5-26-20 Articles

Donor gives employees at hospital $1 million for bonuses

By Martha Mendoza

Associated Press

 

SANTA CRUZ, Calif. (AP), May 04 – Around the country, there's a lot of gratitude for medical providers these days, and in Santa Cruz, California, a recent anonymous note to the local hospital was no exception.

 

“Thank you for standing up (and staying up!) to care for our community,” it said. “This humankindness is what makes you heroic.”

 

It was the donation that came with that note – $1 million – that has hospital employees cheering. The gift was designated entirely for employees – nurses, cleaning staff, lab techs, medical records, even mailroom staff and security guards who have worked at Dominican Hospital for at least a year are getting a bonus check. Full-time staff get $800, part-timers receive $600.

 

Hospital president Dr. Nanette Mickiewicz said the donation is a testament to their employee's clinical excellence and their tireless dedication.

 

After weeks of hard work, nursing supervisor Amy Loudon said she was amazed at the generosity of a stranger, and especially appreciative it's being shared with all employees this week.

 

“There are so many people who keep the hospital running. Nurses and doctors are getting the praise, but we couldn't do it without the staff who clean the floors, deliver supplies, fix machines, everything. It's a team, and I'm glad the whole team is getting a thank you,” she said.

 

As for her own bonus?

 

“I'm definitely going to spoil myself a little bit,” she said.

 

Which is probably why the anonymous $1 million do-gooder made the donation.

 

 

Alameda County Fire Department Log

Submitted by ACFD

 

Monday, May 18

• At around 10:00 p.m. firefighters responded to a residential fire that had spread into the home’s attic at Lawrence and Joseph Drives in Castro Valley. Crews quickly extinguished the blaze and there were no injuries, but six people from the home were displaced and the Red Cross was notified.

 

 

Classified employees honored by county education office

Submitted by Brian Killgore

 

During a recent ceremony in recognition of Classified School Employee Week, officials from the Alameda County Office of Education (ACOE) named six employees as winners of the 2020 Alameda County Classified Employees of the Year.

 

Announced May 19, the winners represent six categories designated by the California Department of Education (CDE). A panel of AOCE judges also selected an honoree in each category to be considered for recognition by the CDE as one of the State Classified Employees of the Year.

 

This year’s winners are:

• Sandra Green, Office and Technical; Fremont Unified School District
• Vince Sly, Maintenance, Operations and Facilities; Castro Valley Unified School District
• Leticia Moreno, Para-Educator, and Instructional Assistance; Castro Valley Unified School District
• Jacqueline Simon, Support Services and Security; Oakland Unified School District
• William Taylor, Jr., Transportation; Oakland Unified School District
• Michelle Partridge, Child Nutrition; Dublin Unified School District

 

In a statement announcing the winners, ACOE officials said that all nominees and classified school employees are greatly appreciated for their work, care and dedication to students, families, and their communities. Their contributions, particularly during this challenging time, have been critical to the districts’ ability to continue serving students and families.

 

 

Alameda County Sheriff’s Office

Submitted by Tya M. Modeste

 

Friday, May 15

• At about 11:30 a.m. deputies went to the Valley Inn motel on Foothill Boulevard in Castro Valley to assist officers from the Oakland Police Department in apprehending a murder suspect reportedly hiding in one of the motel rooms. A perimeter was set around the motel while authorities talked with the suspect by telephone trying to get him to surrender.

 

The standoff continued until about 4:30 p.m. when deputies saw the suspect exit the room with a shirt covering his nose and mouth and a black, semi-automatic handgun pointed at them. The suspect fired at least one round at deputies who returned fire, striking him several times and killing him. Local media identified the suspect as Thac Pham, 42 of Oakland. An investigation by the Oakland Police Department is ongoing.

 

 

BART Police Log

Submitted by Les Mensinger and BART PD

 

Friday, May 16

• At 2:29 p.m. a man identified by police as Richard Bueno, 38, of Hayward was arrested at Union City station on a no bail warrant and booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

Sunday, May 17

• A man identified by police as Humberto Garcia, 28, was arrested at San Leandro station on suspicion of burglary and probation violation. He was issued a prohibition order and booked into jail.

 

 

California Arts Council Increases Support of East Bay Choir

Submitted by Shirley Gilbert

 

Mission Peak Chamber Singers (MPCS) and its sister choir East Bay People’s Choir (EBPC) received a second “local impact” grant this year from the California Arts Council of $17,618, almost double the amount of the $9,640 they were awarded in 2019.

 

The Council, a state agency that supports local arts, culture and creative expression, singled out the East Bay People’s Choir as a choral group that “creates access without barriers to choral singing for all ages and backgrounds in a welcoming, enthusiastic, healthful and inclusive background.”

 

Ofer dal Lal, artistic director overseeing both choirs, believes that the California Arts Council saw the potential of the East Bay People’s Choir. “I think our choirs proved ourselves,” he said. “Our community involvement and outreach are fulfilling a deep need. These are hard times for choirs and for us all and it’s important that we figure out how to keep going and keep fulfilling that need for connection and creativity. The grant will help us do that.”

 

Sid Quinsaat, associate director of the East Bay People’s Choir, is grateful for the grant and the Council’s generous vote of confidence, especially at this time. “Our choir is really unique,” Quinsaat said, “one that accepts anyone who wants to sing. This is such a rare thing and it’s so important for our community that we can continue to create that environment in the tough times ahead.”

 

One of the stipulations of the grant is that the choir must match the amount of the award in donations. Lisa Lahowe, Mission Peak Chamber Singers member who wrote the grant with a team, believes that despite coronavirus difficulties, the choir will be able to meet the match requirement. “We have a dedicated audience and fan base and I’m confident we can raise the needed funds. It’s an exciting challenge.”

 

The East Bay People’s Choir has changed lives, and created a sense of community that goes far beyond singing.

 

Cathy Berry has been a member since the choir began in September 2018. “The choir,” she said, “is literally the highlight of my week. It brings me great joy. I love the people and I’m especially proud of the fact that we have special needs folks.” The grant, she believes, will allow the choir to reach out to the East Bay community. “We’re all looking for things that bring us joy,” she said, “especially in these difficult days.”

 

Elaine Cloverwell was also in EBPC from the beginning. She appreciated the strong family feeling among singers. “We felt we were part of a family, and like a family we had rights and responsibilities.” Cloverwell joined at a time when she wanted to get back into singing after losing her voice, but didn’t feel up to audition caliber. She read about the East Bay People’s Choir and realized what a great fit it was for her. “That first night,” she said, “my heart sang, and it’s been singing ever since.”

 

During quarantine, the choirs can’t meet in person every week. But all the singers wanted to continue together somehow. Leader Ofer dal Lal and choirmaster Sid Quinsaat came up with the idea of a virtual sing-along. Now every Tuesday, through the technology of Zoom, both choirs gather together online and join Quinsaat as he plays the piano and sings popular songs suggested by members and friends. Quinsaat is also rehearsing two songs that the East Bay People’s Choir will sing at a future concert.

 

Dal Lal is there to act like a radio show host. He asks questions and welcomes participants to share how they’re coping now and pass along survival tips. “What I’m trying to do is to continue that sense of community we get when we’re together in person,” said dal Lal.

 

Dal Lal is creating a virtual concert after the two choirs’ May concert was canceled due to coronavirus. The songs they were rehearsing centered around homelessness. “We so much wanted the project to go forward,” said dal Lal, “so we sent out an appeal to a great many singers and over 100 answered the call, some outside California and even the U.S.” Via Zoom, the group practices three songs, and singers record and submit their individual parts. Dal Lal has hired a video editor to put the recordings together, and the concert will play out on You Tube. It’s entitled: “With a Roof Over Our Heads.”

 

Choirs will have to reinvent themselves in the age of the coronavirus. Dal Lal is hopeful that, come fall, he will be able to create a safe way the choirs can meet once again. “There is so much creativity around us as we work to reinvent ourselves. The virtual concert is one idea. There will be many more. I believe we’re going into an exciting future in our next season.”

 

 

Fall Ballot Measures to Fund COVID-19, Climate & Health Emergencies

Submitted by Carol Drake

 

Some cities in California are considering a November ballot measure to increase the utility tax on large commercial natural gas users that would assist cities facing COVID-19 financial problems, and climate and health emergencies, according to statewide climate coalition today.

 

The Health and Climate Resilience Tax Credit Measure “will fund programs and services for health emergencies, reduce greenhouse gas emissions by incentivizing large gas users to reduce energy consumption, save money on energy costs over time, and fund critical climate action initiatives that empower residents and businesses to participate in money-saving, carbon reducing practices,” said the SF Bay Area Climate Restoration Circle.

 

Cities that include, but not limited to, Richmond, Berkeley, San Francisco, Oakland and Los Angeles are studying the coordinated placement of local city measures on the November 2020 ballot.

 

The coalition admits it needs to hustle to get cities to sign on by no later than June 30 to make deadlines for the November elections in each of the cities participating.

 

Calling it an “exciting new funding opportunity for cities to generate funds for communities to respond to dual climate and health emergencies facing every city,” the coalition said “a number of cities are considering” the measure.

 

Local legislation would involve cities raising the local utility tax by two to five percent on only large businesses, who already get a break by paying much cheaper wholesale rates, not retail rates paid by residential users. Funds generated would be a “new funding opportunity” to “deal with COVID-19 and climate emergencies.”

 

Similar plans have met with great success, including Boulder, CO, which generated $17.3 million, avoided 750,000 cumulative metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions and reduced GHG emissions 16 percent from 2005 levels. Portland, OR raised $60 million for Green New Deal Energy initiatives.

 

The coalition argues that cities adopting this plan would fund climate solutions, fund PPE, testing and contract tracing in communities; draw down a trillion tons of CO2 by 2035, which would fulfill the Paris Accord and implement local climate emergency plans; create new jobs in solar and insulation installation, building efficiency and carbon sequestration to useful products; and lower utility cost for working families.

 

Because cities already have that existing tax on natural gas and electricity that collects about $1.5 billion yearly, by increasing the tax on large users only, most cities would raise millions of dollars a year and “incentivize conversion to electrical appliances and vehicles,” said the coalition.

 

Climate Goals would include reduce greenhouse gas emissions and sequester CO2, helping residents and businesses implement energy efficiency improvements at home and at work, and significantly increase the number of property owners and tenants investing in, and benefiting from, energy efficiency programs.

 

Read more about the Climate Tax Ballot here: https://sfbaycrc.org/health-covid-19-climatetaxballot/

 

 

Curbside pickup can begin Friday at retailers including southland mall

Submitted by Hayward Chamber of Commerce

 

Alameda County joined the rest of the Bay Area Monday in moving to phase two of the state’s reopening guidelines when the health officer announced that curbside retail pickup could begin Friday, May 22.

 

Southland Mall GM Todd Falduti reported to the Hayward Chamber of Commerce that while the mall interior will not yet be accessible, several stores said they could be ready for curbside retail pickup by that date.

 

“It’s a step in the right direction,” he said. After working with mall retailers on the new regulations, Falduti’s marketing team expects to be able to have messages on the mall website, on its electronic marquee, and to the chamber for release, detailing which stores will be open and the curbside pick-up process.

 

The Southland Mall team has already begun work on social distancing measures for when the entire facility can be accessed by the public, which is not permitted in this new order. Signage will keep patrons six feet apart and the food court has been re-arranged so diners will sit at the appropriate distance from each other.

 

A Cinemark spokesperson told the chamber that the theater complexes at the mall and in downtown Hayward may not open until July 1, and then would probably show popular features such as Disney films until first-run movies are scheduled in August.

 

The updated directive was issued Monday by public health officers in Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco and Santa Clara counties and the city of Berkeley. It puts those jurisdictions in the second of four phases of the state’s recovery plan. 

 

In addition to curbside pickup, businesses connected to retailers with manufacturing, logistics and warehousing may also open. However, stores are prohibited from moving their products outside for display or sale, and customers must order and pay for products online or over the phone. The regulations only apply to retail stores with an adjacent sidewalk or pedestrian walkway, street or parking lot.

 

View the list of open stores at Southland here: https://www.southlandmall.com/en.html.

 

 

SB 908 bill to require licensing of debt collectors

Submitted by Jeff Barbosa

 

California Senate Banking and Financial Institutions Committee has approved Senate Bill 908, authored by Senator Bob Wieckowski (D-Fremont), to require debt collectors and buyers to obtain a license to collect on debts in the state.

 

SB 908 calls for the state Department of Business Oversight (DBO) to license and regulate the industry. It would field complaints from borrowers and enforce violations. Consumers would have a single location to see what companies are licensed, what companies are operating without a license, and any actions taken against a licensed company including suspension or revocation.

 

“With consumer debt at a record high and the pandemic sending our economy into a freefall, California families struggling to pay their bills need the added protection that SB908 would provide,” said Wieckowski. “Under current law, people are often left to defend themselves against unscrupulous collectors who prey on their lack of understanding of consumer law. By having a state agency investigate abuses, people can put an end to the threats, harassment and real financial damage debt collectors can cause.”

 

 

Distance Learning: a new ball game for schools

By Jui Sadekar

 

Local school districts have transitioned to remote classwork for the remainder of the school year according to guidelines from the California Department of Education. When the growing coronavirus pandemic compelled schools to halt in-person classes in March, some faculty were caught off guard, while others had anticipated going virtual.

 

Teachers are now using Zoom, Google Classroom, or other learning platforms to conduct classes. Some instructors are also recording their lessons online, so they are available for students who are ill or miss a class. With no in-person teaching, one wonders: How are teachers keeping students involved and tracking their participation?

 

“Distance learning is not just technology-based. It is the way it is being taught,” says Ingrid Roberson, chief of learning & accountability services, Alameda County of Education. “You can’t have a one-size-fits-all approach to what [local] districts’ learning plans are going to look like. However, the state did waive the instructional minutes requirements for this particular situation.”

 

Hayward Unified School District is following a Distance Learning Plan where teachers include weekly lesson plans. Dionicia Ramos Ledesma, director of public information & governmental relations, adds that this plan gives parameters to teachers about basic expectations. “The lessons add up to the agreed upon hours of instruction outlined in the plan. There is a focus on student participation. If there is little or no participation, teachers and site support teams contact students’ families to figure out a plan,” she states.

 

Constant communication is the key to remote learning, feels Cheryl Jordan, superintendent, Milpitas Unified School District. “We are focusing a lot on interaction and social-emotional learning. We are trying to keep parents involved as true partners in learning. As we talk about parent and family engagement, this is a time when we can say parents are the first teachers of their kids.”

 

Raúl M. Zamora, Ed.D., acting superintendent, Fremont Unified School District, shares a similar thought. “The situation is not ideal, but we are going to support our students and staff to have the best learning opportunity. If there is lack of instruction or communication, we encourage parents to reach out to the teachers.”

 

One of the challenges in distance learning is to teach “hands-on” classes. According to Ramos, teachers are being creative in teaching practical classes, including physical education (PE). “They are using Zoom and other online platforms…to visually guide students. Sometimes, they ask students to photograph their work and submit via Google Classroom or submit their own video to allow teachers to review. For PE, teachers put together routines that they want students to follow a certain number of days per week. They may even perform the routine together via Zoom.”

 

Highlighting the importance of PE, Leticia Salinas, acting superintendent, Newark Unified School District, says, “Research shows that safe physical activity supports balanced mental health for students during the pandemic. Activities such as cardio and scavenger hunts (as assigned by teachers) can occur safely at home.”

 

To ensure that students get the most out of their online classes, Milpitas Unified takes an innovative approach. Milpitas Unified follows a similar model to ensure that students get the most out of their online creative classes. Jordan shares an example of how a teacher had pizza boxes donated from Pizza My Heart and created a kit for math and science projects, as well as writing, art, and reading. “She used the concepts, literature, and examples that students are learning in class. The kits were provided at the school sites for parents to pick up.”

 

Jordan reiterates that the district is working hard to ensure that students have the necessary raw materials for the projects. “We have pickup and drop-off at almost all our schools for hands-on material. Also, teachers are using materials that students might find in their home.”

 

It is not always possible, though, to simulate classroom conditions virtually. The current situation has forced educators and learners alike to become more creative, though in some cases, there is no substitute for what was left behind when their schools closed.

 

John Thompson, superintendent, New Haven Unified School District, says, “If you’re taking a ceramics class [online], obviously it’s difficult to perform that hands-on, unless you had your own kiln, which mostly nobody does. So, for classes like that students are learning the theory and background but missing the real experience…Same goes for automotive classes, which switched to online training modules. You can’t work on a brake system virtually.”

 

With classes gone remote, the need for technology increased. Schools have been able to identify students who do not have devices or internet connectivity and provide them with Chromebooks and Wi-Fi hotspots. Parents are also asked to contact their respective school districts in case of connectivity issues.

 

“[Hayward Unified] is aware that conditions may not be ideal at home…So, we are trying to account for the fact that some students may not be able to participate like others,” says Ramos. She adds that parents submit a survey, and the staff contacts students who are not participating. “We came to know that there are students who don’t have devices or have a device but have to share with other siblings. We did start handing out Chromebooks early on and are still providing [them].”

 

Jordan has a similar opinion, “We know there are some students who are not engaging like others because their circumstances are not necessarily equitable with others. Those students will be considered first for the MUSD Summer Bridge program.”

 

“We suspected,” she believes, “that we would be going into some sort of shelter-in-place. Our teachers had already started surveys of students who needed equipment at home. We were able to get up 1,300 Chromebooks in the first few days. And then over the next course, we handed out around 3,000 Chromebooks through drive-thru.”

 

On Wi-Fi hotspots, Ramos says, “We had challenges with internet connectivity as probably there are families not living in permanent homes or living in transitional homes with no internet. We purchased 400 hotspots…We are tracking students’ attendance daily and know if a student hasn’t participated for a long time. Our staff is reaching out to families to identify the problem, and if it is internet connectivity then adding them to the list to receive hotspots. We also have additional 200 hotspots coming in and more if needed.”

 

Thinking outside the box for virtual classes and ensuring availability of technology are not the only challenges for schools. Issuing grades for the rest of the semester is another task. Stay tuned to learn more in next week’s edition.

 

 

Sheltering in an unsafe place

By Stephanie Gertsch

Photos courtesy of SAVE

 

For months we’ve been told to “shelter in place” – stay in our homes and restrict contact with the outside world – to protect ourselves and others during the ongoing pandemic. However, to survivors of domestic violence, their homes are not places of safety and wellbeing. Now they are cut off from resources and networks in a high-stress time.

 

“It’s important to understand that joblessness does not cause domestic violence. The stress of a pandemic does not cause domestic violence,” says Kate Hart, Director of Programs at SAVE in Fremont. “But it can exacerbate a situation in which violence is already happening.” SAVE (Safe Alternatives to Violent Situations) helps survivors through a variety of services such as a hotline, counseling, shelter, and long-term housing.

 

Many survivors still live with their abuser, whether a partner or family member. Says Hart, “Survivors are good at seeing when things are escalating and when maybe it’s a good time to go hang out at mom’s house for the weekend or a couple of hours.” Even a job can be a means of escape. However, now many workers are furloughed and discouraged from seeing people outside of their household, leaving survivors with fewer ways to de-escalate.

 

Liz Varela is Executive Director of Building Futures, a San Leandro-based nonprofit that advocates for both the homeless and DV survivors. She says it’s critical to stay aware of survivors during shelter in place. “Speaking up for survivors of domestic violence is really important because they’re invisible to us right now. We know it’s happening, we know they’re there, but they’re invisible.”

 

When the state and counties issued the shelter in place order in mid-March, organizations like SAVE and Building Futures had to adapt practically overnight. “I am amazingly proud of our staff and how quickly we were able to move to remote services,” Hart says. “We provide crisis services, so we are used to moving quickly, thinking on our feet, pulling together resources on a shoestring [budget], and making things happen. When the order came down, we were able to set up remote operations for our empowerment center within a couple of days.”

 

The office phone was rerouted to someone working from home. Case managers were already working with clients online, and counseling groups switched to Zoom. As of May, about 75 percent of their services are remote. Obviously, the shelter is one service that can’t go online. Right now, it is minimally staffed and complying with CDC cleaning recommendations.

 

One service everyone misses is the Empowerment Center, where clients could drop in to chat, use the kitchen or computers, or pick up personal care items. Now SAVE is finding ways to replicate that sense of community online. Project Light, a support group for people who have experienced abuse in the past, is now meeting via Zoom. Hart says, “Every week, when we do our check in, those women are like ‘I’m so glad I have this. It’s the highlight of my week to get together with you guys!’”

 

SAVE has also ramped up outreach services through PSAs on their Facebook page, with information geared toward friends as well as to survivors themselves. For friends of survivors there are no magic words or formulas. The most important thing is to show that you are there for them, research what resources are available, and let the survivor make their own decisions about their wellbeing.

 

People wondering if their situation “counts” as abuse or domestic violence should trust their intuition. “If your gut feeling is telling you that this person that you’re with is not safe or is causing you harm, listen to that,” advises Hart. “At the center of all domestic violence situations is power and control. Domestic violence itself is one partner trying to exert power and control over the other person.”

 

While SAVE has temporary housing and employment programs, leaving the abuser is not a requirement or expectation for their clients. “The goal is always to move the person toward safety, whatever that looks like for that person,” says Hart. “We want every phone call, every interaction to end with that survivor being a little more safe than they were when they called us.” Additionally, their services are for anyone who identifies as a survivor, even if the abuse happened years ago.

 

SAVE and Building Futures both expect their DV advocacy to ramp up even as the pandemic slows down. Everyone is piecing their life back together, and survivors are starting this process at a disadvantage because they already lack resources and social networks. As part of the cycle of control, abusers discourage their victims from holding employment and undermine their relationships (or seek out people who have fewer connections to begin with).

 

“Most of us have at least a friend or a family member who is a source of emotional or even practical support,” says Hart. She recalls how her mother pitched in with free daycare after the birth of her son. “A lot of the folks we work with don’t have those networks. They’re not in the PTA. They’re not part of a neighborhood where the moms help each other out. They may not have good family ties anymore.”

 

Liz Varela of Building Futures expects more people to reach out to services when shelter-in-place ends, and she hopes local governments will respond with support. “The state and the county have done an incredible job with homelessness. We need to see the same response when it comes to domestic violence.”

 

During the challenge of COVID-19, programs like SAVE and Building Futures have developed new outreach strategies. Hart was surprised at the enthusiastic response to Zoom support groups, as she saw not only current clients transition, but new clients sign up for the first time. “We’re hopeful that we can come out of this with some new and different ideas for ways we can do things,” says Hart. “We probably won’t stop having virtual groups, because we can tap into a whole population of folks who might’ve had a hard time getting to us.”

 

Hart is especially thankful for the Facebook PSAs, saying, “I’m so proud of how the staff spoke. I kept thinking, ‘I can’t reach the probably 10,000 survivors who might need us, but I can reach 10,000 people and those people could continue to post those messages.’”

 

Let’s make supporting survivors go viral.

 

Building Futures

1-866-A-WAY-OUT

https://bfwc.org/

 

SAVE

510-794-6055

https://save-dv.org

 

 

Park It

By Ned MacKay

 

Because of coronavirus, all visitor centers are closed, and in-person nature education programs are cancelled in the East Bay Regional Parks. However, district naturalists have been working hard just the same, producing dozens of educational and entertaining videos. The videos cover the spectrum of natural history topics: ground squirrels, tarantulas, bats, white-tailed kites, geology, and flower dissection, to name a few.

 

You can also download an app for virtual reality park experiences. Additionally, “Songs and Stories” is a series designed for children. For details, visit www.ebparks.org/DigitalLearning; or you can click on “Activities” at the top of the home page, then click again on “Digital Learning.”

 

Of course, people are still welcome to visit the actual parklands, keeping in mind the required precautions. For up-to-date information on what is available, click on “COVID-19 Park & Trail Updates” at the top of the home page at www.ebparks.org.

 

As of this writing, more than 90 percent of the regional parks and trails remain open. The four parks that are completely closed through Sunday, May 31 are Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont, Bay Point Regional Shoreline in Pittsburg (for construction), Castle Rock Recreation Area in Walnut Creek, and Point Isabel Regional Shoreline in Richmond.

 

At the request of the city of Fremont, Stanford Avenue Staging Area of Mission Peak Regional Preserve remains closed through Sunday, May 31. You can still access the preserve from a parking lot at nearby Ohlone College. Although Castle Rock is closed, you can still access Diablo Foothills Regional Park from the Orchard Staging Area at the end of Castle Rock Road past Northgate High School.

 

At Del Valle Regional Park south of Livermore, the main entrance on Del Valle Road is closed at the intersection with Mendenhall Road. No walk-in access is available. However, the staging area at the end of Arroyo Road is open, and you can explore the park as far as Badger Cove.

 

Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley is open, as is the golf course, but all other attractions in the park are closed, including the Regional Parks Botanic Garden. All park district swim areas are closed, but the district’s aquatic staff is working to be prepared for eventual opening, possibly in July.

 

 

Some safety reminders:

• So far, the stay-at-home order is still in effect, so only visit parklands near you.
• Download a park map before going.
• Bring your own water and hand sanitizer. Many toilets are now open, but drinking fountains are still closed.
• Dogs must always be on leash, everywhere in the parks.
• Available activities are walking, hiking, biking, horseback riding, or fishing. No swimming, boating, or picnicking.
• Plan to go with only immediate household members. No gatherings or meet-up groups.
• Maintain “social distance” of six feet from other groups.
• Bring a cloth face covering/mask, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control. Use it if social distancing becomes impossible.
• On the regional trails, share the road. Bicyclists should alert people by bell or voice when overtaking from behind. Pedestrians should leave adequate space so faster traffic can pass on the left.
• Running or bicycling causes people to expel airborne particles more forcefully. Runners and cyclists must take extra measures to avoid exposing others to airborne particles by keeping greater than six feet of distance and wearing face masks when possible.

 

 

Business Pulse Check – Fremont Botanicals

By Madhvika Singh

Photos courtesy of Mary Nelson

 

Social distancing, shelter-in-place and quarantine used to be things we rarely heard of, and only in extreme emergencies, but now they seem to have become the norm. They have affected our social fabric and our livelihoods and have severely impacted the financial wellbeing of our local businesses and their employees. We at Tri-City Voice have featured many local businesses over time, and we reached out to some of them to share their perspective on how they have been affected and how they are coping with the new reality of COVID-19.

 

This is part of an ongoing series with a new business or businesses featured each week, including both those that have appeared in the paper before and those who are appearing for the first time.

 

Fremont Botanicals

The current shelter-in-place restrictions have opened our eyes to the need for alternate plans in uncertain times. For many, alternative health and wellness has come to their rescue when mainstream medicine has either not sufficiently relieved them of their symptoms or not worked for them at all. Fremont Botanicals offers one option. We at Tri-City Voice reached out to Fremont Botanicals and spoke to Mary Nelson about the products they offer and how COVID-19 has impacted their business.

 

Fremont Botanicals is a locally owned and operated Cannabidiol (CBD) retail store, an extension of Haller’s Pharmacies in Fremont and Gilroy. Fremont Botanicals’ focus is on helping their clients with pain, sleep and anxiety issues which may respond to non-intoxicating CBD. “We see customers from young adults to seniors, athletes and many in between for various conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, knee and muscle pain, inflammation, anxiety, and sleep disorders,” says Nelson. They offer a variety of wellness options such as topicals, edibles, gels, oils and creams, and free consultations around the selection of the appropriate products based on individual needs.

 

The store’s grand opening in November last year was followed by a chocolate tasting event in February to celebrate Valentine’s Day and showcase the various chocolate CBD products. The event at the store shared CBD educational information and hosted chocolate tastings rating the aroma, flavor, texture and finish of samples.

 

With the shelter-in-place restrictions, they have had to suddenly modify their operations. The physical retail store is closed but all items are available through their online store. Products for pets can also be found in the online selection and online customer consultations for a personal touch of education about products and guidance. “We have adapted using email, live chat and Instagram to connect with our customers”, says Nelson. Services such as therapeutic massage have been put on hold due to the current restrictions but plan to bring it back as soon as the COVID-19 situation resolves.

 

The staff at Fremont Botanicals is trained and educated in helping clients understand how to effectively use CBD products as part of a healthy lifestyle. So that the consumer can make an informed decision, Fremont Botanicals can access pharmacists at the Haller’s pharmacy to discuss any contraindications or interactions.

 

“While the current restrictions related to COVID-19 have definitely put a damper on the business, tackling the situation and prepping for what’s ahead of us is the way to go,” says Nelson. “Inhale the future, and exhale the past” is a quote that Nelson tries to live by. We at TCV wish Fremont Botanicals success in their attempts to keep their business going strong in these tough times!

 

Fremont Botanicals

37317 Fremont Blvd., Fremont

(510) 797-2774

fremont.cbd@gmail.com

https://fremontbotanicals.com

Connect with Fremont Botanicals:

Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter

 

Through the business pulse series our intent at TCV is to lend a platform to local businesses share their stories. In these trying times let's hope we can develop a shared bond and come out at the other end stronger as a community to deal with challenges that future might have in store for us.

 

City of Fremont budget is wildly optimistic

 

The proposed budget for the city of Fremont is wildly optimistic, because it minimizes the fiscal impact of the pandemic. On the one hand, the city says there’s “no consensus on economic trajectory; depth of economic contraction; rate and extent of recovery.” On the other hand, the city forecasts that “national economy [is] heading toward recession.” The Administrator of Alameda County, Susan Muranishi has a more realistic assessment: “We probably have more than a recession and it's something we need to take care of in the long-term.”

 

Property tax revenues grew in Fremont by six percent this year, and the city forecasts a further rise of seven percent next year, though Alameda County expects property values will decline.

 

The city says the proposed budget for next year is “balanced; revenue growth estimated at 3.8%.” The city of Oakland is not as sanguine, and they expect revenues to drop eight percent in the baseline scenario or 12 percent in the pessimistic scenario. Alameda County is also preparing for tough times, and “supervisors directed county department heads to review their budgets and come back with proposals to address the shortfall…”

 

The city of Pleasanton has begun to tighten its belt, and “cut $6.3 million from a [$120 million] budget due to coronavirus…Pleasanton has reduced expenses because of some canceled city programs, shuttered city facilities, canceled training and conferences, and reduced maintenance costs.” Palo Alto also cut $40 million from next year’s budget, because it expects a “steep drop in sales tax receipts and hotel-tax revenues.”

 

The city of Fremont wants to increase headcount, and add six new employees next year. Though Fremont has a Pollyanna outlook, Palo Alto is slashing staff. “Facing budget crunch, Palo Alto backs cuts to police, fire services…reduce the budgets of the city's public safety departments by 9.1%…[will] eliminate more than two dozen positions in the Palo Alto Police Department…reductions in patrol operations, communications, dispatch and the investigations bureau. The department's traffic-enforcement team…would be eliminated…”

 

Cities around the world report stunning crime drops of 10 percent or more, as COVID-19 keeps people inside. The pandemic could force a restructuring for the public safety staff. During the Great Recession, the Bay Area “witnessed massive cuts to city staffs, reductions in services, and arguments over employee pensions…”

 

Fremont, on the other hand, wants to add staff. A May 19, 2020 staff recommendation includes “new police parking enforcement officers [city-wide] in the Fiscal Year 2020/21 budget [and] extend the Mission Peak Permit Parking Program for three years.” Meanwhile, Oakland has cut parking enforcement. “The city has turned off parking meters and seriously restricted the issuance of parking citations. Furthermore, due to limited staffing, the city has suspended the accrual of parking citation penalties for non-payment…”

 

We think that budget planners have to be fiscally prudent, not Panglossian. San Jose, Palo Alto, Alameda County, Oakland, and Pleasanton all report severe budget impacts. Our city should not rely on rosy forecasts, nor boost headcount for costly parking enforcement. Fremont must prepare for inevitable revenue shortfalls, rather than waiting for the dam to break.

 

1. yragui

Mission Peak Conservancy

 

 

Fremont Fire Department Log

Submitted by Fremont Fire Department

 

Friday, May 15

• At 8:34 p.m. firefighters were dispatched to Waterstone Apartments on Leslie Street. On arrival, crews located a fire on the third floor of the four-story building in a center hallway with a sprinkler head activated inside an apartment unit. Forcible entry was made into the unoccupied apartment and firefighters extinguished the blaze. There was extensive water damage on the second and third floors from the sprinkler system which also disabled the building’s electrical system, making the building uninhabitable. Fifty-three people from 30 units were displaced by the fire. The property manager assisted some of the displaced tenants with temporary lodging, while others made their own arrangements. The fire was confined to one unit, with multiple units sustaining smoke and/or water damage. The cause of the fire is under investigation. There were no reports of injuries to residents or firefighters.

 

Sunday, May 17

• At 8:35 p.m. firefighters responded to a call about an RV motorhome fire on the 41800 block of Boscell Road. The two occupants inside the RV exited before crews arrived. The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental and the RV was a total loss. There were no injuries.

 

 

Fremont City Council
May 19, 2020

 

Consent Calendar:

• Call for 2020 November election
• Approve public art recommendation by Art Review Board for Fairfield Residential Development Embark Apartments Inspiration Plaza site at 44758 Old Warm Springs Boulevard.

 

Scheduled Items:

• Continue Mission Peak neighborhood parking permit program including restricted parking on weekends and national holidays.

 

Council Comments:

• Resident and Business grant program available. Refer to city website for details.

 

Mayor Lily Mei                       Aye

Vice Mayor Rick Jones           Aye

Vinnie Bacon                          Aye

Raj Salwan                              Aye

Teresa Keng (District 2)         Aye

Jenny Kassan (District 3)        Aye

Yang Shao (District 4)            Aye

 

 

Fremont School District Meeting Highlights

Submitted by Brian Killgore

 

At its May 20 meeting, The Fremont Unified School District (FUSD) Board of Education:

 

• Approved Administrative Appointments – The board unanimously approved the appointment of five positions for the 2020-21 School Year:

 

1. Sumeyye Cardakali: assistant principal at American High School
2. Katy Carter: principal at Mission San Jose Elementary
3. Pamela Hughes: principal at Gomes Elementary
4. George Vuong: assistant Principal at American High School/Thornton Junior High School
5. Brian Walton: assistant principal at Irvington High School/Horner Middle School

 

• Received COVID-19 LEA Funding – The district has received an allocation from SB-117 totaling $594,013. The funds have been budgeted into placeholder line items to address multiple needs and requirements in response to COVID-19. The district continues to keep pace with the demands. Funding priorities include food services, internet connectivity, instructional computers, personal protection equipment, staff overtime, and software.

 

• Authorized staff to enter into agreement with Herff Jones for Virtual Graduation Ceremonies – Given the current global uncertainty and considering guidelines and recommendations from the Alameda County Public Health Department and Fremont Police Department, the only guaranteed method to deliver a safe and celebratory graduation at this time is a virtual platform. After the initial release, the link will be available on school and district websites and the community can view the ceremonies at any time they wish. Note – This method will be used as a contingency in the event planned “drive-thr”’ graduation ceremonies are prohibited by changes in health guidelines.

 

 

Order to allow marriage licenses via videoconference

Submitted by Governor's Press Office

 

On April 30, Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order that will allow adults to obtain marriage licenses through videoconferencing rather than in-person amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The provisions will be in place for the next 60 days for those who wish to be married during that time.

 

Under the order, adults will be able to obtain a marriage license, at the discretion of their local county clerk, through videoconferencing, as long as both adults are located within the State of California, are present and can present identification during the video conference. The license can then be issued via email.

 

Additionally, adults who wish to be married can conduct a ceremony to solemnize the marriage via videoconference if both parties are present and have at least one witness who can join the live video conference.

 

 

Firefighters, city manager, council members give up pay increases

Submitted by Chuck Finnie

 

On May 19, Hayward City Council approved changes in compensation agreements with Hayward firefighters, fire department managers, and City Manager Kelly McAdoo to save money amid steep declines in revenue stemming from COVID-19 health emergency.

 

Under the agreements, firefighters, fire department management, and McAdoo are giving up 2 percent salary increases they were scheduled to receive July 1, saving the city a combined $487,215 in FY 2021. The mayor and council members also voted to reduce their salaries by 2 percent for FY 2021 and cut their travel and other expense budgets by 50 percent, saving the city an additional $11,800.

 

These agreements and give-backs are the first to be reached since the city manager sent two formal proposals to city employee bargaining groups asking that all city workers accept 80 hours of furloughs or agree to forego scheduled July 1 pay increases.

 

 

City adjusts parking and traffic patterns

Submitted by City of Hayward

 

City of Hayward is altering parking regulations and traffic patterns in commercial districts as required and offering workplace-safety resources to support resumption of local retail, manufacturing, and warehouse and logistics business activity.

 

To facilitate curbside retail as well as ongoing restaurant takeout service, the city will be piloting the designation of diagonal parking spaces on B Street for limited time use only for pick-up of food and other items. Also, the city will be experimenting with removing single travel lanes to allow for more short-term parking, starting with B Street between Foothill and Mission boulevards, and potentially on Main Street between A and C streets.

 

To aid businesses as they are cleared to reopen, the state has published guidelines by respective industry sector and are available at https://covid19.ca.gov/industry-guidance/. Specific guidance for the restaurant industry is available at https://covid19.ca.gov/pdf/guidance-dine-in-restaurants.pdf.

 

 

Hayward Police Log

Submitted by Officer Claudia Mau, Hayward PD

 

Wednesday, May 20

• At about 2:27 p.m. officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of Wildwood and Kelly streets. During the contact, officers discharged their service weapons and a man in his 20s was killed. HPD officials have not released details about the incident or the identity of the man or the officers involved while an investigation is underway. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Eric Mulhern at (510) 293-7176.

 

 

Arrest made in home invasion robbery

Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont PD

 

A 23-year-old Antioch man has been arrested in connection with an armed home invasion robbery in Fremont, but two more suspects are still on the run, according to the Fremont Police Department (FPD).

 

The incident occurred at 10:35 a.m. on Tuesday, May 5 on the 2000 block of Laurel Canyon Court. Police said that during the home invasion, two suspects entered the victim's residence, pointed firearms at the victim and made them lie on the ground, ransacked the residence, and stole multiple items. A third suspect stayed outside in the suspect vehicle.

 

The case was investigated by the FPD’s Investigative unit which used video surveillance, license plate readers and community cameras to capture various images of the suspects and their vehicle. The investigation showed the same suspects attempted a separate residential burglary in Fremont, another in Union City, and committed a brutal robbery in San Francisco – all on the same day as the Fremont home invasion.

 

After intensive investigation, one of the suspects, identified by police as Tyler Spears, 23, was arrested May 14 in Vallejo by the FPD Special Weapons and Tactics team. When arrested, Spears had a loaded firearm in his possession that had been stolen during a residential burglary in Suisun City in January. He faces multiple felony charges and will be processed at the East County Hall of Justice in Contra Costa County.

 

Meanwhile, the second suspect, identified by police as Vermond Jones, 21, of San Francisco is still at large. Jones has six separate cases pending out of the Superior Court in San Francisco. Among those cases are arrests for robbery, burglary, carrying a loaded firearm, false imprisonment, child endangerment and other crimes. Nonetheless, Jones was released from custody on a GPS ankle monitor while those cases worked their way through the court process. Jones was wearing the GPS ankle monitor during the Fremont home invasion robbery.

 

On May 14 Jones disabled the GPS tracking device, prompting authorities to issue a felony warrant for his arrest. He is being sought by multiple police departments and is considered armed and dangerous. A search is also on for the unidentified third suspect who drove the car in the Fremont incident.

 

FPD officials are asking that anyone with information about Jones’ whereabouts to contact Det. Greg Wong at (510) 552-7670 or Det. Michael Gebhardt at (510) 673-3664.

 

 

Iconic San Francisco gay bar to shutter in pandemic fallout

AP Wire Service

 

SAN FRANCISCO (AP), May 21 – One of the nation's most celebrated gay bars is being forced from its home amid the financial fallout of the coronavirus pandemic.

 

The Stud is the longest continually running gay bar in San Francisco and known throughout the country as one of the bohemian, gender-bending, anything-goes institutions that made San Francisco into a gay mecca.

 

The 18-member collective that operates the club announced late Wednesday that they had decided to close the bar, though they will look for a new location.

 

“Because of a lack of revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the historic bar will be announcing that they are permanently closing their location and will be holding a drag funeral to honor the end of an era of LGBT nightlife,” said one of the owners, Honey Mahogany, in a news release.

 

It's at least the second time the 54-year-old bar has faced the prospect of full closure.  But previous situations were due to gentrification in San Francisco, now one of the nation's tech hubs.

 

In 2016 The Stud's current location was sold, and the bar's then-owner received was notified that monthly rent for the 2,800-square-foot space would leap from $3,800 to $9,500.

 

A cooperative group of 18 owners then bought the bar to keep it running.

 

Wedged into a space in San Francisco's South of Market neighborhood – the epicenter of the city's tech world – The Stud opened in 1966 and quickly gained a reputation as a spot with a hippie vibe and eclectic customers. Its current space features gilt mirrors, a disco ball and a small performance stage.

 

 

Semiconductor companies consider new plants in the U.S.

AP Wire Service

 

NEW YORK (AP), May 10 – Intel and a Taiwanese company are talking to the Trump administration about building new semiconductor plants in the United States amid concern about relying on suppliers in Asia for chips used in a wide variety of electronics.

 

A spokesman for Intel, the biggest American chip maker, said Sunday that the company is in discussions with the Defense Department about improving domestic technology sources. Spokesman William Moss said Santa Clara, California-based Intel is well-positioned to work with the government “to operate a U.S.-owned commercial foundry.”

 

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. is open to building a plant outside of Taiwan and has talked with the Commerce Department, a spokeswoman said.

 

“We are actively evaluating all the suitable locations, including in the U.S., but there is no concrete plan yet,” said the TSMC spokeswoman, Nina Kao.

 

The discussions were first reported by The Wall Street Journal, which said TSMC is also talking with Apple Inc., one of its biggest customers, about building a plant in the U.S.

 

The newspaper said the coronavirus pandemic has heightened worries about global supply chains, and that U.S. officials are particularly concerned about the growing reliance on Taiwan, the self-ruled island that is claimed by China.

 

Intel CEO Bob Swan said in a letter last month to two Pentagon officials that strengthening U.S. production “is more important than ever, given the uncertainty created by the current geopolitical environment.” He said it would be in the best interests of the United States and Intel to explore how the company could build a plant.

 

Concern about relying so heavily on chips from Taiwan, South Korea and China started even before the coronavirus outbreak.

 

The Pentagon and the Government Accountability Office issued reports on the matter last year. The GAO said that when U.S. companies shift operations overseas it can mean lower prices for components and technology used in weapons systems. However, having global sources “can also make it harder for (the Pentagon) to get what it needs if, for example, other countries cut off U.S. access to critical supplies,” the GAO said in a report last September.

 

 

Continuous Hope for Justice for Castro Valley Teen Slain 26 Years Ago

Submitted by Jenny Lin Foundation

 

A young, talented musician and a straight-A student, Jenny was murdered in her own home in Castro Valley on May 27, 1994 at the age of 14. This brutal death devastated her family and shocked the community. Jenny’s parents, John and Mei-lian Lin, vowed to continue working with the police until the case is solved, to carry on Jenny’s dreams and to see her life extended in a unique fashion.

 

For 26 years, the Jenny Lin Foundation has offered music scholarships and free music programs to the community each summer, and has organized numerous safety fairs, workshops and contests to raise awareness of child safety issues and to improve safety knowledge and precautions for parents and children. In addition, the Foundation embarked on a safety book project in collaboration with the Castro Valley Library, extending it to other Alameda County branches in San Lorenzo, Union City and Fremont Main Library. Titles covering a wide range of safety-related topics were added to their collections.

 

Throughout her life, Jenny maintained the most vibrant, vivacious and easy-going personality. Her big eyes and big smile always welcomed a good time. Even at her young age, she knew the secret to a happy and fulfilling life and helped others around her to discover the same.

 

Join the community in remembering Jenny on the anniversary. A link to watch the event live will be provided at https://jennylinfoundation.org.

 

To date, there is still no arrest or conviction related to Jenny’s murder. However, her family is hopeful that through continuous police effort and public help, this senseless, horrifying case will soon be solved. A $100,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of Jenny’s murderer is still available. Anyone with information please call the Alameda County Sheriff’s Department at (510) 667-7721 or the toll-free hotline at (855) 4-JENNY-LIN.

 

26th Service for Jennifer Han-chi Lin

Wednesday, May 27

7 p.m.

https://jennylinfoundation.org.

 

 

Joshua Tree National Park reopening with limitations

AP Wire Service

 

TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. (AP), May 20 – Joshua Tree National Park is slowly reopening after a lengthy closure to slow spread of the coronavirus.

 

The California park announced this week that it is using a phased approach.

 

Park entrances, roads, parking lots, trails, individual campsites and most restrooms are open.

 

Visitor centers and group campsites remain closed and all campsite reservations made through the recreation.gov are canceled.

 

The park says all campsites are first-come, first-served until Sept. 4, and campers must pay as normal at each campground.

 

All programs remain canceled.

 

Recent years have seen a big increase in the popularity of Joshua Tree, which straddles the Mojave and Colorado deserts 140 miles (225 kilometers) east of Los Angeles.

 

Spring and fall are the best times to visit. The rapidly approaching summer will bring scorching heat, intense sunlight and the need to drink at least one gallon (4 liters) of water a day.

 

 

Local libraries stand against the global crisis

By Marc Vicente

Photos by Marc Vicente

 

With shelter-in-place orders being extended, it remains uncertain when organizations will resume normal operations; businesses and public facilities are finding ways to adapt.

 

Libraries have undergone perhaps the most drastic of changes during this pandemic season. They house a variety of books that circulate among more than one person through checkout. Because the virus spreads through contact with people and other surfaces, checking out new physical books has been postponed ever since quarantine protocols were initiated to reduce the spread of the virus. In addition, many libraries in the Bay Area have extended the deadline of checked out media so that patrons can return them when the pandemic dies down. Multiple events involving libraries have also been postponed to maintain the safety of patrons.

 

Sometimes, libraries can serve as places for refuge for when disasters occur. Fremont Main Library Division Director Brian Edwards says, “A couple years ago, when we had fires, we had clean air circulating through the library so we had people coming inside for space to breathe and a cool place because they didn't have that at home. With this virus, we have to close our doors, which is hard for a lot of people and their mental health. This pandemic is difficult for a lot of people at home, with a lot of necessary services closed down. Some people have no access to internet, music or streaming services, so they are waiting for us to reopen soon.”

 

While a large majority of their physical books remain on shelves, libraries continue to help their communities through their websites, by providing registration for virtual library cards, or eCards, that allow free access to their online archive. Some libraries, like Hayward Public Library, also offered Chromebooks to some people via checkout before they closed. Hayward Public Library Director of Library Services Jayanti Addleman states that “the transition to digital services was not as difficult as one would expect, since [libraries] were equipped with online services long before the spread of COVID-19.”

 

Since libraries can only distribute their eBooks a finite number of times under digital rights laws, like the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, Edwards says that libraries have to constantly update, organize and expand their online databases to maintain and provide more content for patrons to enjoy, especially since the use of eLibraries has skyrocketed in the past two months.

 

In addition to eCards and eBooks, local libraries promote other services and events hosted by their librarians. Tutoring services for students, moral support lines for various demographics, and Census assistance are some of the services offered by multiple Bay Area libraries. Some offer their own unique events, such as Hayward Public Library’s virtual storytimes for children, and Union City Library’s Twitch streaming service where patrons can play games with each other.

 

On top of adapting their current services, libraries are currently cooperating with the Center of Disease Control (CDC), the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) and the State of California to create innovative ways to reconfigure facilities to decrease the spread of COVID-19 when they reopen. Seating and computer layouts will be rearranged to observe social distancing procedures, with Addleman stating that the Hayward Public Library will start adding plexiglass sneeze guards to their computer stations. Additionally, plans are underway to initiate contactless book pickup in June.

 

At the moment, the buildings remain empty. Fremont Library is only open to janitorial staff, and librarians are assisting with services while working from home. Before libraries open up again to implement changes, the CDC and IMLS are still working out the best possible courses of action to ensure that everyone can remain safe from the ever-spreading COVID-19 virus.

 

Hayward Public Library

Digital Lending

Ecards

Virtual classes/meetups

Tutoring

Census Information

Virtual Storytime

(510) 293-8685

https://www.hayward-ca.gov/public-library

 

Fremont Main Library

Digital Lending

Ecards

Virtual classes/meetups

Tutoring

Homeless Services

(510) 745-1400

https://guides.aclibrary.org/fremont

 

Milpitas Library

Digital Lending

Ecards

Tutoring

Virtual classes/meetups

Census Information

Passport Services

(408) 262-1171

https://sccld.org/locations/MI/

 

Editor’s Note:

Fremont Main, Castro Valley and San Lorenzo libraries are offering “no contact pickup” services. Items can be requested online, by phone or in-person by filling out a hold request and retrieving the items at a no-contact pickup table. Additional information is available at: https://guides.aclibrary.org/NoContactPickup or by calling:

Fremont Main: (510) 745-1400

Castro Valley: (510) 667-7900

San Lorenzo: (510) 284-0640

 

 

Competing in a virtual science fair

Submitted by Jim Hsia

 

One week before the prestigious Synopsys Championship Science Fair at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center, aspiring scientists and engineers were informed that the fair would be changed to online. For the middle school competitors from Milpitas Christian School (MCS), this was the time to practice their creative problem-solving skills.

 

After the county of Santa Clara banned large gatherings, the Synopsys Championship organizers decided it was time to have their first virtual Science Fair. Suddenly all the text, graphics, photos, and videos that would have been shown on a display board or notebook would need to be scanned and uploaded. A panel of judges would now be evaluating the materials and presentations of each student through a video conference.

 

MCS Participants in the Synopsys Championship

Six eighth graders from Mr. Eric Cho’s science class were accepted into the Synopsys Championship.

• Bowie C., The Growth of Moss Under Different Growing Conditions
• Terry H. and William T., Up, Up, and Away: A Quantitative Analysis On The Most Efficient Airfoil Type
• Justin H., Using A Grating Spectrometer to Study the Effectiveness of Blue Light Blocking Glasses
• Josephine K., Which Food Wrap Will Delay Food Decay the Longest?
• Himani M., Bioplastic from Root Vegetables and Its Effect on Tensile Strength, Water Permeability, and Biodegradability

 

The annual Synopsys Championship showcases middle and high students in the Santa Clara County who will become our future scientists, technology experts, engineers, and mathematicians. MCS students competed against public and prestigious private middle schools from Cupertino, Santa Clara, San Jose, Campbell, and Milpitas.

 

MCS Winners

Terry H. and William T. jointly received the 2nd Award in the Physical Science and Engineering Category, while Himani M. received a total of six awards in the Physical Science and Engineering category.

 

• 1st Award, Physical Science and Engineering Category
• Nominated to compete in the Broadcom MASTERS, 8th Grade. This national science fair is scheduled for October 2020 in Washington, D.C.
• Qualified for California Science & Engineering Fair (CSEF). Originally scheduled for April 2020 in Los Angeles, but has been cancelled due to COVID-19 crisis.
• 2nd Place award and certificate from American Society of Civil Engineers- San Jose Branch
• 2nd Place award and certificate from ASM International, A Society for Materials, Santa Clara Valley Chapter
• Middle School award and recognition from Northern California Institute of Food Technologists (NCIFT)

 

“My project is about making bioplastics from root vegetables,” explained Himani M. “I created bioplastics from three different root vegetables and compared the efficiency of them to determine if they are reasonable alternatives to conventional plastic. Looking at the results of my research, I learned that bioplastics are a good alternative to conventional plastic and are environment friendly. My years at MCS have helped me grow a love for science. My teachers have really supported me and helped me pursue my interests and goals which has helped me to be confident in the projects that I do today.” After high school, Himani plans to pursue an undergraduate degree in engineering.

 

“I’m very pleased to see our middle school students develop a passion for science and engineering,” commented Eric Cho, Science teacher for MCS. “It’s very gratifying to see that the research and investigation by our students have been recognized by Santa Clara Valley Science & Engineering Fair Association (SCVSEFA) and the Synopsys Silicon Valley Science and Technology Championship this year. Only the top 5% of all participants were invited to the national science fair (Broadcom MASTERS); the top 10% qualified for the California State Science Fair (CSEF).”

 

For more information about Milpitas Christian School or to arrange a campus tour (in-person or virtual), visit MilpitasChristian.org or call (408) 945-6530 x11209.

 

 

Milpitas Police Log

Submitted by Milpitas PD

 

Sunday, May 16

• A midnight shift officer spotted a suspicious 2019 U-Hall pickup truck being driven near the Milpitas Police Department station on North Milpitas Boulevard. A license plate check showed the truck was reported stolen from Oakland on April 29. Officers made a vehicle stop and took the driver, identified by police as Joseph Julio, 38, of Fremont, into custody. Officers also found drugs, drug paraphernalia and a stolen package inside the vehicle. Following COVID-19 protocols, Julio was cited and released pending charges from the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office.

 

Tuesday, May 19

• Shortly after midnight officers spotted a suspicious Toyota RAV4 in the parking lot of a motel on Dempsey Road. As officers attempted to talk to the driver, he sped away and collided with several parked vehicles and a cement planter box before stopping and fleeing on foot through a residential neighborhood. A resident alerted officers to the suspect who was taken into custody. A vehicle check showed that it had been stolen from a dealership in Sunnyvale. The suspect, identified by police as Richard Armendariz, 36, of Stockton, was booked into Santa Clara County Main Jail and faces charges of possessing a stolen vehicle, hit and run, and resisting arrest.

 

 

Milpitas City Council

May 19, 2020

 

Proclamations:

Proclaimed May as Teacher Appreciation Month

Proclaimed May as Affordable Housing and Building Safety Month

Proclaimed May 17 – 23, 2020 as Public Works Week

 

Consent Calendar:

• Accepted the 2020 Citizen Options for Public Safety Grant and approved a budget appropriation to the Police Department’s operating budget.
• Authorized submittal of the 2019 General Plan Annual Progress report to the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR).
• Affirmed re-appointment of Commissioner Casey McNeil and Alternate Member No. 2 Juliette Gomez to new 3-year terms on the Economic Development and Trade Commission.
• Authorized the City Manager to execute Amendment to the MoU with the Valley Water District establishing a mutual waiver of fees for City and District Capital Improvement Program Projects.
• Accepted report on suspension of the state’s Carry-Out Bag law under Executive Order N-54-20.

 

Public Hearings:

• Following a public hearing confirmed the assessment and ordered the levy for Landscaping and Lighting Maintenance Assessment District McCarthy Ranch for Fiscal Year 2020-21.
• Following a public hearing confirmed the assessment and ordered the levy for Landscaping and Lighting Maintenance Assessment District Sinclair Horizon for Fiscal Year 2020-21.
• Following a public hearing established ambulance and emergency medical services fees.

 

Community Development:

• Provided direction to staff on scope and implementation of the Community Identification and Brand Study (Phase II). Vote: Aye 3, Nay 2 (Nunez, Phan)

 

Leadership and Support Services:

• Approved permanent Employment Agreement with Steven McHarris to serve as City Manager.

 

Other Business:

• Unanimously supported “Laura’s Law” and directed staff to send a letter of support to the County of Santa Clara.
• Adopted a Resolution in support of the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

 

Rich Tran (Mayor)                              Aye

Bob Nunez (Vice Mayor)                   Aye,    Nay 1

Carmen Montano                                Aye

Karina Dominguez                              Aye

Anthony Phan                                     Aye,    Nay 1

 

Mission San Jose Chamber of Commerce

May 13, 2020

 

The Mission San Jose Chamber of Commerce held its first-ever Zoom Annual General Meeting on May 13, 2020 for its members. The highlight was a panel from Fremont City Council including Mayor Lily Mei, Vice Mayor and council member from District 2 Rick Jones; councilmember-at-large Dr. Ray Salwan, and Economic Development Director Christina Briggs.

 

Chamber President Esther Gonzales explained that the purpose of the General Meeting was to discuss what’s next for businesses in their planning and preparation for post-COVID-19. To support its business members during this pandemic, the MSJ Chamber is refunding or crediting 2020 member fees, and providing free member advertising in its newsletter and social platforms. The Chamber’s Economic Development task team is also conducting telechats, providing orange “Open for Business” posters and distributing safety masks.

 

Gonzales said the Chamber’s goals for post-COVID-19 are to plan for the next phase; protect the brick-and-mortar businesses, the Old Mission, and other historic treasures; and to continue cultivating the cultural diversity and historic flavor of Mission San Jose. Organizational goals will be marketing campaigns emphasizing MSJ identity, a strategic plan with clear metrics, and working closely with the City of Fremont for grants, incentives and other business support.

 

She also highlighted 2019’s accomplishments, including the successful Lobster Fest (August), Olive Fest (October) and Tree Lighting (December). The MSJ Chamber also supported the 2019 4th of July Parade, Las Posadas at the Old Mission, and the Fremont Housing Navigation Center.

 

Chamber VP John Schinkel moderated the panel discussion; attendees provided questions. In response to “what does re-opening look like?” Jones said the Fremont City Council is taking its guidance from state and county. “Sadly, we will probably lose a number of businesses,” he noted, but that they will do what they can to keep the business climate healthy. Council member Salwan noted that this pandemic is affecting all local businesses, but he believes there is a “lot of pent-up demand” and good will toward the business community that will translate into support for businesses.

 

Economic Director Briggs said the re-opening will take place in several stages and there is a need to clearly measure the impact COVID-19. Briggs also noted that there will likely be a lot of new rules and regulations and it will be important businesses have clear information. Micro-grants will be available with new information over the next several weeks.

 

Another question concerned tax relief. Councilmember Salwan pointed out that a lot of people don’t realize how much businesses help pay for city services, with half of the sales tax revenue coming from Pacific Commons alone. “We have to be creative in generating more revenue,” he said.

 

Briggs added that one of the largest shares of sales tax revenue comes from Fremont’s business and industrial base, bio-tech, clean energy, etc., and the associated B2B and supply chain revenue. Many of these businesses have remained open since Day 1 of the closures as they are deemed essential; this is an advantage to Fremont as many cities rely heavily on hotel and tourism taxes which have taken a hit in this economic downturn.

 

Mayor Mei said that City Council strives to not just welcome businesses to Fremont but to do everything we can to help them succeed. She added that as the re-opening continues, they will work closely with Alameda County to get clear guidelines for businesses and how to implement these guidelines.

 

Briggs added that as a team of four people (in the Economic Development office) in a city of a quarter million, getting good data from businesses “is one of our biggest challenges…We welcome your input,” she said.

 

The MSJ Chamber of Commerce meeting was taped and can be viewed on their website under News: https://www.msjchamber.org/

 

 

Astronauts arrive for NASA's 1st home launch in decade

By J

AP Aerospace Writer

 

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. (AP), May 20 – The two astronauts who will end a nine-year launch drought for NASA arrived at Kennedy Space Center on Wednesday, exactly one week before their historic SpaceX flight.

 

It will be the first time a private company, rather than a national government, sends astronauts into orbit.

 

NASA test pilots Doug Hurley and Bob Behnken flew to Florida from Houston aboard one of the space agency's jets.

 

“It's an incredible time for NASA and the space program, once again launching U.S. crews from Florida and hopefully in just a week from about right now,” Hurley told reporters minutes after arriving.

 

Hurley was one of the four astronauts who arrived at Kennedy on July 4, 2011, for the final space shuttle flight, “so it's incredibly humbling to be here to start out the next launch from the United States.”

 

“We feel it as an opportunity but also a responsibility for the American people, for the SpaceX team, for all of NASA,“ Behnken added.

 

The two are scheduled to blast off next Wednesday afternoon atop a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, bound for the International Space Station. They'll soar from the same pad where Atlantis closed out the shuttle program in 2011, the last home launch for NASA astronauts.

 

Since then, the only way to the space station for astronauts has been on Russian rockets launched from Kazakhstan.

 

Greeting the astronauts at Kennedy's former shuttle landing strip were the center's director, former shuttle commander Robert Cabana, and NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine.

 

“You really are a bright light for all of America right now,” Bridenstine told them.

 

The welcoming committee was reduced drastically in size because of the coronavirus pandemic. There were no handshakes for the astronauts, who did not wear masks but kept their distance at separate microphones. Both Cabana and Bridenstine wore masks except while addressing the crowd; so did the approximately 20 journalists standing more than 20 feet (6 meters) away.

 

During these tough times, Bridenstine said, “this is a moment when we can all look and be inspired as to what the future holds.“

 

NASA's commercial crew program has been years in the making. Boeing, the competing company, isn't expected to launch its first astronauts until next year.

–––

 

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute's Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.

 

 

COVID-19 – Nature's Revenge?

 

Lest we forget, the current coronavirus pandemic–like the 2003 SARS

epidemic–was HUMAN-caused, a direct result of our callous and brutal

mistreatment of animals, both wild and domestic.  And now the chickens, as

they say, are coming home to roost.

 

Ironically, many animals are benefiting, both locally and worldwide. Rodeo

cancellations by the score:  Rowell Ranch, Livermore, Woodside Jr. Rodeo,

Redding, the Calgary Stampede, likely Salinas.  Also cancelled or postponed

are innumerable circuses, bullfights, charreadas, Spain's Running of the

Bulls, greyhound and horse races, the Kentucky Derby and more.  And the

CA live animal food markets are finally getting the attention they deserve.

They are cruel, environmentally-destructive and a major public health hazard.

 

If nothing else, COVID-19 should teach us all a lesson about humility and

compassion for others, human and non-human animals alike.  Here's hoping.

 

Eric Mills, coordinator

ACTION FOR ANIMALS

 

 

Local sailor serves with U.S. Navy in Guam

Submitted by Navy Office of Community Outreach

 

King Chen of Hayward, U.S. Navy electronics technician 3rd Class, runs diagnostics on a radar data processor aboard aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN 71) on May 17. Theodore Roosevelt is simulating at-sea operations while moored at Naval Base Guam. (U.S. Navy photo by Julian Davis, mass communication specialist 3rd Class)

 

 

New officers welcomed aboard

Submitted by UCPD

 

Officials from the Union City Police Department welcomed three new officers to their family on Monday, May 18. They are: Officers Jesenia Chavez, Jul Brucato, and Pou Wong. All three are graduates of the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Academy.

 

 

Newark Police Log

Submitted by Newark PD

 

Wednesday, May 20

• At 11:48 a.m. while officers were attempting to serve a felony arrest warrant at a residence on the 36000 block of Beutke Drive, the 66-year-old man produced a handgun. As officers yelled for him to drop the gun, the man fired a single shot into his head. Paramedics were called, but the man was dead. A preliminary investigation showed that an officer may have fired a single round from his patrol rifle, but it did not hit the man. Newark Police Department detectives are investigating the case with the assistance of the Fremont Police Department and the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office. Anyone with information that can help investigators is asked to contact Lieutenant David Higbee with the Newark Police Department Investigations Unit at (510) 578-4962 or via email at david.higbee@newark.org. Information can also be left anonymously on the “Silent Witness” hotline at (510) 578-4965.

 

 

Newark City Council

May 14, 2020

 

Introduction of employees.

• Assistant City Manager Lenka Hovorka, Police Chief Gina Anderson, and Maintenance Division Senior Administrative Support Specialist Jennifer Tran were introduced to the City Council.

 

Consent Calendar:

• Accept Alameda County Fire Department Inspection Report.

 

Non-Consent:

• Update of Draft 2020-2022 Capital Improvement Plan with project funding recommendations. Works Session scheduled for May 28; detailed review June 9; approval June 25.
• Update to the City’s Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
• Approve Side Letters between the City of Newark and the Newark Association of Miscellaneous Employees (NAME), Newark Police Association (NPA), and Newark Police Management Association (NPMA) and to execute Compensation and Benefit Plan Modifications for Employees Compensation and Benefit Plans for City Officials and the Management, Supervisory and Professional Employee Group and the Confidential Group to temporarily modify benefits as a result of changed conditions due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
• Approval of Annual Engineer’s Reports, intention to levy and collect assessments and setting date of public hearing on June 25, 2020 for Landscaping and Lighting District Nos. 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 15, 16, 17, 18 and 19 for fiscal year 2020-2021. (Collazo, recuse)

 

City Council Matters:

• Reappointing Senior Citizen Standing Advisory Committee members: Elwood Ballard, Sandra Arellano, Rick Arellano, and Stanley Keiser. Appointments to vacancy: Susan Johnson, and Olga Borjon.
• Close in memory of Diane Richards Reese and Raul Valle
• Recognition of volunteers, city staff, organizations and businesses that have helped the community during the COVID-19 crisis

 

Mayor Alan Nagy                   Aye

Vice Mayor Luis Freitas         Aye

Sucy Collazo                           Aye (1 recusal)

Michael Hannon                     Aye

Mike Bucci                             Aye

 

 

Planning a design project? Question yourself like a designer

By Anna Jacoby

 

If you are planning a design project, ask yourself the same questions a designer would ask you. When I meet with new clients, I ask lots of questions to get to know their lifestyle, taste, and design goals so I can best help them. If you are on your own, these same questions can help you focus and prioritize what is most important to you and help you get started.

 

1. What do you love about this room? Which elements are staying and need to be incorporated into the new design? Sometimes the answer is “nothing!” But there is always something. Perhaps you like the large windows, or the wood flooring, or a piece of artwork you bought on vacation. If it is the view and the windows you like most, design a seating arrangement and a window treatment that will enhance them. If it is a piece of artwork, pull colors from it to design your color scheme. If you must keep something because it’s too expensive to replace right now (like not-so-attractive fireplace tile, for example), then design the room so it’s NOT the focal point. Add other elements to bring the eye to other areas in the room.

 

2. What do you dislike about the room? What would you like to change? Design is about aesthetics, but it is also about improving functionality. The most common complaints I hear are “This room is too dark,” “The room lacks storage,” and “I can’t figure out how to arrange the furniture as the room is too small/large/long/narrow.” Fortunately, all those problems can be solved. Room too dark? Guess what – add lighting. Recessed lights, track lights, a chandelier, pendant lights, and wall sconces are all possible options. For space planning, draw the space to scale and use furniture templates to experiment with different arrangements. Not enough storage? Consider built-in cabinetry, tall bookcases, or storage ottomans.

 

3. How is this room used? A dining room may indeed be for dining, but it also may need to serve as a homework spot; a living room may also serve as a home office; a guest room may need to accommodate both grandkids and hobbies. List all the activities that need to take place so you can design accordingly. A Murphy bed with a built-in worktable might be a great solution for your guest room. And a buffet in your dining room may be better suited for storing school supplies instead of those seldom-used “good dishes.”

 

4. What colors do you love? Don’t worry about what’s popular – if you find yourself still loving colors from previous decades, have no fear. Any color can be made to look new again if it is paired with more current colors. Pore over magazine photos, Pinterest, and Houzz.com to view a wide variety of beautiful color schemes. More important than being “current” is being happy. So, choose colors you love.

 

5. What is the overall look and feel you would like to see? I recently worked on a project where our design theme was “Modern Urban Rustic.” This kept us focused when selecting furnishings and materials. For example, we used rustic, reclaimed wood for the floors, combined with modern, funky light fixtures.

 

6. Are there special needs to consider? For example, if there are elderly parents or people with disabilities, you should stay away from area rugs, which can pose a tripping hazard. With small children, you may want to look at furniture with rounded edges or leather pieces that are easy to wipe clean. Satin finish paint is also a good option for rooms where kids and pets hang out.

 

7. Do you want to complete this project all at once, or over time in phases? If you know your end goal, it’s OK to tackle a project in phases. However, don’t let the project take so long that you start changing your mind about your design goals, or find yourself never finishing. Sometimes this happens on a decorating project – we get the furniture purchased and walls painted, but then clients don’t follow through with the window treatments and accessories. The result is a room that is not quite done, which can leave everyone unsatisfied. If possible, save enough money to do the whole project at once.

 

8. What is your budget for this project? Is it realistic? I find that clients sometimes have no idea how much things cost. So, while they have a budget amount in their head, it often does not match the reality of what they want. Remember to add on sales tax, shipping and charges for delivery, installation, and furniture assembly. Plus, labor for painting, crown molding, electrical work, etc. Unfortunately, things always seem to be more expensive than people think, especially in the Bay Area.

 

9. How long are you planning to stay in your house? This can affect your design plan. If you are planning on selling soon, then meeting with a realtor would be helpful to get an idea of the best ways to allocate your design budget. If this is your long-term house, then by all means, design it for your own taste and lifestyle.

 

 

Real Estate Notebook

Home Prices and Pace of Sales Accelerate

By David Stark, Public Affairs Director, Bay East Association of REALTORS®

 

Even in the middle of a global pandemic, home ownership is still desirable. Strong demand is being met by weak supply.

 

Significantly fewer homes were for sale throughout the East Bay in April 2020 as compared with April 2019. In Fremont, there were 202 homes for sale in April 2019 and 113 in April 2020: a 44 percent drop in inventory. Homes for sale dropped 56 percent in Newark, 37 percent in Union City, and 43 percent in Hayward.

 

“If you’re a buyer right now, it’s very, very competitive,” said Fremont-based REALTOR® Steve Medeiros, 2020 treasurer of Bay East Association of REALTORS®. “There’s pent-up demand from homebuyers who have been sitting on the sidelines waiting. Now that health officials are allowing buyers to see both occupied and vacant homes, they’re just frothing at the mouth to buy and there are more buyers than inventory.”

 

Asked about the impact of COVID-19 on buyer enthusiasm, Medeiros said, “We put our gloves and masks and booties on, and we go find a house.” He explained that if a buyer is motivated enough to look for a home, they will work within the health department rules to make it happen.

 

Medeiros said the frenzy to purchase homes may be cooled later this year because more homes may be coming on the market and that the impact of COVID-19 on the economy may dampen some of the buyer enthusiasm.

 

With fewer homes for sale during April, there were fewer homes sold. There were 127 homes sold in Fremont April 2019 compared with 76 in April 2020, a 40 percent loss. Sales in Newark were down 63 percent, in Union City down 50 percent, and in Hayward down 47 percent.

 

The gloomy supply and sales statistics do not tell the complete story. Sales prices throughout the East Bay were either stable or increased compared with April 2019. The median sales price for a single-family detached home in Fremont rose one percent from $1,232,000 last April to $1,240,000. Prices in Newark increased seven percent to $995,000, in Union City prices were up five percent to $963,000 and up three percent in Hayward to $740,000.

 

Medeiros indicated it is a great time to sell. “Sellers are going to get a lot of buyers and that extrapolates out to more offers,” he said. “Sellers are feeling better about the process now that homes may be staged and they don’t have be vacant,” said Medeiros, though he mentioned that the process is easier if the home is vacant.

 

Buyer demand pushed up prices and drove down how long a home was on the market. In Fremont, a home was on the market an average of 23 days during April 2019. This April, that period dropped to 14 days. Similar changes were seen nearby: Days-on-market in Newark dropped from 30 to 16, in Union City from 16 to 7, and in Hayward from 36 to 11 days.

 

Medeiros said a home listed for sale in Hayward recently was on the market for less than a week and the sellers received 30 purchase offers.

 

 

Zero contact curbside pickup and bike shop services

Submitted by Courtney Rose

 

As cities and states around the country look to reopen businesses, REI is offering curbside pickup and bike shop services at its Fremont store. Customers can place an order through REI.com or the REI shopping app and an employee wearing gloves and a mask will load items in the customer’s vehicle once they arrive outside the store.

 

In addition, customers can call their local store to schedule an appointment for maintenance or repair services, securely drop off their bike outside the store, and an REI technician will service the bike, notifying customers by phone when it’s ready. REI recommends checking local guidelines before heading outside.

 

For more information about REI’s curbside services, visit https://www.rei.com/h/curbside-pickup. To schedule a bike shop service appointment, call Fremont REI Bike Shop at (510) 651-0305.

 

REI Curbside Services

43962 Fremont Blvd., Fremont

(510) 651-0305

https://www.rei.com/h/curbside-pickup

 

 

San Leandro: Creating a City of Kindness

By Johnna M. Laird

 

Around the East Bay Area, local leaders are stepping up to take care of their city’s ongoing needs during the evolving pandemic. We’ve reached out to our mayors from Hayward, San Leandro, Union City, Newark, Fremont, and Milpitas to get updates on the state of their city and how the daily experience of performing their duties looks different than under normal circumstances.

 

This week we’re checking in with Pauline Russo Cutter, Mayor of San Leandro.

 

San Leandro Kindness Network, a city-sponsored website to match volunteers with organizations in need, launched April 2, weeks after sheltering in place began in the Bay Area. The launch could not have occurred at a better time, given extensive needs triggered by job layoffs and furloughs. However, the idea for San Leandro Kindness Network emerged long before the pandemic.

 

Designed to facilitate volunteering and create optimal connections between volunteers and non-profits in need, San Leandro Kindness Network was in the works for three years.  San Leandro Mayor Pauline Russo Cutter planned to unveil the volunteer hub at her State of the City address on March 30; however, sheltering in place derailed her speech. San Leandro moved ahead to activate the volunteer hub on the city website, focusing primarily on immediate food bank needs. Rather than a general call for volunteers, the site lists tasks precisely so volunteers know what to expect, even to the weight a volunteer may be expected to lift.

 

Cutter initiated the idea for San Leandro’s Kindness Network three years ago after being grounded by snow in Washington, D.C. for three days and seeing television public service announcements of the mayor calling on neighbors to help elderly neighbors and those with disabilities shovel snow and ice off sidewalks. In D.C., residents must remove snow within 24 hours or face a fine.

 

“Three hours can mean a whole bunch to someone,” says Cutter, who regularly volunteers herself, preparing meals for a women’s shelter and a program serving the homeless. “San Leandro is a community with a big heart.”

 

On a mission to make San Leandro: A City of Kindness an unofficial motto, Cutter put those words into practice last week, making contacts to find large quantities of clean grocery bags for food banks, since shelter in place requires prepacked bags for pickups Metro Poly Co. of San Leandro met the urgent initial need for bags, but more were needed. A preschool teacher for 28 years, Cutter remembered a parent who worked for Safeway and lived down the street. That contact led to an additional 1,000 donated bags.

 

To aid local food banks now receiving fewer donations from Alameda County Community Food Bank, San Leandro City Council approved $135,000 to divide equally among nine active food banks operating in the city. Cutter says needs are great. As an example, she cites an evening food bank where pre-pandemic, 85 to 100 people sought donations daily, but on May 14, 600 people showed up.

 

“There are a lot of families in need,” says Cutter. “When you can’t get your paycheck, unemployment [isn’t] a long-term solution. People are having problems paying their bills.”

 

To help individuals and families who rent, the city council placed a moratorium on evictions until the state of emergency ends. The moratorium proved easier than Cutter anticipated, given that “when small apartment owners don’t get their money, they can’t pay their mortgages.”

 

San Leandro’s small businesses are also seeking help. Transferring $250,000 designated for small businesses to paint and refurbish their exteriors, the city council created a program to lend $5,000 per small business, enough for 50 loans. However, the city received 309 small business applications.  The council added $60,000 from energy funds returned to the city to offer a total of 62 loans for businesses with 25 or fewer employees.

 

Cutter believes San Leandro’s budgeting reflects kindness. For three years, the city has worked to obtain a mental health mobile van, slated to arrive July 1; a shower trailer already operates to serve the 400-plus homeless people living in San Leandro. Kindness comes in many forms, from donating masks or food, to helping neighbors, all of which Cutter says she has seen during the pandemic.

 

However, kindness during the pandemic also means adhering to safety guidelines and avoiding large gatherings – rules that can be hard to follow as more flock to the city’s parks and outdoor spaces. To encourage safety, the city removed basketball hoops, closed tennis courts, and took down swings to make playgrounds less enticing. The city’s golf course reopened May 24, allowing one player per golf cart, required all to wear masks.

 

“People want to go out in green space,” says Cutter, often at her computer screen for hours in endless video conferencing meetings, looking at her own flower garden she posted as her video background. “I can’t blame people for wanting green space, but we want people to be safe.”

 

Cutter wants to be out in the community reassuring San Leandro residents, but being in a higher risk category for contracting COVID-19, she must be judicious. When in public, she is sure to wear a mask and social distance, modeling practices she hopes everyone in San Leandro will follow.

 

This article is part of an ongoing series of interviews with local mayors. Other interviews have run in previous issues.

 

 

San Leandro City Council

May 18, 2020

 

Recognitions:

• Proclamation declaring May 18, 2020 as Robert McManus Day.
• Proclamation declaring the month of May 2020 as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month.
• Proclamation proclaiming the city of San Leandro united against racism and xenophobia during the COVID-19 pandemic.

           

Public Comments:

• Resident expressed concern over what he thought to be an illegal campaign mailer he received.

 

Presentations:

• Presentation of the city’s draft of the budget for Fiscal Year 2020-2021.
• Public comment: Resident expressed concern for how public safety, particularly the fire and police departments, may be affected by the upcoming budget.

 

Public Hearings:

• Resolution of the city council amending Title 6, Chapter 4 of the San Leandro administrative code relating to fees and charges for services provided by city departments; adjustments effective July 1, 2020. Item passed: 7-0.
• Ordinance of the city council amending section 2-13-140 of the San Leandro municipal code relating to the Annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment of the Emergency Medical Services Tax (EMS Tax), to increase by CPI of 3.31%. Item passed: 7-0.
• Ordinance of the city council amending section 2-18-210 of the San Leandro Municipal Code Relating to the Annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment of the Emergency Communication System Access Tax (911 Tax), to increase by CPI of 3.31%. Item passed: 7-0.
• Ordinance of the city council amending section 2-2-500 of the San Leandro Municipal Code for the Annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustment to the Business License Fees, to increase by CPI of 3.31%. Item passed: 7-0.

 

Consent Calendar:

• Resolution of the city council extending proclamation of local and state of emergency by the city’s director of Emergency Services pursuant to California Government Code Section 8630 and Public Contract Code Section 22050(c) because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Calendar passed: 7-0.                                     

 

Items Removed from Consent Calendar:

• Resolution of the city council to approve a consulting services agreement with CSG Consultants, Inc. for the civil engineering design of the Washington Avenue reconstruction project. Item passed: 7-0.

 

Action Items:

• Discussion of city’s response to COVID-19.
• Public comment: One resident expressed discontent with the extended shelter in place order and how he believed that city hall was mismanaging the situation and limiting residents’ freedoms.

 

City Council Reports:

• Councilmember Lopez and Councilmember Cox attended the Alameda County Transit Planning Commission meeting where the county-wide transit plan extending through 2050 was discussed. The Alameda County Fire Advisory Commission meeting was canceled. However, Chief Rocha will be issuing a report in lieu of the meeting.
• Councilmember Cox attended the San Leandro Improvement Association board meeting where the main item of discussion was the mid-year budget revision.
• Councilmember Aguilar attended the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement meeting where the budget for 2020-2021 was approved.
• Councilmember Hernandez attended the East Bay Community Energy meeting where they discussed the budget and predicted that there would be a reduction of around 100 million dollars in revenue this year.

 

City Council Calendar and Announcements:

• Mayor Cutter announced the ongoing disaster council meetings.

 

Councilmember Requests to Schedule Agenda Items

• Vice Mayor Ballew requested that a presentation by staff on the hazards of butane be presented at the second council meeting in June. Item passed: 7-0.
• Councilmember Lopez requested that a resolution be put on an upcoming agenda to join with the National League of Cities in supporting the United States House of Representatives’ HEROES Act. Item passed: 7-0.
• Councilmember Aguilar requested that the pride flag be raised at city hall for the upcoming LGBTQ+ pride month. Item passed: 7-0.

 

 

Mayor Pauline Russo Cutter                           Aye

Vice Mayor Corina N. Lopez                         Aye

Victor Aguilar, Jr.                                           Aye

Ed Hernandez                                                 Aye

Benny Lee                                                       Aye

Deborah Cox                                                   Aye

Pete Ballew                                                     Aye

 

 

Local county moves to Phase 2 reopening

Submitted by Supervisor Dave Cortese

 

Santa Clara County is ready to support the businesses now allowed to provide curbside retail, manufacturing, and childcare as they prepare to reopen with the required safety measures to protect workers and the public from COVID-19. The county is moving forward to Phase 2 because of the cooperation and sacrifices of our residents, business owners, teachers, students, community leaders, and healthcare workers. At the same time, the public health department will carefully monitor coronavirus cases and other data to ensure that the county continues to make progress toward reducing the impact of the virus.

 

 

SB 898 bill to protect Scholarshare accounts from creditors

Submitted by Jeff Barbosa

 

As COVID-19 wreaks havoc on the personal finances of families, a new state proposal authored by Senator Bob Wieckowski and sponsored by California Treasurer Fiona Ma would exempt higher education 529 Scholarshare accounts from creditors in bankruptcy cases. The Senate Judiciary Committee approved Senate Bill 898 on May 22.

 

“When a taxpayer files for bankruptcy, a child’s college savings account should be protected,” said Ma. “During times like these, we need to protect the next generation and give them every opportunity to succeed.”

 

California created the Scholarshare 529 college savings accounts in 1999 to help families of all income levels prepare and save for future higher education expenses. Children with savings accounts, however small, are far more likely to enroll and graduate from college. But unlike retirement plans, 529 accounts are not protected from creditor claims in California. A creditor can attach the account to satisfy a judgment, which can be devastating to a family and reduce access to college.

 

“Studies show that college education can substantially increase a person’s earning power over the course of a lifetime and if we do not provide this exemption, we are penalizing children by holding them responsible for their parents’ or grandparents’ financial difficulties. If we are serious about fighting intergenerational poverty, we should pass SB 898 and ensure access to higher education,” said Wieckowski.

 

 

Student raises more than $5,000 for local food bank

By Brittany Ung

 

Tri City Volunteers is getting a deposit—and it’s not canned food.

 

Aditya Mittal, a ninth-grade student at American High School, started an online fundraiser that has raised more than $5,000 for the TCV Food Bank.

 

Because of the novel coronavirus, TCV Food Bank is now serving roughly double the number of families, according to Executive Director Taylor Johnson—more than 500 families every day, instead of the usual 250. The food pantry has also switched from a self-serve, marketplace format to a contactless drive-thru that delivers pre-packaged bags of food. Those two major changes mean the food bank is spending more on food and bags to send it in.

 

The TCV Food Bank usually relies on its thrift store to cover some of its costs, Johnson said. But because of health precautions against the coronavirus, the thrift store is now closed for the foreseeable future.

 

Mittal has been volunteering at the food bank for two years. He’s a Boy Scout—a Life Scout, just one rank below Eagle Scout, the organization’s highest rank. During his two years with the Boy Scouts, Mittal volunteered every other week at the TCV Food Bank to fulfill his service requirements.

 

So, when the pandemic began to impact his community in Fremont, he thought of the food bank.

“The people there are really just amazing,” Mittal said. “They’re really citizens of Fremont. They take pride in what they’re doing and they’re very selfless people. They just want to help the community in any way possible.”

 

Mittal called the food bank to ask if they needed help. They did. So he started thinking of ways he could get involved.

 

Mittal is an officer in his school’s Red Cross Club, which gives aid to humanitarian projects and teaches emergency preparedness. Mittal contacted the club’s four other leaders to let them know about the food pantry’s needs. Together, they brainstormed ways to help alleviate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Bay Area. They eventually settled on a fundraiser and set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for the food bank.

 

The five students sent out the link to friends and family, asking them to donate and send the link out to everyone they knew. Mittal and the other club officers spread the word via social media posts and on Nextdoor. Mittal even contacted each member of the Fremont City Council to ask for donations.

 

In just four days, the fundraiser had received more than $3,000.

 

“I think people really were quick to donate because they connected with it,” Mittal said. “It’s their own community and they have pride in their community, so they could support it.”

 

According to Johnson, the money will go toward buying food and bags to put it in, since because of the virus, visitors can no longer use their own. TCV Food Bank usually receives donated bags from food retailers. But because of the virus, those stores now need those bags to keep their own customers safe, and TCV must purchase their own.

 

“Any monies we can get, we’re grateful,” Johnson said. “And getting a great donation from Adi is fantastic. I think he’s done an amazing job, actually. That’ll go directly into the day-to-day operations of the pantry.”

 

Johnson said donating money is the best way to help the TCV Food Bank right now. Food donations need to be sanitized and sorted, which takes manpower the food bank just doesn’t have—especially since most of its regular volunteers are older and are staying home to keep from catching the virus. The food bank can use any donated funds to buy what it needs and its volunteers can focus on packing food to take to clients.

 

The fundraiser is still active. Mittal and the rest of the team are continuing to raise money via the GoFundMe page, and they hope to reach $7,000 or $8,000 in the coming weeks.

 

“It’s really incredible to see how much our community is valuing our food banks,” Mittal said. “The quickness they have to help the community, that’s really outstanding.”

 

To donate or read more about the fundraiser, visit gofundme.com/f/hua9y-d.

Online guide to connect residents to resources

Submitted by City of Union City

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has put our households in stressful and uncertain circumstances, particularly when it comes to finances. Union City has compiled a comprehensive list of resources to connect you to the help that you need. The guide includes up-to-date information and resources about:

 

• Protections for renters
• Financial and unemployment resources
• Information for immigrants and undocumented people
• Food assistance
• Assistance for families in need
• Healthcare and mental health resources

 

To view the guide, visit shorturl.at/fmIW1. This guide will be continuously updated. Visit https://www.unioncity.org/445/Coronavirus-Disease-COVID-19 for updated information.

 

 

University of California imposes pay freeze as losses mount

By Jocelyn Gecker

Associated Press

 

SAN FRANCISCO (AP), May 20 – The University of California is imposing a system-wide freeze on salaries of its non-unionized employees due to enormous financial losses caused by the coronavirus pandemic, President Janet Napolitano said Monday.

 

Napolitano is taking a 10% voluntary pay cut, as are the system's 10 chancellors, she said in a statement that was sent to faculty and staff systemwide. She said her office has initiated conversations with union leaders so they understand the seriousness of the financial situation.

 

“I know some of this news is unsettling, during an already difficult time,” Napolitano said. “The present realities and ongoing uncertainties, however, require us to take actions in order to adjust to current circumstances,”

 

The UC, with more than 290,000 students, is one of the country's largest public higher education systems. It estimates financial losses of nearly $1.2 billion from mid-March through April, and those losses are expected to increase in the months ahead, Napolitano said. Compounding the losses, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced last week a revised state budget for 2020-2021 that includes a 10% funding reduction for UC of $372 million.

 

To help cope with the shortfalls, Napolitano and the system's 10 chancellors agreed to a system-wide freeze on salaries for “policy covered staff employees,” or non-union staff, for the 2020-21 fiscal year and the 10% cut to their own salaries for the same time period, said Napolitano.

 

Napolitano's office did not immediately say how many employees would be affected by the freeze. But the UC says on its website that there are 14 unions representing more than 79,000 workers, and total employment for UC is 199,000.

 

The UC's governing board and Napolitano have their bimonthly meeting Tuesday through Thursday, when they are expected to focus on budget concerns and guidelines UC campuses will use when reopening to students. The UC has not yet said if courses will resume in classrooms this fall or online due to concerns about the pandemic.

 

“We are a strong organization and will work over time to address our losses and recover,” said Napolitano.

 

 

Call for volunteer contact tracers

Submitted by Janice Rombeck

 

Santa Clara County and its residents have been working side by side to slow the spread of COVID-19. Now, residents can join public health officials by volunteering to be contact tracers to help the officials get a more complete picture of infection outbreaks and stop them from spreading.

 

The county must build a strong and robust contact tracing team to prepare for an expected increase in COVID-19 cases as some of the shelter-in-place orders are loosened. Those interested can find out more information and apply by visiting www.sccgov.org/sites/covid19/Pages/i-can-help.aspx.

 

 

One hundred years, and still counting

By Rob Klindt

 

If longtime Fremont resident Leroy R. Raymond were to look back at his life through the lens of time, he likely would need to open the viewing aperture a bit wider to take in more than a century of experiences.

 

Raymond was born May 4, 1919 in Oakland, but raised in Irvington, one of the five townships that joined to form the City of Fremont in 1956. In May, 2020 he celebrated his 101st birthday at his home in the Irvington district which he and his late wife Arletha purchased new in 1965 to raise their three children.

 

“He grew up in Irvington and it’s always been home to him,” said his son, Steven R. Raymond, 71, who also grew up in the area but now makes his home in Southern California. While the elder Raymond’s health is fairly good, he let his son share details about his life due to difficulties with phone use.

 

When Raymond was a youngster in the 1920s and 30s, Irvington was a bustling community with farmers growing crops of wheat, corn, cauliflower, tomatoes, and apricots. Major employers included a large pickle factory and an Occidental stove factory. The Irvington Monument, a prominent traffic marker that welcomed visitors to the area, sat at the convergence of five important roadways in the downtown business area which locals dubbed “Five Corners”. Raymond’s parents owned the Irvington Hotel and he lived there for a while, according to his son.

 

The younger Raymond said his father attended first through eighth grades at Irvington Grammar School before moving to Washington Union High School in Centerville where he played football and track. He graduated with the class of 1937. As a teenager, Raymond got a job working for a prominent Irvington businessman, Alfred Peixotte, owner of The Irvington Meat Market. “He would load the truck and serve the local farmers.”

 

The winds of war

After Raymond finished high school it wasn’t long before the winds of war began to swirl, eventually drawing the United States into World War II. In April 1941 Raymond enlisted in the Army. “He was in the service for eight and a half months on CQ [change of quarters guard] duty and originally stationed at Camp Roberts,” his son recalled.

 

Soon, Raymond decided he wanted to be a pilot and requested to join a training program. He was selected and started 10 months of training in Florida, finishing in July 1944. “They were begging for people to be pilots because there was a shortage,” his son said. “But you had to be physically good; if you slip up, you’re out of it.”

 

Fresh out of training, Raymond was sent to Italy with the Army Air Corps during the height of the war where he piloted a variety of aircrafts including a P-38, Mosquito and P-51 Mustangs. During his military career, Raymond flew in the Fifteenth Air Force, the 306th Fighter Wing, the 325th Fighter Group and the 318th Fighter Squadron. “He flew all kinds of missions,” his son said, adding that “most of the missions were escorts, bombers, reconnaissance.”

 

The younger Raymond described hearing about his father’s most challenging mission, which took place on September 1, 1944. “All three squadrons flew a mission to Dresden, Germany…they spaced the air drill which was three miles away from a train depot,” he said. “Then they would fly about 56-Mustangs going in a circle” to take out the enemy. Most Mustangs did about three rounds on average, he said, adding that three airships were lost because they were flying too high.

 

In all, Raymond flew 54 missions before completing his service in August 1945 and leaving with the rank of First Lieutenant.

 

Back to the home front

Raymond returned to Irvington and quickly settled back into civilian life. He took a job as a switch operator with PG&E at a new substation in the Irvington area. He stayed with the utility company for more than 34 years before retiring at age 58.

 

On January 12, 1947, Raymond married Arletha, whom he met at a dance in San Jose. They had three children and were married 70 years when Arletha died in 2007. Eldest son Steven, 71, and daughter Linda, 69, now live in Southern California and youngest son, Jeff, 59, shares the family home with his father in Irvington.

 

Raymond described his father’s milestone 100th birthday in 2019 as a low-key, family affair with cards, visits and telephone calls. However, when the 101st birthday rolled around Steven contacted Veterans of Foreign Wars posts in Pleasanton, Hayward and Hacienda Heights and asked them to send birthday cards. “He was astonished,” the younger Raymond said about his father’s reaction.

 

Age doesn’t seem to have slowed Raymond down much. “He makes his own food, eats well and takes care of himself and he walks around the block every day,” his son said, adding that he recently passed a driving test and still drives around town to shop. For the past 20 years one of Raymond’s hobbies has been working in his garage on open crankcase engines and restoring them to full functioning pieces of equipment.

 

During the past century, Raymond has lived through many monumental national and world events including the Great Depression, World War II, a presidential assassination, the Apollo moon landings and the start of the digital age. When asked how his father is facing lifestyle changes brought about by the 2020 coronavirus pandemic, Raymond said his father’s reaction to such things is typically low-key, “He would say you have to adapt and go with the flow, but be prepared; it’s less stressful.”

 

 

Editorial

Country Roads

 

Country roads, take me home

To the place I belong

West Virginia, mountain mama

Take me home, country roads

 

Take Me Home, Country Roads, released as a single record by John Denver in 1971, captured yearnings for a return to a less complex “yesterday”. Writers Bill Danoff, Taffy Nivert, and John Denver evoked images and nostalgia for a familiar and comforting time and place. Wholeheartedly embraced by the State of West Virginia, the song resonates with a wide range of folks who have little or nothing to do with that state of the union, but find solace in its lyrics and mood.

 

In this time of difficult personal and economic strain due to COVID-19, the urge to return to a time and place of perceived normalcy is overwhelming. As restrictions of movement are reduced, a common response is to vacillate between fear of a resurgence and an equally compelling desire to move about freely to recapture pre-COVID-19 ambiance. As admonitions of harm if previous precautions are abandoned conflict with a desire to forget it, a fertile ground for conspiracies and recriminations can be sowed with resentment and blame. However, the current situation calls for a measured, calm and rational, sustained response that endures even when everyone would prefer to slam the door on this distressful episode and move on.

 

If impulsive reactions could actually accomplish a rapid and complete solution, no one would argue with them. However, this country road is convoluted and long, with a different destination than the one left behind. The home it will lead us to is a bit different than the one we knew. Exactly what shape it will take remains poorly defined at this time, but without much doubt, although it might resemble a familiar structure, it will definitely contain many differences. The new “home” will, over time, replace models of the past. Hopefully, a better future.

 

There is nothing new in this transition except the source and rapidity of these changes. Looking back over past decades, much has been transformed by enhanced communication, technology and education. Even without a pandemic, change is a constant in our lives. It is natural to hold on to memories of familiar and comfortable – even uncomfortable – events that mark significant placeholders of our lives. These milestones of our personal compass give us direction and meaning but point toward the future as well. Vigorous denial of the process creates more obstacles before reaching the altered home at the end of the road. Frustration and angst are the result.

 

“Drivin’ down the road, I get a feelin’

That I should’ve been home yesterday, yesterday

 

So many “ifs” are sandwiched between the what, why and when, but resolution of this pandemic and the ride on our country road will, nonetheless, take time and patience.