3-10-20 Articles

Community shows support for agency’s goal to end homelessness

Submitted by Chris De Benedetti

 

Abode Services recently welcomed hundreds of people to its 15th annual Journey Home Breakfast, as the nonprofit group shared past successes and future plans with supporters of the organization.

 

The yearly fundraiser, held Friday, March 6, allows Abode to further its mission of ending homelessness in Alameda, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Santa Cruz, and Napa counties. During breakfast at the Fremont Marriott, supporters made generous donations and pledges that will help Abode continue to serve more than 9,100 individuals each year.

 

Anu Natarajan, a former member of the Fremont City Council, served as the event emcee. She was joined by elected officials, local leaders, and other community members who shared a meal and learned about the powerful impact that Abode’s work is having on those in need.

 

“We couldn’t perform our work without the support of people and organizations in this community,” said Louis Chicoine, Abode Services’ chief executive officer. “So, we’re very thankful for all the friends, neighbors, and businesses that often join together to show us support, and it was gratifying to see our community do that again on Friday.”

 

Individuals at the event shared their stories of how working with Abode helped guide their individual journeys from homelessness into a home. Two Abode participants appeared in a seven-minute Journey Home Video that was screened at the breakfast. Also, an Abode employee served as the fundraiser’s featured live speaker. She chronicled how she spent part of her teen years living without a home and how she now uses that experience in her job helping current Abode participants.

 

To read more about these stories and find a link to watch the video, visit the Abode Services website at www.abodeservices.org.

 

Sponsors for The Journey Home Breakfast were:

• Fremont Bank Foundation
• Indo-Americans for Better Community
• BBI Construction
• Kaiser Permanente
• Lowney Architecture
• Anthem Blue Cross
• Digital Nirvana
• Herman Coliver Locus Architecture
• L&D Construction Co.
• Washington Hospital Healthcare System
• Alameda Alliance for Health
• Bernard, Balgley & Bonaccorsi, LLP
• BKF Engineers
• Gonsalves & Kozachenko, Attorneys at Law
• Heritage Bank of Commerce
• Premier Subaru of Fremont
• Republic Services

 

 

Alameda County Fire Department

Submitted by ACFD

 

Thursday, March 5

• At about 7:30 p.m. firefighters responded to a two-alarm structure fire on Western Avenue in Union City. ACFD units from Alameda County, San Leandro and Newark helped in the effort. There were no injuries and the cause of the blaze is under investigation.

 

 

The Adobe: Vallejo History

By Charlene Dizon

Photos courtesy of Dr. Joyce Blueford

 

The Adobe of California Nursery Company, also known as the Vallejo Adobe, remains one of Niles’ most significant historical structures made from local clay. Having served both commercial to housing purposes, the Adobe is a remarkable symbol of the daily lives that Spanish missions led as well as the legendary impact of Commander Jose de Jesus Vallejo.

 

The Adobe stands in an area that was used initially by Ohlone natives and later by Mission San Jose. The land was ideal due to its proximity to natural resources, from nearby rivers teeming with fish, to forests with acorn seeds and smaller game. Mission San Jose was founded in 1797 to secure Spain’s declaration of the land. Spaniards at the Mission taught local natives about topics such as Christianity and the Spaniard lifestyle. Mission San Jose thrived until the decree of secularization by the Mexican government in the 1830s, which halted the mission system and caused the Ohlone natives to depart and face difficulty in returning to their former lifestyles. The missions were then divided into ranches. During the same decade, Commander Jose de Jesus Vallejo would soon spark the cultivation of wheat within the community.

 

Jose de Jesus Vallejo served as a corporal in the Spanish army. Vallejo also assisted his father, Ignacio Vicente Vallejo, running their family ranch, Rancho Bolsa De San Cayetano in Monterey. After Ignacio’s death in 1832, the ranch was officially registered to Vallejo. He became a civil administrator of Mission San Jose in 1836, where he began to take inventory of the Mission’s properties. Vallejo was later granted 12 acres of the mission’s land in 1840. Here, Vallejo established the region’s first flour mills, where several of the Ohlones would granulate wheat to produce flour. The Ohlones were taught how to construct and manufacture the milling system by Vallejo and his vaqueros. By 1842, Governor Alvarado granted Vallejo the Rancho Arroyo de la Alameda, which is located in an area that is now Union City, Niles, and Mount Eden. The Vallejo Flour Mill was successful and the primary reason behind the initiation of the Adobe Cottage.

 

The Adobe was a one-story building made entirely of bricks shaped from local clay. Built in the early 1800s, the cottage acted as a home for the missionaries’ vaqueros. Once the Vallejo Flour Mill was created, it was also used to store pulverized wheat grain. At roughly 1,080 square feet, the spacious building was utilized to its fullest potential, with every corner of the room used for various purposes: cooking, sleeping, storing supplies, and festivals. Don Vallejo died in 1882, leaving the remains of the Vallejo Flour Mill and the Adobe Cottage to slowly deteriorate. Thankfully, nearly fifty years after Vallejo’s passing, restoration of the Adobe was initiated by the California Nursery.

 

San Franciscan architect Fred Reimers conducted the refurbishment of the adobe property, beginning with making significant changes to ensure the building would maintain its structure as time passed. The original beams of the cottage were left and eucalyptus logs from the Patterson Ranch were used as additional support for the hand-made tiled roof. Kraftile, a more modern customized tile, replaced the cottage’s dirt floor. A new redwood door was installed and specially designed to fit into the round opening. Since the adobe’s original walls had begun to crumble, new adobe bricks were created by skilled Spanish employee Antonio Torquenda to replace and renew the interior. Though the Adobe is no longer a storage unit for grains, it continues to be used by the non-profit Math Science Nucleus (MSN) for educational purposes.

 

Archaeologist and Math Science Nucleus (MSN) Board Member Dr. Karen Anderson includes the Adobe as a home base during her Hoot Owl Night Hikes. Doing so ensures that hike attendees experience both the environment and wildlife in addition to learning about the culture and history of the land. However, Board President of the Math Science Nucleus (MSN) Dr. Joyce Blueford hopes to promote more of Adobe Cottage’s essential history, especially organizing and archiving historical artifacts. “There is so much history and everything is connected,” Dr. Blueford states. “We would appreciate help around the park overall for those who wish to assist in the garden or become a historical docent.” With additional help from volunteers and the City of Fremont, the Adobe Cottage and its history can be respectfully acknowledged and remembered.

 

For more information on volunteer opportunities or becoming a historical docent, please contact the Math Science Nucleus at msn@msnucleus.org or call (510) 790-6284. Historical archiving opportunities are on Wednesdays from 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the California Nursery Historical Park in Niles, Fremont.

 

 

Advanced Placement Art Exhibit

Submitted by Geoff Landreau

 

The Hayward Unified School District, in collaboration with Hayward Arts Council, presents students from Mt. Eden and Tennyson High School’s AP 3D Art and Design, AP 2D Art and Design, and AP Drawing classes will exhibit their work for the first time at the new Hayward Public Library. We’re excited about this new partnership with the Hayward Public Library to bring student artwork out into their beautiful new space.

 

AP or Advanced Placement Art classes are a chance for outstanding students in the art to further their artistic studies through the development of a student-designed inquiry or sustained investigation. These highly motivated students will submit a portfolio to the college board in May for the opportunity to earn college credit in high school for their work.

 

The exhibit runs March 14 to April 30 on the second floor at the new Hayward Public Library. The opening reception will be March 28th from 2 – 4 p.m. with the opportunity to meet these talented students!

 

“Advanced Placement Art” exhibition is sponsored by the Hayward Arts Council which stimulates interest in visual and performing arts, promotes opportunities for artists to exhibit, and encourages public participation in free art demonstrations and events. Visit www.haywardartscouncil.org for more gallery exhibits and events.

 

Advanced Placement Art

Saturday, Mar 14 – Thursday, Apr 30

During library hours

 

Opening Reception

Saturday, Mar 28

2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

 

Hayward Public Library, 2nd floor

888 C St. & Mission, Hayward

(510) 538-2787

www.haywardartscouncil.org

 

 

Initiatives help build community through education and arts

Submitted by Alameda County

 

Alameda County Board of Supervisors are recognizing March as “Art IS Education Month” and April as “Arts, Culture and Creativity Month,” according to a presentation from Board President Richard Valle during the board’s February 25 meeting. In 2020, Alameda County’s Art IS Education Month marks its 20th anniversary of advancing all art forms as an essential part of a high quality and equitable education that ensures every student reaches their full potential.

 

This is also the 10th year that the Alameda County Library has joined the partnership to present more than 200 free arts events at 11 library locations across the county each year. These events include a wide range of workshops, performances, concerts, movies, art contests, exhibitions, and story time activities for all ages. All library events are listed at www.aclibrary.org.

 

At the Oakland meeting, Supervisor Valle, who represents Hayward, Union City, Newark and portions of Fremont and Sunol, was joined by the other four members of the Alameda County Board of Supervisors; Susan S. Muranishi, Melissa Wilk, Deb Sica, Rachel Osajima (Alameda County Arts Commission Director), County staff, and appointed members of the Alameda County Arts Commission.

 

“I am pleased to recognize Art IS Education Month of March and Arts, Culture and Creativity Month of April,” Valle said. “These initiatives encourage Alameda County community members of all ages to connect with each other, create solutions, and build community through the arts.”

 

The Alameda County Arts Commission’s Create Alameda County is working in partnership with Create California on a statewide initiative. During the month of March, Create California encourages community members across the state to sign a pledge in support of arts education at www.createca.net.

 

Arts, Culture and Creativity Month is the second annual statewide advocacy event that recognizes the crucial role of arts, culture and creativity in the lives of everyone in California. This month-long event is being organized by Californians for the Arts (CFTA). CFTA encourages community members and arts organizations throughout the State to participate. CFTA will present a convening in Sacramento on Tuesday, April 14.

 

 

Social Security Matters

Ask Rusty – Does Social Security Ever Make Mistakes on Benefits?

By AMAC Certified Social Security Advisor Russell Gloor

Association of Mature American Citizens

 

Dear Rusty: Can or does the Social Security Administration occasionally make mistakes in determining the benefits due? I’m now 72, but I retired early at age 61 and knew my benefits would be reduced. I’ve always wondered if my monthly benefit calculation was incorrect but did not know how to address my concerns. If it is possible, could you direct me in how to handle this with the SS Administration? Signed: Skeptical of My Benefit

 

Dear Skeptical: Can the Social Security Administration ever make mistakes? Of course, they can, and they do, but not very often considering that they are dealing with tens of millions of beneficiaries, and especially when it comes to computing benefit amounts. Since nearly all benefit computations are done by computer, the usual source of any error is almost always from using incorrect input data. The actual benefit computation formula, while complex, is very standard and well proven; if an error occurs in a basic benefit computation, it is usually because a person’s lifetime earnings record contains an error. Having said that, let’s explore why you feel your benefit may not be correct.

 

When you say you “retired early at age 61,” I assume that means you claimed your Social Security early at age 62 (the minimum age). Since your full retirement age is age 66, that means that by claiming at age 62 your benefit was cut by 25 percent from what it would have been at age 66. Also, any benefit estimate you had from Social Security before claiming assumed that you would continue to earn at your current level until you reached your full retirement age. If you “retired” and stopped working and earning at age 61, the benefit you are entitled to is less than that estimate you had from Social Security at age 61.

 

So, how can you address your concerns? I suggest the first thing you do is get a copy of your lifetime earnings record from Social Security. You can do this by calling them and requesting it or, if you have a “My Social Security” personal account, you can obtain it online. You should verify that all your lifetime earnings are properly reflected in Social Security’s records (SS gets your earnings data from the IRS). Note that only your earnings up to the maximum payroll tax for each year count because that’s all you paid SS FICA tax on; if your actual earnings in any year were more than the annual payroll tax cap, only the amount up to that year’s tax cap is used. Be aware that if you find an error, you will need to prove it to Social Security by showing them a copy of your W-2 or your Federal Income tax return for the year(s) in question. If your lifetime earnings record is in order, then you are almost certainly getting the correct benefit. When computing your benefit, Social Security adjusts each year of your lifetime earnings to today’s dollar value, so inflation shouldn’t be a factor either. The highest earning 35 years over your lifetime (adjusted for inflation) are used to determine your benefit amount.

 

If you’re still uncomfortable that you may not be getting the correct benefit, you should call Social Security directly and ask them to review your benefits to make sure you are receiving the correct amount. Social Security has all your lifetime earnings data immediately available and can quickly determine if your benefit amount is correct based upon the earnings history shown in your record.

 

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.

 

 

Lexus ES 300h Hybrid: stylish gas sipping

By Steve Schaefer

 

Lexus is Toyota’s luxury brand, so you expect extra style, comfort, and maybe even performance when you opt for the “L” instead of the “T” logo on nose and tail. The ES 300, now in its seventh generation, remains a pleasant midsize sedan. After a major styling upgrade last year, it’s carryover for ‘20, but continues to offer a hybrid version for people who are not enraptured by SUVs. It’s one of six Lexus hybrids.

 

The look is hardly placid, as were earlier models, although there is a new shade of beige available this year. Toyota, and Lexus in particular, are going all-out for in-your-face styling, so the front of this car takes the giant spindle grille in an even more evocative direction. With carefully crafted pieces, it sprawls over the face of the car and positively radiates with energy to the eye. It must take some sophisticated CAD CAM to draw and build that. Sharply drawn headlamp pods and jaunty corner air vents all contribute to the intense, sharp-edged design.

 

Inside, a large center screen makes it easy to use Apple CarPlay and deal with other necessities. Comfort is naturally expected and enjoyed within, while not mimicking German or American styling. You know it’s a Lexus by the touch pad on the center console where you just slip your finger up and down or side to side and press to select items on the eye-level screen. It works well most of the time.

 

I wasn’t enamored with the textured faux-looking wood trim ($540) but there were no other complaints about riding in this cushy car.

 

The major difference between the ES 300h and its sibling, the gas-powered ES 350, is what’s under the hood. To generate much higher EPA miles-per-gallon numbers, Lexus puts a 2.5-liter four-cylinder in with a high-density motor and nickel-metal-hydride battery (now moved from the trunk to under the rear seat), which together put out 215 horsepower. This will launch the 300h from 0-60 in a respectable 8.1 seconds. But the V6 in the ES 350 offers 302 horsepower and will do 0-60 in 6.6 seconds.

 

But—when you look at the EPA fuel economy numbers, it reverses, and the 300h earns 44 mpg combined versus just 26 mpg for the 350. It’s up to you what’s more important, but of course I’m hoping it’s the hybrid. The hybrid’s EPA green scores are a tidy 7 for Smog and 9 for greenhouse gas. It’ll save you $3,000 in fuel costs over five years versus the average car.

 

It always amazes me that you can get a luxury car but then add so much to it. In this case, my Atomic Silver test car carried $10,945 worth of options, driving the base price of $41,760 to $52,505 (plus $1,025 delivery). Some is safety related, like the blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and parking assist ($1,065). Some is flash, like upgrading to 18-inch split-spoke alloys ($770). Handy is the head-up display ($500). The Mark Levinson audio and navigation sounds wonderful, and it had better be for a $2,900 premium.

 

However, do you really need to pay $550 for a hands-free power trunk lid or $400 for illuminated door sills? It must have something to do with the kind of buyer who wants to customize their car that so many choices exist. The list does make me wonder if anyone ever orders the car without all these items. Perhaps it’s just broken out this way, and all ES 300h’s are shipped to the dealers loaded.

 

It says something that I didn’t make any notes about the ES 300h driving experience. It was nice, but I don’t remember a thing. There is a whole lot more insulation in the floor, so you know it was a quiet week. The new model (starting with the ’19) comes on a robust new chassis, allowing the engineers to better control noise and harshness as well as finely tune the ride. Suspension changes have led to a higher quality feel, as well—or so they tell me.

 

The hybrid control system delivers more linear acceleration, reducing the tendency of hybrid vehicles to have a “rubber band” feel. And, auto glide control improves efficiency by adding a “coast” mode, so the car slows more predictably, reducing the switch from accelerator to brake pedal while braking.

 

Lexus’ midsize luxury sedan is forced to compete with German, Swedish, American, Korean, and other Japanese products. Lexus has carved out an enviable reputation now, so this better, more attractive, and more feature-filled new ES 300h should do well in the market segment. With its higher fuel economy, it is a more responsible citizen as well. I’m still waiting for the fully electric one, though (ES 300e?).

 

 

BART new email and text message platform

Submitted by BART Updates

 

On Monday, March 9, BART launched a new platform for subscription-based email and text alerts. The new platform will send email messages from the “@info.bart.gov” domain, and text messages from SFBART (732278). You might need to update any contacts or inbox rules you’ve previously created for BART messages.

 

In some cases, last-minute subscription changes might not make it to the new platform. After March 9, look for the “Update Subscription” link at the bottom of BART emails to update your profile to make sure you are getting the information you want from us. Over the coming weeks, you may also receive follow-up texts / emails asking you to confirm your profile information to make sure we’re up to date.

 

BART is moving to a more modern messaging platform with new, more readable email templates, a brand new, easy-to-use profile center to manage your subscriptions, a custom short code (SFBART / 732278) so you can recognize official messages from BART, clearer text messages with fewer abbreviations and much more.

 

 

BART Police Log

Submitted by Les Mensinger and BART PD

 

Thursday, February 27

• At 8:09 a.m. a man identified by police as Daryl Pendleton, 37, of Oakland was arrested at Hayward station on suspicion of assault and failure to register as a sex offender. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

Friday, February 28

• At 7:41 a.m. a suspect identified by police as Krystle Smith, 35, of San Francisco was arrested at Union City station on suspicion of possessing a controlled substance along with an outstanding misdemeanor warrant. Smith was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

Sunday, March 1

• At 8:57 a.m. a man identified by police as Michael Holland, 37, of Oakland was arrested at Fremont station on an outstanding $25,000 warrant and booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

• At 6:48 p.m. a man identified by police as Cedric Duvall, 41, of Oakland was arrested at Hayward station on suspicion of possessing drug paraphernalia, carrying a concealed dirk or dagger, and a parole violation. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

Tuesday, March 3

• At 4:17 a.m. a man identified by police as Grant Labrie, 32, of Hayward was arrested at Bay Fair station in San Leandro on suspicion of violating a restraining order. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

Thursday, March 5

• At 3:04 p.m. a man identified by police as Antonio Hayes, 55, of San Francisco was arrested at South Hayward station on suspicion of violating a court order. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

 

Cameras ID Auto Burglary Suspect Vehicle

Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont P.D.

 

On February 5, 2020, an auto burglary occurred in the Mowry/Farwell corridor. The City’s Community Cameras identified the suspect vehicle and license plate as a dark colored Honda Accord. Detectives conducted follow up on the case and issued an alert to all Bay Area law enforcement agencies.

 

On February 27, 2020, California Highway Patrol Officers with the Sacramento office, located the suspect vehicle and initiated a stop based on our alert. CHP contacted the driver (Diontay Espinoza, 22 years old of Sacramento) and arrested him on an unrelated burglary warrant. Espinoza was found to be on probation out of Sacramento County for burglary. He is also on probation in Alameda County for possession of burglary tools.

 

Espinoza’s vehicle was towed by FPD Detectives for further follow up. Espinoza has recent burglary arrests from Northern California to Southern California.

 

 

Cal State East Bay, U.S. Coast Guard announce new partnership

Submitted by Kimberly Hawkins

 

Cal State East Bay and the U.S. Coast Guard announced a new program on February 28 called the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative, which will provide students with scholarship and research opportunities, while also increasing the diversity of the agency’s military officers. During a ceremony at the university’s Hayward campus, President Leroy M. Morishita signed a memorandum of agreement with Vice Admiral Linda L. Fagan, Coast Guard Pacific Area commander.

 

Cal State East Bay is now the third school in California to partner with the Coast Guard for the initiative. Students accepted into the program will receive up to two years of tuition, living expenses and a salary while attending school and are guaranteed commission with the U.S. Coast Guard following graduation. As part of the agreement, Cal State East Bay faculty will also have increased opportunities to work with the Coast Guard on projects of shared interest and wider scope such as marine biology and environmental science.

 

“Cal State East Bay is proud to join the U.S. Coast Guard’s College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative,” Morishita said. “Our students will receive significant resources and real-world training, and our faculty can expand their research as a result of this agreement. We look forward to a collaboration that will have [a] lasting impact for the university.”

 

The initiative began as an effort to increase the participation of historically black colleges and universities in federally sponsored programs and has expanded to all designated minority-serving institutions. “To meet the future needs of the nation, our Coast Guard workforce must be representative of the American public we serve,” Fagan said. “Diversity is a top priority for the service, and we are excited about our partnership with Cal State East Bay and the shared opportunities the CSPI program will create.”

 

 

Experts say California bald eagle eggs may never hatch

AP Wire Service

 

MONROVIA, Calif. (AP), Feb 24 – Two California bald eagle eggs have passed their normal incubation time and may never hatch, experts said.

 

The eggs in a nest at Big Bear Lake have been seen daily on streaming video from a camera positioned at the nest, The San Gabriel Valley Tribune reported Friday.

 

The eggs most likely contain dead offspring, although they are still being attended by their parents, Jackie and Shadow, the U.S. Forest Service said.

 

“It's hard to say this, but the odds of our Big Bear bald eagle nest's eggs will hatch this year are diminishing each day,” Zach Behrens, public affairs officer for the San Bernardino National Forest, wrote in a social media post.

 

“At this point, we'll be very (pleasantly) surprised if either egg hatches,” Behrens wrote.

 

Bald eagle eggs hatch in about 35 to 38 days. But the Big Bear eggs were laid more than 40 days ago, Behrens said.

 

Even giving an extra day or two for slow development from cold temperatures, “the window of successful hatching is closing,” he wrote.

 

Forest Service biologists expected to see a pip, or a crack, in at least one of the eggs by now indicating an eaglet is alive and emerging, Behrens said.

 

 

Census questionnaires are on the way

Submitted by Alameda County

 

The 2020 Census is coming soon and Alameda County officials are reminding people to be on the lookout for census questionnaires arriving in mailboxes in mid-March. The census process will continue into July. Based on information in the questionnaire, recipients will be able to decide how they want to respond: online, by telephone or by mail.

 

The census is an extremely important aspect of American society. It provides governments, from the city to the federal level, with the demographics of the people in the United States. The census impacts the way this next decade’s Congressional Districts will be drawn and the amount of federal funding each state receives, which has an effect on state, county, and municipal funding.

 

An accurate count is vital because it will impact all communities. In Alameda County, officials will analyze data from the census for resources like school lunches, access to health care services, and improvements to transportation infrastructure. To learn more about the Census 2020 and Alameda County’s effort in the process visit https://www.acgov.org/census2020.

 

 

Lady Gladiators rout Lady Rams

Submitted by Chabot athletics

 

The Chabot women’s basketball team routed Fresno City 81-54 in Round 2 of the California Community College Athletic Association (CCCAA) Northern California Regionals on Saturday, February 29 to move one win away from the State Finals. The No. 4 seeded Gladiators (23-6), who have won nine in a row, will host No. 5 Merced (24-5) in Round 3. Merced is coming off an 82-50 win over Folsom Lake in Round 2.

 

Chabot sophomore Zakiya Mahoney, an All-State First-Team pick, paced the Gladiators with 33 points against Fresno, making three 3-pointers. Mahoney, who was offered a basketball scholarship by Texas Tech after her freshman season, has scored 1,002 points in her Chabot career, second only to De Zire Hall (1,052) on the college all-time list. Nyah Willis added 17 points in the blowout of Fresno with three 3-pointers. Kayla Tahaafe (12 points) and Adorah Buggs (10 points) also reached double digits.

 

The Gladiators beat Merced 74-60 on Jan. 28 in the San Jose City tournament, when Mahoney led the way with 21 points and 12 rebounds. Tahaafe and Buggs both had 14 points and Willis added 14 points.

Chabot was ranked No. 5 in the state North Region Final Poll, two spots behind Merced.

 

During a season of impressive accomplishments, the Gladiators finished Coast-North play in a three-way tie for first place with City College of San Francisco and Skyline.

 

Editor’s Note:

The Lady Gladiators moved on in tournament play, beating Fresno City 81-54 in Round 2 of the CCCAA Regionals on February 29. In a semifinal matchup with the Lady Blue Devils of Merced, the Gladiators won a close 66-63 contest with a third period 22-11 sprint and advance to “Final 8” state championship play against the Lady Mounties of Mt. San Antonio (23-7) from Walnut on Thursday, March 12 at West Hills College Lemoore. Semifinal play is set for Saturday, March 14 and the championship game is scheduled for Sunday, March 15.

 

 

Mission San Jose Chamber Mixer

Submitted by Mission San Jose Chamber of Commerce

 

Network with MSJ Chamber of Commerce members and community leaders on Wednesday, March 18 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m. at Little Steamers (Preschool and Makerspace). Located at 43531 Mission Boulevard, they are just North of Subway Sandwiches with easy parking both on Mission Boulevard and in their parking lot.

 

As one of our newer MSJ Chamber members, Cherryl Figone, Director at Little Steamers, is eager to meet her colleagues in the MSJ Chamber. Let’s welcome her and her staff to our neighborhood. Sip a glass of wine, enjoy appetizers, renew friendships, and make new ones.

 

Not a member? Come anyway, and take this opportunity to join…Membership is $50 for businesses and $25 for residents.

 

MSJ Chamber Mixer

Wednesday, Mar 18

6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Little Steamers

43531 Mission Blvd., Fremont

https://www.msjchamber.org/

 

 

California Highway Patrol Log

Submitted by CHP

 

Friday, February 21

• Starting at 8:00 p.m. Hayward CHP conducted a six-hour sobriety checkpoint at Mission Boulevard and Medford Street in Hayward. About 312 cars passed through the checkpoint with 132 of them being screened. There were multiple DUI arrests and several citations issued for unlicensed and suspended drivers.

 

Saturday, February 29

• Contra Costa CHP reported that a 44-year-old Fremont man was involved in a solo vehicle collision on the eastbound I-80 to Highway 4 split in Hercules. Arriving emergency personnel and CHP officers found the man unconscious; he was taken to John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek where he died. On Monday, March 2, the Contra Costa County Coroner’s Office identified the man as Daniel Coco. The incident is still under investigation. Anyone who witnessed this collision or the events leading up to it is asked to call Contra Costa CHP in Martinez at (925) 646-4980.

 

Friday, March 6

• At about 1:20 a.m. a suspect assaulted an officer with a vehicle in Dublin and fled on I-580 with officers from CHP Castro Valley and Alameda County Sheriff’s Office in pursuit. The pursuit ended on Center Street near James Avenue in Castro Valley when the suspect’s vehicle struck several parked cars and overturned. The driver, who sustained major injuries in the crash, was taken into custody and was to be booked into Santa Rita Jail after being medically cleared.

 

 

Artists’ Coalition acts to preserve nonprofit theaters

By Stephanie Gertsch

 

For California workers 2020 is the year of AB5. Based on a 2018 court case, the Assembly Bill was signed into law in September of 2019 and went into effect on January 1, 2020. Reclassifying many independent contractors as employees, the bill targets companies that over-rely on contractors, with the goal of securing employee benefits (sick leave, health insurance) for more workers. However, some industries are caught in the crossfire, on shaky legal ground when it comes to retaining their contractors, but lacking the funds to hire employees.

 

Nonprofit theaters are among these. Becky Davis, elected Board President at the Altarena Playhouse in Alameda in December of 2019, saw that AB5 might spell financial ruin for smaller theaters. After meeting with representatives in the capitol, she formed the Coalition of Community Artists to push back on the bill’s requirements, and so far over 40 groups have joined to lend their voices from San Francisco, Berkeley, Alameda, Palo Alto, Santa Cruz, and other Bay Area Cities. Davis took up theater while a cadet in the U.S. Coast Guard, and later met her husband at the Altarena Playhouse. With 20 years of theater experience, she staunchly defends its role in the community: “We’re small budget organizations that exist for the purpose of making art and culture accessible to people of all demographics in all the various areas at free or low cost.”

 

Small nonprofit theaters (with yearly budgets under $500,000) are hit hardest. Behind-the-scenes workers make up most of the independent contractors, says Davis. “This is everyone from directors to scenic designers to costume designers, choreographers, spotlight operators, wig and hair, prop designers…Literally everything you see on the stage has to be designed or created by somebody.” Designers are usually hired for a single production, and either do theater as a hobby, or work for multiple companies throughout the year – neither of which fits the employee profile.

 

AB5’s “fine artist” classification could allow people to keep working as independent contractors. However, this is not a simple solution. First, starting June 1, 2020, contractors would have to apply for a business license, incurring the accompanying trouble and expense. Moreover, says Davis, “There’s little things about the way the language is written where you could kind of argue both ways, and the fact that it’s ambiguous is a concern.”

 

According to AB5, independent contractors must:

• Set and negotiate their own rates
• Regularly use discretion and independent judgment
• Set their own hours (working around completion dates and business hours)

 

All three can be sticking points for smaller nonprofit theaters. Many theaters have an upper limit to what they can pay, meaning an artist may not have the freedom to set their own rates. In addition, if the stage space is being used for rehearsal or other activities, that limits a set designer’s ability to set their own schedule. Finally, all designers need to adhere to the director’s vision. Davis describes the process: “The director and the designers get together and the director says, ‘This is my vision, this is what I want to see. When I’m doing the blocking, this is where I want to see a door so that people can exit for these particular parts of the show.’” In short, the collaborative nature of theater means no part of the show can really be “independent.” “You want all of the elements to work together,” Davis explains. “If you’ve got a scenic designer that’s going with a very different aesthetic than the lighting designer it’s going to clash.”

 

So even if you legally can hire on an artist as an independent contractor, if you’re a small theater that can’t withstand a lawsuit—should you? According to cautious lawyers, the answer is often no: Don’t take the risk. “If they were to get sued under this law, most of these companies would just fold because they don’t have the resources to go to bat for themselves,” Davis says. “Even when theaters have a clear-cut exemption in front of them a lot of them are still too afraid.”

 

Safety comes with a price. Theaters have seen production costs go up anywhere from 15 to 40 percent due to reclassification—and this is after they’ve already done months of fundraising and securing rights to shows. For theaters that start their schedule of shows in August, the bill was signed and made law during their season. In short, companies are scrambling to come up with additional funds for projects they’re already committed to. Davis mentions one theater where “They’d been working on [a piece] for over a year and had to go back to the playwright and say ‘You need to change the script – you need to remove characters – because we can no longer afford to do this as a full scale production.’” She expands, “It’s not just a matter of affecting our business model; for some groups it’s actually affecting the arts that they are performing.”

 

In late February, 2020, the Coalition of Community Artists drafted a letter to be sent to State representatives, and 32 member groups signed on. The goal is not to try to take down AB5, but bring artists’ concerns to light, especially in context of AB 1850, which revises the independent contractor requirements and is still being amended. AB 1850 was introduced in January by District 80 assemblymember Lorena Gonzalez, who has also advocated for a $20 million grant for affected theaters.

 

Davis says, “Nobody in the coalition is taking the mindset of ‘AB 5 is terrible and it should just go away.’ We fully understand and support what the message is and what they’re trying to do. Our concern is that the execution of it was done so fast.”

 

“A lot of people don’t know much about community theater unless they’re already involved. They aren’t aware of how this impacts groups like ours,” notes Davis. Hopefully the Coalition will help more become aware of the plight of smaller theaters, and create a legal system where this vital part of the community can keep operating.

 

You can read more about the history of AB5 here: https://www.investopedia.com/california-assembly-bill-5-ab5-4773201.

 

 

Coffee with cops

Submitted by Hayward PD

 

Police in Hayward are hosting a Coffee With a Cop gathering to chat with citizens and business owners over coffee and doughnuts on Tuesday, March 17 at the Dunkin’ Doughnut shop on Jackson Street.

 

While there is no formal presentation planned, several representatives from the Hayward Police Department will be there to talk with members of the public about neighborhood concerns and answer general questions about the police department. Admission is free and open to the public.

 

Coffee with a Cop

Tuesday, Mar 17

10 a.m. – 12 noon

Dunkin’ doughnut shop,

268 Jackson St., Hayward

(510) 293-7000

 

 

Meet the captain!

Submitted by Monica Leon

 

Patrol Commander Captain Fred Bobbitt from the Fremont Police Department (FPD) will be the featured guest at a Conversations With the Captain event on Wednesday, March 18 at Boba Queen restaurant and tea shop in Fremont.

 

The 90-minute event starts at 3:30 p.m. and is sponsored by the FPD Patrol Division. Fremont residents and business owners are encouraged to stop by and chat with Bobbitt, who will answer questions about patrol activity in Fremont, crime trends and crime prevention. No specific agenda is planned, so people can also share neighborhood concerns or feedback for FPD. Upcoming Conversations With the Captain events will rotate monthly throughout the Fremont’s six districts. Admission is free.

 

Conversations with the Captain

Wednesday, Mar 18

3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Boba Queen

34420 Fremont Blvd., Fremont

(510) 790-6800

 

 

Staying ahead of coronavirus takes preparation

Submitted by Newark Police Department

 

Alameda County has declared a public health emergency for COVID-19, otherwise known as coronavirus. The potential spread of the virus is of great concern with many taking aggressive measures to address the potential spread of the virus.

 

Although the risk to the general public is low at this time, public health officials are taking action. The county has been working with the California Department of Public Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and implementing public health interventions per emerging guidance from State and Federal agencies to safeguard the health of communities.

 

People should take the following precautions to prevent the spread of germs and respiratory illnesses:

 

• Wash hands with liquid soap and water and rub for at least 20 seconds
• Cover your mouth and nose with tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing
• Refrain from touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Stay home when you are sick
• Get a flu shot to protect yourself and others from the flu, which has similar symptoms to COVID-19
• Flu and other respiratory viruses are very common right now and large group gatherings are places where viruses can spread. If you are not feeling well or are experiencing cold, flu or other symptoms, stay home to avoid spreading germs
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces; and consult with your healthcare provider if you or your household members are at high risk for COVID-19 complications

 

People who are healthy do not need to use a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory illnesses. A facemask can be worn by those who are coughing or sneezing to protect others from getting sick. The use of facemasks is crucial, however, for health workers and other people who are taking care of someone infected with COVID-19 in close settings.

 

Healthy people should not be excluded from any activities based on their race or country of origin. There is no racial, ethnic, or cultural basis for the disease and we absolutely do not tolerate discrimination of individuals based on their background.

 

For more information about the COVID-19 virus, visit www.newark.org/residents/covid-19-coronavirus.

 

 

Coronavirus COVID-19 Updates

Submitted by Matt Conens

 

On March 6, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced the most recent statistics on COVID-19. California now has 69 confirmed cases. For more information on COVID-19 and California’s response visit www.cdph.ca.gov.

 

COVID-19 in California by the Numbers (as of March 6):

69– Positive cases

1 – Death

24 – Cases of positive tests related to federal repatriation flights

45 – Cases not related to repatriation flights

 

• 22 – Travel-related
• 12 – Person to person
• 9 – Community transmission
• 2 – Currently under investigation

 

9,900+ – number of people self-monitoring who returned to the U.S. through SFO or LAX

49 – Number of local health jurisdictions involved in self-monitoring

15 – Labs with test kits

 

How Can People Protect Themselves?

Every person has a role to play. So much of protecting yourself and your family comes down to common sense:

• Washing hands with soap and water
• Avoiding touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
• Staying away from work, school or other people if you become sick with respiratory symptoms like fever and cough
• Following guidance from public health officials

 

What to Do if You Think You’re Sick?

Call ahead: If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and may have had contact with a person with COVID-19 or recently traveled to countries with apparent community spread, call your health care provider or local public health department first before seeking medical care so that appropriate precautions can be taken.

 

California’s Response to COVID-19:

We have been actively and extensively planning with our local public health and health care delivery systems. Here are some of the things we are already doing:

• As in any public health event, CDPH’s medical and health coordination center has been activated and is coordinating public health response efforts across the state.
• California continues to prepare and respond in coordination with federal and local partners, hospitals, and physicians.
• Governor Newsom declared a State of Emergency to make additional resources available, formalize emergency actions already underway across multiple state agencies and departments, and help the state prepare for broader spread of COVID-19.
• California activated the State Operations Center to its highest level to coordinate response efforts across the state.
• Twenty-four million more Californians are now eligible for free medically necessary COVID-19 testing.
• California made available some of its emergency planning reserves of 21 million N95 filtering facepiece masks for use in health care settings to ease shortages of personal protective equipment.
• The Public Health Department is providing information, guidance documents, and technical support to local health departments, health care facilities, providers, schools, universities, colleges, and childcare facilities across California.
• The Public Health Department is coordinating with federal authorities and local health departments that have implemented screening, monitoring and, in some cases quarantine of returning travelers.
• In coordination with the CDC, state and local health departments, we are actively responding to cases of COVID-19.
• The Public Health Department is supporting hospitals and local public health laboratories in the collection of specimens and testing for COVID-19.
• The CDPH’s state laboratory in Richmond and 14 other public health department laboratories now have tests for the virus that causes COVID-19.

 

 

Coronavirus Disease Testing Kits Available

Submitted by California Department of Public Health

 

The California Department of Public Health announced on February 28 that new CDC test kits used to detect Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) now available in California can be used to do diagnostic testing in the community. California will immediately receive an additional shipment of kits to test up to 1,200 people.

 

“These new testing protocols and resources will help California medical experts identify and treat COVID-19 cases, trace potential exposures, and better protect public health,” said Governor Newsom. “I am grateful to the CDC and federal government for quickly heeding our state’s requests and assisting California’s response to this evolving situation.”

 

“The availability to test at California’s public health laboratories is a significant step forward in our ability to respond rapidly to this evolving situation,” said Dr. Sonia Angell, director of the California Department of Public Health and State Health Officer. “As we face the likelihood of community transmission here in California, having this resource where we need it, is essential to better inform public health response and protect our communities.”

 

The California Department of Public Health has been prepared and is continuing with the following actions as the situation surrounding COVID-19 evolves:

• Activating the Emergency Operations Center to coordinate response efforts across the state.
• Continuing to prepare and respond in coordination with federal and local partners, hospitals and physicians.
• Deploying staff to assist with contact tracing in Solano and Sacramento counties for a patient whose source of infection is unknown.
• Providing information, guidance documents, and technical support to local health departments, health care facilities, providers, schools, universities, colleges, and childcare facilities across California.
• Coordinating with federal authorities and local health departments that have implemented screening, monitoring and, in some cases quarantine.
• Engaging with local health departments in managing suspect and confirmed cases of COVID-19 patients over the past several weeks.

 

 

Homeless Task Force to Focus on Temporary Housing and Shelter

By Supervisor Dave Cortese

 

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

 

I couldn’t agree more with this famous quote by anthropologist Margaret Mead. That’s why I continually go to you–residents of Santa Clara County–to help me and my colleagues on the board tackle our greatest challenges.

 

In order to tap into the great knowledge and experience that is always present in our communities, the board approved my proposal to create a new Homeless Task Force to focus on the immediate needs of the 8,000 of our neighbors who are struggling through the winter with no housing or shelter. For six months, this group will meet to develop strategies for increasing emergency shelter and transitional housing while permanent supportive housing is being built through Measure A funding.

 

Not surprisingly, the idea for a Task Force came from a group of people gathered at the Community Summit on Homelessness last September. The 250 participants, including 60 who were unhoused, gave up a Saturday to explore solutions to homelessness through table-top conversations led by trained facilitators. They based this on the success of the 2015 Housing Task Force, which led to the Measure A $950 million housing bond for permanent supportive housing.

 

Measure A is scheduled to provide 4,800 affordable housing units over 10 years, with 75% of them targeted for those who are extremely low income and very low income as identified by federal guidelines. At this time, 18 housing projects are in the works, and three have opened, which will provide about 2,000 units. Some of the units are called permanent supportive housing. This means that the tenants will also receive services, including treatment for addiction, mental and physical healthcare and job training. The idea is that people who have been homeless for a long time not only need roofs over their heads but help to stabilize their lives and put them on a path to success.

 

But Measure A funds cannot be used for temporary shelter or transitional housing, which is why you continue to see homeless on the streets. The funding is restricted to building new housing and to renovating existing housing for use as permanent supportive housing. That’s the deal we made with voters who approved the Measure A – Affordable Housing Bond in 2016. So, while we’re making progress toward the medium- and long-term solutions to respond to our housing crisis, we are long overdue in addressing are desperate need to provide temporary shelter and housing while the permanent housing is being built. That’s what the Homeless Task Force will be charged to do.

 

The summit participants also came up with an impressive list of other recommendations that the Task Force can look into, including expanding mental health teams, providing lockers for unhoused residents to safely store their belongings in, funding more portable showers, providing cell phones and chargers and educating the public about the diverse experiences of homelessness, including positive stories.

 

To read the report and the list of recommendations, visit my website at www.supervisorcortese.org and click on the item about the Task Force. You can also call my office at (408) 299-5030 or email me at dave.cortese@bos.sccgov.org.

 

 

Cougars Report

Submitted by Timothy Hess

 

Girls Basketball:

Congratulations to Newark Memorial senior guard Rylee Sarasua and freshman guard Tali Fa’i for recognition by the Mission Valley Athletic League girls basketball coaches and named to the 2020 All-League First Team for their outstanding performance this season. Junior guard Samantha Armas received “Honorable Mention” honors.

 

Champions of Character:

The following Newark Memorial High School athletes were recognized as Champions of Character by their teammates this week:

 

 

Baseball: Bobby Toomey

Boys Soccer:

Congratulations to the following varsity soccer player selected to the 2019-2020 Mission Valley Athletic League All-League teams for their outstanding performance on the field this season.

1st Team:

Alfonso Sandoval- Midfielder

Goncalo Espinola-Defender

Danny Trabanino-Defender

Jacob Berry-Goalkeeper

Robert Sanchez-Forward

Jose Luna-Midfielder

2nd Team:

Nick Medrano

 

Girls Wrestling:

The Lady Cougars placed fifth at the north coast section wrestling championships held at Albany high school. Three Cougars qualified for the CIF California state girls wrestling championships in Bakersfield, two as individual champions: Ariana Pereira and Mikaela Troche. At 121 pounds, junior Mikaela Troche went 4-0 with 4 falls. #2 seed Ariana Pereira (160) won by fall leading up the finals where she won by major decision against #1 seeded Francesca Lopresti of Albany. Sophomore Miku Barberi (150) placed 2nd. She had 3 falls before losing to #1 seed Hannah Ricioli of El Molina.

 

At the state championship, Ariana Pereira completed a sweep of opponents with a 2-1 victory in a repeat match with Francesca LoPresti of Albany.

 

Also, congratulations to state team champion James Logan Lady Colts of Union City.

 

 

Join police for custard and conversation

Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont PD

 

Community members, students and local business owners are invited to attend a Custard with the Cops meet-and-greet with members of the Fremont Police Department (FPD).

 

The 90-minute event is set for Thursday, March 19, at Rita’s Italian Ice and Frozen Custard shop on Paseo Padre Parkway in Fremont. The focus of the informal gathering, which starts at 6:00 p.m., is to let people ask questions, voice neighborhood concerns or even share feedback with local police officers in a relaxed setting.

 

Attending the event will be FPD Chief Kimberley Petersen along with police commander personnel, staff from the Community Engagement Unit and Patrol and Investigations. No formal presentation is planned, so people are free to stop by anytime during the event. A free small Italian ice will be given to the first 100 visitors during the event while supplies last. Admission is free.

 

Custard with the Cops

Thursday, Mar 19

6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Rita’s Italian Ice and Frozen Custard

3006 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont

(510) 790-6689

 

 

Park It

By Ned MacKay

 

In my last column I urged park visitors to carry out and recycle plastic water bottles that they bring into East Bay Regional Parks and other open spaces, instead of just discarding them. The park district is going a step further, encouraging people to reduce plastic use by bringing along non-disposable water bottles when they visit parklands. To help with this, the district is in the process of installing water bottle refilling stations at several regional parks.

 

There’s more: the district is starting a pilot program to expand recycling and enable food scrap composting. This consists of placing three-stream compost/recycle/landfill containers at various parks. Compost includes food scraps and food-soiled paper/cardboard. Recycling includes clean paper and cardboard in addition to bottles and cans. Look for the new containers at Anthony Chabot, Briones, Robert Crown, Diablo Foothills, Garin, Lake Chabot, Sibley and Tilden Nature Area.

 

Mathematicians among us recognize March 14 (3.14) as Pi Day, an occasion to celebrate a mathematical constant: the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter.

 

At Sunol Regional Wilderness, naturalist Erica Stephens will observe the day by leading a hike from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. to the high valley barn, where a pie treat awaits.

The hike is for ages seven and older and there’s a fee of — what else — $3.14. Registration is required. Call (888) 327-2757 and select option 2.

 

All ages will enjoy a Froggy Friends hike from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 15, at Sunol with naturalist Alex Collins. The program will include family friendly frog activities.

 

The park also has three recurring programs each weekend. Animal feeding time is from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. every Sunday through April 26 inside the visitor center. Nature crafts are from 10 a.m. to 12 noon every Saturday and Sunday through March 22.

 

Wild Wonders, a program of games, activities and explorations, is from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday through March 22.

 

Sunol Wilderness is at the end of Geary Road off Calaveras Road about 5 miles south of I-680 and the town of Sunol. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. For information, call (510) 544-3249.

 

Photographers will enjoy a flower photography program from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 14, at Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont, led by photographer Don Jedlovec and naturalist Kristina Parkison. It’s twofold: get tips on getting professional-grade images of flowers in the park’s butterfly garden and learn how to attract bird and insect pollinators to your own garden. The program is for ages 12 and up. It’s free, but registration is required. Call (888) 327-2757, select option 2, and refer to program number 28116.

 

Frogs and other amphibians are the focus of a program at Coyote Hills from 10 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 15, with naturalist Dino Labiste. It’s a walk from the visitor center to the marsh and a chance to make a frog craft to take home.

 

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

 

 

Frogs and photography are also on the agenda at Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley. Naturalist “Trail Gail” Broesder will lead a search of the nature area ponds for wet wildlife from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 14.

 

Naturalist Anthony Fisher plans a nature photography clinic with your camera or mobile phone from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, March 15.

 

Both programs meet at Tilden’s Environmental Education Center, which is at the north end of Central Park Drive. For information, call (510) 544-2233.

 

Spiders are the subject of a program from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 15, at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley. You can learn about the eight-leggers and join in some arachnid-themed activities. Big Break is at 69 Big Break Road off Oakley’s Main Street. Call (888) 327-2757, ext. 3050.

 

This is just a sample. It’s springtime, and there are lots of programs on the calendar in the regional parks. For information, visit www.ebparks.org.

 

 

Eden Eats 2020

By David R. Newman

Photos courtesy of Breslow Imaging

 

When looking for a new restaurant to try on date night, most people immediately think of San Francisco or Oakland. But there are plenty of wonderful eateries in your own backyard. To help promote these local businesses and raise awareness of our hidden culinary culture, the Castro Valley/Eden Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its annual business expo, “Eden Eats,” on Wednesday, March 18.

 

With an average attendance of over 500 people, Eden Eats is a chance for people to try food from a wide variety of businesses, all under one roof. From cupcakes, to Korean food, to soul food, to Filipino food – it’s a veritable international smorgasbord of gastronomic delights. Anyone can attend – just pay $10 at the door for a wristband, good for unlimited samples.

 

Originally conceived as a “Business Expo” where local business owners could network and exchange ideas, the event has evolved into a foodie’s dream. Says Ashley Strasburg, Executive Director of the Castro Valley/Eden Area Chamber of Commerce, “We’ve reinvented this event a few times. For over 30 years it was a business exchange night with maybe a few restaurants involved. More recently, people in the chamber world have been moving out of this business expo type model and doing more food and wine engagement opportunities.”

 

Four years ago, they changed the name of the event to “Taste of Castro Valley” and focused primarily on restaurants, caterers, and home-based food businesses. But this didn’t accurately reflect the chamber’s community, which includes the Eden Area as well (San Lorenzo, Ashland, and Cherryland). So, the name was changed again to “Eden Eats.” The venue has also changed due to growth, from the Moose Lodge to Our Lady of Grace Church.

 

The event is a chance for new businesses to see what dishes work best for big crowds. Says Strasburg, “It’s a test run for many who want to host a booth at our Fall Festival.” It’s also a way to meet potential clients. Case in point – one chamber member who attended later used one of the caterers for their own wedding. Says Strasburg, “It’s a great experience for everyone.” Three judges will vote on the best savory and sweet dishes. There is also a People’s Choice award.

 

Says Strasburg, “People don’t think of Castro Valley or the Eden Area as a food destination. We lack curb appeal. We’re trying to change that and bring awareness to all of the great businesses in the area.” Strasburg cites a few examples, from a Filipino restaurant run by an award-winning chef with a cooking show, to Aroma Cuisine, which won the 2016 A-List Award for Best Indian Restaurant in the Bay Area.

 

Eden Eats showcases about 20 local businesses. And while the focus is mainly on the food, there are still a few non-food businesses in attendance, such as Wedgewood Weddings, an all-in-one wedding planning service, or Spectrum Services, which offers a variety of programs for low-income families and seniors. The event is almost entirely run by chamber volunteers.

 

So, if you are a foodie searching for underground delicacies, want to support the economy in your local unincorporated areas, or are simply looking for a fun way to spend an evening, why not check out Eden Eats?

 

Eden Eats

Wednesday, Mar 18

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Our Lady of Grace Church

3433 Somerset Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 537-5300

www.edenareachamber.com/business-expo-and-taste-of-castro-valley

 

 

Editorial

An existential threat?

 

For all the blemishes and squabbles that arise in our community, when facing emergency situations, unanimity is apparently the rule rather than an exception. The current coronavirus contagion is a test of that character. Citizens, local government and a robust health care community has responded with clear advice and counsel. It is probably not a question of “if” the virus exists among us, but how well leadership in all fields is communicating awareness, preparation and an ability to cope that will calm nerves and inspire faith in reasonable collective action.

 

The phrase “existential” refers to something that affects our very existence. When used in the context of a crisis, it can send chills and dread, but in reality, the situation may not be as dire as it sounds. Focusing on a worldwide problem is a stark reminder that political intent and borders are manmade lines that have shifted over time but do not define the natural world and universe. Biologic challenges similar to coronavirus have appeared before and, although, at times, tragic and widespread, do not lead to annihilation.

 

Understanding natural phenomenon has increased exponentially over past decades, giving a decided edge to meeting the challenge of global health problems. Addressing such issues is not as easy as simply closing borders or shunning others. Mother Nature has a way of overriding such efforts and dispelling the notion that artificial borders control her. Reliance on trade corridors that transcend national boundaries also dispels the notion that any one nation can isolate its economy and life from neighbors, no matter how distant.

 

When the veneer of political righteousness is stripped from catastrophic events, it is the humanity and solidarity of local communities that will prevail. In the current situation, a strong network of emergency management personnel, combined with a rational and organized response is the key to maintaining sense and sensibility to our daily lives. Fear and rumors are toxic, causing unnecessary stress. The advent of a virus is not subject to a blame game, rather a test of preparedness and sound planning. If that has gone awry, corrective action is an immediate concern but not necessarily disastrous. Throughout the year, drills and exercises should give residents a sense of security that when and if disaster strikes, there are procedures and mechanisms in place to address the situation.

 

Government, health facilities and other stakeholders have opened Emergency Operations Centers to monitor and ensure reliable and accurate information is available to residents. In a time of uncertainty, this is a comfort. This is also a time to consider personal preparedness as well. Does your family have a plan of action to communicate and assemble in a disastrous circumstance? If not, your wake-up call is here. A supply of food, water and comfort items should be readily available along with necessities for pets as well.

 

Existential, maybe not… but Mother Nature has definitely knocked at our door.

 

 

Celebrate colors with FOG Holi

Submitted by Ritu Maheshwari

 

This year Festival of the Globe is holding their Holi, or “Festival of Colors,” on Saturday, March 14th, at Mission San Jose High School. The Festival of Colors is an exuberant Indian cultural festival, complete with music, dance, food, and throwing of organic colored powders. The purpose of this event is to promote love, friendship and unity in the community. Join thousands of people in the only Holi with biodegradable skin-friendly colors. Enjoy Kids’ water games, delicious food, DJ, Desi Dhol, and dance to the beats of Bollywood music.

 

Tickets are $5 until March 13, or $6 at the gate on the day of the event. Parking is free. Visit FOGsv.org or Sulekha.com/FOG for more details. Tickets can be purchased at the event’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/2609891675792513/.

 

FOG Holi

Saturday, Mar 14

11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Mission San Jose High School

41717 Palm Ave., Fremont

(510) 304-5619

FOGsv.org

 

 

Free tax preparation services for qualifying Tri-City residents

Submitted by Fremont Family Resource Center

 

Need help doing your taxes? If your annual household income is $56,000 or less, SparkPoint Fremont can do your taxes for free through our Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. We run one of the largest free tax sites in the Bay Area and have been offering quality services since 2002. Our IRS-certified tax preparers are passionate about helping people and are at three convenient Tri-City locations.

 

Fremont Family Resource Center

Through April 15

Walk-ins: Wed & Thurs: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m., Fri: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

April 15 extended hours: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

39155 Liberty St., Building EFGH, Fremont

 

New Haven Adult School

Through April 11

Walk-ins: Sat: 10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

CLOSED Saturday, March 14

600 G St., Union City

(Use H St. entrance)

 

Ohlone College Tri-Cities Career Center

Through April 14

Tuesdays, appointments only

39399 Cherry St., Room 1211, Newark

Register at www.fremontvita.org, or call (510) 574-2026

 

A new drop-off service is also available for those with simple taxes. Drop off your tax documents to our satellite office and pick up the completed return on a different day.

 

Valet VITA

Through April 14

Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Union City Family Center

725 Whipple Rd., Union City

 

For more information and a list of documents to bring, go to www.fremontvita.org or call SparkPoint Fremont at (510) 574-2020.

 

 

Fremont Police Log

Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont PD

 

Friday, February 28

At 9:34 p.m. officers responded to a report of a robbery at Osgood Road and Prune Avenue near the Warm Springs/South Fremont BART station. A 69-year-old man was punched in the face and had his wallet taken from him. The victim described the two male suspects to police who then searched the area and located a male matching the victim’s description in the BART parking lot. He was detained and positively identified by the victim. The victim soon realized he was bleeding, and it was determined he was stabbed during the altercation; the injury was not life-threatening. Officers located evidence on the suspect that linked him to the robbery and stabbing. The man, identified by police as David Carrasquillo, 36, of Oakland, was arrested and faces various charges including assault with a deadly weapon, robbery and elder abuse. The second suspect was not found, an investigation is continuing.

 

 

Fremont City Council

March 3, 2020

 

Announcements:

• Fremont homeowners are eligible for up to $3,000 through earthquake brace and bolt program. Information available at: www.earthquakebracebolt.com. Deadline is March 19, 2020.
• Due to Coronavirus threat, Emergency Operations Center has been activated at “Level III” that is the lowest level and is used to monitor the situation and provide public information and coordinate planning efforts.

 

Consent Calendar:

• Second reading of Rent Review administration fees ordinance.
• Approve 5-year lease with Local Ecology & Agricultural Fremont (LEAF) for use of a portion of California Nursery Historical Park.
• Authorize a contract amendment with Alameda County Behavioral Health Care Services for adolescent substance use disorder services.
• Adopt ordinance establishing speed limits on certain city streets.

 

Ceremonial Items:

• Presentation of Vision Zero for Youth Leadership Award to City of Fremont by National Center for Safe Routes to School. Nancy Pullen-Seufert, Director of National Center for Safe Routes for School presented the award. Fremont Public Works Director Hans Larsen spoke on behalf of the City. Representatives of partners – schools, city employees, county transportation commission, Fremont Mobility Commission – were present for the ceremony.
• Proclaim March 2020 as Eighteenth Annual March for Meals Month. Life ElderCare Executive Director Patricia Osage accepted the proclamation. March for Meals is a national event to bring awareness of the Meals on Wheels program. A public event will be held on Tuesday, March 17 at 9 a.m. behind the courthouse (new location). Anyone can ride along with delivery personnel to experience the process. Volunteers are always welcome. Contact (510) 894-0370 or info@LifeElderCare.org

 

Public Communications:

• Comment on traffic confusion issues on Niles Boulevard.
• Parking problems in Fremont
• For the past 12 months, no meetings of the liaison committee with East Bay Regional Park District.

 

Items removed from Consent:

• Award contract for 2020 Pavement Rehabilitation Project in the amount of $1,977,748.09 to MCK Services, Inc. Public comment regarding exemption from CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act).

 

Other Business:

• Receive presentation on Art in Public Places Program.

 

Council Communications:

• Approve appointment of Daniel Cardenas to Planning Commission.

 

Mayor Lily Mei                       Aye

Vice Mayor Rick Jones           Aye

Vinnie Bacon                          Aye

Raj Salwan                              Aye

Teresa Keng (District 1)         Aye

Jenny Kassan (District 3)        Aye

Yang Shao (District 4)            Aye

 

 

Youth Symphony Orchestra, Spring Concerts in the Tri-City Area

Submitted by Julila Catancio

Photo by Karen Liao Photography

 

Fremont Youth Symphony Orchestra (FYSO) is celebrating its third year as the only non-profit Orchestra in the Tri-City area for youth. Judy Lam, Artistic Director, and Dr. Grace Lai, Associate Director, diligently work with the youth for three hours per week through FYSO. Continuously growing since its inception, FYSO brings classical music to life through musically talented youth. It currently includes Virtuosi and Bravi orchestras, summer ensembles, Preparatory String Ensemble, and will soon have its first Brass Ensemble.

 

FYSO is the next step for children who already take private lessons, but long to be part of a talented team of youth musicians. Having young peers that share a passion for the art of music is a fantastic experience. FYSO gives children a positive environment to grow both as a musician and an individual. Through FYSO, children learn to set goals, create a practice schedule, responsibly turn in their weekly recordings, and challenge themselves with the complexity of their repertoire. FYSO teaches youth to persevere through challenging musical pieces, which in turn enables them to reach their fullest potential. FYSO’s outstanding music is the result of disciplined training, student dedication, and enthusiastic families.

 

At FYSO, everyone works collectively as a team. FYSO’s standing-room-only concerts are evidence of the community’s desire to support the arts. Families of the young musicians volunteer at every event to ensure students succeed. Fremont Symphony provides additional youth programs such as free annual children’s concerts, and youth solo competitions.

 

A free annual children’s concert for grades 4 – 6 will be held on Thursday, March 26 Ohlone College Epler Gym, starting at 10:15 a.m. At the event Fremont Symphony will play music created by the winners of the Fremont Symphony Young Composers’ Concert. FYSO will also be performing alongside professional musicians of the Fremont Symphony on June 6, 2020, where the young musicians will play under the baton of the Maestro Jung-Ho Pac.

 

FYSO schedules auditions on a rolling basis. Young musicians need a minimum of 1 – 5 years of private lessons to join. If you would like to schedule an audition, make donation, or obtain concert information, please visit https://fremontyouthsymphony.org, call (510) 936-0570, or email youth@fremontsymphony.org.

 

 

Homicide Investigation

Submitted by Hayward P.D.

 

On Saturday, March 7, at around midnight, officers responded to the area of Mission Blvd. and Blanche St. for a possible shooting. During the initial investigation, officers did not locate any victims.

Approximately 30 minutes later, two victims suffering from gunshot wounds were located in Oakland. One male was provided medical attention at the scene, however, was pronounced deceased. The other male was transported to a local hospital and was treated. It was determined the victims were associated with the shooting reported at Mission Blvd. and Blanche St.

The identity of the victim is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. Anyone with information related to this homicide is asked to call 510-293-7176.

This is Hayward’s 4th homicide of 2020. The Hayward PD case number is 2020-15657.

 

 

CONTINUING EVENTS:

 

Thursday – Sunday, Jan 7 – Mar 31

Animal Feeding $

3 p.m.

Check for eggs, feed animals hay. Meet at Chicken Coop

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Mondays, Jan 13 – Mar 30

Job Lab

12:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

One-on-one help for job seekers

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

www.aclibrary.org

 

Friday, Jan 24 – Monday, Mar 16

31st Children’s Book Illustrator show

Fri – Sun: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Exhibit of children’s book illustrations

Sun Gallery

1015 E. St., Hayward

(510) 581-4050

http://sungallery.org/

 

Saturday – Thursday, Jan 28 – Apr 7

Explosions of Color

During library hours

Display of 12 paintings by Winnie Thompson

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

www.aclibrary.org

 

Saturdays, Feb 1 – Apr 11

Free Tax Preparation

1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

For households earning $56,000 or less

Photo ID and tax documents required

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1421

www.aclibrary.org

 

Sunday – Saturday, Feb 1 – Mar 27

Studio 820

During library hours

SLZ Adult School watercolor class exhibit

San Leandro Main Library

300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro

(510) 577-3971

www.sanleandro.org/depts/library/default.asp

 

Wednesdays & Thursdays, Feb 5 – Apr 15

AARP Tax Assistance R

10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Free tax preparation and e-filing. Call for appt.

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

(510) 608-1155

https://guides.aclibrary.org/castro-valley

 

Monday – Saturday, Feb 8 – Mar 14

New Members and Emerging Artists and Six by Two Exhibit

Mon – Wed: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Thurs – Sat: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Photography, mixed media, digital print, watercolor

Hayward Main Library

888 C St., Hayward

(510) 881-7980

www.haywardartscouncil.org

 

Monday – Friday, Feb 11 – Mar 31

The Artist Within 3

8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Original art by adults with special needs

Hayward Area Senior Center

22325 North Third St., Hayward

(510) 881-6766

www.haywardrec.org

 

Sundays, Feb 16 – Apr 5

Dove Gallery “Creation: Art of Nature” Exhibit

12 noon – 3 p.m.

Nature artwork in various media and styles

Park Victoria Baptist Church

875 S. Park Victoria Dr., Milpitas

(408) 464-5011

dove@parkvictoria.org

 

Thursday – Sunday, Feb 22 – Mar 21

Colors of Compassion by Bhavna

12 noon – 5 p.m.

Contemporary California landscapes

Olive Hyde Art Gallery

123 Washington Blvd., Fremont

(510) 791-4357

www.olivehydeartguild.org

 

Wednesdays, Feb 26 – Mar 25

Tools For Change $

6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Prevention/intervention techniques for parents of teens

Searles Elementary School

33629 15th St., Union City

(510) 471-2772

(510) 427-5419

sea.mynhusd.org

 

Thursdays, Feb 27 – Apr 2

Spiritual Guides for Today $R

1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

The Universal Christ – 6-part series. Register by 2/25

Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose

43326 Mission Blvd., Fremont

(510) 933-6335

http://bit.ly/2020_RohrUC

 

Thursday – Sunday, Feb 27 – Mar 15

The Mystery of Edwin Drood $

Thurs. 7:30 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 8 p.m., Sun. 2 p.m., Sat. 3/7: 2 p.m.

Dickensian whodunnit with audience-chosen ending

Foothill College – Lohman Theatre

12345 El Monte Rd., Los Altos Hills

(650) 949-7360

https://footill.edu/theatre/productions/drood.html

 

Fridays, Feb 28 – Mar 13

Developing Your Business Plan

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Noncredit course for students who desire to start their own business

Ohlone College Newark Campus

39399 Cherry St., Newark

(510) 742-2300

http://ohlone.edu/freeclases

 

Saturday – Sunday, Feb 29 – May 31

Discovery Days

11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Family crafts and exploration

Coyote Hills

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

www.ebparks.org

 

Sundays, Mar 1 – Apr 26

Animal Feeding Time

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Discuss reptiles, observe feeding time

Sunol Regional Wilderness

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3249

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturdays – Sundays, Mar 1 – Mar 22

Nature Crafts

10 a.m. – 12 noon

Discover the natural world through your artistic side

Sunol Regional Wilderness

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3249

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturdays – Sundays, Mar 1 – Mar 22

Wild Wonders

2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Games, activities, crafts for all ages

Sunol Regional Wilderness

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3249

www.ebparks.org

 

Monday – Saturday, Mar 2 – Mar 31

Brilliant Color…Bold Design

10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Exhibition of acrylic paintings by Terry McMahon

Portola Art Gallery-Allied Arts Guild

75 Arbor Rd., Menlo Park

(650) 321-0220

www.portolaartgallerycom

 

Mondays, Mar 2 – Apr 20

Matter of Balance

12 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Learn how to manage falls and increase activity

Fremont Senior Center

40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont

(510) 790-6600

 

Fridays, Mar 6 – Apr 3

Stations of the Cross for Seniors – with S. Mary Mark Schoenstein, OP

2 p.m.

Inspiring reflections on aging

Dominican Sisters Motherhouse Chapel

43326 Mission Cir., Fremont

(510) 933-6360

www.msjdominicans.org

 

Monday – Friday, Mar 6 – Apr 24

Art is Education

9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

HUSD students’ artwork display

John O’Lague Galleria

777 B St., Hayward

(510) 538-2787

www.haywardartscouncil.org

 

Saturday, Mar 7 – Monday, Mar 24

Milpitas Cares volunteer week

Various times and locations

Short term projects: food pantry, park cleanup, etc.

(408) 240-7915

info@milpitascares.org

https://www.milpitascares.org/

 

Saturday – Sunday, Mar 7 – Mar 15

A Florentine Tragedy and Gianni Schicchi $

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

Two operas filled with action, drama and humor

Bankhead Theater

2400 First St., Livermore

LVOpera.com

 

Friday – Sunday, Mar 7 – Mar 22

Sister Act $

Fri – Sat: 8 p.m. Sun: 2:30 p.m. Thurs 3/12: 8 p.m.

Presented by Stage 1 Community Theatre

Newark Memorial High School Theatre

39375 Cedar Blvd., Newark

(510) 791-0287

www.stage1theatre.org

 

Wednesday – Friday, Mar 11 – Apr 15

Tax Preparation Services

Wed & Thurs: 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Fri: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Free tax help for qualifying individuals

Fremont Family Resource Center

39155 Liberty St., Fremont

(510) 574-2000

(510) 574-2020

www.fremontvita.org

 

Thursdays, Mar 12 – Mar 19

Heart to Heart for Boys $R

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Parents and teens discuss the changes of puberty

Warm Springs Elementary

47370 Warm Springs Blvd., Fremont

(510) 659-2542

www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/classes/class-detail

 

Friday – Saturday, Mar 13 – Mar 22

Footloose The Musical $

7:30 p.m., 2 p.m. matinee on 3/2

Ren McCormack struggles to adapt in a town where dancing and rock music are illegal

Cal State East Bay Theatre

25800 Carlos Bee Blvd., Hayward

www.csueastbaytickets.com

 

Friday – Sunday, Mar 13 – Mar 22

Chicago The Musical $

7 p.m., 2 p.m. matinee on 3/22

Castro Valley High gives em’ the old razzle dazzle!

Castro Valley Center for the Arts

19501 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley

(510) 889-8961

www.cvartsfoundation.org

 

Saturdays, Mar 14 – Apr 11

Free Quality Tax Assistance

10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Tax help for low income households

New Haven Adult School

600 G St., Union City

(510) 489-2185

(510) 574-2020

www.fremntvita.org

 

Saturday – Friday, Mar 14 – Apr 30

Advanced Placement Art Exhibit

During library hours

2D and 3D art from local AP high school students

Hayward Public Library

888 C St., Hayward

(510) 881-7980

haywardartscouncil.org

 

Sunday – Saturday, Mar 14 – Apr 18

Juried Photography Exhibit

Library open hours

120 images by over 50 local photographers

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1421

fremontculturalartscouncil.org

 

Tuesdays, Mar 17 – Apr 14

Free Quality Tax Assistance  R

By Appointment

Tax help for low income households. English, Spanish, Chinese assistance

Ohlone College Newark Campus

39399 Cherry St., Newark

(510) 742-2300

(510) 574-2026

www.fremontvita.org

 

Friday nights

Laugh Track City $

8 p.m.

Fast-paced improv comedy show

Made Up Theatre

4000 Bay St., Suite B, Fremont

(510) 573-3633

https://madeuptheatre.com/

 

Saturday nights

8 p.m.

Audience-inspired improv play

Made Up Theatre

4000 Bay St., Suite B, Fremont

(510) 573-3633

https://madeuptheatre.com/

 

 

THIS WEEK:

 

Wednesday, Mar 11

Paint with Pastels

3:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Develop painting skills and techniques

Irvington Library

41825 Greenpark Dr., Fremont

(510) 795-2626

https://events.aclibrary.org

 

Wednesday, Mar 11

Disrupt! Game Changer! Be Your Own Boss R

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Starting a business, business structures, licenses, permits, zoning

Hayward City Hall, Rm 2A

777 B St., Hayward

(510) 208-0410

www.acsbdc.org

 

Thursday, Mar 12

LEAF Garden Workshop

3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.

Learn about flowers and pollination. Make a bee craft

Centerville Library

3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont

(510) 795-2629

 

Thursday, Mar 12

Family Science Night

6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Fun for the whole family while experiencing 3D learning

Lincoln Elementary School

36111 Bettencourt St, Newark

(510) 818-3500

lrebosura@newarkunified.org

 

Thursday, Mar 12

Disrupt! Game Changer! Be Your Own Boss! R

10 a.m. – 12 noon

Learn about business structures, licenses, permits, taxes, and more

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1421

www.acsbdc.org

 

Friday, Mar 13

Music at the Mission Masquerade Ball -To the Ends of the Earth $

6 p.m.

Evening of entertainment, food, auction items, and surprises

Doubletree Newark-Fremont Hilton Hotel

39900 Balentine Dr., Newark

(510) 490-8390

www.musicatmsj.org

 

Friday, Mar 13

Toddler Ramble: Mad Scientists $

10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Kids 1-3 experiment, play and exploration

Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center

4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward

(510) 670-7270

www.haywardrec.org/hayshore.html

 

Friday, Mar 13

International Women’s Day R

5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Cocktails, buffet, speakers

Hayward City Hall

777 B St., Hayward

(510) 208-0410

www.hayward-ca.gov

 

Friday, Mar 13

Community Forum: Q&A with Les Dent R

12 noon – 1 p.m.

Meet Les Dent, diagnosed with Williams Syndrome. Bring lunch

Fremont Family Resource Center, Millennium Room

39155 Liberty St., Fremont

(510) 477-1000 x130

https://fremont.gov/228/Family-Resource-Center

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Stilt Walkers

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Improve your balance

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Coffee with a Cop

9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Ask questions, voice concerns, get to know the officers in your neighborhood

Peet’s Coffee Milpitas

543 E. Calaveras Blvd., Milpitas

(408) 586-2527

(408) 586-2526

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Phlower Photography

9:30 a.m.- 11:00 a.m.

Take pictures in the Butterfly Garden and learn how to attract birds and insects. Ages 12+

Coyote Hills

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Hens Lay Eggs

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Listen to a story, touch a hen’s feather, search the coop for eggs

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Documentary Film “The Cave”

1:30 p.m.

The lives of nurses in an underground hospital in war-torn Syria

Niles Discovery Church of Fremont

36600 Niles Blvd., Fremont

(510) 797-0895

www.nilesdiscoverychurch.org

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Art Demo

2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Monica Satterthwaite describes her watercolor painting techniques

Adobe Art Center

20395 San Miguel Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 881-6735

www.adobegallery.org

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Ohlone Village Site Tour

1:30 – 3:30 p.m.

.5 mile walk to a 2,000-year-old Ohlone village site

Coyote Hills

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Brewing on the Farm $R

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Three-part homebrewing workshop. Brew and bottle a batch to take home

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Belly Dance with Azra

2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Learn basic hip movements, body isolations, and more

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1421

www.aclibrary.org

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Fremont Beekeepers Meeting

3 p.m. to sunset

What you should be doing with hives right now and for spring

LEAF C.R. Stone Garden

55 Mowry Ave., Fremont

FremontLEAF@gmail.com

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Spaghetti Feed $

4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Dinner, silent auction, raffle, kid’s zone

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

38801 Blacow Rd., Fremont

(510) 793-6285

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Living in Earthquake Country $

10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Walking tours for children and families

Fremont Central Park behind Community Center

40204 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont

(510) 790-5546

http://msnucleus.org/haywardfault/classes

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Second Saturday Author Series

2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Luanne Oleas reads from her novel “Flying Blind”

Half Price Books

39152 Fremont Blvd., Fremont

(510) 744-0333

www.cwc-fremontareawriters.org

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Bird Walk $

10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Naturalist led bird hike. Ages 12+

Eden Landing Ecological Reserve

Eden Lndg Corner of Clawiter and Arden Rd., Hayward

(510) 670-7270

haywardrec.org/hayshore.html

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Preserving Plants

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Learn how to prolong the lives of plants

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Pi Day Hike $

10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Hike to high valley barn for a delicious celebration. Ages 7+

Sunol Regional Wilderness

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3249

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Mar 14

James Logan Athletics Boosters Crab Feed $

5 p.m.

All you can eat dinner, raffle, auction, music

Mark Green Sports Complex

31224 Union City Blvd., Union City

(510) 675-5808

www.jameslogan.org/store/crabfeed

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Holi: Festival of Colors $

11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Religious festival of colors, friendship and harmony

Mission San Jose High School

41717 Palm Ave., Fremont

(510) 657-3600

www.fogsv.org

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Storytime with Ms. Monika

11 a.m.

Celebrate Mo Willems!

Books on B

1014 B St., Hayward

(510) 538-3943

www.booksonb.com

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Final Day of Girl Scout Cookie Season

11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Hosted by Makaila from Troop #30159

Books on B

1014 B St., Hayward

(510) 538-3943

www.booksonb.com

 

Saturday, Mar 14

Pi Day

3:14 p.m.

Enjoy a pie, bring your own

Books on B

1014 B St., Hayward

(510) 538-3943

www.booksonb.com

 

Saturday, Mar 14 – Sunday, Mar 15

Eat Your Greens $

Sat. 7 p.m. & Sun. 4 p.m.

Delicious dose of silliness in song

Niles Discovery Church of Fremont

36600 Niles Blvd., Fremont

(510) 797-0895

www.chambersingers.org

 

Saturday, Mar 15

Wake Up the Farm

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Help prepare a snack for the sheep and goats

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Mar 15

Amazing Amphibians

10 a.m. – 12 noon and 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

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

Coyote Hills

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Mar 15

Swing Fever $

1 p.m.

Come enjoy an afternoon of jazz

Thornton Jr. High, Multi-Use Auditorium

4357 Thornton Ave., Fremont

(510) 659-2542

www.lov.org

 

Sunday, Mar 15

Fremont Area Writers Open Mic

3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Read your original work in a public venue

Starbucks Newark

39201 Cedar Blvd., Newark

www.cwc-fremontareawriters.org

 

Sunday, Mar 15

Gourmet Popcorn

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Spice up some farm-grown popcorn with fresh herbs, spices, and sugar

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Mar 15

Pictures of the Past

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Discover the wonderful world of early photography

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Mar 15

Froggy Friends

1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Family friendly frog activities and hike

Sunol Regional Wilderness

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3249

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Mar 15

Introduction to Unconscious Bias

2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Workshop on racial signaling

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

www.aclibrary.org

 

Sunday, Mar 15

Science is Fun

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Amazing experiments for grades 1-4

Union City Branch Library

34007 Alvarado Niles Rd., Union City

(510) 745-1464

 

Sunday, Mar 15

Sunday Math Tutoring

3 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Open to elementary and junior high school students

Newark Branch Library

6300 Civic Terrace Ave., Newark

(510) 284-0684

www.aclibrary.com

 

Monday, Mar 16

Milpitas Rotary Club Meeting

12 noon – 1:15 p.m.

Speaker Milpitas High School Head Varsity Football Coach Kelly King

Dave and Busters

940 Great Mall Dr., Milpitas

(408) 957-9215

http://www.clubrunner.ca/milpitas

 

Monday, Mar 16

FCAC All Arts Summit

5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Meet with representatives of local arts organizations

Fremont Cultural Arts Council

3375 Country Dr., Fremont

(510) 794-7166

http://fremontculturalartscouncil.org

 

Monday, Mar 16

Bereavement Support Group

10:30 a.m.-12:00 noon

For adults 55 and older

Fremont Senior Center

40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont

(510) 790-6600

 

Monday, Mar 16

Ohlone College Golf Tournament $

12:30 p.m.

Contests, raffle, auction, banquet dinner

Castlewood Country Club

707 Country Club Cir., Pleasanton

(510) 659-6053

www.ohlonefoundation.org

 

Tuesday, Mar 17

Hikes for Tykes

10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Search for rainbows! Meet at Bort Meadow

Lake Chabot

17600 Lake Chabot Rd., Castro Valley

(888) 327-2757

www.ebparks.org

 

Wednesday, Mar 18

Eden Eats $

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Our Lady of Grace Church

3433 Somerset Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 537-5300

www.edenareachamber.com/

 

Friday, Mar 20

Unity Dinner $R

5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

The path forward for Kashmir

India Community Center

525 Los Coches St., Milpitas

(408) 934-1130

https://iacf-unity-dinner-2020.eventbrite.com

Photos in 1 new Sharon

 

 

Juried Photography Exhibit

By Arathi Satish

 

Photography is a very powerful art medium, with the potential to change the constantly evolving world. In order to see the world as viewed by local photographers, Fremont Cultural Arts Council (FCAC) and City of Fremont are sponsoring the 26th Annual “Juried Photography Exhibit.” Rajeev Shankar, FCAC Juried Exhibit Chair said, “We had an overwhelming number of entries this year. It was especially heartening to see more than 40 entries from local students… The student photos show their creative nature and keen eye for observing surroundings and capturing them.”

 

In a juried show, artists have to present their work to a panel of judges to be selected. Rajeev Shankar pointed out, “The high quality of images made it a tough choice. The judges had a spirited discussion and had a difficult time in selecting the images to be displayed.” Entries were judged based on creativity, photographic quality, and effectiveness in conveying beauty or a concept.

 

The event is very popular among the local photographers. This year, 120 images by over 50 photographers will be displayed. The exhibit showcases original photographs by Fremont residents, students, employees of Fremont businesses, and members of FCAC or of the Fremont Photographic Society. Significant digital image enhancements and modifications were permitted, so long as all important elements appearing in the image were photographic in origin.

 

The opening night reception will be held Saturday, March 14, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and photographs selected by the judges will be on display on the second floor of the Fremont Main Library. Light refreshments will be served, and it will be a good opportunity to meet local photographers and hear the stories behind each photograph. Visitors can also buy prints. Title cards will indicate whether a specific photograph is available for sale, and a master list of items and prices will be kept at the reference desk. Interested visitors are given the photographer’s contact information, and sales are between the photographer and the buyer. Any print sold will remain in the exhibit until the final day, Saturday, April 18.

 

In addition to the awards selected by the jury, a few special awards will also be given. Visitors at the opening night reception will be able to vote to select the winner of the People’s Choice Award. The Alvin Dockter Nature Photography Award will be selected by the jury. The President’s Award will be selected by Julie Gilson, President of FCAC. Julie Gilson said, “Being able to select ‘my favorite’ photo will be a new experience for me as incoming President. Since I’m not an artist, but an aficionado of art, my selection process is entirely subjective.” As a voter for People’s Choice in prior years, she always had difficulty narrowing down her final choice. Luckily, this year she will be able to select two finalists to receive the President’s Award.

 

More details of the event can be found online at www.fremontculturalartscouncil.org. For more information, contact Exhibit Chairman Rajeev Shankar at (510) 399-3049 or fcacphotoshow2020@gmail.com.

 

2020 Juried Photography Exhibit

Saturday, Mar 14 – Saturday, Apr 18

During library hours

 

Opening Night Reception

Saturday, Mar 14

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

 

Fremont Main Library, 2nd Floor

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1400

www.fremontculturalartscouncil.org

 

 

Local Chapter Celebrates 100 years of the League of Women Voters

By Roelle Balan

 

March is Women’s History month, and an important part of women’s history is the day they gained the right to vote.

 

It all started when the Seneca Falls Convention drafted a “Declaration of Sentiments” in July of 1848. Historians consider this the founding document of the women’s rights movement. Women finally won the right to vote on August 18, 1920 when the 19th amendment of the U.S. Constitution was approved. Overall, it took 72 years of political advocacy for women to get the right to vote.

 

The League of Women Voters (the “League” for short) of Fremont, Newark, and Union City celebrated that victory and their 100th anniversary as an organization. The event took place in Artist’s Walk Community Center on Sunday February 23 from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. Attendees enjoyed sandwiches, cheese, crackers, fruit and other snacks while League members mingled with guests and local officials.

 

The League of Women Voters was formed on February 14, 1920. The nonpartisan political organization has 800 state and local chapters throughout the U.S. in all 50 states, Washington DC, The Virgin Islands, and Hong Kong. Their mission is to expand democracy for all through educational and advocacy efforts.

 

When it comes to influencing policy, making sure people have information is as important as parades and protests. “We are only as effective as we can be when we have everyone in the community represented,” said Helen Hutchinson, League member from Oakland and Former president of the League of Women Voters of California, during her keynote speech. “We continue to be an organization that envisions a Democracy where every citizen has the right, the desire, the knowledge and the confidence to participate.”

 

Hutchinson said the League advocates for voting rights, government transparency, fair processes, redistricting, and making sure redistricting is fair and representative. The state has just under 8,000 League members, according to an email sent by Andrew Muse-Fisher, Civic Engagement Coordinator of the League of Women Voters of California.

 

The mayors of Union City and Fremont attended the event. “If we don’t educate our youth to let people know what a privilege [voting] is, I think a lot of them may just take it for granted and assume it’s always been this way, when it hasn’t,” said Fremont Mayor Lily Mei.

 

“At the national level, women are still struggling for their rightful place,” Union City Mayor Carol Dutra-Vernaci said during her speech. She also proudly mentioned that Lily Mei is now a Trustee of the United States Conference of Mayors. Adding that the two mayors present were examples of women in political leadership roles, Dutra-Vernaci said, “I certainly encourage women, and men of course, not just to vote but also to run for office.”

 

Syeda Inamdar, president of the League of Women Voters of Fremont, Newark and Union City reminded everyone the fight for women’s right to vote was a decades-long, painful struggle. “With this right comes responsibility to be informed, to stay engaged, and to vote. Our own League here has been active in the Tri-City area for over 60 years, helping the community to do exactly that by empowering voters and defending democracy.”

 

“It’s not an idea that our constitutional rights are being chipped away: they’re being obliterated,” California senator Bob Wieckowski said. “We’re a divided country now, that’s unfortunate, but the League helps us come together, and creates a public forum where we can discuss issues of great importance to us.”

 

The event concluded with a song about freedom performed by the East Bay People’s Choir (EBPC). The group is led by Ofer dal Lal artistic director of Mission Peak Chamber Singers (MPCS), the non-profit organization that put together EBPC. Lal said anyone of any age and musical background can join the choir free of charge. As they sang, a League staff member passed out cake. People in the room had a smile on their face as they watched the choir. It may be fitting to say the choir represented Democracy—everyone is different, everyone has a reason to come together, and like the choir, the right and privilege to vote and discuss politics is free.

 

League of Women Voters of Fremont, Newark and Union City

(510) 794-5783

https://www.lwv.org/local-leagues/lwv-fremontnewarkunion

 

 

Want to be Meals on Wheels volunteer?

Submitted by Deepa Chordiya

 

LIFE ElderCare invites the public to join the team for “March for Meals” 2020, an annual event to raise awareness of the importance of Meals on Wheels in the community. The festivities will take place on Tuesday March 17, with light refreshments and remarks to inspire the Meals on Wheels volunteers and community members.

 

LIFE Director Patricia Osage, Fremont Mayor Lily Mei, and Newark Mayor Al Nagy will deliver the opening remarks. Tri-City Council members, members from the offices of Representative Khanna, Senator Wieckowski, and Assemblymember Chu, and other community leaders will also attend the event.

 

Interested participants for ride-alongs will be matched with a Meals on Wheels volunteer to help deliver meals. Can’t make it on March 17? A limited number of other dates are available, too. For more information and to RSVP, call (510) 894-0370, ext. 8 or email Deepa Chordiya at dchordiya@lifeeldercare.org.

 

LIFE ElderCare March for Meals

Tuesday, Mar 17

9:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Fremont Hall of Justice Lot

(enter from Walnut Ave)

39439 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont

(510) 894-0370, ext. 8

dchordiya@lifeeldercare.org

https://lifeeldercare.org/

 

 

Massage Establishment Permits Revoked

Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont P.D.

 

The City of Fremont revoked eight massage establishment permits after a multi-department investigation found substantial evidence of prostitution activity. In response to numerous community complaints of illegal activity occurring at licensed massage parlors operating in the City of Fremont, the Fremont Police Department initiated an investigation.  The investigation uncovered numerous massage parlors acting as fronts for prostitution. These individuals and businesses contribute to the international epidemic of Human Trafficking and put our citizens health and safety at risk.

 

In cooperation with staff from the City of Fremont Finance Department/Revenue Division, Code Enforcement, Building Department, California Employment Development Department, and California Department of Industrial Relations the below listed businesses were served with letters of closure and their massage establishment permits were revoked. 

 

1. Amazing Spa-34253 Fremont Blvd, Fremont, Ca 94555
2. Lucky Star 3667 Thornton Av. Fremont Ca 94536
3. Roland Spa- 3910 Lake Arrowhead Av. Suite A, Fremont Ca 94555
4. Eurasia Day Spa- 3909 Stevenson Bl. Suite #C, Fremont, Ca.
5. Venus Skin Care Spa- 40501 Fremont Bl, Fremont, Ca 94538
6. J&A Spa 4171 Cushing Pkwy. Fremont Ca 94539
7. Diamond Spa- 43446 Grimmer Bl, Fremont Ca 94538

8.Princess Salon- 3769 Peralta Bl., Suite F, Fremont Ca. 94536

 

If you have any information about this ongoing investigation, please contact Detective Hamblin at 510-790-6949 or email Rhamblin@fremont.gov.

 

 

Children celebrate a world of music and song

Submitted by Carol Zilli

 

Focusing on a theme that “Music Makes the World Go ‘Round,” about 300 children from Music for Minors II (MFMII) recently showed off their musical and vocal chops in their winter Showcase 2020 Concert in Fremont.

 

An audience of about 700 people attended the February 21 performance at Harbor Light church which included music from nations around the world and vocals sung in many languages. Students played a variety of musical instruments including sticks, drums, recorders and even boomwhacker percussion tubes.

 

For 32 years the non-profit Music for Minors II has been providing music enrichment programs in pre-school and elementary schools throughout the East Bay. Community volunteers who would like to learn more about the program can visit their website at www.musicforminors2.org or call (510) 733-1189.

 

 

Milpitas Police Log

Submitted by Lt. John Torrez, Milpitas PD

 

Thursday, February 6

• At 1:59 a.m. an unknown suspect burglarized a home on the 500 block of Berkshire Place. Prior to the burglary someone had turned electrical power to the residence off. Three weeks later, at about 3:45 a.m. on February 27, someone turned off electrical power to a residence on the 1100 block of Eagle Ridge Way and entered through an unlocked side garage door where he was confronted by the homeowner and fled. Officers checked surveillance cameras in both neighborhoods and obtained video footage of the suspect and his vehicle.

 

Later, an officer recognized the vehicle and suspect in the video from a prior call about a suspicious vehicle on Ethyl Court. This information helped detectives identify Lukus James Phillips, 43, of Milpitas as the suspect in the two residential burglaries. Detectives found Phillips getting into his vehicle on Tuesday, March 3 on the 300 block of Junipero Drive and tried to detain him. Instead, Phillips drove his vehicle toward an unmarked police car and rammed it head-on. He was arrested at the scene and later booked into Santa Clara County Main Jail where he faces various charges including residential burglaries and assault with a deadly weapon on an officer.

 

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call the Milpitas Police Department at (408) 586-2400. Information can also be given anonymously by calling the Crime Tip Hotline at (408) 586-2500 or via the Milpitas Police Department Website at: http://www.ci.milpitas.ca.gov/crimetip.

 

 

Milpitas City Council

March 3, 2020

 

Pledge of Allegiance was led by Boy Scouts Troop 92

 

Proclamation:

March, 2020 was proclaimed as American Red Cross Month

 

Consent Calendar:

• Amended Milpitas Municipal Code to establish regulations for Short-Term Rentals.
• Initiated proceedings for the annual levy and collection of assessments for Landscaping and Lighting Maintenance Assessment District No. 95-1, McCarthy Ranch and District No. 98-1, Sinclair Horizon.
• Acknowledged receipt of compliance report by the Milpitas Fire Department regarding the inspection of certain occupancies.
• Granted acceptance of the Transit Area Specific Plan On-Street Parking Program.
• Approved list of Pre-qualified bidders and authorized advertisement for bids for Fire Station No. 2 Replacement.
• Authorized execution of a Stormwater Management Facilities Operation and Maintenance Agreement for Alps Group, Inc. for the Holiday Inn development project at 1100 Cadillac Court.
• Authorized Amendment to the Agreement with DeltaWRX, LLC for Law Enforcement Records Management System Consulting Services.
• Received summary report on Assembly Bill 291 and Senate Bill 378 and authorized letters of support.
• Appointed Mercedes Albana to a term of three years on the Milpitas Planning Commission.
• Authorized public outreach, develop policy options to prohibit smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke in multi-unit housing, and prepare an implementation plan for future consideration.
• Authorized the submittal of 2019 Housing Element Annual Progress Report and Housing Successor Agency Annual Report to California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).
• Authorized agreement with Chandler Asset Management for a five-year contract for investment services to manage the City’s pooled portfolio.

 

Public Hearing:

• Following a short public hearing directed the County of Santa Clara Consumer and Environmental Protection Agency-2020 Weed Abatement Program to abate the nuisance.

 

Community Development:

• Approve a budget amendment for Silicon Valley Independent Living Center (SVILC) to fund the Pilot Rent Relief Program.

 

Community Services and Sustainable Infrastructure:

• Authorized a five-year agreement with BrightView Landscape Services Inc. for Citywide Parks Maintenance Services.

 

Leadership and Support Services:

• Amended the Classification Plan adjusting salary ranges for Unrepresented Police Management and specific Unrepresented Fire Management Classifications.

 

Rich Tran (Mayor)                              Aye    

Bob Nunez (Vice Mayor)                   Aye    

Carmen Montano                                Aye    

Karina Dominguez                              Absent

Anthony Phan                                     Aye

 

 

Mission Valley Track and Field Club

 

Mission Valley Track and Field Club was formed in 1982 and is based at James Logan High School (Union City). The Club is a non-profit organization, which serves a variety of ages and groups specifically in Union City but is open to anyone including Seniors, Military Vets, Special Needs students, Special Olympians, Youth, Para Olympians and Olympians in Need.

 

The club is active all year long supporting these groups as well as hosting a variety of events and supporting the community. Its motto is promoting Life Skills through the sport of Track and Field.

 

Founder/President Lee Webb is in his 38th year with the club that has produced 1000’s of National Qualifiers and over 500 All-Americans. Webb has coached four World Youth Teams and was the Head Coach in 2013 when the team went to the Ukraine; he has been inducted into eight Hall of Fames. Webb was an Olympic Trials Qualifier in the Decathlon and Javelin and drafted by the Seattle Seahawks football team.

 

For more information, visit: Missionvalleytrackandfield.com

 

 

Davis Street MoTown Gala

Submitted by Kali Sherman

 

The Davis Street Community Center will be hosting its Annual Fundraiser Gala, “Celebrating Motown” on Wednesday, March 25, at the Sequoyah Country Club in Oakland. The event will raise critically needed funds to support all of Davis Street’s programs.

 

Motown was the most successful African American-owned record label, founded by Berry Gordy in 1960. The music style combines jazz, funk, gospel, and blues. Motown Records and its subsidiaries boast iconic artists such as Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, and Diana Ross. At Davis Street’s gala, music, entertainment, and signature drinks will reflect the Motown theme. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in Motown clothing styles, which pull from the 1960’s and 1970’s with bright colors, suits, dresses, jumpsuits, sequins, velvet, feathers, fringe, and flared sleeves and pants.

 

Programs supported by the gala include a Federally Qualified Health Center providing primary medical, dental, women’s health, pediatric services, optometry, and behavioral health services; programs for adults with developmental disabilities; food and clothing pantry for low-income families; housing and utility assistance, subsidized child care; and four affordable childcare centers.

 

For more information about the event, email development@davisstreet.org.

 

Motown Gala

Wednesday, Mar 25

5:30 p.m.

Sequoyah Country Club

4550 Healey Rd., Oakland

(510) 347-4620 ext. 113

ksherman@davisstreet.org

Tickets: $250, sponsorships available

 

 

Fremont News Briefs

Submitted by Cheryl Golden

 

Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

As concerns about the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) increase, the City of Fremont is continuing to monitor the outbreak’s progress in close coordination with local agencies, and regional public health and emergency medical services personnel. Visit www.Fremont.gov/Coronavirus for more information, including helpful resources and updates.

 

Call for Artists

The City of Fremont is currently accepting proposals from artists to install a temporary mural at the temporary Housing Navigation Center (HNC). Fremont’s HNC is a response to the community’s growing homelessness crisis. It will provide a clean and safe environment that allows homeless persons to rebuild their lives and focus on finding stable permanent housing.

 

The mural installed at the HNC will be positive in nature, inspire hope, and reflect the participants’ journey out of homelessness. The HNC has limited public access, and the intention of the mural is to create a welcoming environment for participants.

 

The artist is encouraged to include community participation in the creation of the mural through population-specific focus groups or community volunteering for painting the mural. The deadline for submissions is Wednesday, April 1. Artists interested in applying can visit www.Fremont.gov/NavigationCenterArt for complete details.

 

Earthquake Brace + Bolt Program

Homeowners are now eligible for up to $3,000 to make their houses less vulnerable to earthquake damage through Earthquake Brace + Bolt, a program jointly administered by the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) and California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). The program offers eligible homeowners grant money to perform a seismic retrofit of their house. Homeowners can apply online at www.EarthquakeBraceBolt.com. The application deadline is Thursday, March 19.

 

Since the program was founded in 2013, Earthquake Brace + Bolt grants have helped more than 9,000 homeowners retrofit their houses. Because older houses are more likely to slide off their foundation during an earthquake, an Earthquake Brace + Bolt seismic retrofit braces the cripple walls, when present, and bolts the house to the foundation, making the house more resistant to earthquake damage.

 

More than 1.2 million houses in high-hazard areas are particularly vulnerable to earthquakes because of the type of construction, according to the CEA. These homes are typically built before 1980 and are are wood-framed with a raised foundation and may have a cripple wall in the crawl space under the house. For more information about this program and to apply, visit www.EarthquakeBraceBolt.com.

 

eNews Subscription Service

Community members can stay informed on City of Fremont happenings with the eNews subscription service that sends digital updates via email or text. To sign up, visit www.Fremont.gov/eNews and subscribe with an email address and/or mobile phone number.

 

Users can choose from a variety of topics they are interested in, including meeting agendas and minutes, upcoming city events, news, volunteer opportunities, and more. Additionally, many City of Fremont departments develop individual digital newsletters to provide the community with in-depth information on their current activities.

 

Register at the below links:

• Community Development Updates on developments, affordable housing, and permitting services. www.Fremont.gov/DevelopmentDigest.
• Recreation Services Information about classes, camps, events, volunteer opportunities, and part-time recreation jobs. www.Fremont.gov/RecreationNewsletter.
• Fremont Green Challenge Updates on the City’s sustainability efforts and eco-friendly actions, programs, and events. www.Fremont.gov/FGCNewsletter.
• Age-Friendly Fremont Local information on activities, resources, events, and issues impacting older adults and their families as part of Fremont’s involvement in the AARP Age-Friendly City Network. To receive Age-Friendly, send a subscription request to seniorcenter@fremont.gov. www.Fremont.gov/AgeFriendlyNewsletter.
• Family Resource Center Updates from 20+ partner agencies at the FRC, as well as info about FRC services, classes and special events. To receive FRC News, send a subscription request to FRC@fremont.gov. www.Fremont.gov/FRCNewsletter.

 

 

Small spaces can have big appeal

Article and photos by Daniel O'Donnell

 

It is estimated that more than 300,000 people traveled to California during the Gold Rush between 1848 and 1852. Many ended up working for large mining companies, but some came for small plots of land they could claim and prospect for gold. Even these small claims had the potential to make someone rich. Today, land in California is valuable for different reasons. Even the smallest, sometimes unattended areas such a balcony or modest space between townhouses or different apartment buildings have great value not only in their square footage, but in their potential to look amazing.

 

Creating a garden in a small space can have limitations but these are not negative. Limiting factors such as lack of light or easy access can be viewed as positive because they simplify the choices to make about the plants and materials. Scant space also minimizes the number of plants that can be added which will reduce maintenance.

 

Small spaces for gardening have a limited amount of actual ground to plant in. Containers may also be used for planting. Both have the potential for creating a nice garden; however, planters have a few more aspects to consider. Living walls can afford someone with limited space the room to create a garden in lieu of pots. However, vertical gardening takes some expertise to create and requires continuous maintenance. Planters, on the other hand, are made from a wide variety of materials; come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, textures, and patterns; and can be relatively simple to care for.

 

Placing an emphasis on the color of one or multiple containers is arguably the most important factor when choosing which ones to use in a small setting. It can be difficult to get a lot of color from plants on a small balcony, for example, since the plant choices will be limited due to the constrained environmental conditions. Planters can provide year-round color. Additional color can be achieved by using colored stones as a mulch and/or in the tray that the container sits on.

 

Planting in containers, unlike growing plants in the ground, will require a growing medium to be brought in for the initial planting and new soil every few years for repotting. However, there are different growing media that are tailored to specific plants and can provide an advantage over plants being grown in the ground. Nutritional content and degree of drainage are the two main factors that determine which potting soil to use.

 

Lyngso Garden Materials in San Carlos–www.lyngsogarden.com–sells a lightweight potting soil for containers on rooftops and balconies. It can not only reduce the weight of a planter on a petite balcony but make filling it and moving it much easier. The lightweight mix can also be easier to carry to containers in out of the way areas. Lava rock, perlite, or small wood chips can be used to make a personal favorite potting soil lighter.

 

Plants in containers on small balconies and plants grown in the ground in modest spaces will be more successful if they have automated irrigation. A hose faucet timer is an inexpensive way to give plants in small spaces a consistent and dependable source of water. These timers attach directly to an outdoor faucet and can be connected to drip irrigation lines placed in planters or in tiny yards. Orbit offers the B-Hyve, a Bluetooth enabled hose faucet timer with a free app for just under $40.00, which allows a person control from their smart device.

 

When choosing plants for a small area or tiny balcony, the environmental conditions should be considered. Wind, amount of light received, and space limitations are some of the factors that might limit plant choices. Ornamental characteristics such as foliage or bark color, leaf pattern, and plant shape can be considered once the habitat criteria are established. If planted in containers, the color, shape, and texture of the plant’s foliage should complement them or any colorful outdoor furniture nearby.

 

Keep it simple. Although small spaces can support a diverse group of plants, repeating the same ones that work well in the space will amplify the effect. Repetition of healthy plants looks far more impressive than a variety of different struggling ones. Since space is limited, smaller plants should be grown in front of taller ones to ensure they get enough light in tiny areas.

 

Prospectors during the Gold Rush worked very hard on small plots of land with the hope of striking gold. Today space is valuable and creating a garden in even the smallest spaces might not make a person wealthy but will enrich their daily life.

 

Daniel O’Donnell is the co-owner and operator of an organic landscape design/build company in Fremont. www.Chrysalis-Gardens.com

 

 

Online guide offers links to community services

Submitted by Alameda County

 

Officials from the Alameda County Probation Department recently announced the launch of an online Re-entry Resource Portal aimed at helping formerly incarcerated people assimilate back into the community.

 

The portal, announced March 2, provides an easy and accessible location to connect with agencies that provide various services including employment, housing, transportation, medical, mental health and legal assistance. To access the portal, visit the 211 Alameda County website at www.211alamedacounty.org, then click the “Reentry Services” link and follow the prompts.

The Union City Police Department Has Partnered With RING!

Submitted by Union City P.D.

 

UCPD wants you to help us keep our neighborhoods safe, and here’s how you can do it. By visiting https://shop.ring.com/pages/neighbors and downloading the free Neighbors by RING platform on your phone, computer, or tablet, you can view real-time crime and safety-related videos posted by your neighbors.

 

UCPD can view and respond to videos posted on the Neighbors app and we can submit video requests to help with active investigations in your area. By working together, we can all make Union City a safer community and help reduce crime.

 

RING users, Police do not have access to the locations of cameras, or any data not provided voluntarily through a request for assistance.

 

We appreciate our new partnership with the RING Neighbors Portal and look forward to this additional tool in our toolbox and continued collaboration with the community to help keep our neighborhoods safe.

 

For more information, please visit: https://shop.ring.com/pages/neighbors

 

For the UCPD procedure for the RING Application, visit our city website: https://www.unioncity.org/DocumentCenter/View/3418/609-RING_Neighbors_App_Law_Enforcement_Portal_and_CrimeReportscom_Video_surveillance_Registry_Redacted?bidId=

 

 

San Leandro City Council

March 2, 2020

 

Recognitions:

• Proclamation declaring March 2020 American Red Cross month.

                                                                                             

Public Comments:

• Resident expressed frustration about highly impacted street parking in Davis West neighborhood.
• Resident expressed concern about the high proportion of soft story structures and their structural stability during earthquakes and called for the council to consider a seismic retrofit ordinance.
• Resident expressed frustration with the federal franchise tax board.
• Several residents expressed concern about wood burning in San Leandro and its negative health and environmental outcomes.
• Several residents from the community group Unity in the Community spoke on the need for the council to gather statistics on racial and gender diversity throughout city staff.

 

Public Hearings:

• Resolution to amend title 5, chapter 6 of the San Leandro Administrative Code amending the cannabis product manufacturing pilot program.
• Ordinance to amend and re-chapter the San Leandro Zoning Code to accommodate recent changes in state law, to make corrections and address inconsistencies, and discontinue the cap on cannabis product manufacturing permits.

Item passed: 6-0, Cutter absent.

 

Consent Calendar:

• Previous council minutes passed.

 

Items removed from Consent Calendar:

• Resolution approving a consulting services agreement with Miller Planning Associates to prepare objective residential and mixed-use design and development standards.
• Negotiate and execute amendment No. 1 to the 1995 agreement for maintenance of state highways in San Leandro and the Freeway Maintenance Agreement. Agreements between the State of California and the City of San Leandro for the purpose of distributing maintenance costs with Caltrans.

 

Action Items:

• Execute a fourteenth letter amendment of the franchise agreement to modify the annual rate adjustment methodology for solid waste, recyclables, and green waste services between the city and Alameda County Industries, Inc.
  • Motion to continue item while staff research pricing options for fixed income and senior customers as well as incentives for purchasing smaller waste containers.

 

Reports:

• Councilmember Cox attended the Alameda County Waste Management meeting where they discussed the review of the Altamont property and conducting carbon farming tests. She also attended the Downtown San Leandro Improvement Association meeting where a new executive director was installed.
• Councilmember Lopez attended the Bus Rapid Transit meeting where they discussed how systems would be coming online this summer.
• Councilmember Hernandez attended the East Bay Community Energy meeting and will be traveling to Avila beach in the coming weeks to view the nuclear energy plant there.
• Councilmember Aguilar attended the Associated Bay Area Governments General Assembly meeting where they approved a budget for the fiscal year. He also attended the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement meeting where they welcomed two new board members.
• Councilmember Lee attended a Unity in the Community special meeting where the history of the organization and future plans were discussed.

 

City Council Calendar and Announcements:

• Vice Mayor Ballew, along with Councilmember Lee and Councilmember Lopez, announced that he would be attending the National League of Cities conference in D.C. He also announced that he would be absent at the April 6th meeting.
• Councilmember Hernandez will be attending an environmental plan committee meeting. He also attended Career Day on February 25th.
• Councilmember Aguilar will be dialing in to several sessions at the National League of Cities conference.

 

Councilmember Requests to Schedule Agenda Items

• Request staff report on policies surrounding local inclusion and diversity for women and minority owned business and how contracts and business licenses are awarded. Item passed: 6-0, Cutter absent.
• Request staff report about a subsidized earthquake retrofit program for soft story wood frame structures and nonductile concrete structures. Item passed: 6-0, Cutter absent.

 

*To close the meeting Vice Mayor Ballew announced a moment of silence for former San Leandro Police Dispatcher Jim Rodgers’ passing.

 

Mayor Pauline Russo Cutter                           Absent

Vice Mayor Pete Ballew                                 Aye

Victor Aguilar, Jr.                                           Aye

Ed Hernandez                                                 Aye

Benny Lee                                                       Aye

Deborah Cox                                                   Aye

Corina Lopez                                                  Aye

 

 

Niles Development Updates

 

Much of the Niles area is historic. It is also an area where the residents have a great deal of pride in its unique character. Recently, there have been several proposals for a variety of housing projects in the area. Here is a summary of the status of some of those proposals.

 

Rex Homes GPA Denied

On February 18, the City Council unanimously upheld the Planning Commission’s recommendation to deny a General Plan Amendment (GPA) Request to change a vacant lot at the corner of Nursery Avenue and Niles Boulevard from open space to residential. In response to the Planning Commission’s objections to the original submission of 5 single-family houses each with its own driveway, Rex Homes submitted revised plans for a Planned District on the site, with 8 smaller single-family houses with one shared driveway off Niles Boulevard, and a common open space on the corner.

 

As with the previous proposal, many residents said that traffic was already bad in that area and adding any new houses would make it worse and would contribute to an unsafe situation. Others felt that changing the open space designation was not justified and the proposed development did not offer enough significant benefits to the city. The council agreed with the residents and declined to consider the revised GPA request.

 

Niles Gateway Revised

The latest Niles Gateway proposal to build 75 two-story residential units at the southeast end of town, where Niles Boulevard curves under the railroad tracks, has been slightly revised to add more electric vehicle charging stations. The drawings also note that the developer has offered to install full bike lane street markings and signs on Niles Boulevard from Vallejo Street through the downtown area to Rancho Arroyo Parkway. In recent months, these street markings have been the source of public outcry in Niles, and some residents claim the markings are unattractive, unwanted, and confusing.

 

The site layout of straight rows of attached townhouses with garages facing garages has not been changed. Neither has the vehicular access or the minimal interior guest parking.

 

The revised proposal is tentatively scheduled to be heard by the Historical Architecture Review Board in April. Residents may send comments about the latest Niles Gateway plans to city staff planner David Wage at dwage@fremont.gov.

 

Louie Ranch PRP

The Fay Louie family owns much of the property in the hills above Mission Boulevard between the Union City boundary and Niles Canyon. The civil engineering firm of MacKay & Somps has submitted an application for a Preliminary Review Procedure (PRP) for the city to evaluate initial plans to build 53 attached townhouses on about five of those acres located at 37718 Mission.

 

The Hillside Residential density for the location of the townhouses is 2.3 dwelling units per acre. The Open Space density for the Louie land above the Toe of the Hill is one dwelling unit per 20 acres. The PRP plans show a density transfer of 41 units from the Open Space land added to the 12 units allowed for the Hillside Residential parcel in order to build a total of 53 units.

 

A density transfer of Open Space above the Toe of the Hill is very complicated. In order to be granted such a transfer, the developer must prove first that it is feasible to design a subdivision on the land in the hills in accordance with Measure T minimum lot standards. Then they must prove that each of those subdivision lots would be able to support a dwelling unit that complies with Fremont Municipal Code. If such a plan was approved by the City Council at a later date, the Open Space land would need an easement placed on it for no further development.

 

The PRP townhouse plans show eight 4-plexes, three 6-plexes and one 3-plex. They would be grouped around a curved street off Mission that would end in a cul-de-sac. The question of whether attached townhouses would be permitted in that location will be reviewed.

 

It is important to remember that a Preliminary Review Procedure really is just a preliminary review. The Planning Department and several other Fremont departments carefully examine the submitted PRP plans and write up a PRP Report giving feedback to the applicant as to the feasibility of the project’s approval by the city.

To view the proposal plans or to make comments, contact the city staff planner Hang Zhou at hzhou@fremont.gov

 

For the latest updates to Niles housing news, visit www.ShapeOurFremont.com.

 

 

Skunk Scents

By Pat Kite

 

Mr. Skunk sprayed a neighbor’s car. Since this is courting season, perhaps Skunk thought the grey SUV was a rival. “He might be big,” surmised Skunk, “but I will show him who is the boss!” Spritz!

 

Getting super stink out of a car is an arduous and expensive task. David Anderson, former director of the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Newark, just loved skunks. He used to take them home for special care. One day a skunk objected to being transported. Spritz! David eventually had to replace the car.

 

Skunk spray is an oily liquid produced by glands underneath the skunk’s tail. A skunk’s spray can go almost 10 feet and the skunk can spray up to six times in succession. The aroma permeates clothes, skin, and fur. A skunk’s odor will last 14-21 days if left untreated. And the longer you wait to wash it off, the harder it is to get rid of it. Aside from its skunk protective purpose, the fumes are a romantic lure for a mate. Mr. Skunk makes attractive little spritzes as he moseys along in the evening. I had a skunk who would wander by my bedroom window. Spritz! Now I leave an outside light on. So far, it has helped.

 

What else can you do? Open the windows. Run fans to get air moving. Change your furnace filters. Spray air deodorizers. Place bowls of vinegar around the house. Should you or doggie get sprayed, this solution changes the odorous thiols into odorless acids, thereby chemically neutralizing the skunk odor. The formula is: 1 quart of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide (fresh bottle), 1/4 cup of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), and 1-2 teaspoons of liquid dish soap.

 

For story lovers, this is a Native American Winnebago tale about skunk origin. Once upon a time, a girl child was born with pure white hair. She became very beautiful. Many men came courting, but the girl preferred to look at her reflection in pond waters. She loved the smell of flowers and would rub perfumed petals on her skin. One day a strange-looking man came courting. She said you are too ugly for me. But the man was Turtle, one of the Great Spirits. Annoyed, he cast a spell. The pretty girl became smaller and smaller. Black hair covered her body, except for a furry white stripe down her back. The odor of flowers changed to the odor of stink. And our wandering skunks began. The Cherokee ascribed medicine powers to skunks and believed that a skunk’s odor can ward off disease, so during times of plague, dead skunks were sometimes hung over people’s doorways.

 

 

Summer Camps 2020

 

Organizations around the Bay Area are gearing up for this year’s summer camps! There are programs for a wide range of interests, from science to coding, to music, to horseback riding. A few already open for registration are listed below:

 

Summer Ensemble Program

Fremont Youth Symphony Orchestra

June 24 – 28, July 8 – 12

(Two weeklong sessions)

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Students participate in one of three ensembles and learn about music genres and theory.

Apply online at https://fremontyouthsymphony.org.

 

Explorers Camp

Chabot Space and Science Center

Ages 6-11

June 15 – July 24

One-week repeating program

9:15 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Investigate the Earth, outer space, and beyond through hands-on science, art, and play.

Registration is now open! Register online at https://chabotspace.org. (Scholarships are also available.)

 

Summer ZooCamp

Oakland Zoo

Grades K-12

June 22 – August 14

Weeklong sessions; signup for multiple sessions OK

Half-day: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Full-day: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Zoo tours, animal close-ups, crafts, games, science projects, and behind-the-scenes experiences.

Register at https://www.oaklandzoo.org. Member registration starts March 10, non-members March 17.

 

Code For Fun

Ages 5-15

June 15 – August 7

Weeklong sessions

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

(Schedules vary according to level; check the website.)

Programming with Scratch, app development, web design, intro to Python and more!

Registration is open at https://www.codeforfun.com/fremontsummer2020.

 

Horse Camp

Chaparelle Ranch Milpitas

Ages 6-14

June 8 – August 21

(Weeklong sessions, drop-in available)

9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

One-hour riding session, plus lessons in horse grooming and care, history of the horse, and horse anatomy. Also games and crafts!

Registration now open at https://www.chaparralcorporation.com.

 

 

Twitter preps ephemeral tweets, starts testing in Brazil

By Barbara Ortutay

AP Technology Writer

 

SAN FRANCISCO (AP), Mar 04 – Twitter is starting to test tweets that disappear after 24 hours, although initially only in Brazil.

 

The company says the ephemeral tweets, which it calls “fleets” because of their fleeting nature, are designed to allay the concerns of new users who might be turned off by the public and permanent nature of normal tweets.

 

Fleets can't be retweeted and they won't have “likes.” People can respond to them, but the replies show up as direct messages to the original tweeter, not as a public response, turning any back-and-forth into a private conversation instead of a public discussion.

 

Despite having high-profile users such as President Donald Trump, Twitter has lagged behind other tech powerhouses like Facebook and Google in terms of user growth and advertising revenue. Twitter is hoping that by offering disappearing tweets, people will be more likely to share casual, everyday thoughts – and to do so more often.

 

The new feature is reminiscent of Instagram and Facebook “stories” and Snapchat's snaps, which let users post short-lived photos and messages. Such features are increasingly popular with social-media users looking for smaller groups and more private chats.

 

But Twitter often serves a different function than Instagram or Facebook, operating not only as a basis for conversation but as a platform for politicians and other public figures. Disappearing tweets could make it harder to hold such people accountable, monitor their posts and fact-check them.

 

Social media services often test new features in smaller markets before bringing them to the U.S. and elsewhere – if they do so at all.

 

Twitter said it may bring fleets to other countries depending on how the Brazil test goes. In its blog post Wednesday, Twitter said it will be looking into how the new feature “changes the way you interact and if it allows you to share what you're thinking more comfortably.“

 

 

UC, Berkeley gets $252M donation for data center

AP Wire Service

 

BERKELEY, Calif. (AP), Mar 03 – The University of California, Berkeley has received a $252 million donation – its largest-ever single gift – to start construction of a new building for students and faculty studying computing and data science.

 

The gift, made anonymously, will allow the university to start building the Data Hub on the north side of campus, the San Francisco Chronicle reported Monday.

 

Another $300 million in donations will be needed to complete the building, which will house the Division of Computing, Data Science, and Society, which teaches an increasing number of students across a variety of majors. More than 6,000 of the university's 31,000 undergraduate students take data science classes each year.

 

The Data Hub will house classrooms and offices and may include robotics and artificial intelligence laboratories, research centers, public gathering areas, and a large auditorium.

 

The donation comes as the university kicks off an ambitious effort to raise $6 billion by the end of 2023. University officials say it's one of the biggest fundraising efforts by any public university and is needed to maintain the campus' top academic rating and programs as state support shrinks to 14% of its budget.

 

 

Union City Police Log

Submitted by Lt. Matias Pardo, Union City PD

 

Sunday, February 16

• At 5:48 a.m. officers responded to a report about a fight at the Union Landing Shopping Center where a waitress at the IHOP restaurant was reportedly assaulted by two intoxicated people and suffered injuries to her face when a ceramic mug was thrown at her. Three suspects attempted to flee the area in a vehicle with a fourth person inside. Officers quickly stopped the vehicle after it left the parking lot. All four occupants inside the car were identified as being involved in the assault and were arrested. The suspects were identified by police as Benjamin Marroquin, 18; Emily Pazarin Larios, 18; Hayley Garcia, 18; and Tiara Francine Banford, 21. All face various charges.

 

• At 10:44 p.m. Officer DeJong made a traffic stop on a vehicle with two people inside on the 32000 block of Gemini Drive. A vehicle search turned up numerous identification and credit cards and almost a half-pound of suspected methamphetamine. Both suspects, identified by police as Vivian Awwad, 34, and Manuel Masana, 36 were arrested. Awwad faces various charges related to methamphetamine while Masana was taken into custody on an outstanding felony warrant.