A Place of Dignity
Recently I read in the newspaper that the City of Fremont had opened the city’s teen center every night in the wintertime for homeless men, women, and children to have a warm place to sleep. I was moved by this act that could make a huge difference in the lives of numerous individuals who had come upon hard times. I decided to go by and donate a few sweatshirts and jackets that may find use. I didn’t really know what to expect, but what I discovered was a heartwarming scene that reminded me that the Lord is still present in the hearts and minds of our citizens.
The first word that came to mine as I entered the center was dignity; a clean and bright setting with gentle and caring volunteers of various ages assisting as needed with respect and sincerity. This wasn’t a room full of homeless people, but a room full of people; some young, some old, some tired, some ill, but all enjoying a warm meal, a dry roof, and love from complete strangers who treated all with honor and kindness.
I was truly moved and only hope that the light of concern for our fellow man continues to shine brightly and warmly all throughout the year!
James Francis McGee
Teacher, Holy Spirit School
Volunteers needed for Homeless Count
Submitted by City of Fremont
The County of Alameda conducts a homeless count biennially to retain and improve the county’s funding for homeless services and meet federal data reporting requirements. It also increases community understanding of homelessness, and informs strategic, program, and policy planning. The next countywide homeless count is set Wednesday, January 30. The City of Fremont will lead the coordination effort in the South County and is looking for volunteers to participate in the event. Online training is available for volunteers who will work alongside homeless guides to count the number of homeless individuals in South County. The deployment center location is Fremont Fire Department Training Classroom. For questions or to sign up to volunteer for the count, visit www.everyonehome.org/Everyone-Counts.
Homeless Count 2019
Wednesday, Jan 30
5 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Fremont Fire Department Training Classroom
3300 Capitol Ave, Building A (rear entrance), Fremont
www.everyonehome.org/Everyone-Counts
Letter to the Editor
Reckless development must be stopped
During the last several years, I have walked through the ashes of three major fires, each of which wrought enormous damage. The Ghost Ship fire tragically killed 36 people in 2016. I saw blackened home foundations in Santa Rosa in 2017, and last year the complete destruction of Paradise, CA.
Here in Fremont, a risky 40-acre development is proposed for Niles Canyon. The site of a former brick factory is flanked between the steep hills of Vargas Plateau Regional Park and Alameda Creek. Access is over a mile from Mission Boulevard, through a narrow road.
FEMA [Federal Emergency Management Agency] warns against development in the urban wildland interface, “A wildfire at the bottom of a vegetated canyon can lead to extremely hazardous conditions upslope. . .An entire canyon can pre-heat from rising hot air and gases and explode in flames, creating a firestorm.” FEMA’s guidance is simple: “Avoid selecting a construction site along a gully or in a narrow canyon.”
We have to do better. Having walked through the remains of hundreds of structures after the wildfires, I am convinced that protecting lives must be our highest priority. The city of Fremont should work with the developer attempting to build homes in Niles Canyon to find a responsible path and avoid reckless development in the narrow canyon.
- yragui
Mission Peak Conservancy
Chabot College Music Department receives recognition
Submitted by Guisselle Nunez
Chabot College's Music Department recently became the first California community college to receive accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), the primary accrediting body for music schools across the U.S.
“Accreditation provides our students with opportunities to transfer to schools that will allow them access to careers in the arts that would otherwise not be available to them,” said Chabot College's Dean of Arts, Media and Communications Deonne Kunkel-Wu. “We are the first community college in California to be accredited by NASM and one of only approximately 30 in the nation. This recognition affirms that our students can create and succeed in competitive fields that have traditionally been restricted to those closest to opportunity.”
To receive accreditation, representatives from NASM sat in on classes, listened to students perform individually and in groups and conducted interviews. Extensive self-studies were also included as was the need for Chabot to follow reports addressing accreditation standards focused on students’ access and success, faculty excellence, institutional effectiveness, budget and planning, outcomes assessment, facilities and record keeping. Out of the 189 schools that applied for accreditation only three including Chabot were given the honor.
‘Chinese Roots’ exhibit explores lives and impact of Chinese immigrants
Submitted by Janet Barton and Julie Cain
The exhibit “Chinese Roots: Sketches of Life in the Washington Township” opened January 12 at the Fremont Main Library. The exhibit focuses on the Chinese immigrants who helped build our local community, and covers the historical towns that are now Fremont, Newark, and Union City from the Gold Rush to World War II.
After gold was discovered in California in 1848, thousands of people from all over the world flocked to California, including men from China. Locked out of the gold fields for the most part due to racism, many Chinese survived by filling in the gaps in Gold Rush society – working as cooks, laundry men and various other occupations.
Chinese workers were instrumental in building the West’s railways. On May 10, 1869 the ceremonial Golden Spike was driven in Promontory, Utah, and connected the eastern U.S. with the West. After the Utah ceremony, work continued in our Alameda Canyon, Livermore Valley, and onward to the San Joaquin River to finish the connection. On September 6, 1869, the first through train ran from Stockton to Alameda.
The Chinese in California faced virulent racism in the form of repressive legislation such as the 1882 Exclusion Act, the 1888 Scott Act, and the 1892 Geary Act. However, many who came here succeeded in making a better life for themselves, for their family back in China, for their families here, and for their descendants.
In the Washington Township, Chinese men worked as laborers, cooks, merchants, nursery workers, farmers, factory workers and railroad workers. They contributed to the local economy and made possible the growth of the sugar, vegetable, fruit, nursery, and winery industries.
The photographs, records, and artifacts in this exhibit show how this one group of immigrants, among many groups, make up our past. Materials come from our local museums, libraries, and families who are descendants of the early Chinese pioneers. Records are often mere entries in nursery ledgers, in the ranch records of labor hired for harvesting fruit, in the census records, or in the smiles of winery workers at a China Camp. Other records are colorful personal accounts, written about growing up in the Washington Township – hunting and fishing, high school sports and hijinks, and endless farm work.
Photos and artifacts were generously loaned by Mission Peak Heritage Foundation, the Roeding Archives at the California Nursery Historical Park, the Museum of Local History, and the Fong family descendants.
The Alameda County Library is sponsoring speakers who will give us an in-depth look at topics related to our exhibit:
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Conquering Time and Space: How Chinese Labor Helped the United States Become A Transcontinental Nation
Monday, Jan 28
7 p.m.
Thousands of unknown Chinese workers played a vital role in building America’s first transcontinental railroad across a tremendous mountain range. Historic interpreter and park director for the California Stare Parks in Sacramento, Phil Sexton will talk about the construction of the railroad and its profound effects on both the nation and California.
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Archaeology at Stanford’s Arboretum Chinese Houses
Monday, Feb 11
7 p.m.
Christopher B. Lowman will speak about how an excavation at Stanford University reveals the lives of early Chinese immigrants and their relationships with other Bay Area communities and with China. Lowman is a graduate student at UC Berkeley and works on archeological excavations and museum research.
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Family Legacies – Legend and Verification
Saturday, Feb 23
10:30 a.m.
Jeanie Low, author of “China Connection: Finding Ancestral Roots for Chinese in America,” will speak about uncovering family history through immigration, naturalization, mortuary, gravestones, census, and other records.
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“Chinese Roots” was created by the “Chinese History Project,” a new subcommittee of the Washington Township Museum of Local History. The group was formed to discover and highlight these little-known histories within our area. The exhibit was a joint effort of Janet Barton, Julie Cain, and Jill Fong-Au.
For more on the “Chinese History Project” at the Museum of Local History or to learn how you can get involved, contact Janet Barton at chinese.history@museumoflocalhistory.org, visit https://museumoflocalhistory.org/resources/special-projects/ and https://www.facebook.com/museumoflocalhistory/
Chinese Roots: Sketches of Life in the Washington Township
Saturday, Jan 12 – Sunday, Mar 10
Library open hours
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont
(510) 745-1400
www.aclibrary.org/fremont
chinese.history@museumoflocalhistory.org
https://museumoflocalhistory.org/resources/special-projects/
Cougars Report
Submitted by Timothy Hess
Boys Soccer:
Newark Memorial’s boys’ varsity soccer team beat the Livermore Cowboys 1-0 on Saturday, January 12 in a non-league contest. The winning goal was scored by junior Jesse Esparza. In junior varsity action, the Cougars prevailed 6-0.
Girls Wrestling:
The Newark Memorial Lady Cougar Wrestling Team placed 5th out of 75 teams at the Tokay HS Girls Wrestling Tournament, January 12, 2019. Ariana Pereira (172) placed second, Sierra Van Rossem (152) was third, Isabela Anthony (191) was fourth, Ezra Vavao (145) and Analicia Parish (123) were fifth.
Boys Wrestling:
The Cougar Wrestling team placed 6th as a team at the San Ramon Invitational, January 12th. The Cougars were led by Paul Malu. He was 3-0 with three pins on the day and took first place. Taka Barberi and Jose Rodriguez were second, Brandon Moriguchi and Chance Hefter third, and Justin Tran fourth.
Congratulations to all the Cougar athletes!
Panel discussion shares insights from making ‘Cultures in Transition’
Submitted by PhotoCentral
Photos by Oliver Klink
Oliver Klink, Geir Jordahl, and Kate Jordahl will discuss the making of “Cultures in Transition,” the current exhibit at PhotoCentral, in a special panel discussion on Saturday, January 26.
“Cultures in Transition: Photographs by Oliver Klink” celebrates the cultures of Asia including Bhutan, Myanmar, China, Mongolia, and India. The exhibition coincides with the book release of “Cultures in Transition: Spirit – Heart – Soul.” The book features essays by Anne Wilkes Tuckers, Peter Finke, and Geir Jordahl as well as stories about the images by the photographer.
When creating a book and exhibition, you want your book to stand out and tell your story. The collaboration of photographer, editor, and designer creates the book. Klink and the Jordahls will share their stories and insights from this journey. Join us for a very engaging conversation!
The exhibit “Cultures in Transition” will continue through Friday, February 15. For more information, visit http://photocentral.org/ or www.culturesintransition.com.
Panel Discussion: The Making of Cultures in Transition
Saturday, Jan 26
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
www.facebook.com/events/128975344689864/
Cultures in Transition: Photographs by Oliver Klink
Saturday, Dec 15 – Friday, Feb 15
Upstairs gallery Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Downstairs gallery Monday: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. Tuesday & Thursday: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
PhotoCentral
1099 E St, Hayward
(510) 881-6721
www.culturesintransition.com
Stylish, yet easy-to-maintain showers
By Anna Jacoby
“How can I have a bathroom that’s beautiful but still easy to clean?” This question comes up frequently when I speak with clients about their bath projects. The good news is that there are solutions!
By far, the most popular surface for shower walls is tile. In the world of tile there are literally thousands of options – from natural stone, to ceramic, to glass, to porcelain. Regardless of the look you are aiming for, there is a tile out there that will fit the bill. However, some tiles are more high maintenance than others. One example is marble. Marble tile is gorgeous, and I wouldn’t tell you to never use it in a bathroom, but if you do, you need to be aware that it needs to be sealed periodically and can stain. Fortunately, there are some high-quality porcelain tiles that look very much like real marble. No sealing required, and no staining either.
With any tile, it’s really the grout that needs the most attention. To minimize the amount of grout in the shower, select large tiles – 12” x 24” tiles are a very popular size – and install them using the smallest grout line possible. Many tiles now are coming in very large sizes – like 36” wavy tiles shown in one of the photos – are now available. Using large tiles gives the shower walls a very sleek look and can make a small shower look larger. The large tile is almost like using a solid surface material, which I will discuss shortly.
Plan to seal your grout periodically; in a heavily-used bath, once a year is advisable. In occasional-use baths, every few years is probably enough. Probably the best thing to do, however, is what I tell my clients all the time: Make friends with the squeegee! Keeping water from sitting too long on the tile or the grout makes all the difference. Take 60 seconds after each shower and use that squeegee on the walls (don’t forget the shower doors!) I’m not kidding when I say that this step will save you lots of cleaning time.
One design trick I’ve started using in some of my bath projects is using tiles on the large wall of the shower only, and solid surface material on the two side walls. This is a great idea from both a stylistic perspective and a cleaning perspective. In the photo, for example, the only tiles used are the large navy-blue ones on the center wall. The two side walls are full-height white solid quartz slab. The matching navy-blue grout lines are minimal in size (1/8”) and easy to clean. The dark tiles make a bold statement in the room, while the gleaming white quartz keeps the space looking light and bright.
Another option, if you want no grout at all, is to use quartz slabs on all the walls of the shower. Quartz is nonporous, which means no sealing and no staining. And with the myriad choices available, you are sure to find a look you like. More and more beautiful colors and patterns being introduced all the time, which means you can have walls with beautiful granite-like patterns, as in the photo, or walls resembling concrete, marble, and limestone. For folks wanting a bold punch of color, quartz also comes in very vibrant hues like fire engine red, cobalt blue, and lime green. For one wall or all the walls, using solid surface materials in the shower will increase style and reduce cleaning time.
Diabetes self-management classes set
Submitted by Jennifer Tibbetts
Registration is under way for a seven-week series of free diabetes self-management classes sponsored by the Alameda County Public Health Department’s Diabetes Program. Classes will meet Wednesdays, February 6 through March 20 at the Kenneth C. Aitken Senior Center, Castro Valley.
Participants in the program will learn the seven self-care behaviors:
- Healthy eating
- Physical activity
- Monitoring blood glucose
- Taking prescribed medications
- Solving problems in unusual situations
- Reducing the risk of complications
- Coping with stress.
Classes are open to adults 18 and older who are diagnosed with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes and are limited to 15 students. To register, or ask questions about the classes, call (510) 881-6738.
Diabetes Self-Management Classes
Wednesdays, Feb 6 – Mar 20
10 a.m. – 12 noon
Kenneth Aitken Senior Center
17800 Redwood Rd, Castro Valley
(510) 881-6738
Free; advance registration required
Art from Heart
Submitted by Carol Manasse Hamilton
Dove Gallery is opening a new exhibit “Art from the Heart,” displaying artworks inspired by meaningful and heartfelt emotions, from Sunday, January 27 to Saturday, March 23. A Grand Opening will be held for the public on January 27. San Jose artist Laurie Barna has contributed several works including a watercolor titled “The Heart of Liberty.” Union City artist Dee Bueno is displaying oil pastel drawings – her depiction of a young girl holding an ornament at Christmas was created from a cherished memory. Milpitas artist Amrutha Josyula is exhibiting an acrylic painting of lovebirds in a tree along with several other springtime depictions. For more information about the exhibit and gallery hours, call Carol Manasse Hamilton, assistant curator, at (408) 464-5011 or email dove@parkvictoria.org.
Art from Heart exhibit
Sunday, Jan 27 – Saturday, March 23
Grand Opening: Sunday, Jan 27
2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Dove Gallery
875 S. Park Victoria Dr, Milpitas
(408) 464-5011
Parking on-site
Park It
by Ned MacKay
It’s time again for closure of the Castle Rock Formations that overlook Diablo Foothills Regional Park in Walnut Creek, to protect the resident peregrine falcons during their mating season. The rocks will be off limits to human visitors from February 1 to July 31, so the birds can nest, lay eggs, fledge the young and produce another generation of peregrines.
The Castle Rock formation is in Mt. Diablo State Park, but protecting the birds is in partnership with the East Bay Regional Park District. Visitors are excluded from the entire area across Pine Creek from the Old Stage Road Trail. Signs are posted at all trailheads; volunteer birdwatchers alert authorities to intruders. Trespassing can lead to a citation and expensive fine. Peregrine falcons are amazing birds. About the size of crows, they prey mostly on smaller birds, but also mammals and reptiles. A peregrine can dive at up to 200 miles per hour, making it the fastest animal in the world.
Castle Rock is one of only three active peregrine territories in the Mt. Diablo area, and a nesting pair of falcons lives there. Peregrines are no longer on the federal endangered species list. However, the birds are still protected under the state’s migratory bird act. So, please abide by the closure and don’t climb up into the Castle Rocks during the peregrines’ nesting period. Give these beautiful birds a chance to reproduce.
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Speaking of birds, especially raptors, naturalist Mike Moran leads a program on the last Thursday of each month to count the population of hawks, falcons and eagles at regional parks in east Contra Costa. No experience is necessary; Mike teaches how to identify the various birds.
The next session is from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, January 31 at Big Break Regional Shoreline on Big Break Road in Oakley. The program is free, but registration is required. To register, call (888) 327-2757, select option 2, and refer to program number 23912.
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Mining and geology are the themes of a program from 10 a.m. to 12 noon Sunday, January 27 at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch. Naturalist Eddie Willis will lead a hike for ages 8 and older along two steep, mud-free miles of the park’s Chaparral Loop Trail to discover the ancient and modern history of the park.
Meet Eddie in the parking lot at the end of Somersville Road, 3½ miles south of Highway 4. For information, call (888) 327-2757, ext. 2750.
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George Miller Trail is a mud-free pathway at Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline between Martinez and Port Costa. It’s a paved trail open to hikers, cyclists and equestrians, but closed to motor vehicles except for park rangers and emergency traffic. There are beautiful panoramic views of Carquinez Strait and the town of Benicia across the way. Naturalist Virginia Delgado will lead an easy walk from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday, January 26 for ages 5 and up. The trail is wheelchair accessible.
Meet at the parking lot on the Port Costa side. Take the McEwen Road exit from Hwy 4. Follow McEwen Road to the bottom of the hill, turn right on Carquinez Scenic Drive, and proceed to the lot and the gate barring farther vehicle traffic. For information, call (888) 327-2757, ext. 2750.
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At Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley, there’s a nature ramble from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday in January with naturalist “Trail Gail” Broesder. Meet Gail at the Environmental Education Center for an easy walk to Jewel Lake in search of wildlife.
The center is at the north end of Tilden’s Central Park Drive. Call (510) 544-2233.
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Family Nature Fun is in session from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday at Crab Cove Visitor Center in Alameda. The theme is “Move It!” – how animals hop, crawl, fly and run to survive for January 26 and January 27.
Crab Cove is at 1252 McKay Ave. off Alameda’s Central Avenue. Call (510) 544-3187.
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“Sleep in and take a hike” is the plan for a program from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, January 27 with naturalist Francis Mendoza at Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont.
It’s an easy, 2½ -mile hike around the hills for ages 15 and older. Meet Francis at the visitor center, wear layers and bring water. The event will be cancelled if it rains heavily.
Coyote Hills is at the end of Patterson Ranch Road off Paseo Padre Parkway. The program is free; there’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. Call (510) 544-3220.
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This is just a sampler. There are lots of other programs on the calendar as January turns into February. Check out the Park District website, www.ebparks.org.
Learn to turn gardens into landscapes
Submitted by Eden Garden Club
The Eden Garden Club invites the public for its monthly meeting on Monday, January 28. The speaker will be Tommy Fenster, a staff member of StopWaste of Alameda County, who will speak on compost and the carbon farming connection. Attendees will learn how to turn gardens into bay-friendly landscapes and mini carbon farms. Fenster will also discuss principles and management methods applicable to both, decorative and edible gardens. To learn more about the free event, call (510) 209-7366.
Eden Garden Club Meeting
Monday, Jan 28
9:30 a.m.
Moose Lodge 20835
Rutledge Rd, Castro Valley
(510) 209-7366
Editorial
Let’s be fair
One of the favorite pastimes of government is to create rules that limit the private sector while exempting themselves from the same restrictions. Often laws and regulations, ostensibly for the safety and guidance necessary for the average citizen, carry exemptions for the largest employer and organization of them all… government. The current situation at the national level is a prime example of such double dealing. What company would be allowed to demand that its employees work with just a promise to pay them at some unspecified time in the future? An argument can be made that our collective lives and security are at stake and therefore, in this instance, normal rules do not apply.
In 1981, air traffic controllers decided to test the system by calling a strike, protesting their pay and workweek. On August 5, 1981, President Ronald Reagan began firing 11,359 air-traffic controllers who defied his order to return to work. The president of the Professional Air-Traffic Controllers Association (PATCO), was ordered to pay $1,000 a day in fines. Approximately 7,000 flights were cancelled and those fired were banned from reinstatement. The uprising was crushed; a theoretical exchange of modest pay for job security and above average benefits was maintained. Although many rank and file government employees have remained at the low end of the pay scale, a few have reaped a bountiful harvest of high salaries and benefits. How times have changed!
It appears that government has a special place in the work environment. It makes rules for others but, when inconvenient, expensive or mystifying for those subjugated to their enforcement, has a tendency to remove itself from obligation. This happens at all levels, even at the local level. An example of this was on display as the Fremont City Council wrestled with a minimum wage ordinance that would diverge from a State law that will increase the current $11/hour for “small employers” (less than 26 employees) or $12/hour for “large employers” in increments to reach a maximum of $15/hour in 2023, then increase by the Consumer Price Index thereafter. Sixteen Bay Area cities have already adopted local ordinances to expedite minimum wage increases.
There are few, if any, who would argue that the wages proposed are anywhere near a living wage in the Bay Area. However, some employees do not totally support families or themselves through their employment. Unfortunately, many employees attempt to do just that. When addressing this issue, a host of factors confront employers faced with the reality of economic conditions even without government regulation. Solving the dire situation of those at the lower end of the pay scale is a complex and fundamental problem for a severely unbalanced fiscal system that relies heavily on technological illusion, abstractions and exorbitant financial rewards. Unrealistic minimum wage ordinances will not solve this problem.
Within the argument for a minimum wage ordinance, Fremont was forced to face its own vulnerabilities. A proposed exemption for youth working for the City or non-profit organizations was examined. What effect would an increase for employees (those working 2 hours per week or more) have on hiring summer employees, interns, paid volunteers, after school programs? Non-profit groups, included in the proposed exemption count on altruistic considerations to supplement low wages but what about the City? Arguments of fiscal impacts were made to bolster the case for an exemption, but were rejected by the Council – as they should be. If the private sector is expected to follow such regulations, it seems only fair that the public sector bear the burden as well.
Save the date for An Elegant Affaire
Submitted by Shirley Sisk
The League of Volunteers (LOV) is holding the 28th annual “An Elegant Affaire” on Friday, February 8 at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Newark. The chef will be serving up a gourmet dining experience for the benefit of LOV’s popular Arts in Schools Program, which provides in-school multi-cultural performing arts assemblies to the children of Fremont, Newark, and Union City.
The event offers fantastic food, fine wine, and fun including a champagne cocktail hour with entertainment by Salvador Vazquez on Mexican harp, beer tasting courtesy of DasBrew, live and silent auctions, and a very special drawing. Master of Ceremonies for the evening will be Mayor Emeritus Dave Smith.
Tickets are $85 per person or $750 for a table of 10 with table sign. Reservations are limited to 150. For further information or to purchase tickets, call (510) 793-5683 or visit www.lov.org.
An Elegant Affaire
Friday, Feb 8
DoubleTree by Hilton
39900 Balentine Dr, Newark
(510) 793-5683
Tickets: $85, $750 for table of 10
Governor Newsom Announces Office of the First Partner
Submitted by Governor’s Press Office
Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom announced January 18, 2019, the creation of the Office of the First Partner within the Governor’s executive team. The First Partner and her team will focus on lifting up women and their families, breaking down barriers for our youth, and furthering the cause of gender equity in California.
“I have always been so proud of Jennifer’s important work shifting cultural norms and advancing the cause of gender equality across our society. I am excited that she will focus her efforts and expertise on our California communities, and help ensure that California continues to lead on issues of equality,” said Governor Newsom.
“It is the honor of a lifetime to serve the people of California as First Partner, and I am excited to use this platform to continue advocating for gender equality across our great state. The work of the Office of the First Partner will be about inclusivity, breaking down old stereotypes, and forging a new more equitable path forward,” said First Partner Newsom.
As part of the creation of the Office of the First Partner, the Governor announced the appointment of two senior public servants to lead the office’s efforts.
Becky Beland McNaught, 32, of Sacramento, has been appointed Chief of Staff in the Office of the First Partner. McNaught previously served as the Democratic Counsel for the U.S. Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee and was the lead author of the committee's 2017 minority staff report “Tackling the Gender Gap: What Women Entrepreneurs Need to Thrive.” She was also the Counsel to U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, whom she advised on judiciary, immigration, civil rights, and other policy issues. McNaught was a long-time aide to Maria Shriver and served as the deputy managing editor of The Shriver Report and the deputy development director of Shriver's Women's Conference. McNaught earned an undergraduate degree from New York University and a Juris Doctor degree from American University's Washington College of Law. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $145,000. McNaught is a Democrat.
Hannah Milgrom, 28, of San Francisco, has been appointed Director of Communications in the Office of the First Partner. Milgrom most recently served as Surrogate Director on the Newsom for Governor Campaign, where she managed all public appearances and communications for First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. Milgrom has worked for First Partner Newsom in several capacities, including as her longtime speechwriter and as her Communications Manager at The Representation Project. She also worked previously as a public policy aide at Jewish Family Service of Los Angeles. Milgrom earned an undergraduate degree from the University of California, Berkeley. This position does not require Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100,000. Milgrom is a Democrat.
USDA: Food stamps will be funded through February
By Juliet Linderman
Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP), Jan 08 – The Trump administration says benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as food stamps, will be funded through February should the government shutdown continue.
Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue is asking states to issue the February benefits on or before Jan. 20 so that they can be paid to the nearly 40 million Americans in the program. SNAP is already fully funded for January.
The USDA said it can fund SNAP through February thanks to the short-term funding bill that ran out on Dec. 22. That bill included a provision giving federal agencies the authority to make obligated payments to support certain programs for 30 days after its expiration date.
Brandon Lipps, an acting deputy undersecretary, said other USDA programs will also be funded through February, including school lunches, food distribution programs on Indian reservations and child nutrition programs. The latter includes WIC, which provides nutritional assistance to pregnant women, mothers and babies.
Under the provision, the SNAP program will operate as it normally does and without any lapse in service, but with an earlier deadline for states to request benefits through a process called early issuance. That process is typically used during natural disasters, Lipps said, enabling states anticipating hurricanes or other weather events to distribute monthly benefits ahead of time.
Lipps said the USDA is sending letters to all state agencies to explain the process and will issue a blanket waiver of department regulations to allow for the early issuance.
“We know this is a time of great uncertainty, and no doubt anxiety for people who rely on SNAP and are dealing with tough times,” Lipps said. “I hope it's reassuring for us to make clear today that we're committed to maintaining service to SNAP clients without interruption to the extent possible under the law.”
The SNAP program will cost roughly $4.8 billion for February, and those funds have already been appropriated through the expired spending bill. But if the shutdown lasts until March, the USDA could be forced to dip into its reserves to help fund the program, and its $3 billion SNAP contingency fund won't cover a full month of benefits.
Perdue is a strong proponent of scaling back the SNAP program, and publicly supported a GOP House measure to strengthen work requirements for food stamp recipients. The measure garnered no support in the Senate and didn't make it into the final farm bill, which President Donald Trump signed into law in December.
The Trump administration has announced its intent to try and limit SNAP use through regulation, crafting a proposal to limit the ability of states to waive the program's work requirements.
Funds available for affordable housing
Submitted by Cliff Nguyen
The City of Fremont has announced a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA), up to $25 million, for the creation of affordable housing. The funding is intended to support new construction of rental developments or substantial rehabilitation of existing market-rate developments for the purpose of creating new affordable housing. Eligible applicants include nonprofit and for-profit affordable housing developers. Qualified developers who can meet NOFA qualifications and demonstrate their ability to design, build, and manage affordable housing are encouraged to submit proposals until Friday, April 26. For more information, call Cliff Nguyen, land use initiatives manager, at (510) 284-4017, visit www.Fremont.gov/NOF A2019 or email cnguyen@fremont.gov.
Notice of Funding Availability
Application deadline: 2 p.m. Friday, April 26
(510) 284-4017
Takes from Silicon Valley East
Meet Fremont’s new community development director
Dan Schoenholz has worn many hats in his 20 years with the City of Fremont, but his latest is the community development director where he oversees the Planning, Building, Housing, Environmental Sustainability, and Code Enforcement divisions. Schoenholz sat down with us to share his 2019 priorities, what he loves most about Fremont community, and how he plans to help the city’s overall economic development goals move forward.
Q: Congratulations on being appointed as Fremont’s new community development director. While new in your role, you have had a long career in Fremont and have viewed the city through a variety of lenses in different departments. What attributes inspire you most about Fremont as a community and an organization?
A: Fremont is an incredibly diverse community – not only in the ethnic backgrounds of its residents, but also in its natural landscapes, neighborhoods, and businesses. That diversity keeps the job interesting and challenging – it’s one of the great things about working here. Another is the city organization; Fremont’s leadership and staff are top-notch.
Q: From a land use and development perspective, what projects and initiatives will you be most focused on in 2019?
A: I’ll be focused on the continued development of mixed-use neighborhoods in downtown and in the area near the Warm Springs BART Station. I’ll also focus on continuing to provide much-needed affordable housing. Additionally, I’m looking to enhance our community outreach regarding development projects and long-range plans like the Climate Action Plan update that’s just getting underway.
Q: Development, housing, and other land use issues all ultimately depend on regional collaboration, in addition to local leadership. What partnerships will be most important to you in advancing Fremont’s Community Development agenda?
A: Land use and transportation are inextricably linked, so the Community Development Department works closely with the city’s Transportation Division (in the Public Works Department) to represent the city’s interests at the regional level. Some of the regional agencies with whom we’ll continue to work closely include the Metropolitan Transportation Commission and its sister planning agency, the Association of Bay Area Governments; the Alameda County Transportation Authority; and BART.
Q: The intersection of community development and economic development is frequent and important. How do you view your role in the city’s overall economic development goals?
A: I see community development as a key player in Fremont’s economic development efforts. We can help to attract and retain businesses by providing clear guidelines regarding the permitting process and by delivering timely, easy-to-access, technically sound services to business customers. To that end, we have one staff member assigned as the “Business Ally” who is available to help permit applicants if they have questions or run into a problem. We also continue to improve our technology tools to make it easier for applicants to access our services electronically.
Q: There’s no doubt this new role will keep you busy. Where are we most likely to find you in your free time?
A: At the gym, hiking or running on one of the East Bay’s fabulous trails; or on my couch, watching the Warriors.
Fremont City Council focuses on impacts of residential development
Submitted by Cheryl Golden
The newly seated Fremont City Council held a Council Retreat on January 10 and 11 to develop a framework and protocols under which the council will operate as a whole and with city staff and to establish council priorities for the coming year. This was the first retreat scheduled since the City of Fremont converted its elections from at large voting to a district-based system during the General Municipal Election on November 6, 2018. During this past election, Fremont residents residing in Districts 1 through 4 voted on new council representatives.
Focusing on the impacts of residential development in Fremont was top of mind for the council during the Council Retreat. Slowing growth through future revisions to the General Plan and creating new guidelines regarding development will be studied and analyzed moving forward. The city will also look to implement its housing plans and focus on affordable housing. At the end of the two-day retreat, the council came to a consensus on the following priorities for city staff: housing; reduce traffic congestion; and provide support to neighborhood commercial districts. Over the next several months, city staff will go before council with a series of work sessions and study sessions to discuss options available to council on limiting residential development and how to increase affordable housing. Additionally, city staff will increase community outreach around these established priorities.
Current members of the Fremont City Council include Mayor Lily Mei; Vice Mayor Raj Salwan; Councilmember Vinnie Bacon; Councilmember Teresa Keng, District 1; Councilmember Rick Jones District 2; Councilmember Jenny Kassan, District 3; and Councilmember Yang Shao, District 4.
Workshop for family caregivers
Submitted by Frishta Sharifi
The City of Fremont invites the Tri-City public to attend Family Caregiver Support Program, a series of eight workshops providing training and education for family caregivers. Taking place every Thursday from January 24 to March 14, the FREE classes will discuss about specific caregiving challenges, stress management, available community resources, among others. To register or for details, call Frishta Sharifi at (510) 574-2035 or email at fsharifi@fremont.gov.
Schedule:
Jan 24: Caregiving 101
Jan 31: Normal Aging and Ways of Improving Memory
Feb 7: Caring for Loved Ones with Alzheimer's and Memory Problems
Feb 14: Caring for Loved ones with Parkinson's disease
Feb 21: Stress Management for Caregivers
Feb 28: Communication Strategies
March 7: Taking Care of Yourself
March 14: Caregiving and Forgiveness
Family Caregiver Education Series
Jan 24 – March 14: every Thursday
10 a.m. – 12 noon; refreshments and check-in: 9:30 a.m.
City of Fremont, HR Training Room
3300 Capitol Ave, Building B
(510) 574-2035
Pre-registration required
Fremont City Council
January 15, 2019
Announcements:
- Irvington Community Plan meeting on January 16.
- Mobility Task Force Action Plan draft public meeting on January 24 at Fremont Main Library 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.; Council work session on February 19; Council Meeting March 5.
- New website for Animal Shelter.
- Police Explorer openings for teens.
Consent Calendar:
- Reject all bids for Warm Springs Community Park arbor.
- Approve plans and award contract for Year 1 Bikeway Improvements Project to Chrisp Company in the amount of $835,448.10.
- Approve agreement for construction of private street improvements and public easements for Metro Crossing at 44960 Warm Springs Boulevard.
Ceremonial Items:
- Proclaim A National Day of Racial Healing, January 22, 2019. Liann Osborn and students of California School for the Deaf accepted the proclamation.
Public Communications:
- Public comment asking council to focus on long term goals; visit city center of San Ramon for inspiration.
- Public comment from landowner regarding homeless problem in Irvington district and lack of coordination between city departments in addressing solutions.
- Comment regarding a “Tammany Hall” culture that promotes bullying in Democratic Party politics.
Scheduled Items:
- Approve rezoning 1.19-acre site from R-1-6 Single-Family Residential to allow development of eight small-lot single-family homes (Oliveira Farm Cottages – 39392 Blacow Road.
***PASSED 6-1 (Nay, Bacon) with modification of sidewalk on both sides of private street.
- Consider appeal of Planning Commission denial to allow previously approved 171-unit rental apartment project (Palmia at Mission Falls) for Seniors to become a for-sale Condominium Project for Seniors at 47201 Mission Falls Court.
***DENIAL UPHELD 6-1 (Nay, Shao)
Other Business:
- Consider alternatives for Minimum Wage Ordinance. Council selected Two-Tier option that gives “small employers” (25 or less employees) an additional year to “catch up” to large employer schedule. As of 2022, large and small employers will follow the same schedule with increases based on regional Consumer Price Index. An exemption will be included for youth (less than 21 years old) working with nonprofit groups – after school, summer, internships, paid volunteer, job training for up to 120 days. Administration cost to be determined.
Effective July 1, 2019………Small $11.00/hr.………Large $13.50/hr.
Effective July 1, 2020………Small $13.50/hr……….Large $15.00/hr.
Effective July 1, 2021………Small $15.00/hr………..Large – based on CPI
Effective July 1, 2022 – Equal minimum wage requirements for all employers
Mayor Lily Mei Aye
Vice Mayor Raj Salwan Aye
Vinnie Bacon Aye, 1 Nay
Rick Jones Aye
Teresa Keng (District 1) Aye
Jenny Kassan (District 3) Aye
Yang Shao (District 4) Aye, 1 Nay
Fremont upgrades to state-of-the-art book sorting system
By David R. Newman
Photos courtesy of Brian Edwards
The Fremont Main Library recently unveiled a brand-new self-service check-in system that promises to improve efficiency and should have patrons smiling with its ease of use.
The new Automated Materials Handling Service (AMHS) is a computer-controlled series of sensors and conveyor belts that automatically scans and sorts books. Says Brian Edwards, Principal Librarian of the Fremont Main Library, “Before, you would have to physically clear out the bin, check it in, get it onto a cart, resort it, and then put it on the shelf. This new system will cut down our processing time by four to five days.”
This means books will be back on the shelves faster and will give staff more time to focus on customer service. And since the Fremont Branch is the main library for Alameda County, patrons throughout the system will benefit. Says Edwards, “Since we’re the main branch, we have the most circulation. We go through about 1.5 million check-ins and check-outs per year. This includes about 50 bins of books that come in every day from other libraries.”
Three new check-in windows have been installed near the entrance (two outside, one in the interior foyer). Patrons feed in their items one by one. A display lists each item scanned. Once they are done, a receipt is issued by email, text, or paper. And that’s it.
Meanwhile, inside, as books travel along mini conveyor belts, sensors scan them. They are then deposited into the appropriate trolley or interlibrary tote. Totes are used to transport material between libraries and each needs to be scanned just once to be processed, just like an Amazon order. The computer knows the contents of each tote.
What used to take hours, physically sorting through piles of books, now takes minutes. It only takes two staff members to oversee the entire operation.
In order to accommodate the new $900,000 sorting system, several changes needed to be made to the library. Cubicles were cleared out, a book sorting area was converted to a public lounge, new exterior lighting was added, and a fire door was installed. Says Edwards, “This building is 99,000 square feet and is 30 years old. We needed some upgrades, but we didn’t want to lose any public space.”
This was particularly true for the Van Doorn Room, a popular space for classes. Instead of destroying it, the architects designed a see-through tunnel that connects one of the book returns with the main sorting machine.
The energy efficient AMHS was designed by Lyngsoe Systems, a Danish company specializing in library automation. It is expandable to process a 10 percent annual growth. Lyngsoe set up the system initially and trained the staff on how to operate and clean it. There are still manual drop-off options for customers.
Fremont’s AMHS, installed in May 2018, is the third in operation in the Alameda County Library system. Castro Valley received theirs in 2009 and renovations to the San Lorenzo Library included an AMHS addition in 2015.
Says Edwards, “It’s a big change for us, but we look at it as an investment in the future. About 1,500 people use this library every day, and our community is growing.”
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont
(510) 745-1413
www.aclibrary.org
FUSD Board of Education Meeting – Measure E Bond Program
Submitted by Kenneth Blackstone
The Fremont Unified School District (FUSD) at its January 16 board meeting took the following action on agenda items related to the Measure E Bond Program:
Authorized staff to enter into agreement in the amount of $17,545 with N9technologies LLC to raise the flat panel monitors and install projection screens at the new construction project at American High School. Installing projection screens will provide a larger display surface and additional flexibility to display content to address teachers’ concerns of poor visibility in certain areas due to the elongated shape of the rooms.
Authorized staff to enter into agreement in the amount of $43,758 with Glumac for the preconstruction phase commissioning agent services for new construction and modernization projects at Centerville, Hopkins, and Thornton middle schools. The role of a commissioning agent, which is required by state building code, is to review the designs of the electrical, plumbing and Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems and provide peer review comments. In addition, the commissioning agent will test these systems to verify that they are installed and performing correctly and work with the district’s maintenance staff to confirm that they are trained and equipped to maintain these systems.
Authorized staff to amend the agreement by $25,255 with RMA Group (RMA) for the new construction project at Walters Middle School. The contractor has completed the offsite steel fabrication activities. In order to partially mitigate the delay to the start of construction, the steel fabrication shop engaged in expediting the fabrication, working two 10-hour shifts per day. As a result, RMA supplied special inspectors for these shifts to monitor the steel fabrication. The added cost of the multiple, extended shifts surpassed the budget allocated for the materials testing and special inspection firm. The total amended agreement is now $134,379, which is within the budget for the project.
Received the annual demographic study, performed by consultant Cooperative Strategies, including enrollment analysis and classroom staffing projection. For the past 10 years, FUSD has steadily grown by more than 3,700 students with 3,000 of those arriving in the past seven years. The data show the district is continuing to grow but not as rapidly as before. Long-term projections still show an increase in enrollment over the next seven years but are less than the same study projected the last time it was presented in November 2017. For 2018-19, the district's enrollment declined slightly, by 254 students from the prior year, and stands at 35,176. However, this seems to be an anomaly to the trend of 10 consecutive years of growth as the projection for next year is another increase. The demographic study is used to calculate the number of classroom teachers needed for the succeeding three years and to analyze and determine where additional classrooms may be needed.
Move those feet
Submitted by Jennifer Tibbetts
Are you looking for a fun way to exercise and meet new people? The Kenneth Aitken Senior Center is offering two levels of line dance classes – All Levels on Tuesdays and Beginning Line Dance on Fridays. For more information, call (510) 881-6738.
Line Dance Classes
Tuesdays: 10 a.m. – 12 noon
Fridays: 12 noon – 1:30 p.m.
Kenneth Aitken Senior Center
17800 Redwood Rd, Castro Valley
(510) 881-6738
Drop-in fee: $4 per person
Volunteers needed
Submitted by Jennifer Tibbetts
Can you lend a hand and help tend the soil and plant new crops? The Hayward Park District’s Kenneth Aitken Senior Center is looking for volunteers to help in its Garden Program. The center will be replanting its garden on Wednesday, January 23 with winter crops. For more information or to reserve your spot, call Tibbetts at (510) 881-6742.
Replanting Garden Program
Wednesday, Jan 23
10:30 a.m.
Kenneth Aitken Senior Center
17800 Redwood Rd, Castro Valley
(510) 881-6742
Hayward new main library awaits final inspections, permits
Submitted by City of Hayward
The City of Hayward has announced that the opening of its nearly complete new main library likely will not take place until February or March, depending on the building passing final inspections and certifications. The official public opening of the new 21st Century Library and Community Learning Center, originally planned for October 2018, was postponed due to unforeseen construction delays that continue to set back the scheduling of final inspections and issuance of an occupancy permit.
“We understand that everyone is anxious to see the doors finally open at what is going to be an extraordinary civic and cultural gem,” said Hayward City Manager Kelly McAdoo. “At the same time, we need to make sure every detail is right and that we meet and surpass every facility and operational safety standard and inspection.”
The new library is a three-story, 58,000-square-foot building that will house 50 percent more books and other materials than its predecessor, 53 additional computers available for public use, a Makerspace featuring 3D printers, robotics and textiles, a digital-media lab, multiple community meeting rooms, a café, and a Homework Support Center in the children’s library. Designed by Noll & Tam Architects of Berkeley, the building will also set a new standard in environmentally sustainable design, a net-zero-energy facility, 100-percent energy self-sufficient powered by 100 percent carbon free sources of electricity. It is expected to receive a LEED certified rating of Platinum from the U.S. Green Building. To conserve drinking water, the new library and surrounding facilities will capture, store and filter rain water for future non-potable uses such as flushing toilets and irrigation.
The new library will open for business and regular operation following completion of final interior construction details, fire and life-safety system testing, training, and certification.
Hayward school musicians receive top national honors
Submitted by Dionicia Ramos
The Mt. Eden High School instrumental music program recently had two students accepted into the 2019 National Honor Band of America and National Honor Orchestra of America, respectively. The honor ensembles provide an opportunity for distinguished musicians to perform on a national stage – the students will perform at the Music for All National Musical Festival from March 14 to March 16 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Edwin Ramos, a violinist, will join the National Honor Orchestra – an honor he has received for three years in a row. Ramos has received an invitation to audition for the prestigious Thornton School of Music at the University of Southern California. Barry Galbreath Flores, a sophomore, was accepted to the National Honor Band of America. This honor solidifies his place as the top baritone saxophone player in the country.
Kevin and Earl Cato are the respective band and orchestra directors for Mt. Eden High School and couldn’t be any prouder of their students’ accomplishment. “The accepted students are a great example of the many dedicated and talented members of our extraordinary visual and fine arts programs at Mt. Eden High School,” they stated. “Truly, they’re a testament that hard work, perseverance, and persistence will assist you in achieving your goals.”
Hayward City Council
January 15, 2019
Public Comments:
- New Head Librarian Jayanti Addleman introduced herself
- Public outcry over the shooting of Agustin Gonsalez. Demands for the Hayward Police to release video footage, for an independent investigation, and for better mental health training
Consent Calendar:
- Adoption of an ordinance to establish a “Dig Once” policy for installing underground conduits
- Adoption of an ordinance to establish regulations for wireless communication facilities
in the public right of way
- Resignation of Ms. Iris J. Murillo from the Library Commission and Ms. Lynne Clifton from the Keep Hayward Clean and Green Task Force effective immediately
Calendar passed 7-0
Items Removed from Consent Calendar:
- Resignation of Jocimara Alejandre, Jorge Mazariegos Jr., and Myles McGee from the Hayward Youth Commission and appointment of Joshua Linares, Lizbeth Martinez and Ellette Mendall to fulfill the unexpired terms. Item passed 6-0 (Recusal Mendall)
- Declaration of a Climate Emergency. Item passed 7-0
Work Session:
- Downtown Specific Plan project update. Many councilmembers were concerned with vacancy rates, and lack of parking/green spaces. They are in support of changing “The Loop” in an attempt to slow traffic, involving unions during construction, converting A and B Streets to two-way, building higher, and re-purposing the BART parking lot.
Public Hearing:
- Hayward executive airport hangar rental rates. Public comments claimed that current market rate information in the staff report was false. Council satisfied that findings are accurate and that the rental increase is minimal. Item passed 6-1 (Nay; Lamnin)
Legislative Business:
- Update on commercial cannabis permit process. Motion to reduce the over-concentration buffer from 1,000 feet to 500 feet passed 5-2 (Nay; Salinas, Halliday). Motion to expand the interview score thresholds to 500 passed 5-2 (Nay; Salinas, Marquez). Motion to delay the second round of request for proposals by 6-12 months passed 6-1 (Nay; Salinas)
- Approval of City of Hayward response to CASA Compact: A 15-year emergency policy package to confront the housing crisis in the San Francisco Bay Area. Item passed 7-0
Council Reports:
- Councilmember Marquez announced an event honoring Martin Luther King, Jr. will take place at Chabot College on Monday, January 21, at 4:30 p.m.
- Councilmember Wahab asked that better mental health training for police be initiated
Mayor Barbara Halliday Aye, 1 Nay
Sara Lamnin Aye, 1 Nay
Francisco Zermeno Aye
Aisha Wahab Aye
Al Mendall Aye, 1 Recusal
Elisa Marquez Aye, 1 Nay
Mark Salinas Aye, 3 Nay
Flea Market
Submitted by Ginger Russell
Hill and Valley Women’s Club, a nonprofit organization, will host its annual Flea Market on Saturday, February 2. The indoor rummage sale will feature household goods, clothing and accessories, jewelry, linens, appliances and electronics, books, toys, sewing and craft materials, and miscellaneous. The club’s cafe will be open for sandwiches and cookies. Funds raised at the event will support local charities. For more information, call Ginger Russell at (510) 690-9424.
Rummage sale
Saturday, Feb 2
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Hill and Valley Women’s Club
1808 B St (corner of B and Linden), Hayward
(510) 690-9424
Parking available
Is homeschooling right for your child?
Submitted by Nissa Nack
Choosing to homeschool your child is a major life decision. California Homeschool Association Board member and Homeschooling Consultant Jamie Heston will discuss options, resources, and criteria to help you decide if homeschooling is the right choice for your family. Two opportunities are available to attend this free presentation: Friday, February 15 and Tuesday, February 19. To register or for more information, visit Alameda County Library website at https://events.aclibrary.org/ and search “homeschooling” or call the Union City Library at (510) 745-1464.
Homeschooling Presentation
Friday, Feb 15: 2:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Feb 19: 6:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd, Union City
(510) 745-1464
https://events.aclibrary.org/, search “homeschooling”
Drop-ins welcome but registration requested
James Madison University, Virginia
December 2018 Commencement
- Kristina Williams, Milpitas
Bob Jones University, South Carolina
Fall 2018 Dean’s List
- Grace Wong, Hayward
Lehigh University, Pennsylvania
Fall 2018 Dean’s List
- Alan Wang
Becker College, Massachusetts
Fall 2018 Dean’s List
- Corynn Cooper, Fremont
Campbellsville University, Kentucky
Fall 2018 graduates, Master of Science Information Technology
- Thakur Nikhil Singh, Fremont
- Singireddy Vijay Kumar, Fremont
- Dinesh Kumar Sonar, Fremont
- Tadkamadla Kunal, Fremont
- Karthik Reddy Talakanti, Fremont
- Anupama Talari, Fremont
- Sai Kumar Tirupathi, Fremont
- Vajanala Supreeth, Fremont
- SivaMahesh Vemula, Fremont
- Sunil Kumar Yaram, Fremont
- Chandan Ambilollu, Hayward
- Harinath Reddy Cheruku, Hayward
- Venkat Rama Kadari, Hayward
- Ravikiran Kondiparthi, Hayward
- Sridhar Reddy Basupally, Milpitas
- Venkat Ram Dasani, Milpitas
- Varun Geddada Suresh,Milpitas
- Madhavi Kothapeta, Milpitas
- Srikanth Panibhatla, Milpitas
Panja Avinash, Milpitas
Sanketh Polati, Milpitas
Abhinav Veluvarthy, Milpitas
Eastern New Mexico University
Fall 2018 graduation
- Gurjit Dhindsa, Fremont
Ohio Wesleyan University
Fall 2018 Dean’s List
- Jasmine Lew, Fremont
Wheaton College
Fall 2018 Dean’s List
- Sara Grace Rosselli, Fremont
- Abigail Chen, Hayward
Influenza on a rise throughout California
Submitted by California Department of Public Health
The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has announced that influenza activity is increasing throughout California. Health officials encourage Californians to get vaccinated. Flu activity is occurring throughout every region of the state and above expected levels for this time of year. Although the severity of the flu season cannot yet be determined, Californians should take precautions, including vaccination. Common symptoms include fever or feeling feverish, a cough and/or sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, chills, fatigue and body aches. Children may also have nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
“I encourage everyone 6 months of age and older to be vaccinated to help protect themselves and others from the dangers of flu. Flu activity usually reaches its peak January and February, but typically continues to spread through the spring. With most of the flu season still to come, it’s not too late to get vaccinated,” said CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer Dr. Karen Smith.
For more information about the flu, including weekly updates on fly activity, visit the CDPH influenza web page, www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Immunization/Influenza.aspx. To find a vaccine location near you, visit www.vaccinefinder.org.
Girls Soccer
Lady Vikings subdue Lady Huskies
Submitted and photos by Mike Heightchew
The Lady Vikings of Irvington (Fremont) put on a demonstration of effective offense in their January 17 meeting with the Lady Huskies of Washington (Fremont). Unrelenting pressure on the Huskies’ goal and speed on the field gave the Vikings a critical advantage resulting in an early lead and eventual victory. However, the Huskies were also capable of offensive firepower and kept the score even during much of the contest. It wasn’t until the Vikings were able to pull away with a goal in the final 15 minutes and another goal with just 13 minutes left that the final tally of 6-4 put the game in the win column for the Vikings.
CONTINUING EVENTS:
Tuesday, Sep 4 – Thursday, May 23
Homework Help Center
Mon. – Thurs. 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Primary and secondary students receive homework assistance
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
(510) 745-1401
Mondays, Sep 10 – May 28
Advanced Math & Science Tutoring
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
For high school and college students
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 745 1401
Tuesdays, Jan 22 – Mar 26
Practice Your Spoken English R
4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
No class Dec 18 – Jan 1
Chat session for English learners
Fremont Main Library Fukaya Room A
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 574-2063
Wednesdays, Dec 5 – Feb 20
Watercolor Class $
9 a.m. – 12 noon
For all experience levels
San Lorenzo Adult School
820 Bockman Road, San Lorenzo
(510) 317-4200
https://adu.slzusd.org
Monday – Friday, Dec 13 – Mar 1
Celebrate Women!
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Art from a variety of artists using different media
Hayward City Hall
777 B St., Hayward
(510) 208-0410
Monday – Friday, Dec 15 – Feb 15
Cultures in Transition: Photographs by Oliver Klink
Upstairs: Mon-Fri, 9-5
Downstairs: Mon: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. Tues & Thurs: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Celebrating Asia.
PhotoCentral
1099 E St., Hayward
(510) 881-6721
www.photocentral.org
Wednesdays, Thursdays, Sundays, Dec 19 – Apr 28
Tech Help and Computer Tutor R
Wed. 7 p.m.-8 p.m., Thurs. 3 p.m.-4 p.m., Sun. 1 p.m.-5 p.m.
Half hour appts. for one-on-one computer and e-device help
Union City Branch Library
34007 Alvarado Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Jan 3 – Feb 7
Food Business Training R
6:30 p.m. — 8:30 p.m.
10-part series on running your own food business
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1421
https:/tinyurl.com/ya4xgmfo
Saturdays and Sundays, Jan 5 – Feb 24
Wild Wonders
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Games, activities, crafts for all ages
Sunol Regional Wilderness
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3249
www.ebparks.org
Saturdays and Sundays, Jan 5 – Feb 24
Nature Crafts
10 a.m. – 12 noon
Get crafty and learn about the natural world
Sunol Regional Wilderness
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3249
www.ebparks.org
Monday – Sunday, Jan 8 – Jan 31
Climate Change: Landscapes of Our Blue Planet
During business hours
Exhibit by Fremont artist Bhavna Misra
Mission Coffee Roasting House
151 Washington Blvd., Fremont
(510) 474-1004
fremontcoffee.com
Wednesdays, Jan 9 – Jan 23
Gift of Imperfection: Living With Your Whole Heart $
10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Explore happiness – how to live a rich and fulfilling life
Kenneth C. Aitken Center
17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 881-6738
Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Jan 11 – Jan 27
Shrek The Musical $
Fri – Sat: 7:30 p.m. Sun: 2:30 p.m.
Come see your favorite ogre
Smith Center
43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont
(510) 659-6031
https://starstrucktheatre.org/
Thursday-Sunday, Jan 11 – Feb 9
Musing and Memento Mori
12 noon – 5 p.m.
Mixed media sculptures by David Morritt
Olive Hyde Art Gallery
123 Washington Blvd., Fremont
(510) 791-4357
www.fremont.gov/OliveHyde
Friday, Jan 11 – Sunday, Feb 24
Perspectives
Friday-Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Reception: Saturday, Feb 2
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Six-year-old artist Isadora Qi exhibits alongside her mentor Ruey Syrop
Sun Gallery
1015 E St, Hayward
(510) 581-4050
Saturday, Jan 12 – Sunday, Mar 10
Chinese Roots: Sketches of Life in the Washington Township
Library open hours
Exhibit focuses on the Chinese immigrants who helped build our local community, and covers the historical towns that are now Fremont, Newark, and Union City from the Gold Rush to WWII.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont
(510) 745-1400
www.aclibrary.org/fremont
chinese.history@museumoflocalhistory.org
https://museumoflocalhistory.org/resources/special-projects/
Tuesdays, Jan 15 – Mar 26
Shakespeare and Cultural Literacy Class $
12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Watch videos and discuss. $2 drop-in fee
Kenneth C. Aitken Center
17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 881-6738
www.haywardrec.org
Wednesdays, Jan 16 – Mar 27
Crochet and Knitting $
12:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Learn the basics. $2 drop-in fee
Kenneth C. Aitken Center
17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 881-6738
Wednesday, Jan 16 – Friday, Feb 22
The Art of Peace – Alameda County
Tuesday – Thursday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
3D artwork created from the remains of dismantled firearms, reflecting a message to end gun violence and create positive pathways for all
Hayward Center/Adult School’s Sunset Gallery
22100 Princeton St H2, Hayward
(510) 538-2787
Fridays, Jan 18 – Mar 29
Needle Arts $
9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Have fun with yarn. $2 drop-in fee
Kenneth C. Aitken Center
17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 881-6738
www.haywardrec.org
Tuesdays, Jan 22 – Mar 26
All Levels Line Dance Class $
10 a.m. – 12 noon
Exercise to music. $4 drop in fee
Kenneth C. Aitken Center
17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 881-6738
www.haywardrec.org
Thursdays, Jan 24 – Mar 28
Laughter Yoga $
3 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Reduce stress and boost your immune system. $2 drop in fee
Kenneth C. Aitken Center
17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 881-6738
www.haywardrec.org
Friday, Jan 25 – Mar 29
Beginning Line Dance Class $
12 noon – 1:30 p.m.
Exercise to music. $4 drop in fee
Kenneth C. Aitken Center
17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 881-6738
Friday-Sunday, Jan 25 – Mar 23
Children's Book Illustrator Show
11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Artwork from local illustrators. Artist reception Saturday, Feb. 2, 1-4 p.m.
Sun Gallery
1015 E St., Hayward
(510) 581-4050
www.sungallery.org
Thursday – Saturday, Jan 26 – Mar 9
A.R.T. Inc. Annual Members' Exhibit
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Fine art from various local artists. Opening reception Saturday, Jan 26 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Adobe Art Center
20395 San Miguel Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 881-6735
www.adobegallery.org
Friday nights
Laugh Track City $
8 p.m.
Fast-paced improv comedy show
Made Up Theatre
4000 Bay St, Suite B, Fremont
(510) 573-3633
Saturday nights
8 p.m.
Audience-inspired improv play
Made Up Theatre
4000 Bay St, Suite B, Fremont
(510) 573-3633
THIS WEEK
Tuesday, Jan 22
Personal Emergency Preparedness
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Learn to take care of yourself and family before, during and after a disaster
Fremont Fire Training Center
3300 Capitol Ave., Fremont
Wednesday, Jan 23
English Language Proficiency Assessments
5 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Learn about additional ways to support your student at home
New Haven Unified School District Office
34200 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City
(510) 471-1100 x 62638
Wednesday, Jan 23
Garden Program
10:30 a.m.
Plant winter crops
Kenneth C. Aitken Center
17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 881-6738
www.haywardrec.org
Thursday, Jan 24
Community Meeting
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Assemblymember Kansen Chu provides assistance with state or local issues
Milpitas Library
160 North Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
Thursday, Jan 24
Garden Science for Kids
3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
What are the parts of the plant?
Centerville Library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
Thursday, Jan 24
Bystander Intervention Training
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Hosted by Union City Stands United Against Hate/CAIR SF Bay Area
New Haven Unified School District Office
34200 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City
(510) 471-1100 x 62638
Thursday, Jan 24
Hayward Area Senior Softball
10 a.m.
Informational meeting
San Felipe Park & Community Center
2058 D St., Hayward
(510) 420-0813
(510) 881-6700
Friday, Jan 25
Karaoke Night $
7:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Sing 1980's Bollywood music
India Community Center
525 Los Coches Street, Milpitas
(408) 934-1130
www.IndiaCC.org
Friday, Jan 25
Latino Business Roundtable
8:30 a.m.
Presentation on A-1 Community Housing Services
Sherman L. Balch Pavilion – St. Rose Hospital
27190 Calaroga Ave., Hayward
(510) 537-2424
www.hayward.org/index.php/community/get-involved/136-latino-business-roundtable
Friday, Jan 25
Community Workshop
12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Hosted by California Multifamily New Homes Program
City of Fremont Development Services Center, Niles Room
39550 Liberty St., Fremont
(510) 494-4535
Friday, Jan 25
Brian Copeland's Not a Genuine Black Man $
8:00 p.m.
Copeland recounts being one of the only African/American families growing up in San
Leandro
Douglas Morrison Theatre
22311 N Third St., Hayward
(510) 881-6777
www.dmtonline.org
Saturday, Jan 26
For the Birds Volunteer Project – R
9 a.m. – 12 noon
Assist in building and cleaning bird boxes
Garin Regional Park
1320 Garin Ave., Hayward
(510) 582-2206
(888) 327-2757
Saturday, Jan 26
Monarchs for Kids
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Learn about eggs, caterpillars, and chrysalides. Meet at Granary. Ages 3-6
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Saturday, Jan 26 – Sunday, Jan 27
Monarchs: Pollinator Royalty
12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Learn how butterflies affect our surroundings. Meet at Greenhouse
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Saturday, Jan 26 – Sunday, Jan 27
Monarch Spotting
Sat. 2:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m., Sun. 11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Use a spotting scope to take a closer peek. Meet at Greenhouse
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Saturday, Jan 26
Hayward Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala $R
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Dinner and special recognition awards. Black tie optional
Cal State East Bay University
25800 Carlos Bee Blvd., Hayward
(510) 885-3118
(510) 537-2424
www.hayward.org
Saturday, Jan 26
Fremont Area Writers
2 p.m.
Linda Joy Myers talks about memoir writing. Room 115
42 Silicon Valley
6600 Dumbarton Circle, Fremont
cwc-fremontareawriters.org
Saturday, Jan 26
Groovy Judy
9 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Soul of the 60's and beyond. Free 21+
Mojo Lounge
3714 Peralta Blvd., Fremont
(510) 739-1028
Saturday, Jan 26
Neighborhood Clean Up
8:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Join Keep Hayward Clean and Green Task Force in this monthly program
Big 5 Parking Lot
22400 Foothill Blvd., Hayward
www.hayward-ca.gov/haywardbeautiful
Saturday, Jan 26
Ohlone in the Marsh: Staves (Games) R
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Play Ohlone games and take home your own customized staves. 8+
Environmental Education Center
1751 Grand Blvd., Alviso
(408) 262-5513 x 104
Saturday, Jan 26
Community Science Training Day R
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Interested in volunteer opportunities – immediate training
Environmental Education Center
1751 Grand Blvd., Alviso
(408) 262-5513
watershedwatchers@sfbws.com
Saturday, Jan 26
Indicators that Fox are in Your Area R
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Gain insights into fox behavior during this walk
SF Bay Wildlife Refuge – Don Edwards
1 Marshlands Rd., Fremont
(510) 792-0222
http://donedwardsfox.eventbrite.com
Saturday, Jan 26
Clergy Sex Abuse: Crisis in the Catholic Church R
9 a.m. – 12 noon
Workshop focused on the clergy sex abuse crisis
Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose
43326 Mission Blvd., Fremont
(510) 933-6335
http://bit.ly/2019ClergyCrisis
Saturday, Jan 26
Physicians for Social Responsibility
10:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Learn about this non-profit
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1421
Saturday, Jan 26
Sons of Norway Crab Feed $R
6:00 p.m.
Dinner, raffle, music, dancing
Hill and Valley Clubhouse
1808 B St., Hayward
(650) 245-8473
(925) 548-0292
Saturday, Jan 26
Murder Most Foul Forum Mystery Author Event
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Book signing event with local authors, Q & A session
San Leandro Main Library
300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro
(510) 577-3971
Saturday, Jan 26
Comedy Shorts Night $
7:30 p.m.
“A Night Out”, “Good Night Nurse”, “Movie Night”, “Early to Bed”
Niles Essanay Theater
37417 Niles Blvd, Fremont
(510) 494-1411
www.nilesfilmmuseum.org
Saturday, Jan 26
Meet Shawn Harris
9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Artist and musician books available for purchase and autographs
Lincoln Elementary School
36111 Bettencourt St, Newark
(510) 818-3500
Saturday, Jan 26
Mission Peak Wind Symphony
7:30 p.m.
Talented high school students perform
Chabot Performing Arts Center
25555 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
(510) 723-6976
Saturday, Jan 26
Pink Floyd Concert Experience $
8:00 p.m.
Tribute show with live musical performance starring House of Floyd
Historic Bal Theatre
14808 East 14th Street, San Leandro
(510) 614-7700
Saturday, Jan 26
Notes for Nourishment concert
1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Family-friendly program of classical music
St. Joseph Basilica
1109 Chestnut St, Alameda
(510) 540-8136
NotesForNourishment.blogspot.com
Sunday, Jan 27
Marvelous Monarchs
10:30 a.m.
Slide show and visit to the eucalyptus grove. Meet at granary
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
Sunday, Jan 27
Marathi Standup Comedy $
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Featuring Samson Koletkar, world's only Indian Jewish comedian
India Community Center
525 Los Coches Street, Milpitas
(408) 934-1130
www.hungamacity.com
Sunday, Jan 27
Castro Valley Reads 2019
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Kick-off event to reading and discussion – this year's theme is immigration
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
www.aclibrary.org
Sunday, Jan 27
Native California Plant Uses
10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Learn how Native Californians use plants for food, medicine, and shelter
Coyote Hills
8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont
(510) 544-3220
www.ebparks.org
Sunday, Jan 27
Sleep In and Take A Hike
1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Easy 2.5-mile hike around the hills. 15+
Coyote Hills
8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont
(510) 544-3220
www.ebparks.org
Sunday, Jan 27
Dove Gallery Art From the Heart Exhibit
2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Grand opening featuring art of various media and style
Park Victoria Baptist Church
875 S. Park Victoria Dr., Milpitas
(408) 464-5011
dove@parkvictoria.org
Sunday, Jan 27
Republic Day of India Celebration $R
10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Dance competition, patriotic songs, cultural performance, awards
Santa Clara Convention Center
5001 Great America Pkwy., Santa Clara
(510) 304-5619
Monday, Jan 28
Outdoor Discoveries: Neat Newts R
10:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Playful science for home school kids. Ages 4 – 8
Sunol Regional Wilderness
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3249
Monday, Jan 28
Conquering Time and Space: How Chinese Labor Helped the United States Become A
Transcontinental Nation
7 p.m.
Historic interpreter and park director for the California Stare Parks in Sacramento, Phil Sexton will talk about the construction of the railroad and its profound effects on both the nation and California.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont
(510) 745-1400
www.aclibrary.org/fremont
chinese.history@museumoflocalhistory.org
https://museumoflocalhistory.org/resources/special-projects/
Monday, Jan 28
Milpitas Rotary Club Meeting
12 noon – 1:30 p.m.
Program about Collaborating Agencies Disaster Response Effort
Dave and Busters
940 Great Mall Dr., Milpitas
(408) 957-9215
http://www.clubrunner.ca/milpitas
Monday, Jan 28
Eden Garden Club Meeting
9:30 a.m.
Turn gardens into bay friendly landscapes and mini carbon farms
Hayward-Castro Valley Moose Lodge
20835 Rutledge Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 723-6936
(510) 209-7366
Monday, Jan 28
Coyote Cubs: Healthy Habitats
10:30 a.m.- 11:30 a.m.
Play games, explore the park, do a theme related craft. 3-5 yrs
Coyote Hills
8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont
(510) 544-3220
www.ebparks.org
Monday, Jan 28
IPhone Training
10 a.m. – 12 noon
Learn tips and tricks on how to use your phone
Fremont Senior Center
40086 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont
(510) 790-6600
Monday, Jan 28
Washington Township Historical Society Meeting
7:15 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Retired Newark Postmaster Phil Fraher speaks about postal service in Newark
Museum of Local History
190 Anza Street, Fremont
(510) 623-7907
www.museumoflocalhistory.org
Monday, Jan 28
Special Education Community Advisory Committee Meeting
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Options and strategies with IEPs [Individualized Education Program]
Thornton Jr. High, Library
4357 Thornton Avenue, Fremont
(510) 659-2542
https://www.fremont.k12.ca.us/Page/25302
Tuesday, Jan 29
Boundless Compassion: Creating a Way of Life $R
10 a.m. – 12 noon
7-week personal transformation process. Read book intro before attending
Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose
43326 Mission Blvd., Fremont
(510) 933-6335
http://bit.ly/2019Boundless
Tuesday, Jan 29
Food Business Training Academy R
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Learn about financial projections, money systems and checks
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1421
Wednesday, Jan 30
Neighborhood Alert Community Meeting
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Learn about disaster preparedness
Hayward Police Department North District Office
22701 Main St, Hayward
(510) 293-7272
Thursday, Jan 31
Chinese New Year's Celebration $
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Traditional performances with music and festive attire. Lunch after program
Fremont Senior Center
40086 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont
(510) 790-6600
Thursday, Jan 31
Wilder than Wild
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Film and discussion on fire suppression and climate change
San Leandro Main Library
300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro
(510) 577-3971
Friday, Feb 8 – Sunday, Feb 10
Friends of the Library Book Sale $
Fri: 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Sat: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Sun: 12 noon – 3 p.m.
Fri: members only, Sat: $1 per inch, Sun: $5 per bag
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1421
(510) 494-1103
Youth Job Fair
Submitted by Jaimee Rizzotti
Whether you like spending time outdoors, working with children or lifeguarding on the beach, East Bay Regional Park District has the perfect job for you. The Park District in partnership with City of Union City is hosting a Youth Job Fair on Saturday, February 2. Resume and interview tips will be provided at the event, which is open to ages 15 to 24. For more information, call (510) 544-2154, visit www.ebparks.org or email jobs@ebparks.org.
Youth Job Fair
Saturday, Feb 2
10 a.m. to 12 noon
10:00 a.m.: Doors Open
10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.: Job Fair and Networking
11:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.: Workshops and Mock Interviews
12 noon: Farewell
Ruggieri Senior Center
33997 Alvarado-Niles Rd, Union City
(510) 544–2154
Parking available at James Logan High School
Don’t miss a hilarious night
Submitted by Nancy Tubbs
Why go all the way to San Francisco when comics will bring the laughs to you? Laughing Matters Comedy will present some of the best comedians in the Bay Area in “Fremont Stand-Up Comedy Night” on Saturday, February 2.
The stellar lineup includes Sam Meeker, a regular at the San Jose Improv; Allison Mick, an Oakland-based comedian and writer who has performed at SF Sketchfest, the Boston Women in Comedy Festival, etc.; Saul Trujillo who won 2018 Sacramento Comedy Competition; Nicole Blue, an up-and-coming comedian who had the honor to perform with fellow soror and comedian Sheryl Underwood, Earthquake, Joe Torrey and Luenell; Bob Johnson who does Blue Collar Comedy; and Jeanette Marin, a devoted mother who has never been mistaken for Mary Poppins.
Jeen Yee will be the host of the free event. For more information or to register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/fremont-stand-up-comedy-night-laughing-matters-tickets-54469792616, email jeenyeecomedy@gmail.com or visit Laughing Matters Comedy Facebook page @LaughingMattersComedians.
Comedy Night
Saturday, Feb 2
9 p.m. – 11 p.m.
The Mojo Lounge
3714 Peralta Blvd, Fremont
www.eventbrite.com/e/fremont-stand-up-comedy-night-laughing-matters-tickets-54469792616
Facebook: @LaughingMattersComedians
Sometimes math and science lessons really are over everyone’s head
Submitted by Kenneth Blackstone
“I’ll never use this after I get out of school,” is a familiar mantra amongst math and science students. In today’s high-tech world, that is becoming less and less true as many find they actually do use it in ways they may have never imagined!
That idea is to be put to the test on Tuesday, January 22 when the entire student body at Horner Junior High School in Fremont will have the opportunity to see how important these calculations are, especially when it comes to putting a new roof over their heads.
A construction crane, about 50-feet high, will be on site for a practical demonstration of how math and science calculations are used every day in the construction industry. The entire student body will gather from 12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. to a secure staging area on the track and blacktop, where they will be able to see the crane in action while listening to construction staff explain crane operation.
“The students see and hear the construction going on every day but probably haven’t given it a second thought,” said Horner Principal Jana Holmes. “Seeing practical applications like the calculation of weights, counterweights and hydraulics in action will make it tangible to students and something they are likely to remember for a long time.”
Students have been submitting questions to teachers in advance and a sample of those will be asked of and answered by construction staff. The questions and answers will also be discussed once the students return to class after seeing the crane in action.
Teachers of other subjects will have students participate in related assignments, making this a truly interdisciplinary lesson. Career opportunities associated with solving these types of problems will also be discussed.
The school, at 41365 Chapel Way in the city’s Irvington District, is currently undergoing a conversion to a middle school, the second of five Fremont Unified School District junior high schools to be converted over the next several years. The new buildings will be open for the school year beginning fall 2020. The project is part of the $650 Measure E bond passed in 2014.
Finding Inner Peace and Calmness
Submitted by Lyn Leone
Learn to find inner peace and calmness through meditation with Dr. Manish Saggar at the Castro Valley Library on Saturday, February 2. Dr. Saggar will present a program, including a short presentation and guided meditation, to help you learn how to find relief from stress in turbulent times. Dr. Saggar, a meditator for 20 years, is an assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine. For more information, call the library at (510) 667-7900, or visit https://events.aclibrary.org/event/4760297?&hs=a.
Meditation workshop
Saturday, Feb 2
11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Castro Valley Library, Chabot/Canyon Room
3600 Norbridge Ave, Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
https://events.aclibrary.org/event/4760297?&hs=a
Learn what’s in store for local baseball
Submitted by Frank De Smidt
Lance Motch, San Jose Giants Senior Vice President of Baseball Operations, will be guest speaker at the next Milpitas Rotary Club meeting. Motch’s address will be “The Next Generation of Giants.” The meeting will be Monday, February 4 at Dave & Buster’s, Milpitas. Lunch will be available for purchase.
Rotary is a service club organization with chapters nationwide and around the world. The Milpitas club membership includes business and professional leaders who take an active role in their communities while enriching their personal and professional lives.
For information about the luncheon meeting, or Rotary, call Frank De Smidt at (408) 582-3342 or visit the Milpitas Rotary webpage at https://portal.clubrunner.ca/6028/
Milpitas Rotary Club meeting
Monday, Feb. 4
12 noon – 1:30 p.m.
Guest speaker: Lance Motch
Dave & Buster’s
940 Great Mall Drive, Milpitas
Frank De Smidt, (408) 582-3342
Admission: Free; lunch available for purchase
Are you prepared for disaster?
Submitted by Hayward PD
Nathaniel Armstrong, Battalion Chief at the Hayward Fire Department, will discuss disaster preparedness at a Hayward Neighborhood General Alert Meeting on Wednesday, January 30. Armstrong also will answer general questions from the audience about how the fire department prepares for and operates during a disaster. The meeting will be at the Hayward Police Department’s North District Office.
Neighborhood Alert Meeting
Wednesday, Jan. 30
7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Guest speaker: Nathaniel Armstrong, Hayward Fire Department
22701 Main St., Hayward
(510) 293-1043
haywardpdcpu@hayward-ca.gov
Admission: Free
Girls Soccer
Lady Cougars earn hard-fought victory
Submitted and photos by Mike Heightchew
The Newark Memorial Lady Cougars met the Lady Titans of John F. Kennedy (Fremont) on January 17 in a close contest that was undecided until the final seconds. To the end, both teams kept their net clear with the exception of one lapse in the Titan defense that led to the only goal of the game. The result was a hard-fought 1-0 victory for the Cougars and a tough loss for the Titans.
Adobe Art Gallery showcases ‘New Beginning’
Submitted by Leah Virsik
Adobe Art Gallery presents the works of A.R.T., Inc. members in the upcoming exhibit “New Beginnings” running Saturday, January 26 – Saturday, March 9. Artwork from over 60 artists will be on display with a wide array of mediums including encaustic, oil and acrylic paintings, watercolor, clay, colored pencil, mixed media, and photography. Meet and greet the artists at the artists’ and awards reception Saturday, January 26. Art judge Edwin Bertolet will select the exhibition awards.
Exhibiting artists include Hollie Adamic, Hetal Anjaria, Daniela Asar, Kay Athos, Rosa Bazzani, Shari Benson, Carol Jones Brown, Nick Calarco, Valerie Caveglia, Stella Chen, Lee Daguman, Patricia Doyne, Raymundo Enriquez, Sheila Fimreite, Anna Fisher, Richard Geiger, Paula Greer, Seema Gupta, Kathleen Hardwig, Mercie Harris, Maggie Ho, Pamela Holloway, Susan Howell, Christina Huang, Natalie Juntz, Niambi Kee, Kathleen Kelly, Anna Kim, Ellen King, Larry Lagin, Bev Lindsay, Arentino Lucero, Hilary Lui, Ann Maloney-Mason, Ras Manneh, Al Murdach, Anne Nichandros, Marcia OKane, Edward Ortman, Livia Radu, John Ries, Kathy Ries, Lisa Rigge, Ron Rigge, William Sala, Christa Schanda, Sarah Schneider, Madeline Shelby, Lynne Shephard, Winda Shimizu, Rita Sklar, Valerie Snart, Nan Soldahl, Stanley Stadelman, Nina Starr, Radha Syed, Ruey Lin Syrop, Gerald Thompson, Jill Thompson, Winifred Thompson, Renea Turner, Ain Veske, Chi-Hsuan Yang and more.
A.R.T., Inc. was founded in 1984 as an association for artists to exchange ideas and exhibit their art. Fostering connections between local artists and art enthusiasts, A.R.T., Inc. provides free art demonstrations for people of all ages and displays the work of its members in six venues in Castro Valley. Members’ art has been displayed at Bank of the West, Castro Valley Library, Baywood Court Senior Community (three galleries), Gladding Gallery at the Adobe Art Center, and Kenneth C. Aitken Senior Center.
A.R.T., Inc. partners with Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD) and provides support to HARD’s Adobe Art Gallery through its membership fees, newsletter, website, art demonstrations, hands-on workshops and social events.
New Beginnings: A.R.T., Inc. Members’ Exhibition
Saturday, Jan 26 – Saturday, Mar 9
Thursday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Opening Reception:
Saturday, Jan 26
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Adobe Art Gallery
20395 San Miguel Ave, Castro Valley
(510) 881-6735
https://haywardrec.org/783/Adobe-Art-Gallery
www.artinc.org/
Fremont News Briefs
Submitted by Cheryl Golden
We Want Your Feedback
Dusterberry Park is a 4-acre park in its planning stages and will be located at the corner of Dusterberry Way and Peralta Blvd in Fremont. The current building will be demolished, and the concrete and asphalt removed to make way for a park that serves the residents in the neighborhood. The city conducted the first in a series of four workshop meetings on January 12. The next meeting will involve design exercises with residents about the features you’d like to see in the park that will provide opportunities for informal recreation, leisure, and fitness. Don’t miss this opportunity to interact with your neighbors about what your park should look like. Attend upcoming meetings from 9 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday, February 9; 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 6; and 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 17 at Art Place, Artist Walk, 3888 Artist Walk Common. For information, visit www.Fremont.gov/Dusterberry or contact Senior Landscape Architect Mark Mennucci at mmennucci@fremont.gov or (510) 494-4530.
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Sign Up for Nixle and AC Alerts
With recent earthquakes that shook the Bay Area, Fremont police and fire departments are encouraging community members to sign up for two notification systems – Nixle, specific to our city; and AC Alert, a mass alert notification system that is beyond just Fremont. Nixle, used by Fremont Police Department and Fremont Fire Department, sends text message alerts with information on critical incidents, road closures, and severe traffic. To sign-up, text your Fremont ZIP code to 888777 or visit www.Nixle.com for community messages and email notifications. Alameda County’s AC Alert System, used by both the City of Fremont and Alameda County, notifies subscribers with critical information in the event of an emergency. Select your home city, work location, and other sites of your choosing to receive notifications on your home, mobile, or business phones, emails, text messages, and more. AC Alert is a unified system for Alameda County residents, businesses and visitors, and works in partnership with Alameda County agencies and its 14 cities. Sign up at www.acalert.org.
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Discounted Flood Insurance Available to Residents
The City of Fremont has been a member of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) since 1983. Through its membership, Fremont has adopted and enforced a floodplain management ordinance to reduce flood risks for properties within Special Flood Hazard Areas. In turn, NFIP provides opportunities to purchase flood insurance for participating communities which would otherwise be unavailable to property owners. In addition to participating in NFIP, Fremont is also part of a voluntary program called Community Rating System (CRS). Due to Fremont’s high CRS rating, NFIP provides community members with a 15 percent discount on flood insurance policies within the Special Flood Hazard Area and a 5 percent discount for other policies.
To learn more about flood insurance, Special Flood Hazard Areas, or the benefits of the NFIP, visit FEMA’s website, www.Fema.gov or the city’s website, www.Fremont.gov/Floodinfo. To access the FEMA maps on the GIS database, visit https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home or www.Fremont.gov/GISMapRoom. For additional information including basic Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) information, problems not shown on the FIRM, flood depth data, special flood related hazards, and historical flood information, contact the city’s Engineering Division at floodinfo@fremont.gov or (510) 494-4718. For those who cannot access the online system, the City of Fremont Development Services Center, 39550 Liberty St, will continue to maintain copies of Letters of Map Change and Elevation Certificates.
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Artists Sought for Downtown Temporary Art Installation
The City of Fremont has extended the deadline for its call for artists for a temporary art installation as part of the Downtown Fremont Public Art Program. The new deadline for submissions is Thursday, February 14 and has been extended to encourage more local artists to apply. The city is seeking one large scale sculpture to display from May 2019 through May 2021, at its gateway location to Downtown Fremont – corner of Capitol Avenue and Fremont Boulevard. This temporary installation will focus on Community: Sharing Energy and Collaborating as its theme and have a commanding presence. The selected piece will replace the Space Glow sculpture, currently on display through May 2019. Artists can receive more information and apply online at www.Fremont.gov/TempArtDowntown.
Sons of Norway Crab Feed
Submitted by Irene Jordahl
Sons of Norway Snorre Lodge #61, Hayward will be hosting its annual Crab Feed Dinner on Saturday, January 26 for the community. The dinner will include fresh crab, spaghetti, garlic bread and salad. The event will also feature music, dance and raffle. Proceeds from the crab feed will assist with heritage outreach including rosemaling classes/workshops, educational lectures and ongoing support of the organization. To buy tickets or for more information, call Aunda Arndt at (925) 548-0292, email aja469@gmail.com or visit Sons of Norway’s Facebook page @SnorreSonsofNorwayHayward.
Crab Feed Dinner
Saturday, Jan 26
No host social: 6:00 p.m.; dinner: 6:30 p.m.
Hill & Valley Clubhouse
1808 B Street, Hayward
(925) 548-0292
Facebook: @SnorreSonsofNorwayHayward
Tickets: $55 Snorre Lodge members, $60 nonmembers – ages 13 and up; $25 ages 12 and under; under age 5 free
San Francisco’s longest-running one-man show comes to Hayward
Submitted by Bob Miller
Photos courtesy of Brian Copeland
Brian Copeland’s legendary hit, “Not a Genuine Black Man,” is set to take the stage Friday, January 25 at the Douglas Morrisson Theatre (DMT) in Hayward, in association with Carolena Productions LLC.
This critically acclaimed show, written and performed by Brian Copeland and directed by David Ford, explores Copeland’s childhood experiences as a member of one of the only African-American families growing up in a 94 percent white suburb of San Leandro. This tale of laughter, tears, and sociology is the longest-running solo show in San Francisco theatrical history with over 800 performances and has been performed in over 30 cities. The play is currently in television series development. In 2006, Copeland published a best-selling book based on “Not a Genuine Black Man” that is now required reading in several high schools and colleges across the country.
Brian Copeland is an award-winning actor, comedian, author, playwright, television and radio talk show host based in the San Francisco Bay Area. He began his career in stand-up at the tender age of 18 performing in comedy venues in San Francisco. Soon he was traveling the country opening for such legendary performers as Smokey Robinson, Aretha Franklin, Dionne Warwick, Ray Charles, The Temptations, Natalie Cole, Julio Iglesias, Ringo Starr, and Gladys Knight. Copeland performed his brand of biting, cutting-edge social commentary in venues including the Universal Amphitheater and Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. To date, Copeland has written and performed three subsequent critically acclaimed solo plays including “The Waiting Period” (2015 Theater Bay Area Award for Outstanding Production of a Solo Play), the hit Christmas show “The Jewelry Box,” and “The Scion” (PBS affiliate KQED’s Best New Play of 2014). His new play, “Grandma & Me: An Ode to Single Parents,” debuted in San Francisco in the fall of 2017.
In addition to his stage work, Copeland is a fixture in Bay Area broadcasting, where he has hosted programs on just about every television station, including KTVU (a five-year stint as co-host of “Mornings on 2”), ABC7 (host of the Emmy award-winning “7Live”), and KNTV (the hit 2015 late night special “Now Brian Copeland”). He has also performed on MTV, A&E, NBC, VH1 and Comedy Central. In 2006, Director Rob Reiner cast Copeland as Lee Chambers, the youngest son of Morgan Freeman, in the instant classic, “The Bucket List.”
A lifelong fan and listener of legendary Bay Area radio station KGO, Copeland was thrilled to become a substitute talk show host for the station beginning in 1991. In 1994, “The Brian Copeland Show” debuted as a weekend program that spent years as the most listened to radio show in its time slot. In the mid-2000s, Copeland did a weekly commentary feature for the station called “Copeland’s Corner.” The segment was honored with awards from the Radio Television News Directors Association and the Associated Press.
Tickets for “Not a Genuine Black Man” are $35 in advance and $40 at the door. The DMT Box Office is open Tuesday through Friday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and can be reached at (510) 881-6777, or visit www.dmtonline.org/not-a-genuine-black-man.
Not a Genuine Black Man
Friday, Jan 25
8 p.m.
Douglas Morrisson Theatre
22311 N. Third St, Hayward
(510) 881-6777
www.dmtonline.org/not-a-genuine-black-man
www.briancopeland.com/
Tickets: $35 in advance, $40 at the door
Sculptures and more at Ohlone
Submitted by Olive Hyde Art Guild
A unique exhibit of sculptures and hybrid media works from husband and wife artists Richard Keely and Anna O’Cain can be seen through February 14 at the Louie-Meager Art Gallery at Ohlone College in Fremont.
Keely is an artist and educator who originally trained as a painter. During the last 20 years Keely’s work has transitioned toward sculpture, photography and installation. He is often concerned with transforming ordinary objects into visually dense wall pieces that have the potential to evoke an array of experiential possibilities.
O’Cain is a studio art instructor in drawing, design and sculpture. She works with hybrid media, experimental processes, and installation. Performance actions taken from daily life, i.e. mending clothes, making pies, sewing felt covers for books in a library, and cataloging stories are elements in her installations work. Found objects used in her work often provide historical sources from which to begin the art making process. Sound, interactivity and electronic technologies are combined with more traditional media in her work.
The gallery is located inside the Smith Center at Ohlone College, 43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays and 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Admission is free; college lot parking lot fees apply. For details, call (510) 659-6000.
California bill would require businesses to offer e-receipts
By Don Thompson
Associated Press
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP), Jan 08 – California would become the first state to require businesses to offer electronic receipts unless customers ask for paper copies under legislation proposed on Tuesday.
Many businesses and consumers already are moving toward e-receipts, said Democratic Assemblyman Phil Ting of San Francisco.
But he said a law still is needed because many consumers don't realize most paper receipts are coated with chemicals prohibited in baby bottles, can't be recycled and can contaminate other recycled paper because of the chemicals known as Bisphenol-A (BPA) and Bisphenol-S (BPS).
His bill, AB161, would require all businesses to provide proof of purchase receipts electronically starting in 2022 unless the customer asks for a printed copy.
It comes days after another first-in-the-nation California law took effect requiring dine-in restaurants to provide drinking straws only at customers' request.
The penalties in Ting's bill are modeled on the straw bill, said Nick Lapis of Californians Against Waste. It calls for written warnings for the first two violations and a fine of $25 a day for subsequent infractions, with a $300 cap.
“It's intended to be a pretty light touch in terms of enforcement,” Lapis said.
Advocates said the use of straws is declining after that law was passed.
Many larger stores already offer the choice involving receipts, but it is unclear if a mandate would cause a hardship for small and medium-size stores, said California Retailers Association spokeswoman Pamela Williams. Her association and the California Chamber of Commerce have not taken positions on the bill.
Ting said businesses can save money by moving away from printed receipts.
The advocacy group Green America, which is pushing a “skip the slip” campaign, estimated that millions of trees and billions of gallons of water are used annually to produce paper receipts in the United States.
Ting cited studies by the Environmental Working Group and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention that retail workers have higher concentrations of BPA or BPS than those who do not have regular contact with receipts.
Ting said consumers can still request paper receipts if they are worried about giving out their email addresses for privacy reasons or to avoid having their emails used or sold for marketing purposes.
House of Floyd delivers ultimate tribute show
Submitted by BAL Theatre
Photos courtesy of House of Floyd
Experience the ultimate Pink Floyd tribute show in a live musical performance starring House of Floyd at the BAL Theatre on Saturday, January 26.
The Bay Area’s House of Floyd performs the music of Pink Floyd and has gained a strong following for their unique ability to enthuse both the hard-core fans of the early adventurous Floyd and those who enjoy the songs and soundscapes that later brought them widespread appeal. They capture the essence of each of the various Pink Floyd eras, from the formative Syd Barrett days through the ‘70s and the final post-Waters era.
General tickets are $29.99, seniors 65+ are $24.99, and children are $9.99. A VIP ticket for $39.99 gets you a meet and greet with the band and early access to the venue. For more information, call (510) 614-1224 or visit www.baltheatre.com.
Pink Floyd Concert Experience
Saturday, Jan 26
8 p.m.
BAL Theatre
14808 East 14th St, San Leandro
(510) 614-1224
www.houseoffloyd.com/
Tickets: $9.99 – $39.99
Murder Most Foul Mystery Forum
Submitted by Alice Kim
The San Leandro Library invites residents to attend the “Murder Most Foul Forum” author event on Saturday, January 26. Attendees will get a chance to hear first-hand from local mystery authors Eileen Rendahl, Gigi Pandian, Catriona McPherson, and Terry Shames as they discuss their fascinating writing experiences and most recent publications. There will be a book-signing session for each author after the forum and Q&A session. For more information, call the library at (510) 577-3971 or visit its website www.sanleandro.org under “Events Calendar.”
Murder Mystery Author Event
Saturday, Jan 26
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
San Leandro Main Library
300 Estudillo Ave, San Leandro
(510) 577-3971
www.sanleandro.org under Events Calendar
‘Wilder than Wild’
Submitted by Alice Kim
The San Leandro Public Library invites the community to the screening of “Wilder than Wild: Fire, Forests, and the Future,” followed by a panel discussion with the filmmakers on Thursday, January 31. “Wilder than Wild” is an hour documentary that reveals how fire suppression and climate change have exposed western forests to large, high-severity wildfires. Greenhouse gases released from these wild fires contribute to global warming. Highlighting these issues with personal experience, filmmaker Kevin White takes the audience on a journey from the Rim Fire of 2013 to the wine country wildfires of 2017. “Wilder than Wild” won the award for Best San Francisco Bay Area Environmental Feature film at the 2018 Green Film Festival. For more information, call the library at (510) 577-3971 or visit www.sanleandro.org under “Events Calendar.”
“Wilder than Wild” Film Screening & Discussion
Thursday, Jan 31
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
San Leandro Public Library – Main Library
300 Estudillo Ave, San Leandro
(510) 577-3971
www.sanleandro.org under “Events Calendar”
Free admission; no registration required
New research tool for library patrons
Article and photo submitted by Erik Sanjurjo
Yewno, Inc., a leading provider of artificial intelligence solutions has announced that Santa Clara County Library District (SCCLD) has adopted its Yewno Discover platform for patron use in its libraries. Santa Clara County is the first public library system in the nation to adopt Discover in all its libraries. Yewno Discover is an intuitive, cutting-edge research tool, powered by Artificial intelligence. From high schoolers to lifelong learners, SCCLD patrons will appreciate researching subjects using Discover due to its ease of use.
Customers can use Discover to query a concept of interest to them, and then explore millions of possible connections between related concepts. Once the user has identified related concepts of interest, Discover will surface relevant content from its vast collection of scholarly articles, books, and databases. It is a highly visual tool that makes research easily navigable and fun while ensuring comprehensive and credible coverage.
“From school project research to health inquiries, Discover puts the power of information navigation in the users’ hands,” said Ruth Pickering, co-founder and chief BD & strategy officer, Yewno. “In addition to helping patrons obtain the knowledge they are seeking, it can uncover new connections they might have not otherwise made.”
SCCLD customers can learn more and access Yewno Discover at www.sccl.org/discover.
Senior softball players soon to be at bat
Submitted by Ann and Joe Farias
Get those softball gloves oiled and ready, it’s almost time to hit the field and fill up the bases. The Hayward Area Senior Softball program is gearing up for the 2019 season.
Sponsored by the Hayward Area Recreation District (HARD), the league, is divided into three age divisions: 50-plus, 60-plus and 70-plus comprised of four to eight teams with a minimum of 15 players. Games are played Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings usually starting around 9:30 and finished before noon. A general informational meeting for all divisions is planned for 10 a.m. Thursday, January 24 at San Felipe Park, 2058 D Street, Hayward.
Players new to the league will need to attend at least two practice session on the following dates: February 4, 11, 18 at 9:00 a.m. The practice sessions will be held at the Castro Valley Community Center, 18988 Lake Chabot Road, Castro Valley. The league is open to both men and women. Any woman over 45 can play in any of the three leagues.
After the practice sessions a draft will be held to form the teams. The leagues will begin play on March 19 at the Oliver Fields on Hesperian Boulevard in Hayward. The leagues continue through September when playoffs take place.
The cost is $85 for 50 and 60-plus leagues and $45 for players in the 70-plus league. Add $10 for players who live outside the HARD district. Player applications can be downloaded from the league website at www.hardseniorsoftball.com. For details, call HARD at (510) 881-6700.
Hayward Area Senior Softball
Thursday, Jan. 24
10 a.m.
Informational meeting
San Felipe Park
2058 D St., Hayward
(510) 881-6700
www.hardseniorsoftball.com
Shape Our Fremont
City to consider changing general plan for three housing proposals
In the coming weeks, the Fremont Planning Commission and City Council will decide if they want to consider General Plan Amendment (GPA) Requests to change the Land Use Designations associated with three proposals to build a total of 552 new housing units. These decisions are part of an initial screening process to determine if the city wants to consider making the land use changes or not, and what the impacts on the community might be. Comments from residents are an important part of that process. If you've ever wanted to get involved in Fremont's growth, this is the time.
Ohlone Frontage
The first, and largest, proposal comes from Ohlone College, which has leased three parcels of college property fronting on Mission Boulevard to a developer who proposes to build 275 two-story rental units and about 6,500 square feet of commercial space. The college would retain ownership of the land and receive lease payments for its use. The lease period is 99 years with options to extend it. If the proposal is approved, the land could not be used by the college for any purpose in the future. The college has requested that Fremont consider making a General Plan Amendment to change the Land Use Designation from Public Facility to Residential-Medium for the two parcels south of Witherly Lane, and from Public Facility to Commercial-Town Center for a portion of the parcel north of Witherly. The parcels extend several hundred feet back into the college and along Mission to Pine Street. The Planning Commission or the City Council may choose to delay deciding on this GPA Request until the independent Mission San Jose Commercial Study has been reviewed. That study is expected to be completed in late February.
The Golden Pines
A few miles away, the owner of the property at 45430 Sabercat Road proposes to build 92 apartment or condominium units in one building and 90 senior suites in an adjacent building on a portion of the site. Both buildings would be three-stories tall with a parking garage at the ground level and two stories of residential units above. This land is on the northeast corner of Sabercat and Pine at the base of the bluff near I-680. It is north of the multi-story Mission Hills development currently under construction near Sabercat and Durham. Two branches of the Hayward Earthquake Fault pass through the site and straddle the proposed building area.
The property owner has requested that Fremont consider making a General Plan Amendment to change the Land Use Designation of a portion of the property from Open Space-General to Residential-Medium. Several existing structures would be demolished. The remainder of the property would remain undeveloped as Open Space.
Oakmont of Fremont
Finally, Oakmont Senior Living proposes to build a three-story building with 100 assisted living units at 4546 and 4588 Peralta Boulevard in Centerville. This is located where Peralta curves around to Central. All the living units would be licensed by the State of California as a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly. Oakmont has requested that Fremont consider making a General Plan Amendment to change the Land Use Designation of the properties from Industrial-Service to Residential-Medium. Two existing industrial buildings would be demolished, and the businesses would have to relocate. This land is within one of the last industrial-service areas in the Centerville and North Fremont Community Areas that are designated for occupancies such as auto repair and servicing, equipment rental and storage, self-storage facilities, printing shops, and other small-scale industrial operations.
Get Involved
The General Plan is an important document that defines how and where Fremont will develop in the coming years. Amending the plan to add over 550 dwellings on land that was supposed to be used for other purposes could have significant impacts on traffic, schools, businesses, parks, water supplies, and the quality of life throughout the City. Residents are encouraged to email comments about these General Plan Amendment Requests to Fremont City Staff Planner Bill Roth at broth@fremont.gov. Please send a separate email for each GPA request. Residents may also speak at the Planning Commission and City Council meetings to share their views on the proposals. The Planning Commission will make its recommendations on January 31, and the City Council will decide to let the proposals proceed or not on February 19. All meetings will be in the City Council Chambers at 3300 Capitol Avenue.
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For information about these GPA Requests and other residential development proposals, visit www.ShapeOurFremont.com
Police recruiting for teen explorer program
Submitted by Fremont PD
Teenagers who are interested in seeing first-hand how law enforcement works are invited to apply for the Teen Explorer program sponsored by the Fremont Police Department.
Explorers donate between 5 and 20 volunteer hours each month by participating in various department activities including riding with officers, traffic control, giving police department building tours and visiting schools.
To qualify, participants must be between 14 and 18 years old and a U.S. citizen. They also must be enrolled in high school or college with a minimum 2.5 grade point average. Explorers are required to attend weekly meetings and physical training sessions. Those accepted into the program must attend a weeklong Explorer Academy training session in San Diego during their first summer as an explorer. It’s usually held during the end of July or early August.
Applications for the Teen Explorer Program are being accepted through Friday, February 1. They can be sent by mail or dropped off at the front desk of the Fremont Police Department, 2000 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont – care of Community Service Officer Lauren Baca. For details, call (510) 790-6691 or visit the program’s webpage at http://www.fremontpolice.org/Explorers.
Teen Explorer Program
Application deadline: 5 p.m. Feb 1
Fremont Police Explorers
2000 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont, CA 94537
(c/o CSO L.Baca)
(510) 790-6691
www.fremontpolice.org/index.aspx?NID=175
Thank You
The Salvation Army Tri-Cities Corps wishes to thank everyone for their support during 2018. Nationwide, the organization served 23 million people – the homeless, the hungry and families struggling to escape poverty. The generosity of local communities gives people living in fear a reason to keep fighting and the most vulnerable, light. Thank you for choosing to fight for good.
Our annual Red Kettle Campaign and fundraising Kickoff Dinner account for part of our budget but the unstinting, year-round dedication of donors, sponsors, volunteers and employees enables us to serve Fremont, Newark and Union City.
In 2018, the Tri-Cities Corps delivered 30 community programs and social services to all age groups to satisfy the basic needs of food, clothing and shelter. These ranged from after-school activities to senior activities, day-care, summer day camps, distribution of back-packs and school supplies, food pantry and emergency food bags, music programs, exercise classes, assistance with utility bills, plus seasonal programs and pastoral care.
At Thanksgiving, we distributed 274 food boxes. At Christmas, we provided 287 food boxes, chickens and turkeys totaling $29,120. Thank you to the organizations and businesses that participated in our Angel Tree Program, which assisted 310 families with toys, or organized their own toy drives in support of the Tri-Cities Corps.
We are truly blessed by our community partners who assist us in our work. Without them, our food pantry’s shelves would be bare, programs would be cut and our Red Kettle fundraising efforts would fall short of what is required to continue services in the New Year.
Once again, thank you for your past support. We look forward to your ongoing help so that, in turn, we may assist those in most need during 2019.
Lieutenants David & Sharon Kim
The Salvation Army Tri-Cities Corps & Community Center
Newark