday – Sunday, September 9 – September 10
Hike & Sip $R
6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Moderate interpretive hike with some hills (90-120 minutes)
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
chabotspace.org/events/events-listing/
Advance reservation encouraged.
Saturday, September 9
The Making of Boba
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Bubble tea (boba tea) making with teens.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
t.ly/TDZ0I
Saturday, September 9
Annual Dahlia Show
9:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Various colors, sizes, and shapes of amazing dahlia flowers on the show.
San Leandro Library, Karp Room
300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro
(510) 577-3970
beverlydahlstedt@sbcglobal.net
Saturday, September 9
Taste of Summer: Mission San Jose Street Festival
11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Food, vendors, beverages, entertainment, and more!
At Ellsworth St. and Washington Blvd.
Mission San Jose, Fremont
msjchamber.org/taste-of-summer
info@msjchamber.org
Saturday – Sunday, September 9 – September 10
Door Open California 2023 $R
Get access to more than 70 unique and fascinating places in all corners of the state in one weekend.
t.ly/nhRw0, t.ly/-JDQg
Visit website for details
Sunday, September 10
Free household hazardous waste drop-off Event
9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Waste drop-off including e-waste, meds and mattresses
Union City
rb.gy/zszos
Registration required for complete address
Sunday, September 10
Family Friendly Matinee – improv comedy show $R
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Series of improvised games and scenes based on audience suggestions.
Made Up Theatre
4000 Bay St. suite B., Fremont
(510) 573-3633
madeuptheatre.com
Sunday, September 10
Fall Colors Stroll
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Discover the colors of Sunol while strolling around.
Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3245
rb.gy/lfvgh
Parking fee applies
Sunday, September 10
A Tribute to Blanche Payson- Our feature player $R
3:00 pm
Followed by short: Dogs is Dogs (1931), Below Zero (1930), Red Noses (1932), and Helpmates (1933)
Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum
37417 Niles Blvd., Fremont
(510) 494-1411
t.ly/UBm4m
Sunday, September 10
Herbal Medicine $R
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Make practical medicines using the herbs.
LEAF CR Stone Garden
55 Mowry Ave., Fremont
t.ly/mhWew
Sunday, September 10
Suburbia & Beyond with Author Bill Owens
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Book discussion and author meet.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
rb.gy/1gzll
Sunday, September 10
Berry Picking
10:30 am – 11:30 am
Bring your own basket and gather blackberries to take home.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757
rb.gy/bti2b
Admission fee applies
Sunday, September 10
Taffy Pull
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Join us for fun and make some chewy treats.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757
rb.gy/bti2b
Admission fee applies.
Sunday, September 10
Nature Stories: Fall Colors
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Reading a nature-themed storybook followed by activity or craft.
Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3245
rb.gy/lfvgh
Parking fee applies.
Monday and Tuesday, September 11 – September 12
Ride on Tri-City: Travel Training Workshop R
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Join a free travel training workshop to learn how to plan trips, pay fares with clipper card, transfer between bus and Bart and more.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 574-2053
issuu.com/hsdept
Email or call to register
Tuesday, September 12
Suicide Prevention Webinar: Where are we now? R
10:00 am – 11:30 am
The workshop focuses on suicide prevention efforts, suicide risk post pandemic, mental health and more.
Zoom link: rb.gy/w13hb
Tuesday, September 12
AWC Cinema: The Fablemans R
1:30 pm – 4:00 pm
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
issuu.com/hsdept
Register by mail or call. (510) 790-6602
Tuesday, September 12
Kick off potluck and information meeting
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Introduction of the new season and auditions for those wanting to join the Mission Peak Chamber Singers.
Irvington Pesbyterian Church
4181 Irvington Ave, Fremont
(510) 657-3133
coriebrowu@gmail.com, shoil2000@yahoo.com