10-1-19 Articles

Take a riveting ride to ‘42nd Street’

By Hugo Vera

 

Newark Memorial High School’s Stage 1 Theatre’s production of “42nd Street” is a ‘can’t-miss’ spectacle that perfectly captures all the glitz and glamor of 1930’s Broadway as seen through the eyes of idealistic performers trying to survive the Great Depression.

 

Director Michael Sally and choreographer Gary Ferguson have created a Broadway-caliber masterpiece that locals can enjoy in their own backyard for far less money. The musical follows the plight and journey to stardom of Peggy Sawyer, expertly played by Tori Speed. Sawyer trades the bleak and mundane life of living in her native Allentown, Pennsylvania for the cultural hedonism and excitement of New York City to become part of the musical “Pretty Lady.

 

At the helm of the musical’s production is the ruthless, but eccentric director Julian Marsh (Christopher Fabbro Smith) who must please his star actress/singer, Dorothy Brock (Tamarin Ythier). Ythier’s masterful portrayal of Brock is beyond exceptional as her character struggles with the adversity that comes with being a veteran stage actress stuck in everlasting romantic conflict.

 

Brock is expected by Marsh to carry “Pretty Lady” to meteoric heights, but the sudden return of old flame Pat Denning (Devin Adler) conflicts with her loveless and career-driven engagement to a southern oil tycoon. As the story progresses, Brock ultimately chooses the genuine love she has for Denning over the objectifying-expectations of her betrothed. All the while Sawyer experiences true love herself when gradually she’s wooed by costar Billy Lawlor (Geoffrey Silk).

 

Rehearsals leading up to the climactic opening night of “Pretty Lady” intensify as Brock suffers an ankle injury that leaves her incapacitated. Meanwhile, Sawyer grows tired of Marsh’s constant verbal abuse and decides to return to Allentown all the while not realizing that she’s leaving when she’s needed most. It then becomes up to Brock and Marsh to put aside their differences as well as their own egos as they humble themselves before Sawyer, who agrees to take over for Brock. Given just 36 hours to learn all of the leading lines, songs and dances before showtime, Sawyer digs deep to give a penultimate performance that’s as every bit electrifying as that of her predecessor.

 

Audiences will be blown away by the amazing synchrony of each ensemble dance. Dancers of a diverse range of ages and physiques dart across the stage performing kicks, spins, jumps and twirls. The music ensemble below the stage provides a rich and authentic sound that provides a refreshing change of pace from musical audiences used to hearing playback soundtracks.

 

Speed and Ythier present astounding on-stage chemistry as Sawyer and Brock go from bickering rivals to becoming friends as Brock is reunited with Denning for good and Sawyer finally kisses Lawlor. Other notable performances include Leslie Newport’s representation of the charismatic Maggie Jones and Devin Adler as the cutthroat Andy Lee.

 

Music director Del Quan does a superb job of conducting her wind and brass ensemble to give audiences a musical sensation that harkens back to the glory days of Vaudeville and the Broadway show tune era.

 

In closing, “42nd Street” is the must-see theater event of the east bay this fall. For a fraction of the price audiences would pay at the SHN Orpheum Theater, playgoers will be treated to a show that doesn’t match, but exceeds the quality of its “higher-tier” rivals. If you’re looking for a night of amazement and distraction from the gritty world around us, “42nd Street” is without question the show for you.

 

42nd Street

Saturday, Sep 28 – Sunday, Oct 13

Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 2:30pm

Stage 1 Theatre at Newark Memorial High School

39375 Cedar Blvd, Newark

(510) 791-0287

www.stage1theatre.org

Tickets: Adults $28, Students 17 and under $15, College students $25, Seniors 62+ $25

 

 

Santa Clara Valley Agricultural Plan receives recognition

Submitted by Janice Rombeck

 

The Santa Clara Valley Agricultural Plan (Ag Plan) has been selected by the American Planning Association (APA) California Chapter as the winner of the statewide 2019 Innovation in Green Community Planning Award of Excellence. The award honors efforts to create more sustainable and green communities that reduce impacts on the natural environment and improve environmental quality. Santa Clara County and the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority, co-authors of the Ag Plan, were presented with the award at the 2019 APA state conference on September 16 in Santa Barbara.

 

“We realized that we simply could not lose any more of our precious agricultural land that provides economic diversity for the County and puts food on our tables,’’ said Santa Clara County Supervisor Dave Cortese. “And we knew we needed to protect the environment for generations to come.”

 

The Ag Plan, adopted by the Board of Supervisors in January 2018, is a strategic plan that provides a toolkit of policies and programs to curb the conversion of over 28,000 acres of viable farmland and rangeland to sprawl development. In the past 30 years alone, Santa Clara County has lost more than 21,000 acres of its working lands to development.

 

To read the Ag Plan and for more information, visit https://www.sccgov.org/sites/dpd/PlansOrdinances/Studies/Pages/CAPP.aspx or call the Office of Cortese at (408) 299-5030.

 

 

Alameda County Teacher of the Year awards

 

This is the 30th year that the Alameda County Office of Education will honor our exceptional public school teachers through the “Teacher of the Year awards.” This is an opportunity to recognize extraordinary dedication and commitment, educational innovation, and student learning. Alameda County’s education community of more than 10,000 teachers are lighting the future with dedicated service and support for the youth of one of the most diverse counties in California. A list of honorees is available on the event’s website at: https://allevents.in/castro%20valley#.

 

Tickets are $25 general admission, free for students. Sales end October 2.

 

Alameda County Teacher of the Year Awards

Thursday, Oct 3

6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Center for the Arts

19501 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley

(510) 889-8961

https://allevents.in/castro%20valley#

 

 

Art of Hospitality: long term customer relationships

By Asok Chatterjee

 

Excelling in customer service is an important ingredient, perhaps the most important one, for a professional. Whether we do it well or not reflects not only on our individual career paths, but perhaps drives the success of the businesses we are a part of. However, being able to serve our customers well is often easier said than done. Building long-term customer relationships starts with a single step taken the right way, and then it needs to be developed over time.

 

Small Business Development Center (SBDC) of Northern California hosted a workshop on Art of Hospitality on September 20. The event, which took place at Newark Campus of Ohlone College, was designed to help restaurants, bars, winery staff, culinary retailers, and retail businesses. The goal was to stimulate service awareness, skills and energy—and ultimately educate about benefits of delivering high impact customer service. City of Newark and Newark Chamber of Commerce extended their support to promote the workshop. Attendees included people from Lion’s Groceries, various restaurants, Recreation Department of the City of Newark and food truck operators.

 

The workshop was led by Holly Stiel, a service philosopher. Stiel’s method of training is based on the practices and principles of the world-class concierge. Stiel began the session by stating that hospitality is an art. The most important takeaway from the workshop was recognition that under the surface of “business needs,” there are inevitably important “human needs.” Customers want to feel appreciated, acknowledged, understood, and respected.

 

Participants agreed that art of apology is often a very powerful tool in the hospitality business, so is sense of humor. When done right, it transforms negativity into a positive emotion. For a job well done, serving professionals enjoy a genuine “Thank You” from customers as a feel-good payback. This “other paycheck” was aptly named by Stiel as psychic salary.

 

 

Auto burglars targeting SUVs

Fremont PD

 

Fremont Police Department officials are reporting an uptick in auto burglary and vandalism incidents involving SUVs where owners have used privacy screens to cover or conceal the vehicle’s rear cargo area.

 

In most cases there is no reported loss of property, but damage to the vehicle (and costs) can be significant. Suspects are merely guessing something of value may be hidden and breaking into the vehicle to check. Two vehicles were broken into over the weekend of September 7, one in a residential driveway and the other in Mission Peak staging area.

 

To help combat auto burglary crimes, Fremont Police Department was recently awarded specific funds, which will be used for adding more surveillance cameras and stepping up outreach programs in coordination with five other cities in upcoming months.

 

Meanwhile, here are tips to follow to help stem auto burglary crimes:

• Remove all valuables from parked cars, especially laptop computers and high-end electronics
• Share this information with friends, neighbors and co-workers and on social media
• Be vigilant and report suspicious vehicles and activity
• Install video surveillance
• For those who routinely travel or use their vehicle for work, consider purchasing a trunk storage case that can be locked and secured

 

To report suspicious activity, please contact Fremont Police Department at (510) 790-6800 extension 3. To report a crime in progress, dial 911.

 

 

BART Police Log

Submitted by Les Mensinger and BART PD

 

Saturday, September 21

• At 5:23 p.m. a woman identified by police as Regina Pridday, 38, of San Mateo was arrested at Warm Springs/South Fremont station on an outstanding $10,000 warrant.

 

Monday, September 23

• At 11:18 a.m. a man identified by police as Michael Lim, 28, of San Francisco was arrested at Union City station on an outstanding $10,000 warrant from the El Cerrito Police Department and a $2,500 warrant from the Pacifica Police Department. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

Tuesday, September 24

• At 9:07 a.m. a man identified by police as Jeremy Gordon, 48, of Oakland was arrested at Warm Springs/South Fremont station on an outstanding no bail for burglary issued by the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

• At 1:48 p.m. a man identified by police as Joey Lovato, 44, of Oakland was arrested at Hayward station on suspicion of burglary, receiving stolen property, possession of burglary tools and probation violation. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

Wednesday, September 25

• At 9:12 a.m. a man identified by police as Anton Latigue, 30, of Livermore was arrested at Warm Springs/South Fremont station on an outstanding $40,000 warrant for driving under the influence. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

• At 11:15 a.m. a man identified by police as David Johnson, 49, of San Francisco was arrested at San Leandro station on suspicion of attempted robbery. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

 

What’s on the Horizon for Real Estate Investment?

Christina Briggs, economic development director

 

They say that there is no crystal ball when it comes to real estate. Perhaps the next best thing is the Urban Land Institute’s (ULI) annual Emerging Trends in Real Estate report, which was released and discussed at the ULI Fall Meeting in Washington, D.C. This year’s meeting took advantage of being held in our nation’s capital by showcasing a variety of development project case studies, including Amazon’s proposed HQ2 project at National Landing. It also brought in experts from across the country to weigh in on everything from moving the needle on housing affordability to Opportunity Zone deal velocity and technology disrupting retail.

 

For cities, tracking real estate is an important way to gain insight on how a local investment pipeline may grow or shrink from one year to the next; consequently, how budgets’ direct and indirect tax revenues may be impacted in the long term.

 

According to ULI, these are the top trends to watch as we move toward 2020:

• As this economic cycle becomes the longest on record, real estate will continue to perform (even in a downturn), but its rate will slow, and its demand will soften.
• The pressure of capital can be powerful; however, hasty deployment, investing in the wrong asset, or not understanding the full selection of investment choices may be perilous in the coming decade. Real estate is predicted to continue to be a strong alternative.
• Smart developers will increase their specialization in a broader list of market types. Instead of being measured by just size or growth trajectory, traditional markets will begin to be defined by other metrics, like “capital magnets” and “treasures ripe for discovery.” Think Oakland/East Bay or Salt Lake City.
• Although the challenges that arise when developing housing seem insurmountable, real estate remains optimistic and will adapt out of necessity by continuously identifying solutions to add supply. Meanwhile, other stakeholders like large employers are tackling the issue themselves, which could create an interesting disruption in the traditional investor/developer model.
• Technology is ironically enabling a major shift toward more community-based real estate (think green markets, urban plazas) with newer generations. “Collaborative consumption” is playing out in offices, residences, and a litany of other settings to the point that older generations are also adopting this mindset.
• ULI has coined a new term: “hipsturbia.” Need I say more? While you can take the hipster out of the urban center (as lifestyle changes with families and pets), you can’t take urban amenities away from them. Thus, the influx of more contemporary retail/dining/service concepts is taking hold in the ’burbs.
• Because of innovation in healthcare and resulting increased longevity, the baby boomer generation is working longer. Of course, this affects housing demand trends, but it also impacts office and workplace environments that need to cater to a truly multi-generational workforce.
• There is an already high and growing focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors when it comes to real estate investment. Millennials and younger generations are ultimately driving this phenomenon because the support or influence they can wield over projects is causing investors to increasingly consider ESG when making decisions.
• Technology is disrupting real estate and has been for some time — particularly in industrial and retail. Growing automation and digitization are both speeding up the ability to produce, analyze, and create new operations requirements for organizations, including cybersecurity and data science.
• The story of federal investment in infrastructure continues to be a sad one. As a result, cities and local agencies are picking up more of the slack. ULI highlighted that local governments and metro regions are demonstrating leadership in deploying capital funds like before.

 

 

Census workers walking neighborhoods

Submitted by the City of Hayward

 

The first major operation of the 2020 Census is under way in Hayward and across the country as U.S. Census Bureau employees are walking neighborhoods to check the accuracy of addresses in the Census Bureau’s address list. This address canvass will continue through mid-October.

 

For identification purposes, Census Bureau employees will have badges and briefcases indicating their affiliation with the Census Bureau. They will knock on doors and ask a few simple questions to verify the address and any additional living quarters on the property for inclusion in the census.

 

Once every 10 years, the United States is mandated by the Constitution to count every resident. The data collected determines the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives. It also guides each year the distribution of billions of dollars in federal funds locally.

 

The actual 2020 Census count of residents will take place between March and July 2020. For more information, visit the Census Bureau website at www.census.gov/. General information about Census 2020 in Alameda County is posted at www.acgov.org/census2020/.

 

 

New police chief makes contact with community

By Stephanie Gertsch

 

At a recent neighborhood alert general meeting on September 25, Hayward’s newly-minted Chief of Police Toney Chaplin engaged with community members and answered concerns about the direction the police department will take in the future.

 

As a longtime Hayward resident who has raised a daughter in the city, Chaplin said he was happy to be serving in his own backyard, calling Hayward a “big city with a small-town feel.” He said he has inherited an excellent staff, citing a statistic that the homicide rate in Hayward has gone down from 13 in 2016 to only two so far in 2019. However, new housing in the area means the police service will need to keep growing to serve the community.

 

The Hayward Police Department continually reviews and updates their policies, especially relating to use of force. Chaplin also wants to focus on suicide prevention among police officers. This is especially relevant after a Hayward officer took his own life in September.

 

Questions raised by the community centered on several topics. One was the current 18 vacancies in the Hayward Police Department. Community members asked whether special bonuses might be given to encourage applicants. Chief Chaplin, however, favored longer term solutions, such as good working conditions, competitive pay and benefits, that would not only attract new officers but keep them long term. Due to low unemployment in the Bay Area, many other departments are struggling to fill positions, including Chaplin’s previous area, San Francisco.

 

Currently, there are three people training in the Hayward police academy, with five more starting in November, and more expected next year. However, Chaplin wants to scrutinize applicants carefully as hiring a new officer means “you’re putting a lot of power in someone’s hands.”

 

Other concerns revolved around traffic, theft and homelessness issues in Hayward’s busy downtown area, including B Street. Businesses such as Peet’s Coffee and Safeway are closing one entrance to prevent shoplifting and laptop theft. There are also reports of reckless bikers and skateboarders on sidewalks, and aggressive homeless people yelling at pedestrians. Hopefully, the new navigation center (administered by Bay Area Community Services) will be able to address the homelessness issue and connect people with addiction and mental health services.

 

Some community members thanked Chaplin and the department for their good work and assistance the department has given in the past.

 

Chief Chaplin encouraged the community to keep coming forward with feedback and concerns. Seeing the large number of people who came to the meeting, Chaplin remarked, “This is true crime fighting. Because the police can’t do it on their own.”

 

 

Volunteers needed

Submitted by Ivy Wu

 

The City of Fremont has launched the CleanStart Mobile Hygiene Unit in our community to provide much-needed shower and laundry services to our homeless neighbors. The public is encouraged to sign up to help. A maximum of three volunteers per shift are needed. Each volunteer will assist clients to prepare to take showers and/or assist with laundering clothing. The city has taken every precaution for the health and safety of the volunteers. To volunteer, contact Jerry Lovejoy at specialprojects@cityserve.org or call (510)796-7378.

 

CleanStart Mobile Hygiene Volunteer Sign Up

(510)796-7378

specialprojects@cityserve.org

 

 

Local community participates in Climate Change Strike

Submitted by Diana Rohini LaVigne

 

Nearly 100 residents and students showed their support at the Climate Change Strike on September 19. Held behind Thornton Junior High School, the Fremont demonstration, led by Thornton students, was part of a global initiative. Fremont Vice Mayor Dr. Raj Salwan, school board member Dianne Jones and Fremont City Council member Vinnie Bacon attended. Niles Discovery Church members and Pastor Jeff Spenser showed their support as well.

 

Salwan spoke about several existing programs in Fremont and praised Thornton students for their effort to raise awareness. He fielded questions from attendees about the city’s direction, leadership, and current initiatives. It was an opportunity for community engagement and communicate the city’s efforts to combat climate change.

 

 

Grab a cup of coffee with a cop

 

As part of “National Coffee With a Cop Day” on Wednesday, October 2, several law enforcement agencies will meet with local community members, students and business owners in a meet-and-greet over coffee. The goal of the informal gatherings is to let people ask questions or voice neighborhood concerns with members of their local police force in a relaxed setting. Area participation in Coffee With a Cop Day includes but may not be limited to the following:

 

• Alameda County Sheriff’s Office/Crime Prevention Unit

9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

JP’s Family Restaurant & Sports Lounge

3600 Castro Valley Blvd., Castro Valley

(510) 876-5151

 

• Fremont Police Department

5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Suju’s Coffee

4949 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont

(510) 790-6800

 

• Hayward Police Department

2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Downtown Hayward, corner of B St. and Foothill Blvd.

(510) 293-7151

 

• Milpitas Police Department

10 a.m. – 12 noon

Starbucks Coffee

128 N. Milpitas Blvd., Milpitas

(408) 586-2400

 

• Union City Police Department

4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Texas Roadhouse

32115 Union Landing, Union City

(510) 471-3232

 

 

Cougars Report

Submitted by Timothy Hess

 

The Newark Memorial High School Cross Country teams opened the Mission Valley Athletic League (MVAL) league season on September 26th with convincing victories over American High School (Fremont). In the Varsity Girls race Senior Jessica Novak and Sophomore Becky Juarez ran side by side, both crossing the finish line in 21:43 to lead the Varsity Girls to a 23-38 win in the league opener. All 10 of Newark’s Varsity Girls finished ahead of Americans #3 runner in that race.

 

In the Varsity Boys race, the Cougars dominated by a score of 17-44 as they swept the top four finishers: Cole Kendall, Muhammed Ahmed, Angelo Frese and Andrew Arcos.

 

JV Boys result: Newark won 15-47

JV Girls result: Newark won 15-49

F/S Boys result: Newark won 21-40

 

 

Funding for Alameda Creek restoration project secured

Submitted by Jeff Barbosa

 

Supporters of a project to restore Alameda Creek and build up sediment near the bay lands to address the threat of sea level rise joined Senator Bob Wieckowski (D-Fremont) on September 26 for a ceremonial check presentation next to the creek. Wieckowski championed the project in the California State Legislature and secured $31.4 million in funding.

 

“We are here to show how moving sediment to the bay lands can help us prepare for sea level rise in a smart, natural way that benefits the public and wildlife habitat,” said Wieckowski, chair of the Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Subcommittee on Resources, Environmental Protection, Energy and Transportation. “This collaborative project has another important element: I believe it can be a model for so many other areas of our state that are also threatened by sea level rise. What we learn through this project should also be replicated across our state by communities facing similar problems.”

 

Alameda Creek is the largest local tributary that feeds the bay. But sediment remains stuck in the channel and is unable to make it to bay lands where it is needed for marsh and mudflat accretion.

 

As part of the Resilient by Design Bay Area Challenge (a competition where people from across the world and 90 different organizations create projects to protect the Bay Area from sea level rise), designers on team Public Sediment showed how the project could work to benefit the public and wildlife. Architects of the project said by reconnecting sediment flows from Alameda Creek to the marshes near the bay, the project creates an ecological infrastructure to adapt to sea level rise.

 

Senator Wieckowski represents the 10th District, which includes southern Alameda County and parts of northern Santa Clara County.

 

 

Cal State East Bay president announces retirement

Submitted by Kimberly Hawkins

 

In an announcement on September 20, Leroy M. Morishita, president of California State University East Bay, said he plans to retire at the end of the 2019-20 academic year. Morishita has led the university since 2011 and is the fifth president since its founding more than 60 years ago.

 

“With our deserving students, the great work of our faculty and staff, and ongoing support of alumni and others, we have flourished and met the potential I knew existed when I began my presidency. My 40 years as a California State employee has taken me on a journey I could not have imagined. I thank all of you for helping to make this the best job I ever had,” he said in a statement to the university community.

 

At the time of his retirement on June 30, 2020 more than 40,000 graduates, about 50 percent of whom are the first in their families to attend college, will have received diplomas signed by Morishita. He also led the university through a three-year conversion project from a quarter-term to semester schedule. Under his direction, Cal State East Bay has seen its highest-ever fundraising, exceeding the target with $65 million raised during the Rising in the East campaign, which ends later this year.

 

“My goal to build the CSUEB community — across Hayward, Concord, Oakland, the East Bay and beyond — has been to provide the vision for our staff, faculty, alumni and community partners to work collaboratively to teach, to envision the future and to provide the support services needed to assist our students to dream, soar, be successful in their endeavors and become socially responsible citizens in the world,” he said.

 

Morishita started his career in the California State University (CSU) system in 1978 as a counseling coordinator and counselor for the Educational Opportunity Program at San Francisco State University, where he continued his career. Before joining Cal State East Bay, he was executive vice president for administration and finance and chief financial officer at San Francisco State University.

 

“For over four decades and at two California State University campuses, Leroy Morishita has worked diligently to improve educational opportunities for many thousands of students throughout the Bay Area,” said Timothy P. White, chancellor of the California State University system. “He has consistently provided a valuable perspective on systemwide issues, and his experience and vision proved especially helpful as we have created a more sustainable financial model for the CSU. I applaud and am thankful for President Morishita’s long-standing dedication to the CSU, as well as his service to the people of California.”

 

Morishita’s influence is widespread throughout the state and the Bay Area. He chairs the President’s Commission for the systemwide CSU STEM-NET affinity group and is a member of the CSU Commission on Online Education and the Presidents’ Commission for the Program for Education & Research in Biotechnology. He serves as chair of the California Campus Compact Executive Board and a director of the National Campus Compact Board and is on the Higher Education Advisory Committee for the Public Policy Institute of California.

 

Locally, Morishita is a founding member of the Chabot Space and Science Center Leadership Council, a trustee of the Institute of Buddhist Studies in Berkeley and serves on the board of directors of the Bay Area Council and the East Bay Leadership Council. He is a member of the Executive Committee and a board member of the East Bay Economic Development Alliance. He chairs the board of trustees of the JA Health Benefits Trust.

 

In a statement, California State University Chancellor Timothy P. White said the CSU will soon launch a national search for Morishita’s successor. Under university policy, the chairman of the CSU Trustees, Adam Day, and Chancellor White will select a committee made up of campus and community stakeholders who will be publicly announced at a later date. Campus and community input will be sought in an open forum held on campus.

 

 

Daisy’s Day meets needs of underserved pets

Submitted by Karin Conn

 

Many want to make a difference in the world by supporting underserved communities. However, it’s easy to forget that sometimes members of those communities might have fur, paws, and whiskers. Those who struggle to afford healthcare for the human members of their families can be even more lost when it comes to pets. Individuals like Newark resident Mary Paglieri and organizations like Palo Alto Humane Society (PAHS) are working to serve the animal members of our Bay Area community.

 

Mary Paglieri is Behavioral Ecologist and human-animal conflict specialist who has worked with the Palo Alto Humane Society for the last 20 years to mediate and set up TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return) programs for PAHS volunteers. She says, “PAHS is an absolutely wonderful organization. Without their help, I would not have been able to personally rescue and help as many beleaguered creatures out there as I have. For the sake of the animals, I hope they will be around for a very long time to come.”

 

Paglieri is a practitioner of applied sciences, with 20 years of experience working with diverse species, and communities to resolve conflicts, protect livelihoods, and promote species conservation. She designs behavioral strategies to naturally modify food conditioned, maladaptive wildlife behaviors that are problematic in the human landscape. She currently cares for 10 feral cat colonies spread over the Alameda and San Mateo Counties with support from PAHS.

 

Those who also wish to serve the animal community are invited to attend the third annual “Daisy’s Day” gala on Saturday, October 13. Daisy’s Day is named after a shelter dog Daisy, who fortunately was adopted, but needed medical attention. The fundraiser will feature auctions, wine, and a delicious vegan lunch.

 

Daisy’s Day

Sunday, October 13

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Quadrus Conference Center

2400 Sand Hill Rd. #204, Menlo Park

(650) 424-1901

https://www.paloaltohumane.org/event/daisys-day2019/

Tickets: $75

 

 

Police program aimed at deaf community

Submitted by Fremont PD

 

Enrollment is underway through Tuesday, October 8 for the Deaf Community Police Academy. The eight-hour course, aimed at the deaf community, is designed to give participants a working knowledge of the police department with an overall goal of supporting the concept of community members and police working together to enhance quality of life in Fremont

 

The class meets 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with a one-hour lunch break) on Saturday, November 2 and is limited to 20 students. Among topics covered will be police traffic unit details, use of social media, text to 911 and fraud/identity theft. To be eligible for the academy, participants must be at least 18 years old, and either be a resident of Fremont or work in Fremont. Those selected for the academy are expected to attend all day. There is no participation fee.

 

All eligible candidates are subject to a records check. A prior conviction will not automatically disqualify an applicant and will be considered only as it relates to the academy program. This program was not designed for police officer candidates. It is an overview of the police department for the purpose of community members.

 

Because space is limited, it’s a good idea to submit an application as early as possible before the October 8 deadline. Applications are available online at www.fremontpolice.gov/CommunityAcademyOnlineApplication. Those accepted will be notified by mid-October. Anyone with questions about the program can email Jodi Goralczyk at JGoralczyk@fremont.gov.

 

Deaf Community Police Academy

Saturday, Nov 2

8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Fremont Police Department

2000 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

 (510) 790-6800

www.fremontpolice.org/CommunityAcademyOnlineApplication

Free; applications required

 

 

Major Funding Drive

By Dennis Waespi

East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors

 

Opened in 1974, the Environmental Education Center in Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley has been the venue for countless natural history programs and special events ever since. Together with nearby Jewel Lake, the center has provided diverse nature education programs for schoolchildren and other visitors of all ages.

 

However, the center has now neared the end of its useful life and needs substantial repair or replacement. Problems include generally poor condition and lack of compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Moreover, Jewel Lake has been severely impacted by silting and requires immediate work to restore it to its former status as wildlife habitat.

 

Accordingly, the East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors has voted unanimously to approve and support a multi-million-dollar capital fundraising campaign by the Regional Parks Foundation, with the goal of restoring and improving both educational resources. The Regional Parks Foundation was established in 1969 and is a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization, which raises private funds in support of the park district’s programs and land acquisitions. This year is its 50th anniversary.

 

During the past decade, the foundation has provided more than $20 million in direct support to the district for youth development programs and historic projects. Examples include four visitor center enhancements and support for the Parks Express Bus Program, which enables low-cost transportation to regional parks for senior centers and inner-city children.

 

All capital projects identified for financial support from the foundation are approved in advance by all or a combination of the district general manager, park district board, and parks foundation board of directors. With approval by the park district board, funds available from the Measure WW bond issue will be used to finance a planning process including an architectural design. The goal is a newly refurbished Environmental Education Center and a restored Jewel Lake that will serve future generations of park visitors.

 

Park district board member Whitney Dotson, who represents the ward, including Albany, Berkeley, Richmond, and San Pablo, has announced that he will retire at the end of this year. Dotson was elected to the park district board in November 2008. He is a longtime resident of Parchester Village in Richmond and a well-known community activist.

 

He is a leader of the North Richmond Shoreline Open Space Alliance, a group of community and environmental organizations and individuals working to save access to North Richmond’s shoreline open space. The Dotson Family Marsh, a recently restored wetland at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, is named in honor of Whitney and his family, in recognition of their long-term efforts to restore and protect the area’s natural features.

 

East Bay Regional Park’s lifeguard services have closed out the season at the park district’s 12 guarded swim facilities. This is the park’s 10th consecutive year without a drowning fatality in lifeguarded waters.

 

Some statistics: almost 548,000 people visited swim areas, of whom 29,545 were loaned lifejackets. There were 108,532 preventive actions to help swimmers, 56 water rescues, and 381people received first aid.

 

The lifeguard service also provided swim lessons to 1,823 participants. The service trained 410 youngsters through the Junior Lifeguard program and another 25 as Junior Lifeguard Aides. It partnered with the city of Pittsburg to train lifeguards, with 12-20 graduates per year; it partnered with San Leandro High School to train 60 students in CPR and AED skills, among other community outreach efforts.

 

Celebrations of the park district’s 85th anniversary are winding down, but remember that Fridays are free at the regional parks through the end of the year. For information on park district programs, fees and policies, visit www.ebparks.org.

 

 

Call for job seekers

Submitted by Rudy Torres

 

DeVry University and JobFair X invite the public, and DeVry University current students and alumni, to San Francisco Job Fair on Monday, October 7. Meet with hiring managers from some of the best companies in San Francisco, including Amazon and AT&T. A total of 20 employers are anticipated to be present at the event.

 

Candidates are encouraged to bring plenty of resumes to hand out to hiring managers; and bring stationery supplies such as pens, paper, business cards, etc. Food will be available for purchase at Food Truck Mafia, which will be present with two food trucks on campus. To register visit https://www.jobfairx.com/index.php/jobfair/seeker_jobfair/717.

 

Job Fair

Monday, Oct 7

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

DeVry University, Newark Tech Center

8000 Jarvis Ave. Suite 220, Newark

https://www.jobfairx.com/index.php/jobfair/seeker_jobfair/717

 

 

October Director-in-Residence named

Submitted by Shirley Gilbert

 

Choral conductor Sid Quinsaat will lead the East Bay People’s Choir for the month of October. Earlier this fall, East Bay People’s Choir (EBPC) embarked on an interesting experience. For three months, from September to November, the singers will work with three different conductors. While many choirs work with the same conductor for years, EBPC has chosen a different model that exposes choir members to a variety of talented directors. September’s Director-in-Residence was Joe Lim, Director of Vocal Music Studies at Pinole Valley High School.

 

Choirmaster Quinsaat serves as Director of Choirs at Piedmont High School and has worked for the Oakland Youth Chorus teaching students from kindergarten through middle school. Quinsaat also directed choirs and musicals at Moreau Catholic High School in Hayward and taught music at St. Ignatious College in San Francisco.

 

“I believe in the power of music to heal and make peace,” says Quinsaat.

 

East Bay People’s Choir

Tuesdays

7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

4181 Irvington Ave, Fremont

(510) 926-6727

www.chambersingers.org

 

 

Park It

By Ned MacKay

 

For 2,000 years before the arrival of Europeans a Native American village thrived at what is now Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont, and structures replicating elements of the village are maintained at the site today.

 

Ohlones from several tribes will meet at the Coyote Hills visitor center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, October 6, for the 26th annual Gathering of Ohlone Peoples. Activities will include discussion of contemporary cultural involvements and demonstrations of basket, jewelry, soaproot brush, and dogbane string making.

 

Visitors can learn and play an Ohlone game, visit the village site, try making fire without matches, make a miniature boat out of tule reeds, taste native plant teas and manzanita cider, and in the afternoon try acorn soup cooked with heated stones in a basket.

 

Coyote Hills is at the end of Patterson Ranch Road, off Paseo Padre Parkway a bit north of Highway 84. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. For information, call (510) 544-3220.

 

Nearby at Ardenwood Historic Farm, it’s Railroad Adventure Day from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, October 5. Visitors can ride on the narrow gauge train and learn the history of the original railroad that ran through Ardenwood. Unlimited train rides are included with the Ardenwood admission fee. This is a fundraiser for the nonprofit Railroad Museum at Ardenwood, which is operated by the Society for the Preservation of Carter Railroad Resources.

 

Tickets to the event cost $6 for adults ages 18 and older, $5 for seniors 62 and older, $4 for children 4 – 17, and free for 3 and under. Unlimited train rides are included. Parking is free.

 

Ardenwood is at 34600 Ardenwood Boulevard, just north of Highway 84 in Fremont. For details, call (510) 544-2797.

 

Pumpkin pie ice cream is the treat in store if you join in a program from 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, October 5, at the Environmental Education Center in Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley with naturalist Jenna S. Collins. The group will make hand-cranked ice cream starting with the orange gourd. The center is at the north end of Tilden’s Central Park Drive, accessible via Canon Drive from Grizzly Peak Boulevard in Berkeley.

 

While we’re at Tilden, the Over-The-Hills Gang, an informal group of hikers 55 and older interested in natural history, will convene at the Botanic Garden at 10 a.m. Tuesday, October 8, for a hike to Lake Anza and back, led by naturalist “Trail Gail” Broesder. Everyone is welcome. No dogs, please.

 

The garden is at the intersection of South Park Drive and Wildcat Canyon Road. For information on either of the Tilden programs, call (510) 544-2233.

 

Critter Clues are the theme of a program from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, October 5 at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley. Figure out which animals roam the park by examining chewed branches, listening to bird calls, and searching for tracks.

 

Big Break is at 69 Big Break Road, off Oakley’s Main Street. For information, call (888) 327-2757, ext. 3050.

 

Autumn is a great time to visit the regional parks when the weather is cooler, leaves are turning, and lots of interesting programs are taking place. For a full listing, visit www.ebparks.org.

 

 

Editorial

The tightrope

 

A successful high-wire act requires courage, daring and fortitude. Watching a performer walking carefully along a slender rope from one secure platform to another is mesmerizing, filled with trepidation. Underlying this sense of wonder and fear is confidence in the skill and expertise of the acrobat who understands and appreciates the danger involved.

 

Even the most celebrated and skilled highwire acts such as “The Flying Wallendas” have suffered the consequences of a moment’s hesitation or inattention. Expanding their repertoire from walking on a suspended wire, a “seven chair pyramid” was added to the act, resulting in an astounding visual drama but also leading to a fatal accident in 1962. Even so, the family has continued its tradition with bike rides on the wire, jaunts across Niagara Falls and the Grand Canyon, even a blindfolded walk between two Chicago skyscrapers. Earlier this year, Nik and Lijana Wallenda successfully crossed New York's Times Square 25 stories up.

 

Tightropes, however, are not confined to circus acts and entertainment. Almost all of us walk a tightrope of some sort. In fact, some people are even asked to juggle a series of challenges – economic, social, physical, emotional, etc. – while navigating the narrow path of mitigating the foibles of our individual or collective lives. Since our personal and collective decisions are modified by passion, circumstance and perception of future gain or loss, without constant attention and focus, results can be disastrous. This is true in politics as well. In the political world, representation is a key element of our system of government. We ask our representatives to add another dimension to their tightrope walk. It’s as if the high-wire is swaying in a slight breeze that can develop into a gale-force wind with little warning.

 

Currently, we are watching the transformation of some political bodies in the greater Tri-City area as at-large positions are converting to district elected offices. While the concept is not new and has been previously employed with some municipalities and educational boards in the area, the 2020 political season will see others joining their ranks. The challenge is for those unaccustomed to targeted representation to use narrow electoral districts in a broader sense of unity while enjoying the clarity of campaigns closer to their personal surroundings.

 

Will the process bring greater representation or Balkan-like bickering? As mediator and “ringmaster,” the chair or mayor of each setting becomes a critical piece of the action. As we approach the new election cycle in 2020, contenders for many positions are beginning to formulate plans to gather supporters and entice voters. For jurisdictions about to enter or complete their district election process, choices will be a bit different. But for all of us, the coming political year will be filled with a myriad of decisions that will ask constituents to consider issues that affect them both directly and indirectly. District representation brings the added responsibility of merging local and broader concerns. As Michelle Williams’ lyrics in the song “Tightrope” from The Greatest Showman says:

 

“We are walking the tightrope

Never sure, never know how far we could fall”

Egyptology Lecture

Submitted by Glenn Meyer

 

The Northern California Chapter of the American Research Center in Egypt (ARCE-NC) is sponsoring The Mystery of the White Wall: New Discoveries at Memphis, a lecture by Dr. Galina Belova, Center for Egyptological Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences on Sunday, October 13. Admission is free and reservations are not required.

 

Egyptology Lecture

Sunday, Oct 13

3 p.m.

Room 20 Barrows Hall

Barrow Lane and Bancroft Way, UC Berkeley

(408) 241-1233

http://www.arce-nc.org/lectures.htm
Free, donations are welcome

 

 

Facebook slashes price, size of Portal video call gadget

By Barbara Ortutay

AP Technology Writer

 

SAN FRANCISCO (AP), Sep 18 – Facebook is slashing the price and the size of the Portal, its screen and camera-equipped gadget for making video calls with friends and family as it attempts to get the device into more homes.

 

A smaller version will now cost $129 and will come with an 8 inch display. A larger version with a 10 inch display will cost $179.

 

A new screenless Portal device that attaches to a television set will be $149.

 

Last year's models were bigger and cost more – $199 for a 10.1 inch display and $349 for at 15.6 inch screen.

 

Facebook isn't saying how many Portals it's sold since it launched the first models last fall. It remains unclear how many people want a Facebook-branded smart camera in their homes, given the company's history of privacy problems.

 

Facebook executives unveiled the new gadget at a small event in San Francisco this week. In addition to losing a few inches, Portal has been redesigned to look less like a space-age gadget and more like a picture frame.

 

The product is also launching in more countries and will work with WhatsApp to make video calls, in addition to Facebook's Messenger app. And it will now stream Amazon Prime videos.

 

Facebook has tried to assuage privacy concerns with the Portal. The service will not show ads, but “we are using Facebook's infrastructure, so some data may inform ads on Facebook,” said Andrew “Boz” Bosworth, vice president of virtual reality and augmented reality. “But that's not the point of it, it's not something that is going to be material to Facebook.”

 

For instance, if someone makes a lot of video calls on Portal, they might see ads for video calling devices elsewhere. But Facebook says it doesn't use the content of the calls for ad targeting, though Bosworth declined to commit to never doing so in the future.

 

The Portal and the Portal Mini go on sale Oct. 15; the screenless version ships on Nov. 5.

 

 

Fremont Police Log

Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont PD

 

Sunday, September 15

• Fremont Fire Department requested officer assistance at a residence on Sea Mist Terrace for a structure fire that they believed was a marijuana grow house. Officers confirmed the unoccupied house was used for growing and harvesting marijuana. More than 1,000 marijuana plants were collected. An investigation is ongoing.

 

Monday, September 16

• Detective Rodriguez and Sgt. Magana were dispatched to an address on Fremont Boulevard on the report of a person possibly armed with a gun. Upon arrival, they contacted a man who had felony and misdemeanor warrants out of San Jose, Fremont, and Siskiyou County. The man did not comply with officer commands and fought until he was eventually arrested for a variety of offenses.

 

Tuesday, September 17

• Officers were dispatched to the train depot in Centerville after multiple people called the police to report an in-progress battery on the platform between a transient male and transient female. Arriving officers found the intoxicated female had a significant cut caused by a knife. Officer O’Neal arrested the 40 year old man on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon.

 

Wednesday, September 18, 2019
• A woman was withdrawing money an ATM at Wells Fargo on Paseo Padre Parkway near Walnut Avenue when she was approached by a transient who yelled, “Give me your money!” and then attempted to take money from her. The victim ran away and was chased by the suspect but made it safely into a business across the parking lot. Officer Haugh responded and arrested the 25-year-old suspect on suspicion of attempted robbery.

 

Thursday, September 19

• Officer Oliveira investigated a theft at Lowe’s home improvement store where a customer placed an envelope full of cash down as he paid for his merchandise. Another customer took the envelope and fled the store. Through store surveillance cameras, the suspect was found to have been riding a motorcycle. Oliveira obtained video from the community cameras that identified the license plate of the motorcycle and eventually located the 50-year-old suspect and retrieved the envelope of cash. The suspect was arrested and booked into Santa Rita Jail on one count of theft.

 

 

Fremont School District Board Meeting Highlights

Submitted by Brian Killgore

 

At its September 25th meeting, the Fremont Unified School District (FUSD) Board of Education:

 

• Received gifted and talented education program testing and assessments presentation – Gifted and talented students are defined as students, children, or youth who give evidence of high achievement capability in areas such as intellectual, creative, artistic, or leadership capacity, or in specific academic fields, and who need services and activities not ordinarily provided by the school in order to fully develop those capabilities. FUSD's identification process begins in third grade. All third grade students are tested, unless a parent opts out of the assessment. Students who are in fourth or fifth grade who have not previously been tested have an opportunity to be assessed. Students may be referred for professional judgment in fifth and sixth grade by their parents and/or their teacher. The school principal and teacher review various data and documents when considering a student for GATE identification. Students identified as gifted in other districts will be considered by the director of elementary education. In August, the board requested that staff provide an informational presentation on GATE testing and the elimination of the universal screener in FUSD.

 

• Received a presentation and provided direction on Thornton Middle School Track and Play Fields (Middle School Conversion) – The board received a presentation on the Thornton track and play fields and approved the proposed site-requested design changes. On March 13, the board received a presentation on the schematic design for the project and provided direction to proceed with field layout Option 1. Subsequently, additional modifications were recommended by the site committee and site staff. These modifications provide for a larger uninterrupted playfield area and a longer track. Other site-requested changes are to reduce handball courts from three to two, and to eliminate three ball walls, eight tether ball courts, and a fitness station. There is no budget impact for the modified design.

 

• Approved first reading of new board policy – The district desires to support student activism. Board Policy 5145.2, Freedom of Speech/Expression, is a new policy based on the California School Boards Association (CSBA) model to address the rights and limitations related to student expression in a variety of forms, including off-campus as well as on-campus student expression.

 

• Approved annual display of the pride flag – The board requested a discussion to consider approving the display of the Pride Flag annually at school sites in June, starting 2020. Pending FUSD outcome of the discussion, direct staff to update Administrative Regulation 6115, ceremonies and observances to reflect any changes.

Fremont School District Election Transition

Submitted by Brian Killgore

 

Starting on September 11, Fremont Unified School District initiated the process of transitioning the method by which governing board members are elected. Under the current “at-large” system, all registered voters in the district’s boundaries can vote for candidates for board member seats.

 

Under the new proposed system, candidates will be elected by “trustee areas.” This means only voters within a given trustee area can vote for candidates who reside within that same area. The intent of this proposed system is to offer greater opportunities for board representation for candidates that might not be elected under an at-large system.

 

Transitioning to this new system requires the board to hold public hearings on proposed trustee area boundaries (or maps) before asking Alameda County Committee on School District Organization to approve the change. If the committee approves the change, “trustee areas” voting would be held starting with the 2020 general election on November 3, 2020.

 

Before the district prepares and presents draft map options, law requires the district hold two public hearings to solicit comments and feedback regarding potential trustee areas. Thereafter, the district will be hosting a series of public hearings regarding map options.

 

The community is invited to attend as many meetings as possible. After the initial public hearings, the proposed maps will be created and posted on https://www.fremont.k12.ca.us.

 

Public Hearings (Before Creation of Map Options)

Wednesdays: Sept 25, Oct 16

 

Public Hearings (After Creation of Map Options)

Wednesdays: Oct 30, Nov 20, Dec 10

 

7 p.m.

Public Hearing District Office Board Room

4210 Technology Dr., Fremont

https://www.fremont.k12.ca.us

 

 

Honoring heritage: Gathering of Ohlone Peoples

By Madhvika Singh

Photos by Victor Carvellas

 

Culture is like a time machine that lets us travel closer to our origin. To further strengthen this connection with their roots, Ohlone people from several tribes come together every year to celebrate and share their heritage at the “Annual Gathering of the Ohlone Peoples.”

 

The Ohlone, formerly known as Costanoans (meaning “coast dweller” in Spanish), are Native American people of the Northern California coast. Before the Spanish explorers and missionaries arrived in the late 18th century, the Ohlone inhabited the area along the coast from San Francisco Bay through Monterey Bay to lower Salinas valley. They were a collection of many tribes, with their own identity, and spoke a variety of related languages.

 

The Annual Gathering of the Ohlone Peoples started in 1994; this year’s event will take place on October 6th at the Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont, marking its 26th year. At the event, a variety of talks, demonstrations and activities will showcase Ohlone culture. The Coyote Hills Regional Park is also home to a more than two-thousand-year-old village site, which guests can visit and explore.

 

There will be hands-on activities to learn techniques the Ohlone used to make baskets, jewelry and soaproot brushes. Demonstrations will show skills that were so common back then, and almost forgotten today, like making fire without matches or igniters, and making a tule (native grass) boat. Francis Mendoza at East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) shared that earlier this year at the Ohlone Youth Summit, young Ohlones from three different tribes came together to build and launch a life-size boat built from tule – quite a feat!

 

Just like with many other cultures, food is important to Ohlones. This event will be an opportunity to taste some native Ohlone foods, like Manzanita cider, native plant teas, and acorn soup. Manzanita, an evergreen shrub, is a favorite among the Ohlone tribes. Cider made from the plant’s berries is a refreshing drink full of antioxidants. The Yerba Buena plant is a member of the mint family and was so abundant that San Francisco was initially called “Yerba Buena” after it. Tea made from the plant is known for its medicinal value for various aliments.

 

Acorn soup is yet another dish of significance to the Ohlone people, and its traditional preparation is a showcase of the tribe coming together. The process starts with collecting acorns from oak trees in fall. Mendoza shared, “Back then women would sing songs to thank the land for its bounty and after the first harvest, and young boys would climb the oaks and shake them for a second harvest of the acorn hanging from hard-to-reach branches.” Acorns are cracked, shelled, winnowed, pounded into flour and leached of their bitter taste with water. They are then cooked in a basket with hot rocks and boiling water.

 

Owner of Wahpepah’s Kitchen, Chef Crystal Wahpepah, who is the first Native American indigenous to be featured on Food Network’s Chopped, will bring some of her popular dishes for purchase. Indian frybread topped with beef, lettuce, or strawberries and whipped cream has been a favorite at the gathering in past years.

 

Culture, like language, can find expression in several forms. Arts provide articulation for the intangible aspects of culture, and the Humaya dancers are a perfect example of this. Early in the day of the gathering they will perform a dance and song in ceremonial regalia. Humaya means Hummingbird in Rumsen, the language spoken by Ohlones that inhabited what is now Monterey county. The hummingbird is an important figure in many creation narratives as a fire-bearer. During a performance, Humaya dancers and singers use clapper sticks made from the Elderberry tree to conduct ceremony. (Bamboo is also sometime used as a substitute.) A coppiced elderberry branch is split in the middle and hit against one’s palm to keep a rhythmic beat. Guests are strongly encouraged to ask for permission before taking pictures or making videos. However, they are welcome to make replicas of the necklaces in the necklace-making station in front of the visitor center.

 

Members from different Ohlone tribes will give talks throughout the day on topics like language revitalization, cultural site preservation and storytelling. There will also be prayer ceremonies and performances including traditional songs. Francis Mendoza shared that many Ohlone people today sing songs they’ve learned from elders and have been passed on from generation to generation. In many ways, the culture is steeped in these songs, which travel the journey of time through generations, and preserve cultural heritage.

 

Native people lived in much closer harmony with the nature and respected and nurtured it for what it provided. Their culture represented the collective wisdom gathered through incorporating nature into their lifestyle. Use of plants, dance forms inspired by hummingbird, and tule boats are all examples of that wisdom passed down through generations. This event is an effort to preserve everything the culture stands for and ensure its safe passage to coming generations. Manzanita Cider, anyone?

 

Gathering of Ohlone Peoples

Sunday, Oct 6

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Coyote Hills Regional Park

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

https://www.ebparks.org/parks/coyote_hills/ (look under park calendar)

Parking: $5 per vehicle

 

 

Google will start transcribing audio recordings again

AP Wire Service

 

SAN FRANCISCO (AP), Sep 23 – Google is restarting a practice in which human contractors listen to and transcribe some voice commands people give to the company's artificial intelligence system, Assistant. But this time Google is taking steps to make sure people know what they are agreeing to.

 

The company suspended its transcription practices after more than 1,000 Dutch-language recordings were leaked to the media in Belgium this summer. Google required users to opt-in to the service before audio transcriptions were recorded, but critics have said people didn't fully understand they were agreeing to allow human transcribers to listen in because the company's language was unclear.

 

Amazon, Microsoft, Apple and Facebook have all used similar practices. The companies say it helps make their AI systems more accurate.

 

Now Google will require users to agree again to voice transcription and make it clear human transcribers might listen to recordings. People don't have to opt-in to the service, but certain Assistant features won't be available if they don't.

 

The company also said it will delete most recordings after a few months, and people can review their recordings and delete them manually at any time.

 

 

Halloween fun and games

Submitted by Shirley Sisk

 

The holidays are approaching fast! League of Volunteers (LOV) is planning an evening of food, prizes, and fun at the annual Halloween Quarter Auction Sunday, October 27. Enjoy a delicious buffet of roasted chicken, tri tip, au gratin potatoes, mixed vegetable medley, bread butter, tossed green salad, and vanilla ice cream with strawberry topping. Wear your costume if you’re feeling spooky, or come in casual mode.

 

Proceeds of this event will benefit LOV’s Thanksgiving Day meal program, which served 4,365 meals last year. Thanksgiving dinner will be at Newark Pavilion and open to all; those attending will also receive a box of food to take home. In addition, meals will be served to the homebound in Fremont, Newark, Union City, Hayward, San Leandro, San Lorenzo, and Castro Valley. Proceeds from the event will also help with the Holiday Toy Drive and Adopt-a-Family programs.

 

Reservations must be received by Friday, October 18. For reservations, call (510) 793-5683 or visit http://www.lov.org/product/14th-annual-halloween-quarter-auction/. Tickets are $32.50 per person or $240 for a table of eight.

 

Halloween Quarter Auction

Sunday, Oct 27

5 p.m.

Swiss Park

5911 Mowry Ave, Newark

(510) 793-5683

http://www.lov.org/product/14th-annual-halloween-quarter-auction/.

Cost: $32.50 per person or $240 for a table of 8

Reserve by Friday, Oct 18

 

 

Hayward Arts Council to showcase works by members

Article and photo submitted by Winda Shimizu

 

The works of 50 members of the Hayward Arts Council (HAC) will be on view starting Friday, October 4 at the John O’Lague Galleria at Hayward City Hall. The “Members Only Show” comprises a variety of media including acrylics, pastels, photography, textiles, digital print, recycled materials, sculpture, potter, paper art, ink and poetry. The goal of the HAC is to stimulate interest in visual and performing arts, promote opportunities for artists to exhibit their works and to encourage public participation in free art demonstrations.

 

HAC Members Only Show

Exhibit opens Friday, Oct 4

9 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekdays

John O’Lague Galleria, Hayward City Hall

777 B St., Hayward

(510) 538-2787

www.haywardartscouncil.org

 

 

Hayward City Council

September 24, 2019

 

Presentations

• Gabriel Hernandez presented Certificates of Recognition to Koshland Scholarship Award recipients.

 

Public Comments

• Business owner concerned with regulations and fees for opening a bar on B street.
• Chamber of commerce president reported on success of Mariachi festival and Red Ribbon bakery opening. Events coming up: Lincoln Landing apartments grand opening September 30, and Brew by the Library October 30.
• Resident expressed dissatisfaction with lack of funding for disenfranchised communities in the area.

 

Action Items

• Execute a professional services agreement for investment portfolio management services PFM Asset Management LLC. 6-1 No (Wahab).
• Resolution to negotiate and execute agreement with Chabot-Las Positas community college district for PEG Broadcasting Services. 7-0.
• Appoint representative and alternate to ERMAC board of directors and approve amendments to ERMAC joint powers agreement.
• Accept resignation of Ms. Sarah Low from Keep Hayward Clean and Green Task Force.
• Approve amendment to City of Hayward Salary Plan for Fiscal year 2020.
• Execute agreement with Knightscope for security robot subscription service. 6-1 No (Wahab).

 

Legislative business

• Report by McAdoo: Resolution supporting two policy resolutions being considered at the 2019 League of California Cities Annual Business meeting: underground utilities for fire safety and working internationally for water quality. 6-0-1 Absent (Wahab).

 

City Manager’s comments

• Around six thousand people arrived for the Hayward library opening. Acknowledgement on annual airport open house. Highlight October 15 city council meeting will be held offsite at the community center starting meeting at 6 p.m. followed by city chambers meeting at 7 p.m.

 

Council Reports and Announcements

• Council member Salinas shared an event at Memorial Park September 29 for Rock ‘n’ Roll for HHS music runs from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

 

• Council member Marquez mentioned that on September 28, the centennial ceremony for the American Legion Post will be held and will include a parade.

 

Council Referrals

• Reports from councilmember Mendall, Marquez, Zermeno: Consider item for discussion on future city council agenda regarding modifying regulations on Tobacco retailers to reduce teen smoking and vaping. Council suggests additional amendments are needed for referral as discussions continue. Public comments support referral. 7-0.

 

 

Mayor Barbara Halliday         Yes

Francisco Zermeno                 Yes

Al Mendall                              Yes

Sara Lamnin                            Yes

Elisa Marquez                         Yes

Mark Salinas                           Yes

Aisha Wahab                           Yes      2 No    1 Absent

 

 

High speed internet operations hub opens in San Leandro

Submitted by Ashley Kelsey

 

Common Networks, revolutionary wireless home internet service provider (ISP), recently announced its expansion into San Leandro, its fifth Bay Area market. The new service, formally announced on September 25, will give San Leandro residents access to the company’s high-speed internet, giving households the bandwidth to stream on multiple devices at once for $39 per month.

 

Common’s service has garnered city-wide interest quickly, with more than 2,500 San Leandro residents having pre-registered their homes on Common’s website for service since August. To give residents another reason to try the service, Common is offering an unprecedented promotion. “We believe every San Leandran should have access to fast and reliable home internet, so we’re offering three full months of free Common service to every resident,” said Zach Brock, CEO and co-founder, Common Networks. The offer is available to anyone that signs up before October 15.

 

In addition to providing residents access to affordable high-speed internet, the company recently opened a new field operations hub in the city and is actively making local hires for new positions.  “Our agreements with Common will allow our residents to benefit from the investments we’ve made in fiber. I’m also excited about the workforce development effort to hire locally and build a talent pipeline into the tech industry,” said Mayor Pauline Cutter.

 

More information about Common Network’s services in San Leandro is available at their website at https://common.net/cities/sanleandro.

 

 

Honor Roll

 

University of Vermont

Fall 2019 enrollee

• Ruth Oppenheimer, Castro Valley

 

University of Findlay, Ohio

Fall 2019 enrollee

• Joshua Cheng, Castro Valley

 

 

Housing and new retail space groundbreaking

Submitted by Chuck Finnie

 

On September 30, Dollinger Properties of Redwood City broke ground on construction of its Lincoln Landing residential and retail project at the former Mervyns department stores headquarters in downtown Hayward. The project will bring 476 apartments and more than 80,500 square feet of retail space to the important 11.5-acre property at 22301 Foothill Boulevard.

 

Dollinger also has contributed nearly $1.7 million to the city’s housing trust fund for the creation and preservation of income-restricted housing affordable to moderate, low and very-low income households.

 

Lincoln Landing will be the sixth residential or mixed-use residential development to break ground on Foothill and Mission boulevards in the last two years. The plan provides for up to 3,427 new housing units and 1.9 million square feet of space for retail, entertainment, office and other nonresidential uses.

 

 

I bike, you bike

Submitted by City of Union City

Photos courtesy of Maynard Estrellado

 

“I Bike Union City” is a bicycle swap meet and show that focuses on the art of bicycle culture. Check out some of the coolest bikes in town or enter your own bicycle creation for the show! The coolest part is that the you, the public, can vote for your favorite bikes. Afterwards the I Bike Union City team will lead a night ride through the city.

 

For more information call (510) 675-5805 or email maynarde@unioncity.org. Visit our Community Events Page at: https://www.unioncity.org/419/Community-Events. Entry for the community is free, bike registration for the show is $5.

 

I Bike Union City

Saturday, Oct 5

Bike show: 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Ride out: 7:30 p.m.

Studio 11

34626 11 St., Union City

(510) 675-5805

maynarde@unioncity.org

 

 

Induz Laser Dandiya

Submitted by Induz

 

Induz organization presents “Laser Dandiya” 2019 with live bands in a mix of Bollywood and traditional music, Garba and Dandiya, and of course, a spectacular laser show. The event will take place on Saturday October 5 at Windemere Ranch Middle School in San Ramon.

 

Featured band will be Alaap, and featured artist will be singer Saveree Joshipura –winner of Colors TV Singing Competition. Saveree will be accompanied by celebrity Dholi from New York. Dandiya sticks will be available for sale at the event; Indian cuisine will be catered by Chaat Bhavan and Mantra. In addition, there will be contests for best-dressed, best dancer, and more.

 

Induz Laser Dandiya

Saturday, Oct 5

6 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Windemere Ranch Middle School

11611 E. Branch Pkwy, San Ramon

(510) 875-5006

www.sulekha.com/induz

www.nofeetickets.com/induz

 

 

CONTINUING EVENTS:

 

Mondays, May 14 – Dec 30

English Conversation Group

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Practice spoken English in a friendly environment

Union City Branch Library

34007 Alvarado Niles Rd., Union City

(510) 745-1464

 

Fridays, May 17 – Oct 25

Fremont Street Eats

5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Food trucks, beer, wine, music

Town Fair Plaza

39100 State St., Fremont

fremontstreeteats.com

 

Friday – Sunday, Aug 16 – Oct 5

Planet Hayward

11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Eclectic collection of art celebrating “The Heart of the Bay”

Sun Gallery

1015 E St., Hayward

(510) 581-4050

www.sungallery.org

 

Wednesdays, Aug 21 – Oct 30

Citizen Police Academy R

5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Volunteers train to assist Newark Police

Newark Police Department

37101 Newark Blvd., Newark

(510) 578-4000

(510) 578-4352

beverly.ryans@newark.org

 

Saturdays – Sundays, Sep 1 – Oct 27

Nature Crafts

10 a.m. – 12 noon

Discover the natural world through your artistic side

Sunol Regional Wilderness

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3249

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturdays – Sundays, Sep 1 – Oct 27

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

 

Sundays, Sep 1 – Oct 27

Animal Feeding Time

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Discuss reptiles, observe feeding time

Sunol Regional Wilderness

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3249

www.ebparks.org

 

1st & 3rd Sundays, Sep 1 – Oct 20

Sunday Cinema at the Newark Library

2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Enjoy a classic, superhero flick, or 80's film. Sing-a-longs

Newark Branch Library

6300 Civic Terrace Ave., Newark

(510) 284-0684

www.aclibrary.com

 

Sundays, Sep 1 – Oct 19

Dove Gallery “Parables: Art with a Message” Exhibit

12 noon – 3 p.m.

Art inspired by meaningful experiences and deep convictions

Park Victoria Baptist Church

875 S. Park Victoria Dr., Milpitas

(408) 464-5011

dove@parkvictoria.org

 

Fridays, Sep 3 – Nov 5

Fremont Bridge Club

10 a.m.

Open stratified and newcomer games

Bronco Billy’s Pizza – Irvington

41200 Blacow Rd., Fremont

(510) 438-0121

www.unit500.org

 

Sundays, Sep 8 – Dec 1

Family Friendly Matinee

3 p.m.

Dates: 9/8, 10/6, 11/3, 12/1

Made Up Theatre

4000 Bay St. Suite B, Fremont

(510) 573-3633

www.madeuptheatre.com

 

Mondays, Sep 9 – Dec 17

Advanced Math and Science Tutoring

6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

High school/college level help in math, physics and chemistry

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

www.aclibrary.org

 

Mondays & Wednesdays, Sep 16 – Nov 4

Music for Minors II Training

9:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Learn to become a music volunteer

United Church of Christ

38255 Blacow Rd., Fremont

(510) 793-3970

(510) 733-1189

 

Mondays & Wednesdays, Sep 16 – Nov 4

Music for Minors II Training

6:45 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

Learn to become a music volunteer

Proctor Elementary

17520 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley

www.musicforminors2.org

 

Saturday – Sunday, Sep 28 – Oct 6

Eugene Onegin $

Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m.

A letter, a duel and unfulfilled love

Bankhead Theater

2400 First St., Livermore

LVOpera.com

 

Thursday – Sunday, Sep 28 – Oct 13

42nd Street $

9/28,10/3, 10/4, 10/5, 10/11, 10/12: 8 p.m., 9/29, 10/6, 10/13: 2:30 p.m.

Chorus girl Peggy Sawyer comes to New York

Newark Memorial High School Theatre

39375 Cedar Blvd., Newark

(510) 791-0287

www.stage1theatre.org

 

Sunday – Wednesday, Sep 29 – Oct 9

Jewish High Holidays

various times

Rosh Hashana: 9/29 – 10/1, Yom Kippur: 10/8 – 10/9

Chabad of Fremont Jewish Center

220 Yerba Buena Pl., Fremont

(510) 300-4090

www.chabadfremont.com

 

Mondays & Wednesdays, Sep 30 – Oct 23

Citizen's Police Academy R

6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Learn what it takes to be a police officer

Milpitas Police Station

1275 N. Milpitas Blvd, Milpitas

(408) 586-2400

(408) 586-2526

 

Monday – Friday, Sep 30 – Nov 27

Resonance Exhibit

Upstairs: Mon-Fri, 9-5

Downstairs: Mon: 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. Tues & Thurs: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Mixed media by 11 artists on their experiences with H.A.R.D.

PhotoCentral

1099 E St., Hayward

(510) 881-6721

www.photocentral.org

 

Tuesdays, Oct 1 – Nov 12

Boundless Compassion – Creating a Way of Life $R

10:30 a.m. – 12 noon

Process for developing and deepening compassion. Register by 9/27

Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose

43326 Mission Blvd., Fremont

(510) 933-6335

(510) 933-6360

 

Thursdays, Oct 3 – Oct 24

Spiritual Guides for Today $R

1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

“The Time is Now: A Call to Uncommon Courage” by Joan Chittister. Register by 9/30

Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose

43326 Mission Blvd., Fremont

(510) 933-6335

(510) 933-6360

 

Fridays, Oct 4 – Oct 11

Dandiya Nights $

7:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Live band by Asim and Madhavi Mehta

India Community Center

525 Los Coches St., Milpitas

(408) 934-1130

www.indiacc.org

 

Thursday-Sunday, Oct 4 – Nov 2

On The Verge

12 noon – 5 p.m.

Photographs by Nancy Brown

Olive Hyde Art Gallery

123 Washington Blvd., Fremont

(510) 791-4357

www.olivehydeartguild.org

 

Fridays, Oct 4 – Oct 25

Toddler Ramble $

10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Where Do Those Animals Live? Ages 1-3

Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center

4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward

(510) 670-7270

www.haywardrec.org/hayshore.html

 

Monday – Friday, Oct 4 – Dec 6

Members Show

9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Art by members of the Hayward Arts Council

John O'Lague Galleria

777 B Street, Hayward

(510) 538-2787

www.haywardartscouncil.org

 

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Oct 8 – Dec 3

Day of the Dead: A Celebration of Life

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Artwork by community artists

Sunset Gallery

22100 Princeton St.  H2, Hayward

(510) 538-2787

www.haywardartscouncil.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

https://madeuptheatre.com/

 

Saturday nights

8 p.m.

Audience-inspired improv play

Made Up Theatre

4000 Bay St, Suite B, Fremont

(510) 573-3633

https://madeuptheatre.com/

 

 

THIS WEEK:

 

Wednesday, Oct 2

Compassion Cultivation Training R

2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Self-compassion

City of Fremont, Bldg. B

3300 Capitol Ave., Fremont

(510) 574-2035

 

Wednesday, Oct 2

National Coffee with a Cop Day

2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Get to know your Hayward Police officers

Downtown Hayward, B St. and Foothill

(510) 537-2424

(510) 293-1043

 

Wednesday, Oct 2

National Coffee Day with a Cop

10 a.m. – 12 noon

Discuss community issues

Starbucks Milpitas

128 N. Milpitas Blvd.

 

Thursday, Oct 3

State of the District Address & Awards Ceremony R

5:30 p.m.

Senator Bob Wieckowski – local hero award winners

42 Silicon Valley

6600 Dumbarton Cir., Fremont

(510) 794-3900

 

Friday, Oct 4

On The Verge: Opening Reception

7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Photographs by Nancy Brown

Olive Hyde Art Gallery

123 Washington Blvd., Fremont

(510) 791-4357

www.olivehydeartguild.org

 

Friday, Oct 4

Scary Movie Marathon $

4 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Enjoy a fun night with other 6th – 12th graders

Silliman Activity Center

6800 Mowry Ave., Newark

(510) 578-4620

 

Friday, Oct 4

Eden Area Village Member Forum & Outreach

2 p.m.

Meet members, learn how local seniors are being helped

Hayward City Hall

777 B St., Hayward

(510) 208-0410

www.edenareavillage.org

 

Friday, Oct 4

Fall Preview $

7 p.m.

Choral and instrumental music ensembles of CVHS

Castro Valley Center for the Arts

19501 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley

(510) 889-8961

www.cvartsfoundation.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5 – Sunday, Oct 6

Friends of San Leandro Library Fall Book Sale

Saturday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sunday 12 noon – 3 p.m.

Saturday members preview: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., general public 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Sunday $2 per bag

San Leandro Main Library

300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro

(510) 577-3971

 

Saturday, Oct 5 – Sunday, Oct 6

Fall Rummage Sale

Sat. 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Clothing, books, games, kitchenware, tools

Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church

32975 Alvarado Niles Rd., Union City

(510) 471-2581

www.sacbc.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5 – Sunday, Oct 6

International Festival

Sat. 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Food booths, games, flea market, live entertainment

Our Lady of the Rosary Church

703 C St., Union City

(510) 471-2609

www.olrchurch.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5 – Sunday, Oct 6

Olive Festival

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Shopping, food, live entertainment

Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose

43326 Mission Blvd., Fremont

(510) 933-6335

www.msjchamber.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Night Market

2 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Live entertainment, food, local vendors

Ohlone College Newark Campus
39399 Cherry St., Newark

(510) 742-2350

streetfair@ohlone.edu

 

Saturday, Oct 5

The Waiting Period $

8 p.m.

Solo play tackling depression with insight and humor

Douglas Morrison Theatre

22311 N Third St., Hayward

(510) 881-6777

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Mutt Strut $

8 a.m. – 12 noon

Pancake breakfast, dog costume contest, vendors, music & prizes

Masonic Homes of CA

34400 Mission Blvd., Union City

(510) 675-5396

www.nhsfoundation.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Rotary Business Expo $

12 noon – 5 p.m.

Meet and network with entrepreneurs and guests

Ohlone College Newark Campus

39399 Cherry St., Newark

(510) 742-2300

(510) 828-9376

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Joktoberfest $

7 p.m.

Five comedians, treats, drinks

Smalltown Society Space

22222 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley

plethos.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Stilt Walkers

12 noon – 12:30 p.m.

Improve your balance

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Railroad Adventure Day $

10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Enjoy train rides around the farm

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

What's the Buzz About Bees

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Learn why bees are a farmer's best friend

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Movie Night $

7:30 p.m.

“Destiny”, “A Bandit and Peeping Pete”, “The Bond of Blood”, “Der mude Tod”

Niles Essanay Theater

37417 Niles Blvd, Fremont

(510) 494-1411

www.nilesfilmmuseum.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Music and Movement

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Songs and movement activities to build motor and social skills.

Ages 6 and under with adult

Centerville Library

3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont

(510) 795-2629

www.aclibrary.com

 

Saturday, Oct 5

I Bike Union City

4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Bike show and swap meet. Ride out 7:30 p.m.

Studio 11

34626 11th St., Union City

maynard@unioncity.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Plaque Dedication

10 a.m.

Speeches, live entertainment, light refreshments

Old St. Edwards Church

7160 Graham Ave., Newark

alminard@comcast.net

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Amazing Amphibians

10 a.m. – 12 noon

Walk to marsh, learn about salamanders, frogs, and newts

Coyote Hills

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Healthy Parks, Healthy People Hike

1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Stroll along the marsh, bay trails, and over the hills

Coyote Hills

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

St. Felicitas Harvest Festival

8 a.m. – 9 p.m.

Parade, games, food trucks, open mass

Manor Park

1650 Manor Blvd, San Leandro

(510) 357-2530

https://stfelicitas-school.org/

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Indoor Big Fall Flea Market

8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Unique items, over 55 vendors, food

Kenneth C. Aitken Center

17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley

(510) 881-6738

www.haywardrec.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Raspberry Jam

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Learn more about micro-computer Raspberry Pi

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

www.aclibrary.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Garden Open House

10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Food Workshop: From Soil to Sale – A Growing Look at Food

Paradise Community Garden

20095 Mission Blvd, Hayward

(510) 909-4077

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Nature Detectives $

11 a.m. – 12 noon

Odd organisms.  Ages 3-5

Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center

4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward

(510) 670-7270

www.haywardrec.org/hayshore.html

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Twilight Steam Train Ride

7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Departs from Sunol Depot at 7pm

Niles Canyon Railway

37001 Mission Blvd, Fremont

www.ncry.org

(510) 910-7024

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Wildlife Center Open House

11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Animal talks, nature crafts—support humane society

Ohlone Humane Society Wildlife Rehabilitation Center

37175 Hickory St., Newark

(510) 797-9449

www.ohlonehumanesociety.org

 

Saturday, Oct 5

Induz Laser Dandiya  $R

6 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Live music, laser show

Windemere Ranch Middle School

11611 E. Branch Pkwy., San Ramon

(510) 875-5006

www.sulekha.com/induz

 

Sunday, October 6

Pink flamingo pee wee golf tournament $

Golf: noon to 4 p.m.

Watering hole: 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Creative mini golf in downtown Niles

Joe’s Corner

37713 Niles Blvd., Fremont

(510) 684-5014

http://www.niles.org/pink-flamingo-golf/

 

Sunday, Oct 6

Rope Making & Hay Hoisting

12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Make a rope with an antique machine, lift bales of hay

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Oct 6

Meet The Chickens

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Learn about our egg-laying friends. Meet at the chicken coop

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Oct 6

Old-Fashioned Fun

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Stilt walking, sack races, tug-o-war, potato-spoon racing

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Oct 6

Cooking in Country Kitchen

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Sample food that was cooked on a wood-burning stove

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Oct 6

26th Annual Gathering of Ohlone Peoples

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Demonstrations of Ohlone weaving, dance, and food

Coyote Hills

8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont

(510) 544-3220

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Oct 6

Salvador Vazquez in Concert

2 p.m.

Virtuoso harpist plays Jalisco style Mexican folk tunes

Union City Branch Library

34007 Alvarado Niles Rd., Union City

(510) 745-1464

www.aclibrary.org

 

Sunday, Oct 6

Pleasant Picnic $

12 noon – 2 p.m.

Walk and picnic by the bay with a naturalist

Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center

4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward

(510) 670-7270

www.haywardrec.org/hayshore.html

 

Sunday, Oct 6

Wine & Liberty Celebration $R

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Meet Libertarian Party leaders. Wine tasting, food & raffle.

Westover Vineyards

34329 Palomares Rd., Castro Valley

(510) 793-7254

www.lpac.us/events

 

Sunday, Oct 6

Filipino American History Month

1:30 p.m. – 4:40 p.m.

Author readings by three Filipina writers, slideshow by photographer

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1421

www.aclibrary.org

 

Monday, Oct 7

Job Fair R

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Learn about jobs in business, technology, healthcare

DeVry University – Jarvis

8000 Jarvis Ave. Suite 220, Newark

(510) 208-0410

www.jobfairx.com

 

Monday, Oct 7

St. Joseph’s Golf & Gala

9:30 a.m. Registration

11:00 a.m. Shotgun Start

5:30 p.m. Dinner/Auction

Golf on scenic range, dinner, auction

The Club at Ruby Hill

3400 W. Ruby Hill Dr., Pleasanton

(510) 656-6525

sjsgolf@sjsmsj.org

www.sjevents.org

 

Tuesday, Oct 8

Bird Walk

7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Tranquil walk along park trails. May Road staging area

Garin Regional Park

1320 Garin Ave., Hayward

(510) 582-2206

www.ebparks.org

 

Tuesday, Oct 8

Hayward Volunteer Awards and Recognition Dinner $

6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

39 people recognized by local non-profits for outstanding efforts

St. Rose Hospital Grand White Tent

27200 Calaroga Ave., Hayward

(510) 952-9637

www.facebook.com/HeartsOfHayward

 

Saturday, Oct 12

Top Hat Benefit $R

6 p.m. – 12 Midnight

Dinner, cocktails, entertainment and auction. Black tie optional

Washington Hospital West Anderson Auditorium

2500 Mowry Ave., Fremont

(800) 448-5433

(510) 791-3428

foundation@whhs.com  https://www.whhs.com/Giving-Volunteering/Our-Foundation/Upc oming-Event-33rd-Annual-Top-Hat-Gala.aspx

 

Saturday, Oct 12

Open Wide Our Hearts: Exploring Racism & Diversity $R

9:30 a.m. – 12 noon

What is it to “Do Justice” in our world today? Register by 10/7

Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose

43326 Mission Blvd., Fremont

(510) 933-6335

http://bit.ly/2019OpnWdHrts

 

Thursday, Oct 17

Dance Meditation for Business $R

9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Intro to Sacred Dance Meditation. Register by 10/1

Stonebrae Country Club

27900 Fairview Ave., Hayward

(510) 581-0223

http://www.danceinthespirit.com/retreats-and-workshops

 

 

Painting expressive florals in oil – techniques for any subject

Submitted by Susan Helmer

Photos courtesy of Fremont Art Association

 

On Wednesday, October 9, Fremont Art Association will host a special demonstration from guest artist Julia Watson. The event will take guests through the painting process from first stroke to finishing touches.

 

Watson will be showing her preferred materials and how she begins, develops and finishes a painting. She will bring three paintings of the same subject to show these stages, with one being blank so that she can show the beginnings. After that, she will work on the middle stage painting and end with the third and final painting, talking about the finish. She is always open to being interrupted with questions. Watson is an award-winning oil painter known for her lush contemporary florals. She was trained in traditional techniques, but her paintings veer into new territories such as flower mandalas and modern still life scenes.

 

Speaking on her work, Watson says, “My job as an artist is to take the beauty I see around me and distill it into a new image. To say that my work is about beauty may sound simple and trite, but making a beautiful painting is not. I’ve painted long enough to know my preferred subject, style and medium. I often paint flowers, but they get edited and colored in my own imagination. I often build up colors in thin layers of oil paint, so that the viewer can see subtle nuances. When I include people or still life objects, I want to suggest a story by color, by body language of a figure, or by including meaningful objects.”

 

Julia Watson painting demonstration

Wednesday, Oct 9

1 p.m.

Fremont Art Association Gallery

37697 Niles Blvd., Fremont

(510) 792-0905

https://www.fremontartassociation.org/

 

 

Do you want to be a community leader?

Submitted by Hayward Chamber of Commerce

 

Applications are being accepted for the 30th annual class of Leadership Hayward. With more than 325 graduates since 1991, the program aims to develop local community leaders who are knowledgeable about the greater Hayward area and who are prepared to address complex social and economic issues.

 

The program is particularly valuable to representatives of the business community, who learn about Hayward’s economic development to enhance their professional growth and that of their business. Past participants have included bankers, retailers, restaurant owners, teachers, professors, police officers, firefighters, medical personnel, nonprofit staff and city employees. Businesses have been represented by executives, managers and staff.

 

Leadership Hayward classes meet monthly from November through June. Each one-day session focuses on a general topic and is presented by experts. Topics include team building, heritage and cultural awareness, economic and public policy, community design and transportation, health and human services, education, arts and recreation, public safety and disaster preparedness, and public facilities.

 

Classes are limited to about 25 participants, who will receive professional development credit from the Continuing Education, University Extension Division of California State University, East Bay. The June graduation luncheon includes the mayor’s State of the City address and is attended by local and state elected officials and dignitaries.

 

The cost is $900 per person. For more information, or to download an application, visit the Hayward Chamber of Commerce website at www.hayward.org or call (510) 537-2424.

 

 

The Best Holidays Start with Giving

Submitted by Sharon Slayton

 

Are you looking for a great way to share the upcoming holidays? Would you like to make a real difference, right here in the Tri-Cities?

 

League of Volunteers (LOV) has served Newark, Fremont, and Union City families for 39 years. The nonprofit organization’s upcoming holiday services begin with an exciting Halloween Quarter Auction and include a community Thanksgiving Day meal, Toy Drive, Adopt-a-Family and other programs that reach thousands of local Tri-City homes and children.

 

Find out how you can impact families through the Santa’s Workshop Party. Volunteer to help sort a mountain of food and a warehouse as it fills with toys. Help serve or deliver Thanksgiving meals to thousands of people at the Newark Pavilion or make a family’s holiday wish list come true.

 

To learn more about the programs, visit http://www.lov.org/volunteer-community-service/. Call (510) 793-5683 for details on upcoming volunteer donation and unique sponsorship opportunities.

 

League of Volunteers

8440 Central, Suite A/B, Newark

(510) 793-5683

http://www.lov.org/volunteer-community-service/

 

 

Mariners dominate Huskies

Submitted and photos by Mike Heightchew

 

An impressive show of power highlighted the Moreau Catholic Mariners’ varsity meeting with the Washington Huskies (Fremont) on September 28th. Finding holes in the Huskies defense, the Mariners quickly took control with a solid ground game, followed by an equally impressive air attack. Even a Huskies interception that threatened the Mariners’ momentum, was contained by an impressive Mariners blockade of the endzone. On this occasion, the field belonged to Moreau Catholic. Final score: Mariners 49, Huskies 0.

 

 

Master Gardener Volunteer Training Program

By Madhvika Singh

 

Since 1980, the University of California (UC) Master Gardener Program has been extending research-based information about home gardening and pest management to the general public. This program is administered by local participating UC Cooperative Extension county offices, including Alameda County. The mission of the UC Master Gardener program is “To extend research-based knowledge and information on home horticulture, pest management, and sustainable landscape practices to the residents of California and be guided by our core values and strategic initiatives.”

 

Master Gardeners are your neighbors, friends and members of the community who represent the University of California Cooperative Extension. They share knowledge and information on sustainable home gardening practices to the residents of Alameda County through workshops, talks and demonstrations. They are also available to answer questions through a help desk hotline and at various community events.

 

The Alameda County Master Gardener training program is seeking interested volunteers to join and become certified Master Gardeners. Established experts like university advisors, local horticultural educators, and certified Master Gardeners will teach the classes. Topics range from horticulture basics, to integrated pest management, problem diagnosis, to growing and caring for edible landscapes, to name a few.

 

The program is looking for individuals who are enthusiastic about teaching Alameda County residents how to garden more sustainably and who can help strengthen the organization through fundraising, publicity, and outreach efforts. Individuals who have organization skills, experience in writing, speaking, and promotion and are active participants in their communities are encouraged to attend one of the upcoming information sessions. Although gardening experience helpful, it is not required. A desire and ability to fulfill the volunteer commitment is a major criterion in the selection of a potential Master Gardener.

 

The UC Master Gardener Program is a great example of partnership between the University of California and passionate volunteers. In exchange for training from the University, UC Master Gardeners offer volunteer services and outreach to the general public in more than 1,286 demonstration, community and school gardens across 50 California counties. Last year 6,154 active UC Master Gardener volunteers donated 446,237 hours, and more than 6.8 million hours have been donated since the program’s inception.

 

The next Alameda County Master Gardener training classes will be held in Hayward (address will be posted soon) on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., February 2 through May 28, 2020. In order to apply, please attend one of the following information sessions:

 

Thursday, Oct 17

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Alameda County Offices

224 W. Winton Ave., Hayward

(510) 670-5333

https://www.acgov.org/

 

Saturday, Oct 19

10 a.m. – 12 noon

Amador Recreation Center

4455 Black Ave., Pleasanton

 (925) 931-5340

http://www.cityofpleasantonca.gov/

 

Tuesday, Oct 22

1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Oakland Public Library

125-14th St., Oakland

(510) 238-3134

http://www.oaklandlibrary.org/

 

For more information about the program, please visit http://bit.ly/MG2020Training

 

 

Students move forward in scholarship award competition

Submitted by Brian Killgore

 

Students from Fremont Unified School District (FUSD) high schools were once again well-represented among the approximately 16,000 National Merit Scholarship semifinalists for 2020 named on September 11. In all, 153 FUSD students, representing all five of the district’s comprehensive high schools, were on the list, helping Fremont post the third highest number of semifinalists (158) among cities in California — trailing only San Jose (271) and San Diego (162).

 

“We are very proud to see all our high schools represented on this very special list of students,” said FUSD Superintendent, Dr. Kim Wallace. “I congratulate all our students on their hard work, along with FUSD teachers and staff, as well as parents and family members, for their support in and out of the classroom that places our students in the best position to succeed.”

 

Setting the pace for FUSD was Mission San Jose High School with 66 semifinalists — tied for the most of any high school in California. Irvington High School placed 46 students on the list, followed by American High School with 21, Washington High School with 16, and Kennedy High School with four. These FUSD students will join other semifinalists nationwide competing for 7,600 scholarships worth more than $31 million. Those selected as National Merit Scholarship Finalists will be notified in the spring.

 

Approximately 1.5 million high school juniors from 21,000 schools were considered for the 65th National Merit Scholarship Program through their performance on the 2018 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying test. To become a finalist, the semifinalist and his or her high school must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received.

 

A semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference. Fourteen FUSD students were named 2019 National Merit Scholarship Finalists last year.

 

The 2020 National Merit Scholarship winners will be announced in four nationwide news releases beginning in April and concluding in July. These scholarship recipients will join more than 345,000 other distinguished young people who have earned the Merit Scholar title. More information about the program is available on the National Merit Scholarship Corporation website at www.nationalmerit.org.

 

 

Milpitas Police Log

Submitted by Lt. Steven Fox

 

Wednesday, September 18

• At 4:43 a.m. a police lieutenant contacted three people, later identified by police as Kevin Moon Young Lee, 33 of San Jose, Eun Chong Chung, 29 of Milpitas and Niccolo Paolo Bartido, 34, of San Jose, in the parking lot of the Holiday Inn & Suites on Cadillac Court. Lee initially provided a false identity, but a records check showed his real name and that he had an outstanding felony bench warrant for identity theft. Lee was in possession of crystal methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. A search of two vehicles associated with the suspects turned up more drugs, paraphernalia, burglary tools, mail, identification cards and credit cards that appeared to be stolen. Lee and Chung were booked into the Santa Clara County Jail on various charges while Bartido was cited and released for being in possession of drug paraphernalia.

 

 

Mariners Junior Varsity shows strength

Submitted and photos by Mike Heightchew

 

The Moreau Catholic Mariners Junior Varsity appeared invincible as they took the ball down the field on their first offensive drive and never looked back. Scoring in each quarter in their September 28th meeting with the Washington Huskies Junior Varsity squad (Fremont). Although the Huskies attempted a series of tactics to slow the Mariners’ relentless advance, on this day there was no solution. Final score: Mariners 30, Huskies 0

 

 

Mutt Strut Celebrates 10th Anniversary

Submitted by Helen Kennedy

 

Are you and your furry best friend ready to strut your stuff? There’s nowhere better to flaunt it than at the New Haven Schools Foundation (NHSF) 10th Anniversary “Mutt Strut.” NHSF’s much anticipated annual fundraiser takes place Saturday, October 5 on the grounds of the historic Masonic Home, located in the Union City foothills on Mission Boulevard.

 

Registration opens at 8 a.m. leaving time for a scrumptious pancake breakfast provided by the chefs at the Masonic Home. Relax under the trees with a cup of coffee, bacon, pancakes, and all the fixings as you mingle with neighbors and friends.

 

At 9 a.m., Union City Mayor Carol Dutra-Vernaci and New Haven School Board President Sharan Kaur will lead off the Strut beginning at the bottom of the hill. Walk or run with your dog along the route that goes through the beautiful hillside property and up and around Acacia Creek, where participants will find residents cheering them on. The Strut turns then north to cross the beautiful Masonic Home campus, then finally down the hill, passing across the facade of the spectacular and historic main building.

 

You can also hang out at the park at the bottom of the hill, and the fun doesn’t end when the pup parade crosses the finish line. Tickle Me Petting Zoo will be on hand where participants can indulge their love of animals.

 

Start practicing for our entertaining “Pet Trick” contest. Last year’s winner was Jazzy, the narcoleptic dog who fell asleep in the middle of her trick. This is your chance to show off some talent! The annual doggie Halloween Costume Contest will be held again, and the hot dog dunking contest and other games will include flights tailored for small, medium, or large dogs.

 

The best part of the event is that all funds raised go directly to supplementing activities and educational programs for students and teachers in the New Haven Unified School District. This year’s event is sponsored by the Masonic Homes of California, Fremont Bank, Washington Hospital, Al and Marsha Badella, and Tri-City Voice.

 

Participants will receive breakfast, a 10th Anniversary t-shirt, a doggy bandana, and a goody bag filled with pet-related treats (while supplies last). Pre-register to ensure these promo items are reserved for you. For more information or to purchase your ticket, visit: www.muttstrut.org.

 

Mutt Strut

Saturday, Oct 5

8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Masonic Home

34400 Mission Blvd., Union City

$30 for one owner and dog, $50 family package

(510) 909-9263

www.muttstrut.org

 

 

Free Citywide Community Clean-Up

Submitted by City of Newark

 

Newark’s spring Community Clean-Up events were a success—we collected over 44 tons of bulky items, and served 198 residents. Items collected included mattresses, appliances, tires, e-waste, and reusable household goods. The next event is scheduled for Saturday, October 5. Debris boxes will be provided to help residents properly dispose or recycle bulky items that do not fit in the weekly trash collection or curbside recycling containers. The events are open to all Newark residents on a first-come, first-served basis. Recent Newark residential collection bill required, with matching identification.

Community Clean-up

Saturday, Oct 5

8 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Newark Service Center

37450 Filbert St, Newark

(510) 578-4452
http://www.newark.org/departments/newark-clean-up-days

 

 

Newark City Council

September 26, 2019

 

• Mayor Nagy expressed the city’s gratitude to Police Explorers who helped at Newark Days event.

 

Presentations and Proclamations:

• Introduce new employees: Public Safety Clerk Trevor Ware and Vehicle Abatement Officer Veronica Mora.

 

Consent Calendar:

• Second reading of ordinance to revise Newark Municipal Code affecting land uses, pedestrian walkways, landscaping, design standards, public notice requirements and other development standards.
• Amend the 2018-2020 Biennial Budget and Capital Improvement Plan for Fiscal Year 2019-2020.
• Accept $750,000 from State of California for car break-in prevention efforts. Captain Jonathan Arguello addressed the surge in “smash and grab” automobile burglaries and the multi-pronged approach to mitigate this challenge.

 

City Council Matters:

• Comments regarding successful Newark Days celebration and City Float in the parade.
• Tesla has installed a supercharger station at Lazy Dog Restaurant in Newark.
• Newark Night at professional soccer game (Oakland Roots vs Los Angeles Force) in Oakland, October 19

 

Oral Communications:

• Comment regarding Global Warming as a serious problem, especially sea level rise and flooding the City of Newark. Area 4 is especially vulnerable and development is problematic.
• Comment about Capital Corridor Rail triple-track proposal.

 

Mayor Alan Nagy, Mayor      Aye

Vice Mayor Sucy Collazo       Aye

Luis L. Freitas                         Aye

Michael K. Hannon                Aye

Mike Bucci                             Aye

 

 

Fremont News Briefs

Submitted by Anna Guiles

 

Center for Older Adults Calls for Input on New Name

The City of Fremont is building a new center to support the growing number of older adults in our community. The new complex, which broke ground on June 7, will be completed in 2021 and located at the new Mission Falls development in South Fremont.

 

The city is seeking the community’s input on naming the new center. A new topic has been added to Fremont Open City Hall, where residents can vote for their favorite name. The topic is open from September 23 through October 14 at www.Fremont.gov/OpenCityHallAgeFriendlyCenter.

 

Community members who prefer to turn in their selection by paper can drop off their selected name from the list to the front desk at either Fremont Senior Center, 40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy, or at Fremont City Hall, 3300 Capitol Avenue, Building A. For more information on the age-friendly center, visit www.Fremont.gov/AgeFriendlyCenter

 

Notice of Construction – Paseo Padre Parkway Overcrossing

Caltrans will repair a dip in the roadway on westbound Paseo Padre Parkway at the I-880 crossing. Construction work is scheduled to begin on October 1 and continue for two weeks through October 14. No weekend work is planned, but some work is scheduled during the night to minimize traffic impacts.

 

The project will correct a dip in the roadway and replace the median and sidewalk that have been damaged by the dip. During the construction, drivers should anticipate the following closures:

• Daytime Lane Closure—one lane will be closed on Paseo Padre Parkway (westbound) between Blackstone Way and Siward Drive. Work will take place between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
• Nighttime Road Closure—westbound Paseo Padre Parkway, between Blackstone Way and Siward Drive will be closed between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. Traffic will be detoured to the eastbound lane.

 

Elevated noise levels (71dba) from equipment are expected during nighttime work. For more information and the most up-to-date schedule regarding this project, visit http://www.fremont.gov/PaseoPadre880.

 

Solar Energy Workshop and Solar Tour

Spend an upcoming Saturday learning about installing solar for your home. The city is hosting a free Fremont Solar Energy Workshop and Solar Tour from 10 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday, October 5 at Irvington Community Center, 41885 Blacow Road. Learn about the basics of solar technology, benefits of going solar, and how to access discounts for solar installations and zero emission vehicles through the Bay Area SunShares Program (www.BayAreaSunShares.org).

 

After the workshop, attend the self-guided Fremont Solar Tour from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. to visit homes throughout the city that have installed solar. This is an opportunity to see solar systems up close and hear households talk about their experience and reasoning for going solar. Several homes will also be showcasing other sustainability features, including electric vehicles and drought-friendly landscaping.

 

By attending these events, you will learn how to save money on your home utility bills, cut your gas costs, reduce your greenhouse gas footprint, and drive on clean energy. To learn more and register, visit www.Fremont.gov/SolarWorkshop. These events are sponsored by City of Fremont, Business Council on Climate Change, and Northern California Solar Energy Association with support from East Bay Community Energy.

 

Fremont Patrol Tesla in News

The Fremont Police Department has been in the news recently for an incident involving the department’s electric police patrol vehicle (Tesla Model S). Fremont police first deployed the Tesla in March as a fully outfitted patrol vehicle. Over the first six months, the performance feedback and initial data collection has been very positive, and the department is in early discussions of expanding the program. During a pursuit on September 20, the battery charge began to run low, which has been the cause for recent attention.

 

On September 20, a patrol officer checked out the Tesla patrol vehicle at the start of his shift and noticed the battery was half-charged. A typical battery at full charge ranges from 220-240 miles and during an 11-hour patrol shift, Fremont patrol officers drive approximately 70-90 miles. While not policy, Fremont Police recommend officers begin their shift with at least a half tank of gas or in this case, a battery charge of 50 percent. On this date, the officer driving the Tesla noted approximately 50 percent of battery life when he began his shift. While the vehicle is routinely charged between shifts, on that day the vehicle had just been returned from the City of Fremont’s Corporation Yard. The vehicle is regularly returning at the end of every shift with 40-60 percent, if not more, of the battery charge remaining.

 

Nine hours into the officer’s shift, at 11:05 p.m., he became involved in a vehicle pursuit that lasted a total of 8 minutes. The pursuit began in the Irvington District and traveled on Washington Boulevard, before merging southbound onto I-680 toward San Jose. Within minutes, two additional Fremont patrol units were behind the Tesla and in the pursuit. Additionally, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) was notified and responding. As standard protocol, once CHP has enough units, they take over Fremont Police pursuits on the freeway.

 

The pursuit spanned approximately 10 miles and at times exceeded 110 mph. Regular updates regarding the speed, location, general traffic, and roadway conditions were provided by the second officer in the pursuit. Just before the pursuit ended at 11:13 p.m., the officer driving the Tesla responsibly notified his cover units he was going to have to back out of the pursuit because his battery was running low. Just after they passed the Montague Expressway exit, the suspect drove on the left shoulder of the road to pass a vehicle. At that time, the Fremont Police Sergeant monitoring the pursuit gave orders to terminate to ensure public safety. All three units deactivated their emergency equipment and returned to normal driving conditions. At that point, the Tesla was driven to a nearby charging station and the additional Fremont units returned to the City. CHP located the suspect’s unoccupied vehicle in the area of I-680 and the Berryessa exit. At no time did the battery of the Tesla become a factor in the officer’s ability to pursue the suspect or perform duties. This situation, while embarrassing, is no different from cases where a patrol car runs low (or even dry) of fuel.

 

In recent years police radio traffic has become readily accessible through phone applications and its common practice for news media and even community members to monitor and record. On September 23, a local journalist contacted the police department requesting additional details regarding the pursuit. The journalist subsequently wrote an article and released a portion of radio traffic. Since that time, the department has received numerous media inquiries regarding the vehicle’s battery, and public interest in the original story propelled it into the national spotlight.

 

Over the last six months, data on range, performance, equipment, and other elements has been gathered by officers on the patrol vehicle. During this time, Fremont police has documented two police pursuits, where the vehicle met and exceeded expectations. The results and data will ultimately help the department determine if the EV technology meets current patrolling applications and cost effectiveness. The department remains dedicated to the continued research into the benefits of using electric vehicles and the effects they have on the environment.

 

Captain Sean Washington stated, “So far, the vehicle is performing extremely well, and has exceeded our expectations. We are already in initial conversations about testing a second vehicle, likely an SUV model, and we look forward to providing our initial results in the future.”

 

For more information on the police department’s electric vehicle pilot program, visit www.FremontPolice.org/Tesla.

 

 

Night Market

Submitted by Sergio Suarez

Photos courtesy of Tri-City Street Fairs

 

The Tri-City Street Fair’s first ever “Night Market” is a community-based event produced by Ohlone College to celebrate local community, businesses, organizations, artists, and food. This one-of-a-kind Street Fair experience will focus on showcasing the diverse Fremont, Union City, and Newark Communities.

 

Live entertainment will be featured throughout the afternoon and early evening. Expect to see singer and songwriter Jake Yoshino, musician John Miciano, dancer Duncan Padilla, G.R.A.N.D. De Anza College Dance Company, Agency Dance Company, and DJ Power Serge. Of course, there will also be quality shopping and food.

 

An eclectic lineup of vendors includes Anam Crafts, Chalk Couture, Half Price Books, Origami Owl, and Sweet Hope Soap Co. Food trucks Porchetta Toscana, Tono Coffee Project, and Rice Rockit Food Truck will be there serving up artisan coffee and a variety of snacks and sides. Young attendees will enjoy a free kids’ jumper, face painting, chalk zone, and more.

 

All revenue generated goes to students, so by supporting our vendors, you also support our students: a win-win for everyone. For the day of the event only, parking will be FREE campus wide. See some of the Bay Area's best arts, crafts and designers in an evening of soul moving music, tasty eats, and beautiful fall weather at the Ohlone College Tri-City Street Fair – Night Market.

 

Night Market

Saturday, Oct 5

2 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Ohlone College Newark Campus, Parking Lot B

39399 Cherry St., Newark

(510) 742-2350

streetfair@ohlone.edu

 

 

Old St. Edwards gets new plaque

Submitted by Al Minard

 

Washington Township Historical Society is proud to announce the dedication of a historical plaque on Old St. Edwards Catholic Church on the Southeast corner of Sycamore Street and Graham Avenue, which was completed nearly 140 years ago. Everyone is welcome to attend on Saturday, October 5 at 10 a.m. There will be live music, brief speeches and light refreshments that will remind you of a time before television and the internet.

 

In 1879 Old St. Edwards was built on five acres of land and $1,000 donated by rail baron Jim Fair, who built the railroad that built Newark. At the time, Newark was advertised as the “Chicago of the West, a Great Manufacturing, Dairying and Agricultural Center.” Completed in 1880, Old St Edwards was the first church built in Newark. The Church was a mission of St. Joseph’s in Mission San Jose. Construction was supervised by St. Joseph’s Father Peter J. Kaiser, who died shortly after the church was completed.

 

In 1886, Old St. Edwards became a mission church of the Parish of Holy Ghost in Centerville. Old St. Edwards became its own parish in 1920 with Father John F. Casey as the first pastor. In the 1950’s, the church began to feel small for the growing parish community in Newark, and the new St. Edward's Church on Thornton Ave was consecrated on April 20, 1958, by Father Thomas P. Gilbert. In 1981, the church was bought for the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel and named Rose of Sharon. It was first led by Rev. & Mrs. Dwight Morris. In 2006, a daughter congregation of Rose of Sharon founded by Rev. Fred and Lilian Pintal, “Living Hope,” moved over to Newark from Union City. The current pastors are Rev. Nelson and Divina Dizon.

 

This building’s history is as rich as that of Newark itself, and Washington Township Historical Society hopes all those interested will be able to come to mark this commemoration of a bit of town history. For more information, contact Al Minard at alminard@comcast.net.

 

Old St. Edwards plaque dedication

Saturday, Oct 5

10 a.m.

Southeast corner of Sycamore St. & Graham Ave

7160 Graham Ave., Newark

alminard@comcast.net

 

 

Olive Festival

Submitted by Gary Dorighi

Photos courtesy of Mission San Jose Chamber of Commerce

 

The 18th annual “Olive Festival” will be held Saturday, October 5 – Sunday, October 6, presented by the Mission San Jose (MSJ) Chamber of Commerce. Bring your families to enjoy food, live music and entertainment, arts and crafts, kids’ activities, beer and wine, as well as drawings and prizes. Shop for everything from olive oil and olive wood products to gourmet and specialty foods and honey.

 

Hungry? Enjoy a delicious variety of chicken and ribs, French pizza, linguica sandwiches, kettle corn, dole whip, and Italian ice. For drinks, choose from local craft beer, assorted wines, water, and sodas.

 

This year’s live music includes local favorites such as Across Party Lines and the always-entertaining Dixie Dominus Traditional Jazz Band. Returning this year will be Mission San Jose High School Band and Wadaiko Newark Taiko drum group. If you are looking for dance, we have Chinese Liturgical Dancers and Hula Moves group.

 

The festival is located behind Historic Old Mission San Jose in the Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose Olive Grove. Enter via Mission Tierra Place, or park on Mission Boulevard and walk through Bicentennial Plaza. Please do not bring pets to the festival.

 

Funds raised from the Olive Festival are used to support additional MSJ Chamber community events including the Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration at the Old School Building on Mission Boulevard, the Daffodil Project, and other community endeavors.

 

Olive Festival

Saturday Oct 5 – Sunday Oct 6

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

43326 Mission Blvd., Fremont

Behind Historic Old Mission San Jose

www.msjchamber.org

info@msjchamber.org

 

 

On the Verge by Nancy Brown

Submitted by Olive Hyde Art Guild

 

Using radically de-focused photographs, Nancy Brown creates luminous, enigmatic images that seem to emerge from that time between sleep and waking, before words and before thought. They suggest a fluidity of form and identity on the verge of transformation. Join us at our reception on Friday, October 4 to see the opening of this beautiful photographic exhibition and mingle with other art enthusiasts.

 

Opening Reception

Friday, Oct 4

7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

 

On the Verge

Friday, Oct 4 – Saturday, Nov 2

Thurs – Sun: 12 noon – 5 p.m.

Olive Hyde Art Gallery

123 Washington Blvd., Fremont

(510) 791-4357

olivehydeartguild.org