The ABCs of Learning Hindi
By Madhvika Singh
Photos courtesy of Neha Nabar
Neha Nabar, currently a senior at Washington High School, grew up in a multilingual household. It was a very enriching learning environment for her. Her mom used to read Hindi stories, and Nabar took classes to learn Hindi as a young child. She would go check out books that were available to learn Hindi, but there always seemed to be something missing. She found the books that were available to be limited and unintuitive, especially for a non-native speaker like herself. Still, she persisted and took Hindi as a foreign language course in high school, and over time began tutoring younger children.
While tutoring, she encountered the same issue of lack of books that would capture her students’ interest. “I needed to create engaging material to not only help my students, but also act as the resource that I never had,” shared Nabar. That seeded in her the thought of writing a book for her students. “That, along with my love for art and storytelling, I decided to pursue writing the book,” she added.
The book, “Rangeela Bhaarat (Colorful India): A bilingual, Hindi book about colors!” is the fruit of Nabar’s dedication and pursuit of her goal despite challenges. One hurdle that Nabar faced was being a newcomer to the process of writing and publishing a book. Her enthusiasm was met with a more conservative approach of focusing on academics and she herself was aware that many personal projects never make it to completion. But Nabar was determined to see this project through. “I worked towards ensuring that I met my own self-made deadlines so that I could avoid abandoning the project and see the product to fruition,” says Nabar. She made dedicated efforts to reach out to people for advice and feedback, and researched various platforms about writing, publishing and search engine optimization (SEO) to get her book visibility.
Nabar is thrilled at the outcome of her efforts. The book has won several accolades including multiple Story Monsters Approved 2022 Awards (https://www.storymonstersbookawards.com), and was a finalist in the Children’s Educational Picture Book (6 years and up) category at the 2023 Next Generation Indie Book Awards (https://indiebookawards.com/). This recognition led to an invitation to the American Librarian Association (ALA) 2023 Conference in Chicago.
“I had a lot of fun planning and executing the illustrations on Procreate (https://procreate.com), learning its technical aspects, and creating the storyline. The addition of small details such as having a line Hindi, English, and Hinglish (Hindi in Latin Script) made the book more accessible to my intended audience,” shared Nabar. The end result of the process was a product that was greater than anything she could have imagined when she began her journey. “When I see international sales on the book, as well as its impact on the local community, I’m glad that I decided to pursue it,” she added. The book is available to buy on Amazon.com.
The book features various aspects of Indian culture, from traditional food items to common apparel. It also has rhyming text, lively illustrations, and informational glossary to engage and encourage young readers to learn the language while introducing them to Indian culture. “I have been hosting Hindi-English story time sessions for children at the Alameda County Union City library to bring the love of learning to the local community,” said Nabar. The next session is scheduled for November 4. For the latest information, visit https://aclibrary.org/locations/ucy/ and look under “Events.” “The process has been extremely fun so far. The activities involve reading the book, teaching about the colors in Hindi, learning a poem and a coloring activity,” shared Nabar. She also plans to expand this event to more local libraries in the future.
Nabar plans to continue writing after graduating high school and focus on developing bilingual storytimes and introducing more children to the benefits of learning Hindi. She would like to pursue another children’s book focusing on the issue of mental health and confronting the stigma in the South Asian community, along with exploring bilingualism, and its effects on cognitive development.
Hindi / English Storytime
Saturday, Nov 4
1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
https://aclibrary.org/locations/ucy/
‘Eerie-sistible’ Halloween Fundraiser Returns Friday, the 13th
By Kay Vargas
Photos courtesy of Tricia Sparling
For fifty-three years, The Candle Lighters Ghost House in Fremont has been a yearly tradition for many locals, both young and old. When the trees start to shed their leaves, locals flock to the Chadbourne Carriage house, all with the same intention in mind, to have fun and to help others.
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Candle Lighters closed its doors for the first time in its history. During this two-year closure, locals eagerly awaited the opportunity to attend once again, possibly catching themselves daydreaming about the experience. In these dreams there is a gentle chill in the air and the night is black…green-faced witches and elaborate fairy wings are illuminated by the moon. There is a spooky but jovial atmosphere, highlighted by the laughter of children, and a warm aroma of caramel that lingers in the air…
Fortunately, in 2022, locals saw these dreams come true. Candle Lighters returned, stronger than ever. The community rejoiced and the re-opening was proof of this, with a turnout of over 17,000 ticket sales, the largest attendance in the Candle Lighters history.
Families and friends joined at the ghost house to enjoy the music, to play games, buy a small trinket from the country store, and of course, to experience the delicious sense of fright when walking through the ghost house.
What truly makes this experience special is the fact that it is completely volunteer operated.
Community members of all ages and backgrounds flock to the Chadbourne Carriage House in October to do their part. Tricia Sparling, Candle Lighters 2023 President, recounts seeing this “magic” occurrence, where teenagers and 90-year-olds come together, elaborating, “[This] volunteer work is unique because there is a job for everyone and [it] truly involves community efforts…everyone brings their talents.” Volunteers can be seen in trailers coordinating costumes, applying theatre-esque makeup and prosthetics, assembling structures, creating games, and everything in between.
This unique Halloween attraction is scheduled to resume on the spookiest of all days… Friday, the 13th. Visitors should prepare to experience “Voodoo on the Bayou,” 2023’s ghost house theme, which is said to be reminiscent of “all things spooky in Victorian New Orleans…”
The yearly “Kid’s Costume Parade” has also been scheduled for Saturday, October 21. Registration opens at 12:30 p.m. and the parade will start at 1:00 p.m. Each participant will be assigned an entry number and gifted with a goodie bag. Trophies will be awarded in several age categories.
And as always, visitors can expect to experience a pinch of fright, a bit of thrill, and a heaping serving of wholesome community fun.
Proceeds from the 2023 Candle Lighter’s Ghost House will benefit the following local non-profits: Fremont-Centerville Little League, Ohlone Humane Society Wildlife Rehabilitation, New Haven Schools Foundation, JFK Wrestling/Fremont Warriors Wrestling Club, Gardens at Palmdale, Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum and HERS Breast Cancer Foundation.
Interested in taking part? Volunteers are always welcome. Contact Candle Lighters at fr*******************@gm***.com
Candle Lighter’s Ghost House
Friday, October 13 – Tuesday, October 30
Mon – Thurs: 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Fri: 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Sat: 3 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Sun: 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Chadbourne Carriage House
39169 Fremont Boulevard, Fremont
(510) 796-0595
Fr*******************@gm***.com
Tickets: Ghost House Admission $5
Games $1
Accepting Cash and Major Credit Cards
Train of Lights tickets are now on sale!
Submitted by Niles Canyon Railway
Take the whole family on an enchanting holiday excursion! “Niles Train of Lights” will be back for the holidays, running November 17 through December 29. Enjoy a 1.5 hour-long round trip through Niles Canyon filled with refreshments, music, and cheer aboard our antique coaches and open cars that feature holiday lights and decorations inside and out.
The Train of Lights offers a rare opportunity to experience a train ride through Niles Canyon at night. The earlier Niles departure leaves when it’s still light enough to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Niles Canyon but dark enough on the return trip to enjoy the train’s mesmerizing lights. With one departure at dusk and a second departure from Sunol after dark, you can choose your favorite time to ride.
The Train of Lights has been an annual tradition for many Bay Area families for more than a decade. Make it yours too!
Departure Time and Location
Trains depart from Niles at 4:30 p.m. and Sunol at 7:30 p.m. on weekends and select weekday evenings throughout the holiday season from November 17 to December 29, 2023. (Trains will not operate on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day).(Departure time availability may differ on a few days.)
Purchase Your Tickets
Tickets are available online for all departures, and your ticket includes a round trip on your selected departure. These trains are very popular and often sell out well in advance, so we recommend you purchasing tickets as early as possible. All passengers age three or older require tickets. Infants and children under three do not need a ticket if they are sitting on a lap, but if they take up a seat, then they will need a ticket.
If you have a wheelchair or need other special assistance, please contact us. ADA wheelchair access is only to selected (covered) Open Cars, due to the narrow doors on our antique coaches.
Train of Lights is our flagship fundraising event for the year, so tickets are not refundable.
General Seating
General seating tickets include an unreserved seat in one of our regular passenger coaches or open cars. General seating tickets – $35
First Class Dome
First Class Dome tickets include a reserved seat in the Santa Fe 505 Dome Car. Enjoy swivel seats in the upper level glass dome during part of your ride for an unparalleled canyon view and a cozy lounge with attendant, and during the rest of your ride, enjoy the lower part of the dome car in the lounge, bar, or dining area. $65
First Class Parlor
First Class Parlor tickets include a reserved seat in the Southern Pacific 10040 Dining Car.
Enjoy the ride from some of the best seats on the train, in a car appointed with the original Cuban Mahogany interior. $65
Private Caboose
Reserve an entire caboose just for your group, and climb up into the cupola for a bird’s-eye view of the train with a docent aboard to tell you about the railroad. Our Santa Fe cabooses provide a special ride for groups of up to 24 people (depending on whether they are adult-sized or child-sized), and tables are available on-board for serving your refreshments. There are windows on the main floor, but the best view of the train is from the seats high up in the cupola.
However, there are no bathrooms on board the caboose, and there is no access to the rest of the train (including the Commissary Counter) during the ride. $750 flat fee
Prepare for the Ride
Trains run rain or shine, and the canyon can get very cold and windy at night in the winter. The train includes inside and outside seating, but we don’t guarantee an inside seat, so be prepared for cold, wind, and inclement weather and dress accordingly. Allow more time to get to your boarding location and park if there’s bad weather. The Train of Lights runs at night, so a small flashlight may be useful to help you move safely between your vehicle and the train.
Check your boarding location before leaving home so you go to the correct location for your departure. Trains leave on time, so arrive early. Boarding begins about 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time, so please be at the station and parked at least a half hour before your departure so you have time to pick up your tickets and board.
We board and seat passengers with special needs first, so if you need assistance boarding, you should arrive even earlier, and mention your needs to the train crew when you arrive.
Parking lots are located at our boarding areas at Niles Station and Sunol Depot. There is limited ADA parking, so arrive early and have your placard visible. Especially for Sunol, large vehicles (Larger pick-up trucks, RVs, etc.) must park further away, so if you have a large vehicle, arrive even earlier.
Niles Train of Lights
Select dates: Nov 17 – Dec 29
4:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Niles Station
37029 Mission Boulevard
Sunol Station
6 Kilkare Rd., Sunol
(510) 996-8420
www.ncry.org/ride/train-of-lights
Tickets: $35 – 65
Fremont Area Writers Celebrate California Writers Week
Submitted by Tish Davidson
Twenty years ago, the California State Assembly, encouraged by the California Writers Club, officially declared the third week in October as California Writers Week. The legislative declaration states that the California Writers Club, which has 22 branches throughout the state, has a mission to “teach, mentor and encourage all writers for the good of our society.” It urges California libraries to support the works of California writers through displays, author programs and reading clubs.
The California Writers Club began with informal gatherings of novelist Jack London, poet George Sterling and short story writer Herman Whitaker. It was incorporated as a non-profit in 1913, and the local branch, Fremont Area Writers, was founded in 2009. Fremont Area Writers subscribes to the motto “writers helping writers” to help both aspiring and experienced authors advance their skills, learn about publishing opportunities, and promote and sell their books and articles. To further these goals, the branch sponsors speakers at a free monthly general Zoom meeting as well as free monthly smaller groups where writers can jumpstart their creativity or read their work in a judgment-free environment.
California’s literary tradition dates back to the works of Mark Twain, Nobel prize winner John Steinbeck, and Raymond Chandler. Local area writers are carrying on this tradition. Their books are on display in the lobby of the Fremont Main Library for the entire month of October. Stop by and learn how Fremont Area Writers can help you write your poems, your novel, or your memoir. For more information, visit https://cwc-fremontareawriters.org.
Family Friendly Chalk Festival
Submitted by Pacific Commons
Pacific Commons will host a fun-filled Chalk Festival on Sunday, October 15. The event will showcase the work of talented local artists who will create life-sized chalk murals on the pavement. Using hundreds of sticks of pastel chalk, their work will feature an array of eclectic, mesmerizing, and breathtaking designs in every style imaginable – from classical and contemporary to whimsical and socially relevant.
The Chalk Festival will also offer a variety of family-friendly activities including a Kids Chalk Zone where children will be invited to create their own chalk masterpieces, as well as talented balloon twisters and face painters. This event is free and open to the public; no pre-registration is required.
Pacific Commons Chalk Festival
Sunday, Oct 15
12 noon – 3 p.m.
The Block Plaza near Koja Kitchen
43440 Boscell Rd., Fremont
Coffee and Conversation with Cohousers
By Evelyn LaTorre, Mission Peak Village
Are you curious about the people who decide to live in Cohousing? Are they introverts or extroverts, retired or working, old or young, cautious or adventurous? They have all those characteristics, and more. Join members of Fremont’s first Cohousing community, Mission Peak Village on Sunday, October 15 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Mission Coffee to discover why you might want to join them in this venture.
Cohousing is a growing lifestyle choice that combats the isolation prevalent in many housing developments. Through celebrations, group meals, and other events in the Common House, residents participate in as much connection as they desire. Cohousers are their own developers and take an active role in designing homes that promote that interaction.
Mission Peak Village’s centrally located 5,000 sq. ft. kitchen-dining-living area has a children’s play area, two guest rooms, a room for remote working, an exercise room, and a laundromat. It will open onto a large patio/barbeque area and a green space filled with trees, a natural play area, and a vegetable garden. The group’s 32 two-and-three-bedroom units, many with views of Mission Peak, will be built on a quiet street in the Irvington district close to public transportation, a farmer’s market, walking and biking trails, and Central Park.
So, on October 15 at 2 p.m., come to Mission Coffee, grab a coffee, and meet the friendly people who plan to live at Mission Peak Village. The residents and their village might be the connection you’ve been yearning for.
For information about Mission Peak Village, call Kelli at (510) 413-8446 or visit our website: www.missionpeakcohousing.org.
Coffee and Conversation with Cohousers
Sunday, Oct 15
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Mission Coffee
151 Washington Blvd., Fremont
Spend a Day on the Bay!
Submitted by County of Santa Clara
The County of Santa Clara proudly presents the fun-filled “Day on the Bay” festival along the beautiful South Bay shores of Alviso. Our 2023 event, held on October 14, will include a resource fair and showcase the beautiful Alviso Marina, along with several family-friendly and recreation activities. This special event is a wonderful opportunity for small businesses and public agencies to share information, services, and resources with the local community.
Historically, Day on the Bay has drawn more than 10,000 people to enjoy activities and celebrate the rich diversity and abundance of our community’s cultural expression. According to The Mercury News, this is the most attended event in the historic waterfront town of Alviso.
Our 2023 free event will include:
- Health Services and Resource Fair – more than 100 booths and vendors
- Flu Shots and COVID Booster Vaccines
- Pumpkins for Kids
- Kayak Rentals – Provided by Laine’s Baits
- Marina Boat Tours with County of Santa Clara Parks
- Youth Activities
- Food Trucks
- Entertainment
We’re also excited for Bike To The Bay Ride 2023. There are TWO rides happening this year: the Primary San Jose Ride & Sunnyvale Support Ride. RSVP for the ride on Eventbrite.
For the primary ride, gather at James McEntee Plaza at 70 West Hedding Street beginning 9 a.m. The eight-mile family friendly ride will follow the Guadalupe River Trail, with a stopover at Riverview Park for anyone who prefers a shorter ride. The Sunnyvale Support ride will follow the 2022 route, also with gathering starting at 9 a.m.
The bicycle remains the best alternative to cars and automobiles, and with our Free Bike Valet Parking hosted by Silicon Valley Bike Coalition, riding your bike to the festival is the best choice for fun!
Thanks to the support of County of Santa Clara Parks, the Office of Supervisor Otto Lee, and our sponsors, we are able to provide this event to the community for free.
Saturday, Oct 14
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Alviso Marina County Park
1195 Hope St., San Jose
(408) 262-6980
https://d3.santaclaracounty.gov/day-bay-2023-event
https://d3.santaclaracounty.gov/bike-bay-ride
Groundbreaking exhibit at de Young Fine Arts Museum features 883 Bay Area artists
Submitted by Adriane Dedic
The de Young Fine Arts Museum in San Francisco Golden Gate Park opened a new exhibit that features 883 Bay Area artists showcasing their newest unique and exciting works of art. The museum’s largest galleries are filled with mixed media, fiber art, painting, photography, drawing, prints, sculpture, video, film, and digital art. Pieces are loosely grouped by themes such as historical and contemporary politics, social issues, the urban environment, nature, abstraction, surreal imagery, and the human figure. Four popular artists from our Tri-City area are among those selected for this exhibition.
Denise Oyama Miller is a Fremont artist working in textiles and mixed media. She shows her work nationally and internationally. Her textile, “Urban Reflections,” depicts the distorted image of a newly constructed housing development on office building window panels. This image raises the question as to whether “affordable housing” is a reality or just an abstract concept as shown by the reflection.
Farshid Namei is a Newark artist known for her beautifully rendered oil portraits. She has won numerous national and international awards. Her endearing portrait of her young niece, The Geek, captures the moment her niece put on Farshid’s glasses which were too big so she had to hold her head up to keep them from falling off her face.
Robyn Leimer, also a Fremont artist, enjoys the spontaneity of plein air painting. She likes starting out with nothing, creating a composition and being in the moment; able to absorb it all from sight to sound. Her oil painting “Mendocino Arch I” was inspired by a windy day in Mendocino. She remembers it was beautiful and wild as she stared at the crisp jewel-like colors in the water.
Adriane Dedic is a Newark artist whose figurative art has been exhibited widely throughout the United States. Her fabric collage, “Eve In the Garden Of Persimmons In Winter,” reimagines Eve beneath a gorgeous persimmon tree, ready to taste a sweet, ripe, orange persimmon as lace snowflakes fall. Her inspiration is the stark contrast of bright orange persimmons dangling on dark brown leafless branches in winter.
The de Young Museum has an online version of the 883 pieces on exhibit: https://deyoungopen2023.artcall.org/pages/web-gallery
If you visit the de Young Open, look for the paintings and textiles by these four talented artists. Denise, Farshid, Robyn, and Adriane are active in the Olive Hyde Art Guild and recently had art on display in their Fremont gallery. They will have boutique art pieces for sale at the Gallery during the upcoming fall Holiday for the Arts on October 20, 21, and 22. You can see more art by Adriane and Farshid during Newark Artists Open Studios in December.
Registrar of Voters to hire 2,000 Election Workers
Submitted by Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters’ Office
The County of Santa Clara ROV office is now accepting applications for election workers for the March 5, 2024, Presidential Primary Election. The 2,000 election workers are needed to assist at the main office and at over 100 Vote Centers located throughout the county. Bilingual speakers are strongly encouraged to apply.
“At the Registrar of Voters, we work every day to ensure fair, inclusive, accurate, and transparent elections,” said Shannon Bushey, Registrar of Voters, “Election workers play an integral role in helping us deliver on that promise.” Election workers will have the opportunity to work at the ROV office, in the warehouse, or at a Vote Center. Available positions include:
- Vote Center Lead
- Assistant Trainer
- Elections Aide
- Warehouse Worker
- Courier
- Office Extra Help
Opportunities are also available for volunteers and high school students. Volunteers will receive a fixed stipend, while high school students may opt for either a stipend or community service credits. Learn how to become a volunteer at https://sccvote.sccgov.org/get-involved/work-vote-center.
For more information about job opportunities, contact the Registrar of Voters’ Administrative Services Division at (408) 918-9169 or visit www.sccvote.org/now_hiring.
Ohlone tribal traditions endure test of time
By Rob Klindt
A recurring theme at the recent Gathering of Ohlone Peoples event at Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont was, “We’re still here.”
The gathering, held Sunday, October 1 at the park’s visitor center, brought together more than 100 descendants from tribes of Costanoan Ohlone native people who called the Northern California coastal area home before European settlers arrived centuries ago. Many of the tribes lived in villages in the area that now is Coyote Hills Regional Park.
“I have many cousins here,” Sacramento-based artist Joann Denys said as she displayed a large collection of her handmade indigenous jewelry and crafts for sale. Denys is part of the Costanoan Esselen Ohlone tribe.
Since 1994, the park has hosted the annual gathering each fall to honor the Ohlones and other varied tribal backgrounds including the Muwekma, Bay Miwok. This year’s event attracted more than 1,500 visitors hoping to experience living Ohlone history and traditions through music, songs, stories, food, games, and crafts.
Richard Ho of Fremont brought his two pre-teen daughters to the gathering for the first time. “I wanted to show the kids different communities,” Ho said as he and the girls sampled fresh Navajo bread baked on the premises.
Visitors like the Ho family had a chance to see demonstrations of how Ohlone tribes used natural land resources for making baskets, jewelry, soaproot brushes and dogbane cordage strings. Additionally, visitors could play a traditional stick and hoop game, and try their hands at making raffia cordage rope bracelets, pine bead and abalone necklaces, and other crafts.
The park visitor center also maintains a year-round exhibit of Ohlone artifacts including a tule reed boat constructed by park staff and volunteers using Native American methods, and a tule house replica made from bent willow branches that may have been used on the site in the ancient village of Tuibun 2,000 years ago.
Mike Bonillas, a Hayward native who now lives in Fresno, traces his ancestry to Costanoan tribes that established villages along the coast from present-day San Francisco Bay to the Salinas Valley and Monterey. “It’s important to honor them and the contributions they made in early California,” Bonillas said, adding that he has been attending the Coyote Hills gathering for about 30 years.
Bonillas, wearing a mixture of indigenous handcrafted necklaces and colorful bracelets, enthusiastically chatted with visitors at his vendor booth about the Ohlone tribe’s way of life. He offered an array of handmade baskets, drum sets, and wooden flutes for sale. The most unusual flute he had was one that is played by blowing air into it from one nostril while pinching the other nostril closed. He noted that it takes a lot of practice and concentration to play.
Atop a nearby knoll, performers demonstrated indigenous music and songs while wearing Costanoan jewelry and face paint. They also answered visitor questions about how early Costanoan tribes utilized the land’s natural resources. Later, other groups shared tribal living history through dance and stories.
It was evident that there are lots of Costanoan descendants today, including young people like Aaliyah Arellano, 16, of San Jose who was helping to run one of the vendor booths. She summed up her experience as an important way to celebrate Costanoan history and to remind people to “show respect for our culture and acknowledge our heritage.”
H.A.R.D. hosts successful inclusion working group
Submitted by Nicole Espinoza Roa
On September 26, the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (H.A.R.D.) held its first hybrid Inclusion Working Group Meeting, a significant step towards fostering an inclusive and accessible environment for the community. The meeting, attended by various stakeholders, aimed to provide feedback on district projects, facilities, and programs, ensuring they cater to the community’s diverse needs. The group discussed several pertinent topics, including H.A.R.D.’s current inclusion procedures, adaptive recreation programs, and the public process for new construction and renovations.
The Inclusion Working Group Meeting served as a platform for community members to voice their opinions and suggestions. Jessica Hallowell, Recreation Coordinator II for Therapeutic Recreation and Special Needs Programs, presented insights into the district’s adaptive recreation programs, receiving positive feedback about their accessibility and effectiveness. Michael C. Williams, Trails Program Manager, also shared valuable information regarding the public process for new construction and renovations, emphasizing the importance of community engagement. Attendees discussed various aspects, including improving accessibility for people with disabilities, enhancing sidewalk connectivity to parks, and proximity to public transportation.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to enhancing communication, accessibility, and inclusivity within the District. The H.A.R.D. staff is looking forward to its next meeting in the spring, where additional topics related to the Access for All Program application process, an initiative designed to enhance the accessibility of H.A.R.D.’s activity programs, and accessibility of District parks and facilities will be discussed.
Please consult the recreation guide for more information about H.A.R.D.’s adaptive programs.
HaywardRec.org
Hayward Disposal Days
Submitted by City of Hayward
The City of Hayward Maintenance Services Department is hosting its next “Disposal Days” event on Saturday, October 14, providing community members an additional way to dispose of household debris safely and legally free of charge.
The 2023 Disposal Days program allows residents of the City of Hayward to bring up to five cubic yards of household items for disposal to the city transfer station six times per year on the second Saturday of February, April, June, August, October and December. Five cubic yards is about the equivalent of one full bed of an average size pick-up truck.
Program registration for the October 14 event is now open. The bi-monthly events will be held regardless of weather conditions at the time.
The following items are not accepted at the transfer station:
- Hazardous materials, including paint, motor oil, solvents, cleaners, pesticides, tires and car batteries
- Objects over 75 pounds (except furniture and appliances)
- Medical waste
- Construction and demolition debris
- Rocks, bricks, dirt, concrete
Disposal Days is open to residents of incorporated City of Hayward only, and preregistration and proof of Hayward residency is required. Registration space is limited and typically fills up fast. To learn more, including how to register and join the waiting list, go online to www.hayward-ca.gov, to the program page on the City of Hayward website or contact Maintenance Services at (510) 881-7745 or di***********@ha********.gov.
Disposal Days
Saturday, Oct 14
7 a.m. – 12 noon
City Transfer Station
3455 Enterprise Ave., Hayward
(510) 881-7745
Olive Hyde’s ‘Holiday for the Arts’ Show 2023
Submitted by Seema Gupta
Each year at Olive Hyde Art Guild, we eagerly await our annual “Holiday for the Arts” Show & Sale event as a harbinger of the season of love, joy, and giving. This year marks the 39th year of celebrating.
A ticketed Gala kicks off the three-day event on Friday, October 20, from 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. More than 500 people usually attend. Specialty foods and drinks are offered alongside the first viewing and sale of high-quality handcrafted objects and original art. Tickets are $20 per person, and can be purchased in advance or at the door. Attendees at the Opening Night Gala will enjoy live music by Steve Kritzer. The sale continues free to the public on Saturday, October 21, and Sunday, October 22, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.
Our signature community event and only fundraiser, which may generate upwards of $25,000, supports the Guild’s activities throughout the year, such as funding art programs and supplies in local schools, art scholarships for high school and Ohlone College students, art program fees and purchase of art supplies for children in need, purchase of art books for public libraries, special art workshops for developmentally disabled adults, capital improvements at the Olive Hyde Art Gallery, special gallery exhibits and gallery promotions for all exhibits.
More than seventy local and out-of-area artists will be participating in 2023, with an extensive array of art that includes paintings, photography, ceramics, glass, metal, jewelry, fiber, wood and holiday goods. Among the participants, about 15 are new to the show. We will have the pleasure of viewing their works for the first time. Additionally, top-selling artists from last year, such as Akio Aochi, Debbie Baldwin, Julia Cline, Julie Hale, Susan Howell, Minoti Kundargi, Matthaus Lam, Shobha Madegowda, Rosario Milelli, Denise Oyama Miller, Eileen Morrison, and many more will be returning with new creations for sale.
Gala Night also includes a drawing for an original mixed-media painting donated by our featured artist Dmitry Grudsky. With a master’s degree from the Tashkent Art Institute in Uzbekistan, Dmitry has been teaching and creating environmental art for the community in and around the Bay Area for more than 25 years. Dmitry has exhibited nationally and internationally and has been accepted into the Society of American Mosaic Artists’ International Juried Show.
Make sure not to miss this once-in-a-year opportunity to view and purchase artifacts for yourself or for those on your holiday shopping list who would be delighted to receive a unique artistic gift. Hope to see you all there!
Opening Night Gala
Friday, October 20
5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Show and Sale
Saturday, Oct 21 & Sunday, Oct 22
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Olive Hyde Art Gallery
123 Washington Blvd., Fremont
(510) 791-4357
Fremont empowers future workforce with Manufacturing Week
Submitted by Geneva Bosques
In recognition of National Manufacturing Day, the City of Fremont has concluded its 12th annual “Manufacturing Week,” a series of factory tours and presentations at Fremont-based manufacturers for high school and college students aimed at inspiring the next generation to explore careers in manufacturing and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Over 350 students from four schools and universities attended Manufacturing Week (October 2 to October 6), which consisted of 13 tours from 11 manufacturers across various industry sectors such as life sciences, semiconductors, cleantech, supply chain, and auto tech.
“Manufacturing is a critical industry to our city’s economy, with Fremont offering 45,000 jobs in high-tech, life science, and advanced manufacturing,” said Fremont Mayor Lily Mei. “Fremont is home to the most (advanced) manufacturing jobs in the state of California. During Manufacturing Week, we welcomed local students back to our flagship manufacturers to showcase our world-class, innovative facilities and to inspire the next generation of Fremont manufacturers.”
“It can be difficult for students and young adults to consider careers that they haven’t been exposed to,” said Ohlone College President Charles Sasaki. “Manufacturing Week helps students explore the full array of career opportunities available in advanced manufacturing and STEM.”
Employees from Fremont-based manufacturers served as ambassadors during the tours by interacting directly with students. They shared their educational and career journeys, providing students with a firsthand look at each company and advanced modern manufacturing techniques and machinery.
Oxford Economics and the Semiconductor Industry Association estimates that the recently passed CHIPS Act will spur nearly 115,000 jobs across America by 2030, and the U.S. Department of Energy’s 2022 U.S. Energy and Employment Report (USEER) showcased immense growth across all major clean energy occupations. Through Manufacturing Week, the city is taking proactive steps to prepare for the upcoming workforce needs of these industries — strengthening Fremont’s role as an advanced manufacturing hub in Silicon Valley.
“When thinking of careers in manufacturing, people often visualize human assembly lines assisted by outdated machinery, but this isn’t what manufacturing looks like today,” said Jose Hernandez, SVP of Manufacturing at Bloom Energy. “Our team at Bloom Energy had the opportunity to showcase how exciting and impactful a career in modern manufacturing can be, particularly one in the emerging green economy where we get to work on pressing issues like decarbonization, sustainable clean energy, and resilient power infrastructure.”
There are currently over 900 advanced manufacturing companies located in Fremont, and 35% of jobs in Fremont are in manufacturing.
California Masons present $126,824 donation to Giants community fund
Submitted by Sophie Booth
Building on 15 years of partnership, Masons of California, in affiliation with Giants Community Fund, are proud to announce that they have raised $126,824 this season for youth development programs through their signature Masons4Mitts baseball mitt drive, marking a total of $2 million donated through MLB community foundations since Masons4Mitts was established in 2009. Since then, Masons of California donations have provided over 59,000 mitts to boys and girls from underserved areas in Northern California through the Giants Community Fund, and more than 100,000 mitts to players across the state.
Each year, Masons4Mitts teams up with the San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Los Angeles Dodgers, and San Diego Padres to purchase real, leather baseball mitts that are given, free of charge, to young ballplayers in junior leagues across California. Through youth baseball, Masons4Mitts and its partners provide children with a safe place to play while they develop key collaboration skills, learn about health and nutrition, build productive study habits and more.
In recognition of this important milestone, the Masons of California and the Giants Community Fund hosted a special pregame celebration in advance of the September 26 Giants-Padres game. During the pregame ceremony, Masons of California presented a check to the Giants Community Fund on the field. Among those in attendance at this special event were:
Sean Metroka, Deputy Grand Master, Masons of California
Doug Ismail, President, California Masonic Foundation
David San Juan, Grand Master, Prince Hall Masonry
Aaron Washington, Senior Grand Warden, Prince Hall
Alexander Teodoro and Mark McNee, Board Members, California Masonic Foundation
John Feeley, Board Alumni Leadership Council Member, Giants Community Fund
Masons4Mitts is one of several ways the California Masons support youth education and development. Other philanthropic endeavors include: the Investment in Success scholarship program for high school seniors who demonstrate extraordinary potential despite difficult circumstances; their partnership with Raising A Reader to bring literacy programs to under-resourced elementary schools; and their partnership with the San Diego Padres through the Johnny Ritchey Scholarship program to support first-generation, underserved high school seniors.
Pen Women
Submitted by Winifred Thompson
“Shout Out for Pen Women!” is the theme of a reception for the Pen Women art show on Saturday, October 14. At the show, paintings from 10 artists will be exhibited in the Lobby of the Castro Valley Center for the Arts.
Pen Women art reception
Saturday, Oct 14
4:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m.
Castro Valley Center for the Arts
19501 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
Are your grandparents and senior neighbors prepared for an emergency?
Submitted by PG&E Marketing and Communications
When it comes to preparing for a natural disaster or emergency don’t forget some of the most important people in your life. Senior citizens, people like your grandparents or an elderly neighbor, can use a helping hand to get ready. PG&E’s Safety Action Center has a toolkit for seniors and their caregivers to help prepare for an emergency. The Safety Action Center (safetyactioncenter.pge.com) is PG&E’s online preparedness resource, which provides information to help customers keep their families, homes and businesses safe during natural disasters and other emergencies. On the site, you’ll find preparedness tips for seniors, including those with access and functional needs. “We urge our older customers and those who love them to take advantage of the available resources to make an emergency plan and build an emergency supply kit,” said Angie Gibson, Vice President of Emergency Preparedness and Response at PG&E
September was National Preparedness Month, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has called out preparing older adults and their caregivers before a disaster or emergency strikes as a key action to take. “We know older adults can face greater risks when it comes to the multitude of extreme weather events and emergencies we now face, especially if they are living alone, are low-income, have a disability, or live in rural areas,” said Administrator Deanne Criswell.
Keys to Senior Emergency Planning
Here are some steps seniors and their caregivers can take to be prepared:
- Plan Escape Routes from your home, keeping your accessibility challenges top of mind.
- Implement a buddy system or phone tree with family, neighbors and friends to check in on you and other seniors during emergencies or other natural disasters.
- If you rely on electricity for a medical device, pre-charge your device, consider backup power options, and keep ice packs and a cooler ready for any medications that require refrigeration.
- Practice opening your garage door manually in case you lose power.
- Pack your emergency supply kit and remember to re-stock every six to 12 months. Don’t forget about your medications.
- Practice with every member of your family and caregivers.
PG&E and its partners have several programs in place to help older adults:
- The Medical Baseline Program is an assistance program for residential customers who depend on power for certain medical needs. Learn more in a short video at www.pge.com/en_US/residential/save-energy-money/help-paying-your-bill/longer-term-assistance/medical-condition-related/medical-baseline-allowance/medical-baseline-allowance.page#MedicalBaselineVideo. Customers interested in the program will find eligibility and application details at www.pge.com/en_US/residential/save-energy-money/help-paying-your-bill/longer-term-assistance/medical-condition-related/medical-baseline-allowance/medical-baseline-allowance.page.
- PG&E partners with the California Foundation for Independent Living Centers to support older adults and people with disabilities via the Disability Disaster Access & Resources program. This support is available before, during and after Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) and other wildfire safety power outages. Here’s a video on YouTube showing how the program has helped a PG&E customer maintain her hearing: www.youtube.com/watch?v=LI3iTVH_DI0&t=3s
Soar Into Excellence Gala
Submitted by Hayward Education Foundation
On Thursday, October 19, Hayward Education Foundation will hold their 40th “Soar into Excellence” gala to thank their sponsors and raise money for Hayward classrooms.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and entertainment kicks off at 6 p.m. with a performance from Paul Garrison’s Ruus Shakespeareans. This program takes 5th and 6th grade students through performing both a Shakespearean play and modern rock music to highlight the play’s themes on a band with guitar, keyboard, drums, and vocals. The gala will feature an abbreviated performance in the City Council chambers.
At 6:30 p.m. the evening will progress with food from Landeza’s Island Catering, drinks, musical entertainment by Moreau Catholic High School’s Jazz Trio, and a raffle.
Soar Into Excellence Gala
Thursday, Oct 19
5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Hayward City Hall
777 B St., Hayward
Tickets: $75
Taking the Fright out of Fundraising
Submitted by Tri-City Nonprofit Coalition
Fundraising can be tricky and sometimes a bit frightful (it can be daunting to ask for funds or other types of support!) but Tri-City Nonprofit Coalition (TCNPC) has a TREAT for you this month–its free Zoom meeting on Wednesday, October 11 will help take the scaries out of raising funds!
The Coalition is pleased to welcome speaker Lindsey Knight, a fundraising and community engagement professional. Her presentation will focus on gala events with an emphasis on various gala elements, including sponsorships, venues, ticket pricing, auctioneers, auctions, fund-a-need, wine pull, raffle prizes, and more.
Lindsey is an assistant to Alameda County Supervisor David Haubert (Dist. 1). Prior to this role she has worked over a decade in nonprofit fundraising, development, events, and community engagement.
Lindsey will also discuss other nonprofit event formats, such as friendraising and mission awareness events that attract donors, volunteers, and other forms of support. Whether you’re a nonprofit newbie or a seasoned professional with years of experience, you’ll come away from this meeting with new ideas and inspiration.
Register in advance for this free Zoom session. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Wednesday, Oct 11
6 p.m.
Online Via Zoom
Register in advance
https://tcnpc.org/tcnpc-events/
Top Hat Gala
Submitted by Washington Hospital
Join Washington Hospital Healthcare Foundation and dedicated supporters for Fremont’s largest and most elegant community celebration – The 37th Annual “Top Hat Gala,” Spanish Nights, taking place on Saturday, October 14. This year, we are returning to traditions of years’ past with Elegant Outdoor, Garden Reception, Reserved Dinner Seating, Exquisite Cuisine, Dinner Show, Live Auction, Dancing …and more.
The proceeds raised from the Top Hat Gala will benefit UCSF – Washington Cancer Center. Over the years Washington Hospital has strategically partnered with leading medical institutions, like UCSF Health, to create a comprehensive and integrated regional health care network for our patients. The Hospital and UCSF Health share a vision to offer a leading cancer program in the region, providing world-class care to oncology patients and their families, closer to home.
37th Annual Top Hat Gala
Saturday, Oct 14
VIP Garden Reception: 5:30 p.m.
General Garden Reception: 6:00 p.m.
Dinner, Entertainment, Auction, Dancing: 7:00 p.m. – 11:45 p.m.
Outdoor Garden and Grand Tent at Washington West
2500 Mowry Ave., Fremont
(510) 818-7350
www.whhs.com/giving-volunteering/foundation/events/upcoming-events/
Individual ticket: $325 / $250 for WH employees
Tree planting to honor Everett Veal
Submitted by Yolanda Galvan
The City of Hayward has bestowed an additional honor on longtime Officer Everett Veal, who passed away in late 2022. A tree planting, with placement of a memorial plaque, will be held on Friday, October 20, 2023 at the Hayward Police Department at 1 p.m.
TCV writer Hugo Vera wrote an article on Officer Veal’s life for the September 28, 2023 issue. It can be read online here: https://tricityvoice.com/02-28-23-articles/
Tree planting and plaque placement for Everett Veal
Friday, Oct 20
1 p.m.
Hayward Police Department
300 West Winton Ave., Hayward
Fremont Street Eats celebrates Halloween!
Submitted by City of Fremont
Wear your costume and get in the spooky spirit for a special Halloween-themed edition of Fremont Street Eats, with partner Fremont Chamber of Commerce. Sample food from Chick N’ Bros, iLava Hawaiian BBQ, Cousins Maine Lobster, Saigon Street Food, and more.
Tickets for trick-or-treating are limited, pre-sale only, and not sold the day of the event. Other day-of activities are available for an additional fee.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, please note these guidelines: Children must be accompanied by an adult (maximum of two adults per child). Sorry, no unregistered siblings. Strollers, wagons, and similar large items will not be allowed inside. The trick-or-treat portion of the event takes place indoors and is weather permitting.
Don’t miss out on this spooktacular event! For more information, call (510) 494-4300 or email Re*****@fr*****.gov.
Event page with registration link:
https://www.fremont.gov/government/departments/parks-recreation/events/trick-or-treat-event
Trick-or-Treat at Fremont Street Eats
Friday, Oct 20
5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Fremont Downtown Event Center
3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont
Trick or Treat tickets: $10
Veterans mobile medical outreach clinic
Submitted by Hector M. Villaseñor
There’s a quick turnaround for this month’s VA Palo Alto visits Hayward program, taking place on Thursday, October 19 at the Hayward Veterans Memorial Hall. The VA Palo Alto Mobile Medical Outreach Team will facilitate examinations, consultations, and referrals for veterans who are enrolled in the VA healthcare system already. They will also assist veterans and their spouses, caregivers, family members, and survivors with information about veteran enrollment for VA healthcare.
Veterans should bring military discharge papers (Form DD-214) and a list of current medications. Those who need to obtain proof-of-service documents prior to the event can find instructions at the Hayward Public Library’s online Veterans Resource Center at https://www.hayward-ca.gov/public-library/resources/veterans. This program is a collaboration between the VA Palo Alto Mobile Medical Outreach Team, the Veterans Connect @ the Library program, the Hayward Public Library, and the Hayward Veterans Memorial Hall.
Veterans mobile medical outreach clinic
Thursday, October 19
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Hayward Veterans Memorial Hall
22737 Main St., Hayward
(510) 881-7974
he***************@ha********.gov
Fremont Area Writers autumn write-in
Submitted by Tish Davidson
Break out of your rut and try something new at the Fremont Area Writers (FAW) “Social Write-In.” The third week in October has been declared California Writers Week by the California State Assembly. What better time to meet aspiring and established local writers and poets than by joining the free Fremont Area Writers Zoom Social Write-In where a selection of prompts centered around the theme of Autumn will help jump start your creativity. The event is for writers of all levels from absolute beginner to published pros. The write-in is not a writing critique session. Your writing will not be judged, just enjoyed by your fellow writers.
How the Write-In works:
At the Write-In, the computer will randomly assign four writers to each Zoom room. Writers will be given several word or photo prompts. Choose one prompt and write for 10 minutes. When the writing time ends, each of the four people in the room will read their response to the prompt. Following this, there is time to socialize in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. Writers will then be reassigned a different Zoom room with different writing challenge. After the second writing period, the stories will be shared with others in the room.
The Write-In is sponsored by Fremont Area Writers, a branch of the California Writers Club. In addition to the Write-In, FAW meets on Zoom the fourth Saturday of each month. At meetings, guest speakers discuss various aspects of writing and the publishing industry. The guest speaker for the October 14 meeting is Amy Davis, owner of Banter Books in Fremont. More information is available at https://cwc-fremontareawriters.org.
You do not need to live in Fremont to attend any of these events. To participate in the Write-In or attend the general meeting, please request the Zoom meeting link from Scott Davidson at sc**************@ya***.com.
Free Zoom Write-In
Saturday, Oct 14
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Free General Meeting
Saturday, Oct 28
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
For either event, request Zoom link from Scott Davidson
2024 Buick Encore GX—A Classy Little SUV
By Michael Coates
Buick Division of General Motors is a bit of a mystery to many. It’s not what it used to be, which was a premium (not luxury) car division anchored with big American sedans. It currently sells only SUVs in its home market. For years, Buick has sold more cars in China than in the U.S. (Where it has a more diverse lineup). It is now shifting to selling all EVs in China while the American market doesn’t even have a hybrid. The best-selling Buick model here since 2020 is this month’s tester—the Buick Encore GX.
The Encore is a small (what might be technically called a subcompact) SUV, built in Korea, running an American-built three-cylinder engine, but in spite of those unlikely descriptors, it carries on the upscale tradition of Buick well as a premium entry in this segment. It shares its platform with other GM models, two Chevys and another Buick. The designers at Buick have done a good job of creating a distinct look for the Encore, underscoring the premium theme with a mixture of brightwork, aggressively modern styling, and, on models with Sport Touring trim, stylish wheels and gloss black accents.
How Small
This is a four-passenger car, despite Buick’s claim that it will seat five. Okay, for a short trip downtown with relatively young passengers, maybe you could make squeeze three in the back seat. That’s not unusual for this class of vehicle—which includes the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30 and Volkswagen Taos and Honda HR-V.
The Encore serves as an entry-point to bring young buyers into a brand’s folds (although that spot may now be taken by the new, slightly smaller Envista). The Encore GX doesn’t feel small on the inside; its cabin, with a substantial greenhouse, lends good visibility and enhances to a spacious feel. To drive home the point, flip down the flat-folding rear seats and you’ll have more than 50 cubic feet of cargo space.
Fresh Look
For the 2024 model year, the Encore received a new look, adopting Buick’s newly styled tri-shield logo, arrow-like headlights and a large, chrome-surrounded grille to give the car more presence than you might expect from this size vehicle.
Inside is where the real work update went. This is a modern, stylish interior with a slick 19-inch display (diagonal measurement) that is one of the better designs in this class. The look is classy, which is augmented by the variety of technology available—wireless phone charging and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connections, along with a Bose premium speaker system. Our test car had a $34,075 price tag after a few key functional and cosmetic options were added. The starting price for the Sport Touring AWD model is $29,695, including destination charges. The base GX models start about $3,000 less, and ones with the new Avenir trim start at about $5,000 more.
At the bottom line, you could put together a good-looking, well-equipped Encore for around $30,000, complete with a full complement of the latest safety technology and enough power equipment to keep you comfortable.
The Little Engine that Could
Then there’s the little turbocharged 1.3-liter three-cylinder engine that motivates the Buick Encore. This is the upgraded engine, which I’d recommend. It cranks out 155 horsepower, which is amazing for its small size. However, what comes along with that is a bit of noise, understandable as the diminutive powerplant tries to move the 3,063-pound SUV.
The engine has won accolades for its efficient power output, but the observed fuel economy (which was very close to the EPA numbers of 26 mpg city, 28 highway) seems low given the relatively light vehicle, small engine and nine-speed transmission. My expectations were that this class of vehicle, even with AWD, should easily crack the 30-mpg barrier.
All told, the 2024 Buick Encore GX represents a solid entrant in this class worth a look for those looking to move up from the entry-level models of the competition.
HISTORY MATTERS
By John Grimaldi and David Bruce Smith
October 1 through 15
A Civil War Classic
Stephen Crane was born in 1871 – six years after the Civil War. He was the youngest of 14 children from an impoverished family, but he persevered, and matured into a newspaper correspondent, and an author. At 24, he attained international fame with the publication of The Red Badge of Courage, a tale about a teenager who enlists in the Union Army. One hundred twenty-eight years later, it is still widely read.
Crane was not in good health. According to History.com, he “contracted tuberculosis in his late 20s. Cora Howard Taylor nursed him while he wrote furiously in an attempt to pay off his debts. He exhausted himself and exacerbated his condition. He died in June 1900, at the age of 28.”
The Grateful American Book Prize suggests The Red Badge of Courage.
Perfect Pitch
On October 8, 1956, Don Larsen made history. He pitched a “perfect” game – the fifth – against the Dodger’s, a feat that has occurred only 24 times in 150 years of baseball history. He is the only person to achieve the distinction in the midst of a World Series.
According to History.com, “Larsen did not pitch well in Game 2 of the 1956 Series. In the second inning at Ebbets Field, the Dodgers knocked Larsen from the game in their 13-8 win. Larsen didn’t know he would start Game 5 three days later until he found a fresh baseball in one of his cleats in the locker room – that was Yankees manager Casey Stengel’s way of telling a pitcher that it was his day to pitch.”
The Grateful American Book Prize recommends Perfect: Don Larsen’s Miraculous World Series Game and the Men Who Made It Happen by Lew Paper.
Remembering Chuck Yaeger
On October 14, 1947, U.S. Air Force Captain Chuck Yeager did what other pilots thought was impossible: he piloted his X-1 super-jet over Rogers Dry Lake in Southern California and broke the sound barrier – at more than 662 miles per hour.
Yeager participated in 64 missions over Europe during World War II that rubbed out 13 German planes; “…[he] was…shot down over France, but…escaped capture with the assistance of the French Underground,” according to History.com. “After the war, he was among several volunteers chosen to test-fly the experimental X-1 rocket plane, built by the Bell Aircraft Company to explore the possibility of supersonic flight.”
Yeager died Dec 7, 2020 – the 79th anniversary of Pearl Harbor – and of his entering World War II.
For more information, the Grateful American Book Prize endorses Yeager: An Autobiography.
This feature is courtesy of The Grateful American Book Prize, which is an annual award given to authors who have created outstanding works of historical fiction or nonfiction for seventh to ninth graders. Visit them at gratefulamericanbookprize.com.
Tasty Turnip
By Pat Kite
My library has given me turnip seeds. I have never grown a turnip (Scientific name brassica rapa rapa). I’m not sure if I have ever eaten a turnip unless it’s been camouflaged. Pliny the Elder (77 CE) insisted turnips were among the most important veggies of his time. Cattle and pigs liked any leftovers.
To grow a turnip, choose a sunny spot. Make little holes in the dirt spaced two inches apart. Drop two seeds into each hole. Within two weeks, sprouting will occur. When sprouts get to about four inches tall, thin to one plant every five inches. Soil should be kept moist. If you eat green things, check at two months for wide leaves. Eat these greens fairly soon. (Make sure some leaves remain so the roots continue to grow.)
Harvest the turnips by digging up the roots/bulbs. They should be about three inches wide, purple on top and white on the bottom half. You can refrigerate turnip roots for a month or so. Note: Some turnip varieties are specifically grown for their tangy greens, others for their edible roots. The smaller the bulb, the tastier it is.
Explorer Jacques Cartier brought turnips to the Americas in the 1500s. The first seeds were sown in 1540 in what is now Canada, and were carried by immigrants to Virginia. Native Americans liked turnips and spread their planting and use.
For readers who enjoy tales, this is from Tolstoy’s Russian Folklore. An old farmer once planted a turnip seed. It became a turnip and kept growing and growing and growing. The old farmer tried to pull it out. No luck. He asked his wife to help. Turnip didn’t budge. His granddaughter assisted. Then his dog. Then his cat. A wandering mouse finally joined the tugging crowd. That did the trick. Out came the humongous turnip. A later tale said the farmer’s family made turnip soup. Another tale said the farmer put the huge turnip in a wheelbarrow and gave it to the king as a gift. If you want to grow your own turnip, try a purple top Milan.
In Scotland, a turnip is called a “neep.” In Irish folklore, a man called Jack was sentenced to roam the earth forever as he made repeated bargains with the devil. Jack walked at night with a burning coal inside a carved-out turnip to light his way, earning the name “Jack O’ Lantern.” In America, we went over to pumpkins.
Top turnip growing areas are: China, Uzbekistan, United States, Russia. If you succeed in growing turnips, my suggestion is cook them like potatoes.
Tough to Tender: Making something delicious from lesser-known cuts
By John Schinkel
There are so many more parts to meat than are usually sold at butcher shops and grocery stores. In the United States, we tend to gravitate more towards the tender, bountiful cuts that don’t require special cooking methods. But take a trip to an ethnic grocer and you’ll see far more cuts, some that you may not even have known are sold!
Many cultures utilize the entire animal, so as to not waste anything. Plenty of uncommon cuts have a great deal of delicious meat that often go overlooked. In beef, this includes the shank, neck, chuck eye, and rump cap. In pork, this can include the jowls, shoulder, and knuckle. Some of these may sound a little questionable, but with the proper cooking technique, I promise you these all can be made delicious.
Many of the cuts I’ve mentioned get a bad rap due to how tough they are. In other words, they contain a high amount of connective tissue. This shouldn’t scare you away, as connective tissue can so easily be broken down through slow-and-low cooking methods like braising, producing an amazingly tender dish. You would never want to grill something like a shank, brisket, or neck, but a braise or even a long smoke would turn it into something fantastic!
Another thing to know about these cuts: They’re cheap! Due to the lower popularity, these are usually set aside for stock and other alternative uses. However, if you do find some, you’ll be pleased to see the low price tag. Beef neck, for example, is often sold for less than $5 per pound. Don’t hesitate to ask your butcher if any other cuts are available, as sometimes they don’t make it to the display case.
A dish I have come to love using these cuts is Braised Lamb Necks. Lamb necks can be found at many middle eastern grocers, and occasionally western chains too. Lamb necks have a large bone in the center surrounded by meat that braises beautifully. Like many lamb recipes, this pairs beautifully with warming spices, and even a little mint. Enjoy!
Red Wine-Braised Lamb Neck (Courtesy of TastingTable.com)
Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 pounds lamb neck, cut into 2-inch pieces (22 pieces)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 celery stalks, roughly chopped
2 carrots, roughly chopped
1 yellow onion, roughly chopped
2 garlic cloves
½ cup tomato paste
4 cups chicken stock
1 (750-milliliter) bottle red wine
5 thyme sprigs
2 plum tomatoes, roughly chopped
6 small shallots, peeled
⅓ cup cherry tomatoes
⅓ cup pitted kalamata olives
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 F. In a 6-quart Dutch oven, heat the oil and butter over medium-high heat. Season lamb neck pieces liberally with salt and pepper. Sear, turning as needed, until golden brown, eight to 10 minutes, then transfer to a plate.
Add the celery, carrots and onion to the pot, and cook, stirring as needed, until golden, eight to 10 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic. Cook until fragrant, two minutes, then add the tomato paste and cook until caramelized, five minutes more.
Deglaze the pot with chicken stock and red wine. Bring to a simmer, then add seared lamb, thyme and plum tomatoes. Return to a simmer, then cover and place in the oven. Cook for 2 ½ hours, then remove the lid and stir in shallots. Continue cooking for 30 minutes more.
Remove the pot from the oven and transfer lamb and shallots to a bowl. Strain the cooking liquid, discarding vegetable solids, then return it to the pot, along with the cooked lamb and shallots, cherry tomatoes and olives. Season with salt and pepper, then serve.
John Schinkel is a lifelong Fremont resident who completed his culinary education at Laney College in Oakland. He specializes in, and has a passion for French, Italian, and modern American cuisines. Professionally, he works in nonprofit development. His spare time is spent as President of the Rotary Club of Mission San Jose, Fremont Elks Lodge 2121, and the Washington Hospital Healthcare Foundation. John resides in Niles with his fiancé, Marty. Questions, comments? Jo****************@gm***.com.
Hayward Area Recreation and Park District
October 2, 2023
6:30 p.m.
Consent Calendar
- Purchase order approval for temporary staff augmentation and technology initiative
- Adoption of MOU with SEIU, Local 1021, Hourly Unit
- Adoption of a resolution approving the 2023-2025 compensation plan for the Ranger Employee Group
- Approval of park ranger lead full time position
- Adoption of new salary schedule for regular classifications, effective October 2, 2023
President Rick Hatcher Aye
Louis Andrade Aye
Paul Hodges Aye
Sara Lamnin Aye
Peter Rosen Aye
Hayward economic recovery programs
Submitted by Chuck Finnie, City of Hayward
Hayward earned two prestigious international awards for outstanding post-pandemic economic recovery initiatives from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
The IEDC is a non-profit, non-partisan organization with a membership of over 4,500 individuals representing public and private organizations across the United States and other countries. IEDC’s independent panel of judges evaluated over 580 award entries.
The City of Hayward was acknowledged and received a Silver Award in the Resiliency, Recovery & Mitigation category, and a Bronze Award in Economic Equity & Inclusion category at the IEDC 2023 Annual Conference last month.
“The City of Hayward has raised the bar for excellence in economic development with its Together for Hayward Point of Sale Program and Together for Hayward Restaurant Relaunch and Restore & Re-Open Program. These awards are a testament to City of Hayward’s dedication to its residents and serves as a great example of how economic development can help transform a community for the better,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO.
Together for Hayward Point of Sale Program earned a Bronze Award. This program provided small businesses with a grant of up to $800 towards the purchase and setup of a new digital point-of-sale system. Through this program, 44 businesses were able to purchase new systems that can now accept credit cards, including the Together for Hayward eGift cards. Of those businesses, 41 were minority-owned and/or women-owned. This unique program allowed small independent businesses to bridge the digital divide and meet customer expectations for post-COVID contactless payments and online ordering options via third-party delivery services.
Together for Hayward Restaurant Relaunch and Restore & Re-Open Program earned a Silver Award. This program assisted with improvements to facades to update the look and feel of the business. The initiative revitalized 34 small businesses by updating facades and signage, creating inviting outdoor dining spaces, and refreshing interiors. Focused on post- COVID safety, the program helped businesses communicate a commitment to patrons that dining in is now safe.
To learn more about Hayward’s economic development, visit the Economic Development Division page on the City of Hayward website.
Park District’s Commitment to 30×30 Conservation Initiative Recognized
Submitted by Dave Mason
Land conservation has been part of the East Bay Regional Park District’s mission since its founding in 1934. Signed by the governor in October 2020, the Nature Based Solutions Executive Order, also known as the 30×30 initiative, aims to conserve 30 percent of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030.
The Park District has historically embraced and practiced elements of the 30×30 conservation initiative by stewarding natural resources on public lands, including the rich biodiversity, ecological systems, and iconic landscapes that define East Bay’s nature. The state-supported 30×30 initiative elevates the urgency and priority of these actions, in turn increasing the focus on the East Bay Regional Park District’s legacy of conservation and its critical role in activating nature-based solutions for climate resiliency.
“The Park District has spent the last 89 years preserving and protecting land and habitat,” says General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “We are now prioritizing projects that set aside more areas within our parklands and shorelines to protect biodiversity under threat from habitat loss and climate change.”
To meet these goals, the Park District has been a strong advocate for the state’s $1.3 billion allocation in grant opportunities for local projects, fostering external partnerships for regional solutions, and creating pathways for all Park District staff to accelerate climate-smart conservation and integrate the principles of 30×30 initiative in their everyday work. The Park District has been awarded $48.9 million in funding for projects that align with 30×30 conservation and resilience goals, including the acquisition of the Finley Road and Point Molate properties, design and construction of the Thurgood Marshall Regional Park, planning for restoration and public access at Big Break and North Basin Strip, and wildfire risk mapping.
In recognition of the Park District’s continued contributions toward meeting the initiative’s goals, California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot has reappointed Park District Deputy General Manager Dr. Ana M. Alvarez to serve a second term on California’s 30×30 Partnership Coordinating Committee to support the implementation of 30×30 by engaging and empowering partners across the state working toward its objectives. Dr. Alvarez represents the California Biodiversity Network (CBN) on the committee, leading efforts to advance biodiversity protection, stewardship, environmental education, and scientific inquiry while centering equity. CBN meaningfully engages environmental stewards, governmental and tribal representatives, scientists, and educators working at local, regional, and statewide scale to protect California’s globally renowned and highly threatened natural heritage.
Dr. Alvarez states, “As the 12th largest conservation land management agency in California and the largest regional park system in the nation, the Park District serves as a demonstration model for large-scale conservation in an urban setting, by expanding public lands strategically, protecting and restoring biodiversity, adapting to the whiplashes of extreme weather events from a rapidly changing climate, and providing balanced and managed recreational access, while taking down the barriers to equitable access to public lands for marginalized communities.”
New changes implemented for virtual public comment at city council meetings
Submitted by City of Fremont
In recent weeks, several of our neighboring city councils and regional elected decision-making bodies have been subjected to disruptive, racist verbal attacks by anonymous callers during virtual public comments. These incidents, also commonly referred to as ‘Zoom Bombings,’ appear to be a coordinated effort, possibly from people outside the Bay Area. As a result, the City of Fremont will be implementing preventative measures by removing the option for virtual public comment during City Council meetings. This measure will be effective at the October 10, 2023 City Council meeting. Public comments will still be accepted in person and by email.
The City of Fremont has limited ability to prevent participants from creating disturbing, disruptive intrusions while allowing public comment via phone and Zoom. We understand that these types of virtual meeting participation have allowed for greater access and we will still broadcast City Council meetings via Zoom for convenient viewing. However, the City of Fremont will not tolerate hate speech and disruptive virtual behavior and, as a result, we are taking immediate steps to prevent this from occurring during future Fremont City Council meetings by eliminating virtual public comments.
Regularly scheduled Council Meetings will continue to be broadcast on Zoom (virtual comments disabled), on Fremont.gov, and our cable television channel 27. Members of the public may still watch meetings remotely and are welcome to submit public comments in advance of council meetings via email. All email comments received by 4 p.m. on the day of a council meeting, will be distributed to Councilmembers and published in the City’s Agenda Center on www.fremont.gov, in advance of the meeting.
Electronic comments on agenda items for the City Council meeting may only be submitted by email. Comments via text and social media (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) will not be accepted. For more information go to www.fremont.gov/Home/Components/News/News/646/
San Leandro City Council
October 2, 2023
6:30 p.m.
Consent Calendar
- Amend the San Leandro Management Organization (SLMO) Salary Schedule
- Authorize changes to the adopted budget staffing allocation
- Award a construction contract to Eaton Drilling Company, LLC in the amount of $312,930 for the Washington Manor Park Irrigation Well
- Establish a capital reserve of $126,923 for the exclusive use of the East Bay Dischargers Authority for Emergency Repairs
Mayor Juan Gonzalez Aye
Victor Aguilar Aye
Bryan Azevedo Aye
Pete Ballew Aye
Xouhoa Bowen Aye
Celina Reynes Aye
Fred Simon Aye
Santa Clara Valley Water District
September 26, 2023
11:00 a.m.
Consent Calendar
- Adopt a resolution declaring October 2023 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month and recognizing the 33rd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
- Adopt a resolution declaring October 2023 as Polish American, German American, Italian American and Filipino American Heritage Month.
- Adopt a resolution declaring October 21-28, 2023 as California Flood Preparedness Week in Santa Clara County.
- Adopt recommended positions on federal legislation: S. 2654 (Padilla) / H.R. 5016 (Levin) – Water Efficiency, Conservation, and Sustainability Act; H.R. 5254 (Lieu) – Housing for All Act of 2023; H.R. 5104 (Edwards) – National Dam Safety Program Reauthorization Act of 2023; S. 2250 / H.R. 4902 (Caraveo) – Voluntary Groundwater Conservation Act of 2023; and other legislation that may require urgent consideration for a position by the board.
- Update on the atmospheric river emergency and determination that the emergency conditions continue to constitute an emergency.
- Accept the CEO Bulletin for the weeks of September 8-21, 2023.
Jim Beall Aye
Rebecca Eisenberg Aye
Tony Estremera Aye
Nai Hsueh Aye
Barbara Keegan Aye
Richard Santos Aye
John Varela Aye
BART Police Log
Submitted by BART PD
Saturday, September 30
- At 11:58 p.m. an officer identified and contacted Bryan Wallace, 41, from San Leandro on the platform of Fremont station. Wallace was arrested and booked into Alameda County Jail for disobeying a court order.
Sunday, October 1
- At 7:59 a.m. Brittany Russ, 36, from Hayward was identified by officers at San Leandro station and taken into custody. Russ was booked into Alameda County Jail for possession of a controlled substance.
Monday, October 2
- At 6:55 p.m. Deronne Taylor, 25, from Oakland was identified by officers and contacted for fare evading out of Hayward station. He was arrested for carrying a concealed firearm and possession of ammunition by a prohibited person. Taylor was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Tuesday, October 3
- At 7:26 a.m. Benjamin Lewis, 46, from San Francisco was identified by officers at Milpitas station and contacted for fare evasion. Lewis was arrested and booked into Santa Clara County Jail on five warrants.
Wednesday, October 4
- At 12:32 p.m. officers administered one dose of NARCAN to an unresponsive subject on board a train at Bay Fair station. The subject appeared to be suffering from an apparent drug overdose. The subject was transported to Washington Hospital for further medical evaluation.
- At 11:44 p.m. Johnelle Corbin, 34, from San Francisco was identified by officers and contacted in the free area of South Hayward station for battery. Corbin was arrested and booked into the Santa Rita jail without incident.
Fremont trains new firefighters
Submitted by Fremont Fire Department
Please join us in welcoming our newest Recruit Academy Class 23-1 to the Fremont Fire Department!
The new recruits received an orientation from Human Resources, an official welcome to the organization from Fire Chief Diaz, and received tours of Fire Administration and the Tactical Training Center. Recruits also learned formations and received study materials.
We wish them all the best as they prepare for the first day of their 25-week fire academy.
Fremont Police Log
Submitted by Fremont PD
Tuesday, September 26
- A school resource officer at a high school on Fremont Blvd. responded to a report of a student unconscious in the bathroom. The officer immediately administered naloxone, and the student regained consciousness. He was then transported to a hospital for treatment.
- Officers responded to a fight, reckless driving, and intentional ramming between two subjects in vehicles in a road rage incident on Logan Ct. and Logan Dr. Officers determined that one subject had been the primary aggressor and had intentionally hit a juvenile with her vehicle after the physical altercation. Officers arrested the subject, an adult, out of Fremont after she was medically cleared.
Wednesday, September 27
- Officers responded to a traffic injury on Mowry Ave. near Mission Blvd. A pedestrian was lying on the embankment, writhing in pain. A wheel and axle from a vehicle that was being towed had fallen off and struck the pedestrian as she was walking. The pedestrian was transported to a hospital for treatment.
Thursday, September 28
- Officers in the Auto Mall Pkwy and Grimmer Blvd. area heard multiple gunshots. Three vehicles then fled the area at a high speed. A search yielded four spent bullet casings in the area. Soon afterward, Hayward PD notified Fremont PD that a subject with a gunshot wound had entered a local hospital. The subject’s ankle monitor revealed that he was at the intersection of Auto Mall Pkwy and Grimmer Blvd. at the time of the shooting. This case remains under investigation.
- A victim was walking near Yosemite Way and Serra Ave. when a subject approached her and snatched the gold chain from her neck.
Sunday, October 1
- A walker reported finding two subjects who appeared to be deceased in a tent near Alameda Creek off Old Canyon Rd. Officers responded and found the two subjects deceased and in an advanced state of decomposition. Officers did not see an apparent cause of death and did not locate any weapons or narcotics in the surrounding area. The location of the incident was determined to be in Alameda County Sheriff’s Office jurisdiction, and ASCO deputies responded to take over the death investigation.
Monday, October 2
- Officers responded to a report of a possible dead body at a residence on Harris Pl., finding a subject not breathing and cold to the touch. An officer performed CPR for over 10 minutes until Fremont Fire Department medics arrived. Eventually, a pulse was regained, and the subject was transported to a hospital for treatment.
- Officers responded to a subject who had stolen the tip jar at a restaurant on Paseo Padre Pkwy. Employees chased and detained the subject, who then began to fight the employees. Two other subjects also began striking employees to free the first subject. Officers arrived as the first subject broke free, chased her on foot, and arrested her, a juvenile out of San Jose.
- A victim was sitting in his vehicle in a parking lot on Paseo Padre Pkwy when two subjects brandished a firearm and ordered him out of the vehicle. The subjects took the vehicle and fled the scene. The next day, officers located the stolen vehicle near Hilo St. and Sundale Dr. and initiated a pursuit. The vehicle stopped at a nearby elementary school, and two subjects fled on foot. Officers eventually detained the two juvenile subjects.
Tuesday, October 3
- At approximately 1:00 p.m. Fremont Police personnel responded to a report of an attempted armed carjacking in the area of Sundale Dr and Wall Ct. The suspects were unsuccessful in taking the victim’s vehicle and fled on foot into a nearby apartment complex. The victim was uninjured and was able to provide descriptions of both suspects. Responding officers searched the area and located both suspects in the nearby apartment complex. Both suspects were determined to be juveniles and were taken into custody without incident. A BB gun was found on one of the suspects. The scene was in close proximity to Brier Elementary School, and the school initiated a “shelter in place” protocol until the incident concluded. There are no outstanding suspects in this investigation.
- Shortly after 1:00 p.m. Fremont Police personnel were alerted via community cameras to a carjacking vehicle in the area of Grimmer Blvd. and Automall Pkwy. The vehicle was taken during an armed carjacking October 2 which occurred at the Gateway Plaza Shopping Center in Fremont. In that incident, two suspects, one of whom was armed with a handgun, took the victim’s vehicle and fled the area. Fremont Police Patrol personnel located the carjacked vehicle in the area of Sundale Dr. and Hilo St. and attempted to stop the vehicle. A brief vehicle pursuit ensued, during which a passenger in the carjacked vehicle exited and is still outstanding. The pursuit terminated in the parking lot of Millard Elementary School. Two suspects immediately fled on foot from the vehicle and were subsequently taken into custody. At the time of the arrest, Millard Elementary School was in session. The school initiated a “shelter in place” protocol, and members of Fremont Police Department’s School Resource Officer (SRO) unit were on hand to assist in capturing the suspects and assisting Fremont Unified School District personnel. Both suspects in this carjacking investigation were determined to be juveniles. The four juveniles in the above-listed cases were all transported to Alameda County Juvenile Detention Facility.
Hayward gains new Police Officers
Submitted by Hayward Police Department
Please take a moment to welcome the Hayward Police Department’s six newest academy graduates!
This six-month long endeavor, which took place at the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Academy, has given our newest officers the essential tools and foundation to begin their in-field training process. In-field training will last anywhere from four to six months, after which they will be ready to serve the City of Hayward as “solo” patrol officers.
This is no easy feat, but we are eager to wish all of them a big, “Congratulations” for their accomplishments thus far. Welcome to the Hayward PD team!
Milpitas Police Log
Submitted by Milpitas PD
Thursday, September 28
- Milpitas Police Detectives arrested a suspect who broke into two businesses in Milpitas. The suspect smashed windows, made entry, and stole property from both businesses.
Detectives identified a suspect who was wanted in connection with other commercial burglaries in San Jose and Sunnyvale. They located the suspect at a hotel in San Jose, and with the assistance of the San Jose Police Department were able to take the suspect into custody. He was on probation for weapons violations and auto theft. He was booked into Santa Clara County Main Jail for numerous felony charges, including burglary, narcotics violations, warrants, and a probation violation.
Monday, October 2
- Around 5:30 p.m. swing shift officers found a stolen car on Evans Road near Daniel Court. They saw a man sleeping in the driver’s seat. Officers woke the man and ordered him to get out of the car, but he refused. After several announcements in multiple languages, the man remained in the stolen car. Officers used a drone to get a view inside of the car. Based on the man’s refusal to comply and the possibility of the suspect being armed, officers brought an armored rescue vehicle to the scene. After the armored vehicle arrived, the man peacefully surrendered. He was later booked into jail for possession of a stolen vehicle, drugs, resisting arrest, and committing a crime while out on bail.
- Two women attempted to make off with $10,000 worth of merchandise from two stores at the Great Mall. The suspects, who are residents of San Jose, were booked into the Santa Clara County Jail for felony theft charges.
Tuesday, October 3
- Around 3:00 a.m. our automated license plate readers (ALPR) alerted midnight shift officers about a stolen truck near Piedmont Road. Officers found the truck on Aguilar Court and arrested a 33-year-old suspect from Oakland. The suspect was on county probation for possessing a stolen vehicle and was also found with drugs and a BB gun. A resident told officers a second suspect tried to steal gas from another vehicle but fled as officers arrived. The driver of the stolen truck was booked into jail for possessing a stolen vehicle and possession of drugs.
Thursday, October 5
- Yesterday, employees from the 24-Hour Fitness at 719 E. Calaveras Boulevard called MPD to report that someone stole an E-bike from the front of the business. The suspect used a bolt cutter to cut the lock on the bike and rode off. The suspect was located less than a mile away from the 24-hour Fitness. Officers found and arrested him. The suspect, a 35-year-old male from San Jose, was booked into Santa Clara County Main Jail for grand theft.
Newark Police Log
Submitted by Newark PD
Sunday, September 24
- At 8:27 p.m. Officer C. Torres and Officer Herrera responded to the 7200 block of Jarvis Avenue for a report of a subject in the roadway causing a traffic hazard. They located and arrested a 29-year-old male out of Newark for being drunk in public and booked him into Santa Rita Jail.
- At 10:28 p.m. automated license plate reader cameras alerted officers to a stolen vehicle. Officer Riddles located the vehicle in the area of Cedar Boulevard and arrested a 41-year-old male out of Hayward. He was booked at Santa Rita Jail.
Tuesday, September 26
- At 5:54 p.m. Officer Johnson investigated a late reported robbery in the 35000 block of Newark Boulevard. The robbery occurred the day prior, and the loss was tools.
- At 11:28 p.m. Officer Johnson investigated a report of a stolen vehicle from the area of 8200 Gateway Boulevard. Officer Johnson’s investigation revealed a possible location for the stolen vehicle. With the assistance of California Highway Patrol and San Bernadino Sheriff’s Office the vehicle was recovered in Victorville, California.
Wednesday, September 27
- At 7:21 a.m. Officer S. Torres investigated a stolen vehicle from the area of 5900 Mowry Avenue.
- At 12:04 p.m. Officer McCuin responded to the 6300 block of Normandy Drive and investigated a vandalism to the victim’s house and sidewalk area.
- At 3:22 p.m. Officer S. Torres responded to the 35000 block of Ruschin Avenue for a report of an auto burglary/attempted vehicle theft.
Thursday, September 28
- At 2:28 p.m. Officer Torres arrested a 39 year-old-male out of Newark in the area of 37000 Ash Street for a warrant and court order violation. He was booked at Santa Rita Jail.
Friday, September 29
- At 1:09 p.m. Officer Frentescu investigated a theft by false pretenses. The victim was fearful and wired a substantial amount of money to the unknown suspect. NPD Detectives were notified.
- At 2:17 p.m. Officer Losier investigated an auto burglary that occurred in the 5500 block of Thornton Avenue.
Saturday, September 30
- At 7:59 a.m. Officer Johnson recovered a stolen vehicle from a parking lot in the area of 6100 NewPark Mall Road.
- At 10:52 a.m. Officer Johnson contacted two subjects sleeping in a vehicle on Portsailwood Drive. Contacted was a 40-year-old male out of Newark and a 43-year-old female out of San Leandro. A probation search was conducted, which resulted in the male being arrested for possession of a controlled substance and the female was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. Both were issued citations on scene. The registered owner of the vehicle, a 40-year-old male out of Newark, was also contacted on scene and arrested for being in possession of stolen property, burglary tools and identity theft. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail and the vehicle was towed.
Sunday, October 1
- At 8:30 a.m. Officer Piquette arrested a 47-year-old male out of Newark for a theft warrant and booked him into Santa Rita Jail.
New Officers for San Leandro Police Department
Submitted by San Leandro PD
Help us in congratulating our two newest police officers – Officer Hector Gomez and Officer Felipe Rubalcava. They successfully completed the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Police Academy after six months of hard work and dedication, testing them both physically and mentally.
Their journey continues immediately as they begin the field training program for their new career. During field training, they will build foundation knowledge, skills and abilities to guide their decision making for years to come.
Congrats to you both and welcome to SLPD!
Union City Police Log
Submitted by Union City PD
Thursday, October 5
- At 7:46 a.m. UCPD officers responded to the area of 33000 Almaden Boulevard for a report of a person stabbed. Upon arrival, officers located three victims with injuries. One victim was pronounced deceased at the scene, and the other two victims were transported to a local hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.
The suspect in the incident was identified as Carlos Daniel Hernandez, 21, from Mountain View. He has been located and arrested for the incident. The Union City Police Department would like to thank the Mountain View Police Department for their assistance in the investigation.
The motive for the incident is still under investigation. There are no known threats to the area at this time.
If you have any information regarding this incident, please contact Detective Smith at 510-458-3310 or An*****@Un*******.org. Information may be left anonymously at 510-675-5207 or at ti**@un*******.org.
Chabot Cross Country Twilight Meet
Submitted by Chabot College Athletics
Chabot College placed fourth in the top 13 in a Twilight meet under the stadium lights on Thursday, October 5 that saw five dip under the coveted 15-minute barrier.
Sophomore Daniel Trampe (Dublin High School) led the way with a time of 14:56.9, for fifth place. Dylan Baptista placed seventh in 15:16.6. Kyle Galinis was tenth at 15:30.6, and Brian Kirrane earned thirteenth with a mark of 15:43.8.
Impressively, all four Gladiators achieved personal bests over the 5K distance, and Chabot had four of the top nine finishers among community college runners.
Kaiser Workers Strike
By Jack Alcorn
More than a hundred Kaiser Fremont workers were striking last week in front of the hospital campus on Paseo Padre Parkway. Workers were protesting staff shortages and unfair labor practices of the healthcare giant. Kaiser is one of the largest health care providers in the United States, serving nearly 13 million patients.
The highly visible assembly was part of a larger demonstration occurring at the same time at hundreds of Kaiser Permanente hospitals and medical facilities across the U.S. More than 75,000 Kaiser employees walked off the job Wednesday October 4. The three-day protest was the largest strike by healthcare workers that the nation has ever seen.
Strikers in Fremont were drumming, chanting and marching to persuade Kaiser Leadership to listen to frontline healthcare workers. Their motivation was patient safety and care impacted by unsafe staffing levels. Strikers assert that the short staffing crisis has caused delays making appointments and difficulty obtaining medications.
Diane works in the lab at Kaiser Fremont. “I’m striking because right about the same time they started having people come do their COVID tests with symptoms in the lab, they also decided to take away masks. And now they’re trying to take away sick days because they think we have too many.”
The walk-out was organized by The Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions, a non-profit organization representing more than 85,000 healthcare workers at Kaiser facilities in California, Colorado, Oregon, District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maryland, Virginia, and Washington. The coalition comprises several unions across healthcare jobs including registered nurses, receptionists, laboratory technicians, optometrists, MRI technologists, physical therapists, and social workers. The unions have demanded improved staffing and across-the-board raises over the next four years. A striking Kaiser Fremont receptionist said, “We just need to be paid more for what we do…because we’re pretty much the first people that people see.”
Kaiser and the Coalition have been negotiating an agreement since April. On September 22, the National Bargaining team submitted a 10-day notice to Kaiser Permanente executives that Coalition unions were calling for their first unfair labor practice strike, and some sympathy strikes, starting October 4. Negotiations ended unsuccessfully on September 30 with an expired contract.
Last-minute bargaining before the expiration made progress on key issues such as a redesigned performance sharing plan with updated payout opportunities. Tentative agreements were reached in four key areas: travel for continuing education, use of temporary workers such as traveling nurses, tracking of staffing vacancies, and dispute resolution.
The unions allege Kaiser has engaged in unfair labor practices by refusing to bargain in good faith to solve the staffing crisis. Kaiser stated October 1, “We’ll continue to bargain in good faith until we reach a fair and equitable agreement to ensure Kaiser Permanente… remains a best place to work and get care.”
Striking workers claim staffing shortfalls led to tough working conditions, low employee retention, and compromised patient care. Nicole is a medical assistant at Fremont Kaiser Pediatrics. “We’re here [striking] for being understaffed and higher pay for that reason and for our patients.”
About 11% of union positions were vacant in April 2023, according to Kaiser data obtained by the unions. Kaiser Permanente and the Coalition agreed in April to a goal of hiring 10,000 new people for Coalition-represented jobs by the end of 2023. Kaiser stated that 10,000 new employees were hired by the first week of October 2023. “Kaiser Permanente wants to attract and retain the best people in health care.”
The strike ended at 6 a.m. on Saturday October 7. All participating workers were expected to return to their jobs. A contract settlement or renewed contract was not accomplished.
Kaiser hospitals and emergency departments remained open throughout the strike. Some non-emergency and elective services were rescheduled. An estimated 60% of Kaiser employees, including doctors, were still working throughout the strike, according to the organization.
Kaiser Permanente said in an October 4 statement, “We look forward to reaching a new agreement that continues to provide our employees with market-leading wages and benefits, and ensures our high-quality care is affordable and available to meet our members’ needs.”
The next bargaining session has been scheduled to begin on October 12
Moreau Catholic Football Victorious on Homecoming Night
By Andrew Joseph
The Moreau Catholic Mariners football team beat the Castro Valley Trojans 49-13 in their league opener homecoming night Friday, October 6. Advancing to 3-3, Moreau is finally .500 and sitting at first place in the Western Alameda County Conference (WACC) Foothill League. With three important role-playing transfer students on both sides of the ball, Moreau saw the impact in their involvement after sitting out the league required five games as transfers. “Our coach kept telling us to make a statement tonight and if you look at the scoreboard that’s exactly what we did,” said Mariners quarterback Jeremiah Charles.
It was apparent that Moreau Catholic was prepared and focused on making that statement, scoring almost at will on offense and their defense pressuring Castro Valley’s quarterback into multiple sacks forcing them to run. The first half was dominated by the Mariners who had their way in all three phases of the game by mounting up 28 points before halftime. “The important focus for homecoming tonight was just winning the game,” said Moreau head coach Keith Minor. “It feels good to get to .500, but we just want to take it one game at a time.”
The extremely talented Mariner Jalen Arnold had a game-high four touchdowns including two rushing TDs, one 90-yard receiving TD, and one kickoff return for a TD. Arnold’s quickness and ability to be elusive off line makes him dangerous for defenses like Castro Valley to cover. “On that kick-off return for a touchdown I was happy there was no penalty and I was just really excited to score,” said Arnold.
The Trojans defense also didn’t seem to have an answer for Mariners running back Jayden Bryant who had two rushing touchdowns and one kick-off return for a touchdown. Castro Valley’s offense capitalized on an interception by the junior defensive back Adrian Guzman deep in Mariner territory in the second quarter. Trojan running back Conner Cooper ran in for a score with five minutes remaining in the first half. After the Trojans missed the following extra point, it was a commanding 28-6 Moreau lead at intermission. “The Trojans were running a cover two-man defense so they took away a lot of the deep threats because their safety was dropping back right away, but we were able to turn our short routes into big plays,” said Charles.
The Mariners were stopped on a fourth and goal attempt on the Castro Valley five yard-line, but on the subsequent possession Arnold ran for a 40-yard touchdown to give them a 35-6 advantage with 6:13 remaining in the third quarter. The Trojans decided to rely on their running game which worked to set up Michael Walker rushing touchdown making the score 35-13. Bryant then immediately returned the ensuing kick-off the length of the field for a touchdown giving Moreau a 42-13 lead heading into the final quarter.
In the fourth quarter the Trojans were able to reach the Moreau 14 yard-line, but failed on a fourth and long situation turning the ball over on downs. Bryant scored the last points of the game running 35-yards for a touchdown in front of a fully packed roaring home stand. “It feels good to win and now we’re 3-3 at first place in league,” said Arnold. “The goal this season for us is to go all the way to the championship and win league.”
It was a special game for Moreau Catholic who is reaching their peak at the right time of the year with all remaining regular season games being WACC league games. Castro Valley also has a chance of finishing strong at a hopeful 2-3 overall record, but they start 0-1 in league by losing their WACC league opener to Moreau.
Moreau Catholic plays Bishop O’Dowd in a league game at home on Friday, October 13. Castro Valley’s next game is a league matchup at James Logan of Union City on Friday, October 13.
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Bridging The Gap: Imagine A Day Without Water
I am completing a year-long local governance internship with the Alameda County Water District, under the sponsorship of Board President Paul Sethy, with a community project that I hope will inspire many of you with a call to action.
October 19, 2023, is the annual awareness day for “Imagine A Day Without Water.”
Around the world, millions of individuals, particularly in impoverished regions, grapple with the daily challenge of obtaining water, whether safe or not. Nearly a billion people lack primary access to clean water sources. This crisis has far-reaching consequences on public health, education, and overall quality of life.
Among those affected most profoundly are young girls and women. Girls are traditionally tasked with water collection in many parts of the world. This relentless chore often involves long and perilous journeys, leaving them susceptible to various dangers, including exposure to extreme weather conditions. Most importantly, it leaves young girls and women out of school.
The founders of Water.org, Gary White and actor Matt Damon, published a book last year, “The Worth of Water: Our Story of Chasing Solutions to the World’s Greatest Challenge.” They explore in-depth the issues surrounding this subject, especially the cost to human capital among young girls who lose out on educational opportunities and future productive lives.
One of my favorite lyrics is from a recent song, “Through Your Eyes,” by country artist Morgan Wade: “Oh, the innocence of a child…I wish I could see the world through your eyes.” I wish we all could on this pressing issue.
My community project aims to promote “Imagine A Day Without Water” and link this to viable solutions offered by Water.org, an international non-profit organization with a confidence charity score of 98%, assuring monies are spent expressly for the purposes stated on their website.
I encourage you to donate at: water.org/donate/. If you do, please mark your contribution in “honor” of Redefine Z, an international youth-led activism organization (501c3 non-profit, www.redefine-z.com), so our group gets credit for generating revenue support from our local communities. (Under recipient email, for us to get credit, enter: Re**********@gm***.com.)
Let’s all stand together and bridge the gap toward a world where clean water is accessible, and education can flourish among young girls and women. Thanks!
Phi Chanda
Senior, Irvington High School
Fremont
Honor Roll
Stanislaus State University
Spring 2023 Dean’s List
- Cleo Cabanez of Hayward
- Aunika Hornung of Union City
- Maraam Javed of Hayward
- Andrew Richard Lapid of Hayward
- Andrea Luengas of Hayward
- Sarah Munoz of Hayward
- Helen Ngo of Fremont
- Kayla Ann Ridao of Hayward
- Bella Rivera of Fremont
Union City honors first Hispanic police officer
Submitted by Union City PD
UCPD would like to recognize and honor Officer Joe Leon, who not only was Badge #1, but in 1966, was the first Hispanic police officer for Union City.
During his distinguished career, Joe trained many of the newer officers before there was an official Field Training Program and practiced the community-oriented policing philosophy before there was a formal COPPS program. Joe knew everyone who lived in the Decoto district and their relatives, and was an invaluable resource in relations with the community.
In addition to patrol, Joe held assignments in the Traffic Unit, Investigations, and Warrant Service. He was also one of the earliest advisors for the department’s Police Explorer Program and was very influential in Union City’s youth who showed an interest in law enforcement. Joe mentored recently retired Lt. Steve Mendez, current Property and Evidence Specialist Sonia Vera and countless others during his tenure at UCPD.
Joe was the first officer to retire from UCPD and over 400 people from all across the justice system were in attendance for his retirement celebration.
UCPD is proud to honor Officer Joe Leon for the man that he was, the officer he became, and the legacy he left for future officers in our organization.
Pumpkin Patches
Pick of the Patch Pumpkins
Fremont
4020 Fremont Hub, Fremont
San Lorenzo
Hesperian Blvd at Paseo Grande
Mon – Thurs: 2 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Fri: 2 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Sun: 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Inflatable amusement zone, paint ball, pumpkin patch
Wristbands: $5-30
Joan’s Farm Pumpkin Patch
Saturday, Sept 30 – Sunday, Oct 29
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Pumpkin patch, corn maze, snack shack, and more!
4351 Mines Rd., Livermore
(925) 980-7772
https://joansfarm.com/
Pumpkin Patch and Public Swim
Saturday, Oct 21
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Enjoy a floating pumpkin patch, decorate your own unique pumpkin
Hayward Plunge
24176 Mission Blvd., Hayward
$6
Pumpkins in the Park
Saturday, Oct 28
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Cardoza Park
Kennedy Dr. & Park Victoria Dr., Milpitas
Register at: www.milpitas.gov/448/Activity-Guide-Registration
$15 per child
Boo Calendar
Unhinged: Housewarming
Friday, Sept 22 – Tuesday, Oct 31
Friday – Sunday; select Thursdays
Start times: 7:15 p.m., 10:15 p.m.
Garden party, haunted house, and Halloween museum
Winchester Mystery House
525 S Winchester Blvd., San Jose
(408) 247-2000
Tickets: $64.99
Fear Overload Scream Park
Saturday, Sept 23 – Sunday, Nov 5
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
(times vary; check by night)
Two terrifying attractions: House of Phobia, Happy Days Asylum
2086 NewPark Mall, Newark
https://fearoverload.com/
Tickets: $19.99 – $32.99
Pirates of Emerson Haunted House
Friday, Sept 29 – Tuesday, Oct 31
Fridays – Sundays; Thursdays, Oct 19 & 26; and Tuesday, Oct 31
7:05 p.m. – 10 p.m. (11 p.m. or midnight on select nights)
Choose your attraction: Demented Dolls, Pirates of Emerson, Halloween Hell, Seesawz Circus
Alameda County Fairgrounds
Corner of Bernal & Valley Avenues
Tickets: $40 – $80; $13 landlubber pass
Boo at the Zoo
Friday, Oct 1 – Sunday, Oct 29
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
500-bale hay maze, scavenger hunt—come in costume!
Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland
(510) 632-9525
Tickets become available at 9 a.m., 28 days prior
Zoo tickets: $24 adults, $20 kids / seniors, free under age 2
Parking: $10 in advance / $15 at the gate
Halloween dress up single day camp
Friday, Oct 13
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Kids dress up in costumes, make accessories, and do crafts (bring your own snack)
Imaginook Studio
39675 Cedar Blvd., Ste. 135, Newark
www.imaginook.us/kids-events
Registration: $90
Fremont Ghost House: Voodoo on the Bayou
Friday, Oct 13 – Tuesday, Oct 30
Mon – Thurs: 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Fri: 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Sat: 3 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Sun: 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Haunted house, carnival games, and snacks
Kids Costume Parade
Saturday, Oct 21
1 p.m.
Lights On Tour
Saturday, Oct 21
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Behind-the-scenes look at the sets with no scares
Chadbourne Carriage House
39169 Fremont Blvd., Fremont
(510) 796-0595
https://candlelighters.com/
Ghost House Admission: $5
Game tickets: $1 (6 for $5)
Halloween Night Market
Thursday, Oct 19
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Art vendors and maze photo booth
Billy Roy’s Burger Co.
3909 Thornton Ave., Fremont
billyroysburgerco.com
Trick-or-Treat at Fremont Street Eats
Friday, Oct 20
5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Wear your costume and trick-or-treat!
Fremont Downtown Event Center
3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont
(510) 494-4300
Ardenwood Haunted Train Rides
Friday, Oct 20 – Sunday, Oct 22
Friday, Oct 27 – Sunday, Oct 29
Fri / Sat: 7:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Sun: 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
A spooky, not scary train ride with pumpkin art and encounter with a witch
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
Tickets: $15
Floating Pumpkin Patch
Friday, Oct 20
5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Silliman Family Aquatic Center
6800 Mowry Ave., Newark
newarkca.activityreg.com
$10 Newark Residents / $12 Non-residents
Beyond the Veil
Friday, Oct 20 – Saturday, Oct 28
6:15 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 8:45 p.m.
McConaghy House: Friday, Oct 20 – Saturday, Oct 21
18701 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
Meek Mansion: Friday, Oct 27 – Saturday, Oct 28
17365 Boston Rd., Hayward
(510) 581-0223
www.haywardareahistory.org/beyond-the-veil
Tickets: $30
Howl-o-Ween
Saturday, Oct 21
10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Dog Halloween costume contest
Newbark Dog Park
35501 Cedar Blvd., Newark
(see recreation guide)
Pumpkin Patch and Public Swim
Saturday, Oct 21
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Enjoy a floating pumpkin patch, decorate your own unique pumpkin
Hayward Plunge
24176 Mission Blvd., Hayward
$6
Witch’s Cupboard
Saturday, Oct 21
3 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Make your own cupboard to store spooky goodies
Imaginook Studio
39675 Cedar Blvd., Ste. 135, Newark
www.imaginook.us/kids-events
Registration: $65
Halloween Community Carnival
Sunday, Oct 22
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Dancing, games, costume contest and treats! For families with kids ages 3-12
Holly Community Center
31600 Alvarado Blvd., Union City
(510) 675-5488
https://www.unioncity.org/419/Community-Events
Tickets: $10
Zombie Family Fun Run
Friday, Oct 27
5 p.m. Check-In
5:30 p.m. Race Starts
Family-friendly 1.25-mile course filled with zombies – make it to the end with your flags to enter a raffle!
Lakeshore Park / Chelsea Dr., Newark
newarkca.activityreg.com
$30 per family
Spooky House
Saturday, Oct 28
Create a spooky Halloween house out of cardboard
Imaginook Studio
39675 Cedar Blvd., Ste. 135, Newark
www.imaginook.us/kids-events
Registration: $65
Unhaunted House
Saturday, Oct 28
3 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Carnival with Halloween crafts, stories, games and treats
San Felipe Community Center and Park
2058 D St., Hayward
Free; register at www.haywardrec.org
Running Dead 5K Fun Run
Sunday, Oct 29
9 a.m. – 12 noon
8 a.m. check in
Civic Center/City Hall
34009 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
www.unioncity.org/419/Community-Events
Registration $35 Adults; $25 Youth
Paranormal Investigation at Meek Mansion
Saturday, Nov 4
7 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Search for paranormal activity with an experienced investigator
Meek Mansion
17365 Boston Rd., Hayward
(510) 581-0223
www.haywardareahistory.org/explore-the-paranormal
Tickets: $75
Boutique Calendar
Dominican Sisters Holiday Boutique
Online
Monday, Oct 9 – Sunday, Oct 29
In person
Saturday, Nov 18
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Dominican Sisters’ Motherhouse
43326 Mission Circle, Fremont
Holiday Boutique by The Builders Fund
Friday, Nov 3
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Handmade gifts and holiday decor, homemade baked items
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
Mistletoe Madness
Saturday, Nov 25
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
70+ local art vendors
Marina Community Center
15301 Wicks Blvd., San Leandro
http://www.mistletoemadness.net/
Newark Artists Open Studios & Holiday Boutique
Friday, Dec 1 – Sunday, Dec 3
11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Paintings, ceramics, jewelry, glass, scarves
Studio Sites
6222 Thornton Ave., Ste. B1: Nancy Benton, Scoop Benton, Farshid Namei
39675 Cedar Blvd. #135: Tetiana Taganska, Olga Tymoshchuk, Susan Helmer
36541 Cherry St.: Simone Archer, Shelley Stratton Stewart
35911 Ruschin Dr.: Adriane Dedic, Emelie Rogers
www.myartiststudio.com
Sun Gallery Holiday Boutique
Friday – Sunday, Dec 1 – Dec 9
11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sun Gallery
1015 E. St., Hayward
(510) 581-4050
Holiday Boutique and Craft Fair
Saturday, Dec 2
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Over 80 artisan vendors
American High School
36300 Fremont Blvd., Fremont
https://ahsboutique.weebly.com/
Continuing Events:
Tuesdays
East Bay Games Meet
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
German/Euro style board games and card games.
Swiss Park
5911 Mowry Ave., Newark
(510) 936-2523
meetup.com/east-bay-games
Tuesdays
A Matter of Balance R
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels of older adults
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
Registration: (510) 742-7540
issuu.com/hsdept
mt*****@fr*****.gov
Tuesdays
Poker Tournaments
6:00 pm
Weekly tournaments for beginners or seasoned players.
The Clubhouse Bistro & Bar
4020 Technology Pl., Fremont
(510) 651-2500
bit.ly/3GllRwI
Third Tuesdays
Read to a Dog
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Read your favorite book to a trained therapy dog.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
rb.gy/m7ded
First and Third Tuesdays
Mobile Food Distribution with Tri-City Volunteers
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Bring your own bag.
Fremont Adult and Continuing Education
4700 Calaveras Ave., Fremont
(510) 793-6465
tri-cityvolunteers.org/food
Wednesdays
Ping Pong
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Activities for people with Parkinson
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
cutt.ly/zwdxcR1t
Wednesdays
Zumba Gold $
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Workout while dancing
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
Wednesdays
Tropics Bingo
7:00 pm
Flash games
Tropics Mobile Home Park
33000 Almaden Blvd., Union City
(510) 471-8550
the-tropics.net/activites
Thursdays & Saturdays
Story Time
10:30 am – 11:00 am
Picture book story time
Banter Bookshop
3768 Capitol Ave. Ste. F., Fremont
(510) 565-1004
bit.ly/3VFpbcz
Thursday -Sunday
Animal Feeding
3:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Feed livestock and learn about their favorite food
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757
Admission fee applies.
Fridays and Saturdays
Telescope Viewings
7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Experience the awe and wonder of the universe.
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
chabotspace.org/events
Saturdays
Pacific Bus Museum $
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Open house
Pacific Bus Museum
37974 Shinn St., Fremont
pacbus.org
in**@pa****.org
First and Third Saturdays
Laugh Track City $
8:00 pm
Series of improvised games and scenes.
Made Up Theatre
4000 Bay St. suite B., Fremont
(510) 573-3633
madeuptheatre.com
Second Saturdays
Alviso Adobe Tours $
1:00 pm
Docent-led tours and video presentation.
Alviso Adobe Park
2087 Alviso Adobe Ct., Milpitas
(408) 586-3210
bit.ly/3Wcmgau
Second Saturdays
Lend a hand. Help a community R
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Join in volunteering and tackle the projects that benefit from group effort. Volunteer Agreement must be completed.
LEAF CR Stone Garden
55 Mowry Ave., Fremont
bit.ly/3LDQa3H, bit.ly/42sbWy7
Sundays
Weekly meditation Session R
8:30 am – 9:30 am
Explore the effortless way to ultimate bliss.
India Community Center
525 Los Coches St., Milpitas
(408) 934-1130
samarpanmeditationusa.org
in**@in*****.org, in**@sa*******************.org
Second & Fourth Sundays
Larry “O” Teen Workshop
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Used bikes, bike parts for sale and bike repair.
Instagram @ibikeunioncity
Larry Orozco Teen Workshop
33623 Mission Blvd., Union City
(510) 675-5487
Second Saturdays
Open Garden Days
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Displays include taxidermy of native birds and mammals, native plant and pollinator garden, and access to an educator and or Ranger.
Central Park Nature Learning Center
40000 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
cutt.ly/xwdxx9G8
Mondays & Thursdays
Fruit Tree Gleaning
9:00 am – 10:30 am
Donate fresh fruits from your garden.
LEAF CR Stone Garden
55 Mowry Ave., Fremont
bit.ly/42e4FlR
in**@fr*********.org.
Mondays
Advanced Math + Science Tutoring
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Free high school and college-level tutoring.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Wednesdays, December 7 – November 22
Qi Gong Meditation & Exercise Classes
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Relieve Stress and anxiety by joining Falun Dafa classes.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
sccld.org/locations/milpitas
Fridays, January 20 – January 5
Knit & Crochet Circle
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Learn knitting and crocheting.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
sccld.org/locations/Milpitas
Second and Third weekends, March 11 – October 29
Public weekend train ride $
9:30 am – 5:00 pm
1.5 hour round trip on steam and/or diesel operated trains
Departures: 10:30 am & 1:00 pm
Niles Canyon Railway
6 Kikare Rd., Sunol
(510) 996-8420
Online booking: ncry.org
Tuesdays, March 21 – December 19
Chess Mix
12:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Drop in for some casual chess games.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
aclibrary.org/locations/SLZ
Second Saturdays, April 8 – December 9
The Ohlone College Flea Market
9:00 am – 3:00 pm
(510) 659-6285
Ohlone College
43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont
bit.ly/3lSRWFg
First Wednesday& Third Sunday, April 16 – November 19
Shinn House tour
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Visit Shinn House on a docent led tour
Shinn Historical Park and Arboretum
1251 Peralta Blvd., Fremont
(510) 790-5541
bit.ly/3TWli28
Mondays, April 17 – December 8
Job Lab
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
One-on-one help for jobseekers
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
aclibrary.org/locations/csv/
Fridays, May 5 – October 20
Fremont Street Eats $
5:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Food trucks and community fun
Fremont Downtown Event Center
3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont
(510) 742-7510
fremontstreeteats.com
Third Saturdays, May 20 – December 16
Yoga for beginners & beyond
10:30 am – 11:45 am
Join for free yoga class.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
bit.ly/44NFZSZ
Saturdays, May 27 – December 30
Divine Satsang Sabha
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Know techniques of living a virtuous, harmonious, & meaningful life
SMVS (Shri Swaminarayan Mandir)
36665 Cedar Blvd, Newark
(650) 585-5325
bit.ly/4380OGV
Second Tuesdays, June 13 – January 9
Monthly Covid and Flu Vaccine Clinic
3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Get free Covid Booster
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
Appointment: (510) 268-210
cutt.ly/Cwdxmlma
Tuesdays, July 18 – November 28
Baby Bouncers Lapsit
11:30 am – 12:00 pm
A baby and caregivers program including nursery rhymes, lap bounce, body rhymes, songs, & picture books.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
sccld.org/locations/Milpitas
Wednesdays, July 19 – November 29
ESL Conversation Club
3:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Improve your English skills and learn about other cultures.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
sccld.org/locations/Milpitas
Monday – Friday, September 4 – October 26
“Climate Change – RE-Imagined” Sun Gallery Members Exhibition
9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Hayward City Hall
777 B St., Hayward
(510) 583-4000
haywardartscouncil.org
Tuesdays, September 5 – December 19
Music and Storytime
11:00 am – 11:45 am
Story, music, and movement with children
Cherryland Community Center
278 Hampton Road, Hayward
(510) 626-8522
t.ly/M2lnv
sa********@ac*******.org
Saturdays, September 9 – December 30
Computer Crew: Teen Tech Help
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
One-on-one tutor on basic tech issues
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
t.ly/OFsQh
ca**********@ac*******.org
Monday – Friday, September 15 – October 27
Flux Exhibition
Upstairs Gallery: Mon- Fri: 10 am – 4 pm
Lower Main Gallery: Mon 5 pm – 9 pm, Tues & Thurs 11 am – 2 pm
Several local artists displaying their fluctuation of creativity.
Image Central Gallery
1099 E St., Hayward
(510) 881-6721
haywardrec.org
im**********@ha*******.org
Saturday, September 16 – November 30
Latinx American Heritage Month Art Showcase
11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Studio 11
34626 11th St., Union City
(510) 675-5445
rb.gy/gu46v
Sundays, September 17 – November 12
Epic Art Exhibit at Dove Gallery
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Featuring spectacular landscapes, historical landmarks and symbols of great devotion.
Dove Gallery
875 S Park Victoria Dr., Milpitas
(408) 464-5011
t.ly/8X3Wa, dovegallery.com
do**@pa**********.org
Every other Sundays, September 17 – November 26
Teen & Tweens Origami Workshop Series
3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Come shape and make!
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
t.ly/F_G92
Mondays, September 18 – November 6
Music for Minors II Volunteer Training R
In-person training on Mondays: 7:00 pm – 9:15 pm
United Church of Christ Hall
38255 Blacow Rd, Fremont
(510) 733-1189
musicforminors2.org
Mondays and Wednesdays, September 18 – November 06
Music for Minors II Volunteer Training R
In-person training on Mondays: 9:15 am – 11:45 am
or 7:00 pm – 9:15 pm
Online training on Wednesdays: 7:00 pm – 09:15 pm
Corpus Christi Parish
37968 Third St., Fremont
(510) 790-3207
musicforminors2.org
Tuesdays, September 19 – May 28
It’s Storytime
1:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Stories, finger plays, nursery rhymes, songs, and musical instruments for kids ages 18 month- 6 yrs.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
t.ly/oTq3Q
fr**************@ac*******.org
Thursdays, September 28- October 26
Preschool Storytime R
11:15 am – 12:00 pm
Read books, sing songs, dance to music, and have fun together. (Ages 3 – 5)
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
rb.gy/cwu2q
fr**************@ac*******.org
Tickets will be distributed 15 minutes prior the event.
Tuesdays, October 3 – November 28
Teen Tuesdays Tag R
4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Join the teen advisory group, meet other teens, play games, make art and poetry, and more.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
t.ly/ajUUT
eb*******@ac*******.org
Tuesdays, October 3 – December 5
Tuesday Chat
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Improve your spoken English by talking with native speakers about everyday topics.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
t.ly/Ral6M
fr*****@ac*******.org
Thursdays, October 5 – October 26
Play and Learn
5:30 pm – 6:15 pm
Songs, fingerplays and books for kids ages 1- 5.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
shorturl.at/ivzQ1
Wednesdays, October 11 – December 27
Manitas en Acción
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Combination of reading books out loud, hands-on crafts and learning about culture in Spanish.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
aclibrary.org/locations/NWK/
Mondays, October 16 – November 27
Lego Club for Grades K – 8
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
An hour of fun building with Legos
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
sccld.org/locations/milpitas/
uv*@sc**.org
Tuesdays, October 16 – November 6
Modern Brush Pen Calligraphy New! R$
10:30 am – 11:45 am
Learn to write beautifully and cover the basis of using, holding, and writing with brush pens.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
issuu.com/hsdept
nj*****@fr*****.gov
Upcoming Events:
Tuesday, October 10
Microsoft Window Class
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Learn to access windows based personal computer and software.
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
issuu.com/hsdept
mt*****@fr*****.gov
Tuesday, October 10
AWC Cinema “Women Talking” R
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
A true story of a women of an isolated religious colony.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
issuu.com/hsdept
Tuesday, October 10
Webinar on Local Housing Protections
06:30 pm – 08:30 pm
(510) 577‑6006
sanleandro.org/Slhousingprotections
ho*****@sa********.org
Tuesday, October 10
The Page Turners
7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Evening book discussion for adults.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Tuesday, October 10
Eviction Information Workshop R
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Workshop to inform tenants about the typical eviction process
Fremont Family Resource Center
39155 Liberty St., Fremont
Registration: (510) 574-2028
shorturl.at/cqFMR
Wednesday, October 11
Crafting Together
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Huichol Yarn Painting
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
aclibrary.org/locations/FRM/
fr**************@ac*******.org
Wednesday, October 11
Google Applications
1:00 pm – 03:00 pm
Learn to use applications google offers for free.
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7540
mt******@fr*****.gov
Wednesday, October 11
Hispanic Heritage Paint Night for Grades 3rd to 5th R
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Celebrate different aspects of Mexican heritage and culture through painting.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
Wednesday, October 11
Storytime
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Enjoy storytime for kids with free coffee for mom or dad.
Chick-fil-A Mowry Avenue
5245 Mowry Ave., Fremont
(510) 608-5771
t.ly/3hy3v
Wednesday, October 11
Teen Craft
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Friendship bracelets crafting workshop for kids ages 13 – 17.
Hayward Public Library (Downtown)
888 C St., Hayward
(510) 293-8685
hayward.librarycalendar.com
Thursday, October 12
V.I.P. in the Park R
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Volunteer in the Parks- Fairmont Terrace (Cleaning)
Berkshire and Manchester, San Lorenzo
haywardrec.org, tinyurl.com/HARDvip
Friday, October 13
Laser After hours: Fright Light Night $R
7:30 pm – 8:30 pm
9:30 pm – 10:30 pm
A Halloween themed laser show with a featured thematic cocktail of the night, beer, and wine.
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
chabotspace.org/events
Friday, October 13
Overdose prevention training R
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Training on recognizing the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose, as well as how to safely administer naloxone.
Kennedy Community Center
1333 Decoto Rd., Union City
(510) 675-5329
eastbayecho.com/event/
Friday, October 13
Moon Dough Rock Concert
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Concert in celebration of Filipino music and artistry.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
sccld.org/locations/milpitas/
dp*******@sc**.org
Saturday, October 14
Annular Solar Eclipse $R
7:30 am – 3:00 pm
Spot the annular solar eclipse from the Observation Deck or watch a live feed inside of the museum.
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
chabotspace.org/events
Saturday, October 14
Lewelling Campus school tree planting R
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Tree planting in October
Lewelling Campus
750 Fargo Ave., San Leandro
(510) 317-4774
tinyurl.com/SLTreeCare
Saturday, October 14
Free-E Waste Drop off Event
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Electronic waste drop-off
James Logan High School
1800 H St., Union City
(510) 471-2520
tri-ced.org
Saturday, October 14
Beguiling Bats
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Learn about bats and other species around, and how these creatures of the night thrive.
Coyote Hills Visitors Center
8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont
(510) 544-3220
ebparks.org/parks/coyote-hills#events
Parking fee applies.
Saturday, October 14
Visit McConaghy House
10:00 am – 02:00 pm
Visit this 1888 Victorian era farmhouse, with self-guided tours of the first and second floors.
McConaghy House
18701 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
(510) 581-0223
haywardareahistory.org/calendar
Saturday, October 14
Canine Capers
9:00 am – 11:00 am
Spend time outdoor with a friend, furry or otherwise and explore and learn about the natural world around.
Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3245
ebparks.org/parks/sunol#events
Parking fee applies
Saturday, October 14
Yoga at the Library R
10:30 am – 11:30 am
Wellness-focused class for all abilities
Hayward Public Library (Downtown)
888 C St., Hayward
(510) 293-8685
hayward.librarycalendar.com
Lo********@ha********.gov
Saturday, October 14
Uptown Funk, Tribute to Bruno Mars $R
7:30 pm
Experience the pulse-pounding concert of this international touring tribute band.
Castro Valley Center for the Arts
19501 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 889-8961
cvartsfoundation.org/shows/
Saturday, October 14
Solar Eclipse Viewing R
8:00 am – 10:00 am
View the cool spots of the sun with a special telescope. The eclipse is expected at 9:19 am.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
aclibrary.org/locations/NWK/
Saturday, October 14
Screening of “The Blackbird” (1926, MGM) $R
7:30 pm
Preceded by shorts: Bromo & Juliet (1926, Roach) and The Thieving Hand (1908, Vitagraph).
Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum
37417 Niles Blvd., Fremont
(510) 494-1411
nilesfilmmuseum.org
Saturday, October 14
Succulent Containers at Castro Valley Library
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Learn about caring for succulents, propagating succulents and other plants, then use cuttings to design own terrariums
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
aclibrary.org/location/castro-valley-events/
Saturday, October 14
Disposal Day R
7:00 am
Bring up to 5 cubic yards of household items. Hayward resident only.
Hayward Transfer Station
3455 Enterprise Ave., Hayward
(510) 606-1548
hayward-ca.gov/services/city-services
Registration is going on now
Saturday, October 14
20th Annual Banquet $R
6:00 pm
Celebrate 20 years of ICC journey with dance, food and more.
India Community Center
525 Los Coches St., Milpitas
(408) 934-1130
indiacc.org
in**@in*****.org
Saturday and Sunday, October 14 and October 15
Harvest Festival $
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Help pick the corn. Bring a bag and take some home
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757
ebparks.org/parks/ardenwood
Admission fee applies.
Saturday, October 14
Hispanic Heritage Month Craft
10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Celebrate the Hispanic Heritage Month with series of craft.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
aclibrary.org/locations/csv/
Saturday, October 14
Storytime with Sheila Hackbarth
10:00 am – 11:30 am
Enjoy this whimsical reading with music, breakfast bites, and beverages.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
aclibrary.org/locations/csv/
ca**********@ac*******.org
Sunday, October 15
Vintage Hat Show
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Get to know historical facts and anecdotes about hats from 1900 through 1970.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
aclibrary.org/locations/csv/
Sunday, October 15
Chalk Festival at the Block
12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Kids chalk zone, balloon, artists, face painters, and more.
Pacific Commons Shopping Center
43440 Boscell Rd., Fremont
(510) 770-9798
allevents.in/fremont/chalk-festival
Sunday, October 15
Dandiya Night $R
7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Live music, dandiya dance and more.
India Community Center
525 Los Coches St., Milpitas
(408) 934-1130
indiacc.org
Sunday, October 15
A.P. Giannini – Bank to the Future $R
4:00 pm
A documentary about the man behind the masterpieces like golden gate bridge and Bank of America.
Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum
37417 Niles Blvd., Fremont
(510) 494-1411
nilesfilmmuseum.org
Monday, October 16
Reading Buddies: Teen Volunteer Orientation R
Orientation for new teen volunteers for the Fall 2023 session of Reading Buddies.
Hayward Public Library (Downtown)
888 C St., Hayward
(510) 293-8685
t.ly/Hpow5
Monday, October 16
Tenants’ Right Workshop R
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Free legal consultation to protect yourself from losing your house
Hayward Public Library (Downtown)
888 C St., Hayward
Reservation: (510) 293-8685
hayward.librarycalendar.com
te***********@ce*********.org
Monday, October 16
Teen Life Skills
4:30 pm – 6:00 pm
Mental health workshop covering different types of therapy, relationships, and self-care.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
aclibrary.org/locations/NWK/
Tuesday, October 17
Ensamble Folclórico Colibrí
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Dance performance and book giveaway
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
aclibrary.org/location/castro-valley-events/
Tuesday, October 17
Halloween Costume Swap
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Drop off clean, gently used costumes to the Main Library children’s desk from 9/14-10/14 to receive a ticket to swap for a costume at the Oct. 17 event.
San Leandro Main Library
300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro
(510) 577-3970
t.ly/Xql2F
Tuesday, October 17
THE APOLOGY film screening and Filmmaker Q&A R
Documentary about dismantling the entire community of Russell City.
in 1960s
Historic BAL Theatre
14808 E 14th St., San Leandro
(510) 614-7700
t.ly/Tx1m5
Tuesday, October 17
Bingo Night
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Bingo night for all ages.
Chick-fil-A Auto Mall
5539 Auto Mall Parkway, Fremont
fremont.macaronikid.com/events