11-22-22 Articles

Historic Homes deck their halls

By Staff

 

Around the East Bay Area, we are lucky to have Victorian homes that have been preserved and maintained for people to enjoy. In addition to being beautiful and elegant, these houses have much to teach about how people lived in the past. Around the holiday season, volunteers who work at these sites put up festive decorations. There is no better time to take a tour into the past! Below is a list of some local historic sites that are decking their halls and offering special tours and events.

 

 

Patterson House

 

Christmas at Patterson House

Friday – Sunday, Dec 2-4, 9-11, 16-18

11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Celebrate a turn of the 20th century holiday at a beautifully restored Queen Anne Mansion. Join costumed docents for a tour of 14 rooms decorated with Victorian-style holiday ornaments. Toddler tour and full tour time slots available

Reserve your time slot at: https://www.ebparks.org/

Tickets: $3 adults, $2 children 6-17

 

Holiday Open House

Friday, Dec 9

5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Live music and refreshments

 

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

Tickets: $7, $8 at the door. Children 12 and under free.

 

 

Shinn House

 

Wreath Making

Saturday, Nov 26

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

We’ll teach you how to make live green wreaths – make one for the house!

Reservations required

Wire frame for take-home wreath: $10

 

Decorate Shinn House

Monday, Nov 28

10 a.m.

Help decorate the house for Christmas

Sign up: Call Joan Butler at (510) 795-0891

 

Victorian Christmas House tours

Saturday & Sunday, Dec 3, 4, 10, 11

Wednesday, Dec 7

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

 

Shinn House

1269 Peralta Blvd., Fremont

http://missionpeakreporter.org/

 

 

Meek Mansion

Saturdays, Dec 3, 10, 17

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Santa visit, Christmas crafts, self-guided tours, Hayward Community Chorus (on Dec 17)

17365 Boston Rd., Hayward

(510) 581-0223

(Check website for daily programming)

https://www.haywardareahistory.org/meek-mansion

$5 suggested donation

 

 

McConaghy House

Saturdays, Dec 3, 10, 17

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Santa visit, Christmas crafts, self-guided tours

18701 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward

(510) 581-0223

(Check website for daily programming)

https://www.haywardareahistory.org/mcconaghy-house

$5 suggested donation

 

 

Camron-Stanford House

Sundays, Nov 20 – Jan 8

11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Explore the 19th century origins of some of our favorite holiday traditions, and how different people celebrated and experienced the winter festive season during the Victorian era.

1418 Lakeside Dr., Oakland

(510) 874-7802

https://www.cshouse.org/

 

 

 

Get ready for Mistletoe Madness

Submitted by Mistletoe Madness

 

It’s never too early to start your holiday shopping! On Saturday, November 26, over 70 local arts and crafts vendors will gather at Marina Community Center to showcase handmade wares.

 

Browse hand-painted ceramics from Helene Roylance, floral paintings from Meghana Mitragotri, useable epoxy creations by Tejal Shah, paper crafts by Gwen Kwok, adorable soaps by Gosia Asher, and much more. All vendors’ items are handmade, guaranteeing a unique gift that can’t be found anywhere else. In its 9th year, Mistletoe Madness is a way to support local makers while getting your Christmas shopping done early.

 

For a sneak peek of the treasures that can be found at the event visit http://www.mistletoemadness.net/ and start browsing even better you get to the event.

 

 

Mistletoe Madness

Saturday, Nov 26

10 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Marina Community Center

15301 Wicks Blvd., San Leandro

http://www.mistletoemadness.net/

 

 

 

New mural at Washington Hospital celebrates Fremont’s diversity

By Victor Carvellas

 

On November 12th, students from American, Mission San Jose, Irvington, and Kennedy High Schools picked up their paintbrushes and created a colorful mural with a hopeful message at Washington Hospital in Fremont.

 

The mural is the brainchild of Sruthi Ginka and Aarthi Raghavan of American High, co-founders of The Athena Project, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the arts and education. The pair noticed that there was a lack of artwork on the Washington Hospital campus that acknowledged the diversity of Fremont’s population, so they reached out to Gisela Hernandez, director of the hospital’s Community Relations department with an idea for a mural. Hernandez ran point, presenting the idea to CEO Kimberly Hartz and members of her department.

 

Once approved, Ginka contacted Ricky Blaha of the Fremont Podcast to get some publicity for the painting event. Dale Hardware sponsors the podcast, and with Blaha’s recommendation the pair inquired whether the store would be able to sponsor the mural as well. Dale Hardware agreed and supplied fifty percent of the more than $400 worth of paints and brushes. The Fremont Podcast provided the rest of the funding, with Washington Hospital supplying the mural’s plywood support.

 

“Aarthi and I are both passionate about art and we’ve both been doing it since we were very young,” says Ginka. “I always thought that we should do something more for art. I see art students going to classes, but I didn’t see them taking the next step in their lives, taking their art into a larger movement. We wanted to inspire them to take their own journey.”

 

For Ginka, art is as much about the camaraderie of a group art project as it is about broadcasting a positive message. “We wanted to inspire a passion for painting, to see that art was something teens could do with their friends. You don’t have to be a great artist; art can be simply putting a paintbrush to canvas and having fun.”

 

There is a message to this mural, though, beyond the communal experience of creating it. The flags, in the form of interlocking puzzle pieces, with hands and heart forming the central focal point, represent the experience of living in a multi-ethnic community. The decision as to which flags to choose rested initially with Ginka’s and Raghavan’s lived experience as members of Fremont’s rich communities. As they submitted their ideas to Washington, the hospital responded with information on the many languages spoken by visitors. This additional information expanded the variety of flags and helped cement the final design.

 

Ginka’s targeting of Washington Hospital speaks to her love of the medical profession (she has several relatives in the field). “I’ve always had a passion for the medical field,” she says, “I wanted to fill the void I saw and do something for the patients, something that would let them know that our community welcomes diversity.”

 

“We were sending in revisions as late as last week,” said Ginka, “but ultimately, this design, full of color and vibrancy, was chosen to represent the wealth of cultures in Fremont.” In order to get some practical direction, the mural design team got help from international artists from as far away as Malaysia and the Netherlands. “As a part of The Athena Project,” says Ginka, “we interview artists and we put the stories of their art journeys out on our website. We reached out to some of them, letting them know the basic intent and plan of the mural, and got their input regarding both its design and execution.”

 

Displayed in a courtyard between the hospital’s two main buildings, the mural represents something new. “This mural is a meaningful first at Washington Hospital,” says CEO Kimberly Hartz. “It celebrates and encourages youth to inspire togetherness. I am proud of our future leaders for using their passion to celebrate our community and diversity.”

 

 

Washington Hospital

39101 Civic Center Dr., Fremont

https://www.whhs.com/

 

The Athena Project

Website: the-athena-project.square.site

Instagram: @athena_proj

 

 

 

Local Unity to Rise Against Hunger

By Esha Bansiya

Photos courtesy of James Varghese

 

Food insecurity is a global issue. More than 800 million people go to bed hungry. According to the World Food Programme, food insecurity is deeply rooted in conflict, climate shocks, and rising costs. Many individuals who want to help feel too far away to make an impact. Rise Against Hunger, a nonprofit organization founded in 1998, tries to bridge the gap between everyday citizens and those in need. The nonprofit organizes food packaging events to help feed hungry individuals around the world and bring awareness to food insecurity.

 

On the morning of Sunday, November 13, the Hayward-Silicon Valley Lions Club organized their third event of the year for Rise Against Hunger at Veterans Memorial Hall in Hayward. While 85 volunteers dressed in hairnets and gloves stood ready to pack 10,152 food packages in under three hours, Hayward Mayor Barbara Halliday expressed her support of this cause.

 

“Our world is in trouble right now, we all know it,” she expressed. “We experienced more natural disasters…not to name man-made disasters like war…People are suffering…It seems distant, but the world is smaller than it used to be, and we know more people across national boundaries and across oceans…What you are doing this morning is so important. I cannot thank you enough on behalf of the city of Hayward and humanity.”

 

The packaging started at 11 am. Five tables at the end of the hall were stacked with boxes of food, funnels and scales on top. Six volunteers gathered at each table to fill and weigh the packets, which volunteers then moved to the sealing stations. Once sealed, a final group of volunteers labeled and loaded the packages in a box. In just over twenty minutes, the bang of a gong signified the packing of 1,000 meals.

 

From far and wide, volunteers came to support the cause of food insecurity and the Hayward- Silicon Valley Lions Club. Tim Berner, a member of the Albany Lions Club near Berkeley, says the most rewarding part is “knowing how much good we [can] do for other people in a short amount of time.” For many volunteers, such as Sylvia Likeman of the Martinez Lions Club, the “hands-on feeling of helping when you can see your product right there” brings the most enjoyment.

 

Ten to twenty volunteers were youth helpers and came with the Mountain House Association of Malayalis’ Youth Group, Girl Scouts, or their Lions Club member parents. Vivek, a high school volunteer, was helping move the boxes of food packages onto a cart and rolling them into trucks. Vivek stated, “We love the mission … we take [meals that we have] for granted … [It’s a little thing to take] a few hours out of our day to come help.” Vivek drove an hour out of Central Valley to volunteer in Hayward.

 

“Where there is a need, there is a Lion.” The Lions Club’s motto is embodied in the work done by District 4-C3 and District Governor James Varghese, consisting of 43 Lions Clubs in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. Varghese notes their most impactful work, recounting, “During covid times, we were able to [get]…an 18-wheeler full of food every Saturday…we distributed [110 tons of food] to Alameda and Contra Costa County [homeless shelters] …We did [this for] five and a half months.” Along with helping locally, the group has been able to train blind women to get jobs in India and is donating an ambulance to a remote area in Nepal by the end of the month.

 

The end of an event signifies the start of a new one. The weekend of November 19, immediately after the Rise Against Hunger event, the club held a dinner for veterans in the same hall. The day after, with the La Familia organization, the club fed Hayward’s homeless individuals. To Lions, the hunger to make a change never depletes.

 

Varghese finishes, “It is simple, little things: small for us but good for them…Even a smile can change people's lives.”

 

 

Hayward-Silicon Valley Lions Club

www.svilionsfoundation.org

To find a Lions Club near you visit: www.lionsclubs.org/en/start-our-appraoch/club-locator

 

 

 

American High School Red Cross Club

Submitted by Jessica Le

 

Due to the formula shortage, inflation, and pandemic, families are struggling to obtain necessities for their babies. With this in mind, American High School Red Cross has partnered with SAVE Fremont, a non-profit organization for domestic violence, to raise funds and create baby kits for families in need in the Tri-City area. Our goal is to raise $750 to create at least 200 of these kits which will hold baby diapers, socks, wipes, and extra donated clothes, toys, etc.

 

100% of donations will go into creating baby kits!

 

We urge you to participate, whether it be through publicizing or donating! Any amount donated will be greatly appreciated, and the deadline is December 23, 2022. You can donate at https://tinyurl.com/thebabycrisis/.

 

Donate for baby kits

Deadline: December 23, 2022

https://tinyurl.com/thebabycrisis/

 

 

 

Mission Peak District Scouts collect 54,500 pounds of food

By Chahak Gupta

Photos by Tim Cannard, Director of Marketing at Golden Gate Area Council

 

On Saturday, November 12, Cub Scout Packs and Boy Scouts Troops of the Mission Peak District gathered at Holy Spirit Church on Fremont Boulevard to sort food items collected as a part of their annual food drive. The service project generated approximately 54,500 pounds of food, 925 pieces of clothing, $3,000 in cash donations, and 6,250 service hours, according to Mission Peak Scouting for Food Coordinator Don Uriu.

 

All units of the Mission Peak District, which spans Fremont, Union City, and Newark—and includes 14 Cub Scout Packs (K to 5th grade) and 29 Boy Scout Troops (6th grade to age 18)—participated in the annual service project, an extension of “Scouting for Food,” BSA’s national outreach effort to combat hunger, with more than 33 million items including food cans and boxes and clothing collected since 1985. Participating scouts also receive service hours for their volunteering efforts.

 

According to Golden Gate Area Council BSA Director of Marketing Tim Cannard, upwards of approximately 425,000 door hangers requesting contributions were printed. Cub Scout Packs of Golden Gate Area Council, made up of 15 districts including the Mission Peak District, distributed these door hangers in households ranging from Lake County and Fairfield to all of San Francisco on Saturday, November 5. Troops and Packs then collected bags of food items put out by these households in their assigned areas starting 9 a.m. on November 12 and brought them back to local collection centers like Holy Spirit Church in Fremont, where food items were further sorted and checked for expiration dates.

 

The Mission Peak District generated 78 bins of food from this year’s drive, an impressive improvement from last year’s 74 bins. Alameda County Community Food Bank Director of Leadership Gifts, Leigh Illion, noted that Scouting for Food remains their largest food drive of the year, with about 68 bins of food sent from the Holy Spirit Church collection alone. An additional 10 bins were sent to Viola Blythe [Community Service Center] in Newark. Mission Peak Scouting for Food Coordinator Don Uriu noted, “In a way, it saves a step as Viola Blythe is supplied by Alameda County Community Food Bank.” Illion added that “1 in 4 people in Alameda County is food insecure or at risk of food insecurity. This year, the [Alameda County Community] Food Bank will provide our network [of 400 partner agencies] with 52 million pounds, of which, a little over 10% comes from food drives.”

 

While describing how Scouting for Food impacts the community as a whole, Mission Peak District Executive Keith Bauer remarked that it aids the scouts with “learning and practicing community participation, community aid, so that way when they’re older, they will incorporate it into the rest of their lives…through charitable contributions, continuing volunteer services, or choosing to participate in careers and programs that facilitate aid like this.” He also hopes that Mission Peak District’s service project will provide “resources to people in need, especially during this time of year when it’s colder and with the holidays going on.”

 

 

Mission Peak Scouts

https://missionpeakscouts.com/

 

 

 

Cohousing pioneer Katie McCamant explains concept’s success

Submitted by Evelyn LaTorre and Jane Mueller

 

Many cohousing groups are thankful for expert Katie McCamant, the internationally recognized expert on cohousing development and president of CoHousing Solutions. She first addressed Fremont cohousers at a “Getting-It-Built” workshop, which she conducted with then-partner Chuck Durrett in 2016. Since that time, workshop attendees have formed the cohousing community Mission Peak Village, acquired land in Fremont, and designed their project composed of 32 private units, a common house (clubhouse) for daily use, and a large interior landscaped area with community garden. Under McCamant’s guidance, the plans are under review by the City of Fremont, and members are eagerly anticipating the groundbreaking of Fremont’s first cohousing development. This interview with Katie (KM) updates her involvement with the cohousing movement and speaks to its growing popularity across the U.S.

 

MPV: In 2016 you talked about how your daughter was positively impacted by being raised in two cohousing communities. Now that she’s graduated from college, does her life path reflect being raised in cohousing?

 

KM: Jessie now works in Washington DC, coordinating between the State Department and the United Nations on human rights, and specifically now on Ukraine. In a video she did last year, she talks about her experience growing up in the Doyle St./Emeryville and the Nevada City Cohousing communities. In both, she was guided by the many adults in the communities and learned first-hand about their professions. She also listened to their stories, which made her aware of the variety of different ways of thinking and gave her confidence when talking with others of all ages. Some even helped her with Spanish homework when I couldn’t! In turn, she taught younger community members how to swim and was proud when they became water polo players.

 

MPV: There seem to be many new cohousing communities cropping up. What do you think the growth is due to and how is the demand being managed?

 

KM: The need for community is ever stronger today. We absolutely need more sustainable market-rate housing solutions if we are to have any chance of addressing climate change. The U.S. is only 5% of the world’s population, but we use 24% of world’s energy. A big piece of that is our single-family-house lifestyle that depends on driving for most activities.

 

Then we had this pandemic where people were reminded that it actually mattered who was living next door…Added to that are ever smaller American households. People are seeing community as a way to address these changing needs.

 

MPV: How long do people live in cohousing and why?

 

KM: People who discover…a cohousing community tend to stay. Cohousing in the Bay Area didn’t lose as much value even during the housing downturn in 2009 as did many single-family dwellings. That’s because cohousing…means support, personal satisfaction, and a sense of security and comfort…The cost of living is lower in cohousing because of the shared facilities. You don’t need a large house for entertaining because there is the common area with many activities available.

 

MPV: What kind of people like cohousing?

 

KM: It’s a misconception that most residents must be extroverts because of the amount of group planning and participation necessary. There is no hierarchical structure. Decisions are made by consensus. The percentage of introverts involved in cohousing is more than the percentage in the U.S. population. That is because introverts can walk into a party or group of people in a cohousing community and already know everyone. There are both abundant connections and private space in which to recharge…Cohousing is for so many. If more people knew about cohousing, they’d be as eager as those of you in the Mission Peak Village cohousing group.

 

 

This article is part of an ongoing series on cohousing. To learn more, visit Mission Peak Village on Facebook, Instagram, or the www.missionpeakcohousing.org website, where you can register for a monthly walk to explore the neighborhood around the future site in the Irvington district of Fremont.

 

Mission Peak Village is a group of friends forming Fremont’s first cohousing community. Memberships are still available. For information, see www.missionpeakcohousing.org or call Kelli at (510) 413-8446. For more information on the topic of cohousing, visit www.cohousing.org.

 

 

 

Grants to strengthen education to career pipeline

Submitted by Chabot-Las Positas Community College District

 

A $250,000 grant from the State of California is on its way to network of Bay Area schools and colleges to help them boost education-to-career pipelines for students.

 

The grant, announced November 17, is part of $1 million in planning grants announced in early November by the Department of General Services. The funds are to be used to prepare students for meaningful careers and address equity issues at local levels. In addition to the Bay Area, recipients, funds are being distributed in the Central Coast, Northern San Joaquin and Eastern Sierra regions.

 

Bay Area recipients include Chabot-Las Positas Community College District and numerous partners including University of California Berkeley, California State University, East Bay, San Francisco State University, San José State University and 16 school districts. Collectively, the Bay Area network is called Bay Area K-16 and details are posted at www.bayareak16.org.

 

 

 

Know an outstanding volunteer? Nominate them!

Submitted by Nicole Espinoza-Roa

 

Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD) is accepting nominations from the public through December 9 for the annual Board of Directors’ Award for Distinguished Community Service.

 

The program, established in 1962, formally recognizes individuals or organizations that have provided important volunteer services to HARD during the past year. Winners for 2022 will be announced at the Board of Directors’ meeting on January 3, 2023 and recognized at the Annual Board of Directors' Awards Luncheon on Friday, January 27, 2023.

 

It’s important to note that recipients of the district’s Volunteer of the Month Award in the preceding twelve months aren’t eligible for recognition of the same services. Before making a nomination, people should check a list of previous winners posted on the HARD website.

 

Nomination forms are available at the HARD District Office, 1099 E St., Hayward, or online at www.HaywardRec.org/awards. For details, call Adriane Lee Bird at (510) 881-6704.

 

 

 

Dana Dargos blends science, philosophy and humor: “Einstein In The Attic”

Submitted by Knuti VanHoven

 

On Saturday November 26, Fremont Area Writers will host local celebrity author Dana Dargos to discuss her debut book “Einstein In the Attic,” co-authored with Said Al Bizri. Their collaboration has already won the Literary Titan and Speak Up Talk Radio Firebird Book Awards, as well as Honorable Mentions at the New York, Hollywood and San Francisco Book Festivals.

 

Dargos began writing at the age where her thoughts were most often recorded in crayon, but even then, she says she knew that this was her destiny. Her path took her to Ohlone College where she won a scholarship from the Fremont Branch of the American Association of University Women (still her strong supporters) then on to UC Berkeley and now, to publication.

 

It took Dana and co-author Al Bizri five years of historical and scientific research to create this blend of science fiction, religion, philosophy and humor in which great minds Albert Einstein, Baruch Spinoza, Soren Kierkegaard and Sir Isaac Newton are brought together via a hadron-collider-based time machine to try to solve mysteries of the universe.

 

Dana will be discussing her process as an author, co-author and web-publicist and is eager to answer questions from other writers and lovers of fiction.

 

The meeting by Zoom is free of charge and open to anyone who loves writing or just wants to hone their skills. For a zoom invitation to the live event, send an email with “FAW” on the subject line, to scottfrombayside@yahoo.com.

 

For more information go to https://cwcfremontareawriters.org

 

 

Fremont Area Writers: Dana Dargos

Saturday, Nov 26

2 p.m.

Via Zoom

Request link from: scottfrombayside@yahoo.com

https://cwcfremontareawriters.org

 

 

 

Flash Fiction Fairy Tale Contest winner 6

Submitted by Arathi Satish

 

Concluding our series on the winners of this year’s Flash Fiction Contest, below is the winner of the President Emeritus Award. While other winners were decided by vote, this story was personally selected by former Fremont Cultural Arts Council President Margaret Thornberry.

 

Thank you to all who participated, volunteered, and voted! Check the website in Fall 2023 for next year’s contest and theme https://fremontculturalartscouncil.org/

 

 

Magical Meals

By Nitika Sathiya

 

“Mix the enchanted cardamom and spices for great surprises!” the chefs say as customers walk in with curious faces.

 

A sign reads, “Magical food! From laddos, saffron, chai, jamun, to cashew barfis too.” “Each with a spell cast upon thee,” Head Chef Rani tells me. “Buy one get 2 free!” she continues persuasively.

 

Twists of wrists and fingers bending transform food into the never ending. Spells cast upon the goods make them evolve into treasure. The smell is of sweet brown sugar, coconut, and nuts inside this astonishing cafe. The magic creates a gold hue around the store. It’s almost as if it’s a blessing to just witness the decor. Elephants in many different colors brighten the shelves, and plants fill the corners happily. Streams of beads on strings run across the ceiling in waves of beauty and lavish complexity. The only thing missing is the pantry.

 

It’s hidden away in a private room, and the password is only given to the master chefs. I’ve heard it’s the size of a master bedroom, and the interior has so many shelves and hidden buttons that everyone gets confused.

 

The rumors say the pantry has its own mind; it moves in the rhythm of classical Indian beats. It can only be successful in such a harmony, where everyone is moving their body.

 

I watched as my people danced around the kitchen in peace; they evolved a sweet and made me complete.

 

That’s the beauty of our food; a bite makes you remember everything that's good.

 

It has memories dancing; it can cure any nightmare.

 

Remember to stop by your local cafe of enchantment. You only have so long before the recipes disappear, so you need to learn them.

 

It's important to create and share our magical meals.

 

 

 

Free money for college?

Submitted by Alameda County Office of Education

 

The Alameda County Office of Education (ACOE), in conjunction with the Office of State Treasurer Fiona Ma, will host a Town Hall where eligible youths can learn about and register for the new California Kids Investment and Development Savings (CalKIDS) Program that provides free money for education after high school.

 

CalKIDS provides all babies born in California on or after July 1, 2022, up to $100 in a college savings account. Additionally, eligible low-income public-school students may qualify to receive up to $1,500 in college savings for their future.

 

The Town Hall is set for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 29 at the ACOE main office in Hayward. It also will be simulcast virtually on Zoom for those who cannot attend in person. Spanish translation will be available.

 

Anyone interested in attending the event should reserve a spot by registering at www.acoe.org/calkids or www.acoe.org/register. More information about CalKIDS is available at www.calkids.org.

 

 

CalKIDS Town Hall

Tuesday, Nov 29

6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Alameda County Office of Education

313 W. Winton Ave, Hayward

Register online: www.acoe.org/calkids

Free

 

 

 

Turkey donations welcomed in Newark

Submitted by Debra Rodriguez

Photo courtesy of Viola Blythe Community Services

 

There are likely many smiling faces at the Viola Blythe Community Service Center this week as the non-profit agency received 250 turkey donations for the Thanksgiving holiday courtesy of the Newark Police Department (NPD).

 

Volunteers from NPD delivered turkeys to the center’s Newark warehouse on Wednesday, November 16. Newark Scout Packs and Troops also delivered more than 4,000 canned good items for the group’s food pantry that they collected from Newark homes in mid-November food drive. Much of the food is being used in Thanksgiving food boxes being prepared by Viola Blythe Center volunteers for distribution to local families in need.

 

The holiday season is one of the center’s busiest times of the year. Upcoming programs include a Children’s Drive-thru Christmas party, adopt-a-family program and a Christmas food basket program. Volunteers and donations are always welcome. For details, visit the Viola Blythe Community Services website at www.violablythe.org.

 

 

 

Homework volunteers sought

Submitted by Nathan Silva

 

Castro Valley Library officials are looking for dedicated and enthusiastic high school volunteers to help in its Homework Assistance Center.

 

Volunteers typically work just a few hours a week helping other students tackle their school homework. Participants are eligible for community service hours and can include their work on their resume.

 

An orientation for new volunteers is set for 4 p.m. Wednesday, December 14 at the library, 3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley. For details, call (510) 667-7900.

 

 

 

Police open doors for children’s ornament party

Submitted by Union City PD

Photo by Marco Verch, Flickr Creative Commons

 

When the Union City Police Department (UCPD) hosted its first Ornament Party for children several years ago, they really didn’t know what to expect. However, it quickly became clear that the kids loved the gathering and the event was deemed a success. It was quickly decided that the party should be an annual affair.

 

This year, UCPD will host its Annual Kid’s Ornament Party on Saturday, December 3 at its headquarters on Alvarado-Niles Road in Union City. The four-hour event starts at 11 a.m. and is aimed at children ages 2 to 12 and their parents or older siblings who can help supervise them.

 

Holiday treats including hot chocolate, cookies and popcorn will be served and children will get a holiday ornament to take home. Special guest will be Santa Claus.

 

 

Kid’s Ornament Party

Saturday, Dec 3

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

For children ages 2 to 12

Union City Police Department

34009 Niles Alvarado-Road

(510) 471-1365

Admission: Free

 

 

 

Morrisson Theater Chorus

Submitted by Erma Smith

 

The Morrisson Theater Chorus returns for a joyous holiday concert on Friday, December 9, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, December 11 at 2 p.m., in the Douglas Morrisson Theater. This unforgettable night of uplifting music is sure to raise spirits and spark the holiday mood. Cesar Cancino will again direct, and entertain with his informative and witty comments about the music and solo performers. Put on your warm, fuzzy, or ugly holiday sweater, and attend this night of glorious music and fun.

 

Tickets can be purchased at the HARD offices at 1099 E St., Hayward, or online at www.haywardrec.org. Call (510) 881-6700 for assistance if needed. Tickets will not be available at the door.

 

 

Morrisson Theater Chorus

Friday, Dec 9; 8 p.m.

Sunday, Dec 11; 2 p.m.

Douglas Morrisson Theater

22311 Third St., Hayward

(510) 881-6700

www.haywardrec.org

Purchase tickets at H.A.R.D office or online

 

 

 

Kaiser nurse strike averted

Submitted by California Nurses Association

 

More than 21,000 registered nurses and nurse practitioners at 21 Kaiser Permanente facilities in Northern California, reached a tentative agreement with management on Nov. 17, averting a two-day strike that was set to begin on Monday, Nov. 21.

 

Kaiser registered nurses and nurse practitioners in Northern California have been in negotiations since June 2022. On Sept. 1, nurses at Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center (LAMC) joined their Northern California nurse colleagues in holding informational pickets for a total of more than 22,000 nurses.

 

The Northern California RNs and NPs will vote to ratify the new contract over the next few weeks. Registered nurses at Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Medical Center also reached a tentative Nov. 17 and are expected to vote to ratify the contract Tuesday, Nov. 22.

 

Highlights of the contract are posted on the California Nurses Association website at www.nationalnursesunited.org.

 

 

 

Oakland Zoo treating sick and orphaned bear cub

Submitted by Isabella Linares, Oakland Zoo

 

An orphaned black bear cub, estimated to be eight months old and weighing 28 pounds, was brought to Oakland Zoo the evening of November 11 by wildlife biologists from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). The cub is very sick and suffering from multiple health issues, including a severe skin infection that has caused extreme hair loss, pneumonia, a viral infection, internal parasites, and a deeply infected bone in his left front foot, causing lameness in walking.

 

The cub was given the name Nixon by the concerned citizens who reported him wandering into a retail shop called Nixon in South Lake Tahoe the previous week.

 

CDFW received the bear cub from Bear League in Lake Tahoe, after the group posted an update about the bear to interested locals on their Facebook page. CDFW conducted a veterinary assessment treatment, performed initial examinations, and contacted Oakland Zoo for further care and hopeful rehabilitation at the Zoo’s Veterinary Hospital.

 

“It’s touch and go right now. This cub is a tough little guy; despite his physical state, he’s eating well and is in good spirits. We are putting our best efforts into practicing next-level medicine on him, and hope we can save his life,” said Dr. Alex Herman, Head of Veterinary Services at Oakland Zoo.

 

Nixon has been receiving treatment at the zoo. “At this time, his prognosis is extremely guarded,” zoo officials said on November 15. “Although this cub has serious medical issues, the Oakland Zoo team is highly capable and graciously agreed to further evaluate this cub and provide the best care possible. CDFW and the zoo will work together to determine the best course of action for the cub and to keep the public updated,” said CDFW Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Brandon Munk.

 

The zoo’s veterinary team is closely monitoring the cub and will alter his treatment as needed. Their primary concern is the infected bone in the cub’s foot and severe pneumonia. If he recovers, zoo officials said Nixon cannot be released back into the wild because he was orphaned at such a young age and is unable to learn how to survive in the wild without his mother.

 

More information about Oakland Zoo’s Animal Welfare and Conservation work is posted on its website at www.oaklandzoo.org/animal-welfare.

 

 

 

Visit Old Mission San Jose museum and gift shop

Submitted by Gary Dorighi

 

With family and friends visiting for the Holidays, consider exploring the treasure in our own backyard – Old Mission San Jose! Shop for unique gifts and learn our area’s history. Mission San Jose, the 14th of the 21 California Missions, has been recognized by the National Register of Historic Places and the California State Historic Landmarks Commission.

 

Christmas shoppers will find books, jewelry, ornaments, apparel, religious items, creches, and more. And you can still buy 225th Anniversary commemorative items while they last. We have coffee mugs, decanter & wine glass sets, heritage wine glasses, beer mugs, and more. Selected items will be discounted 25% from November 18 through December 31.

 

Take a self-guided tour that explores the Mission Museum, Church, historic cemetery, and concludes in our beautiful garden. In the museum, see our new, 18-minute educational video. It begins with the lives of the indigenous people, the Ohlone, prior to the founding of Mission San Jose in 1797. The video continues with a description of day-to-day living at the mission and how it prospered through to the end of the California Missions in 1836. And post mission period, how the structure played a role in the California gold rush.

 

The museum was formerly the living quarters or Convento for the padres. Constructed in 1809, it is the oldest standing adobe building in Alameda County and displays historical treasures from the pre-Columbian era, Mission era, and Rancho period. It has one of the finest vestment collections of the California Missions.

 

Many consider the beautifully reconstructed 1809 Church to be the highlight of their visit, and it includes many original artifacts. You can follow our handy guide sheet to identify its many treasures.

 

A walk through the historic cemetery reminds us of the key Europeans living in the area such as Livermore, Bernal, and Alviso. And the Garden contains plants primarily from the Mission period including 200-year-old olive trees.

 

We are OPEN Thanksgiving Weekend! (Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas, and New Year’s.)

 

 

Old Mission San Jose

Wednesday – Friday: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Saturday & Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

43300 Mission Blvd., Fremont

(510) 657-1797

www.missionsanjose.org

 

 

 

State and Local Organics Reduction and Recycling Law

Submitted by Republic Services

 

Did you know that all residents and businesses in California are required to separate compostable (organics) and recyclable materials from landfill (garbage) materials? This requirement was established by California Senate Bill (SB) 1383, the State’s mandatory organics reduction and recycling law, effective January 1, 2022. The law is implemented in Union City under Municipal Code Chapter 7.24 in partnership with Republic Services, Tri-CED Community Recycling, StopWaste, and the Alameda County Environmental Health Department.

 

Why should I compost?

In 2018, 35 million tons of food scraps were disposed in landfills and only 2.6 million tons of food scraps were composted (source: Environmental Protection Agency). When food scraps and other compostable materials such as food-soiled paper and yard trimmings break down in landfills, they produce methane, a harmful greenhouse gas 80x more potent than carbon dioxide. When Union City residents place compostable materials in their green compost cart, they not only reduce methane emissions and address climate change, but they also create compost – a valuable soil amendment that retains moisture, conserves water, and nourishes plants and trees.

 

Union City residents are provided a Food Scraps Kitchen Pail to conveniently collect food scraps at no additional charge. The Kitchen Pail can be used to collect and transport food scraps and food-soiled paper to your green compost cart. Please contact Republic Services at (510) 657-3500 to request a Kitchen Pail at no additional cost. Remember that other compostable materials such as yard trimmings and untreated wood should also be placed in the compost cart.

 

Visit www.UnionCityRecycles.org to learn more about what is accepted in Union City’s curbside compost collection program and to download free resources. Visit www.StopFoodWaste.org to find simple shopping, cooking, and food storage techniques to prevent food waste from being generated in the first place.

 

 

 

Scout training “back on track” thanks to new partnership with Niles Canyon Railway

Submitted by Eve Marie Little

 

Imagine being able to learn about dozens of historic trains by having them literally right in front of you, and having the opportunity to stretch out your arms as wide as the wheels of the engine. Very few people get the chance to board century-old trains and connect with this big part of American History right in front of them. Thanks to Niles Canyon Railway, over a dozen scouts got to see rare trains while completing one of the “fastest moving” merit badges in just one day.

 

BSA scouts (formerly Boy Scouts of America) have the opportunity to choose from over 100 merit badges as they are on their route towards their Eagle Scout goal. Some merit badge topics can be a combination of worksheets, YouTube videos, and conversations with Merit Badge Counselors.

 

But nothing beats a fully interactive hands-on experience in a merit badge. So, when Niles Canyon Railway heard that there was a railroad merit badge, they jumped in on the chance to get involved and offer the scouts an opportunity to get face-to-face with these huge engines. “We used to have a volunteer of ours who was a merit badge counselor, but when he moved away, we did not have anyone interested in taking over,” said Donna Alexander, one of Nile Canyon Railway’s top volunteers. But thanks to some networking at the Niles Canyon Stroll & Roll earlier this year, the program is going full steam ahead.

 

Fifteen Mission Peak District scouts got the opportunity to walk around the railroad site, hear a 30-year railroad veteran speak about his experiences working with trains, work face-to-face with experienced merit badge counselors, see a huge variety of trains, witness some amazing examples of rail restoration, and even got to take a quick ride on one of the vintage trains! All the scouts were impressed with the history and science behind trains, and they all agreed that the trains definitely looked even bigger when they got right next to them.

 

“The goal of our partnership with the scouts is to get them excited about trains and get more involved in their maintenance and restoration,” said Donna, “We need a future wave of leaders to continue the mission here.” Niles Canyon Railway is hoping to host more railroad merit badges, scout site clean-ups, and Eagle projects in the future. And after this successful weekend, everything seems to be on route to success.

 

BSA Mission Peak District helps organize a variety of scout activities throughout the year for hundreds the girls and boy scouts in the Fremont, Newark, and Union City area. For more information, visit www.missionpeakscouts.com.

 

Niles Canyon Railway is comprised of a large group of volunteers who have a passion for the history of trains. Hundreds of hours are spent refurbishing old trains that otherwise would have ended up in a metal scrap yard. All their work is funded by donations, including their upcoming Train of Lights. For more information about this organization, visit https://www.ncry.org.

 

 

 

Tri-City Band Corps registration open

Submitted by Tri-City Band Corps

 

Founded in 2004, Tri-City Band Corps (TBC) is an independent student-centered and student-led marching band where members can further their music, teamwork and leadership skills. They participate in local events such as the Fremont 4th of July Parade, and on November 25, three units (elementary, middle, and high school) will be marching in the Niles Festival of Lights Parade.

 

Registration is currently open for TBC’s winter season programs, for students elementary through high school.

1. Winter Guard – Dance program for kids grades 6+. Our team is the current defending champion for the Independent Regional A class
2. Winter Drumline – Program for percussion students to compete in indoor percussion ensembles. In Fremont only Mission San Jose High School has a team, so our program is open to students from the other schools, middle schools, Newark memorial, etc.
3. Special Needs Drumline – Percussion program for special needs students.
4. Winter Drum Major – student conductor and leader training.

For more information and to register, go to https://www.tricitybandcorps.org/. Registration closes on December 3, and rehearsals start December 4.

 

 

Tri-City Band Corps

Winter season registration open until: Dec 3

https://www.tricitybandcorps.org/

 

 

 

Water restrictions still in place

Submitted by City of Fremont

 

Despite recent rains in the Bay Area, Alameda County Water District (ACWD) officials are reminding customers that water use restrictions are still in effect in Fremont.

 

From now until the end of the year ACWD is asking all Fremont households to limit their outdoor watering to one day every other week. In addition, irrigation/sprinkler use within 48 hours of measurable rainfall is prohibited.

 

For water-saving tips visit the ACWD webpage at acwd.org.

 

 

 

HISTORY MATTERS

 

By John Grimaldi and David Bruce Smith

November 16 through 30

 

Road to the Constitution

On November 17, 1777, the Articles of Confederation were submitted to the 13 original colonies “to establish and preserve [their] independence.” Twelve years later, they were scrapped in favor of the Constitution, which reshuffled the Law of the Land.

 

According to the Library of Congress (LOC), “The Articles created a loose confederation of sovereign states and a weak central government, leaving most of the power with the state governments. Once peace removed the rationale of wartime necessity the weaknesses of the 1777 Articles of Confederation became increasingly apparent.

 

Divisions among the states and even local rebellions threatened to destroy the fruits of the Revolution. Nationalists, led by James Madison, George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, and James Wilson, almost immediately began working toward strengthening the federal government. They turned a series of regional commercial conferences into a national constitutional convention at Philadelphia in 1787.”

 

The LOC says the difference between the Articles and the Constitution is “that the Articles sovereignty resided in the states, and the Constitution was declared the law of the land when it was ratified which significantly increased the power of the federal government.”

 

The Grateful American Book Prize recommends “We Have Not a Government: The Articles of Confederation and the Road to the Constitution” by George William Van Cleve.

 

President Taft remembered

Elizabeth Jaffray was a White House housekeeper during the presidency of William Howard Taft. In a November 27, 1911 diary entry, she expressed concern about Taft’s health, noting that she’d had a talk with him and the First Lady “about the Commander-in-Chief’s ever-expanding waistline,” says History.com.

 

“Taft’s 5′ 11″ frame carried anywhere between 270 pounds and 340 pounds over the course of his adult life. According to his biographers, he had to have his shoes tied by his valet and often got stuck in the White House bathtub and had to be lifted out by two or more men. Once, while visiting the czar of Russia, Taft split his pants seam while descending from a carriage.”

 

Even so, he completed his one term presidency, jettisoned to Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in 1921 — and lost weight — but never recouped his health. Taft died in April 1930, one month after vacating the Bench.

 

For more information, the Grateful American Book Prize suggests “William Howard Taft: The American Presidents Series: The 27th President, 1909-1913” by Jeffrey Rosen.

 

The first kickoff

Turkey, pumpkin pie, and football — it wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without them! It’s been a fact of American life for 146 years when, on November 30, 1876, Yale defeated Princeton, 2-0, in a showdown in Hoboken, New Jersey. The holiday was on November 30 that year when the tradition was born, according to History.com.

 

A thousand fans attended, and the New York Times reported “The friends of both colleges mustered in good force. Several carriages containing ladies were on the ground, and a goodly number of Alumni were there to cheer the contestants.” The Daily Herald noted that “The Yale team wore blue skullcaps, shirts, stockings of the same color and white flannel trowsers [sic]. The Princeton lads were gorgeous in their orange and black uniforms.”

 

Unlike the civility of 21st century play, back then the game was a ragtag event “resembling Greco-Roman wrestling.”

 

The Grateful American Book Prize recommends “Thanksgiving: The True Story” by Penny Colman.

 

 

This feature is courtesy of The Grateful American Book Prize, which is an annual award given to authors who have created outstanding works of historical fiction or nonfiction for seventh to ninth graders. Visit them at gratefulamericanbookprize.com.

 

 

 

News and notes from around the world

Submitted by The Association of Mature American Citizens

 

Another fish story

The crew and the folks who chartered their boat got a rude awakening while fishing for Kingfish off the coast of New Zealand recently when a very large Mako shark took their bait instead, reports the Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC). It was quite a surprise but nothing compared to what happened next: the shark jumped out of the water and landed on the bow of the boat flopping, flipping and giving the crew and their guests a scare, and a fish story they can tell and retell for quite some time to come. See video of the Mako shark on Facebook: www.facebook.com/nzherald.co.nz/videos/631490012048438/.

 

If the shoe fits

With apologies to Mother Goose who allegedly wrote all those nursery rhymes, you don’t have to be an old woman to live in a shoe, says AMAC. The new owners of a three bedroom home shaped like a shoe in York County, Pennsylvania have put it up for short term rentals. The house was built in 1948 by Mahlon Haines who owned a chain of shoe stores and was known as the “Shoe Wizard.” Its three bedrooms are called the “Shoelace Space,” the “Instep Suite” and the “Ankle Abode.” See video of the Haines shoe house on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=jrRYQ3jJD_Y.

 

Longest beard chain

Facial hair is all the rage in Casper, Wyoming, according to AMAC. Just ask the judges at the Guinness Book of World Records, who say the citizens of that town broke the record for the longest beard chain. As the Casper Star Tribune described it, “To participate, competitors needed to sport a beard at least 8 inches in length. They stood side-by-side, one lengthy beard attached to the next until the chain stretched through the room. Once they were all clipped together, someone took a tape measure to determine the length of this cable of historic facial hair: 150 feet.” See video of the beard chain on YouTube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=iL1Bjw0fC38.

 

 

The Association of Mature American Citizens is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization representing membership in Washington, D.C. and in local congressional districts nationwide. More information is available on its website at www.amac.us.

 

 

 

Park It: Green Friday

By Ned MacKay

 

East Bay Regional Park District has declared November 25, the day after Thanksgiving, to be “Green Friday,” during which park entrance and activity fees are waived at all Regional Parks.

 

This includes fees for parking, dogs, horses, boat launching, fishing, and entrance to Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont. It doesn’t include state fees for fishing licenses, watercraft inspections or concessions such as the Tilden Park steam train and merry-go-round.

 

The idea is to encourage enjoyment of nature in its autumnal beauty with family and friends. Green Friday is part of the #OptOutside movement, started in 2015 by REI to promote healthy alternatives to post-Thanksgiving shopping.

 

 

Activities with a Green Friday theme are planned at several Regional Parks on November 25. All are free. (One requires advance registration.)

 

There’s a “Green Friday Frolic” from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley with naturalist Miriam Klingler. It’s a walk through the park in search of signs left by nocturnal wildlife. Big Break is at 69 Big Break Road in Oakley. For information, call (510) 544-3050.

 

Or you can join naturalist Katie Garchar on a Green Friday hike from 10:00 a.m. to 11:05 a.m. at Contra Loma Regional Park in Antioch. Enjoy the fall colors and look for birds around the reservoir. The minimum age for participation is six years, and parents must participate. Meet at the end of Frederickson Lane. For information, call (510) 544-2751.

 

A “Hike It Off” trek is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 12 noon on Green Friday at Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park in Oakland. It’s a 5¼-mile hilly excursion led by naturalist Michael Charnofsky, with creeks, redwoods, prairies and oak woodlands along the way. Meet at the Trudeau Center at 11500 Skyline Boulevard in Oakland. Heavy rain cancels the hike. For information, call (510) 544-3187.

 

Another chance for exercise is a “Burn the Turkey Hike” for ages six and up, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sunol Regional Wilderness near Sunol, with naturalist Erica Stephens. Registration is required for this hike, and it may fill up quickly.

 

The route is a three-mile round trip along Camp Ohlone Road to the Alameda Creek Overlook (formerly Little Yosemite). The guided portion of the hike ends there; hikers are welcome to bring snacks or lunch, and stay longer on their own. Children must be accompanied by adults. To register and obtain more information, visit www.ebparks.org or call (888) 327-2757 and select option 2.

 

Sunol naturalists also plan an easy, one-mile walk from 11 a.m. to 12 noon on Saturday, November 26. Stroll through the winter wilderness and see how the park transforms during cooler months. Bring drinking water, and wear weather-appropriate clothing.

 

And there’s more: Erica will host an astronomy session with the TriValley Stargazers from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, November 26 at the Sunol Visitor Center. This is also a drop-in program with no registration needed. All are welcome; parent participation is required.

 

Sunol Regional Wilderness is at the end of Geary Road off Calaveras Road about five miles south of I-680 and the town of Sunol. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. For information, call (510) 544-3243.

 

 

At Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch, the naturalists lead a two to three mile “Saturday Stroll” almost every week. There’s a stroll from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. on November 26 to check out the park’s plant and animal life. Or you can participate in a winter scavenger hunt from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Sunday, November 27 with naturalist Jessica Kauzer to look for signs of the changing season.

 

Both programs are free and registration is not needed. Minimum age is four and parents must participate. For either program, meet at the uppermost parking lot at the end of Somersville Road, about 3½ miles south of Highway 4.

 

Black Diamond Mines has a parking fee of $5 when the kiosk is attended. For information, call (510) 544-2750.

 

 

Next in the Hikes for Tykes series for parents and small children is a naturalist-led stroll from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on Tuesday, November 29 at Leona Canyon Regional Open Space Preserve in Oakland.

 

It’s drop-in, no registration required. Meet at the Canyon Oaks parking area off Keller Drive. It’s inside the condominium complex accessed at the intersection of Canyon Oaks and Campus Drive. For information, call Crab Cove at (510) 544-3187.

 

 

As is the case every year, South Park Drive at Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley is now closed to protect newts during their rainy season migration from fields to streams for purposes of procreation. Newts are a variety of salamander, five to six inches long, with brown backs and gold bellies. During the dry season they remain dormant under rocks and logs in woodlands and fields. When the rains come, they migrate to ponds and streams to reproduce.

 

At Tilden Regional Park, their migration route crosses South Park Drive on the way to Wildcat Creek. They move slowly, and if motor vehicles are allowed, the newts’ journey is potentially fatal. Park visitors can still walk and bicycle on South Park Drive during the closure period. But be advised: newts have a toxin on their skin to discourage predators. So keep your dogs away from them and don’t handle the newts yourself. Don’t collect newts for your home terrarium either. It’s illegal to remove plants or animals from Regional Parks.

 

Though South Park Drive is closed, you can still enter Tilden Regional Park from Grizzly Peak Boulevard via Golf Course Drive and Shasta Road.

 

 

These are just a few of the Park District’s programs. For a full program list, visit https://www.ebparks.org/calendar.

 

 

 

THE ROBOT REPORT

 

Meet Sparrow: Amazon’s new item-picking robot

By Brianna Wessling

 

Amazon has unveiled the latest addition to its collection of warehouse robots. Meet Sparrow, a robotic arm capable of picking individual products before they get packaged.

 

Unlike Amazon’s Robin and Cardinal robots, which pick and organize packages to be sent out for delivery, Sparrow can handle individual products. This isn’t a simple task in a place like an Amazon warehouse, where more than 100 million different items could need to be processed. Sparrow can pick 65% of them, according to the company. Sparrow can pick a variety of items, like DVDs, socks and stuffed animals, but struggled with items that have loose or complex packaging.

 

Amazon also recently announced another robot that its robotics team has been developing, an autonomous mobile robot for moving oversized items. This robot targets the 10% of items ordered from the Amazon Store that are too long, wide or unwieldy to fit in the company’s pods or on its conveyor belts.

 

These robots have the ability to understand the 3D structure of the world and how those structures distinguish each object in it. The robot can then understand how that object is going to behave based on its knowledge of the structure. This understanding, called semantic understanding or scene comprehension, along with LiDAR and camera data, allows the robot to be able to map its environment in real-time and make decisions on the fly.

 

While Amazon has been rolling out many new warehouse robots, it has also shut down other robotics activities. In October, news broke that the company is shutting down testing of its Scout home delivery robots.

 

Scout’s journey began in 2019 when Amazon began testing it in the Seattle area. The sidewalk robot was later rolled out in Southern California, Atlanta and Franklin, Tenn., where they completed deliveries accompanied by an Amazon Scout Ambassador during testing.

 

While Sparrow’s picking abilities are a first for Amazon, there are many similar systems from third-party players on the market. For example, RightHand Robotics’ RightPick System is built to pick and place individual items as part of fulfillment processes. RightPick uses an intelligent gripper, a vision system and control software to handle millions of different SKUs at a rate of up to 1,200 units per hour.

 

Other robotics companies, like Dexterity, Covariant, BRIGHTPICK and more have similar pick and place solutions. Amazon developing its own system internally certainly means these companies miss out on a massive potential customer, but it could also help to legitimize these types of systems within the industry.

 

 

Brianna Wessling is an Associate Editor, Robotics, WTWH Media. She can be reached at bwessling@wtwhmedia.com

 

 

 

 

Design a bird-friendly landscape

By Melinda Myers

Photos courtesy of Melindamyers.com

 

Temperature extremes, drought and storms take a toll on our landscapes. Sometimes a bit of pruning, proper care and patience is all that is needed to help plants recover. Other times, plants need replacing. It is always sad to lose a favorite plant. The memories, time and money invested are lost, but it presents an opportunity to grow something new.

 

Consider creating a bird-friendly landscape when selecting replacements for failing and dead plants. Working with nature is a great way to support birds without the use of feeders.

 

Look for seed, berry and nectar producing plants that attract songbirds. You will enjoy the color and motion these birds add to your landscape. Plus, 96% of terrestrial North American birds feed upon insects, helping you manage garden pests.

 

Plant bird-friendly flowers, shrubs, and trees in clusters whenever possible. This creates an impressive display in the landscape and allows birds to gather food more efficiently and waste less energy traveling between plants.

 

Select a variety of plants to ensure both seasonal and year-round birds have plenty of food. Include a mixture of plants that provide seeds, berries, or nectar from spring through fall. These plants are nature’s birdfeeders, eliminating the need to clean and fill traditional feeders.

 

Include native trees, shrubs, and flowers whenever they are suited to the growing conditions in your yard. Native plants, birds and insects have co-evolved over time, making them a great source of food and shelter for native birds. Audubon’s Native Plant Database provides lists of plants suited to your location.

 

Consider plants with year-round appeal. Evergreens provide screening and a backdrop for other plants and shelter for the birds. Junipers come in a variety of sizes and shapes and tolerate hot dry conditions once established. Choose hemlocks for those shadier locations. They require moist well-drained soil and shelter from winter wind and sun.

 

Deciduous trees and shrubs – those that lose their leaves in winter – can provide multiple seasons of beauty with flowers, fruit, fall color and interesting bark. Many of these also provide shelter and food for songbirds. Serviceberries have multiple seasons of beauty and produce edible fruit you and the birds will enjoy in June. Dogwoods, including red twig and pagoda, have flowers for pollinators and late summer fruit for the songbirds. Winterberry is an excellent source of winter food. You will need at least one male for every one to five female plants for pollination and fruit to form. Grow these in full sun to light shade and moist acidic soil.

 

Reduce the risk of injury and the inconvenience of accidentally knocking out power, cable or other utilities while making bird-friendly additions to the landscape. Contact Diggers Hotline at least three business days before you get started planting. Just call 811 or file a request online at https://call811.com/811-In-Your-State.They will contact all the appropriate companies who will mark the location of their underground utilities in the designated work area. August 11 has been declared 811 Day to remind everyone to call 811 prior to any digging project.

 

Your efforts now to welcome birds into your landscape are sure to provide much beauty and enjoyment for years to come.

 

 

Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the recently released Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2^nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD instant video series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and her website is www.MelindaMyers.com.

 

 

 

Alameda County Water District

Board of Directors Meeting

November 10, 2022

 

General Manager’s Reports

• Director of Water Resources Laura Hidas said a severe drought remains in effect, but local water supplies are similar to last year.
• Ed Stevenson discussed the potential acquisition of conservation easements on N3 Ranch property near Livermore to protect a portion of Alameda Creek watershed. Instead, the owner is suggesting an easement.

 

Consent Calendar

• Authorize agreement for fiberglass reinforced plastic maintenance services with Picon FRP.
• Authorize the purchase of two heavy duty vehicles from National Auto Fleet Group.
• Authorize an engineering survey and report on groundwater conditions in conjunction with the Replenishment Assessment Act.
• Amend the professional services agreement for JDE Upgrades and Technical Support.

 

 

President John Weed              Aye

Aziz Akbari                            Aye

James Gunther                        Aye

Judy Huang                             Aye

Paul Sethy                               Aye

 

 

 

Fremont Unified School District

November 9, 2022

 

Regular Agenda Items:

• Approve the 2023 Comprehensive Coordinated Early Intervening Services Plan. Passed.
• Authorize staff to reject all bids received for the Kennedy High School Modernization Project. Discussion only. Twenty individuals including Kennedy High School students, parents, and Fremont residents are in favor of the Kennedy High School Modernization Project.
• Authorize staff to purchase wireless technology infrastructure and devices for the middle school conversion projects. Passed.

 

Consent Calendar:

• Approve funding for a non-public school for 2022-2023 school year.
• Approve overnight study trips for Mission San Jose High School and Harvey Green Elementary.
• Approve new course proposals for junior high/middle school and high school.
• Authorize staff to purchase Chromebooks and storage carts.
• Approve the new position of Campus Supervisor at Centerville Junior High School.
• Approve recommended athletic coaches for Fall and Winter 2022.
• Approve the salary schedules for 2021-2022 and 2022-2023.

 

 

President Dianne Jones           Aye

Vivek Prasad                           Aye

Desrie Campbell                     Aye

Yajing Zhang                          Aye

Larry Sweeney                        Aye

Sissi Zhang                             Aye

 

 

 

Hayward City Council

November 15, 2022

 

Public Comments:

• South Hayward Now/Ahora Coalition expressed concerns about street food vendors selling food without permits.

 

Consent Calendar:

• Appropriate $150,000 for the Golden Oaks II Improvement Project.
• Authorize an agreement with ESRI for a Small Government Enterprise Agreement.
• Approve a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Hayward and Hayward Police Officers’ Association to revise scheduled salary increases.
• Accept the resignation of Ms. Elena Lepe from the Community Services Commission.
• Dissolve South Hayward BART Station Access Authority and authorize an intergovernmental agreement pertaining to parking and access near the South Hayward BART Station.

 

 

Mayor Barbara Halliday         Aye

Aisha Wahab                          Aye

Angela Andrews                     Aye

Sara Lamnin                           Aye

Elisa Marquez                         Aye

Mark Salinas                           Aye

Francisco Zermino                  Aye

 

 

 

Hayward Unified School District

November 9, 2022

 

Public Comments:

• Numerous Hayward High School staff spoke about flooding incidents at the gym.

 

Superintendent Comments:

• Interim Superintendent Chen Wu-Fernandez announced provision of free COVID test kits for families and publication of a new monthly newsletter for parents.

 

Consent Items:

• Appointments, changes of status, waivers, retirements, leaves of absence, and terminations.
• Notification of annual organizational meeting date and time.
• Overnight study trips.
• Non-Public School Placement.
• Single plan for student achievement.
• Memorandums of understanding with La Familia; Soccer Without Borders; and California Healthy Kids Survey.
• Approve contracts.
• Adopt Board of Education resolutions.

 

President April Oquenda        Aye

Peter Bufete                            Aye

Gabriel Chaparro                    Aye

Ken Rawdon                           Aye

Sara Prada                               Aye

 

 

 

Michael Hannon sweeps Newark mayoral election

By Jack Alcorn

 

Gaining more than 65% of votes cast, Mike Hannon was elected Mayor of the City of Newark in the November 8 election. A Castro Valley native, Mike married his wife Kathleen in 1978 and they have lived in Newark since 1983. Mike and Kathie have seven children and nine grandchildren. Hannon holds Bachelor of Art Degrees in Political Science and Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Portland.

 

Hannon said, “I appreciate that Newark voters have elected me to be the next Mayor of our great City of Newark. I have had the pleasure of serving our community as a Council Member these past 8 years, and am humbled by this opportunity and will proudly represent all residents as we continue to be a welcoming community.”

 

Mayor Hannon will focus on increasing affordable housing and improving public safety. Hannon wants to ensure that residents continue to receive timely responses to calls for service. He urged the use of technology to ensure that public safety personnel are not placed in harm’s way as they respond to calls.

 

“I will continue to promote programs and projects that make Newark a great place to live, work and raise a family.”

 

 

 

Hayward Gains New Mayor

By Jack Alcorn

 

Hayward City Council Member, Mark Salinas, was elected Mayor of Hayward November 8, 2022 in an uncontested race.The Mayor has been an Ethnic Studies and History Instructor at Chabot College since 2004. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in La Raza Studies and Master’s Degree in Educational Administration and Public Policy Studies from San Francisco State University.

 

A Hayward native, Salinas grew up in the Schafer Park neighborhood in South Hayward.

Mr. Salinas was first elected to the Hayward City Council in 2010 and re-elected in 2016 and 2020. His career includes extensive work with non-profit education and community organizations.

 

Mayor Salinas has worked on a variety of Hayward policies ranging from economic development and municipal budgets to housing and protection services. The Mayor stated that stopping sideshows and fully staffing the Fire Department are among his concerns for improving quality of life in Hayward. His top 3 priorities are:

• Keep families safe and healthy
• Housing for all families
• Grow Hayward's Economy

 

 

 

Newark City Council

November 10, 2022

 

Business Items:

• Authorize Group 4 Architecture Research + Planning, Inc. agreement for the development of a citywide facilities master plan. Motion passed.
• Authorize Gail M. Goldman Associates to update the 2001 Public Art Master Plan. Motion passed.
• Amend R3 Consulting Group agreement. to assist staff with Republic Services solid waste collection agreement extension. Motion passed.
• Approve $300,000 American Rescue Plan Act funding for the Newark Community Nonprofit Grant Program. Motion passed.

 

Consent Calendar:

• Reappoint Jeff Aguilar to Planning Commission.
• Accept public subdivision improvements: Bayshore Phase II, an 86-unit residential subdivision.
• Accept public subdivision improvements Bayshore Phase I, a 213-unit residential subdivision.
• Authorize Joint Powers Agreement with the City of Fremont for Paratransit Services.
• Authorize the annual Sun Ridge Systems, Inc. software support agreement.
• Authorize one full-time Associate Civil Engineer.
• Authorize a service agreement with Axero Holdings to provide annual cloud hosting.
• Authorize Police Department vehicle and mobile computer purchases.
• Authorize Universal Building Services and Supply Company janitorial services agreement.

 

Mayor Alan Nagy       Aye

Michael Hannon         Aye

Luis Freitas                 Aye

Sucy Collazo               Aye

Mike Bucci                 Aye

 

 

 

Santa Clara Valley Water District

Board of Directors Meeting

November 8, 2022

 

Drought Emergency Response and Water Supply Update:

• County remains in severe drought with eastern edge in extreme drought.
• Although recent rain are appreciated it has had no significant impact on reservoir storage.
• Above-average local rainfall and a healthy Sierra snowpack would be needed to get the area out of drought.
• San Jose broke it's all time temperature record in September

 

Consent Calendar:

• Set public hearing on the Engineer’s Report and Exemption Determination for the Coyote Pumping Plant Adjustable Speed Drive Replacement Project.
• Approve positions on federal legislation – Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act Amendments; and other legislation that may require urgent consideration for a position by the Board.

 

 

Chair John Varela       Aye

Barbara Keegan          Aye

Richard Santos            Aye

Linda LeZotte             Aye

Nai Hsueh                   Aye

Tony Estremera          Aye

Gary Kremen              Aye

 

 

 

San Leandro Unified School District

Board of Education Meeting

November 8, 2022

 

Consent/Action Items:

• Approve service agreement with Chargepoint for electric vehicle chargers.
• Approve the Superintendent's contract for the term of 2022- 2026.
• Authorize salary increase for managers and confidential employees.
• Approve outdoor education science camp for Madison Elementary School.
• Approve agreement between Pigeon Point Lighthouse and Roosevelt Elementary School.
• Approve Monroe Elementary sign installation.
• Approve purchase of Chromebooks for Para-Educator staff.
• Approve Advanced Systems Group quotation to expand the surveillance system at Roosevelt.
• Approve purchase of 50 Macbooks for staff.

 

Peter Oshinski             Aye

Trustee Tate                Aye

Liz Toledo                  Aye

Evelyn Gonzalez         Aye

Leo Sheridan               Aye

Diana Prola                 Aye

James Aguilar             Aye

 

 

 

Sunol Citizens’ Advisory Council

November 16, 2022

 

Monthly Reports and Updates:

• Alameda County Sheriff’s Office reported 6 calls for service; 20 stops (in Sunol).
• Alameda County Fire Department reported 23 calls for service (Station 14); 70% were EMS related; 3 fires.

 

Council and Staff Comments:

• Chair DeGrange stated that a construction detour for northbound Interstate 680 will start in December, and continue each night through April. Traffic will be diverted at Calaveras Road onto Bologna Way; 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Monday thru Friday.
• Brian Gassner, Caltrans, presented an overview of the proposed Caltrans bridge repair on I-680 at Alameda Creek.

 

Action Items

• Authorize teleconference meetings for the Sunol Citizens’ Advisory Council. Passed 3-0.
• 2023 meeting schedule (with revision to schedule December if needed). Passed 3-0.
• Mission Valley Rock request to revise their quarry permit continued to January meeting.

 

 

Chair Connie DeGrange         Aye

Gerry Beemiller                      Aye

Paul Dentinger                        Excused

Mary Conant                           Excused

Benjamin Harrison                 Aye

 

 

 

Santa Clara Valley Water District Director replaced by Rebecca Eisenberg

Submitted by Santa Clara Valley Water District

 

Ms. Eisenberg brings 30 years of experience in technology, finance and law to the Santa Clara County Water District (SCVWD) Board of Directors. The new Director earned a bachelor's degree from Stanford University in 1990 and a law degree from Harvard Law School in 1993.

 

Her predecessor, Gary Kremen, was District 7 Director for 8 years. Kremen resigned as Board Chair this spring after sexual harassment complaints and an independent investigation concluded that he bullied staff members over a three-year period.

 

SCVWD manages an integrated water resources system providing clean water, flood protection and streams management for county residents. Elected November 8th, Eisenberg pledged a focus on climate action and environmental justice.

 

Eisenberg said that residents deserve relief from ever-rising water bills and protection from climate events and floods. She stated community input and engagement as her top priority.

 

Director Eisenberg shared, “I grew up on the shores of Lake Michigan, and spent my summers in Wisconsin's Great North Woods. What so many of us took for granted as children is becoming out of reach for our children and their future generations. The time is now to change that direction.”

 

 

 

BART Police Log

Submitted by Les Mensinger and BART PD

 

Sunday, November 13

• At 7:15 p.m. a man identified by police as Jonathan Hicks, 36, of San Francisco was arrested at Milpitas station on suspicion of indecent exposure and lewd conduct. He was issued a prohibition order and booked into Santa Clara County Main Jail.

 

Monday, November 14

• At 5:57 p.m. a man identified by police as Tyrone Jackson, 50, of Hayward was arrested at South Hayward station on suspicion of battery and public intoxication. He was issued a prohibition order and booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

Wednesday, November 16

• At 11:02 p.m. a man identified by police as Carlos Mendez-Rivera, 45, of Oakland was arrested at Bay Fair station in San Leandro on suspicion of resisting or obstructing an officer and booked at Santa Rita Jail.

 

Thursday, November 17

• At 9:29 p.m. a man identified by police as Anthonio Riley, 28, was stopped by officers on suspicion of smoking inside a train car. A record check showed 11 outstanding felony and misdemeanor warrants. Riley was arrested and booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

 

 

Coffee with a Cop

Submitted by CHP Hayward

 

Even if they’re not coffee drinkers, East Bay residents are welcome to attend a Coffee with a Cop meeting with California Highway Patrol officers on Tuesday, November 22 to ask questions, voice concerns or even offer compliments to local CHP officers. Officers also will be ready to discuss recruiting and how people can apply to join the CHP.

 

The free three-hour event starts at 8:00 a.m. at Suju’s Coffee & Tea on Stevenson Blvd., Fremont.

 

 

Coffee with a Cop

Tuesday, Nov. 22

8 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Suju’s Coffee & Tea

4949 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 252-1727

 

 

 

Cookies, cocoa and cops

Submitted by San Leandro PD

 

What are the three “Cs” of the holiday season? If you guessed Cookies, Cocoa and Cops, go to the head of the class. With that idea in mind, San Leandro Police Department (SLPD) is holding a Holiday Cookies with the Cops party, and everyone is invited.

 

Among VIP guests at the Wednesday, December 7 gathering will be Santa Claus who will be available to pose for holiday photos with children. Guests are encouraged to bring a new unwrapped toy to donate to the Toy Drive for the SLPD Santa on Motors program and Davis Street Family Resource Center.

 

Family-friendly activities at the party will include cookie decorating and tasting; hot cocoa and holiday popcorn balls will also be served. For parents, San Leandro Police Chief Abdul Pridgen and SLPD staff members will be there for coffee and conversation. The party will be at the San Leandro Police Department on E. 14th Street.

 

 

Holiday Cookies with the Cops

Wednesday, Dec 7

5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

San Leandro Police Department

901 E. 14th St., San Leandro

(510) 577-3228

Admission is free

 

 

 

Shooting suspect charged with attempted murder

Submitted by Fremont Police Department

 

The suspect in a November 12 shooting on School Street near Bodily Avenue in Fremont is facing four felony charges, including attempted murder, according to the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office.

 

Zain Qureishi, 24, of Union City was arrested by Fremont Police after an attempted robbery at about 1:18 p.m. at Niles Community Park. According to police reports and the DA’s office, Qureishi had set up a meeting with the victim at the park, then attempted to rob the victim at gunpoint; a struggle ensued, and the victim was shot in the stomach. Qureishi then put the gun to the victim’s head before fleeing the scene. The victim was taken to a hospital for treatment and was expected to survive.

 

Witnesses told police Qureishi fled the scene in a vehicle southbound on Mission Boulevard. Fremont police officers located the vehicle and pursued it until Qureishi crashed into a building near Ohlone College. He was taken into custody and police recovered the gun used in the crime.

 

In addition to attempted murder, Qureishi is charged with attempted robbery, possession of an assault weapon and evading a police officer.

 

Fremont police are asking anyone who witnessed the shooting or who has surveillance video capturing any part of it contact Detective Brent Butcher at (510) 790-6956, or email bbutcher@fremont.gov.

 

 

 

Toy donations needed

Submitted by Alameda County Sheriff’s Office

 

It’s never too late to add fun and magic to a needy child’s holiday season. To help make that happen, Alameda County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) is asking the public to help with its annual toy drive.

 

Donations of new unwrapped toys are being accepted through Monday, December 5 at various East Bay locations. Toys for children ages 6 to 12 are most needed. Donations can be dropped off at these sites:

 

• Eden Township Substation, 15001 Foothill Blvd., San Leandro
• COP Shop, 1530 167th Ave., San Leandro
• AC Transit, 2425 E. 12th St., Oakland
• ACSO Headquarters, 1401 Lakeside Dr., 12th Floor, Oakland
• Rene Davidson Court House, 1225 Fallon St., Oakland
• Santa Rita Jail, 5323 Broder Blvd., Dublin
• Office of Emergency Services, 4985 Broder Blvd., Dublin
• East County Hall of Justice, 5151 Gleason Drive, Dublin

 

Tax deductible donations can also be made through the non-profit Alameda County Deputy Sheriff’s Activities League. All monetary donations will be used to buy toys for the toy drive. For details, call Deputy Ruben Pola at (510) 301-9684.

 

 

 

Union City Police Log

Submitted by Union City PD

 

Sunday, November 13

• At about 6:32 a.m. officers responded to a report about gunshots heard in the 4200 block of Lunar Way. Upon arrival, officers found a 25-year-old man with a single gunshot wound. He was taken to a hospital for treatment of a non-life-threatening injury. UCPD detectives are investigating the incident; anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Humberto Rodriguez at HumbertoR@unioncity.org or (510) 675-5282. Anonymous information can be left by calling the UCPD tip line at (510) 675-5207 or via email at tips@unioncity.org.

 

Wednesday, November 16

• Day shift officers responded to a report about people smoking marijuana inside a car in the area of Red Cedar and Torrey Pine lanes. Upon arrival, officers contacted four occupants inside the car. One of the occupants, a 17-year-old male, had a loaded fully automatic handgun. He was arrested on firearms charges and released to his mother.

 

 

 

Letter to the Editor

 

Flavored Tobacco Ban

 

On November 8, 2022, Californian citizens had the opportunity to defend or protest Proposition 31, the Flavored Tobacco Products Ban Referendum. While a “yes” would uphold the legislation that bans flavored tobacco products, a “no” would repeal the contested legislation. This proposition represents a significant measure that could make or break the health of several people across the state.

 

While San Francisco and a number of other cities have risen to defend their citizens with strong local enforcement of tobacco ordinances beyond SB 793, Union City has yet to join the train. The evident incongruence in flavored tobacco measures across the state has authorized Big Tobacco to still wield some power by destroying health, sinking communities, and severing the potential of youth living in cities with minimal to no anti-tobacco provisions. In perspective, a whopping 80% of youth who used tobacco confessed to starting with a flavored product. Hence, while Proposition 31 represents the union of health and safety for vulnerable populations by upholding Senate Bill 793, the state bill only represents a ban on flavored tobacco products and tobacco flavor enhancers with the exception of hookah tobacco, loose-leaf tobacco, and premium cigars.

 

The Great American Smokeout, a long-standing initiative by the American Cancer Society, occurred on November 17, 2022. This event enabled smokers across the country to take a step toward a healthier lifestyle by ceasing to smoke for a single day. Since its inception, the Great American Smokeout has aided many people in quitting and realizing the health detriments that stem from the very product. Communities and individuals have the opportunity to facilitate change in the name of this annual event– a life-changing opportunity.

 

In the post-election world, it is compulsory to note that California’s citizens have successfully upheld SB 793. Nevertheless, local enforcement on flavored tobacco products has yet to be implemented in Union City. Additional local provisions, as aforementioned, have lingered in discussions between Union City’s City Council and its Youth Commission for over a year– to no avail. It is expected that Union City fulfills its pledge in joining cities across the state that are going beyond SB 793 to protect its citizens. Lastly: Whether or not you participated in the Great American Smokeout this year, be a catalyst for change in the forthcoming years by starting your advocacy efforts now!

 

 

Fatima Khawaja

Union City

 

 

 

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

 

Rodeo Cruelties – authors needed

 

Here are four state rodeo bills in need of an author:

 

1. Amend California state rodeo law, Penal Code 596.7, so as to require onsite veterinarians at all rodeos and charreadas. The “on-call” vet option is not working and animals are suffering accordingly. Racetracks, horse shows and endurance rides all require on-site veterinary care, as does the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). So should all rodeos and charreadas.

 

2. Ban the Mexican charreada's brutal “steer tailing” event. Outlawed by the Los Angeles Dept. of Animal Regulation (1976), Alameda County (1993) and Contra Costa County (1994) and the State of Nebraska (2010). Even Cesar Chavez was an outspoken critic.

 

3. Ban “tie-down” calf roping, allowing “breakaway roping” only. The calves are mere babies, and terrified. Some veterinarians claim the calves are injured every time they are roped, thrown and tied, though the injuries may not be apparent to the untrained eye. A favorite quote from a PRCA calf roper: “Yeah, I accidentally killed and injured lots of calves when i was learning. I mean, I plain roped their heads off.”

 

4. Ban the rodeo's cruel non-sanctioned events: “wild cow milking,” children's “mutton busting” event, and all animal “scrambles,” as Alameda County has done.

 

Rodeo has little to do with ranching; it's mostly hype, a macho exercise in domination. It needs to end.

 

Eric Mills

ACTION FOR ANIMALS

Oakland

 

 

 

Alyssa Lim turns heads as a local golf star

By Andrew Joseph

Photos by Melanie Oh

 

Alyssa Lim is a 15-year-old self-represented sophomore golfer of James Logan High School (JLHS) who has earned several notable awards early in her arising career. Lim’s golf career began at the age of eight as a balance to her schoolwork, and has since become a big part of her life.

 

During her first year of competition in 2018, the Union City native tied for first place at the First Tee Tri-Pleasanton Junior Open as a fifth grader. She also earned second place in three other tournaments that year, including the Joe Mortara Championship for 11 and under golfers. In 2019 she won first place at the Castlewood Junior Championship and placed second at the Joe Mortara Championship. “I am trying to place at least in the top three in every tournament I play in,” said Lim.

 

In contrast to the situation of many other high school golfers, Lim’s school does not have a women’s golf team. When competing as part of a team, golfers have two chances to qualify for a tournament, both as a team and individually. If the team does poorly, golfers can still qualify as an individual if their personal marks are good. This is the advantage of being part of a team that Lim does not have.

 

“I have worked twice as hard competing as an individual golfer in North Coast Section (NCS) Division 2 because I don’t have a team to support and carry me,” added Lim. “It proves a lot about my ability and perseverance.”

 

Although JLHS doesn’t have a women’s golf team for Lim to compete with, she was able to secure an individual position through Eli Bagaoisan, her coach and athletic director at JLHS. He believes she is very talented and can achieve all she wants in this sport. “I have seen all the hard work and practice Alyssa has put in to become successful,” said Bagaoisan. “I secured a spot for her to compete at the high school level, but all the credit goes to her for the success she has achieved.”

 

Lim’s first taste of high school level competition was a small tournament held at Spring Valley Golf Course on October 10 in Milpitas where she competed with Irvington and American High Schools of Fremont.

 

Next, Lim earned third place in the Mission Valley Athletic League Tournament (MVAL) on October 17. She finished two strokes under par competing with approximately 35 players from six high school teams.

 

Therefore, qualifying Lim for the NCS Division 2 Tournament on October 24 at Rooster Run Golf Club in Petaluma. Lim earned first place competing against over 120 other golfers with an even par score at 72. This qualified her to move forward to the Division 1 competition.

 

Lim’s final tournament of this season was the NCS Division 1 Tournament on October 31, where she scored a 73 against 31 other schools. She didn’t qualify for the NorCal Championship this season, but she continues to make improvements.

 

“Winning first place at the MVAL championship proves that I can compete at the highest level,” added Lim. “I would like to score better at the NCS Division 1 tournament next season to qualify for the NorCal Championship.” Lim works closely with her swing instructor in an effort to continue to make strides in her career.

 

Adrian Lim, Alyssa’s father, takes great pride in the hard work that she has put in to achieve all of her recent success. “You are looking at a very proud parent”, said Mr. Lim. “The time in practice that she commits to in addition to her regular schoolwork and other activities is incredible.”

 

Bagaoisan has decided to make a golf team for boys starting spring 2023 because of Lim’s success this season, and she will be competing with them in the upcoming season. “There is definitely a possibility that in the future JLHS will create a women’s team with the interest Alyssa has brought to the sport,” said Bagaoisan.

 

Lim says she would like to continue to play golf after high school and her goal is to earn an athletic scholarship to play for Stanford University.

 

 

 

4th grader uses Heimlich to save fellow student from choking

Associated Press

 

Racine, Wis. Nov 12, 2022 (AP) – A 9-year-old elementary school student in Wisconsin may have saved the life of a classmate by performing the Heimlich maneuver on her as she choked on food, authorities said.

 

Essie Collier, a fourth grader at Racine's Fratt Elementary School, noticed one of her classmates was in distress during lunch Tuesday. Students were eating in a classroom because the lunchroom had been cleared out so residents could vote.

 

“I just saw that she was holding her neck, and I rushed up there as fast as I can,” Essie said.

 

Teacher Samantha Bradshaw said Essie wrapped her arms around the student and began performing the Heimlich. Her classmate's airway was cleared, and within seconds the girl was breathing fine.

 

“I have never seen a student react in that way before,” Bradshaw said.

 

Essie said that she learned the technique two years earlier from a YouTube instructional video, when she was 7, and that the lesson stayed with her.

 

The Racine Unified School Board plans to honor Essie at a board meeting in late November for her heroics.

 

 

 

Disneyland adds dolls in wheelchairs to ‘It's a Small World'

Associated Press

 

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP), Nov. 11 — Disneyland on Nov. 11 added two new characters in wheelchairs to its iconic “It's a Small World” attraction, saying it wanted a “more accurate representation of diversity around the world.”

 

The animatronic dolls are among some 300 costumed dolls representing singing children from many nations featured in the attraction. One is in the Latin American section of the boat ride and the other appears in the finale.

 

The dolls were unveiled on the first day of Disneyland's Christmas season. Each year, the park adds special holiday decor and Christmas carols to the ride, which opened at the Anaheim park in 1966 after appearing at the 1964-65 World's Fair in New York. The new characters will remain after the seasonal decor is removed sometime in January.

 

In a statement, Disneyland said it was part of an ongoing effort of enhancing attractions “to reflect more accurate representation of diversity around the world.” While the ride has special boats designed to accommodate guests who use wheelchairs, it was the first time in Disneyland's 67-year history that an attraction has included a character in a wheelchair.

 

It took more than six months to design and create the dolls, with collaboration by a Disney unit in charge of park accessibility. Erin Quintanilla, manager of accessibility for the Disneyland Resort, said the designs sought to combine authenticity with the colorful, cheerful style of the original standing dolls.

 

The chairs have details such as a push rim “so that the doll would be able to move through the story in a way that I move through the world,” Quintanilla said, according to CNN. “I feel seen. I feel represented. It's a monumental moment to have my community be in an attraction and represented,” said Quintanilla, who uses a wheelchair. “I teared up when I saw them in the attraction.”

 

Similar dolls will be added next year to “It's a Small World” rides at Walt Disney World in Florida and Disneyland Paris. Disney has added characters to “It's a Small World” in the past. A new “Spirit of America” scene added in 2009 included Woody and other “Toy Story” characters along with dolls in Native American dress.

 

 

 

1970s sandals worn by Steve Jobs auctioned for $218K

Associated Press

 

LOS ANGELES (AP), Nov. 14 — The California house where Steve Jobs co-founded Apple is a historical site, and now the sandals he wore while pacing its floors have been sold for nearly $220,000, according to an auction house.

 

The “well used” brown suede Birkenstocks dating to the mid-1970s set a record for the highest price ever paid for a pair of sandals, Julien's Auctions said on Nov. 13. “The cork and jute footbed retains the imprint of Steve Jobs' feet, which had been shaped after years of use,” the auction house said in the listing on its website.

 

The sandals were expected to bring $60,000, but the final sale price with an accompanying NFT was $218,750, Julien's said. The buyer was not named.

 

Jobs and Steve Wozniak co-founded Apple in 1976 at Jobs' parents' house in Los Altos, California. In 2013, the property was named a historic landmark by the Los Altos Historical Commission. Jobs died in 2011 from complications of pancreatic cancer.

 

 

 

Musk says he expects to find a new Twitter CEO ‘over time’

By Michelle Chapman

Associated Press Business Writer

 

NEW YORK (AP), Nov. 16 — Billionaire Elon Musk, who just took over as the chief executive at Twitter after buying the company, said he does not want to be the CEO of any company.

 

Musk took the witness stand Nov. 16 in a Delaware court to defend himself in a shareholder lawsuit challenging a compensation package he was awarded by Tesla's board of directors that is potentially worth more than $55 billion.

 

While testifying, Musk said “I expect to reduce my time at Twitter and find somebody else to run Twitter over time,” according to multiple media reports.

 

Overnight, Musk sent an email to the remaining staff at Twitter, saying that it is a software and servers company at its heart and he asked employees to decide by the evening of Nov. 17 if they want to remain a part of the business. Musk wrote that employees “will need to be extremely hardcore” to build “a breakthrough Twitter 2.0” and that long hours at high intensity will be needed for success.

 

Musk, who also heads Tesla and SpaceX, said Twitter will be much more engineering-driven, with employees who write “great code” comprising the majority of the team.

 

The billionaire, who completed the $44 billion takeover of the San Francisco company in late October, fired much of its full-time workforce by email early this month and is expected to eliminate an untold number of contract jobs for those responsible for fighting misinformation and other harmful content. A number of engineers also said on Twitter they were fired this week after saying something critical of Musk, either publicly on Twitter or on an internal messaging board for Twitter employees.

 

Musk has vowed to ease restrictions on what users can say on the platform. While he has been criticized from almost all sides for potentially opening the gates at Twitter to hate and other harmful speech, he has tried to reassure advertisers, which drive most of the social platform's revenue, that any rule changes will not damage their brands by associating them with harmful content.

 

Musk has also indicated that he plans to resume Twitter's premium service — which grants blue-check “verification” labels to anyone willing to pay $8 a month — on November 29. The billionaire said in a tweet that the relaunch would take place later this month in an effort to make sure the service is “rock solid.”

 

Musk asked workers to click yes on a link provided in the email if they want to be part of the “new Twitter.” He said that employees had until 5 p.m. Eastern on Nov. 17 to reply to the link. Employees who don't reply by that time will receive three months of severance, according to the email.

 

“Whatever decision you make, thank you for your efforts to make Twitter successful,” Musk wrote.

 

 

AP Technology Reporter Matt O'Brien contributed to this report from Rhode Island. AP Writer Randall Chase contributed from Delaware.

 

 

 

Boutique Calendar

 

Mistletoe Madness

Saturday, Nov 26

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

70+ booths from local crafters and artisans

Marina Community Center

15301 Wicks Blvd., San Leandro

www.mistletoemadness.net

 

“Believe” Holiday Boutique

Saturday, Dec 3

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

70 artists & crafters, bake sale

American High School

36300 Fremont Blvd., Fremont

(Enter parking lot off Alder Ave.)

https://ahsboutique.weebly.com/

 

Oakland Cottage Industry

Saturday, Dec 3

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

30 local artist and makers

Park Boulevard Presbyterian Church

4101 Park Blvd., Oakland

www.oaklandcottageindustry.com

 

Pruma Center’s First Craft Fair

Saturday, Dec 3

5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Pruma Center

616 E St., Union City

 

The Menagerie Oddities and Curiosities Holiday Market

Saturday, Dec 3 – Sunday, Dec 4

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

No one does Christmas, the occult, and the odd like Victorians

Winchester Mystery House

525 South Winchester Blvd., San Jose

www.themenagerieodditiesmarket.com

Tickets: $5

 

Holiday Fest

Sunday, Dec 4

11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

25 local artists, authors, and crafters, including Judaica items

Temple Israel

3183 Mecartney Rd., Alameda (Harbor Bay Isle)

www.templeisraelalameda.org

 

 

 

IAD 112222

Continuing Events:

 

First Fridays

Chabot Space $

6:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Telescope viewings and after-hours access to exhibits

Chabot Space and Science Center

10000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland

(510) 336-7300

chabotspace.org

 

First Thursdays

Plethos Comedy Lab $

8:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Ever-changing lineup of Bay Area comics (18+)

Castro Valley Market Place

3295 Castro Valley Blvd, Castro Valley

(510) 901-1001

castrovalleymarketplace.com plethos.org

 

First Wednesdays

Talkin' Dirt

7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Online Gathering of Gardeners

Local Ecology and Agriculture Fremont (LEAF)

6501 Niles Blvd, Fremont

fremontleaf.org/talkindirt

 

Fridays & Saturdays

Investigating Space $

7:30 pm – 10:30 pm

Explore stars, planets and more through Chabot’s historic telescopes

Chabot Space and Science Center

10000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland

(510) 336-7300

chabotspace.org

 

Saturdays

Laugh Track City $

8:00 pm

Improvised games and scenes

(Please show proof of vaccination)

Made Up Theatre

4000 Bay St suite B, Fremont

(510) 573-3633

madeuptheatre.com

 

Saturdays & Sundays

Nectar Garden Exploration

11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Discover native pollinators and plants

Coyote Hills Visitors Center

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd, Fremont

(510) 544-3220

bit.ly/3UGfdGr

 

Fridays

Knitting Class in Mandarin

9:45 am – 10:45 am

Learn about knitting

Age Well Center at South Fremont

47111 Mission Falls Ct, Fremont

(510) 742-7529

bit.ly/3rAEdSC

 

Fridays

Fiber Arts R$

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Learn knitted arts

Age Well Center at South Fremont

47111 Mission Falls Ct, Fremont

(510) 742-7529

bit.ly/3rAEdSC

 

Mondays

Advanced Math + Science Tutoring

5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Free high school and college-level tutoring

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave, Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

aclibrary.org

 

Saturdays & Sundays

Discovery On Demand

10:30 am – 3:30 pm

Explore, investigate and craft to satisfy your natural curiosities

Coyote Hills Visitors Center

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd, Fremont

(510) 544-3220

bit.ly/3UGfdGr

 

Saturdays – Monday

Open Recreation Swim “Water Park” In Silliman $

12:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Activity pool, water slides, lazy river

Silliman Activity and Family Aquatic Center

6800 Mowry Ave, Newark

(510) 578-4620

bit.ly/3rYybve

 

Second Saturday

Lazy Saturdays?

9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Join members of LEAF and tackle various projects

Local Ecology and Agriculture Fremont (LEAF)

6501 Niles Blvd, Fremont

fremontleaf.org/talkindirt

volunteer@fremontleaf.org

 

Second Tuesdays

The Page Turners

7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Book discussion for facilitated by librarian Chris Selig

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave, Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

aclibrary.org

 

Thursdays

Chair Yoga R

10:00 am – 11:00 am

Consists of breathing and stretching techniques

Age Well Center at South Fremont

47111 Mission Falls Ct, Fremont

(510) 742-7529

bit.ly/3rAEdSC

 

Thursdays

International Folk Dancing in Chinese R$

11:30 am – 12:50 pm

Age Well Center at South Fremont

47111 Mission Falls Ct, Fremont

(510) 742-7529

bit.ly/3rAEdSC

 

Tuesdays

International Folk Dancing in English R$

1:30 pm – 2:50 pm

Age Well Center at South Fremont

47111 Mission Falls Ct, Fremont

(510) 742-7529

bit.ly/3rAEdSC

 

Tuesdays

Practice Your English–Tuesday Chat! R

4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Improve your English by talking with native speakers

Online event

bit.ly/3TH2keU

jliu@aclibrary.org

 

Sundays, November 6 – December 18

Snake talk $

2:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Learn important role snakes play in the ecosystem

Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center

1895 Geary Rd, Sunol

(510) 544-3245

ebparks.org/parks/Sunol

 

Thursdays, November 3 – December 8

Calling all Carolers! R

7:15 pm

Sing with Bay Area Showcase Chorus

Mount Olive Ministries

1989 E Calaveras Blvd, Milpitas

(408) 973-1555

mt-olive.org singharmony.org

info@singharmony.org

 

Thursday – Saturday, November 10 – December 17

Exhibit: Kristin Lindseth’s “San Ardo”

12:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Symbolic works exploring the ideas and issues of displacement and hope

Olive Hyde Art Gallery

123 Washington Blvd, Fremont

(510) 791-4357

olivehydeartguild.org

 

Saturdays, November 12 – February 4

13 Weekly (Grief Share) sessions R

9:00 am – 10:30 am

Prince of peace church

38451 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

(510) 793-3366

popfremont.org

 

Friday – Wednesday, November 18, – January 4

Travelling Exhibit “We Are Not Strangers Here”

African American Histories in Rural California

Milpitas Public Library

160 N Main St, Milpitas

(408) 262-1171

sccld.org

 

Sunday – Monday, November 27 – December 5

Tandem Fundraiser

12:00 pm

Contribute to 22 % of your sales to Tandem, Partners in early learning by mentioning Tandem on your

next purchases.

Books on B

1014 B street, Hayward

(510) 538-3943

booksonb.com

 

Tuesdays, October 11 – December 27

Needle Time

6:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Bring your latest sewing, or knitting project to craft,

San Lorenzo Library

395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo

(510) 284-0640

aclibrary.org/locations/SLZ

 

Second Thursdays, September 8 – June 9

Café Dad

6:00 pm

Father and father figures to obtain resources,

HUSD Parent Resource Center Hub

24823 Soto Rd, Hayward

(510) 723-3857

husd.us/hub

 

 

Upcoming Event:

 

 

Friday – Tuesday, November 18 – November 22

Food baskets pick up R

Thanksgiving ingredients ready for pickup, activity packs

2:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Select pick up date at www.lov.org

Grocery Outlet

36601 Newark Blvd, Newark

(510) 793-5683

www.lov.org

 

Tuesday, November 22

Built It

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Join for a creative construction with blocks, Legos, and more. Masks required for 2 years +

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave, Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

aclibrary.org

 

Tuesday, November 22

Learn Through Play (Special Need Friendly)

4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Get kids to practice fine and gross motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and social skill

Newark Public Library

37055 Newark Blvd, Newark

(510) 284-0675

bit.ly/3DyAJaM

 

Tuesday, November 22

Friendsgiving DIY Beading

3:30 pm – 5:45 pm

Create your own custom wrist-band/bracelet

San Lorenzo Library

395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo

(510) 284-0640

aclibrary.org/locations/SLZ

 

Tuesday, November 22

Free Holiday Dinner

4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

22nd Annual Taiwanese free Thanksgiving dinner

Centerville Presbyterian Church

4360 Central Ave, Fremont

(510) 793-3575

cpcfremont.org Jckh3402@gmail.com

 

Tuesday, November 22

Family Terrarium Workshop

4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Learn to make a happy and healthy home for your plant

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont

(510) 745-1400

aclibrary.org/locations/FRM

 

Wednesday, November 23

Game Day

1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Friendly, family competition in board and video games. Mask required for 2 years +

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave, Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

aclibrary.org

 

Wednesday, November 23

Thanksgiving Food Distribution by TCV

2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Pre-packaged Thanksgiving food boxes for the first 80 families in attendance

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont

(510) 745-1400

aclibrary.org/locations/FRM

 

Wednesday, November 23

Family Storytime

10:30 am

Stories, songs and movement activities for toddlers and preschoolers

Union City Library

34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd, Union City

(510) 745-1464

aclibrary.org/locations/UCY

 

Friday, November 25

Yarn About Wool

11:00 am – 12:30 pm

Visit our fuzzy friends and discover the wonder of wool

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd, Fremont

(888) 327-2757

ebparks.org/parks/Ardenwood

 

Friday, November 25

Family Starlight Workshop $

5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Festive family workshop about the stars, complimentary view and refreshments

Chabot Space and Science Center

10000 Skyline Blvd, Oakland

(510) 336-7300

chabotspace.org

 

Friday, November 25

Burn the Turkey Hike R

10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Guided 3-mile hike along Camp Ohlone Road

Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center

1895 Geary Rd, Sunol

(510) 544-3245

ebparks.org/parks/Sunol

 

Friday, November 25

Rabbit Rendezvous

10:30 am – 11:00 am

Learn why rabbits are great hoppers and how they their ears to sense danger

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd, Fremont

(888) 327-2757

ebparks.org/parks/Ardenwood

 

Friday, November 25

Newark Comedy Night R

8:00 pm

Doors open: 7:30 pm

Swiss Park

5911 Mowry Ave, Newark

(510) 936-2523

swissparknewark.com

www.aelplergruppe.com

 

Saturday, November 26

Corn Husk Dolls

1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

Craft your own folk-art doll of colorful husks

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd, Fremont

(888) 327-2757

ebparks.org/parks/Ardenwood

 

Saturday, November 26

Nomad at The Bistro $

3:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Solo Performance by Dave “Nomad” Miller

The Bistro

1001 B Street, Hayward

(510) 833-3470

the-bistro.com

 

Saturday, November 26

Wreath Making at Shinn House

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Shinn Historical Park and Arboretum

1251 Peralta Blvd, Fremont

(510) 790-5541

bit.ly/3gNjuJj

 

Saturday, November 26

Wake up Farm

10:30 am – 11:00 am

Prepare morning snacks for the farm animals

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd, Fremont

(888) 327-2757

ebparks.org/parks/Ardenwood

 

Saturday, November 26

Sunol Stroll

11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Stroll the wintery wilderness

Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center

1895 Geary Rd, Sunol

(510) 544-3245

ebparks.org/parks/Sunol

 

Saturday, November 26

Quarry Turkey 2022 R

1/2 Marathon, 10K, 5K, & The Little Turkeys Run

8:00 am – Half Marathon; 8:20 am – 10k; 8:40 am – 5k

Quarry Lakes Regional Park

2100 Isherwood Way, Fremont

(510) 544-3130

https://bit.ly/3XdmMGr

racedirector@brazenracing.com

 

Saturday, November 26

Stargazing In Sunol

5:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Gaze up at the night sky with TriValley Stargazers

Sunol Regional Wilderness Visitor Center

1895 Geary Rd, Sunol

(510) 544-3245

ebparks.org/parks/sunol

 

Saturday, November 26

FIFA World Cup Viewing Event

11:00 am – 1:00 pm

Watch Argentina vs. Mexico

Newark Public Library

37055 Newark Blvd, Newark

(510) 284-0675

bit.ly/3DyAJaM

 

Saturday, November 26

Science Saturday

2:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Pop-up discovery museum focusing on forces

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave, Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

aclibrary.org

 

Saturday, November 26

Birds of the farm

8:00 am – 9:30 am

Explore the fields, gardens and forests to see fall migratory birds

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd, Fremont

(888) 327-2757

ebparks.org/parks/Ardenwood

 

Friday, November 25

Meet Author Alec Nevala-Lee

11:00 am – 12:00 pm

Book signing event for “Inventor of the Future”

Books on B

1014 B street, Hayward

(510) 538-3943

booksonb.com

 

Sunday, November 27

Get Your Groove On

1:30 pm – 2:30 pm

Create music using spoons, pots, bells and more

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd, Fremont

(888) 327-2757

ebparks.org/parks/Ardenwood

 

Sunday, November 27

Birding for Beginners

9:00 am – 10:30 am

Learn about local birds through observation. Bring your binoculars (7+ years)

Coyote Hills Visitors Center

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd, Fremont

(510) 544-3220

bit.ly/3UGfdGr

 

Sunday, November 27

Wool that's to dye for!

11:00 am – 12:30 pm

Unravel the ancient mysteries of dyeing yarn

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd, Fremont

(888) 327-2757

ebparks.org/parks/ardenwood

 

Monday, November 28

Exploring Sciences – Elementary Series R

5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

Chemistry: The Building Blocks of Our World

Zoom link will be provided via e-mail

bit.ly/3X15OLk

 

Tuesday, November 29

Film Night

6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Special screening of classic Hollywood film “Sunset Boulevard”

Fukaya Room A & B

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd, Fremont

(510) 745-1400

aclibrary.org/locations/FRM

 

Tuesday, November 29

Special Pride Embroidery Needle time

6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Special edition of Needle Time crafting hour

San Lorenzo Library

395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo

(510) 284-0640

aclibrary.org/locations/SLZ

 

Tuesday, November 29

CalKIDS Live Webinars R

6:30 pm – 8:30 pm

Get free money for college. Bring your kids SSID/LRN number

Via zoom

(link will be sent by mail)

Alameda County Office of Education

313 West Winton Ave, Hayward

(510) 887-0152

bit.ly/3tyP1BZ; acoe.org

calkids.org

 

 

 

Tree Lighting Calendar

 

Niles Festival of Lights Parade

Friday, Nov 25

6 p.m. Tree Lighting

6:30 p.m. Parade starts

Downtown Niles

Niles Blvd., from G St. to J St., Fremont

(510) 857-6512

www.nilesfestivaloflightsparade.org

 

Tree Lighting Ceremony

Thursday, Dec 1

7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Milpitas Civic Center Plaza

455 E. Calaveras Blvd., Milpitas

(408) 586-3210

www.milpitas.gov

 

Bright up the Night

Friday, Dec 2

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Laser light shows set to holiday music, selfies with Santa and other characters

Courtyard near Old Navy, Fremont Hub

Argonaut Way & Mowry Ave.

fremonthub.shopkimco.com

 

It’s a Wonderful Night

Friday, Dec 2

5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Kids’ crafts, holiday drone show, holiday market, movies, Santa and Mrs. Claus

Estudillo Plaza

Estudillo Ave., between E 14th St., and Washington Ave., San Leandro

(510) 281-0703

downtownsanleandro.com/events/its-a-wonderful-night/

 

Hayward Light up the Season

Saturday, Dec 3

5 p.m.

Tree lighting, toy drive, bookmobile, and more

City Hall Plaza

777 B St., Hayward

https://www.hayward-ca.gov/residents/arts-leisure/light-up-the-season

 

Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting

Saturday, Dec 3

6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Carolers, holiday treat, visit with Santa and elves

Courtyard near Market Broiler

43406 Christy St., Fremont

https://pacificcommons.com/

 

Newark Tree Lighting

Monday, Dec 5

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

7 p.m.: Tree Lighting

Games, crafts, hot cocoa & cookies, photobooth, toy drive

Newark Civic Center

37101 Newark Blvd., Newark

www.newark.org

 

Holiday Tree Lighting with Santa & Mrs. Claus

Wednesday, Dec 7

5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Holiday cookies, carolers, entertainment, crafts, and “Signing” Santa! Bring your phone/camera for pictures

Washington West, Anderson Auditorium

2500 Mowry Ave., Fremont

(510) 818-7350

www.whhs.com/upcomingevents

 

Mission San Jose Tree Lighting Ceremony

Saturday, Dec 10

5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Live band, cookies, hot chocolate. Fremont Fire Station 4 will deliver Santa Claus!

Old School Business Center

43571 Mission Blvd., Fremont

(Next to Subway Sandwiches)

www.msjchamber.org