Make a new family tradition at Bay Philharmonic’s A Holiday Spectacular
By Hugo Vera
Photos Courtesy of Bay Philharmonic
With the holidays quickly approaching, many communities are coming together to commemorate the winter festivities and to welcome in the new year. One organization taking part is Bay Philharmonic, which will be hosting its holiday concert on the afternoon of Sunday, December 17, at the Chabot College Performing Arts Center.
Titled, “A Holiday Spectacular,” the show intends to live up to its name as it will feature a plethora of musical and cultural performances including (but not limited to) traditional Christmas ballads, Chanukah songs, Mexican folklóricodance, and vocals from the San Francisco Girls Chorus.
“We are pulling out all the bells and whistles to bring you an extraordinary celebration you won’t soon forget,” says Bay Philharmonic Artistic Director and Conductor Jung-Ho Pak. “With a tremendous variety in music from pop to classical, dancing from ballet to cultural and multi-media visuals, the entire family will be highly entertained and want to make A Holiday Spectacular their annual tradition.”
The concert will also feature a performance from principal oboist Anqi Zhou. A native of Qingdao, China, Zhou completed her undergraduate musical studies at the Colburn Conservatory of Music in Los Angeles before appearing as a guest oboist in the Louisville Orchestra, the Miami-based New World Symphony and the San Francisco Symphony.
“Growing up I played the piano, but as I grew up I went on an instrument hunt and remembered hearing the oboe in Swan Lake,” reflects Zhou on her affinity for the oboe. “From there, I knew that this instrument, which is not as common as say a piano or a violin, was for me.”
“This will be my first time performing [with Bay Philharmonic] and what I love about the Bay Area is how appreciative the people are to all kinds of music as well as the loving and festive vibe here,” adds Zhou. “It will be so satisfying to see the audience’s reactions as they become more delighted and energized by what will not only be a concert for the ears but a concert for the eyes.”
In addition to Zhou’s oboe solos, the concert will establish the atmosphere by having a pre-show harp ensemble (led by Cleveland Institute of Music alum Constance Koo), which will be playing in the lobby one hour before the show as well as during intermission.
“The harp is typically a soloist instrument so to play it live with other people is an exciting collaboration and I have to thank all of my students and volunteers who will help make this possible,” states Koo.
While synthesized and even artificial intelligence (AI) produced music is becoming increasingly prevalent in the musical mainstream, Woo urges locals to reconnect with the music-making experience by attending shows such as A Holiday Spectacular.
“As humans we’re wired to be communal and one thing we can’t neglect is to be in a community,” adds Koo. “When you attend this concert, you are experiencing live music with other people in a way you wouldn't be able to do just by streaming music or watching TV.”
Bay Philharmonic's A Holiday Spectacular
Sunday, Dec 17
2 p.m. Pre-show harp music in lobby
3 p.m. Concert
Chabot College Performing Arts Center
25555 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
Tickets: $25 – $67 (Student ticket $10)
Las Posadas Celebrations
Submitted by Arathi Satish
“Las Posadas,” a Christmas-time tradition, has taken place in Mission San Jose since 1982. Fremont Cultural Arts Council (FCAC), Old Mission Jose, Tri-City Voice and Mission San Jose Chamber of Commerce are co-sponsoring this annual holiday musical event this year.
During the last few years, the nine-day festival, which has always been held in-person, survived as a zoom event with entertainment by actors and singers who live or work in Fremont. This year, all evenings will be in person, and select evenings will also be Zoomed. As Julie Gilson, President, FCAC pointed out, “We are happy to see the return of live, in-person performances by our talented local artists. This is one way the FCAC fulfills its mission to bring arts to our community. Art unites us, increases our emotional wellbeing, and enriches our daily lives.”
Knuti VanHoven, who has been instrumental in organizing this event for the past few years, said, “Every year people tell me that Las Posadas is the way they celebrate Christmas. We thought COVID might be the end, but during our Zoom Las Posadas from 2020 to 2022, our audiences actually grew. It was and is a place for anyone, regardless of background, to come (in person or online) and share the warmth of the season with others.”
Nancy and Gary Dorighi, Mission Curators have helped to coordinate and conduct this event over the past few years. The Mission was dedicated in 1797 to St. Joseph, honoring him as guardian of the Holy Family starting with their journey to Bethlehem. Gary Dorighi said, “We are thrilled this year to bring back the ‘in-person’ experience for all the nine evenings. So, join us on the front porch of the Mission Museum each evening. We’ll sing Christmas carols on our way to one of our venues, many new this year. And we’ll enjoy yuletide entertainment and refreshments, and most of all, the sense of community embodied by the season.”
Each night, a family is selected to carry the hand-carved statue of Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus to the venue. Once they arrive, they ask for shelter. The host turns them away, but eventually welcomes them in. Each night, a unique entertainment program lasting 30 to 45 minutes is arranged at the venue by FCAC, and the evening ends with refreshments provided by the host business. On the final night, Mission San Jose invites everyone to the Old Mission Church to enjoy a program of Christmas carols performed live on their Rosales organ, followed by a piñata on the Museum porch for the children. Nancy Dorighi said, “Las Posadas participants will be impressed by the beautiful interior of the Mission Church which was patterned after the early 1800s adobe church. Equally impressive is how the space enriches the music. We are happy to share this venue on two nights this year, December 15th and 23rd.”
Venkat Raman, member of Center Stage Singers said, “Right from the beginning my family felt warmly welcomed by the community and accepted by everyone when we sang Christmas carols and hymns. The best part was seeing the happiness on people’s faces as they were listening to us. Ever since that first performance, our holiday season has revolved around Las Posadas.” Venkat’s wife Praveena Raman added, “Besides, it is fun, free, and everyone is invited. This year we’re joining the Keating Family Sing-along at Tavares Realty. Lyric sheets are provided. Join us!”
Las Posadas 2023 Program
- Friday, Dec 15 – Kristy Del Rio & her Merry Band. (Christmas songs and carols at Mission San Jose Church)
- Saturday, Dec 16 – St. Joseph’s School Children's Choir at St Joseph’s School.
- Sunday, Dec 17 – Dixie By the Bay at Olive Hyde Art Gallery, hosted by the Mission Barber. (Christmas jazz)
- Monday, Dec 18 – Santa’s Tallest Elves, at Washington Township Museum of Local History.
- Tuesday, Dec 19 – Palm Hill Bell Choir of the First United Methodist Church of Fremont, under direction of Roberta Marton and Al Minard, at Better Homes & Gardens Realty.
- Wednesday, Dec 20 – Dominican Sisters School of Music Students and Faculty at Dominican Sisters Conference Center.
- Thursday, Dec 21 – The Keatings & Friends, hosted by Tavares Realty. (Carols and pop classics sing-along. Lyrics will be provided.)
- Friday, Dec 22 – The Peak Performers of Mission Peak Unitarian Universalist Congregation, directed by Von Bringhurst, at the Sisters of the Holy Family Meeting Hall. (Songs of the Season of Light and Life)
- Saturday, Dec 23 – Mission San Jose Church organist Ron McKean and cantor Debbie Rossetto perform Christmas favorites. (followed by refreshments on the Mission porch and a piñata for children)
Las Posadas
Friday, Dec 15 – Saturday, Dec 23
Gathering Time: 6:00 p.m.
Old Mission San Jose Museum
43300 Mission Blvd., Fremont
Select evenings live on Zoom
Email: LasPosadasFCAC@earthlink.net
www.fremontculturalartscouncil.org
Newark Symphonic Winds
Submitted by Jim Carter
Newark Symphonic Winds (NSW), under the superb direction of Mr. Richard Wong, will be presenting our 2023 Free Holiday Concert and Sing-along on Saturday, December 16.
The symphony will perform many new and exciting compositions. We’ll begin our musical journey by swinging into Christmas with James Ployhar’s arrangement, “Swingin’ into Christmas.” We’ll next feature our magnificent brass section by performing “A Canadian Brass Christmas,” arranged by Luther Henderson. Our next piece is the inspiring “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring,” by Johann Sebastian Bach, which is followed by “Fanfare and Hark! the Herald Angels Sing,” arranged by Chip Davis.
We’ll end the first half of our performance with all the children up front at the stage to listen to our emeritus Mayor—the Most Honorable Dave Smith—reading Newell Long’s “'Twas the Night before Christmas.” After Smith’s reading, we’ll have our traditional visit by Santa and Mrs. Claus. So be certain to bring the kids and grandkids—they’ll love getting a chance to talk with Santa just prior to Christmas!
After intermission, we’ll begin our second half featuring the wonderful music of the Newark Saxophone Quartet—beginning with a short riff honoring Hanukkah and then transitioning to a little bit of saxophone holiday jazz. The quartet is comprised of Peter Greeff on baritone saxophone, Steve Leitner on tenor, Andy Ehling on alto, and Jim Carter on soprano.
Once the symphony returns to the stage, we’ll perform “The Eighth Candle,” by Steve Reisteter. Next will be a very traditional piece arranged by Claude Smith, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” We’ll continue with “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” arranged by John Moss and originally composed by Eddie Pola and George Wyle.
Then it will be your turn to take part in our annual Holiday performance and join in our sing-along. This year the sing-along will be led by Joan Carter, our wonderful announcer.
We’ll end our performance with the tune all of you most want to hear during this season—our traditional rendition of the most wonderful holiday piece ever composed: “Sleigh Ride,” by the great Leroy Anderson.
We are once again extremely fortunate to have this performance sponsored by the Fremont Bank Foundation. As always, the concert is free-of-charge, and no tickets are necessary. Simply enjoy the evening with us—and be certain to bring all your friends. In that we have experienced full-house attendance at our performances, you might want to plan on arriving earlier than 7 p.m. to get the seating you prefer.
Newark Symphonic Winds Holiday Concert
Saturday, Dec 16
7 p.m.
Newark Memorial High School Theatre
39375 Cedar Blvd., Newark
(510) 552-7186
BART gave an architect “a sense of what was possible” for urban design
Submitted by Bay Area Rapid Transit District
Howard Wong was born and raised in San Francisco, and like many locals, he depended on public transportation to travel. He remembers well the “old, shaky streetcars and rickety buses” that ferried citizens around the region, and so too, he remembers that it “wasn’t always a pleasant experience.” A few years after BART opened, he graduated with a master's degree in architecture and design from UC Berkeley. In the program, Wong and his classmates studied the new BART system – its design, its construction, its principles. “It was the biggest project around,” he said. “And it gave you a sense of what was possible.” When BART first opened in 1972, Wong, who was living in Berkeley, used it mostly to travel around the East Bay. That is, until the Transbay Tube opened in 1974, and he took a joy ride from Berkeley into San Francisco. “Going through the tunnel for the first time was quite an experience,” he said. “Your ears pop, and it feels like you’re rolling really fast. It gave you the sense of entering this new Space Age era of transportation.”
Wong’s experiences on BART left a lasting impact on him. He said the transit system helped shape his “democratic sensibilities on urban design.” “No matter your class, you had a sense that you were getting special treatment when you rode the trains,” he said. “You really felt like you were a part of this democracy of benefits,” Wong continued. “You're sitting on a train with all the commuters who seemed much more affluent with their suits and ties and briefcases, but you’re right there on that train with them.” Wong went on to work for a series of Bay Area architectural offices before he was hired as an architect for the City and County of San Francisco. Wong still remembers his trips from North Beach to San Francisco State, where he earned his undergraduate degree, by way of the old surface M streetcar, a ride that took at least an hour each way. He said when the BART tunnels were built under Market, as well as the Muni Metro tunnels above them, “it was revolutionary.”
He also noticed that after BART opened, smaller bedroom communities quickly transformed into prosperous suburbs – a metamorphosis he attributes largely to the transit system, which enabled suburbanites to easily and affordably commute into San Francisco. He also noticed more businesses, especially higher-end department stores, set up shop along Market Street. Now retired, Wong remains an avid BART rider. He often takes the train to explore cities outside his hometown as well as to regular haunts around Mission Street and the Berkeley campus. As of late, he’s taken BART to visit Fremont, Orinda, and Walnut Creek. Recently, he rode BART to Berryessa/North San Jose Station to check out the San Jose Flea Market, which he learned about from a BARTable article. In his 51 years of riding BART, Wong said the public is essential in ensuring the system is around for generations to come. He encourages Bay Area residents to not “forget about transit.” “You don’t have to take it all the time, but ride it every once and awhile,” he said. “It takes advocacy and support, as well as revenue to improve local transit and to keep it running. The public can help give it a boost, too.”
This story is part of BART’s ongoing Role in the Region Study, which demonstrates BART’s importance to the Bay Area’s mobility, cultural diversity, environmental and economic sustainability. In the fall, we conducted a call for stories to hear from our riders and understand what BART means to them. We publicized the call on our website, social media, email blasts, and flyers at stations. More than 300 riders responded. We conducted interviews with select respondents to tell their stories in greater depth.
Do you have a favorite BART memory or story to share? Email a short summary to BART Storyteller Michelle Robertson at michelle.robertson@bart.gov, and she may follow up to schedule an interview. These stories will be shared in the Role in the Region Study and on bart.gov/news in the coming months. Learn more about the Role in the Region Study at bart.gov/roleintheregion.
Community Service Opportunity
Submitted By Fremont Human Services Department
The Youth & Family Services Team invites all Fremont high school students to participate in a social impact project: Exploring the Substance Misuse and Impact of Opioids on our Community
- Project Period: January 15 – April 22, 2024
- Up to 30 Service Hours
Benefits of Participation:
- Research and learn about alcohol and drugs, including opioids, and how they impact youth in our community.
- Design a digital survey to deploy to students.
- Develop a video presentation to share with students.
Eight volunteers will be selected to participate. Application deadline is Friday, December 29 at 5 p.m.
Learn more and apply: https://www.fremont.gov/government/departments/human-services/youth-services/youth-wellness-ambassadors
Holiday kids craft event
Submitted by Deborah Blackford
To celebrate the holiday season, Pacific Commons, a regional lifestyle center in Fremont, (http://pacificcommons.com), is hosting a family-friendly Holiday Kids Craft event on Wednesday, December 20, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. near Jamba Juice. During this fun-filled event, children will have the opportunity to paint and decorate their own miniature wooden holiday trees (while supplies last).
This event is free of charge and open to the public; no pre-registration is required. For more information, visit: https://pacificcommons.com/events.
Holiday Kids Craft
Wednesday, Dec 20
4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Pacific Commons, near Jamba Juice
43440 Boscell Rd., Fremont
Drug companies shouldn't be used as a political piggy bank
Submitted by Kenneth E. Thorpe
It's been just over a year since President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law. Already, Americans are reaping numerous benefits from the law's historic investments in clean energy and health care.
According to the White House, the IRA’s climate provisions have already spurred the creation of 170,000 jobs. Seniors on Medicare are paying less for insulin thanks to the law’s new $35 per month cap.
Those are all important achievements. But all legislation involves tradeoffs, and the IRA is no exception. While the bill’s authors may have gotten some things right, it’s false advertising to say it comes at no cost.
The IRA empowers Medicare officials to set the prices the program will pay on select brand-name drugs. The Biden administration recently announced the first ten medicines that will be subject to those price controls. Their new prices will go into effect in 2026, with more drugs eligible for price controls in the years ahead. The IRA also requires drug companies to issue rebates to Medicare on medicines whose cost goes up faster than the rate of inflation.
Government scorekeepers calculate the savings to Medicare from the IRA’s drug price provisions and other related policies at $266 billion through 2031. But the Medicare savings the IRA produces don’t get deposited as a lump sum into Medicare’s trust funds to extend the program’s solvency.
Rather, the savings are part of the “unified” federal budget. That means the money simply offsets part (not all) of the $670 billion in new spending and tax creditgs the IRA provides for clean energy. The IRA’s clean energy proposals are worthy. But we can’t pretend the money for them isn’t coming from somewhere.
That “somewhere” is the research firms responsible for bringing innovative medicines to patients. Lawmakers found a convenient way to transfer funds from the life-sciences industry to the federal government—establishing a piggy bank, of sorts, that they could use to fund clean energy. But this process can’t continue without jeopardizing the development of tomorrow’s medicines.
Research firms, like all companies, have to remain profitable to stay in business. When the opportunities to earn a return look grim—as is the case when the government can set a price for the product you sell—companies cut back in other areas. As a result, patients will have access to fewer new drugs. According to economists at the University of Chicago, the drug price control provisions of the IRA could result in 135 fewer new drugs by 2039.
That is not a solution for patients, particularly those still waiting for treatments and cures for Alzheimer's, cancer, and other serious diseases.
That's the tradeoff we’re making to support clean energy. Unfortunately, lawmakers are ignoring it. Several have proposed legislation that would expand the scope and severity of the IRA's price controls, despite the fact that the original ones have yet to take effect.
Legislators could very well end up exacerbating the problem they’re trying to fix. Good policymaking requires an honest assessment of tradeoffs. Lawmakers must take a long, hard look at their efforts to turn the life sciences industry into a piggy bank—and decide whether price controls are really the best way to fund other policy priorities.
Kenneth E. Thorpe is chair of the Department of Health Policy and Management at the Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University. He is also chairman of the Partnership to Fight Chronic Disease.
Holiday Toy and Blanket Giveaway
Submitted by Ritu Maheshwari
In keeping with the giving tradition and in spirit of holidays, FOG (Festival of Globe), Fremont Hindu Temple, and Federation of Indo-Americans (FIA) of Northern California are organizing a “Holiday Toy & Blanket Drive.” We hope to make this holiday season a little more cheerful and put a smile on the faces of a few children who may not be as fortunate as others.
This annual giveaway at Fremont Temple will be held on Sunday, December 17, to distribute the toys to children in need, including incarcerated youth in the Alameda County juvenile justice system. There is a strong felt need to give a little bit of joy to these kids during the holiday season.
Dr. Romesh Japra, Founder and Convener, FOG, said, “The real strength of a community is visible in the ways it supports all its members. Thanks to all the donors of toys, blankets and other accessories for needy, destitute, incarcerated, juvenile and disabled children. We look forward to making this holiday season special for these children.”
There has been tremendous response to FOG’s appeal to the community for the Toy Drive. Lots of boxes of new toys are being collected and will be delivered to the needy. Mayors, Assemblymembers, Alameda County Superior Court judges, and other dignitaries are expected to attend giveaway.
Next time you are out shopping, remember to buy a new, unwrapped toy and drop it in specially marked bins placed in the Fremont Hindu Temple. It could make someone’s holidays bright and cheerful!
You can also make a monetary donation toward this cause. Visit FOGSV.org or Fremonttemple.org to donate. Text Ritu Maheshwari at (510) 304-5619 for any questions.
FOG Toy and Blanket Drive
Sunday, Dec 17
12 noon – 2 p.m.
Fremont Hindu Temple
3676 Delaware Dr., Fremont
(510) 304-5619
FOGSV.org
Fremonttemple.org
2nd Arts, Culture, and Creativity Month in Fremont Starts April 2024
Submitted by Phyllis Wood for Fremont Creates
Fremont Creates is pleased to announce participation in April is Arts, Culture, and Creativity Month (ACCM), a California-wide, month-long celebration of visual arts, performance arts, musical arts, literary arts, and the diversity in our State. ACCM was established in 2019 by Californians for the Arts, and Fremont joined the celebration in 2023.
Fremont Creates is the organizing entity through the Fremont Cultural Arts Council. Under the Fremont Creates umbrella, over 50 Arts and Culture organizations hosted events and exhibits last April.
For ACCM 2024, Fremont Creates is planning new exhibits and events with our culture and arts partners and a finale on April 27, 2024, at the Downtown Event Center open to the whole community. Events will take place at different venues throughout April, allowing locals to visit diverse art locations in Fremont.
Our focus as we embark on the 2nd annual Fremont Creates:
- Set the expectation that Fremont Creates is an annual April event throughout the City of Fremont, California.
- Provide an opportunity for the Community to explore the artistic culture in Fremont and for local artists to showcase their talents to the Community.
- Bring local artists together for a shared artistic experience to exchange ideas and feature their expertise.
- Engage businesses and community partners to support Fremont Creates, acknowledging the arts as a necessary part of a vibrant and inclusive community.
If you are planning an arts event for April, complete the “Submit Your Event” form at https://fremontcreates.com/ to participate. We will add your organization to the list of hosts and your event to the calendar.
Visit FremontCreates.com to learn more about ACCM and to check out the Fremont Creates calendar of events for April 2024.
A special thank you to our sponsors to date:
Tri-City Voice
City of Fremont
Supervisor David Haubert’s Office
Niles Rotary Foundation
Harmony Fusion Chorus presents “Hittin’ the Holiday Road”
Submitted by Heidi Massie
Get in the holiday mood and enjoy an afternoon of festive music when Harmony Fusion Chorus, a women’s a capella show chorus presents “Hittin’ the Holiday Road,” featuring Fog City Harmonia treble chorus, Livermore’s Grace Clark & Swingitude, and a sleigh full of other talented performers.
“This has always been our most popular event of the holiday season,” says Barbara Vander Putten, director of Harmony Fusion. “We love including local talent as well as the fabulous small groups from our chorus. The venue provides the perfect acoustics for a cappella music. It will be a casual, holiday-themed event with a variety of music that will appeal to everyone.”
The chorus will perform well-known songs including Jingle Bells, a medley of Winter Weather and Marshmallow World, Fleetwood Mac’s Holiday Road and more.
Two musical groups are the featured guest performers. Fog City Harmonia, a treble a capella chorus based in San Francisco, whose mission is “furthering the San Francisco barbershop singing revolution with the power of female voices,” will perform five songs, including Carol of the Bells. In addition, the show features Livermore’s own Grace Clark & Swingitude, a Western swing and jazz vocal and instrumental group that is sure to add a variety of festive music.
Also performing are Musicology, a men’s barbershop quartet, a women’s quartet With a Twist and other vocal ensembles.
Harmony Fusion will host a reception for all guests immediately following the performance in the church fellowship hall.
Hittin’ the Holiday Road
Saturday, Dec 16
2 p.m.
Our Savior Lutheran Church
1385 S. Livermore, Livermore
www.ticketsource.us/harmony-fusion-chorus
Tickets: $20 adults; $10 children; $25 at the door
Holiday Cabaret: Love’s Obsession
Submitted by Terry Liebowitz
Photo by Dayna Speed
Celebrate the season with a Holiday Cabaret, Love's Obsession, on Sunday, December 17, at the Firehouse Arts Center in Pleasanton. Festivities begin at 5 pm with a no-host bar, light snacks, and surprises followed by the show at 6 p.m. The evening is a fundraiser for the area’s newest theater company, TMC Arts.
Founder Dayna Speed has assembled over 20 local entertainers to sing their favorite songs of love. Many performers return from TMC Arts’ debut summer blockbuster, Bright Star. They are joined by cast members of Castro Valley High School’s recently sold-out musical The Little Mermaid including Sophia Pereira (Ariel), Nora Layne (Ariel), Alex Hurley (Prince Eric), and Xavier Collins (Sebastian). Castro Valley Center for the Arts Manager Sean Cooper is paired with Pleasanton’s Kristen Vellinger to sing “I'd Give It All for You” from Songs For a New World.
Producer Dayna Speed is passionate about bringing musical theater to the forefront of the local entertainment scene. Following her Bright Star success, she will produce three shows in 2024: Anastasia and Oklahoma at the Douglas Morrisson Theatre and The Hunchback of Notre Dame at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts. “It is important to me to inspire and entertain audience members with shows that will leave them with a sense of hope,” Dayna shared. For tickets: TMCtheatre.org.
Love’s Obsession
Sunday, Dec 17
5 p.m. No-host bar & snacks
6 p.m. Performance starts
Firehouse Arts Center
4444 Railroad Ave., Pleasanton
(925) 931-4848
Tickets: $38-$45
Bret Harte Middle School announces new Makerspace!
Submitted by Michael Bazeley
On Wednesday, December 6, Bret Harte Middle School, part of the Hayward Unified School District, held a ribbon cutting for a new makerspace. The new STEAM space, which was funded through a donation from Amazon Web Services (AWS), includes 3D printers, a laser-cutting station, a smart sewing machine, a vinyl-cutting station that allows students to create electronic designs and then apply the designs to vinyl, and special whiteboard collaboration tables.
“Having the Makerspace equipment allows students to take their projects that we do with the standard curriculum and really bring it to life,” said Bret Harte teacher Edgar Monroy. “It allows them to go beyond the curriculum so they can create new things and expand on what they are learning.”
“On behalf of AWS, we’re proud to once again collaborate with the Hayward Unified School District to increase access to technology and STEAM education for students,” said Paul Butler, Community Engagement Manager for AWS In Communities. “We strongly believe that exposing young learners to fun and engaging STEAM activities at an early age, such as those being offered at the new Bret Harte Maker Space, can spark a lifelong curiosity and interest in these disciplines. We look forward to seeing students build, innovate and develop a passion for invention.”
Hayward Unified School District
Children’s Christmas Concert
Submitted by Veera Kazak
Music for Minors II (MFMII) will present a free Christmas concert featuring the MFMII kids choir, on Friday, December 15 at Niles Elementary School.
The MFMII Kids Choir is composed of over 50 talented students from Fremont, Newark, Dublin and Union City. They represent Music for Minors II, a non-profit organization providing music enrichment in schools since 1988. The choir was started in October 2015, under the capable directorship of Lydia Concepcion, a talented musician and a private piano/vocal teacher. Lydia is a former volunteer MFMII docent and has a flair for showmanship.
The choir has been practicing hard for their performances and has been given standing ovations in the past. The choir recently gave two wonderful holiday performances at the tree lighting at Pacific Commons and also recently sang the national anthem at the San Jose Barracuda ice hockey game in November.
The choir will soon be open for new members and for those who are interested to join, please visit www.musicforminors2.org/kids-choir. Auditions for the spring semester (January-May 2023) will be on January 11 and 13, 2024, via Zoom. Choir rehearsals for semester two will be in person on Thursdays, 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. at Niles Elementary School, and on Saturdays at 11a.m. – 12 noon at UCC Fremont.
Wishing you all a happy and musical holiday season!
Children’s Christmas Concert
Friday Dec 15
7 p.m.
Niles Elementary School
37141 2nd St., Fremont
www.musicforminors2.org/kids-choir
Let Two Mission Peak Choirs Lift Your Holiday Spirits
Submitted by Shirley Gilbert
Ready your voices, gather your family, and prepare to be exuberantly entertained, because you are invited to join the People’s Choir and Chamber Singers for their annual holiday concert filled with glorious music, candlelight, brass fanfares and seasonal singalongs, all taking place on Saturday, December 16 and Sunday, December 17 at Niles Discovery Church.
In the past, the People’s Choir and Chamber Singers rehearsed and sang separately, but this year the two have joined together to form a robust choir of 40 voices strong. The concert will feature a brass quintet to add to the festivities. On Saturday only, guest performances from the Mission San Jose High School Choir will join the Mission Peak Choirs.
This year, there will be a Silent Auction during the intermission for each performance when you can vie for items such as a private wine tasting at Ledson Castle Winery and Vineyards in Kenwood, Sonoma County and a dinner with the choirs’ Artistic Director Dr. Corie Brown.
To purchase tickets for these two outstanding concerts, visit www.chambersingers.org/concerts. It’s a brilliant way to ring in the holiday season!
Mission Peak Choirs’ Concerts
Saturday, Dec 16; 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, Dec 17; 2:30 p.m.
Niles Discovery Church
36600 Niles Blvd., Fremont
www.chambersingers.org/concerts
Tickets: $30-$45
Call for local artists!
Submitted by Olive Hyde Art Gallery
Calling all local Fremont and Bay Area artists! The Olive Hyde Art Gallery is now accepting entries for Hidden Treasures, Local Talent. Submit your Artwork for the opportunity to be exhibited!
Hidden Treasures, Local Talent
Virtual Exhibit: Thursday, January 11 – Saturday, March 16
Exhibition Dates: Thursday, January 18 – Saturday, March 16
Opening Reception: Friday, January 26 (7 p.m. – 9 p.m.)
Submit the following to olivehydecurator@fremont.gov:
- Up to three entries with the title, dimension, year, and medium listed. (Submissions may include any form of 2D and/or 3D artwork, but must be your own work, not copied or generated.)
- Digital images of artwork must be of high quality resolution. Label files with your last name and the title of the artwork.
- The majority of accepted work must be for sale.
Upon Acceptance:
- Accepted artists will be notified by Friday, December 29 through email.
- Submit $30 entry fee on Art Delivery Day: Sunday, January 7 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. (No fee for FUSD and Ohlone students).
- Accepted artwork will also be exhibited on a virtual gallery platform.
- All work must be ready to install for exhibition. Shipping fees are the responsibility of the artist.
Hidden Treasures, Local Talent
Submission Deadline: Tuesday, December 26
Submit to: olivehydecurator@fremont.gov
Grant awarded to Mothers Against Drunk Driving
Submitted by Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control
The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) has awarded a $729,900 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Safety Administration to Mothers Against Drunk Driving. The purpose of the grant is to educate teens, young adults, and the public on the consequences of impaired driving to reduce driving deaths and injuries.
ABC will administer the grant for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) in an effort to combat impaired driving. Funding from this grant will provide opportunities for students, educators, parents, prevention specialists and law enforcement to collaborate on projects that educate youth about the dangers of underage drinking, driving under the influence, binge drinking, and alcohol abuse. The grant program runs through September 2024.
Grant resources will be used for training committees of college-age students to present the risks of underage drinking to their peers, creating a teen influencer YouTube channel aimed at preventing underage drinking, and delivering statewide presentations to parents about how to talk to their children about underage drinking.
“ABC supports this effort to educate communities about the impact of impaired driving and underage drinking. We all strive to make public roadways safer in California,” said ABC Director Joseph McCullough.
ABC protects communities through education and by administering prevention and enforcement programs designed to increase compliance with California’s alcoholic beverage laws. To learn more about ABC programs that help protect communities, prevent alcohol-related harm, and save lives, visit ABC’s website at www.abc.ca.gov.
Park district embarks on district-wide energy efficiency project
Submitted by Nicole Espinoza Roa
Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD) is taking a bold step forward in its commitment to environmental sustainability and fiscal responsibility with the expansion of the Energy Efficiency Project, made possible through a partnership with Syserco Energy Solutions, Inc. (SES). This project, part of the Five-Year Capital Improvement Program 2020-2025, will completely change how the District uses energy, ensure substantial savings for its users, and reduce the District’s carbon footprint.
SES is a leader working with public agencies to implement energy and infrastructure improvement projects, the costs of which are expected to be offset by reduced energy expenses. The partnership with HARD began in 2021 when the District initiated discussions with Syserco about ways to improve energy use and infrastructure.
These discussions centered on the following objectives:
- Reducing the District's carbon footprint
- Decreasing energy consumption
- Achieving significant operational cost savings
- Enhancing aging energy infrastructure
- Facilitating local power generation
In November 2021, SES conducted a Preliminary Feasibility Assessment (PFA) at eight of the District’s facilities. This assessment involved analyzing historical energy usage, identifying energy efficiency opportunities, outlining potential funding sources, and presenting a hypothetical cash-flow model. The results of the study were presented to the Board of Directors in 2022. Notably, the report showed that a $3.2 million project could save about $7 million over 20 years.
In 2023, they presented the final plan to the Board, covering 26 sites and a project costing $6.75 million. The plan showed potential savings of about $17.5 million over 30 years.
As the project advanced, it became apparent that certain roofs required repairs to accommodate the installation of solar panels. With the assistance of Syserco, HARD incorporated roof repairs for 11 sites into the plan. This adjustment raised the project cost to $14.3 million but also elevated the potential savings to approximately $29 million over 30 years. Additionally, they identified an incentive that could potentially reduce the net cost to around $13 million.
The project must adhere to specific rules to maintain eligibility for incentives, with a goal of completion by March 2025. Hayward Area Recreation and Park District has agreed to spend $14.3 million on this districtwide Energy Efficiency Project with Syserco Energy Solutions. This marks a significant step towards a more sustainable and fiscally responsible future for the District.
For further information, contact Nicole Espinoza Roa at (510) 888-0111 or RoaN@HaywardRec.org.
Park Happenings for December
Submitted by Dave Mason
On December 3, the East Bay Regional Park District held a grand opening celebration for the Tyler Ranch Staging Area in Sunol and the opening of 2,800 acres of new open space for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. New amenities include 78 parking spaces, equestrian staging/trailer parking, accessible restrooms, a small family picnic area, and access to 18 miles of trails.
The new parkland offers panoramic views of the Bay Area, including the San Francisco Bay, Mount Diablo, Brushy Peak, Mission Peak, Mount Umunhum, and Mount Tamalpais. From the staging area to Sunol Ridge, there is a challenging trail with 1,700 feet of elevation gain. Further north along the ridgeline is Sunol Peak at 2,163 feet, just under the height of Mission Peak.
The new parkland is part of Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park, which covers over 9,000 acres. For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/parks/pleasanton-ridge.
The Park District recently updated Ordinance 38 to allow Class I e-Bikes on all trails where regular bikes are allowed, and Class II e-Bikes on all paved Regional Trails. Class 1 e-Bikes are pedal-assist and require pedaling for assistance from the electric motor. Class II e-Bikes have a throttle and allow pedal assist but do not require pedaling for assistance from the electric motor. All e-Bikes must follow the 15-mph bike speed limit. Bikers should also remember to slow down around others, call out or ring their bell when passing, and stay on designated trails only. For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/recreation/biking.
The winter holidays are a great time to get into nature and spend time with family and friends. Christmas at the Patterson House at Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont celebrates a turn of the 20th century holiday at a beautifully restored Queen Anne mansion fully decorated for the holidays. Purchase tickets in advance online or at the door, as space allows. Winter Wonderland at the Tilden Merry-go-Round at Tilden Regional Park in Berkeley is a beloved East Bay holiday tradition! Ride the carousel, visit with Santa or Olaf, view the lights and decorations, and enjoy holiday treats. Winterfest at the Tilden Steam Train at Tilden Regional Park in Berkeley offers a spectacular ride through the park on the Redwood Valley Railway with lights and holiday decorations. For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/holidays-parks.
Every year, between October and February, ladybugs cluster together in large groups to hibernate. A single cluster may contain hundreds of thousands of ladybugs. They cluster together in shrubs during cold winter weather, then disperse in the springtime. You can see them along the trails in many parks and open spaces, but one of their favorite places to gather is the intersection of Stream and Prince trails at Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park. For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/parks/reinhardt-redwood.
The new year brings new excitement and opportunities to get into nature. Kick off the year with a naturalist-led hike or activity! For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/calendar and search “New Year.”
The return of a GREAT Christmas light show!
By Marc Vicente
Photos courtesy of Travis Hellewell
Last year, ABC’s holiday series “The Great Christmas Light Fight” returned to TV and streaming with its 10th season, showcasing many grand Christmas light displays from across North America and giving families a chance to win $50,000. Together with wife Melissa and 11-year-old daughter Lily, Newark-born construction worker Travis Hellewell submitted his grandiose light show display to be featured during that season of the holiday series.
Usually starting up right after Halloween, the intricate light shows take a massive amount of manpower to both assemble and to ensure each installment works as intended. According to Travis, each decoration is custom designed to withstand rainy and windy conditions, and is crafted either by hand or ordered many months in advance, with the roster including an 8-foot-tall sofa with a dance floor, a giant sidewalk piano and last year’s 30 foot tall Grinch inflatable. This year, a Ferris wheel, carousel and 40-foot Christmas tree were added to that roster.
“Our light show started when a friend of mine also worked on his own,” Travis says, reminiscing on the first time he set up his lights. “It kind of grew into a competition to see who could make a bigger and better setup. Though I never expected it to eventually spiral into what it is now, I see the joy it brings to people so I decided to keep it up and try to make it even bigger every year.”
The light show also doubles as a way to promote the Newark Memorial Family Shopping Event, a toy drive that collects new and unwrapped toys for less fortunate kids and other families within the Newark community. According to Hellewell, there was a larger turnout of people who showed up last year thanks to his family’s participation in The Great Christmas Light Fight. This year’s toy drive will be celebrated at the light show venue itself, at 6716 Fountaine Avenue, on Saturday, December 16, and it will commemorate its 6th consecutive year of giving back to schools across Newark. Though many other families participate too, this year’s toy drive might actually be the last for the Hellewells.
“We have outgrown our current house: not only for our Christmas decorations, but our family as a whole has grown too, so we decided to move down South,” Travis states. “My family is sad to see the light show leave Newark, but they’re also just as excited because we’re still going to be continuing it down at San Luis Obispo. It’s not like it’s gone forever; it’s more like a new beginning, if anything.”
Watch the Hellewell family’s setup on Season 10 of “The Great Christmas Light Show” on ABC, Disney+, or Hulu. Read updates to the Hellewell light show on Travis’ Instagram under @king_of_xmas or visit it in person this year in Newark. Although their display is open every night during the Christmas season between 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., they cancel their shows on windy or rainy days to protect onlookers from dangerous weather conditions.
Hellewell Family Light Display
5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Newark Memorial Family Shopping Event
Saturday, Dec 16
6716 Fountaine Ave., Newark
Santa at the Firehouse
Submitted by Elisa Marquez
On Saturday, December 16, Santa will make a special appearance at Fire Station 28 in Newark. The event will involve photos with Santa, Newark Memorial High School Choir, hot chocolate and coffee, milk and cookies, and instrumental holiday classics by Fire Fighter Zhuk.
Please bring a new, unwrapped toy for entrance to the event.
Santa at the Firehouse
Saturday, Dec 16
4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Station 28
7550 Thornton Ave., Newark
Bring new, unwrapped toy
Renovating and Respecting Sulphur Creek
By Stephanie Gertsch
If you take a turn off the sloping D Street in Hayward, you may find yourself descending into a quiet and mysterious valley in the middle of the hilly suburb. The sounds of cars fade away, and you’ll meet some of the native animal residents of the East Bay, now living at Sulphur Creek Nature Center. Many local people have fond memories of visiting the center for classes, or meeting some of the animal ambassadors at school. On Thursday, December 7, Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD) held a groundbreaking for a project to renovate and update the center and keep it thriving for generations to come.
Park District Director Rick Hatcher shared how the facility at 1801 D Street was purchased in 1970 by HARD. “It used to be a wellness retreat, which completely makes sense. They used to use the sulphur water for some of their wellness healing down here.” In the early 2000s, the animal care building underwent a substantial renovation. Now the wildlife rehabilitation and education center hosts about 55 resident animals spanning nearly 40 different species. Some are ambassadors who visit local schools to teach kids about local wildlife.
New features for this project will include interpretive signage, a paved pavilion for classes, an amphitheater, grading of the earth for safety, a welcome kiosk, and additional seating between the aviaries and bridge.
Some funding comes from 2016’s Measure F1 bond, which provides $250 million to improve HARD parks and facilities. Additional funding is provided by grants from the California State Department of Parks and Recreation, Fremont Bank Foundation, the HARD Foundation Golf Tournament fundraiser, and a $10,000 donation from Anne Pendleton.
Rick Hatcher shared how meaningful Sulphur Creek has been for the community. “[With] the density of our communities, we need these open spaces…When the pandemic happened, [the word was] ‘Stay in your home, go to your parks.’ The density allows this to be an amenity for education, a resource for the whole family.”
Spaces like Sulphur Creek are even more crucial in a time when the youth are feeling isolated and disconnected, and “third spaces” where they can spend time outside the home seem to be dwindling. Hatcher shares, “Kids having respect for their native environment is not only important but necessary in this really challenging time. I’m on the Hayward Youth Commission, and the kids tell me three things. There’s nothing for them to do, they’re not heard, and they’re depressed. This is a resource to be able to give the urban kids and families a place to learn about the native flora and fauna.”
Hatcher also thanked the volunteers at the park, joking, “I don’t say the volunteers run our district but they sure do quite a bit of work for us.” He noted, “There are so many volunteers that come here and donate their time, their efforts. Retired, young, and older. Our senior centers have mostly seniors, but here you have a very wide variety of community that donates, from young to seniors, because of their love.”
Construction is projected to start before the end of the year, and be completed by summer or fall 2024.
Sulphur Creek Nature Center
https://haywardrec.org/1991/Nature-Centers
The Man Who Saved Christmas’ Actors Share Unique Bond
Submitted by David Newman
“What’s wrong with the grown-ups?” ten-year-old Cara Impallomeni belts out as the character “Ellen” during a brush-up rehearsal for The Man Who Saved Christmas. The tuneful musical comedy was selling out performances at Castro Valley’s Chanticleers Theatre even before it opened on December 1.
“What’s wrong with the grown-ups?” is the same musical question that Los Angeles based singer/actor Jordyn Foley asked when she sang the role of “Ellen” on the award-winning studio cast album of the same show nearly a decade ago.
Now Foley is a grown-up herself, and she’s returned to the Bay Area to step into the high-button shoes of The Man Who Saved Christmas’ leading lady “Alice Finch.” This co-production between Chanticleers and East Bay Children’s Theatre is being directed by the musical’s composer/lyricist and playwright, Ron Lytle.
During a break from rehearsal, Foley sits down on the stage next to Impallomeni and asks her young co-star, “So what’s your favorite part of the show?”
“Definitely ‘Grown-Ups!’” the newly-minted Ellen giggles. “It's really fun to sing about how grown-ups are weird and have lots of flaws!”
“That was always my favorite song, too.” The former Ellen nods as she raises her hand in the air for a high-five from her mini-me. “And it hasn’t changed since I recorded the album. It’ll always be my favorite. Except now, I am one of the grownups, which makes it even funnier.”
As Foley cherishes her memories of being a part of the cast album, she also loves having graduated to the leading lady role. “It’s been such a great experience, and most importantly a learning experience. I really love singing ‘It’s Very Dangerous.’”
Playing an older role means having a better understanding of the character’s backstory, since they have lived longer, which affects the vocal inflections, physicalities, and of course the reactions.”
Impallomeni continues, “I’m just so happy and proud to be in the place that Jordyn was this time 10 years ago. And I’m just really flattered that Ron chose me for Ellen and that I’ve gotten to learn from him over the last few months.”
Foley agrees. “Ron has always been one of my favorite humans to work with. I know whenever I work with him I am going to have the best memories, laughs, passion, and come out as a better performer than when I came in…I’ll be sorry to let go of this role.”
Impallomeni gets a bit serious for a moment. “I hate the thought of the show being over because I know how sad it will be to leave this new theatre family I've grown so close to. That will definitely be the hardest part.”
But there’s no time to dwell on such thoughts. The break has ended, and the once and current Ellens need to get back to work. “Let’s go! Time to get our very-merry on!” Foley instructs her young friend and costar.
“Let’s do it!” Impallomeni responds as the two share a quick hug and head into the wings.
The Man Who Saved Christmas plays through December 17.
The Man Who Saved Christmas
Friday, Dec 1 – Sunday, Dec 17
Fri/Sat: 8 p.m.
Sun: 2 p.m.
Chanticleers Theater
3683 Quail Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 733-5483
Tickets: $25-$30
Over 200 Community Members Attend Union City Station District Open House
Submitted by Union City
Bright visuals, engineers, housing developers, senior City staff, over 200 community members, and plenty of hot cocoa! All were on hand this past Saturday, December 2, for Union City’s Station District Community Open House, giving residents opportunities to learn about the City’s vision for a vibrant, walkable, transit-oriented neighborhood centered around the Union City BART Station. Resembling a lively and dynamic science fair, several informative project boards covering key affordable and mixed-use housing and infrastructure projects within the Station District area were prominently displayed. City staff, project engineers, and developers were also present to directly answer questions from the public.
“Union City has grown and evolved in many ways throughout the decades,” said Mayor Carol Dutra-Vernaci. “What’s envisioned for the future of the Station District will meet both the needs of current and future residents of Union City. There are a range of opportunities here – from new retail to public amenities, affordable housing, and more, all linked to a comprehensive network of trails, bikeways, and pedestrian-friendly streets.”
Union City is proud to have transformed more than 90 acres of vacant, underutilized, Station-District-2 and environmentally contaminated land into a thriving pedestrian and transit-oriented community, and there are plans for even more community building in the Station District area. The Station District, winner of numerous awards, has 1,700 new housing units built or entitled and 1.2 million square feet of planned office space – all in the Station District next to BART. Yet, there is more to come! In the next five years 2,000 homes are expected to be built within one-half mile, or slightly more, of the BART station. These homes will have an average density of 45 units per acre.
Information was also provided about the planned Quarry Lakes Parkway, a critical multimodal local road needed support the build-out of the Station District area, and namely for critical public safety access to and from local schools, homes, and businesses. Distinguishing characteristics of this local “complete street” include a 20-foot-wide Class I multi-use trail, increased tree canopy, enhanced lighting, buffered bike lanes, and additional pedestrian safety, and traffic calming measures. Quarry Lakes Parkway also provides additional opportunities to revitalize Old Alameda Creek through stormwater capture, groundwater recharge, and habitat restoration to name a few.
The Station District today is anchored around the Union City Intermodal Station, which functions as a multi-modal transit hub connecting the services of BART, Union City Transit (UC Transit), AC Transit, and the Dumbarton Express. Plans were unveiled for the hub to become home to a future Intercity Rail Station as identified in the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) Southern Alameda County Integrated Regional Rail Study, Phase 2. The proposed connection to the Altamont Corridor Express (ACE) rail will connect the East Bay to Sacramento, the Central Valley, and eventually high-speed rail, and further emphasizes Union City as a transit-rich destination with options for connectivity to the entire region.
For more information, please visit: www.unioncity.org/qlp.
Park District Partners with OCD Dance Company to present The Velveteen Rabbit
Submitted by Nicole Roa
Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (H.A.R.D.) has teamed up with ODC/Dance to present a spectacular rendition of “The Velveteen Rabbit” on December 16 and 17 at the Douglas Morrisson Theatre as part of the new DMT Presents series.
Voted as San Francisco Magazine’s Best of the Bay, ODC/Dance is making a rare appearance in the East Bay to commemorate the 37th anniversary of this beloved Bay Area holiday tradition. “The Velveteen Rabbit,” directed and choreographed by KT Nelson and featuring students from H.A.R.D’s dance program, is a heartwarming adaptation of Margery Williams’ cherished book.
Prepare to be enchanted as “The Velveteen Rabbit” overflows with humor, festive costumes, whimsical characters, and just the right touch of holiday joy! This captivating production boasts engaging narration, a delightful musical score composed by Benjamin Britten, and larger-than-life storybook characters brought to life by the world-class dancers of the ODC Dance Company at the Douglas Morrisson Theatre.
Performances will be on Saturday, December 16, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. and Sunday, December 17, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. The performance duration is 90 minutes with a 15-minute Intermission.
Secure your tickets conveniently from our online box office by visiting: https://douglasmorrissontheatre.thundertix.com/events/218468
The Velveteen Rabbit
Saturday, Dec 16 – Sunday, Dec 17
Sat: 6 p.m.
Sun: 2 p.m.
Douglas Morrisson Theatre
22311 N. Third St., Hayward
(510) 881-6777
Tickets: $40
https://douglasmorrissontheatre.thundertix.com/events/218468
All I want for Christmas is a silent BMW: The BMW i4 eDrive40
By Michael Coates
There is something seductive about a car that’s smooth-riding, silent, but a rocket ship when it comes to acceleration. The BMW i4 is one of the best expression of all-electric luxury and performance I’ve driven. It was a great way to end the year.
Looks
The dark blue paint (Tanzanite Blue II Metallic to be precise, which you should be with a car like this) softens the impact of the huge black kidney grille. I think we should stop calling them “kidneys;” when they’re this big, they resemble a filleted Star Wars TIE-fighter. It’s a hatchback, but you’d never know it from the sleek profile. Subtle practicality, very German.
Power
Instant torque in an EV means you can go fast faster. Five seconds to freeway speeds from a stop in this i4 model. It can be snap-your-head-back fast, or just that smooth, solid speed-up. There’s horsepower, yes, but it’s the torque that gets you there so expeditiously. And you can go far. The eDrive40 model we had, the middle child in the lineup, offers 283 miles of driving range if you don’t spend too much time trying to better your 0-60 times.
I hate to say this, but maybe this i4 has too much power. Around town, it was way too easy to double the speed limit without even feeling like you’re going that fast. That’s that smooth power again. It also didn’t hurt that the handling of the i4 was as intuitive as any car I’ve driven. It felt like it knew the road, turning challenging corners into a silky jaunt.
The i4 lineup ranges from the basic rear-wheel drive (RWD) eDrive35 that offers 282 hp and 301 miles of range to the M50 featuring all of the outrageousness you’d expect from an M-Sport BMW; it’s all-wheel drive, but you pay for the speediness with a reduced range of 269 miles.
Price
The good news is eDrive35 starts at $52,200, which is pretty reasonable these days. That’s not too far above the average new transaction price of $47,936 (October 2023), according to Cox Automotive. However, our test model had a long list of very welcome technology and comfort options, leading to a final sticker price of $68,270. Then again, you can move up to the M50 that starts at $69,700. Once you get past the fundamental issue of whether you can afford a car like the i4, it’s really a matter of finding what features you want. Here is my priority list:
- AWD – Do you live where the winters are severe or springs are sloppy with rain? Spend the $4,000 to get xDrive (AWD).
- Premium Paint – That Tanzanite ticked the price up $1,500, but some colors can almost triple that. Basic black and white are no charge, but this car deserves a little pizzazz.
- Dynamic Handling Package (+M Sport) – This is why you get a BMW, in my opinion. The stock suspension is good, but add some M Sport pieces and you must find roads worthy of challenging this car, or take it to the track. It’s more than $4,000, but you will own the road.
- Drivers Assistance Pro Package – This gives you high-level, almost autonomous driving. It’s a $1,700 upgrade, so only tick that box if you’re going to be out on the highway a lot.
- Premium Package – This includes some nice comfort items like lumbar support and wireless device charging, but most valuable is the head-up display. Total package = $950.
The list continues with the i4, as it does often with luxury vehicles. You have to find your own comfort level. The good news is the BMW i4 gives you a great all-electric platform as a start. If it would only fit under the tree.
HISTORY MATTERS
By John Grimaldi and David Bruce Smith
December 1 through 15
Pearl Harbor Bluff
On Saturday, December 6, 1941, President Franklin Roosevelt advised Emperor Hirohito to withdraw his fleet of warships “for the sake of humanity.” The message was prompted by a Royal Australian Air Force pilot who had detected a formidable throng of Japanese warships headed for Thailand. Meanwhile, according to History.com, “600 miles northwest of Hawaii, Admiral Yamamoto, commander of the Japanese fleet, announced to his men: ‘The rise or fall of the empire depends upon this battle. Everyone will do his duty with utmost efforts.’ Thailand was, in fact, a bluff. Pearl Harbor in Oahu, Hawaii was confirmed for Yamamoto as the Japanese target, after the Japanese consul in Hawaii had reported to Tokyo that a significant portion of the U.S. Pacific fleet would be anchored in the harbor – sitting ducks. The following morning, Sunday, December 7, was a good day to begin a raid.”
The Grateful American Book Prize recommends Events That Changed the course of History: The Story of the Attack on Pearl Harbor 75 Years Later by Kimberly Sarmiento.
Buffalo Bill Stage Debut
William Frederick Cody – known as Buffalo Bill – embodied the heroes of the Wild West. He garnered esteem for his service with the Pony Express – and later – as a Civil War hero for the Union. His dexterity with a six-gun was so remarkable that Ned Buntline [born Edward Judson] wrote 550 dime novels featuring Cody. After his The Scouts of the Prairie was adapted for the stage, he persuaded Buffalo Bill “to abandon his real-life western adventures to play a highly exaggerated version of himself …” [on stage]. On December 11, 1872, Cody made his debut in Chicago. According to History.com. “Once he had a taste of the performing life, Cody never looked back. Though he continued to spend time scouting or guiding hunt trips in the West, Cody remained on the Chicago stage for the next 11 years. Buffalo Bill Cody was the hero of more than 1,700 variant issues of dime novels [by a variety of authors], and his star shone even more brightly when his world-famous Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show debuted in 1883. The show was still touring when Buffalo Bill Cody died in 1917.”
The Grateful American Book Prize recommends Buffalo Bill Cody: An Autobiography.
Bill of Rights Origin
The American Revolution, which ended in 1783, achieved America’s independence, and the Constitution – ratified on December 15, 1791 – underscored freedom, and citizens’ rights. Today, there are 27 amendments, but the first ten – the Bill of Rights – are the most important. “Influenced by the English Bill of Rights of 1689, the Bill of Rights was also drawn from Virginia’s Declaration of Rights, drafted by George Mason in 1776,” according to History.com. “Mason, a native Virginian, was a lifelong champion of individual liberties, and in 1787 he attended the Constitutional Convention and criticized the final document for lacking constitutional protection of basic political rights. In the ratification struggle that followed, Mason and other critics agreed to support the Constitution in exchange for the assurance that amendments would be passed immediately.”
The Grateful American Book Prize recommends Carol Berkin‘s The Bill of Rights: The Fight to Secure America's Liberties.
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
Leaping lizard
The Collins family of Hollywood, Florida found an unwelcome guest recently in their guestroom toilet – a rather large iguana. How it got there is anybody’s guess. It seemed to be dead at first, but when Mr. Collins brought in a neighbor to help catch the cagey cadger it tried to wriggle its way to freedom. In fact, Mr. Collins and his neighbor managed to trap the lazy lizard in a garbage bag and released it into the great outdoors where it belonged. See the toilet trespasser on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zg2rf7gwCE8.
It's no glass ring
The Glass family of Chino Hills, California spent more than a year seeking to recover Jana Glass’s wedding ring. Somehow their 5-year-old son had accidentally flushed it down the toilet. They sought help from plumbers to no avail. Fourteen months later a public works crew working in the sewer near their home stopped in their tracks when they came across the sparkling diamond ring. They remembered that Mrs. Glass had lost her ring in the sewer, cleaned it up and, to her grateful surprise, returned it to her. See the full story at https://abc7.com/lost-engagement-ring-yana-glass-chino-hills-public-works-feel-good-stories/13266420/
How old is your turtle
St. Helena island in the South Atlantic Ocean is the home of the world’s oldest living creature – a giant tortoise that goes by the name of Jonathan and that is more than 191 years of age. According to the Guinness World Records Jonathan was at least 50 years old when it was brought to St. Helena from the Seychelles islands in 1882, making him the world’s oldest living land animal. See the spunky senior on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PXsTZzyyrSE
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.
Plant Snacks
By Pat Kite
Gardeners put all kinds of leftover food onto their plants. What works and what doesn’t?
BANANA PEELS?
I used to toss my banana peels into the garbage. My neighbor puts them in her compost pile. A friend uses them as fertilizer. Banana peels have calcium, sulphur, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus. For fertilizer, cut your peels into small pieces. Place these in a bucket of water. Let sit for three days. Stir a bit. Strain this concoction keeping the liquid. Spray on plants. Some ferns really like this. Strained chopped peels go in the compost bin. Or you can lay the unwanted peels around, but not touching, the plant base. Cover this with ordinary mulch so you don’t get hungry flies and bugs. As the peel fades away it releases its vitamins.
ORANGE PEELS?
Boil orange peels in a small pot. Strain the liquid into a spray bottle. Use this cooled spray indoors or outdoors. In theory, pest bugs don’t like citrus smells. Spray about every four days to discourage aphids, ants, fruit flies and whiteflies. For fresh peels, cut up and place near plant bases. Fresh peels only, no innards which will attract hungry visitors.
EGG SHELLS?
Egg shells are great calcium providers. You can make egg shell tea; your goal here is discouraging blossom end rot. For tea, grind eggshells into a powder. Put this in a jar and pour hot water over the ground shells. Leave for a week, stirring occasionally. Strain and use for plant tea, with the remainders in compost. You can also chop your shells after cleansing them. Use the chopped shells around plant bases. Snails and slugs do not like to slime over egg shells. For fun and to reduce waste, you can put egg shell halves in your now-empty egg box, fill them with potting soil, and use them as infant seed holders. After seeds get a nice start, just bury the shell and newborn egg pot together.
COFFEE GROUNDS?
Coffee grounds can wreak havoc with your sink disposal and your toilet. The grounds just clump together and stick around. The same can happen with your garden plants. If you throw ground coffee by the handful onto the ground, a thick layer deters water input. Too thick a layer will eventually kill nearby plants. You want to sprinkle this nitrogen-containing amendment in kindly amounts. If energetic, dig it in. As a caution, avoid blueberries, azaleas and some geraniums as it can make them overly acidic. A reminder—dogs and cats can get quite ill from nibbling on coffee grounds. Some say squirrels don’t fancy them either.
YOGURT?
An acquaintance says she uses her leftover yogurt mixed with water around her plants. I haven’t tried this because I seldom have leftovers.
Gardens are peaceful playgrounds, especially during the holiday season.
Social Security Matters
By Russell Gloor, National Social Security Advisor, AMAC Foundation
Ask Rusty – Can I Voluntarily Suspend My Social Security Payments?
Dear Rusty: My wife retired in 2015 and is receiving Social Security. I am past my full retirement age, and I still work. I recently filed for Social Security benefits and received my first payment earlier this month, and my benefits are around three times my wife’s. I now find that, due to other income, I am having some regrets about filing for Social Security, as the taxes will be complicated. So, my questions are:
- If I do a “Voluntary Suspension”, can my wife still apply to get up to 50% of my benefits, or do I have to be “actively” receiving Social Security benefits? In other words, does the “Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015” prevent this?
- If I do a “Voluntary Suspension,” how soon could I “restart” my benefits?
Signed: Having Second Thoughts
Dear Second Thoughts: The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015 closed a loophole which previously allowed someone to file for their Social Security retirement benefit in order for their marital partner to claim a spousal benefit, after which the primary beneficiary could suspend their own benefit and allow it to grow to maximum at age 70. That “file and suspend” option went away in April of 2016; thus, your wife cannot claim her spousal benefit while your Social Security retirement benefits are suspended (you must be “actively” receiving benefits for your wife to get benefits on your record).
Nevertheless, because you’ve already reached your full retirement age, you can voluntarily suspend your benefit payments at any time to allow it to continue growing by simply calling Social Security at your local office (or at the national number 1 (800) 772-1213) and asking them to do so. Your wife will not receive her spousal benefits for any months your benefits are suspended, but she would continue to get her own SS retirement amount (only the spousal portion of her monthly amount would be suspended).
You will be able to restart your benefits at any time by calling Social Security again and asking that your benefits be resumed. You can suspend and restart your benefits as needed (no restriction on how many times), but they will only start/resume the suspension effective with the month following the month you call. And, as you likely already know, for each month your benefits are suspended you will earn Delayed Retirement Credits (DRCs) resulting in a higher payment amount later.
Just for clarity, voluntary suspension of benefits is only available to those who have reached full retirement age but is an excellent way to increase your monthly Social Security payment. Your benefit will grow by .667% for each month suspended and, if your benefit is still suspended when you turn 70 years old, Social Security will automatically resume payments at that time, at your higher maximum monthly amount.
This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or financial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation’s staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit our website (amacfoundation.org/programs/social-security-advisory) or email us at ssadvisor@amacfoundation.org.
Festive Filoli
By Daniel O’Donnell
A few weeks before November 15, the Filoli estate was informed that they had been chosen as one of the Bay Area venues to host part of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference. President Biden and China’s President Xi Jinping would attend a meeting on this particular day with other world leaders in the estate’s ballroom and then tour the grounds. This was just two days before people from all over the Bay Area would also walk through the ballroom and tour the gardens for a different event. That event is the annual Holidays at Filoli. Thankfully, with some hard work and long hours, the Filoli staff was able to keep to the event’s scheduled opening.
Filoli, also known as the Bourn-Roth Estate, is located about 25 miles south of San Francisco in Woodside. It opened to the public in 1977 as a non-profit. The estate features a 54,000 square foot Georgian style mansion, 16 acres of formal gardens, and over 600 more acres of natural lands. The country mansion’s name was derived from combining the first two letters from the first three words in a three-line personal credo of William Bourn, the estate’s first owner. Fight for a just cause. Love your fellow man. Live a good life. Although the estate is open to visitors all year round, it is only in November and into January that the house and the gardens can be toured decorated with a holiday theme.
This year, the Holidays at Filoli event is titled “A season of magic and celebration.” The design of the event changes from year to year, making it worth a trip even for those who have been before. This year’s holiday celebration ticket sales at Filoli.org started on November 18. Tickets can be purchased until January 7, 2024. Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day are the only days Filoli is closed. Day time hours are 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with tickets for adults priced at $35 and children’s tickets at $25. Evening hours are 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. with adult tickets at $45 and children’s tickets $35. Tickets are sold by date and entrance time, with evening admissions often selling out. So purchasing tickets as soon as possible is advised.
Purchasing a Holidays at Filoli ticket is really like buying a double event ticket. A single ticket includes a self-guided tour of the mansion as well as a self-guided tour of the formal gardens. Throughout the many mansion rooms are 24 living Christmas trees, each adorned with some of the more than 7,000 colorful ornaments owned by the estate. Wreaths decorate many of the walls, holiday floral arrangements sit on tables, and pine branches intertwined with tinsel lie on the fireplace mantels. There are 3,600 strands of lights in the formal gardens, comprising 159,600 individual bulbs. They reach over 25 miles, decorating shrubs, hedges, smaller trees, and even some planting beds. Many of the enormous majestic trees are lit up with colorful blue, yellow or pink filtered lights. This year there is a 210-foot tunnel of lights which change colors and patterns as you walk through.
The Quail Cafe is open during all Holidays at Filoli hours and serves hot drinks, beer, wine, and foods like sandwiches, soups, and desserts. There is a gift shop filled with holiday ornaments, gardening themed items, Filoli clothing, chocolate confections, and other gifts. There is also a nursery stall which sells plants grown in the Filoli greenhouses. There are numerous small events on certain days or evenings within the Holidays at Filoli event, such as Holiday tea seatings, Santa days, wreath making parties, and guided tours.
Filoli is a world class venue that for good reason was recently chosen to host government officials from around the world at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference. There were special preparations made to make the foreign dignitaries feel special and welcome. During the Holidays at Filoli event, they make local visitors from all walks of life feel special and welcome too.
Daniel O’Donnell is the co-owner and operator of an organic landscape design/build company in Fremont. www.Chrysalis-Gardens.com
San Leandro City Council
December 4, 2023
Consent Calendar
- First Reading of an Ordinance to Amend San Leandro Municipal Code Section 1-3-100 to Modify the Community Police Review Board’s Membership Structure
- Second Reading and Adoption of an Ordinance for a Zoning Map Amendment to Rezone a 3.45-acre site located at 14143-14273 Washington Avenue from Commercial Community with an Assembly Use Overlay to Industrial General; Alameda County Assessor’s Parcel Numbers 77B-1222-3-3, 77B-1222-4-3, 77B-1222-5-3, 77B-1222-6-15, 77B-1222-6-17, 77B-1222-6-18, and 77B-1222-6-19; Richard Poolis (applicant); First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc. (property owner)
- Approve Amendment No. 2 to the Legal Services Agreement Between the City of San Leandro and Castillo, Moriarty, Tran & Robinson for Tort Litigation Services Attachments
- Amend the Non-Represented Part-Time Salary Schedule to Include a Wage Adjustment to Comply with the State Minimum Wage Effective January 1, 2024
- Approve Policies and Procedures for Providing Priority Sewer Service to Affordable Housing Projects
- Authorize a Consulting Services Agreement with ConvergeOne for a Data Center Server Upgrade in the Amount of $388,385 and Authorize an Individual Amendment Up to 10% (or $38,836) of the Original Agreement
- First Reading of Two Ordinances: 1. Establish Compensation of Councilmembers; and 2. Establish Compensation of the Mayor Staff Report. Passed 6-1 (Ballew, Nay)
Mayor Juan Gonzalez Aye
Victor Aguilar Aye
Bryan Azevedo Aye
Pete Ballew Aye, 1 Nay
Xouhoa Bowen Aye
Celina Reynes Aye
Fred Simon Aye
San Lorenzo Unified School District
December 5, 2023
Action Items
- East Bay Arts High School Location and Grade Configuration. Motion: Continue the exploration of relocating East Bay Arts to the previous location which is currently occupied by Royal Sunset High School. Vote: 2-3 (Gonzalez, Nay; Medina, Nay; Sinegal, Nay)
Consent Calendar
- Certificated Human Resources Report
- Classified Human Resources Report
- Warrant Ratification
- Ratification of the Agreement with R&S Overhead Garage Door Inc.
- CDE Foundation Agreement (Solutions Roundtable)
- Memorandum of Understanding with Santa Clara County Office of Education for Migrant Education Program
- Resolution No. 3800, Mid-year revisions to the Authorized Signature Cards to the Alameda County Superintendent of Schools
- Change Order #3 to the contract with Bana Builders, Inc. for the Modernization Project at Washington Manor Middle School
- Extension of the Agreement with Informed K12 for Automation and Digital Forms Solution
- Ratification of the Agreement with Cedar Mechanical for Heating Unit Replacement at the Bay Elementary School Campus
- Advertising signage in Southland Mall
- Two-month digital advertising campaign for student enrollment and employee recruitment for the 2023-24 school year
President Kyla Sinegal Aye
Juan Campos Aye
Alicia Gonzalez Aye
Samuel Medina Aye
Penny Peck Aye
Student Board Members Faris Eltaki and Camila Guizar were present.
Alameda County Fire Log
Submitted By ACFD
Saturday, December 2
- Alameda County Fire Department responded to a car into an occupied home in Cherryland. ACFD Firefighters took over 20 minutes to extricate a driver who was trapped after using hydraulic tools, including the Jaws of Life. The patient was transported to Eden Hospital with major injuries.
Alameda County Sheriff’s Log
Submitted By ACSO
Wednesday, December 6
- Deputies responded to a residential burglary in progress on Keith Avenue in Castro Valley. No one was on scene when deputies arrived, but the suspect returned and was detained. He was in possession of stolen property from the residence and drug paraphernalia.
BART Police Log
Submitted By BART PD
Saturday, December 2
- At 12:30 a.m. a man identified by police as Howard Pasley, 59, from San Leandro was contacted at San Leandro station regarding a report of indecent exposure. Pasley was arrested and booked into Santa Rita Jail for outstanding warrants.
- At 9:15 a.m. a man identified by police as Robert McClanahan, 57, a transient, was contacted at Bay Fair station for fare evasion. McClanahan was found to have a No Bail warrant for petty theft out of ACSO. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
- At 4:44 p.m. a person identified by police as Taylor Wynette, 47, from Fremont was contacted in the paid area of Union City station. Wynette was taken into custody on an outstanding warrant. Wynette was booked into Alameda County Jail.
Sunday, December 3
- At 7:45 a.m. a person identified by police as Elizarraga Aguilar, 20, from Hayward was taken into custody outside Hayward station. Aguilar was booked into Alameda County Jail for trespassing on transit related property.
- At 5:34 p.m. a woman identified by police as Erica Hency, 41, from Red Bluff was contacted on the platform of Bay Fair station. She was taken into custody for possession of burglary tools, a controlled substance and drug paraphenalia. Hency was booked into Alameda County Jail.
Monday, December 4
- At 9:05 a.m. a man identified by police as David Brown, 33, from Oakland was contacted at Bay Fair station. He was found to have a No Bail warrant for grand theft out of Alameda County. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Tuesday, December 5
- At 9:01 p.m. a man identified by police as Derek Robinson, 59, from San Francisco was contacted for fare evasion at Bay Fair station. He was taken into custody for possession of a controlled substance, drug paraphenalia and a switchblade knife. Robinson was booked into Alameda County Jail.
- At 10:35 p.m. a man identified by police as Hector Randeros, 38, age from Hayward was contacted for fare evasion at Hayward station. He was taken into custody for an outstanding arrest warrant. Randeros was booked into Alameda County Jail.
Wednesday, December 6
- At 7:48 a.m. a transient identified by police as Burnell Spottedthunder, 51, was found to have a misdemeanor warrant for $7,500. He was also and found to be in possession of narcotics for sale. Spottedthunder was issued a Prohibition Order and booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Union City Police Department Conducting DUI Patrols
Submitted By Union City PD
On Saturday, December 16, the Union City Police Department will conduct a driver license/driving under the influence (DUI) checkpoint from at an undisclosed location.
DL/DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of DL/DUI checkpoints are to promote public safety by taking suspected impaired drivers off the road.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Sgt. Fong said. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves traffic safety.”
The Union City Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.
Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.
Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Fremont Police Log
Submitted By Fremont PD
Wednesday, November 22
- Officers responded to a victim bleeding from the arm and screaming for medical assistance on the 41000 block of Albrae St. Fremont Fire Department responded to provide medical aid. The victim had been in a physical altercation with a subject, but the stab wound was not consistent with an intentional stabbing. There were also several sharp objects near where the altercation occurred. Officers located the subject in an RV nearby. Witnesses advised that the subject was the primary aggressor in the altercation, and officers arrested him. The victim was taken to a regional hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.
- Multiple callers reported a subject at a grocery store on Mowry Ave. brandishing a pocketknife. The subject had also been throwing groceries and damaged the store’s floral display. The subject fled the scene on foot, but officers located him nearby and arrested him.
Thursday, November 23
- An officer was driving on I-880 when he observed a subject driving more than 110 miles per hour, weaving in and out of traffic, and nearly colliding with several vehicles. The officer followed the vehicle to conduct a traffic enforcement stop. Near Stevenson Blvd., the vehicle suddenly turned to drive across all lanes of I-880, causing several other vehicles to brake abruptly to avoid being hit. The subject vehicle took the exit and started to accelerate, but yielded in a parking lot after the officer activated his emergency lighting equipment. The driver said he was running late to his child’s birthday party and knew the officer was attempting to pull him over. Officers arrested the driver.
Friday, November 24
- Officers responded to an armed robbery that had recently occurred at a liquor store on the 4900 block of Stevenson Blvd. A subject threatened the clerk with a firearm and took more than $1,000 in cash from the register and another employee’s purse. The subject fled in a vehicle. This case remains under investigation.
- In the late evening dispatch received calls regarding sideshow activity in the Gateway Blvd. and Bayside Pkwy. area. Approximately 200 vehicles had taken over the intersection, and some subjects were pointing lasers and setting off fireworks. Numerous officers responded based on well-established response plans, and the group began to disperse in various directions. Officers utilized camera technology to track sideshow participants throughout the city actively. Patrol units followed multiple groups throughout the city until they were pushed to northbound I-880. Officers recovered a stolen vehicle from the original sideshow location.
Sunday, November 26
- Security from an apartment complex on Quantum Dr. reported multiple subjects attempting to break into vehicles in the parking garage. The subjects were seen fleeing the scene on foot. Officers responded, locating seven auto burglary victims and one dumped stolen vehicle. This case remains under investigation.
Monday, November 27
- An officer located a vehicle associated with an attempted auto theft in a nearby city. The vehicle was later determined to be an unreported stolen vehicle. The officer tried to stop the vehicle, but it continued fleeing at a high rate of speed. This case remains under investigation.
Holiday Gift Card Scam Prompts Warning from Bay Area Police Department
Submitted by San Leandro Patch
A clever new scam spurred an East Bay police department to share a detailed warning as residents shop for presents this holiday season. On December 4, the Pinole Police Department shared an explainer video after scammers struck at a local store. Using popular Amazon gift cards, patrol sergeant Barry Duggan demonstrated how it all works and why it can be easy for shoppers to miss.
Duggan explained that each card comes in an envelope with a visible bar code on the outside, which is what gets scanned at the cash register and loads the value onto the card. Inside the envelope, the card itself has a scratch tab on top, concealing a code that gives access to the funds – provided the card has been activated. “The scam that we saw was that somebody was taking all these cards from the store without paying for them, and without loading them up, and taking them home,” Duggan said. “What they do is they heat up these envelopes to where they can open them as carefully as they can, remove the card, and actually cut the top of the card off.” After securing the section with the code, Duggan said the scammer puts the remaining part of the card back into the envelope and reglues it shut before sneaking what looks like an unaltered gift card back onto store shelves. Then, the scammer waits until an unsuspecting victim purchases the card, activating the stolen code and giving them access to the funds.
The scam has hit other parts of NorCal this season, too. Authorities in Sacramento said December 6 that they caught a man acting suspiciously inside a Target during an effort deemed “Operation Night Elf.” In that case, detectives said the man was discovered to have taken more than 5,000 gift cards from Target and Apple stores. Police have a few ideas to help shoppers from unknowingly becoming a victim.
“What we’re advising to do is when you guys are buying gift cards, either feel for the entire card – it should be the same size as a credit card – or, with permission from the store, when you go up to purchase these … remove them from these folders and make sure that the whole card is there,” Duggan said.
Hayward Police Log
Submitted By HPD
Saturday, November 11
- At 7:54 a.m. officers responded to the report of a carjacking near the intersection of Calaroga Ave. and Linfield Ln. Officers did an area check and located the occupied vehicle near A St. and Meekland Ave. The occupants were detained, and the victim positively identified the driver as the same person who carjacked him. The driver was taken into custody and the car was released to the victim.
- At 8:19 p.m. a victim was approached by a suspect near the 300 block of A St. and took the victim’s phone. When the victim tried to get his phone back, the suspect used force and fled the area on foot.
Monday, November 20
- At 5:13 p.m. officers located an occupied stolen vehicle near the 24000 block of Mission Blvd. Officers conducted a vehicle stop and took the driver into custody.
Friday, November 24
- At 2:36 p.m. the suspect entered the victim business near the 22000 block of Mission Blvd. The suspect took items from the business and left without paying for the merchandise. When approached by employees, the suspect simulated being armed with a gun and fled the area on foot. Officers did an area check and located the man a short distance away. Business employees positively identified the man in the robbery. The man was taken into custody.
Saturday, November 25
- At 6:22 a.m. the victim was approached by the suspect near the 22000 block of Meekland Ave. The suspect brandished a gun, took property from the victim, and fled the scene in a vehicle.
Holiday Crime Prevention Tips
Submitted By San Leandro Police Department
Holiday Shopping
The holiday season is a time for crimes of opportunity. Keep these tips in mind this season:
- Do not walk and text or use your phone. It is important to watch where you are going and be aware of your surroundings.
- Don’t be distracted! Jewelry thefts are on the rise; if you are distracted; you won’t see them coming to take your possessions.
- Don’t leave packages in plain view in your vehicle – put them in your trunk, before you get to your location.
- If you will not be home for deliveries, have your items delivered to a neighbor who will be home or to your office.
- Hold on to your money: Always carry your purse tucked tightly under your arm, or don’t carry one at all. Put your money and only necessary cards in your front pants pocket where it harder for a thief to reach.
- Don’t park in secluded or dark areas of the parking lot. Be patient and courteous while parking. • Try not to be the last to leave the store. Leave when the stores are still open and there are plenty of other shoppers in the parking lot.
- Shopping with kids? Teach them to go to a store clerk or security guard if you get separated.
- When you get home, remember this home safety reminder: Approximately 50% of all burglars enter the house via unlocked or open doors and/or windows. Keep all doors, including your garage door, closed and locked. Don’t display gifts where they can be seen from outside.
Holiday Travel
- Get an automatic timer for the lights in your home.
- Ask a neighbor to watch your home and perhaps park a vehicle in your driveway.
- Have a neighbor or family member pickup newspaper and mail deliveries.
When You Are Out For The Evening
- Turn on lights and a radio or TV so it looks and sounds like somebody is home.
- Lock doors and windows even if you leave for just a few minutes.
- Don’t display gifts where they can be seen from the outside.
Newark’s Holiday Season Traffic Safety Plan
Submitted By Newark Police Department
National “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” Enforcement Campaign Begins December 13, 2023. Make this a holiday season to remember: Celebrate responsibly with a “Go Safely” game plan.
The holiday season can be a dangerous time for people on the roads. In December 2021 alone, 1,013 people were killed in the U.S. in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Newark Police Department wants to remind the public of the dangers of driving impaired and celebrate the holiday season responsibly by not driving under the influence.
From December 13 through New Year’s Day, Newark Police Department will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. The high-visibility enforcement effort is part of a national campaign, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over, with the goal of stopping suspected impaired drivers who put others on the road at risk.
“Impaired driving isn’t just dangerous, it’s illegal,” Traffic Officer Mitchell Frentescu said. “Let’s make this a joyful and safe holiday season for everyone on the road. This enforcement period allows us to get the message out that it is essential to act responsibly and plan a sober ride home.”
The Newark Police Department encourages everyone to stay in for the night or have a “go safely” game plan by scheduling a ride or designating a sober driver if you plan to consume alcohol.
Impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Marijuana, prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs may also impair. Do your research and understand how certain drugs may affect your driving ability.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Milpitas Police Log
Submitted By Milpitas PD
Thursday, November 30
- At 11:49 p.m. our Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) alerted officers to a vehicle associated with a felony theft that occurred in our city. The suspect stole approximately $15,000 worth of construction material. Officers quickly found the vehicle and arrested the driver, a 44-year-old male from San Jose. The driver was booked into jail for three counts of felony grand theft, traffic violations, and two additional warrants from a neighboring agency.
Friday, December 1
- At 1:13 a.m. a midnight shift officer was patrolling the parking lot of commercial businesses near the 1550 Block of Landess Ave. when they contacted a 38-year-old male from Castro Valley. The person was in possession of narcotics, drug paraphernalia, and had an outstanding warrant for theft. He attempted to flee but was quickly taken into custody. The suspect was booked into jail for a warrant, narcotics violations, and resisting arrest.
Saturday, December 2
- At 7:50 a.m. a dayshift officer contacted a 34-year-old female from Salinas near the 300 Block of Ranch Dr. She had multiple outstanding warrants for theft, burglary, and narcotics. The suspect was arrested and booked into jail for the warrants, providing false identification to a police officer, and additional narcotics violations.
Sunday, December 3
- At 12:22 a.m. a midnight shift officer contacted a 42-year-old female near the 1000-Blk of Hillview Ct. The female was arrested after officers found over 50 grams of methamphetamine in her possession. She was booked into jail for possessing the methamphetamine with the intent to sell.
Newark Police Log
Submitted By Newark PD
Monday, November 20
- 10:05 a.m.: Officer Williams arrested a 31-year-old male out of Newark for being drunk in public. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Tuesday, November 21
- 9:58 a.m.: Officer Jackman investigated a commercial burglary via a front door smash on Stevenson Boulevard. The loss was one hundred dollars.
- 9:05 a.m.: Officer Losier investigated an auto burglary via window smash in an apartment complex parking lot on Sycamore Street. The loss was a vehicle diagnostic scanner. The theft occurred overnight.
- 3:52 PM: Officer Losier investigated the theft of a vehicle from the 6300 block of Buena Vista Drive. The theft occurred overnight.
Wednesday, November 22
- 8:27 p.m.: Officer Williams responded to a disturbance on Cherry Street involving a 29-year-old adult male out of Newark for being drunk in public. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
- 10:08 p.m.: Officer Riddles arrested a 30-year-old female out of Hayward for domestic violence. She was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Thursday, November 23
- 1:38 a.m.: Officer Kapu investigated a vehicle collision and arrested a 21-year-old male out of Oakley for driving under the influence. The driver struck a couple of trees, a vehicle in a driveway and a city light pole. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Friday, November 24
- 9:01 a.m.: Officers responded to a road-rage incident where a firearm may have been brandished. Multiple involved subjects were contacted, and a consent search resulted in the location of two properly registered firearms in a vehicle. The victim ultimately did not desire prosecution.
- 10:07 a.m.: During a traffic enforcement stop, Officer Quinonez arrested a 40-year-old male out of Newark for possession of a controlled substance. He was issued a citation and was released from the scene.
- 11:34 a.m.: A 39-year-old male out of Newark was arrested for felony domestic violence in the 7300 block of Carter Avenue. He was booked at Santa Rita Jail.
- 6:41 p.m.: Officers responded to a report of a vehicle colliding into a backyard fence. Officers contacted the driver, a 25-year-old male out of Roseville, and determined that he was under the influence. Officer Kapu arrested him for DUI and he was booked at Santa Rita Jail.
Saturday, November 25
- 8:36 a.m.: Officer Frentescu investigated an attempted catalytic converter theft. Homeowners on the 7500 block of Shady Hollow Drive chased off a suspect while another suspect fled in a vehicle.
- 11:28 a.m.: Officers contacted a 48-year-old male out of Newark who was found to have an arrest warrant for theft and possession of burglary tools. He was issued a citation and released on scene.
Sunday, November 26
- 12:29 a.m.: Officers Soto and Kapu investigated a report of a domestic dispute and arrested a 25-year-old male out of Newark for domestic violence. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
- 8:27 p.m.: Officers responded to a vacant business on Newark Boulevard after receiving reports of a trespasser on the property. Upon arrival, officers contacted a 41-year-old male out of Newark riding his bike to the rear of the business. Officers conducted a search of his person and located drug paraphernalia. He was issued a citation and released from the scene. Officers searched the business and located a 34-year-old male out of Menlo Park inside. He was arrested for trespassing and also issued a citation.
15th Annual Guru Nanak Marathon
Submitted by Sikh Sports
On Saturday, December 16, Sikh Sports Association will be hosting their 15th Annual Guru Nanak Marathon at Quarry Lakes in Fremont. Multiple events will be run, including a 2 mile, 5K and half marathon. The 2-mile run exclusively for kids U12 and U14. The other two events are open for those ages 19 – 60+.
Online registration will close December 12, but last-minute registrations will be taken the day of the event.
Guru Nanak Marathon
Saturday, Dec 16
7:30 a.m.
Quarry Lakes, Fremont
sikhsports@gmail.com
Registration fees: $10 – $50
Holiday Skate at Sharks Ice
Submitted by Sharks Ice Fremont
Get into the holiday spirit this season by ice skating with your friends and family. Sharks Ice facility in Fremont is open for public skate with special hours, including adult only hours, in December. Sharks Ice is also offering 10% off all Sharks merchandise through the end of the Holiday Ice for the perfect gift for that Sharks fan.
For more information visit www.sharksiceatfremont.com.
Little League and Softball Registrations Open Now
By Staff
The year is coming to a close, which means Little Leagues and Girls Softball teams are gearing up for their next season. Below is a list of Little Leagues and Softball Leagues, with their websites or contact information, around the Tri-City area that are now taking registrations for the 2024 Spring Season. Some of the leagues are still open for Early Bird registration for the next few weeks, so act fast to get discounted registration.
Castro Valley Little League – www.castrovalleylittleleague.org
Fremont Centerville Little League – www.fcllbaseball.com
Fremont Girls Softball Association – www.teamspages.com/organizations/15239
Milpitas National Little League – www.milpitaslll.com
Mt. Eden Little League – mtedenlittleleague.org
Niles Centerville Little League – www.ncll.us
Newark Little League – www.newarkcalittleleague.com
Newark Girls Softball League – www.ngsl.info
San Leandro/ Ashland Little League – sanleandrolittleleague.com
San Leandro Girls Softball – www.sanleandrogirlssoftball.com
San Lorenzo Little League – www.slzll.org
San Lorenzo Girls Softball League – www.slzgsl.org
Tennyson American Little League – talittleleague@gmail.com / Tennyson American Little League Facebook
Local Running Club is Bringing Home the National Cross Country Title
Submitted by Mike Exton
Despite severe weather, including an almost 2-hour delay due to lighting, the California Grizzles 9/10 boys’ cross-country team fought through mud, water, and torrential rain to come out on top as National Champions. The team (Maximilian Och, Vihaan Sharma, Max Kullar, Cameron Owsley, Carrick Zhang, and Adithya Nalluri) is part of the California Grizzlies Running Club, led by Coach Mike Exton and Assistant Coach Francis David.
Five of the team members, not only helped the team bring home the gold from the AAU National Cross-Country Championships in Tallahassee, Florida, but they also finished among the top 25 runners in the nation, earning them “ALL-AMERICAN” merit, along with the National Champion Title. The boys have been training since August across the Bay Area (including Fremont and Castro Valley) and are expected to put 100% effort into each training session, often reaching PR’s (person records). We are proud to have the team come out on top and bring the National Title back to the Bay Area!
Earning “ALL-AMERICAN” honors among the California Grizzlies were 11 team members: Rosalind Fennelly (7th place), Charlene Evangelista (16th), Zichun Shen (25th), Diya Nalluri (9th), Harish Paschapur (24th), Maximilian Och (6th), Vihaan Sharma (13th), Max Kullar (20th), Cameron Owsley (24th), Carrick Zhang (11th), and Krish Shah (18th)
Join us in giving the Grizzlies a warm welcome home from their long, wet and cold hard-fought battle!
Pioneer Named CCAA Men's Basketball Player of the Week
Submitted by CSUEB Athletic Communications
After an outstanding opening week in conference play for Cal State East Bay men’s basketball, Dimitros Klonaras was named CCAA Men’s Basketball Player of the Week for the week of November 27 through December 3.
As the Pioneers started CCAA action with a pair of wins on the road, Klonaras averaged 20 points a game last week and 7.5 rebounds per game. In Saturday’s overtime win at Cal State Monterey Bay, Klonaras finished with a double-double that included 22 points and 10 rebounds. He went 10-for-19 from the floor and made a free throw. Also in the game, Klonaras had a block and four steals in the victory.
To open conference play on Thursday at Stanislaus State, Klonaras scored 18 points going 7-for-14 from the floor and made two free throws.
Defining the Sunol Glen School District Flag Controversy
The essential question about the Sunol Glen School District controversy is: Should taxpayer-supported public schools fly the LGBTQ+ Progress Pride flag, the Christian flag, the Masonic flag, or any other factional flag?
If the answer to the question is yes, then other questions follow: Who decides which non-governmental flags can fly and which cannot fly? Who decides where and when? Can public individuals and groups make requests for flying their flags? Are there legal implications in making these choices? California Government Code § 431 requires that the U.S. and California flags be flown at public buildings.
The issue is the flying of the flag at public schools, not the flag itself. Flags representing one’s vision of pride, freedom, liberty, and human rights can be flown on one’s own property. This is not a civil rights issue.
Arguments in favor of flying the LGBTQ+ flag typically sidestep the essential question whether sectarian flags should be flown at public institutions. The most common responses are ad hominem attacks (those who disagree are anti-LGBTQ), strawman rhetoric (defenses against arguments that are not being made), and allegations that harm will occur to LGBTQ people if the flag is not flown prominently, a poor argument that can be made about any group.
The Sunol Glen School Board made the correct decision in allowing only the U.S. and California flags to be flown there. Supporters of this decision should not be recalled for doing their duty.
- Szto
Fremont
Parent of Sunol Glen students
- Berti
Moraga
CA Parents Advocates
British research ship crosses paths with world`s largest iceberg as it drifts out of Antarctica
By Sylvia Hui
Associated Press
Dec 05, 2023
LONDON (AP) __ Britain’s polar research ship has crossed paths with the largest iceberg in the world a “lucky” encounter that enabled scientists to collect seawater samples around the colossal berg as it drifts out of Antarctic waters, the British Antarctic Survey said Monday.
The RRS Sir David Attenborough, which is on its way to Antarctica for its first scientific mission, passed the mega iceberg known as the A23a on Friday near the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula.
The iceberg – equivalent to three times the size of New York City and more than twice the size of Greater London – had been grounded for more than three decades in the Weddell Sea after it split from the Antarctic's Filchner Ice Shelf in 1986.
It began drifting in recent months, and has now moved into the Southern Ocean, helped by wind and ocean currents. Scientists say it is now likely to be swept along into “iceberg alley” – a common route for icebergs to float toward the sub- Antarctic island of South Georgia.
“It is incredibly lucky that the iceberg's route out of the Weddell Sea sat directly across our planned path, and that we had the right team aboard to take advantage of this opportunity,” said Andrew Meijers, chief scientist aboard the research ship.
“We're fortunate that navigating A23a hasn't had an impact on the tight timings for our science mission, and it is amazing to see this huge berg in person – it stretches as far as the eye can see,” he added.
Laura Taylor, a scientist working on the ship, said the team took samples of ocean surface waters around the iceberg`s route to help determine what life could form around it and how the iceberg and others like it impact carbon in the ocean.
“We know that these giant icebergs can provide nutrients to the waters they pass through, creating thriving ecosystems in otherwise less productive areas. What we don't know is what difference particular icebergs, their scale, and their origins can make to that process,” she said.
The RRS Sir David Attenborough, named after the British naturalist, is on a 10- day science trip that`s part of a 9-million-pound ($11.3 million) project to investigate how Antarctic ecosystems and sea ice drive global ocean cycles of carbon and nutrients.
The British Antarctic Survey said its findings will help improve understanding of how climate change is affecting the Southern Ocean and the organisms that live there.
Moreau Catholic Mariners cruise past Mission San Jose Warriors 4-0
By Vidyuth Sridhar
On December 8, the Moreau Catholic High School Mariners’ (Hayward) Varsity Boys Soccer team battled the Mission San Jose High School Warriors (Fremont) at Tak Fudenna Memorial Stadium in a regular-season contest, prevailing 4-0.
The Mariners sprung on the offensive from the opening kick, with midfielder Farzad Aftab repeatedly challenging the Warriors’ defense. “I was really excited and pumped up [to play Mission San Jose] because it was my old school, and I knew some of the guys on the team,” Aftab said.
However, the Warriors tenaciously rallied to weather the Mariners’ staunch offense – drawing on their mobile defensive backs, robust team communication, and saves from goalkeeper Varchas Kukreja in the first half to repel numerous Mariner attacks. Despite Mission San Jose’s defensive effort, the Mariners continued to dominate possession of the ball and drive deep into Warrior territory – finally connecting with the net in the 25th minute to lead 1-0 at halftime.
Though largely outmatched in the first 40 minutes, the Warriors seemed rejuvenated early in the second half, with striker Yoseph Almahdi and midfielder Satyajith Kesanapally breaking through the midfield to pressure Moreau’s defenders. However, the Mariners rapidly recovered, smothering the Warriors’ counterattack and notching three goals in the span of 20 minutes to definitively seal the game.
In addition to their strong offense, Moreau’s burgeoning team chemistry was apparent throughout the game. The team’s bench and supporters in the crowd continually encouraged the players on the field, and erupted in cheer after every Mariner goal. “I think we’re building really good chemistry among teammates, and we’re savoring the David versus Goliath mentality. We already [beat] a [North Coast Section] Division 4 and Division 3 team, and we got a Division 2 team today,” Mariner head coach Enrique Garcia said.
The Mariners compete next at home against the American High School Eagles (Fremont) on Wednesday, December 13, at 6 p.m., whilst the Warriors challenge the James Logan High School Colts (Union City) in Tak Fudenna Memorial Stadium on December 13 at 4 p.m.
Continuing Events:
First and Third Tuesdays
Mobile Food Distribution with Tri-City Volunteers
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Bring your own bag.
Fremont Adult and Continuing Education
4700 Calaveras Ave., Fremont
(510) 793-6465
tri-cityvolunteers.org/food
Tuesdays
A Matter of Balance R
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels of older adults. Space is limited. Call or email to register.
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529, (510) 742-7540
issuu.com/hsdept
Tuesdays
East Bay Games Meet
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
German/Euro style board games and card games.
Swiss Park
5911 Mowry Ave., Newark
(510) 936-2523
meetup.com/east-bay-games
sfdavidkaye@yahoo.com
Tuesdays, September 19 – May 28
It's Storytime
1:30 pm – 2:00 pm
Stories, finger plays, nursery rhymes, songs, and musical instruments for kids ages 18 month- 6 yrs.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
aclibrary.org/locations/FRM/
fremontchildrens@aclibrary.org
Tuesdays, November 7 – December 26
Lego Time
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Use your imagination and engineering skills to create your own LEGO® designs. Supervision required for kids 7 and under.
Centerville library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
aclibrary.org/locations/CTV/
fremontneighborhood@aclibrary.org
Tuesdays, March 21 – December 19
Chess Mix
12:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Drop in for some casual chess games.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
aclibrary.org/locations/SLZ
Tuesdays, November 7 – December 19
Music and Storytime
11:30 am – 12:15 pm
Join for stories, music, and movement.
Cherryland Community Center
278 Hampton Road, Hayward
(510) 626-8522
aclibrary.org/locations/CHY/
Second Tuesdays, June 13 – January 9
Monthly Covid and Flu Vaccine Clinic
3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Get free Covid Booster. Appointments suggested.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 268-210
cutt.ly/Cwdxmlma
Wednesdays
Zumba Gold $
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Workout while dancing
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
issuu.com/hsdept
Wednesdays
Ping Pong
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Activities for people with Parkinson
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
issuu.com/hsdept
mtorrez@fremont.gov
Wednesdays, December 13 – December 20
Drop-in Holiday Crafts
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Children and their families are invited to create a holiday craft at their own pace.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Wednesdays, October 11 – December 27
Manitas en Acción
4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Combination of reading books, hands-on crafts and learning about culture in Spanish.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
aclibrary.org/locations/NWK/
Wednesdays
Tropics Bingo
7:00 pm
Flash games
Tropics Mobile Home Park
33000 Almaden Blvd., Union City
(510) 471-8550
the-tropics.net/activites
Thursdays & Saturdays
Story Time
10:30 am – 11:00 am
Picture book story time
Banter Bookshop
3768 Capitol Ave. Ste. F., Fremont
(510) 565-1004
bit.ly/3VFpbcz
Thursday – Sunday
Animal Feeding
3:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Feed livestock and learn about their favorite food
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757
ebparks.org/parks/ardenwood#events
Admission fee applies.
Thursday – Sunday, November 9 – December 16
Ingrid Wells Emotional Support Paintings
12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Virtual and in person Exhibit
Olive Hyde Art Gallery
123 Washington Blvd., Fremont
(510) 791-4357
olivehydeartguild.org
Thursdays and Tuesdays, November 9 – May 23
Literacy Enrichment Program R
4:00 pm – 5:45 pm
Supporting struggling readers through personalized lessons and dedicated one-on-one tutoring from enthusiastic volunteers.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1421
aclibrary.org/locations/FRM/
fremontchildrens@aclibrary.org
Email to register.
Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, December 1 – December 17
Play “The Man Who Saved Christmas” R$
Fridays and Saturdays: 8 pm
Sundays: 2:00 pm.
Chanticleers Theatre
3683 Quail Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 733-5483
chanticleers.org
Fridays and Saturdays
Telescope Viewings
7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Experience the awe and wonder of the universe.
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
chabotspace.org/events
Fridays – Sundays, December 1 – December 17
Christmas at the Patterson House R$
11:00 am – 2:30 pm
Celebrate a turn of the 20th century holiday at a beautifully restored Queen Anne mansion.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757
Admission fee applies.
Fridays, October 13 – December 15
Mat and Chair Yoga R
9:45 am – 10:45 am
Learn to relax your body and do breathing and stretching techniques using pranayama.
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
anc.apm.activecommunities.com/fremont
Fridays, January 20 – January 5
Knit & Crochet Circle
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Learn knitting and crocheting.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
sccld.org/locations/milpitas
Fridays, December 1 – December 29
Woodland Wonderland
3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Join us after school to learn about a new plant or animal of the oak woodland. Age: 3 yrs +, mixed.
Del Valle Visitor Center
7000 Del Valle Road, Livermore
(510) 544-3146
Adult Participation Required.
First & Third Friday, July 21 – December 15
Mobile Food Distribution
10:30 am – 11:30 am
Food distribution for the first 80 families Please bring your own bag.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1444
aclibrary.org/locations/FRM/
Third Saturdays, August 19 – December 16
Yoga For Beginners
10:30 am – 11:45 am
Beginners’ yoga for all adults and teens
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
aclibrary.org/locations/csv/
Saturdays, September 9 – December 30
Computer Crew: Teen Tech Help
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
One-on-one tutor on basic tech issues
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
aclibrary.org/locations/csv/
Saturdays
Laugh Track City R$
8:00 pm
Series of improvised games and scenes
Made Up Theatre
4000 Bay St. suite B., Fremont
(510) 573-3633
madeuptheatre.com
Saturdays, May 27 – December 30
Divine Satsang Sabha
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Know techniques of living a virtuous, harmonious, & meaningful life
SMVS (Shri Swaminarayan Mandir)
36665 Cedar Blvd, Newark
(650) 585-5325
smvs.org/centers/centerdetail/106
Saturdays
Free Beginner Pickleball Lesson
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Free pickleball lesson for beginners, taught by a USPA professional. Drop-in. Weather permitting.
Hall Memorial Park
304 La Honda Dr, Milpitas
(408) 586-3210
First and Third Saturdays, September 2 – February 17
Book Sale
10:30 am – 3:30 pm
Pop in the bookstore on the first floor for some great deals!
Hayward Public Library
888 C St., Hayward
(510) 293-8685
hayward.librarycalendar.com
First and Third Saturdays
Pacific Bus Museum $
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Open house
Pacific Bus Museum
37974 Shinn St., Fremont
pacbus.org
Sundays
Weekly meditation Session R
8:30 am – 9:30 am
Explore the effortless way to ultimate bliss.
India Community Center
525 Los Coches St., Milpitas
(408) 934-1130
samarpanmeditationusa.org
Sunday – Saturday
Recreational Swim $
12:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Attractions may vary.
Silliman Activity and Family Aquatic Center
6800 Mowry Ave., Newark
(510) 578-4620
bit.ly/3nxo0is
Mondays & Thursdays
Fruit Tree Gleaning
9:00 am – 10:30 am
Donate fresh fruits from your garden.
LEAF CR Stone Garden
55 Mowry Ave., Fremont
fremontleaf.org/glean
Mondays – Thursdays, December 5 – January 24
Homework Help Center
3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Offer primary and secondary students the opportunity to receive FREE homework assistance. Suitable for: kids, teens.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
aclibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/
Mondays – Thursdays, December 5 – January 24
Homework Help Center
3:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Get your homework questions answered for grades K-8. Suitable for: kids, teens.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
aclibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/
Drop-in.
Mondays, December 18 – May 20
Advanced Math + Science Tutoring
5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Offering free high school and college-level tutoring in math, physics, and chemistry.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Monday – Thursday, December 11 – December 21
Free After School Meal
3:30 pm – 4:30 pm
For ages 1-18 only. Children and youth must be present. Food will be distributed in the library lobby while supplies last.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Upcoming Events:
Tuesday, December 12
Holiday Train of Lights $R
4:30 pm
Join the Holiday fun aboard the magical Niles Canyon Railway Train of Lights! Santa Claus will be aboard for pictures.
Niles Canyon Railway Museum
37029 Mission Blvd., Fremont
(925) 862-9063
bayphil.org
Cost: $45
Wednesday – Thursday, December 13 – December 14
Geminids Meteor Shower Viewing $R
11:45 pm – 3:00 am
Join us on our Observation Deck and be dazzled as we make our annual trip through the Geminids Meteor Shower.
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
chabotspace.org/calendar
$15 Adult, $7 Youth, Members Free.
This event is weather permitting.
Wednesday, December 13
Career Ready – Job Search Workshop R
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Learn about the “hidden job market” and job search techniques.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1444
Thursday, December 14
The Art of Repujado R
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Brief presentation on the history and tradition of Repujado, also known as Mexican tin art, then make your own piece of art to take home. For Adults and teens ages, 15 and up.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
Thursday, December 14
Homeschool Pre-Teen Social Hour
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Please come join us if you are a homeschooler interested in making new friends and sharing your interests? For ages 9-13.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Thursday, December 14
Holiday Celebration
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Celebrate the Holidays with a lively performance from the Hula Dance class.
12:00: special meal.
12:30 – 1 pm: hula performance
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7540 for details
Friday, December 15
Sip and Paint: Christmas Chickens $R
9:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Bring your thirst and the desire to be creative! Email SunGallery@Comcast.net to sign-up.
Sun Gallery
1015 E St., Hayward
(510) 581-4050
sungallery.org/event/sip-and-paint-christmas-chickens/
Friday, December 15
Trout Fishing – Intermediate $R
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Learn intermediate techniques of trout fishing including gear selection, rigging, fish behavior, and bait selection.
Ages 15 and younger parent participation and registration is required.
Ages 16 and older requires valid CA Fishing License.
Quarry Lakes Regional Park
2100 Isherwood Way, Fremont
(510) 544-2559
Parking fee applies
Saturday, December 16
Santa At The Firehouse
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Come take a photo with Santa, enjoy cookies and hot chocolate, arts and crafts, and listen to holiday music.
Alameda County Fire Department Station 28
7550 Thornton Ave., Newark
(925) 833-3473
Please bring a new unwrapped toy for entry
Saturday, December 16
Community Closet
9:00 am – 1:00 pm
The Community Closet is a grass roots program provides FREE clothing for ALL.
Studio 11
34626 11th St., Union City
(510) 675-5825
For information call (510) 675-5445
Accept donations.
Saturday, December 16
Winter Concert: Hillside Woodwind Quintet + Montecito Brass Ensemble
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Performing light classics and holiday favorites, and it is for everyone.
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Saturday, December 16
Harmony Fusion Chorus presents “Hittin’ the Holiday Road” $R
2:00 pm
Get in the holiday mood and enjoy an afternoon of festive music with Harmony Fusion Chorus. Post-performance reception in the church fellowship hall.
Tickets: http://www.ticketsource.us/harmony-fusion-chorus.
Our Savior Lutheran Church
1385 S Livermore Ave., Livermore
(925) 447-1246
www.harmonyfusion.org kenitgolabi@gmail.com
Tickets: Advanced purchase $20; at the door $25; children under 12 $10
Saturday, December 16
Photos With Santa
10:30 am – 4:00 pm
Session 1: 10:30 am to 12:30 pm
Session 2: 2 pm to 4 pm.
Tickets are free and required to take photos, will start distributing 30 minutes prior.
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Saturday, December 16
Christmas Crafts Workshop $R
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Get your kids excited for the holiday season with Christmas Crafts Workshop!
Please, bring your own snacks. Ages 5-12 years old
Imaginook
39675 Cedar Blvd., Newark
(214) 864-5133
/www.imaginook.us/kids-events
Price: $65 per participant
Saturday, December 16
Top Shop
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Learn the history of this ancient toy. Make your own wood spinner and compete in a skittles tournament.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757; (510) 544-2797
Admission fee applies.
Saturday, December 16
Eagle Eyes
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Learn some fascinating facts about these majestic raptors as we look for recent activity.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757; (510) 544-2797
Admission fee applies
Saturday, December 16
Christmas at Meek and McConaghy $
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Both Meek Mansion and McConaghy House are decorated for the season and open for self-guided tours.
McConaghy House
18701 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
Meek Estate Park
240 Hampton Rd, Hayward
(510) 881-6700
www.haywardareahistory.org/calendar/
$5 suggested donation
Saturday, December 16
Comedy Shorts Night $R
7:30 pm
The Cure (1917, Lone Star)
There Ain’t No Santa Claus (1926, Hal Roach Studios)
The High Sign (1921, Comique)
Big Business (1929, Hal Roach Studios)
Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum
37417 Niles Blvd., Fremont
(510) 494-1411
Sunday, December 17
Candle Dipping
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Learn the traditional Victorian art of beeswax candle making and make your own candle to take home.
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(888) 327-2757, (510) 544-2797
Admission fee applies.
Sunday, December 17
A Holiday Spectacular! $R
3:00 pm
Conductor Jung-Ho Pak will lead a stocking full of guests accompanied by your fabulous Bay Philharmonic.
Chabot College
25555 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
(510) 723-6600
Sunday, December 17 and 31
Fremont Adult Tabletop Gamers R
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
It is a new event where adults come to play various card games and board games!
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Tuesday, December 19
Art for Children ages 5-7 R
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Calling children, ages 5-7, on a journey of creating art. Child accompanied by an adult is required.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Tuesday, December 19
Learn through Play (Special Needs Friendly)
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Program is designed for children with special needs, open to children of all abilities. For children ages of 5-14. Limited seats available.
Newark Public Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Tuesday, December 19
Adult Yoga R
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
This class was designed by Sadhguru, a foremost authority in the field of yoga, and will be conducted by a trained instructor. For adult 18+ only.
San Lorenzo Library
395 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo
(510) 284-0640
sanlorenzo@aclibrary.org