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Center receives AARP grant
From human services department newsletter

The Age Well Center at South Fremont has been named a recipient of a 2020 AARP Community Challenge grant, one of just eight grantees selected in California.

AARP’s Challenge Grant will specifically be used to provide “farm to table” fresh vegetables in its own backyard with construction of 10 huge planter boxes and a new garden shed. Members of the Age Well Center enjoy planting and growing fresh vegetables in this spacious outdoor environment. Produce from the garden will be used to support both the Center’s delicious and nutritious meal program, which is cooked on site, as well as provide fresh produce for senior gardeners who will manage the food project.

http://www.fremont.gov/3453/Age-Well-Center-at-South-Fremont

Alameda County Fire Department Log
Submitted by ACFD

Saturday, October 10
• At 6 p.m. firefighters responded to a report about a vegetation fire near the railroad tracks on Alvarado Street in San Leandro. They quickly knocked down the fire; there were no injuries.

Wednesday, October 14
• At 7:06 a.m. firefighters were dispatched to a working house fire on Norton Street in San Leandro. Crews kept the fire in check mainly in the kitchen area and prevented it from spreading into the attic of the vacant house. There were no injuries; the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Self publishing made easier: FAW hosts publishing consultant Andrew Benzie
Submitted by Knuti VanHoven

According to publisher/designer Andrew Benzie “With the availability of the Internet, print-on-demand technology and electronic book formats, there has never been a better time for authors to publish their work.”

He'll be explaining exactly how to do that on Saturday, October 24th at the Fremont Area Writers Zoom meeting.

Benzie, a Bay Area native with over 30 years of experience as a designer for both corporate art departments and his own publishing company – Andrew Benzie Books – helps authors design, publish, and market their books in both soft cover and e-book formats.

He’ll discuss the steps authors have to navigate when self publishing. Topics will include cover design and branding, interior layout, ISBN numbers, pricing and royalties, print on demand, and how to choose between KDP, Amazon, Smashwords and eBooks. Andrew will also provide tips for online marketing strategies including websites, blogs and other social media.

The October 24 meeting begins at 2 p.m. and is free to any writer, be they beginners or seasoned professionals. For your Zoom link, email scottfrombayside@yahoo.com by October 23. Fremont Area Writers is a branch of the California Writers Club.

For more information visit their website at cwc-fremontareawriters.org or www.andrewbenziebooks.com.

Self publishing made easier
Saturday, Oct 24
2 p.m.
Via Zoom
RSVP to scottfrombayside@yahoo.com by Oct 23

A.R.T., Inc. returns with Viral Exhibit #4
Submitted by A.R.T. Inc.
Photos courtesy of A.R.T., Inc.

We are living in a historic time. In a very short time, the COVID-19 pandemic and its social and economic components have changed our lives dramatically. The Rotary Club of Castro Valley wants to capture these events for history.

The Rotary Club of Castro Valley and A.R.T., Inc. (Artists Relaxing Together) are jointly sponsoring an online show of photographs, artworks, and poetry that document the coronavirus pandemic in the Castro Valley area. We hope to illustrate the medical, economic and social effects of the pandemic in our community.

View the full list of member submissions online at https://www.artinc.org/.

Being Authentic at Work
By Anne Chan, PhD, MFT

It may seem strange to talk about authenticity at work when the workplace might be the very last place on earth where you can feel truly authentic. Workplaces tend to have many unwritten rules for standards of behavior, including what is appropriate to talk about.

In some instances, the CEO and upper management set the tone for company values and standards. You might not adhere to these values but are nevertheless powerless to say anything about it. Perhaps your organization’s culture is cutthroat and uber competitive. In your heart, you despise the work culture and the way the management operates, but you feel pressured to join in company rallies and act like a go-getter, even though you secretly want to run as far away from the company as possible.

Even the clothing you wear can be dictated by the workplace. If your company goes for the buttoned up corporate look, you probably will not be wearing your red pants to work, even if it’s the most prized article of clothing in your wardrobe.

Perhaps you are heavily involved in the “Black Lives Matter” movement, and you spend all your weekends devoted to BLM work. How do you respond when your colleagues casually ask, “How was your weekend?”

Parents often feel hamstrung at work. You might feel that your children mean everything to you and that they are the #1 priority in your life. But you are afraid to talk about your children because your colleagues and boss might judge you as being less committed to work.

Authenticity is about being yourself, living out your true values, and not putting on a false front. Some things might be confused with authenticity, but for the purposes of this discussion, it is helpful to discern authenticity from other issues. For instance, you may have trouble speaking up at meetings and getting your voice heard – this may not be a problem with authenticity but may be due to shyness or a lack of assertiveness.

Being authentic is not about blurting out what is on your mind and saying anything regardless of the impact on someone else. Someone snarky might say, “I’m being authentic when I tell you that you look fat.” Do not be fooled by statements like these. This stance is not about authenticity; rather it is about being a jerk.

Authenticity is about being who you are and living your core values. Core values tend not to change over time and may be connected to your religious convictions, political affiliations, and cultural values. It takes up a lot of energy to pretend to be who we are not. You are likely to be a lot more fatigued when you come home. You might even resort to guzzling a few more drinks than you really should. You might have a shorter fuse with your kids and partner. All of this can lead to depression, anxiety, and increased stress.

Conversely, researchers have shown that when we are our true selves at work, our lives feel more meaningful and fulfilling. Those of us who are lucky enough to feel authenticity have lower levels of depression, stress, and anxiety. Work is also more engaging and feels more satisfying.

Take a self-inventory and ask yourself: “What is my true self?” It might be helpful for you to think about five adjectives that describe your true, best self. Now ask yourself how you can be more authentic at work. For example, if “kind” is one of your adjectives, consider how you can be kind at work. This will get you to figuring out how you can be more of your authentic self at work.

Remember that authenticity does not mean that you are 100 percent authentic, 100 percent of the time. You can choose certain venues for expressing some of your values (e.g. church, temple, or mosque) but not others. Of course, certain things are not appropriate to bring up at work, but this does not mean that you can’t bring some authentic pieces of yourself to work occasionally.

Anne Chan is a career counselor and licensed psychotherapist in Fremont. She specializes in helping people find happiness in their careers and lives. You can reach her at annechantcv@gmail.com
© Anne Chan, 2020

BART Police Log
Submitted by Les Mensinger and BART PD

Saturday, October 10
• At 8:39 p.m. a man identified by police as Ricard Malca, 34, of San Francisco was arrested at the Hayward station on suspicion of public intoxication. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

Sunday, October 11
• At 8:42 p.m. a man identified by police as Joel Cuadra-Gonzalez, 27, of Hayward was arrested at the Bay Fair station in San Leandro on suspicion of brandishing a weapon. He was booked at Santa Rita Jail.

Wednesday, October 14
• At 5:34 p.m. a man identified by police as Rolontei Simril, 30, of Oakland was arrested at the Union City station on four outstanding warrants totaling $20,000 and booked into Santa Rita Jail.

Thursday, October 15
• At 5:59 p.m. a man identified by police as Carlos Rodriguez, 22, of San Leandro was arrested at the Castro Valley station on suspicion of domestic battery. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

Northern California’s largest education event moves online
Submitted by Kimberly Hawkins

The “Bay Area Science Festival” is celebrating 10 years of exploring the wonder of science from October 21 to 25. Northern California’s largest education event features more than a hundred events and experiences, bringing together STEM role models, families, youth and adults alike. This year’s event will be virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. You can find more information here: https://www.bayareasciencefestival2020.org/.

Cal State East Bay and Save Mount Diablo-Galindo Creek Field Station are collaborating for “Catch that Critter!” sessions on Wednesday, October 21 at 3 p.m. and Friday, October 23 at 3 p.m. Wednesday’s opening event will focus on observing and understanding wildlife corridors and everyone's role in supporting the wildlife. Friday's event will feature a conversation with Lindsay Wildlife Experience Executive Director Carlos de la Rosa about the experiences at their wildlife hospital.

Bay Area Science Festival
Wednesday, Oct 21 – Sunday, Oct 25
Virtual Event (synchronous and asynchronous lectures)
Schedule available on website
https://www.bayareasciencefestival2020.org/.

Bernard Blueford Sr.
Resident of Fremont
September 30, 1932 – October 5, 2020

Bernard Blueford Sr. passed away on October 5, 2020 at the age of 88. Beloved husband of almost 50 years to Joyce Blueford and loving father to Barbara Martinez (Jose), Linda Baca (Donel), and Bernard Blueford Jr. from a previous marriage to Sammie Blueford. Born in Oak Ridge, Louisiana on Sept 30, 1932 to Luke and Jerlin Blueford. His early life was one of hardship and poverty. His mother would always tease him that if it had not rained the night before, he would have been born in a cottonfield.
He was brought up in the segregated south and the school for blacks was 5 miles away. Most of the time he had to help the family as a sharecropper tending the cottonfields at an early age. Bernard was one of 7 children that grew to adults and his father was told to leave the farm by the plantation owner. He got his first pair of shoes at 12, walking with potato sacks wrapped on his feet. He had not learned how to read or write, and always was in awe of a black man in the community, who could read a paper, and vowed to himself that one day he will be able to read.
Bernard arrived in California in 1951, and it was like coming to the promised land. He finally would go to school to learn how to read and write starting at age 21 while starting a new family. It took him another 4 years to finally learn how to read, and a few more years to get his high school diploma. His AA degree from Ohlone College in 1981 was a milestone that he thought he would never achieve. Throughout his early life he owned a grocery store and Papa’s Record store in Oakland, while working full time.
He worked for General Motors for 30 years, first in Oakland and then in the newly built plant in Fremont (1962). He worked in the paint department and became foreman. Bernard was known throughout GM as an employee who would come up with money saving ideas. GM would give employees a percentage of the cost savings. Then in an unusual move for GM, he became a time study engineer, because of his innate ability with numbers and love of efficiently. In 1974 he moved to Fremont with his wife, Joyce and has lived there ever since.
After he retired from GM with 30 years, he started a new career with one of his loves, cars. He became a used car dealer in San Leandro called “Bluefords Cars” having a 200 car lot. He was noted as a dealer with honest and integrity and had many family customers. He would also carry his own loans, making it affordable for people. He closed the car lot after 20 years so he could take care of his aging mother Jerlin, who passed at 97.
Bernard then decided to open up another car lot in Fremont to help pay for a new commercial building to house the Math Science Nucleus, a nonprofit devoted to science education for children founded by his wife, Joyce. Bernard’s love for education helped support the many initiatives that MSN sponsored. California State Senator, Robert Wieckowski commented that “Bernard was the best landlord – ever.”
Bernard traveled with his wife on many adventures around the world including Europe, Russia, and Africa, helping scientists and children. He enjoyed their home in Ponza, Italy where they would spend many vacations with his father-in-law, Alfonso Raia.
Bernard is survived by 5 grandchildren Kimberly and Kelly Martinez (deceased), Danielle and Dorel Baca, and Stephon Blueford and 7 great grandchildren. He is survived by 1 brother, Edward and preceded by 1 brother, Harmon(Leola) and 4 sisters: Bertha Williams, Bell Bullock, Jerline Williams, and Genieve Fowler). He will join his friend of 40 years, Walt Fries, for morning coffee.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Submitted by Washington Hospital

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to increase awareness of the disease. Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women. Early detection and treatment, however, significantly increases the survival rate of breast cancer patients. Mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early.

Washington Outpatient Imaging Center is proud to offer Tomosynthesis, or 3D Mammography. This FDA-approved imaging modality is proven to be a more accurate method for detecting early breast cancers compared to traditional 2D mammography alone, especially for women with dense breast tissue. As with all mammograms, patients must first see their care provider, who will order a screening or diagnostic mammogram.

Cancer won't wait for the pandemic to end — and neither should screenings. That’s why it is critical to put preventive care back on your to-do list. For more information visit: https://www.whhs.com/Services/Specialized-Programs/Outpatient-Imaging-Center/Digital-Mammography-Services.aspx.

Throughout October, Washington Hospital will be hosting an online event to raise awareness of breast cancer.

Facebook Live
Thursday, October 15
6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Put your pink on and join us on our Facebook page for a one-hour event featuring experts on breast cancer treatment options, navigating health changes during a pandemic, and the diagnostic advancements made at the Washington Hospital imaging center. And of course, there’ll be a fun food demonstration!

Enter our photo contest!
Deadline: Friday, October 9
Put on your best pink outfit and send a photo to CommunityOutreach@whhs.com by October 9. Photos will be shown during the event and the winner announced at the end.

Speakers include:
William J. Dugoni, Jr., MD
Nicolas Prionas, MD, PhD
Sunil Upender, MD
Kimberlee Alvari, MBA, RD, CNSC
Alfredo Macias

You can also access the presentation on: https://www.facebook.com/WashingtonHosp/live of www.YouTube.com/whhsInHealth

The Private Life of the (Not So) Master Race
Submitted by Susan Evans

Producers Susan E. Evans and Scott Munson, are thrilled to announce the premiere performances of five new short plays: The Informer by Christine U’Ren; I’m With Her and The People Upstairs by Scott Munson; Judicial Process by Reg Clay; and Judith by Denmo Ibrahim – forming the first contributions to The Private Life of the (Not So) Master Race.

Inspired by Bertolt Brecht’s 1938 documentary portrait Fear and Misery of the Third Reich, the plays will have three live virtual performances October 27, 28, and 29. Tickets are free, at
thebrechtproject.org, with suggested $10-50 donations welcomed.

Why now? Fear and Misery of the Third Reich by Bertolt Brecht was one of the first documentary theatre pieces. Brecht asked the world: “How did this happen? How did Germany come to be ruled by the National Socialist dictatorship? How are the people’s actions or inactions allowing the regime to thrive? How and when will Resistance manifest?” Our playwrights transport these same questions to 21st century America.

In the stories, a couple dreads where their son’s loyalties may lie (The Informer); a Trump supporter bullies and tricks a worker (I’m With Her); man is not his neighbor’s keeper if they happen to be “illegals” (The People Upstairs); a Judge faces an impossible case (Judicial Process); and a Jewish woman remembers her family’s journey (Judith).

The five playlets are directed by Susan E. Evans, assisted by Kimberly Ridgeway; and the Brecht Project ensemble is comprised of 12 performers (four of whom appeared in Eastenders Repertory Company’s 2007 production of Fear and Misery) — some are local, some hail from far afield: Benjamin Boucvalt, April Deutschle, Damaris Divito, Carolyn Doyle, Tim Holt Jones, Aaron Royce Jones, Suzan A Kendall, Francis Koll, Gene Mocsy, Tom Reilly, Kimberly Ridgeway, and Sharon Shao.

Tuesday, October 27 – Thursday, October 29
7:30 p.m.
REGISTER FOR TICKETS TO WATCH: https://www.thebrechtproject.org/tickets
FREE; $10-50 Suggested Donation

Call for Artists
Submitted by City of Hayward

City of Hayward is inviting applications from artists to design and to construct a companion artwork to a Japanese American commemorative marker to be installed in the new Hayward Heritage Plaza. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Saturday, October 31.

The commemorative marker and companion work of art will memorialize the forced internment of Japanese Americans during World War II—600 of whom boarded buses on Watkins Street in downtown Hayward bound for a detention center at Tanforan Racetrack in San Bruno and later for confinement camps in the Utah desert and elsewhere.

The new Heritage Plaza, under construction across A Street from the new downtown library, will eventually contain multiple pieces of public art and recognitions honoring and memorializing Hayward’s cultural heritage and history.

Submissions for the Japanese American art project commission will be reviewed by a Selection Committee of Hayward city staff members, community members, and advisors. For more information, visit www.hayward-ca.gov/business/doing-business-with-hayward/artist-all-call.

Artist All-Call
Deadline: 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct 31
www.hayward-ca.gov/business/doing-business-with-hayward/artist-all-call

Camille Ann Hatfield
January 12, 1935 – October 15, 2020
Resident of Fremont, CA

Camille Ann Hatfield passed away on Thursday October 15th, peacefully surrounded by her family in her Fremont home of 55 years.

Camille was predeceased in death by husband Carl Hatfield.

Survived by her family; sister Mary Scott, children Steve Hatfield, Mark & Jackie Hatfield, Diane & John Bihl. Grandchildren Shannon Weitz, Josh Hatfield, Jacob Hatfield, Brandon Bihl and Katy Bihl. Camille was most proud of her Great Grandchildren Rylee Weitz (7), Paityn Weitz (4) and Jameson Hatfield (1).

Camille was an avid member of the First United Methodist Church of Fremont. She enjoyed spending time with her family, playing in multiple bridge groups, playing cribbage, spending her summers at her second home in Incline Village, Nevada where she loved taking walks and going to the beach.

A small private Celebration of Life will be held with family and close friends at her Church.

Fremont Chapel of the Roses
510 797-1900

Chabot College serves as accessible voting location
Submitted by Guisselle Nunez

Chabot College, the only community college in Alameda County to serve as an accessible voting location, will open its doors on October 31. Following the mandates of Governor Gavin Newsom's Executive Order N-67-20 and Assembly Bill 860 regarding in-person voting, the Registrar of Voters is hosting 100 accessible locations throughout Alameda County.

“As far as we are aware, this is the first time in history Chabot College has been an Accessible Voting Location,” said Matthew Kritscher, vice president of Student Services. “We want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to vote.”

Safety protocols will be in place, including extensive training for staff and volunteers prior to voting dates, personal protective equipment (PPE) provided for all staff volunteers and voters including masks, shields, gloves, and sanitizer in addition to following all social distancing protocols and safe ballot handling.

For more information about accessible voting locations, visit: www.acvote.org/avl. Visit Chabot Votes – www.chabotcollege.edu/vote/ – for any questions.

Chabot College Accessible Voting Location
Student Center Cafeteria (Building 2300)
25555 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
Saturday, Oct 31: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday, Nov 1: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Monday, Nov 2: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Tuesday, Nov 3: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
www.chabotcollege.edu/vote/
www.acvote.org/avl

Chabot Space & Science Center celebrates Halloween with virtual events
Submitted by Mary Catherine Frantz

Chabot Space & Science Center is continuing its commitment to offering accessible STEM programming with special virtual events celebrating Halloween.

On October 31, bask under the blue moon on Halloween night with Chabot’s “Once In A Blue Moon: Halloween Virtual Telescope Viewing” on Facebook Live. Enjoy Halloween-themed learning with a Spooky Science Show on October 30 on Facebook Live and YouTube. This event is fun for all ages, featuring themed activities and thrilling science demonstrations. The public is encouraged to show off their Halloween costumes and participate in Chabot’s Spooky Halloween Costume Fashion Show. To join in, everyone can send in photos of their costumes using #chabotspookyscience on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter or submit them in the Facebook event discussion.

Chabot Space & Science Center is providing new, engaging STEM content every week for families at home. The popular interactive “Live Science!” show occurs each Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. on Facebook Live and YouTube. Virtual Telescope Viewings at 9 p.m. every Saturday night continue a long tradition at Chabot Space & Science Center, home to the only research-level telescopes regularly available to the public for weekly live viewing in the Western United States.

Check out all these events and more below or visit www.chabotspace.org.

SPOOKY SCIENCE SHOW
Friday, Oct 30
7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Free on Facebook Live and YouTube

If there’s something strange in your neighborhood, who you gonna call? Scientists! Join us on Facebook Live for our variety show all about spooky science. Tune in for exciting science demos led by our teen Galaxy Explorers, learn how to make your own Halloween candy and witches brew and hear scientific explanations for things that go bump in the night. Science is so fun…it’s scary!

https://chabotspace.org/calendar/spooky-science-show/

ONCE IN A BLUE MOON: HALLOWEEN VIRTUAL TELESCOPE VIEWING
Saturday, Oct 31
9:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Free on Facebook Live

Join us for a special, spooky virtual telescope viewing on Halloween night! This Halloween, we are celebrating a sight that only comes around once in a blue moon. The last time we had a full moon on Halloween was in 2001, and this year is extra special with a rare blue moon. This will be the first blue moon on Halloween since 1944. Celebrate Halloween night with Chabot's astronomers for a very rare virtual telescope viewing.

https://chabotspace.org/calendar/once-in-a-blue-moon-halloween-virtual-telescope-viewing/

LIVE SCIENCE!
Every Wednesday
10:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Free on Facebook Live and YouTube

Join Chabot Science Educators for fun and interactive science experiments! Together, we will investigate and observe a scientific phenomenon through a captivating demonstration. We’ll ask for observations and explanations of what YOU think is happening before revealing the science behind it. Then, we’ll end with a live Q&A for those burning questions.

https://chabotspace.org/calendar/live-science-2/2020-10-28/

VIRTUAL TELESCOPE VIEWINGS
Every Saturday
9:00 – 10:30 p.m.
Free on Facebook Live

Join our resident astronomers online with Facebook Live every Saturday evening live from Chabot’s Observation deck! Each week, our astronomers will guide us through spectacular night sky viewing through Nellie, Chabot’s most powerful telescope. Weather permitting, we will be able to view objects live through the telescopes and our astronomers will be available for an open forum for all of your most pressing astronomy questions.

https://chabotspace.org/calendar/free-telescope-viewings/2020-10-24/
COVID rules should be strict

In my opinion, Fremont should have stricter rules regarding COVID. Although I do agree that COVID cases are starting to decrease, I disagree that we should be starting to reopen small businesses around town. Just take a look at Italy for example; at one point of time they had the leading number of COVID cases. When COVID numbers began to decline, they started meeting up again, opening restaurants and businesses. Now COVID is back on the rise again. I am worried that this may happen in Fremont. If Fremont really wants to support small businesses, I feel they should support them monetary-wise, but keep them closed for the sake of our people.

Yatharth Sharma
Fremont

Deal provides county schools staff with COVID-19 testing
Submitted by Michelle Smith McDonald

Alameda County Superintendent of Schools L. Karen Monroe reached an agreement, announced October 14, that will provide access to screening testing services for the staff of the county’s 18 TK-12 public school districts, court and community schools run by the Alameda County Office of Education (ACOE) and 12 charter schools authorized by ACOE.

The agreement with California-based Curative, Inc. provides districts and schools with an option to provide testing to school staff. It is another significant step in assisting districts as they put reopening plans in place following the announcement by the Alameda County Public Health Department (ACPHD) that elementary schools (TK-6) may consider reopening across the county beginning the second week of October. The self-administered, oral-fluid swab COVID-19 tests will deliver test results within 48 hours and will allow schools and districts to test staff at regular intervals.

“Being able to secure testing for our school districts has been one of my highest priorities,” said Monroe. “The transition to bring students and staff back to schools, while taking all possible safety measures, brings with it substantial barriers, particularly for our public school districts. Testing has been a significant priority for our teachers, staff and school leaders alike, and this agreement serves to eliminate a critical barrier monitoring the health and safety of our staff. I am proud we were able to offer this option for our schools at little to no additional cost. We also know we have more work to do.”

Public school districts face specific challenges in reopening due to the size, scope and complexity of returning large numbers of students and staff to classrooms. Implementing screening testing for staff is among the biggest challenges.

Following criteria laid out in California’s Blueprint for a Safer Economy, schools are allowed to open when a county moves into the “Red Tier” based on a formula of daily case rates and positive testing rates. When Alameda County entered the Red Tier on September 22, ACHPD announced it would permit a phased reopening of schools beginning with the elementary grade levels, and will consider reopening dates for schools serving students in grades 7-12 in four to 12-week phases as local disease conditions allow. Schools may also bring back students at any grade level under the state’s Small Cohort Guidance in order to serve their students of highest need in small group settings.

The contract with Curative, which has operational labs in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C. and Austin, Texas, comes at little or no cost to districts. Insurance providers, which are legally required by the state to provide testing to essential workers, will be billed for the tests. Testing is recommended for school employees by ACPHD and the California Department of Public Health at regular intervals. ACPHD is recommending that staff be tested once a month. Schools and districts may opt to test more often.

Trend-Setting Daffodils for Gardens and Bouquets
By Melinda Myers
Photo Courtesy of Longfield-Gardens.com

Daffodils are having their day. Floral designers are opening our eyes to a world of gorgeous daffodils that extends far beyond the iconic yellow trumpets. These unexpected varieties include doubles, bi-colors, and split cups, in colors such as creamy white, peach, pink, gold, and orange. Plant the bulbs in fall to see these beauties emerge in your spring garden. Then enjoy how they elevate all your spring bouquets.

A benefit of planting some of these more unusual varieties is being able to stretch the daffodil season. Be sure to include some early bloomers such as miniature Tete-a-Tete. Another early bloomer is Barrett Browning. This heirloom variety’s orange-red cup has a yellow halo at the base, set off by bright white petals. Silver Smiles is a subtle beauty; a cluster of two or three little flowers tops each stem. Greenish-white petals surround a pale-yellow cup that fades to buff and then white.

Pink-cupped daffodils have been around for almost 100 years, yet are still relatively unusual. Grow them in filtered sunlight to accentuate their color. Blushing Lady has yellow petals and a flared, salmon-pink cup. Turn up the pink even more with Pink Pride. Another early-blooming variety, it features a ruffled cup that opens apricot and gradually turns coral pink.

As early daffodils begin to fade, midseason varieties take center stage. This is the time for split corona and double daffodils. Both types work well with the more traditional daffodils, while adding flair to gardens and arrangements.

Instead of a trumpet, the cup of a split corona daffodil is split into sections. These split cups may be ruffled or pleated and often lie flat against the outer petals. One of the showiest split cup daffodils is Cum Laude. Its white petals frame a frilly, peachy-yellow cup with a green eye. Include other split-cup varieties such as Cassata, with a delicate ruffled yellow split cup and white petals, or Lemon Beauty with a star-like yellow cup set against white petals. Can’t decide? Plant a split-cup assortment to find your favorites.

Close out the season with double daffodils. Their fluffy flowers resemble roses, and most varieties are fragrant. Delnashaugh (longfield-gardens.com) is one of the most impressive doubles. Its enormous, 4-inch flowers feature layers of frilly white and peach-pink petals. Tahiti is just as large, with soft yellow petals and red-orange ruffles.

Two of the latest bloomers are also two of the most fragrant: Cheerfulness and Yellow Cheerfulness. Each stem is topped with a mini bouquet of three or four little rose-like flowers, each the size of a cherry tomato. They are incredibly beautiful and extremely long-lasting.

In a vase, daffodils can essentially arrange themselves. The more flower forms and colors you include, the better. Have a little more time? Add a few stems of forsythia or curly willow and some other spring favorites such as bleeding heart, tulips, and hyacinths.

The stems of freshly cut daffodils release a clear sap that can shorten the life of other flowers. Conditioning your daffodils is easy and eliminates this risk. Cut the stems to the final length and stand them in a clean container of cool water for four to six hours. After that, they can be combined with tulips and other blooms. Just remember to not recut the stems.

Nothing says spring like a yellow trumpet daffodil. But with so many other flower styles and colors to choose from, why not stretch your boundaries and discover some new favorites?

Melinda Myers has written numerous books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the nationally-syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Longfield Gardens for her expertise to write this article. Myers’ web site is www.MelindaMyers.com.

Yes, there will be fruitcake!
Submitted by Teresa Schmidt

The Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose are meeting the challenge of our times by hosting their first Online Holiday Boutique!

All your favorite Dominican treats will be available. There will be Olive Oil, Fruitcakes, Honey, even Honey Soap! There are many items handmade by the Sisters available – art, photo cards, origami, and knitted and crocheted gifts.

Many baked goods are being offered, such as Sister Pia’s German Cookies, Sister Lynn Marie’s Bourbon Balls, and Sister Francis Clare’s delicious Biscotti, along with decorated cookies, fudge and much more.

Don’t forget to enter to win a prize at the Raffle! You can print tickets from the website and send them in for your chance a grand prize of $1,000.

Go to www.msjdominicans.com and follow the link to the ONLINE HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE! The boutique will run until Saturday, November 14. And yes, there will be fruitcakes!

National Drug Take Back Day
Submitted by Alameda County District Attorney Office

On Saturday, October 24, Alameda County District Attorney’s (DA) Office will participate in the Drug Take Back Day. Residents can properly and safely dispose of any narcotics, prescription medications, vaping devices and cartridges, and over-the-counter medications. Pet medications will also be accepted. The DA Office will also offer education on prevention of potential drug abuse and overdosing, and proper disposal of medications.

“Please look through your cabinets and drawers for expired or unused medications or vaping products,” says District Attorney Nancy O’Malley. “The safe disposal of these drugs serves an important public safety and public health need. Safe disposal reduces the chance that the medications will be misused or abused and ensures that they won’t be disposed of in a way that is harmful to the environment.”

COVID-19 safety measures will be followed. Face coverings must be worn at all sites by anyone dropping off medications as well as by those staffing the sites. All social distancing guidelines will be adhered to maintain a minimum of 6 feet between individuals.

The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. For more information, visit www.alcoda.org/newsroom/categories/upcoming_events.

Drug Take Back Day
Saturday, Oct 24
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Fremont Hall of Justice
39439 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
www.alcoda.org/newsroom/categories/upcoming_events

Park It
By Ned MacKay

A new 45-acre regional shoreline park is now open at the eastern touchdown of the Bay Bridge, offering spectacular views of San Francisco Bay and the bridge’s new span between Oakland and Yerba Buena Island. The park is named Judge John Sutter Regional Shoreline. Judge Sutter, now retired, had a distinguished career including time as a superior court judge, Oakland’s vice mayor, and member of the Regional Park District board. He is also an environmental leader instrumental in obtaining and preserving public access to the bay shoreline.

Features of the new park include the newly renovated Bridge Yard building, available for future public events; a walking trail to the recently constructed 600-foot observation pier; and improved parking with bicycle and pedestrian access to the Alex Zuckermann Bay Bridge Trail, which leads out to Treasure Island. The pier was constructed on supports remaining when the new bridge replaced the old earthquake-damaged structure.

From 1903 to 1960, the site of the new park was the base of operations for the Key System electric railway, which transported passengers around the East Bay and to San Francisco via the lower deck of the Bay Bridge. A substation located at the site provided electrical power to all the Key System trains.

The site was also part of the Oakland Army Base, which was a transportation port and distribution terminal for the Pacific region from 1941 until it closed in 1999. The district will receive additional property from the Army.

The 1930s-era Bridge Yard building was the maintenance center for the Key System trains. It will be the activity hub for the park, with interpretive and recreational programming, equipment rentals, food concessionaires, and space for public events and conferences.

The 24,000 square-foot building was renovated by Caltrans and Bay Area Toll Authority and has been leased to the park district by Caltrans. The Bay Conservation and Development Commission and Bay Area Transportation Authority also provided funding.

The park district plans to celebrate the opening with a “virtual” dedication, though with some on-site participants, at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 21. For information on how to watch the ceremony online, visit www.ebparks.org.

Robert Doyle, general manager, East Bay Regional Park District, reports that the lightning strikes on August 15 caused major fires in five regional parks: Round Valley, Morgan Territory, Mission Peak, Sunol Wilderness, and Ohlone Wilderness. All were part of the SCU Lightning Complex Fire, which burned almost 397,000 acres, most of it south of Sunol and Ohlone. About 6,000 acres of regional parkland burned.

Doyle notes that the park district has been proactive for years in fire prevention efforts on its lands, especially in places where the regional parks adjoin urban and suburban neighborhoods. Efforts include proper trail and fire road maintenance, and the district’s grazing program. In the East Bay Hills, the district is carrying out an approved Wildfire Hazard Reduction and Resource Management Plan, with funding from FEMA, Measure FF and grants.

We are now in the peak of the fire season when vegetation has been dried by a long hot summer and the rains of winter have not yet arrived. So, the district staff and board are urging everyone to be vigilant, abide by fire-related restrictions, and report any fires or dangerous activities by calling 911.

Everyone’s cooperation is greatly appreciated. Visit the district website – www.ebparks.org – for up-to-date information on the status of all the regional parks, including fire-related closures, if any.

Reality Shows

Some follow a script while others are spontaneous, but the goal of so-called “reality” shows in many cases is entertainment rather than reliable information. While some, such as physical and mental competitions, may impart useful information, many are designed to highlight exaggerated, abnormal situations, personalities and emotions that bear little resemblance to ordinary and acceptable behavior. For the viewing audience, this reality functions as a relief valve from everyday stress and complicated life choices while satisfying voyeuristic instincts. The audience is able to watch and mentally participate without risk or exposure while others perform for their amusement, accolades or criticism.

Following the antics of eccentric families and individuals can be exciting and amusing if they are easily invited into or just as easily dismissed from our lives. However, when frantic, sometimes erratic patterns become ingrained within daily activities or personal lives, show reality can become dangerously intermingled with personal societal functions. When this happens, consequences can devastate normality, impairing judgement and civility.

The political landscape is awash with reality but of what type? Campaigns often paint glowing, flattering portraits of individuals that have decided to participate in the electoral process as candidates. Irrespective of titles and promises, voters must try to decipher the quality and core values of each candidate behind the hype. These are people, similar to all of us, with strengths, weaknesses and flaws. To expect more or less is unrealistic and can create a dangerous reality show of its own. When elevated or depreciated to improbable heights or depths, distortion can replace normality; resistance becomes a personal challenge to those mired in its grip.

Well financed campaigns study behavioral patterns to augment those favorable to their candidate or issue while using perceived weaknesses to denigrate opposition. Unfortunately, this has become commonplace at the national level and has filtered to the local level as well. Enhancing the image of a preferred candidate is part of the political game, but when “facts” without context are promoted as reasons to reject others, the process ceases to be a legitimate component of a free and open democracy. Deceptive statements and advertisements are simplistic and mask truth under the guise of reality. Instead, they pander to the unabashed entertainment value of naked aggression, conflict, and fear in formulaic television shows or movies… a short-term diversion from the problems and hardships of real life, but a poor long-term substitute.

We do not elect our government representatives for 30-minute segments, produced by a gaggle of professional script writers, designed to grab fleeting attention and, if required, hook the audience for the next segment in a week or so. Our elected officials are asked to constantly and consistently confront and attempt to solve serious issues that have lasting consequences. Easy solutions and witty quips to distract from root causes will not substitute for thoughtful and rational consideration that take as many ideas as possible into account. In the end, we rely on those elected to act as stabilizers when seas are rough and emotions high. Those who have remained as steady influences for ourselves and our community, even if all decisions do not align with our own judgement, deserve support. These are not reality show actors, rather real people with many different attitudes and desires competing for their attention and actions.

We may not agree with every decision made, but confidence in the process, attention and judgement of our elected representatives is essential. If complacency by either those elected or the electorate sets in, a fragile balance between them can be disrupted to a breaking point. It is our job as constituents to support those who have remained true to their commitments and, without rancor, ask others to replace them when they have not.

Incumbency in an election is not a free pass to reelection nor a pardon for past misdeeds, but rather an opportunity to congratulate and reward those who have served honorably and continue to hold the trust and faith of their communities. In balance, challengers with new ideas and approaches hold the promise of vital discussion and reexamination of problems and solutions as well.

This is a reality show that affects everyone, every day. Your attention and vote is critical to a strong and vibrant democracy.

Barricaded felon surrenders to police negotiators
Submitted by Captain Jonathan Arguello, Newark PD

Neighbors in a quiet Newark residential neighborhood were asked to shelter in place or evacuate their homes early Thursday, October 15 as Newark Police Department officers and negotiators tried to coax a suspected felon barricaded inside a residence to surrender.

The incident started at about 8:40 a.m. when patrol officers attempted to contact a man who was wanted on a felony firearms arrest warrant and parole violations at a home located in the 6100 block of Castillon Drive. Police identified the man as Jaray Washington, 38, of Newark and considered him armed and dangerous.

When Washington refused to come out of the home, members of the Newark and Union City Police Department’s Crisis Negotiation teams (CNT) along with members of their Special Weapons and Tactics teams (SWAT) were sent to the scene. Meanwhile, officers evacuated two adult women and two children, ages 7 and 17 from the home. Additionally, neighboring residents were asked to either shelter-in-place or evacuate from nearby homes.

After nine hours of coordinated efforts between the units, the specially trained CNT police officers were able to convince Washington to exit the residence and surrender to SWAT officers. He was taken into custody at about 5:49 p.m. No one was injured.

During the investigation, an associate of Washington’s, identified by police as Gerrick Waller, 28, of Oakland, was also arrested for having a no-bail arrest warrant for a parole violation related to felony criminal threats and firearms violations.

Washington faces charges of having a felony, no bail arrest warrant for second degree robbery and a felony arrest warrant for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The Newark Police Department plans to seek additional charges of resisting, delaying or obstructing a peace officer and prohibited felon in possession of ammunition.

Construction begins on new fire training center and fire station
Submitted by City of Hayward

Hayward and Chabot-Las Positas Community College District have begun construction on a new regional Fire Training Center and Fire Station #6 to serve neighborhoods and industrial areas near Hayward Executive Airport.

The project will be constructed as a campus on the airport grounds with classrooms, offices, training tower, facilities for urban search and rescue and other types of emergency response, as well as a new Hayward Fire Station #6.

The training center will become the new home and will allow for the expansion of the Chabot College Fire Academy, helping prepare the next generation of firefighters and paramedics. It will also help create new career pathways for Hayward-area high school students by hosting Eden Area Regional Occupational Program career preparation courses taught by Hayward firefighters and Chabot instructors.

The joint project is being funded and financed through the voter-approved Hayward Measure C half-cent sales tax and Chabot-Las Positas Community College District Measure A bond proceeds.

Fremont Police Log
Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont PD

Saturday, October 10
• Officers responded to a report of a residential burglary in progress on the 800 block of Mowry Ave. Occupants were inside sleeping when they heard footsteps in the living room. The suspect was scared off after one of the occupants started to scream. The suspect was last seen fleeing over the back fence which leads to train tracks.

Monday, October 12
• A commercial burglary was reported at Bronco Billy’s Pizza Palace, 41200-D Blacow Road. An investigation is continuing.

• A commercial burglary was reported at 44700-C Industrial Drive. Entry was through a lock cut on the front door. An investigation is continuing.

Seed money from city, corporate donations provides ready cash to businesses
By J.D. Flaten
Images submitted by Fremont Economic Development

Cafes, salons, and other personal-touch businesses have taken an especially brutal hit during this economic downturn thanks to months of COVID-19 keeping people home. Many of these businesses’ loyal customers miss their familiar shops, but financial resources are often strained for them, too.

One way for Fremont residents to support their favorite small businesses and get a little extra is through the innovative Gift Fremont program. If one buys a gift card valued at $20 or more, a bonus $5 is added; cards valued at $40 or more come with a $15 bonus. Customers can use both the gift card and the bonus, or gift them to someone else – it’s all online, using transferrable electronic codes.

The City of Fremont launched Gift Fremont in partnership with eGift card platform Yiftee and the Fremont Chamber of Commerce. Since the program’s May 21 start date, people have so far purchased nearly a thousand gift cards. “The community has really embraced it,” said Tina Kapoor, Fremont Economic Development manager.

Kapoor, who created Gift Fremont, said it has already generated almost $26,000 to several independent area businesses. There are 43 businesses on the site now, with more joining as the word gets out. Merchant offerings include tea houses, pizza, beer, hair services, fitness, food, clothing, jewelry and more. Businesses are encouraged to participate and can set up their profile in minutes at GiftFremont.com.

When the shelter-in-place orders came in March, Kapoor and her team knew that small, independent businesses – particularly those who rely on “in-person” transactions – would suffer when their doors were ordered shut. “We brainstormed as to how could we really help small businesses engage their customers,” she said. Gift Fremont was developed to encourage people to think locally and to give small businesses much-needed immediate relief. They also established a Small Business Hotline (510-284-4020) that provides businesses guidance and resources.

Kapoor and her team built the program so it would be easy and accessible for businesses. “There’s no cost to a business to sign up for it, and the City has been able to absorb the merchant fees,” she said. The revenue goes to the business as soon as the gift card is purchased, which is not typical for gift cards. “Usually the money is generated for the business as the card is used, but we designed the program so businesses immediately get the financial support,” Kapoor said. Redemption is contactless, and the codes never expire, a benefit to customers.

Another benefit to businesses is the marketing support that comes with the program. “Some businesses do a great job and already have a team in place,” Kapoor said. “We are helping bring awareness and exposure to other businesses who might have limited marketing budgets while giving them an ecommerce experience.”

Gift Fremont’s success has prompted several cities across the Bay Area and beyond to contact Fremont to learn about the program and set up their own versions.

Back in May, seed money ($5,000) from the city helped kick-start the program. Corporate donations, including a $10,000 infusion from Facebook and $5,000 each from Crossroads Shopping Center and Seagate, will help the program continue longer than originally planned, Kapoor said. As of early October, Gift Fremont has already seen a 300% return on initial investment and is expected to contribute approximately $75,000 to the small business community, according to the most recent Fremont.Gov newsletter.

Learn more at https://www.fremont.gov/3626/Gift-Fremont.

Harmony Fusion welcomes singers
Submitted by Heidi Massie

Harmony Fusion Chorus, a women’s a cappella barbershop show chorus, will host a virtual open house rehearsal night on Monday, October 26, to welcome new singers. Guests will learn about singing in the barbershop style and singing a song or a “tag” – the close-harmony ending of a song. The open house will also show what being a member of Harmony Fusion Chorus can offer. A chapter of Sweet Adelines International (SAI), Harmony Fusion Chorus is open to female singers as young as high school age.

What can an a cappella chorus do during this COVID-19 pandemic? “Plenty!” says Joanne Morrison, chorus board president. “Although we can’t meet in person right now, we are fully engaged in learning new music and honing our skills.”

Morrison adds, “We’re looking for women who love to sing and are interested in performing, competing, and improving their vocal skills. If you have a good ear for music, we want you. The ability to read music is not required.”

Harmony Fusion is using the Zoom platform to meet every Monday evening, with physical and vocal warm-ups, practice in breakout rooms, and lots of music education. Because travel issues are eliminated, it is easier to have guest coaches and educators visit from all over the world. The singers are also working on a virtual chorus video to share with family and friends for the holidays.

To get the Zoom link and to learn more details about the virtual open rehearsal night, email info@harmonhyfusion.org or visit www.harmonyfusion.org.

Open Rehearsal Night (Via Zoom)
Monday, Oct 26
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
info@harmonhyfusion.org
www.harmonyfusion.org
It’s a Date

CONTINUING EVENTS:
Mondays and Wednesdays
Parenting During COVID R
Tue: 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Wed: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Virtual support group to help families cope with challenges encountered during COVID
To register: www.fremont.gov/3060/Caregiver-Support
(510) 574-2100

Tuesdays
Free Virtual Sing-Along
7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Zoom choir meeting hosted by Mission Peak Chamber Singers
https://www.chambersingers.org/
Contact: info@chambersingers.org

Wednesdays and Sundays
McNevin at The Mudpuddle
6 p.m.
Dinner time tunes, oddservations, and bad jokes
Via Facebook Live: www.facebook.com/mudpuddlemusic

Thursdays
First Presbyterian Church of Newark Virtual Youth Group
6:30 p.m.
Youth and young adults, students welcome
Contact: brian@newarkpress.org for Zoom Meeting ID#
www.newarkpres.org

Sundays
Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church Family Service
10 a.m.
Via ZOOM
For link, call (510) 471-2581
https://sacbc.org/

Sundays
First Presbyterian Church of Newark Virtual Sunday School
11:00 a.m.
Sunday School, Ages K – 6th grade
Contact: office@newarkpres.org for Zoom Meeting ID#
www.newarkpres.org

Saturdays
Virtual Town Hall
3 p.m. – 4 p.m.
With Supervisor Dave Cortese
Via Facebook Live: www.facebook.com/davecortesegov

Saturdays
Virtual Telescope Viewing R
9:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Free on Facebook Live
Join resident astronomers live from Chabot’s observation deck
https://chabotspace.org/calendar/

Saturdays
Online Comedy Shows R$
8 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Made Up Theatre’s interactive comedy has gone to YouTube!

Online Comedy Shows

Monday, September 14 – Saturday, November 14
Dominican Sisters Online Holiday Boutique
Shop artwork, cookies, honey, afghans, and of course olive oil!
Curbside pickup available November 21-22
https://dsmsj-boutique.myshopify.com/

Mondays and Wednesdays, September 21 – November 9
Music For Minors II Training
Times TBD
Learn how to become a MFMII docent volunteer
Via Zoom
To apply: https://bit.ly/3iAutRW
Info at: www.musicforminors2.org

Mondays and Wednesdays, September 28 – October 28
A Matter of Balance R
10 a.m. – 12 noon
Online pilot program designed to manage falls and increase activity
To register: email hallstp@sutterhealth.org or call (510) 727-8485

Friday, October 1 – Sunday, November 1
Pirates of Emerson Drive-Thru Haunted Theme Park $
Thursdays – Sundays, 7:05 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Extended hours on 10/24, 10/30, 10/31: 7:05 p.m. – 12:00 a.m.
Alameda County Fairgrounds
Bernal and Valley Ave, Pleasanton
www.piratesofemerson.com

October 1-31
Arts & History Online Auction $
Fundraiser for the Hayward Arts Council and Hayward Area Historical Society
https://www.haywardareahistory.org/celebrate-arts-and-history

Wednesdays, October 21, 28
Live Science! R
10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Join Chabot science educators for a live experiment. The theme for October is Light!
Free on Facebook and YouTube
RSPV on Facebook
https://chabotspace.org/calendar/

Saturday and Sunday, October 24 & 25
Niles Canyon Railway Train Rides $
Sat: 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Sun: 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Ride a steam train or historic diesel and enjoy the fall weather
www.ncry.org

Mondays and Wednesdays, October 19 – November 18
Food Entreprenurial Training Academy
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Free online seminar on succeeding in the food business
To register: www.acsbdc.org

Fridays, November 9 – December 4
OSHA Compliance Training $
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Learn everything you need to know to receive your OSHA certificate
DeVoe Construction
2278 American Ave, Unit 5, Hayward
(800) 433-9819

Thursdays, November 12 – December 10
Virtual 4-Part Book Series $
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Spiritual Guides for Today – Winter Grace: Spirituality and Aging, by Kathleen Fischer
Register by 11/10: http://bit.ly/2020_WinterGrace
(510) 933-6360

Saturday, November 14 – Saturday, November 28
Girls’ Tech Day
Explore web coding, virtual reality, robotics, and more! For girls ages 8-24
To Register: https://bit.ly/37aK9Zy
More info at https://bit.ly/341JgAQ

UPCOMING

Tuesday, October 20
Music & Movement Time for Kids R
3:30 p.m.
Enjoy Halloween and Fall songs
Via Zoom
To Register: www.musicforminors2.org

Wednesday, October 21
Petitioning for Relatives and Permanent Resident Status
4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Free info session from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Webex Link: https://bit.ly/33ABTPn
Meeting number (access code): 199 555 5174
Meeting password: NYhgHrpD3*32

Wednesday, October 21
Street Sense: Restaurant & Bars with Downloadable Guide R
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Free training to help support reopening of restaurants and bars
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/47297

Thursday, October 22
Manufacturing Pandemic Readiness R
3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Free business webinar hosted by the Alameda County Small Business Development Center
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/47293

Thursday, October 22
National Nut Day – Let's Get Crazy!
7 p.m.
Groovy Judy & Pete duet live stream
Facebook.com/GroovyJudyRocks/Live

Thursday, October 22
Fight Home & Garden Pests the Natural Way R
4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Free webinar on getting rid of pests using non-toxic methods
https://bit.ly/2IAPyz1

Thursday, October 22
HayWired – An Economic Disaster? R
10:30 a.m. – 12 noon
USGS explores economic impact of a major quake along the Hayward Fault
https://tinyurl.com/yydzgnej

Friday, October 23
SAVE Domestic Violence Stories R
9:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
Learn about common stereotypes and systemic injustices
Via Facebook Live
https://www.facebook.com/save.dv

Friday, October 23
Iliza’s Comedy Tailgate Tour $
6:30 p.m.
Join us in your car for an evening of laughs
Alameda County Fairgrounds
4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton
https://bit.ly/3caSehu

Friday, October 23
Cleantech Open Virtual Awards & Expo R
8 a.m. – 12 noon
https://hopin.to/events/global-forum-2020

Friday, October 23
Latino Business Roundtable
9 a.m.
California State Assemblyman Bill Quirk
Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/378fMmy
Meeting ID: 867 1400 1363
Passcode: 380889

Friday, October 23 – Sunday, October 25
Letters to a Daughter from Prison $
Fri: 8:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Sat: 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Sun: 12 noon – 1:30 p.m.
Heartwarming play about a father/daughter relationship
Via Zoom
https://bit.ly/2T2GNzQ

Saturday, October 24
National Drug Take Back Day
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Safely dispose of any narcotics, prescription medications, vaping devises, etc.
Fremont Hall of Justice
39439 Paseo Padre Prkwy., Fremont
(510) 272-6224

Saturday, October 24
Free pet vaccines
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Vaccines, diet consultation, microchip (Fremont residents), and goodie bags
2290 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(Intersection of Civic Centre Dr., Upper Parking Lot)
(510) 565-8001
http://servingpets.com/

Saturday, October 24
Self-publishing made easier
2 p.m.
Hear from publishing consultant Andrew Benzie
Via Zoom
RSVP to scottfrombayside@yahoo.com by Oct 23

Saturday, Oct 24
Music at the Mission East and West $R
4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Virtual Concert Production with PreConcert Talk & Zoom AfterParty
(510) 402-1724
info@musicatmsj.org
www.musicatmsj.org
Tickets $26 (Available for 48 Hours)

Saturday, October 24
Drive-Thru Luminaria Display
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
American Cancer Society Relay For Life displays hundreds of luminaria bags to celebrate lost lives
Silliman Center
6800 Mowry Ave, Newark

Saturday, October 24
N-1: Alone in the Milky Way?
7:30 p.m.
Discussion of The Drake Equation

N~1: Alone in the Milky Way – Oct 24

Saturday, October 24 – Sunday, October 25
Niles Essanay October Films
Learn about the life of toddler star Baby Peggy, view lost Ringling Bros circus parade footage, and celebrate Halloween!
Schedule and links available at: www.nilesfilmmuseum.org

Monday, October 26
Milpitas Rotary
12 noon
Diana Orlando, President of the Milpitas Teachers Association, on how our teachers are doing during the pandemic
Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/33mfczA
Meeting ID: 896 1186 2310
Passcode: 760442

Tuesday, October 27
Business Development Strategy Checklist R
3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Free business webinar hosted by the Alameda County Small Business Development Center
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/47290

Wednesday, October 28
Immigration Overview
4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Free info session from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Webex Link: https://bit.ly/33BtNpD
Meeting number (access code): 199 317 7870
Meeting password: CIS100!us#join

Thursday, October 29
Affordable Housing Ordinance Update Stakeholder Meeting R
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Learn more about updates to the Affordable Housing Ordinance
Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/3lQoxG9
(510) 494-4506

Thursday, October 29
Niles Rotary
12 noon
Former Treasurer of the United States, Rosie Rios
Via Zoom
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/317563726
Meeting ID: 317 563 726

Thursday, October 29
What Lurks in a Nightful Sky
8 p.m.
Join San Francisco's “Urban Astronomer” Paul Salazar and KPOO's DJ Marilynn for a virtual guided tour of the glorious night sky

Share the Night Sky – Oct 22

Friday, October 30
SAVE Open Mic R
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Share stories, songs, poems, and more!
Via Zoom
To register: https://bit.ly/3hqDwnw

Friday, October 30
Reopening Personal Care Business Safely R
3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Free business webinar hosted by the Alameda County Small Business Development Center
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/47294

Saturday, October 31
Adobo Virtual Festival
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Watch a variety of guest performers as we celebrate Filipino culture
www.adobofestivalusa.com
(650) 290-0542

Saturday, October 31
Halloween Drive Thru Parade
10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Decorate your car, wear a spooky costume, receive a treat
Fremont Senior Center
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont

Saturday, October 31
Boo Bash Drive-In Movie Night $
Hotel Transylvania: 5:45 p.m.
Sleepy Hollow: 9:00 p.m.
Alameda County Fairgrounds
4501 Pleasanton Ave., Pleasanton
https://bit.ly/2GJUBwv

Wednesday, November 4
The Naturalization Process
4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Free info session from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Webex Link: https://bit.ly/35KsZBq
Meeting number (access code): 199 974 8724
Meeting password: KGiRpN9WG@65

Saturday, November 7
FCSN Relay Gala $R
4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Music, honoree recognition, fundraiser for Friends of Children with Special Needs
(510) 739-6900 ext. 3305

FCSN GALA 2020

Tickets: $20

Saturday, November 7
Open-Air Holiday Boutique $
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
3 vendors from Tea & Treasures Boutique display their wares
4702 Alhambra Drive, Fremont

Thursday, November 12
The Choir of Man $
7:30 p.m.
High-energy, foot-stomping musical goes virtual
www.livermorearts.org
(925) 373-6800

Kiddie Costume Parade
Submitted by Jan Smith

The kiddie costume parade is one of the highlights of the annual Ghost House in Fremont. Generations of Tri-City children have enjoyed showing off their Halloween costumes, and we are happy to be able to offer the virtual opportunity to keep the tradition going.

Entries should be submitted virtually according to Age Groups:
2 years and under: dkidparade2andunder@gmail.com
3-4 years: dkidparade3to4@gmail.com
5-8 years: dkidparade5to8@gmail.com
9-12 years: dkidparade9to12@gmail.com
Family/group: dkidparadeFamily@gmail.com

Judges will categorize the Cutest, Scariest, Funniest for each age group. There will also be a category for Best Over All.

The deadline for entry submittal is Thursday, October 22, 2020 with winners announced and published on Candle Lighters website and social media on Saturday, October 24. (Submitting grants Candle Lighters permission to display your photo; all submissions will appear on the website or social media.) Winners will be awarded a virtual certificate suitable for downloading and framing.

Suspect in fatal Milpitas shooting found dead in Merced County
Submitted by Captain John Torrez, Milpitas PD

The suspect in the shooting death of a San Jose woman that occurred on Saturday, October 10 outside a Milpitas hotel was found dead in a Merced County hotel room by local authorities on Wednesday, October 14.

Detectives from the Milpitas Police Department (MPD) identified the suspect as Kevin James Gitmed, 35, of Gilroy as the suspect in the death of Causandra Inocencio, 40, at the Hilton Garden Inn on Ranch Drive. The shooting was reported at about 10:16 p.m., but Gitmed had fled the scene by the time officers arrived and found Inocencio on the ground outside the hotel suffering from a gunshot wound. She was taken to a hospital by paramedics where she later died. A regional search for Gitmed started right away on the case which MPD officials said is being investigated as a homicide.

During the evening of October 14, detectives located Gitmed at a hotel in Merced County. With the assistance of the Merced County Sheriff’s Office and United States Marshals Service, detectives served a search and arrest warrant at the hotel. Merced County Sheriff’s Office deputies made announcements requesting Gitmed exit the room and surrender, but they got no response.

Deputies later entered the room and found Gitmed dead. His death is being investigated by the Merced County Sheriff’s Office. Authorities did not specify the name of the hotel or where in Merced County Gitmed was found.

Just before Gitmed was found, police announced that a combined $20,000 reward for information leading to his arrest and conviction was being offered by the Milpitas Police Department and the Milpitas Police Officers’ Association in partnership with the non-profit Mothers Against Murder organization.

Music at the Mission 16th season: Around The Bay “East And West”
Submitted by Vickilyn Hussey

Music at the Mission Chamber Players Evan Kahn (Cello) and Aileen Chanco (Piano) will envelop you in a delightful cloud of sound when Music at the Mission’s 16th Season “Around the Bay” opens with “East and West,” a virtual concert production on Saturday, October 24, from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. The online-only concert program features compositions by Chopin, Beethoven, Reza Vali, Martinu, and Korngold that summon forth the fabulous flavors of Vienna, melding influences from Eastern Europe and the Middle East with traditional Western music. Each ticket purchased on the Music at the Mission website allows you to enjoy the concert for 48 hours, and includes a Pre-Concert Talk available one week prior to the concert.

“We all miss our audience very much and are committed to keeping music alive in Fremont,” said Music at the Mission Artistic Director Bill Everett. The Fall 2020 Season will be broadcast online October 24, November 21, and December 19. “We will return to hosting live audiences as soon as it is safe. In the meantime, we see these online concert productions as a chance to reimagine performances and bring you closer to the artists than you’d ever be in a concert hall. And if you can’t make it at 4 p.m., the concert will be available via streaming until Monday, October 26 at midnight.”

Piano virtuoso Aileen Chanco welcomes cellist Evan Kahn as guest artist: “Working on this video production with Evan is such a joy! Before filming, we had worked on just one short composition together so I didn’t know how compatible we would be, musically. And recording is so much more intense than straight up rehearsing. He is the type of musician that you don’t need words to communicate. His style is electrifying, nuanced and passionate.”

“East and West” opens with Frederic Chopin’s Introduction and Polonaise Brillante, op.3, written when the composer was only nineteen years old in order to impress a young noblewoman in Warsaw. The next work, Ludwig van Beethoven’s Cello Sonata no. 3, op. 69, marks the birth of the romantic Cello sonata. “It is really the piece that raises the cello from accompanying instrument to solo instrument,” said Everett.

Chanco, Kahn, and Everett are looking forward to introducing composer Reza Vali to the Music at the Mission audience with three Persian folksongs: “Longing,” “In Memory of a Lost Beloved,” and “Love Drunk.” For cellist Evan Kahn, it’s an intensely personal experience, “Reza and I met while I was a student at Carnegie Mellon, and his joie de vivre always inspired me, in his person and in his music. Playing and listening to this Folk Song Set No. 16C is like bathing in a well of raw emotions, so visceral is his writing. We hope that you will discover the colors made by the cello and piano that pull at the heartstrings and remind us of the experiences of love.”

Next on the program is “Variations on a Slovakian Theme” by Bohuslav Martinů, “one of the twin giants of Czech music in the twentieth century, a composer with a distinctively individual voice” (ArkivMusic). The evening concludes with another young continental transplant to the United States, Erick Korngold, who became recognized as a film composer at twenty. For generations, he was “despised because of his success,” as NPR’s Libbey has pointed out. Fortunately, enough time has passed for his works to have recovered in popularity so that we may all enjoy “Gartenscene’’ (“The Garden Scene”) from Korngold’s Much Ado About Nothing Suite.

“This concert experience will be unusual and especially interesting because videography allows visual perspectives that aren’t possible in a concert hall. And please be sure to join us for the virtual PreConcert Talk, available now, and the Zoom AfterParty!” encouraged Chanco.

Tickets are available now at www.musicatmsj.org.

Music at the Mission East and West
Virtual Concert Production with PreConcert Talk & Zoom AfterParty
Saturday, Oct 24
4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
(510) 402-1724
info@musicatmsj.org
www.musicatmsj.org
Tickets $26 (Available for 48 Hours)

eGift cards support local businesses
Submitted by Anne Stedler

The City of Newark and Newark Chamber of Commerce is launching the Newark eGift Card Marketplace, a one-stop-shop of eGift Card choices for Newark’s shops, restaurants, services, and entertainment venues. Residents and companies are invited to purchase the eGift Cards at www.GiftNewark.com to support Newark’s local businesses as they weather the COVID-19 storm.

The Newark eGift Card Marketplace puts people just a click away from the unique local chefs, shops, and vendors that make the Newark community special. Anyone can buy and send the virtual gift card instantly to friends, family, employees, or even for yourself. It works electronically as a contactless solution with no hard copy or touch requirements with no expiration date.

As further incentive, City of Newark is sweetening the deal by offering free bonus gifts: Purchase a $20 eGift and get a $5 bonus. A $40 eGift gets a $15 bonus (while funds last, some limitations apply).

“Newark chose this program because it helps businesses who are suffering in the pandemic and because everyone in our community can safely buy gifts to support our merchants who have been hurting for several months,” said Steven Turner, Community Development Director.

“This is the first program that truly benefits small business owners because the small business receives the money directly and immediately without waiting for a third party,” said Lion Center property manager Fallon Tran.

“This is a unique opportunity for small businesses in our community to keep their businesses alive,” said Richard Lipsit, member of Newark’s Chamber of Commerce. “This lets our community show support person by person, shop by shop.”

To purchase or learn more about the Newark eGift Card program, visit www.GiftNewark.com.

Newark Police Log
Submitted by Newark PD

Thursday, October 1
• At 11:36 a.m. officers investigated a report of a grab and run petty theft in the 200 block of NewPark Mall Road. Loss was $700 worth of merchandise.

• At 12:53 p.m. officers investigated a theft of a catalytic converter that occurred overnight in the 37000 block of Willow Street.

Friday, October 2
• At 12:35 a.m. officer Riddles arrested a 36-year old Hayward man in the 35000 block of Dumbarton Court on suspicion of possessing identity theft documents, possession of drug paraphernalia, controlled substances and burglary tools. The suspect was cited and released.

• At 7:00 a.m. officers investigated a theft from a vehicle in the 39000 block of Cedar Boulevard. Loss was $2,000.00 worth of power tools.

Sunday, October 4
• During a 5:02 p.m. traffic enforcement stop Officer Pacheco made arrested a 30-year old female transient on suspicion of being a felon in possession of ammunition, possession of a controlled substance, and drug paraphernalia. The vehicle was towed and she was booked at Fremont Jail.

Monday, October 5
• At 8:22 a.m. officers were dispatched to a theft that just occurred in the 5000 block of Thornton Avenue. The loss was $2,167.93 worth of merchandise. Upon the officers’ arrival the suspect had abandoned the stolen property and fled on foot. Officers canvassed the area but were unable to locate the suspect. The stolen property was recovered and returned.

Thursday, October 8
• At 1:55 p.m. Officer Damewood made a traffic enforcement stop on a vehicle with registration that was expired for five years. Damewood arrested a 45-year-old Fremont man on parole on suspicion of possessing a controlled substance, possession of burglary tools and violation of parole. Also arrested was a 41-year-old Fremont man on federal probation for possession of a switch blade. Both were booked at Santa Rita Jail. Damewood also arrested a 29-year-old Fremont man on suspicion of possessing drug paraphernalia. He was cited and released.

Newark City Council
October 8, 2020

Presentations:
• Introduce Helen Gordon, Senior Administrative Support Specialist in the Public Works Department.
• Winners of Wellness 6-week fitness challenge honored: George Emmett, Tran Trang
• Recognize Great California Shakeout on October 15, 2020. Emergency Service Coordinator Richard Martinez accepted a city proclamation.
• Presentation by East Bay Community Energy. City of Newark City Council voted to join the EBCE program October 24, 2019. Newark enrollment scheduled for April 2021; community outreach efforts will begin in January 2021.

Consent Calendar:
• Accept work of McKim Corporation for 2019 park pathways resurfacing for ADA access.
• Authorize purchase of Police Department mobile data computers from Lehr Auto Electric.

Public Hearings:
• Repeal and replace Chapter 15.09 of California Residential Code and Chapter 15.21 California Existing Building Code with code amendments previously approved by City Council.

City Council Matters:
• AC Transit will begin collecting fares on October 19th.
• Ballots are in the mail. Vote!
• September 15 – October 15 is National Hispanic Heritage Month.
• Libraries are offering no contact services.

Mayor Alan Nagy Aye
Vice Mayor Luis Freitas Aye
Sucy Collazo Aye
Michael Hannon Aye
Mike Bucci Aye

Niles Essanay Celebrates Halloween
Submitted by Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum

The Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum’s doors are closed at this time due to COVID, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t busy. Between restoring previously lost films from a century ago, working on our theater building (more on that very soon) and producing monthly online visual treats, we are working hard every day. The museum and store will hopefully be open in early 2021 and the theater after that, but for now, take a look on a computer screen near you. Many offerings are accessible through our YouTube channel, but we suggest you check our museum website as everything is in context and in order of screening. Also available online are 2020’s Charlie Chaplin Days and the Broncho Billy Silent Film Festival and other video highlights.

In October, our programs feature Halloween, keeping in the “spirit” of the season, the Circus, and Baby Peggy, childhood star of early 1920s cinema. Links to each day’s program will be available at 12:01 a.m. on the day of screening.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24

THE TERROR OF DRACULA
This special film is unique 25-minute version of the classic 1922 silent classic NOSFERATU. This interpretation, originally only released on 8mm film, features a unique edit of the film, including a completely alternate ending! Reconstructed by silent film scholar Nigel Dreiner with a newly created soundtrack by Fredrick Hodges. Vintage Halloween Fun!

THE SPIELER (1928, Ralph Block Productions)
This film directed by Tay Garnett stars Alan Hale Sr., Renée Adorée and Clyde Cook. The premise is that after being released from jail, two con artists take their grift to a carnival. A worthwhile popcorn movie. Piano Accompaniment by Greg Pane

FORMERLY LOST, NOW FOUND:
RINGLING BROS CIRCUS PARADE shot in Indianapolis
5 p.m.
This is a big one! Our museum will debut a newly found film from 1902 online – it's only three minutes in length but you get to see a lot for that little time: downtown Indianapolis, a streetcar and hand-carved wagons and what you’d expect with the greatest show on earth of the past – horses and elephants. The history detective work of figuring out exactly who made the film, when and where it was shot will be shared by film historian David Kiehn prior to the actuality debuting on the small screen. Accompaniment by Frederick Hodges.

The film will be followed by a Zoom Discussion: The Circus as an art form and its appearances in silent and talkie films.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25

BABY PEGGY / DIANA SERRA CARY
Born October 29th, 1918, she became a movie star known around the world as Baby Peggy by the time she was four years old. As an adult, she changed her name to Diana and married Bob Cary thinking she was leaving Baby Peggy in the past – until she reclaimed her lost childhood and little Peggy Jean Montgomery. She came to author several books on film history and became an advocate for child performers and a real friend to our film museum. Diana passed away this past February and we were unable to have the in-person memorial we planned for the end of March, so until we can all be together again, online is the way we will celebrate her amazing life!

On Sunday, October 25th, we will share film shorts, interviews with the star, and a Zoom program sharing reminiscences of Diana with her documentarian Vera Iwerebor in Amsterdam and Essanay film museum volunteers stateside. (Zoom Q&A starts at 10 a.m.)

THE KID REPORTER
Three-year-old Peggy is a secretary for a newspaperman who is determined to catch a jewel thief. She wears disguises, makes us laugh and is darling in this 20-minute farce. Music by David Drazin.

CIRCUS CLOWNS Baby Peggy is joined by her star-making partner, Brownie the Wonder Dog and is in a circus as a junior clown. Music by Ben Model.

Streaming all weekend:

I BELIEVE IN HALLOWEEN (60 min) by Strephon Taylor
“It was a dark and stormy night.” That's how it begins, right? A good Halloween story has those elements. “I Believe in Halloween” contains interviews with kids telling us what Halloween means to them, fun music videos, vintage footage and photos, antique postcards, advertisements, decorations, and costumes. This celebration of Halloween is complete with a toe-tapping soundtrack of nine classic Halloween songs that Bryan Kehoe and HobGoblin recreated. No tricks, all treats! Enjoy a nostalgic, dark and stormy trip through what makes Halloween the greatest holiday ever!

All information is available at www.nilesfilmmuseum.org.

‘Undocumented Students with Action Week’
Submitted by Tina Vossugh

Ohlone Community College District joins California Community Colleges and partners across the state for “Undocumented Student Action Week,” October 19 to October 23. This year’s action week, while virtual, serves as an opportunity to highlight the challenges undocumented students face in today’s political climate and amid COVID-19.

This week serves as a vehicle to advocate to Congress about the financial and moral actions needed to ensure the safety of undocumented students. Ohlone urges Congress to take immediate legislative action on important federal policies and provide resources to better assist educators and undocumented students directly on our college campus.

“We are excited to have this dedicated week to advocate for some of our most vulnerable students as well as to let them know that we are here for them,” says Ohlone Community College District Superintendent/President Dr. Eric Bishop. “Our undocumented students add to the fabric of our culture and our system and contribute positively to our community in ways many people do not realize and are counter to the narrative that has been perpetuated.”

Since President Trump’s 2017 announcement to rescind the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, the status and safety of undocumented students on campus has been uncertain. On June 18, by a vote of 5-4, the Supreme Court ruled that the Trump administration could not proceed with its plan to end DACA, thereby upholding the program. However, lack of action by Congress on pivotal immigration legislation, as well as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and detentions over the last couple of years, have only caused more fear among our undocumented student population.

Reflections on Water
Dillon Creek: splitting boulders effortlessly
By Devon Becker, Engineer, Alameda County Water District

Dillon Creek is a small tributary to the Klamath River in northern California, somewhere between Happy Camp and Somes Bar. It is also the site where, for three consecutive years growing up, my extended family made an annual pilgrimage for a certain type of water.

Maybe some of our attraction to northern California was that the tumult of our family catastrophes did not seem to follow us here. We came south two states, as vacationers, and pretended that sobriety and financial stability were our family’s normal. Even looking back two decades later, those years still mark the best times our larger family had together.

Every August, we would pile into my uncle’s gray van, as big as a small school bus, and bake for 10 hours as we drove down the five through Oregon. In some ways, the heat and stench of this trip—13 of us on laminate seats with no air-conditioning—only heightened our anticipation. We could picture the creek perfectly in our minds and would debate, with flourishing detail, the exact dares each cousin had to perform that year off the canyon wall.

Although we spent the occasional vacation day floating down the dark green Klamath in cheap yellow rafts, the real jewel–what kept us coming back year after year–was the creek right beside our campground. Part of this creek’s magic was its improbability. Tucked away in a pocket of old prospectors’ claims, the water cut open dry boulders and ran so clear you could spot each individual stone along the bottom.

The swimming hole for the camp was accessed by a single dusty path that snaked down the side of a gully. At the bottom, two enormous rocks, one flat, one round, jutted out over the widest part of the creek. This was where the sunbathers would lie in the afternoons—disinterested locals who provided the perfect audience for our stunting, since only the most dangerous acts would rouse them. Each year we would race down to the water, strip to our trunks, and launch ourselves in before we could think of how cold the water was.

The canyon wall on the far side of the creek rose well over 100 feet. If you followed an ascending line of irregular cracks, you could reach a tiered outcrop and look down 50 feet into a blanket of river stones. The water surface was invisible at that height, so when you jumped, you had the thrill of leaping to your death. Each vacation, we would worry about the water levels in this pool, afraid that this year we would not be able to outjump our previous records because the creek would be too low.

It's funny that now, in my professional life, I continue to track California water levels as they progress throughout the year, using this information to prepare various water supply contingencies for our district. I follow reservoir volumes across the state and keep tabs on river flows in the usual suspects — Sacramento and San Joaquin, as well as their major tributaries, Feather, Mokelumne, Tuolumne, Stanislaus, and Merced.

The Klamath River is too far north to be of interest to our district, and Dillon Creek is probably too small to rate for any water district. Yet, when I think of the bounty of California water, it is always Dillon Creek that comes to mind. I can picture the creek today just as vividly as when I was a boy — coming around its final bend, splitting boulders effortlessly.

Relay For Life Luminaria
Submitted by Christina Ferry
Image from Relay For Life Facebook

There is nothing more beautiful than the sight of hundreds of luminaria bags illuminating the night to honor and remember those with cancer.

When the sun goes down at every American Cancer Society “Relay For Life” event, hope shines the brightest. During the Luminaria event, hundreds of paper lanterns light a track to celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer, remember those who have lost their battle, and fight back against a disease that has taken too much. This ceremony of light symbolizes the hope and perseverance with which we all continue to fight.

Although we can’t be together at the event this year, Relay For Life of Tri-City F.U.N. and Mission San Jose High School want to have a moment of reflection for every life touched by cancer by inviting everyone to drive through a special Luminaria display at The Silliman Center on October 24 from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Those who have already decorated luminaria bags during July’s virtual relay may drop them off on October 21 at the Silliman Center parking lot from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. or on October 24 from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. prior to the event. If you don’t have a bag yet but want to participate, you can pick one up on October 21, or purchase one (decorated by volunteers) on the website for $10 before 7 p.m. that day.

To learn more about Relay For Life or donate please visit: it www.relayforlife.org/tricityfunca.

Drive-thru Luminaria
Saturday, Oct 24
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Silliman Center
6800 Mowry Ave., Newark
www.relayforlife.org/tricityfunca

Richard Howard Davis, Jr.
Resident of Tracy
July 2, 1964 – October 7, 2020

On Wednesday, October 7th, 2020, Rick Davis, loving husband, father and friend passed away at home with his wife, Vickie, by his side at the age of 56.

Rick was born in Lincoln, Nebraska on July 2nd, 1964. He spent the majority of his life residing in different bay area cities before landing in Tracy, CA where he, along with his wife, fulfilled their shared dream of becoming homeowners.

Rick enjoyed operating and customizing vehicles of all types. You could always tell when something was his just by how clean and unique it was. He took pride in owning and maintaining his vehicles as he worked very hard to earn each and every one of them. It could be a dirt bike, motorcycle, powerboat, jet ski, heavy construction equipment or semi-truck, there wasn’t a vehicle on the roads or in the water that he couldn’t operate. He shared this passion with all of his loved ones and could often be found in the summer months out on New Melones Lake with his wife ripping away on their jet skis.

His passion was also his career as he held a Class A commercial drivers license that enabled him to drive anything that came his way. He willingly embraced learning new skills and never shied away from a challenge. While in Tracy, he took his career into a new direction and became an Electronic Maintenance Technician III for the Defense Depot. While at the Defense Depot he still maintained a second job where he was able to leverage his Class A license from time to time and get behind the wheel, a place he always felt comfortable. Rick worked hard, always making the impossible, possible, but never for himself. He was selfless beyond measure and always wanted his children and family to have more than he was allotted growing up. He achieved this in many ways and rightfully considered it to be one of his greatest successes.

Rick made friends everywhere he went; he always had a guy or someone for any and everything. His charismatic and generous personality was infectious and hard to resist. He loved to love and bravely bared his heart to the world around him. He was authentic, one of one and will be sorely missed.

Rick is survived by his greatest love, his wife, Vickie and children Christopher, Antoinette and Ricky; their spouses Angela and Ann; grandchildren Aiden, Colton, Julius and Marlowe; his four legged pals Cuddles and Chloe, mother in law and father in law, the Gordon’s, his brother and sister-in-laws the Angeles’s, San Pedro’s and Bombon’s as well as his many nieces, nephews and his closest friends that he was a father or brother to.
Fremont Memorial Chapel
510-793-8900

Team effort nabs robbery suspects
Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont PD

With the help of a Fremont police drone, K9 officer and a San Jose Police Department helicopter unit, officers from the Fremont Police Department recently tracked down and arrested two Union City men suspected in at least two armed robberies.

The pursuit started at 10:15 p.m. Monday, October 12 after suspects entered a Shell gas station store on the 42000 block of Mission Blvd. in Fremont and stole cash at gunpoint from an employee. The suspects fled in a red Dodge caravan which officers suspected was involved in another armed robbery on October 11 at the Fast & Easy Mart on the 34000 block of Ardenwood Blvd.

Soon after the Shell robbery, an officer spotted the vehicle on Stevenson Boulevard and started a pursuit. The vehicle was being driven recklessly and eventually crashed at Stevenson and Fremont boulevards. The driver exited the vehicle and attempted to flee on foot but was quickly stopped by K9 Officer Karo. A passenger then moved to the driver’s seat and fled the scene.

A community member soon reported seeing the suspect leaving the van at Glenview and Mattos drives and running into the neighborhood. A search of the area using K9 officers, a drone and a helicopter uncovered the suspect hiding in a yard on Mattos Drive where he was taken into custody. During a follow up investigation, a loaded firearm and BB gun were recovered along the pursuit path.

The two suspects arrested were identified by police as Albert Balucan, 27, and Eduardo Garcia, 30, both of Union City. Both were booked at Santa Rita Jail where they face charges of armed robbery, reckless evading, hit and run, and probation violations. Detectives are investigating other possible crimes involving the suspects. Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. Jared Madsen via email at jmadsen@fremont.gov or call (510) 790-6900.

Former Washington and Kennedy vice principal celebrates 100th birthday
Submitted by Michelle Stone

A communitywide, happy birthday goes out to longtime Fremont resident and former Washington and John F. Kennedy high school instructor Roy Snyder, who celebrated his 100th birthday on October 15.

Snyder, a father of six children, World War II veteran, and a local resident since the 1960s, served in such roles as teacher, dean, vice-principal, activities director, and baseball coach at Washington and Kennedy high schools from 1962 until his retirement in 1985.

Born October 15, 1920, in Longswamp, Pennsylvania, Snyder joined the U.S. Army after his high school graduation and served until 1941. But when World War II began, he re-enlisted, this time with the U.S. Air Force, according to his family, which includes his children, Gail, Linda, Roy Jr., Gary, Penny, and Carol.

Snyder’s service took him from England to North Africa to Italy where during a mission on December 19, 1943, his plane was shot down and he was taken prisoner by German forces. Snyder and his fellow POWs were transferred to Austria before they were eventually liberated by American forces and sent home to the United States in 1945.

Through the GI bill, he graduated with an English degree from Moravian College in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and later earned a master's degree in history from Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

Married with a growing family, Snyder worked as an educator at schools in Montana and Arizona before moving to Fremont in 1962 and beginning his two-decade-plus career at Washington and Kennedy. His wife Charlotte, whom he married in 1946, died in 2010.

Grant will help police boost traffic education and enforcement
Submitted by Fremont Police Department

The safety of everyone traveling is the focus of a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety recently awarded to the Fremont Police Department. The $113,000.00 grant, announced October 14, will assist in Fremont Police Department efforts to reduce deaths and injuries on Fremont roads.

“These are trying times, and now more than ever, it is important that we are at the forefront of traffic safety,” Fremont Police Lieutenant Ariel Quimson said. “This funding allows us to educate and enhance the safety of all residents.” The one-year grant is for the 2021 federal fiscal year, which runs from October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2021.

The grant will fund a variety of traffic safety programs, including:

• Patrols with emphasis on alcohol and drug-impaired driving prevention
• Patrols with emphasis on awareness and education of California’s hands-free cell phone law
• Patrols with emphasis on education of traffic rights for bicyclists and pedestrians
• Patrols with emphasis on awareness and education of primary causes of crashes: excess speed, failure to yield, failure to stop at stop signs/signals, improper turning/lane changes
• Community education presentations on traffic safety issues such as distracted driving, DUI, speed, bicycle and pedestrian safety
• Collaborative efforts with neighboring agencies on traffic safety priorities

“Through education and behavior changes, we hope to create an environment that is safe and equitable for all road users in our community,” Quimson said. Funding for the program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

City manager announces departure
Submitted by Paul Sanftner

Jeff Kay recently announced his departure from the San Leandro’s city manager position. Kay’s last day with city will be December 18. He will become the next city manager for City of Healdsburg in Sonoma County starting in January 2021.

Upon reflecting on his city service, Mr. Kay stated, “I have spent over a decade in this organization in four different positions, and I treasure the relationships I’ve built in that time. I am extremely proud of everything the city has accomplished in both good and challenging times. I am grateful to Mayor Cutter and the City Council for granting me the opportunity to serve as the city’s chief administrative officer.”

The City Council has commenced discussions on how it intends to handle the recruitment for the next city manager.

Teen arrested, charged in suspected gang shooting
Submitted by San Leandro Police Department

An 18-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a suspected gang shooting on September 30 in San Leandro.

Police detectives from the San Leandro Police Department, with assistance from officers from the Fremont Police Department, arrested the suspect, identified by police as Colby Demarea Berry on Wednesday, October 13.

The shooting occurred outside a barbershop on the 200 block of Macarthur Blvd. Police believe that when Berry went inside to get a haircut, he recognized another person there as being associated with his rival gang, “ENT.” When Barry was finished, he walked outside the barbershop and waited for the unknown male to exit. Once the male and an associate walked outside and got into a vehicle, Barry produced a semi-automatic handgun with a high capacity drum magazine and fired four rounds into the vehicle. After firing the rounds, Barry fled the scene. No one was struck or injured by the gunfire.

Detectives immediately began an investigation into the shooting and gathered evidence that ultimately identified Barry as the gunman. When Barry was arrested, police said he had a semi-automatic handgun with a high capacity drum magazine in his possession.

“This arrest was made possible thanks to the dedicated, diligent, and focused work by detectives. We also would like to send a “thank you” to the Fremont Police Department who assisted us by apprehending Barry,” said Lt. Ted Henderson.

On Thursday, October 15 the case against Barry was charged by the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office with shooting into an occupied motor vehicle and other firearm violations. An investigation is continuing. Anyone with additional information about this shooting is asked to contact the San Leandro Police Department at (510) 577-2740.

Social Security Matters
Ask Rusty – Can I Get Social Security with My Municipal Pension?
By Certified Social Security Advisor Russell Gloor
Association of Mature American Citizens

Dear Rusty: I retired from a municipal fire department seven years ago at the age of 54. It is a private pension, and I was exempt from Social Security while I was working. I receive about $50,000 per year in pension benefits. I recently got a letter from Social Security saying I needed 8 more credits of work to qualify for Social Security benefits. I was wondering if I worked two more years, paying into Social Security, would I qualify for benefits, since I am on a municipal pension? Signed: Retired Fireman

Dear Retired Fireman: Although your municipal fire department pension would reduce your Social Security benefit, it will not eliminate it. So, if you work and earn those additional eight credits you will be entitled to a Social Security benefit.

Because of your non-covered municipal pension, your Social Security benefit will be affected by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), which affects anyone who has a pension from an employer which did not participate in Social Security (neither the employee nor the employer paid into Social Security). WEP uses a special benefit computation formula which will result in you getting a smaller benefit, but you will, nevertheless, get some benefit amount if you have accumulated at least 40 quarters of Social Security credit. Note that your SS benefit amount will be further reduced if you claim it at age 62, or any age prior to your full retirement age.

You earn Social Security credits by working in a job where you pay FICA payroll taxes on your earnings, and you can earn a maximum of four SS credits per year. For 2020, you will earn one credit for each $1410 of earnings, up to a maximum of four credits for the year, but you don't need to work the entire year to get the credits. For example, if you work yet in 2020 and earn $5640 (4 times $1410) you will earn the maximum four credits for this year.

You need a total of 40 quarter credits to become eligible for Social Security, and those credits never expire, so even old credits earned before your Fire Department career still count. And, even if small, this would be a benefit you have earned by contributing to Social Security, so there’s little reason not to pursue it by gaining the needed additional credits.

This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or financial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit our website (amacfoundation.org/programs/social-security-advisory) or email us at ssadvisor@amacfoundation.org.

‘Day on the Bay’ goes virtual
By Supervisor Dave Cortese

For 10 years, I have been privileged to bring diverse groups of residents together on a sunny autumn day to connect with vital resources, enjoy local entertainment and fun activities, ride in kayaks, pick out pumpkins, and savor free food at Alviso Marina County Park.

As with many traditional and annual events, “Day on the Bay” multicultural festival and resource fair will not happen this year because of coronavirus, and I will miss it. I have been riding my bike to the festival since we launched “Bike to the Bay,” an 8.5-mile community ride along the Guadalupe River Trail in 2016.

Upon arrival, I would walk through the park greeting guests, taking in the sights and sounds, and reflecting on how lucky I am to live in this beautiful place with these wonderful people. I found it rewarding that the festival’s resource fair was focused on health. Our guests received free flu shots, vision and hearing screenings, blood pressure checks and lots of information about services and programs in the County and elsewhere.

We cannot gather this year, but we can explore the Alviso waterway and its unique ecosystem through a new virtual Day on the Bay boat tour. When I knew, for the safety of our community, we couldn’t produce Day on Bay this year, my office teamed up with the County Parks Department to offer a video tour that simulates the educational experience that the county has been providing to school children through the South Bay Boat Tour Field Trip Program that I initiated in 2015. In 2018, we began offering the tour from a boat that can hold 30 passengers.

On Sunday, October 11, we launched the virtual Day on the Bay boat tour with visitors from across the county climbing aboard. The tour is guided by County Park staff interpreters, Luke and Rachel, who will tell you about the history of the area and the people who lived there thousands of years ago, the plant life, the wildlife, and the impacts of humans on the wetlands.

The video tour starts from the Alviso Marina County Park from a dock that was installed during my first year on the Board of Supervisors, opening access to the Alviso slough and the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Traveling through the salt marshes of the Alviso Slough, you will see the shore alive with dozens of species of plants that provide habitat for birds, harbor seals and even two endangered species: the Ridgway’s Rail (formerly the California Clapper Rail) and the Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse. Those two inhabitants feed on pickleweed, a plant that only grows in the marshes of the wetlands.

I do not want to give away all the details of the tour of the Alviso Slough, which is the South Bay’s entry into the waters of the San Francisco Bay and a stop on the San Francisco Bay Area Water Trail.

I invite you to find out for yourself at any time from any device by visiting www.tinyurl.com/VirtualDOB. The video tour will be shared with teachers from all around the county to provide students with firsthand exposure to the Bay, its wildlife, and its connection to our local communities, while providing lessons on the impacts of climate change.

I hope you will join the tour and then plan an actual trip to the Alviso Marina County Park, which besides boating also offers hiking and biking along boardwalks, pathways, and trails. Together, let us spend time figuring out how we can be the best environmental stewards of these magnificent wetlands.

As always, you can reach my office at (408) 299-3030 or email me at dave.cortese@bos.sccgov.org

Dine Italian and support the symphony
Submitted by the Fremont Symphony Guild

A “Symphony of Flavors” fundraiser to benefit the Fremont Symphony is planned for Wednesday, November 4 at Strizzi’s restaurant in Fremont.

Strizzi’s will donate 20% of the proceeds from symphony supporters who order lunch or dinner for takeout at the Italian restaurant any time during the restaurant’s business hours. The event is hosted by the Fremont Symphony Guild.

To participate, patrons must call Strizzi’s at (510) 797-9000 and schedule a pickup time for their food. The restaurant’s “To Go” menu is posted online at https://www.strizzis.com/to-go-menu/ and all food must be ordered from this menu. When placing the order, it’s important to mention that it is in support of the Fremont Symphony fundraiser so proper credit is given. Proceeds from Strizzi’s gift cards purchased on that day also will be eligible for the fundraising credit.

For details, call (510) 673-0085 or visit www.fremontsymphony.org

Fremont Symphony fundraiser
Wednesday, Nov 4
11:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
20 % of lunch/dinner proceeds to benefit Fremont Symphony
Strizzi’s restaurant
2740 Mowry Ave., Fremont
https://www.strizzis.com/to-go-menu/
(510) 797-9000

Applicants sought for various city commissions
Submitted by Anna M. Brown, City of Union City

Officials from Union City are encouraging residents to become involved in their local community. And one of the best ways to do that is by serving in an advisory role on one of the city’s various commissions.

There are openings on these commissions:
• Arts & Culture
• Human Relations
• Parks and Recreation
• Planning
• Senior Citizens

How to apply:
Residents of Union City should visit the City Clerk’s office to pick up an application or visit the city’s website at: www.unioncity.org/201/Commissions. Application deadline is Monday, November 9. For questions or comments about the commissions, email the City Clerk at cityclerk@unioncity.org.

Union City Police Log
Submitted by Union City PD

Tuesday, October 6
• At about 4:30 p.m. officers responded to a report of an assault in the 34900 block of Perry Road. A male victim told officers he woke up to a family member hitting him over the head with a mop. Then, during and argument, the suspect took a coffee pot and broke it over the victim’s head causing a laceration to his head and cheek. The suspect left the house before officers arrived. Officer Silva is investigating the case.

Friday, October 9
• At about 12:13 p.m. officers responded to a call from a male who said he was the victim of a robbery 20 minutes earlier at Shorty Garcia Park on Seventh Street. He told officers he agreed to meet two males at the park to sell about $5,000 worth of clothing to them. As the victim met with the potential buyers, two suspects emerged and approached his vehicle. The first suspect approached and held a hammer over the victim’s head while threatening to hit him with it. The second suspect brandished a handgun. The suspects took three cell phones, a necklace, and the clothing from the three victims. The suspects then fled and were not located by officers. The suspect armed with the hammer was described as a white male in his 20s; the suspect with the handgun was a Black male in his 20s.

Saturday, October 10
At about 10:44 a.m. Officer Olson made a pedestrian stop on 14th and F streets and contacted Michael Tapia, 18. Tapia was found to have an active warrant for his arrest. Olson searched Tapia's backpack and recovered a loaded handgun with a large-capacity magazine and a box of ammunition. Tapia was arrested on five felony weapons-related violations.

Union City City Council
October 13, 2020

The Union City Council heard a legislative update from California Assembly Member Bill Quirk, District before approving the following consent calendar items at its regular October 13 meeting:
• Resolution to open process for accepting applications for commercial cannabis permits.
• Appropriation of $6,300 to the City Hall emergency generator line leak detector improvements.
• Amendment No. 9 to the professional service agreement with Mott MacDonald for public works services, increasing the total compensation by $19,035.
• Amendment with contingencies to the RBC Enterprises contract for custodial services, increasing the total compensation by $335,000.
• Award a construction contract to DC Electric, for 283,850 and transfer $340,000 for the traffic signal video detection project.
• Amendment to the consulting Services agreement with Cooperative Personnel Services (dba CPS HR Consulting) increasing the length of the agreement to December 31, 2020, and increasing compensation to $335,000 .
• Authorization of the amendment to a consulting services agreement with management partners for financial management consulting services to increase the term and the compensation to $250,000.
• Ordinance amending Chapter 18.39, “Union Landing Commercial District,” and Chapter 18.117, “Commercial Cannabis Businesses,” of the Union City Municipal Code to authorize a cannabis dispensary in subareas of the ULCD.
• Resolution approving Union City Transit Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP).

City Manager reports:
• Presentation on Fire Services agreement with Alameda County Fire Department (ACFD) and on alternative fire service providers; Union City’s existing service contract with ACFD has expired and is currently operating on a month-to-month basis. ACFD is asking the City to enter a new five-year service contract for fire protection services. The Council approved a motion to move the matter forward, directing staff to develop a proposal.
• 2019 Union City Police Department (UCPD) Annual Report. Police Chief Jared Rinetti provided an extensive overview of crime data and trends, accidents, traffic stops, outreach activities, mental health calls, training, police department demographics, and more. He also discussed the change that will be coming in crime reporting, from the current methodology, Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR), to the National Incident Based Reporting System (NIBRS) which will include greater detail. The NIBR System is anticipated to go live January 2023.

Mayor Carol Dutra-Vernaci Aye
Vice Mayor Emily Duncan Aye
Pat Gacoscos Aye
Jaime Patiño Aye
Gary Singh Aye

Union Sanitary District
October 12, 2020

The USD Board unanimously approved the following at its regular October 12, 2020 board meeting:
• Publicly available pay schedule for unclassified staff.
• Authorizing the general manager to execute the task order with Carollo Engineers, Inc. for the Aeration Blower project.
• Amended and restated employment agreement between Union Sanitary District and General Manager Paul R. Eldredge.

The Board also heard several informational reports:
• CalPERS actuarial valuation as of June 20, 2020 with projected future contributions. Each year the District receives a pension valuation from the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) regarding the status of its pension plan.
• Summary of the East Bay Dischargers Authority Sept. 17, 2020 meeting.
• A COVID-19 update. No significant changes to staffing schedule and PPE supplies are adequate. No changes to tiered re-opening plan (currently at tier red).

Tom Handley, President Aye
Pat Kite, Vice President Aye
Anjali Lathi, Secretary Aye
Manny Fernandez, Director Aye
Jennifer Toy, Director Aye

‘Vegas Loop’ people mover proposed
Associated Press

LAS VEGAS (AP), Oct. 14 – A company nearing completion of a short underground motorway for electric cars at the expanded Las Vegas Convention Center wants to widen its scope and build a people mover tunnel system beneath the Las Vegas Strip.

Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk's tunneling operator, called The Boring Co., dubs the project the “Vegas Loop.” It would drill underground from downtown Las Vegas, beneath the Las Vegas Boulevard resort corridor to the newly opened Allegiant Stadium, a distance of about 7 miles (11.25 kilometers), according to an Oct. 13 presentation to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority.

A connection to McCarran International Airport is also being considered, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported. No cost projections were disclosed by authority CEO Steve Hill and Boring Co. President Steve Davis. But they said taxpayer dollars would not be used and passenger stations would be paid for by property owners. They said the company is seeking a city permit and will submit plans to Clark County.

The concept includes a loop of about 15 miles (24.15 kilometers), with perhaps 50 stations where passengers would board self-driving electric Tesla vehicles. Passenger fares have not yet been determined.

Boring Co. has spent about a year drilling the $52.5 million Convention Center people mover, which has three stations along parallel 1-mile (1.6 kilometer) tunnels connecting exhibit halls and parking at the sprawling conference facility just east of the Strip.

It is expected to open by the end of the year to provide trips of less than two minutes for conventioneers in 16-passenger Tesla vehicles. The convention authority plans to make trips free.

Davis and Hill have in the past floated the idea of a wider transit system similar to the Convention Center project that would be built and operated as a commercial venture by Boring, the Review-Journal reported. The system would function as an underground ride-hailing system with passengers taken point-to-point to destinations, instead of a subway system with station stops.

Musk co-founded and leads Tesla, the private rocket company SpaceX and the human-computer interface firm Neuralink.

Students to Walk & Roll in their Neighborhoods
Submitted by Maisha Everhart

Although it may look a bit different than in years past, thousands of Alameda County school students will enjoy the health benefits of walking, riding, rolling, and/or scooting around their neighborhoods during International Walk and Roll Week, October 19-23. In response to schools continuing to implement distanced learning, the annual event, which has traditionally been International Walk and Roll to School Day, will be a week-long celebration. Throughout the week, students, their families, and teachers will participate in an array of activities. Students who track their participation will be eligible to win prizes.

International Walk and Roll Week is organized by Alameda County’s Safe Routes to Schools (SR2S) Program, which works in schools across Alameda County to encourage walking and biking to and from school and teaches walking and biking safety.

Organized around daily themes, the week’s activities will be aimed at encouraging physical activity and healthy habits through safe biking, rolling, and walking behavior. It will also be a chance for students to celebrate their school and community spirit from their own neighborhood.

Participating students and families will be able to use an International Walk and Roll Week passport for students to track their walking and rolling throughout the week; for convenience, both hard copy and online versions of the passport are available. Students and families submit the passport, students and families will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win prizes.

Below are the themes for each day of International Walk and Roll Week:

Monday: Explore your neighborhood
Tuesday: Show off colorful and kooky socks on your walk or roll!
Wednesday: Dress up as your favorite character from a book!
Thursday: Put on your silliest hat and take it for a spin!
Friday: Be kind to the environment – identify three trees on your street.

Participants are encouraged to take photos and videos from the event and post them on their school’s website and/or on social media using the hashtags #WalkandRollWeek and #WalktoSchoolDay.

To learn more, please visit the Alameda County Safe Routes to Schools Program International Walk & Roll Week webpage

California Youth Justice Transformation creates new protections for youth
Submitted by City of Fremont Human Services Department

City of Fremont, Human Services Department’s Youth & Family Services Division and Police Department have been partnering for more than 40 years to provide diversion programs to youth who commit first time illegal offenses to help divert these youth from the Juvenile Justice System and provide them with early crisis intervention. As a founding member of the Alameda County Probation Department’s juvenile Delinquency Prevention Network, the City has also provided crisis intervention, counseling and family support services to youth being diverted and youth on Probation supervision. Youth and Family Services Clinical Counseling team, Substance Use Counselors and the Family Resource Center’s Case Managers have worked tirelessly to provide innovative, confidential and youth focused diversion services for youth and their families.

Confidentiality and protection for youth around diversion related records has been and will continue to be a cornerstone of the policies and procedures applied to the program in accordance with the passage of AB 2425, new legislation protecting the confidentiality and record sealing of Police Diversion Records. This legislation ensures that youth who are diverted from the juvenile justice system when they come into contact with law enforcement, or who are referred by the Probation Department, are protected from negative consequences of having a police department related record.

Additionally, in alignment with AB 901, which supports a new vision for youth development and system diversion, the City’s Youth and Family Services Division, is working closely with the Alameda County Probation Department to design and implement trauma focused and evidence based cognitive behavioral programs that help reduce the social and emotional consequences to youth (and their families) that have come into contact with Probation and law enforcement.

For more information about Fremont’s Youth Diversion services, contact Youth & Family Services Division at (510) 574-2100 or go to WWW.Fremont.gov/YFS.