$1 movies at Regal Theater
Regal’s “Summer Movie Express” is back in theaters featuring $1 movies all summer long. This kid-friendly festival is the perfect way to beat the heat this summer at over 340 theatres nationwide. Regal will offer two movies on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10 a.m., with a portion of the proceeds benefitting the Will Rogers Institute, which promotes and funds medical research of cardiopulmonary diseases and purchases neonatal ventilator equipment for medical facilities across the country.
“Summer Movie Express is one of the hottest annual deals Regal offers to its moviegoers. We invite people of all ages to join us for three months of fun and entertainment as we feature family-friendly blockbusters,” said Ken Thewes, Regal’s Chief Marketing Officer. “This summer program is the perfect way for families to spend quality time together while enjoying a big screen experience.”
Since 1991, Regal has hosted special summertime entertainment for families to foster a love of moviegoing in each generation. This year’s Summer Movie Express program feature a fantastic lineup of ‘G’ and ‘PG’ movies including, but not limited to Paddington 2 (PG), The Lego Movie (PG), How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (PG), and The Secret Life of Pets (PG).
For local start dates, participating theatres and a complete list of movies, please visit www.regmovies.com/promotions/summer-movie-express. Moviegoers can also stay up-to-date with Regal and theatre happenings through the Regal Facebook page and Regal mobile app. Moviegoers can program their favorite theatres and purchase tickets all from their mobile devices.
Summer Movie Express
Tuesdays & Wednesdays, Jun 11 – Sept 3
10 a.m.
Regal Cinemas
5000 Dublin Blvd., Dublin
110 Washington St., Oakland
2525 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon
Abode Services receives recognition
Article and photo submitted by Tomasa Duenas
Assemblymember Bill Quirk (D-Hayward) honored Abode Services of Fremont as the 20th Assembly District’s “2019 Nonprofit of the Year.” Abode’s executive director, Louis Chicoine, joined Quirk at the State Capitol in Sacramento for a celebratory lunch and ceremony organized by the California Association of Nonprofits.
Abode Services was founded in Alameda County in 1989 when a small group of people came together to address a growing problem with family homelessness in the Tri-City area. Since then, the organization has expanded their reach throughout Bay Area, serving more than 8,000 adults and children each year. Adobe Services’ permanent housing and supportive services programs offer individualized service plans that address needs and goals of individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
“I am proud to recognize Abode Services for the tremendous work they do year-round to end homelessness in our communities,” Quirk said. “The need to house vulnerable children and adults has never been greater than today. The high cost of living and lack of affordable housing in the Bay Area has pushed many people into homelessness.
Construction begins on second fish ladder along Alameda Creek
Submitted by Sharene Gonzales
The Alameda County Water District (ACWD) took another step forward this spring in keeping water supplies environmentally sustainable when construction started on the final of two fish ladders along Alameda Creek. The final fish ladder, fish screens and control building modifications cost $36.7 million with $11.1 secured in grants. The project will mark the completion of a larger-scale venture to restore threatened steelhead trout to the creek and secure water supplies throughout the region.
“The finish line is in sight,” said ACWD Board President James Gunther. “Collectively, these
projects mark the greatest investment the district has made in Alameda Creek. But what’s more vital, and can’t be measured in dollars and cents, is the security our customers can have knowing the work done now will pay off – future generations will benefit,” said Gunther.
A total $78 million investment in fish passage initiatives includes installation of several fish screens and re-diversion pipelines, control building modifications, two rubber dam replacements, and construction of two fish ladders. The collection spans decades of planning and construction with multi-agency partnerships and coordination including extensive work with local, state, and federal agencies.
With nearly 40 percent of ACWD’s water supply being sourced from Alameda Creek, the projects improve long-term water supply reliability while enhancing fish passage through Lower Alameda Creek. Alameda Creek and Quarry Lakes trails are expected to remain open during construction; however, temporary closures may be necessary to protect public safety. Advanced signage will be posted. To learn more current and past fish passage projects, visit www.acwd.org/fishway.
Unity is Power scholarships awarded
Submitted by Jean Ficklin
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” –Harriet Tubman
On Sunday, June 2, the African American Culture & Historical Society (AACHS) hosted their 43rd annual “Scholarship Awards Program” at Bethel Baptist Church in Union City. Scholarships range from $500 – 1,000 and are awarded to graduating high school seniors of African and African American descent who intend to pursue higher learning. The theme for 2019 is “I am because we are: unity is power.”
AACHS has been serving the African American community in the Tri-City and Hayward areas since 1974, providing cultural enrichment, and community and financial support. The group’s focus is to share their history through educational and cultural activities, as well as networking in harmony and friendship/kinship with multi-ethnic groups throughout the Bay Area.
Reverend George Gaskins of Bethel Baptist Church provided opening and closing prayers to bookend the night’s ceremonies. New Tri-City AACHS member Ms. Pepper Moore welcomed everyone to the occasion and kicked off the night’s program. Scholarship recipient from 2018, Yvette Enoru, gave a tribute to this year’s graduates. Accompanying the award ceremony were dance performances from Angel Hearts Dance Ministry and Shauntoya Robinson, and piano selections from Donovan Hodgson.
The following students received scholarships, awarded by AACHS President Darlene Green and Secretary Marian Langford:
Alexis Early, Irvington H.S
Damiughn Bradley, Newark Memorial H.S.
Endigo Coleman, Newark Memorial H.S.
Bria Deadwiler, James Logan H.S.
Leilani McDuffie, James Logan H.S.
AACHS would like to thank the Black History Supporters/Vendors, the Scholarship Committee, and all those who regularly contribute to assist them in the work that they do. The monetary and in-kind donations from supporters make it possible for them to continue to do the work that they are passionate about, and that is to serve their community and students.
To learn more about AACHS, visit their website at aachstricity.org.
Apple previews new software as it diversifies beyond iPhones
By Michael Liedtke
AP Technology Writer
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP), Jun 03 – Apple, beset by falling iPhone sales, announced upcoming changes to its phone and computer software intended to highlight its new digital services and to further position it as a defender of personal privacy.
The revisions previewed Monday during a conference in San Jose, California, included a new feature that will let people log into apps and other services with an Apple ID instead of relying on similar sign-in options from Facebook and Google – two companies that mine data to sell advertising. Apple said it won't collect tracking information about users from that service.
As part of that feature, Apple will also let users mask their true email addresses when signing into apps and services. That will involve faux email addresses that automatically forward to the user's personal email. When the next free version of the iPhone software comes out this fall, Apple is also promising to give people the option of limiting the time apps can follow their locations and prevent tracking through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi signals.
The revisions are part of Apple's ongoing attempts to separate itself from other technology giants, many of whom offer free services in exchange for personal data such as whereabouts and personal interests, which in turn fuels the advertising that generates most of their revenue. Apple, by contrast, makes virtually all its money selling devices and services, making it easier for CEO Tim Cook to embrace privacy as “a fundamental human right.”
Monday's software showcase is an annual rite that Apple holds for thousands of programmers at the end of spring. This year, however, Apple is grappling with its biggest challenge since its visionary co-founder, Steve Jobs, died nearly eight years ago.
Although still popular, the iPhone is no longer reliably driving Apple's profits the way it has for the past decade. Sales have fallen sharply for the past two quarters and could suffer another blow if China's government targets the iPhone in retaliation for the trade war being waged. Another potential problem looms for Apple. Regulatory complaints and a consumer lawsuit both question whether Apple has been abusing the power of its iPhone app store to thwart competition and gouge smaller technology companies that rely on it to attract users and sell their services.
Apple is trying to adapt by squeezing money from digital services tailored for the more than 900 million iPhones currently in use.
And the iPhone remains its marquee product. The latest version of its iPhone operating software, iOS 13, manages to offer both privacy features and a “dark mode” for the screen – a feature already available on Macs.
Apple executives also claimed that iOS 13 will open apps faster and features a new version of the Face ID system will unlock your phone 30 percent faster.
Apple Maps will get the biggest makeover of any of the company's built-in apps. Beginning with iOS 13 the maps will include granular street and place data that Apple says it collected with street and aerial footage – tactics its largest mobile app rival Google has been using for years.
Apple also unveiled several new apps for its smartwatch, including independent apps that don't rely on the iPhone in another sign of the company's determination to lessen its dependence on that product. The App Store will be available on the watch, making it possible for people to find and download apps right on their watch – expanding the availability of purchases that generate commissions for Apple.
The iPad will also get its own operating system instead of piggybacking on the iPhone software as Apple tries to cater to consumers who would like the tablet to be able to do more of the things a laptop computer can do.
In its laptop and desktop businesses, Apple is breaking up its iTunes software for computers into three apps: Apple Music, Apple Podcasts and Apple TV. Apple debuted iTunes 16 years ago to sell and manage digital music for the iPod, which paved the way for the iPhone.
Apple has already de-emphasized iTunes on the iPhone and iPad, but now it will do the same on the Mac as well later this year. iTunes will still be available on Macs using older versions of the operating system, as well on all machines running on Microsoft's Windows.
Athlete of the Month
This month’s athletes are brother and sister from Arroyo High School in San Lorenzo. Athletic Director of the San Lorenzo Dons is Andrew Waranoff. Wrestling Coaches for the Dons are Rick Barajas (Boys Head Coach), Lou Narvaez (Girls Head Coach), Rich Villegas (JV Head Coach) and Mike Saenz (Assistant Coach).
Alia Abushi
Native Californian Alia Abushi, 16, was born in Hayward on October 23, 2002. She is a Junior and is Arroyo High School’s girl Athlete of the Month. Alia started playing soccer in 7th grade, but became interested in wrestling because of her wrestling champion brother, Hussien, whom she looks up to. She likes how different the sport is for females and strategizing for matches. Alia and Hussien not only talk about upcoming matches but also practice together.
Alia is interested in Folk Style and Freestyle wrestling. Her accomplishments to date include: All American 4-time Freestyle Champion, and 3-time NCS Folk Style Champion culminating in the State 2019 Wrestling Championship.
Alia’s preparation for matches consists of eating carbs, drinking Gatorade, and listening to her music mix to focus and clear her head. Coach Lou, Coach Rick, and Coach Rich have taught her techniques and strategies.
Generational support is a family affair. Great grandparents, grandparents, Mom (Leanna), Dad (Billy, also a former high school wrestler), brothers Hussien (a champion wrestler) and Billy Jr. (converting to high school sports), and sister (Leenah, 2019 Middle School Wrestling Champion) attend every family member’s matches. Alia’s great grandparents and grandparents are known for bringing special match treats.
Alia is looking forward to college where, in addition to joining a good sports program, she will study Nursing.
Hussien Abushi
Hussien, 18, is a native Californian, born in Hayward on January 23, 2001. As a young child he had enjoyed a range of sports such as basketball, football, baseball, soccer, swimming, golf, and wrestling. In 8th grade, Hussien zeroed in on wrestling and has accomplished the following: NCS Champion, 2019 NCS 6th Place Champion (while he was injured), 2-time WACC League Champion, and 3-time WACC League Finalist.
Hussien is extremely interested in joining the Chabot College wrestling team since it is considered one of the best college wrestling programs in the State. While at college he will be majoring in Kinesiology; his goal is to help others through physical therapy.
Hussien’s coaches are Coach Rick (the head coach who has worked with him since 7th grade), Coach Lou, and Coach Rich. They have taught him to strategize, to learn from his mistake and to not beat himself up over losses and mistakes.
To prepare for his matches, he hydrates, eats peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and listens to music (rap, Elvis, Frank Sinatra, etc.) to help his clarity and focus. Repetitive practice routines prepare him for upcoming matches. With whatever free time he has, Hussien watches TV on his phone.
Hussien looks up to his father, Billy, who was a high school wrestler. He feels fortunate to have the support of his family: dad Billy and mom Leanne; sisters Alia and Leenah, and brother Billy Jr. His great grandparents and grandparents are avid supporters and attend matches on a regular basis.
Chevrolet Cruze: compact sedan’s swan song
By Steve Schaefer
The Chevrolet Cruze is a compact sedan and hatchback with an interesting history. Now, it’s at the end of its American presence, with the closing of the Lordstown, Ohio plant where it’s been made for U.S. consumption. The model’s impact is larger, as it’s been built and sold in other parts of the world – and still is.
I wasn’t planning to test a Cruze – and had never had the opportunity – but I got a chance recently when my Chevrolet Bolt EV was at the dealer for battery replacement surgery. The dealership handed me a key to a Summit White Cruze sedan rental. Although the Cruze doesn’t look much like a Bolt, it was comforting to carry an identical key in my pocket.
The Cruze started life as a Daewoo – the Korean company acquired by General Motors (GM) and that’s now known as GM Korea. The 2019 model is the second-generation design in the U.S. Interestingly, GM used GM Korea for much of the design of the Chevrolet Bolt, and the LG battery from the Bolt is Korea-sourced as well. So, Cruze and Bolt siblings both have Korean origins but are built here. The Bolt is assembled exclusively in Orion County, Michigan.
The 2019 Cruze has some visual and content updates that made it look more like its American siblings, including the larger Malibu and Impala sedans. The front fascia, grille, and headlamps are fresh; as are the taillamps and wheels. There are also new interior colors and an updated entertainment center. Offered in four levels – L, LS, LT, and Premier – the Cruze has served in the role of compact sedan that Chevy has offered for a long time. Think of the lineage – Corvair to Chevy II to Vega to Monza to Citation to Cavalier to Cobalt. It’s also related in mission and size to GM’s grand experiment of the 1990s – defunct Saturn brand.
GM’s mainstream brand has offered economical transportation in the U.S. for half a century, but none of those names remain, and now the Cruze is joining them in the automotive history books. Today, the hot property is SUV – especially compact to midsize crossovers – and Chevrolet has a bunch of them – from the tiny Trax up to the huge Suburban. It’s not hard to connect the dots. Instead of opting for the Cruze, a young family today might just go for an Equinox crossover instead.
So, how was my time with the Cruze? The interior looks well turned out, but materials are not fancy. The plastic panels are hard, but there was some cloth across part of the dash that felt nice. There is chrome sprinkled around the cabin, and plenty of styling and motion.
Mechanically, the car uses a 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. With 153 horsepower and 177 lb.-ft. of torque, and at just under a ton and a half, it’ll take you from 0 to 60 mph in 7.7 seconds. That’s not sports car territory, but you won’t feel bogged down either. You can hear the engine working, and the road is not completely insulated from the steering wheel, but overall, it’s easy to imagine driving a Cruze for years without great enthusiasm but with no complaints either.
Official EPA fuel economy ratings are 28 City, 38 Highway, 32 Combined. My three-day mostly freeway test period earned me 26.2 mpg. The EPA Green numbers are 6 for Smog and 7 for Greenhouse Gas – good for SmartWay designation. Emitting 277 grams of CO2 per mile, this is a cleaner car than many other gasoline vehicles, and not much worse than a good hybrid.
My Cruze test period included a weekend trip to Monterey – around 200 miles round trip. While the driving experience was neither silent nor luxurious, the Cruze proved capable for freeway travel and was maneuverable in town as well. There are more exciting cars around, but the overall competence explains why it has sold well for years in places such as China and Australia.
You can pick up the base Cruze L sedan for less than $20,000, including shipping, which makes it kind of a bargain. My LT test car was better equipped, and came with the $1,200 Convenience Package, which includes keyless opening front doors, power dual outside mirrors (heated), power seats, keyless start, heated front seats, rear park assist, and two safety features – Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert. Its price was a reasonable $23,795.
The Cruze has served its time and delivered what customers needed. But today, as utility vehicles rise and sedans fall in the marketplace, its time is over. If you can find one left on a Chevy lot now, it should be a fine deal.
BART Police Log
Submitted by Les Mensinger
Saturday, June 1
- At 12:24 p.m. a person identified by police as Majik Criddle, 38, of Oakland was arrested at the Union City station on an outstanding warrant from San Francisco. Criddle was taken to Santa Rita Jail.
Monday, June 3
- At 8:13 a.m. a man identified by police as Derick Wright, 54, of San Francisco was arrested at the Warm Springs/South Fremont station on suspicion of obstructing an officer. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Tuesday, June 4
- At 4:42 a.m. a man identified by police as John McFarland, 28, of San Francisco and a woman identified by police as Aubrey Crowder, 19, of Hayward were arrested at the Bay Fair station in San Leandro on suspicion of robbery, criminal conspiracy and receiving stolen property. Both were booked at Santa Rita Jail.
California governor backs bill expanding racing board powers
AP Wire Service
LOS ANGELES (AP), May 30 – Gov. Gavin Newsom is supporting a state Senate bill that would give the California Horse Racing Board authority to quickly suspend a meet license to protect the health and safety of horses or riders.
The announcement Thursday comes amid deaths of 26 horses at Santa Anita since Dec. 26.
Newsom says in a statement that the horse fatalities are unacceptable.
The legislation by Sen. Bill Dodd would allow the board to immediately suspend a license without the usual legal notice of at least 10 days.
The track has instituted various reforms due to the deaths, which have involved injuries during training or racing resulting in euthanasia.
Santa Anita's current meet ends June 23. On Nov. 1-2, it will host the Breeders' Cup, the biggest two-day event in U.S. horse racing.
Takes from Silicon Valley East
Advancing Silicon Valley Innovation
Silicon Valley companies now have a powerful resource in their backyard to help them navigate local, national, and global regulatory policies, as well as risk management and safety issues. Global safety science company UL recently opened its newly expanded Silicon Valley Laboratory for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and wireless testing in Fremont. This facility is the largest of its type in North America and a significant addition to the region’s innovation ecosystem. We spoke with Ghislain Devouge, global vice president and general manager, consumer technology at UL, about critical challenges entrepreneurs and engineers face and what UL’s new facility brings to the table.
Q: What are some of the challenges that manufacturers face in terms of product safety testing and certification?
A: Technology regulations change frequently, meaning that manufacturers may have to conduct new testing even if their products are already on the market. Additionally, manufacturers who add wireless capability to existing products for (Internet of Things) IoT and medical applications must meet the complex and varied wireless regulatory requirements in their intended markets.
Q: How does UL help Silicon Valley companies tackle those challenges?
A: In a nutshell, UL addresses safety testing and certification for our clients in the automotive, medical device, lighting, appliance, information technology equipment, and IoT device sectors. We apply state-of-the-art testing technology and objective authority to help engineers and entrepreneurs determine that their products comply with safety requirements established in the applicable standards.
Q: How does the new facility fit into the Silicon Valley innovation ecosystem?
A: The innovation happening in Silicon Valley is unlike any other place in the world. Companies are continually inventing world-changing products and solutions. They want to make sure these innovations are safe and can fulfill their market promise. That’s where we come in – the expanded facility equips us to better support Silicon Valley companies, fast-track their project fulfillment, and allows us to service a more diverse range of products.
For example, the multi-million dollar expansion adds a 39,000-square-foot building to the existing campus. The facility now spans a total of 178,900 square feet, representing one of the largest EMC testing footprints in North America, and featuring 16 specific absorption rate (SAR) systems, 10 3-meter chambers, two 5-meter chambers, and an advanced 10-meter chamber that allows the lab to test very large equipment, including automotive technologies, medical devices, such as a CT scanner and big gaming components.
Q: UL is a global company serving a diverse customer base in more than 100 countries with offices in 46 countries. What made Fremont the city of choice for this new facility?
A: UL’s Fremont campus specializes in helping manufacturers prepare their product for testing and understanding and meeting the necessary regulatory requirements for EMC and wireless, radio performance, radio frequency (RF) exposure and safety, including 5G. As demand increases for testing and certification services, we want to provide customers with advanced testing technology and capabilities, automated data collection and immediate access to knowledgeable experts. Fremont’s highly skilled talent pool with roles ranging from electrical engineering and lab technicians to security offers exactly that. Now, employing more than 300 UL team members, we’re thrilled to help Silicon Valley clients go to market in compliance, on time, and in a cost-effective manner.
Cybersecurity: Email Security
Submitted by Lyn Leone
We all rely on and take email for granted in our day-to-day lives. Unfortunately, email is also widely used by scammers to commit individual or large-scale fraud, identity theft, or other crimes. If you are interested in learning how to keep your email safe and stay ahead of scammers, join the Castro Valley Library for a free workshop on Saturday, June 22.
This workshop is presented by Cyber-Ed, a student group at Dublin High School who is interested in promoting computer literacy and cyber safety for everyone. For more information, https://events.aclibrary.org/event/5397078?hs=a or call (510) 667-7900.
Email Security Workshop
Saturday, Jun 22
10:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave, Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
ttps://events.aclibrary.org/event/5397078?hs=a
Local Arts Organization to Operate Chabot Theater
Submitted by Paul Keim
Local arts organization, Smalltown Society, in partnership with First Presbyterian Church of Hayward, has purchased the historic Chabot Theater at 2853 Castro Valley Blvd, in an effort to preserve and build upon its historic legacy, continuing to make it a community asset for years to come.
To save the theater from being destroyed or utilized for alternate purposes, a team of local residents was formed to purchase the theater and launch a new business that will begin operation on June 4, 2019. One hundred percent of all profits from the business will be reinvested into local art and advocacy projects.
Smalltown Society will continue to operate The Chabot as a community “first-run” cinema house, while implementing some exciting new ideas and plans for the future (including enhancing both the property and schedule), establishing the theater as a cultural hub in Castro Valley.
The Chabot will continue to run as normal through the summer, with an official grand opening scheduled for late 2019.
Ranch reconnects community with the charm of the outdoors
Submitted by Toshali Goel
Photos courtesty of Chaparral Ranch
In a world consumed by electronics and digital media, Woodside’s Chaparral Ranch is doing its part to bring people closer to nature. The ranch focuses on horseback riding, offering various lessons and activities for people of all age groups and experience levels.
Chaparral Ranch, originally located in Milpitas, was opened in 2009 by Susan Pennell and Shawn Mott. Mott helped found Sunol Pack station, also known as the Sunol Regional Wilderness Equestrian Riding Concession, and helped create several other Alameda County ranches. Mott and Pennell began working out of the Ed Levin park and offering trail rides and lessons, with the ranch eventually blooming into the business it is today. “It was a joint idea for both of us, just [based on] a passion for horses and working with people – children and adults,” said Pennell. “Teaching them how to have a relationship with the horses, and getting them away from the computers and phones and out into nature.”
The original Milpitas property was sold over a year ago in the fall of 2017, and the organization currently runs many of its programs in conjunction with county parks. “We do a lot of city and county contracts,” said Pennell. “We’re contracted with both San Mateo county and Santa Clara county, so now we work out of the parks for the county to service the public.” Apart from the trail rides that initially began their business, the ranch also features an expansive list of activity options for customers, including pony and beach rides, summer camps, event hosting, and scout programs.
Chaparral Ranch also serves as a stepping stone for interested but inexperienced riders, offering countless programs for children as young as two to participate in, as well as lengthy five- to six-hour rides for more experienced riders. “Most of the riders that we have have never ridden a horse before. They want to come and experience the trails, or they want to take lessons and build up their riding. They don’t have to have any experience – you can be a beginner and have never been on a horse before, [the] horses are really good.” Many of the children’s programs feature several groundwork classes before the riding begins, teaching skills such as saddling horses, grooming, and safety to ensure customers feel as comfortable with the horses as possible.
Pennell was inspired by her own passion for horses, which began at an extremely young age. “I started riding when I was 5. My dad was a cowboy from South Dakota, and I’m part American-Indian, so it kind of came naturally for me. Horses have been my passion my whole life. I was in the restaurant business for a long time and I retired from that, and started coming out and riding and it [transformed] into a business.”
“It gets people out into nature,” remarked Pennell on the crucial value that outdoor activities provide to the greater community. “[People] are lucky enough to get on a horse and understand the relationship between a horse and a rider, and that it’s a partnership – it’s not just sitting on top of the horse and being there.”
Chaparral Ranch
Trail Rides:10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Thursday through Sunday
Ed Levin Park
3100 Calaveras Rd, Milpitas
(408) 726-8453
www.chaparralcorporation.com
Citizen Police Academy signups underway
Submitted by Newark PD
Citizens who want to learn about the inner workings of the Newark Police Department and how to promote community engagement are encouraged to sign up for the department’s 2019 Fall Citizen Police Academy.
Among the goals of the 11-week academy is to promote an increased awareness of an effective police force through community partnership. During the academy, participants will be exposed to many aspects of police work and will learn about the laws, procedures and policies that govern law enforcement. The idea is to foster lively and informative discussions about issues facing the community, police department and the City of Newark.
Those applying for the Citizen Academy must meet several eligibility requirements:
- Be age 21 or older
- Live or work in Newark
- Have no prior felony or serious misdemeanor convictions
- Be willing to undergo a background check
- Must attend all class meetings
- Not be a prior Newark CPA graduate
Classes will meet 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. Wednesdays, August 21 through October 30 at 37101 Newark Blvd., Newark. There is no participation fee.
For more details about the academy, or to download an application, visit the City of Newark website at www.newark.org, then type “Fall Citizen Police Academy Enrollment” into the search box and follow the prompts. Applications must be received by Friday, July 12. For details, call Beverly Ryans at (510) 578-4352 or send an email to beverly.ryans@newark.org.
Newark Citizen Police Academy
Wednesdays, Aug 21 – Oct 30
5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Newark Police Dept.
37101 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 578-4352
www.newark.org
Application deadline: July 12, 2019
Learn to craft a winning personal statement
Submitted by Dawn Balestreri
College-bound students will have a chance to get a head start this summer with writing a personal statement for fall college applications at the Castro Valley Library. All UC schools and most private colleges require a personal statement as a major part of their admission criteria.
A class is set for Saturday, June 29 that will provide students and parents with tips for completing the paperwork for college applications and scholarships with a focus on writing a winning personal statement. The instructor will be Jill Barbosa, UC Berkeley graduate and National Board Certified Teacher.
The one hour class will start at 10:30 a.m. Admission is free, but advance reservations are requested and can be made by visiting the library’s website at www.aclibrary.org or by calling (510) 667-7900.
College application help
Saturday, Jun 29
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Emphasis on writing a personal statement
Castro Valley Library, 3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
www.aclibrary.org
Advance registration requested
Free
Five bills to address student loan debt
Submitted by Natalie Edelstein
On June 4, Rep. Swalwell (CA-15) introduced a five-bill legislative package to alleviate many of the challenges borrowers encounter within our student loan system. As students around the country graduate from high school and college, many are encountering the realities of student loan debt for the first time. Student loan debt consistently ranks as one of the highest concerns for millennials, and with these five bills we are one step closer to a barrier and debt free future for students across the country.
“This package of bills addresses some of the fundamental flaws in our borrowing system,” said Swalwell. “For too many Americans, college is not working the way it is supposed to. Getting an education should not cost you your livelihood, and these bills will help address the growing student debt crisis, affecting more than 42 million borrowers in the United States.”
Specifically, these bills address the following issues:
- Strengthening Loan Forgiveness for Public Servants: Enhances the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which offers student loan forgiveness to teachers, police officers, public health workers and others who dedicate their careers to public service. Borrowers would receive loan forgiveness in proportion to their years of public service.
- STEM K to Career Act: Offers federal student loan relief to STEM teachers and provides tax credits to certain employers who work to provide internships or apprenticeships in the STEM field. It also amends the Federal Work Study program to offer more STEM opportunities.
- Fairness in Forgiveness Act: Allows current and former longtime workers at all 16 privately operated Department of Energy national laboratories to seek forgiveness of their federal student loans under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
- Student Loan Interest Deduction Act: Doubles tax deductions for student loan interest (from $2,500 to $5,000) and eliminates income phase-outs that prevent people who live in high-cost areas from reaping the benefits.
- Know Your Repayment Options Act: Directs the Department of Education to inform all federal student loan borrowers of all their repayment options on a yearly basis, with specific information for each individual.
For more information or to view the full text of each bills, visit https://swalwell.house.gov/issues/education-and-student-loans
Dear EarthTalk: I’ve heard that many household cleaners contain toxic ingredients that can pollute my indoor environment. How do I avoid such chemicals and can you suggest any safer alternatives?
— M. Sharp, Las Vegas, Nevada
It’s true that many common household cleaning products contain synthetic chemicals that can make the inhabitants of your home sick. The non-profit Environmental Working Group (EWG) looked into the ingredients lists of more than 2,000 cleaning supplies commonly available on store shelves across the country and found that hundreds of them contain substances linked to serious health problems.
“A large and growing body of evidence links frequent use of many ordinary cleaning supplies at home or on the job with development of asthma and other respiratory problems,” reports EWG. Furthermore, many cleaning products contain carcinogenic elements like 1,4-dioxane and formaldehyde. Still others can cause chemical burns, allergic reactions or other irritations upon exposure to the skin.
“Despite these health concerns, cleaning product labels often do not give consumers enough information about their ingredients to allow people to make informed decisions on which ones are safer and which ones might harm their health,” adds EWG. To fill the void, EWG launched its “Guide to Healthy Cleaning” to point consumers toward products made from natural ingredients that won’t make us sick.
This free online database provides short reviews and letter grades regarding the eco-friendliness of thousands of cleaning products. Among the dozens of products scoring an “A” grade are: Meliora’s Unscented Soap Flakes (general cleaning), Nature Clean Automatic Dishwasher Pacs (dishwasher detergent), Aura Cacia Arometherapy Mist (air freshening), MamaSuds Toilet Bombs (toilet bowl cleaner), Aspen Clean Kitchen Cleaner (kitchen disinfectant), Attitude Laundry Detergent (laundry soap) and BuggyLOVE Organic No-Wash Stain Remover (carpet and upholstery cleaner).
If you are a “do-it-yourselfer” you can make your own all-natural cleaning formulations for a small fraction of the cost of what you would pay for any manufactured name brand’s version of the same thing. National Geographic suggests that a 1:1 mix of distilled white vinegar and water in a spray bottle is all you need to clean stovetops, countertops, backsplashes, porcelain and ceramic tile, and that you can dissolve mineral deposits at the base of faucets by wrapping the offending areas in a vinegar-soaked rag for a few minutes and then wiping clean. Meanwhile, freshening indoor air without compromising indoor air quality is as simple as wringing out a towel soaked in vinegar and whirling it around the room.
If bad smells are coming up from the bowels of your sink, pour a 1:1 mix of baking soda and vinegar (about a quarter-cup of each) into the drain and then once the ensuing bubbles dissipate, flush with hot water. You can even avoid the nasty smell and chemical exposure inherent in using oven cleaning formulations by doing it yourself with an 8-hour, on-the-hour application of hot water and baking soda on oven splatter spots. It literally costs pennies to clean your house without any chemical exposure. With so many good all-natural, inexpensive options to choose from nowadays, why would anyone in their right mind pay the big bucks for name-brand, toxin-laden cleaners anymore?
EarthTalk is produced by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss for the nonprofit EarthTalk. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk.org.
Park It
By Ned MacKay
Mother’s Day was on May 12; it’s Dad turn on Sunday, June 16 and the East Bay Regional Park District has several Father’s Day activities planned.
Garin Regional Park in Hayward will stage a “Father’s Day Adventure,” featuring a wilderness skill and a Stone Age activity. Your host is naturalist Dino Labiste.
From 10 a.m. to 12 noon, Labiste will conduct a clinic on how to start a fire without matches or lighters, using a hand drill, or solar power. From 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. it’s atlatl time, for ages 8 and older; first watch a demonstration on how to create a Paleolithic stone point, then try your skill at hitting a target, using a dart-throwing atlatl.
Garin Regional Park is at the end of Garin Avenue, off Mission Boulevard. Both programs are free; there’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. For information, call (510) 544-3220.
“Father’s Day Fishing” is the theme of a free program from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Crown Beach in Alameda. Learn about some famous fish dads, then go fishing with your kids. Adults who are fishing must have a day or annual fishing license. Kids ages 15 and under can fish for free. Fishing gear is provided.
Registration is required as space is limited. To register and for more information, call (888) 327-2757, select option 2 and refer to program number 25139.
If you can’t make the atlatl clinic at Garin Regional Park, there’s one scheduled from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Tilden Nature Area near Berkeley with naturalist Anthony Fisher. Before that, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Fisher will lead a variety of games traditional with California Native Americans.
Both programs are free; for both programs meet at Tilden’s Environmental Education Center, north end of Central Park Drive. For information and directions, call (510) 544-2233.
Night owls will enjoy “Evening in the Wild West End,” a steep and rugged 6-mile hike from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, June 15 at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch, led by naturalist Kevin Dixon. The group will look for owls and other wildlife as the moon rises over the parkland. Dixon’s hike is for ages 10 and older and registration is required. Call (888) 327-2757, select option 2, and refer to program number 25057.
Owls are also the topic of a program from 11 a.m. to 12 noon on Sunday, June 16 at Black Diamond Mines, led by naturalist Eddie Willis. By dissecting owl pellets, you can learn what the birds have been eating. Meet Willis near the parking lot at the end of Somersville Road, 3½ miles south of Highway 4. Black Diamond Mines has a parking fee of $5 per vehicle when the kiosk is staffed. For information, call (888) 327-2757, ext. 2750.
Saturday, June 15 is Railroad Adventure Day at Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont. Visitors can take a ride on the narrow gauge train and learn the history of the original railroad that ran through the farm. The train is operated by Society for the Preservation of Carter Railroad Resources, a nonprofit organization. Unlimited train rides are included in the park admission fee – $6 for adults 18 and older, $5 for seniors 62 and older, $4 for children ages 4 through 17, and free for ages 3 and under. Ardenwood recreates a 19th century farming estate with domestic animals, farming demonstrations, and tours of the historic Patterson House. The park is at 34600 Ardenwood Boulevard, just north of Highway 84. For details, call (510) 544-2797.
Father’s Day, Mother’s Day, or every day, there’s always something to do in the regional parks. Check out the website www.ebparks.org.
Editorial
Reflections
This is the time of year that the frantic activity of graduation ceremonies and transitions is mirrored by a change in seasons. With relief from the pressures of ending a school year and emergence into longer, warm days that invite vacations and leisure pursuits, comes a pause that can conjure personal and collective introspection. As with students who can review past accomplishments and look forward to new challenges, ventures and opportunities within their cadre or on their own, this time for reflection can also apply to our own social and political communities.
City councils are currently in the process of reviewing and adopting Annual Budgets and Capital Improvement Programs that guide use of tax and grant monies received. Much time and effort has been expended preparing these documents and, although a bit overwhelming if considered in a single review, there are many parts that can hold particular interest to almost everyone who lives and/or works in the area. If you care about housing, safety, transportation, shopping, street repairs, solvency, growth, environment and a host of other factors that affect daily living, then this is the document for you. Similar to a personal budget and plan for future expenditures, this is an outline of how your money will be spent in the current year and beyond. Income and expenses, although on a larger scale than a typical family, are remarkably similar.
Families have basic needs that must be met for survival no matter what the economic circumstance. If possible, we use our money as wisely as possible to meet those needs and have a bit left over for intermittent or discretionary expenses – car repairs, holidays, vacations, college, employment changes, etc. A critical component for our future security is a rainy-day fund to make sure that when the unforeseen happens, money is set aside to offset any shortfall. In the best of circumstances, our plans and income coincide to achieve current and future personal and financial goals. Does this always work as planned? Usually not… we need course corrections over time as do our civic organizations. The process of review is not only a good thing in our personal lives, but so important for our collective welfare that cities, counties and governments are required to review this on a regular basis in public documents and presentations.
Not only do these documents let the public know how money is spent, but reveal the structure, goals and standards of the organization as well. Past performance and comparisons to future use of monies and personnel is discussed in an understandable manner. Even if financial documents are not your interest, the overview portions of these voluminous reports minimize detailed charts and graphs, summarizing in relatively few pages. For accountancy-minded individuals, detailed analysis of Operating Budgets and Capital Improvement Programs are a delight, but for the rest of us, the overview contained within them succinctly reflects a sense of purpose and serious introspection of the resources used to operate our communities.
Now might be a good time to not only reflect on personal circumstances, but our civic security and comfort as well.
Education Corner: call for submissions
Dear Fellow Educators:
The Tri-City Voice is offering to publish human interest stories of the classroom in its Education Corner. We want to show what teaching and administrating and staffing are truly like, for public school education is generally not well understood by the public. Many seem to think educators have it easy with our vacations and breaks. Most have no idea what it takes to manage and teach 150 to 200 teenagers a day, or to attempt to educate in multiple subjects one set of students for a year, the pain as well as the pleasure.
We want well written vignettes or stories based on the classroom, of approximately 800 words, preferably less. We all have our favorite stories: the humorous ones, the failures, the successes, the drama, the issues. Please, no political harangues, no personal vendettas, and no information that might leave you vulnerable to legal action. Submit via email to jameslecuyer@yahoo.com along with your name, present city, present or former position, phone number, and email address. We will not include email addresses in our published work, and will contact you beforehand if we print your story.
Jim LeCuyer,
English Teacher (San Francisco High School of the Arts, Oakland Tech)
Fremont
Founder Branding – A Critical Success Factor for Entrepreneurs
Asok Chatterjee
In the business world we are all familiar with the concept of branding as related to companies, organizations. It captures what an outsider thinks of them in the first blush. In other words, branding tells what a company stands for. However, how does an entrepreneur, who perhaps is only at the starting gate with nothing but a great idea, or perhaps only a concept of a product, brand her idea, or his concept? For him and her, it is critical to impress a potential investor to attract funding. It is critical to impress suitable talented individuals to come and work for this startup and not to be lured away to some other.
The answer to the above challenge is a suitably developed personal branding of the founder. Simply stated, how does the audience view, perceive the qualities, capabilities, track record of the person who is at the starting gate. This branding concept is distinctly different from organizational branding, and clearly needs to be understood by all entrepreneurs in order to have a chance to be successful.
The Fremont Chapter of the global platform for entrepreneurs, called Startup Grind, invited Ms. Irene Koehler on June 6th to share her thoughts on the aptly named topic ‘Common Founder Branding Mistakes and How to Fix Them Today.’ Irene is a well-known social media marketing and personal branding expert. She also is an Adjunct Professor of Social Media Marketing at San Francisco State University.
Personal branding addresses the important issue of how one wants others to see in herself, what others say when she leaves the room. A potential investor typically takes the first step of finding ‘what’s out there’ about an aspiring entrepreneur by Googling him or her. And so, the social media information needs to show linkage between one’s past, one’s capabilities and one’s vision for the future.
Information that helps create a positive branding typically includes attributes such as honesty, transparency, and ability to work as a team. In the social media, an entrepreneur needs to emphasize past results and accomplishments that added value, rather than a simple listing of impressive sounding corporate positions held in the past. Willingness to share the spotlight with others is always a sure way to brand one as a generous individual.
Personal branding makes sense only when it is believable. Even past failures may be a useful tool if the information emphasizes on the learnings from those experiences.
Koehler’s concluding advice to the aspiring entrepreneurs was to distinguish between generally shared non-targeted information such as those on a Facebook page, and the information given out only to a more narrowly targeted audience. It is also helpful to understand the difference between individual’s skills (such as sales, public service, leadership) and that person’s characteristics (such as fearless, innovative).
As always, the well-attended Startup Grind session moderated by Gaytri Khandelwal generated spirited discussions. Irene Koehler’s interactive style of engagement helped create a virtuous learning environment.
Startup Grind
https://www.startupgrind.com/fremont/
Fremont Police Log
Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont PD
Wednesday, May 29
- Officers responded to a report about two construction workers arguing in the 39000 block of Blacow Road. One brandished a hammer and began following the victim around the worksite. Officers arrested the 30-year-old man on suspicion of criminal threats and brandishing a weapon.
- Three auto burglaries were reported on the parking lot at 46100 Block of Warm Springs Blvd. (Marina Market); two on Foxtail Terrace; three in the parking lot at 3902 Washington Blvd. (Safeway); one in the parking lot at 43800 Osgood Road (Fry’s Electronics).
Thursday, May 30
- Officers responded to a report of a woman brandishing a meat cleaver at two people in a residence on the 4200 block of Chetwood Ave. Officer Montojo arrested the 57-year-old woman on suspicion of brandishing a weapon. She was taken to Santa Rita Jail.
Friday, May 31
- An auto burglary was reported in the 3600 block of Oxford Common. Loss was a MacBook, Sony PlayStation and clothing. No suspect was found; an investigation is continuing.
- Officer Gonzales responded to a report about a person acting strangely and refusing to leave Cloverleaf Bowl on Fremont and Grimmer boulevards in the Irvington district. A 22 year old man was determined to be under the influence of drugs and in possession of drugs and paraphernalia. He was arrested and booked at Santa Rita Jail.
Saturday, June 1
- Field Training Officer Tran and Officer Pena arrested a 38-year-old woman on suspicion of felony hit and run after she rear ended a vehicle at Paseo Padre Parkway and Siward Drive and injuring another driver. She initially fled the scene and crashed into a fence off Ridgewood Drive, but was caught by authorities.
- Officers responded to a report where a neighbor on Hyde Park Drive saw two people armed with handguns approach a person sitting in a parked vehicle smoking marijuana. The two suspects stole three suitcases from the person in the vehicle and fled on foot toward Rix Park. The person in the vehicle gave officers conflicting and confusing statements about the incident. The first suspect described as a black man, 27-years-old, with tight dreads, wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and armed with a semi-automatic pistol. The second suspect was described as a Puerto Rican man, in his 20s, with a ponytail, wearing a black shirt covering his face and armed with a gun. The case was investigated by Officer Tucker.
Monday, June 3
- Officer Trzewieczynski attempted to make a traffic stop on a bicyclist in the area of Stevenson Boulevard and I-880, but the bicyclist fled toward Albrae Street. Trzewieczynski located the bicyclist behind the World Furniture Store and arrested him. The 38-year-old man was arrested and booked on suspicion of resisting arrest and possession of a methamphetamine pipe.
Tuesday, June 4
- At 12:30 a.m., Officer Degenstein and Officer Paiva responded to a report of a disturbance on the 500 block of Morrison Canyon Road where they found a shirtless bloodied male who had been robbed of his cell phone, money and house keys. Paramedics were summoned and he was transported to a hospital to be treated for significant, but not life-threatening injuries. Believing that the suspect might be heading to the victim’s home to burglarize it, officers called for backup. Soon, officers spotted a vehicle with its daylight running lights on. Officer Carter then saw a female run from the residence area into a waiting vehicle. The vehicle almost hit Carter’s vehicle as it drove away with officers following it onto Argonaut Way toward Mowry Avenue.
The driver of the suspect vehicle eventually lost control and hit the curb at Mowry and Blacow Road. The male driver and female passenger fled on foot into the Carrington Apartments. Officers set up a perimeter and a drone and K9 was brought to the scene. The female was eventually found on an upstairs landing and the male was found hiding in brush. Both 21-year-old suspects were arrested on suspicion of robbery, conspiracy, felony battery, evading arrest, and resisting arrest.
Wednesday, June 5, 2019
- Officer L. Kennedy was seated in her patrol vehicle on the west end of Stevenson Boulevard when she was approached by a male on foot. The male appeared to be in need of some assistance but there was a language barrier. After numerous attempts via the Language Line to determine his language, it was determined the male did not speak any of the languages referenced. After Officer De Stephano arrived to assist, the male attacked him. After several minutes of fighting, officers were able to place the male into handcuffs. He was taken to Washington Hospital for medical clearance before being booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Fremont City Council
June 4, 2019
Consent Calendar:
- Amend Master Fee Schedule to conform to AB 1379 requiring $4 annual fee with City Business Tax.
- Authorize Memoranda of Understanding with Alameda County Health Care Services Agency to 1) Medi-Cal Administrative activities and 2) Targeted Case Management services.
- Approve Investment Policy.
- Approve final map and agreements for construction of public and private street improvements at 39009 Cindy Street.
- Approve vacation of a portion of Liberty Street near Walnut Avenue. Set public hearing for July 2, 2019.
- Authorize Aqua Adventure Waterpark maintenance and repairs with National Aquatic Services.
Ceremonial Items:
- Proclaim May 17, 2019 as Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Gliomas Awareness Day. DIPG is an aggressive, deadly brain tumor. Parents of Ronil Mehta who passed away due to DIPG accepted the proclamation.
- Proclaim June 2019 as Pride Month. Representatives of TransVision of Tri-City Health Center, Fremont Human Relations Commission and LGBTQ community were present to receive the proclamation. Vice Mayor Raj Salwan asked his fellow councilmembers to consider flying the Rainbow Flag outside City Hall.
Announcements:
- A special Housing Navigation Center work session will be held at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18 to share information, establish goals but not to select a final location of the center.
- A Citizen Workshop to assist in the naturalization process was held June 1st.
- The Fremont Community Services Department was awarded a $10,000 grant from Seagate Technology to provide STEM-based programs in after school and summer offerings.
Public Communications:
- Members of City of Fremont Employees Association asked for a fair Cost of Living Adjustment to wages.
- Niles District community members requested that the council locate a transitional Navigation Center for homeless people in an area more suitable than Niles.
- Community members asked for changes to recent striping of Rancho Arroyo Parkway.
- Comments about location of Stratford School close to Tri-City Rock on Osgood Road.
Scheduled Items:
- Public Hearing of proposed Operating Budget.
- Public Hearing of proposed Capital Improvement Program.
Other Business:
- Presentation on formation of a Mobility Commission. Comments regarding use of working groups to expand outreach. Approval of ordinance in September 2019; recruit and appoint commission members in Fall 2019 and begin meetings January 2020.
- Receive staff response to Councilmember Bacon referral regarding 4th of July parade funding. Council voted to contribute $25,000 annually as an official sponsor.
Mayor Lily Mei Aye
Vice Mayor Raj Salwan Aye
Vinnie Bacon Aye
Rick Jones Aye
Teresa Keng (District 1) Aye
Jenny Kassan (District 3) Aye
Yang Shao (District 4) Aye
Huawei app to be stripped of Google services after U.S. ban
By Frank Bajak and Joe Mcdonald
Associated Press
May 20
Huawei could quickly lose its grip on the No. 2 ranking in worldwide cellphone sales after Google announced it would comply with U.S. government restrictions meant to punish the Chinese tech powerhouse.
The Trump administration's move, which effectively bars U.S. firms from selling components and software to Huawei, ups the ante in a trade war between Washington and Beijing that partly reflects a struggle for global economic and technological dominance.
Google said it would continue to support existing Huawei smartphones, but future devices will not have its flagship apps and services, including maps, Gmail and search. Only basic services would be available for future versions of the Android operating system on Huawei's smartphones.
Though the U.S. Commerce Department grants exceptions, the ban announced last week on all purchases of U.S. technology is thus apt to badly hurt Huawei, analysts say.
Washington claims Huawei poses a national security threat, and its placement on the so-called Entity List by the Trump administration last week is widely seen as intended to persuade resistant U.S. allies in Europe to exclude Huawei equipment from their next-generation wireless networks, known as 5G.
“This is major crisis for Huawei. Instead of being the world's largest handset manufacturer this year, it will struggle to stay two, but probably fall behind,” analyst Roger Entner said. “How competitive is a smartphone without the most well-known and popular apps?”
Huawei will likely use its own, stripped-down version of Android, whose basic code is provided free of charge by Google. But the Mountain View, California, company said Huawei would not be authorized to use other Google software and services if the sanctions go forward as announced.
Google could seek exemptions but would not comment on whether it planned to do so.
Entner, founder of Recon Analytics, said Google itself won't feel a large direct impact, “as consumers will shift to other Android devices. The biggest concern is not to be caught in the crossfire of two governments.”
Gartner analyst Tuong Nguyen said 48 percent of Huawei's phone shipments last year were outside of China and the company will need to scramble not to lose market share.
Samsung led global smartphone sales in the first quarter of this year with a 23.1 percent share. Huawei was second with 19 percent, followed by Apple at 11.7 percent, according to IDC.
Huawei's smartphone sales in the U.S. are tiny – and the Chinese company's footprint in telecommunications networks is limited to smaller wireless and internet providers – so any impact on U.S. consumers of a Google services cutoff would be slight.
Hardware suppliers led by Qualcomm, Broadcom and Intel would also be forced to halt shipments to Huawei under the Commerce Department rule, which requires all U.S. technology sales to the company to obtain U.S. government approval unless exceptions are made.
The global risk assessment outfit Eurasia Group said the Commerce Department was expected to set a 90-day grace period this week. Department officials did not immediately return phone calls and emails seeking comment.
In a report, Eurasia Group said that if the Commerce Department sanction process helps persuade European carriers to shun Huawei equipment, a full ban on purchases of U.S. technology products and services could be avoided.
Google, a unit of Alphabet Inc., said in a statement late Sunday that it was complying with and “reviewing the implications” of the requirement for export licenses for technology sales to Huawei, which took effect Thursday. “For users of our services, Google Play and the security protections from Google Play Protect will continue to function on existing Huawei devices,” it added.
The U.S. government says Chinese suppliers including Huawei and its smaller rival, ZTE Corp., pose an espionage threat because they are beholden to China's ruling Communist Party. But American officials have presented no evidence of any Huawei equipment serving as intentional conduits for espionage by Beijing.
Huawei, headquartered in the southern city of Shenzhen near Hong Kong, reported earlier that its worldwide sales rose 19.5 percent last year over 2017 to 721.2 billion ($105.2 billion). Profit rose 25.1 percent to 59.3 billion yuan ($8.6 billion).
Huawei smartphone shipments rose 50 percent in the first three months of 2019 to 59.1 million, compared with a year earlier, while the global industry's total fell 6.6 percent, according to IDC. Shipments from Samsung and Apple both declined.
Huawei defended itself Monday as “one of Android's key global partners.” The company said it helped to develop a system that “benefited both users and the industry.”
“We will continue to build a safe and sustainable software ecosystem, in order to provide the best experience for all users globally,” the company said.
A foreign ministry spokesman, Lu Kang, said China will “monitor the development of the situation” but gave no indication how Beijing might respond.
The U.S. order took effect Thursday and requires government approval for all purchases of American microchips, software and other components globally by Huawei and 68 affiliated businesses. Huawei says that amounted to $11 billion in goods last year.
That could certainly create some collateral damage for U.S. companies.
The California chipmaker Xilinx Inc. tumbled 4 percent Monday. David Wong, an analyst with Nomura, said Xilinx has benefited from demand in next-generation, 5G technologies and “action against a major maker of communications infrastructure equipment like Huawei likely poses risk for Xilinx.”
Google's challenge to game consoles to kick off in November
By Mae Anderson
AP Technology Writer
NEW YORK (AP), Jun 06 – Google will start its Stadia streaming game service to challenge the video game industry in November – but initially only as part of a $130 bundle that includes hardware and a pass for a friend.
Google announced the service in March with few details. On Thursday, Google said it will start advance sales for the limited “Founder's Edition” bundles right away, though it isn't saying how many are available. Google won't offer stand-alone subscriptions, for $10 a month, until next year.
Stadia is Google's attempt to make traditional game consoles such as the Xbox and PlayStation obsolete.
Games are stored online, and players can pick up where they left off.
Much like movies and music, the traditional video game industry has been shifting to digital downloads and streaming.
Google to acquire data firm Looker for $2.6 billion
AP Wire Service
NEW YORK (AP), Jun 06 – Google is acquiring data analytics firm Looker for $2.6 billion cash to expand its Google Cloud business.
The company says Looker will give its cloud-computing customers more ways to use their data. The companies were already working together and share about 350 customers including Buzzfeed, Hearst and Yahoo! The deal is expected to close later this year.
Cloud computing involves companies using remote servers to house their data rather than storing things locally. Amazon, Microsoft, IBM and Alphabet Inc.'s Google are some of the biggest players in the increasingly competitive market.
The acquisition is Google Cloud CEO Thomas Kurian's first major move since he came aboard from software maker Oracle in November 2018.
Clean and green summer
Submitted by City of Hayward
Join the Keep Hayward Clean and Green Task Force as it brings its annual program of cleanup and beautification event to the Jackson Triangle neighborhood on Saturday, June 22. Online registration is available until Thursday, June 20. The public can also register in person on the day of the event. For more information, call (510) 881-7745. To register online, visit https://www.hayward-ca.gov/your-environment/get-involved/keep-hayward-clean-green-clean-ups/cleanup-beautification-schedule.
Community Cleanup
Saturday, Jun 22
8:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Online registration until 3 p.m. Thursday, Jun 20
Hayward Animal Shelter
16 Barnes Ct, Hayward
(510) 881-7745
https://www.hayward-ca.gov/your-environment/get-involved
Hayward Police Log
Submitted by Hayward PD
Thursday, June 6
- In the early morning hours officers responded to a report about a male who entered a residence on Prospect Terrace which was occupied by the homeowner and his three children. When the intruder entered the residence, the homeowner locked himself and the children in an upstairs room. Arriving officers evacuated the victims from a second story balcony while the intruder remained inside the residence and refused commands to come out. Nearby roadways were blocked for approximately two hours. Eventually, officers entered the home and took the suspect into custody. There were no injuries and an investigation is ongoing.
Friday, June 7
- At about 1:15 a.m. officers responded to a report of an armed home invasion robbery at the Lord Tennyson Apartment complex at 27241 Sleepy Hollow Ave. Witnesses reported seeing several masked men running away. Officers spotted a vehicle with no lights on fleeing the area and began a pursuit. The vehicle crashed into the front yard of a home on Buchanan Way. Officers took two people from the car into custody at the scene, but a third person fled into the neighborhood and was not immediately located. An investigation is ongoing; anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Hayward Police Department at (510) 293-7000.
Get ready to party in the street
Submitted by Hayward Chamber of Commerce
Photos by Victor Carvellas
Third Thursdays are going to be a hit with the 2019 “Downtown Hayward Street Parties” on June 20, July 18 and August 15. Bring your friends and family to enjoy live bands, food, classic car show, street entertainers, kids’ rides, Alan the Amazing, and face painters. Brews will be served in the beer garden adjacent the Bank of the West Stage.
“It says a lot about Hayward that our participants look at the street parties as a family reunion,” said Kim Huggett, president of Hayward Chamber of Commerce. “These are events that not only are family-friendly, but the coolness factor is there, too.”
On June 20, the Bank of the West Stage will feature West Coast Blues Society Caravan of All Stars, celebrating Hayward/Russell City Blues Festival. Also performing that night will be Mitch Polzak and The Royal Deuces on Bistro Patio Stage, and DJ Robert Hoffman “Club Nowhere” on Moler Cosmetology School Stage. DJ Robert Louis will entertain at Car Show Central at the Chamber of Commerce’s Main Street Stage.
The street party series is made possible through a partnership of the Downtown Hayward Improvement Association, City of Hayward and Chamber of Commerce. For more information, call (510) 537-2424 or visit https://www.hayward-ca.gov/discover/events/june-2019-downtown-hayward-third-thursday-street-party.
Hayward Street Parties
Third Thursdays: Jun 20, Jul 18 and Aug 15
5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Downtown Hayward
B St, Foothill Blvd to Watkins St, Hayward
(510) 537-2424
https://www.hayward-ca.gov/discover/events/
Hayward City Council
June 4, 2019
Presentations:
- Elder Abuse Awareness Month
Consent Calendar:
- Zoning ordinance and parking regulations related to a comprehensive update of Industrial District regulations
- Zoning ordinance to accommodate 19 single-family homes at 29080 Fairview Avenue
- Three-year agreement with Alameda County Probation Department for delinquency prevention network services provided by Hayward Police Department’s Youth
and Family Services Bureau and appropriation of $237,500 annually, for a total of $712,500
- Agreement with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. and appropriate $150,000 from Measure BB, Fund 212 for completion of Hayward Boulevard Safety Improvements
Feasibility Study
- Resolution approving an adjustment to bid process schedule for trash capture device installation on Arf Avenue
Consent Calendar passed 7-0
Work Session:
- Hayward Police Department 2018 Year-End Report. Several members of the public commented in support of an independent investigation of police shooting of Agustin Gonsalez
Legislative Business:
- Sale agreement with 37 Hayward, LLC for purchase of the City Center Tower property located at 22300 Foothill Boulevard for $5,200,000, and up to an additional $100,000 in associated costs. Item passed 7-0
Public Hearing:
- Adopt resolutions for the Consolidated Landscaping and Lighting District No. 96-1,
zones 1-16, for fiscal year 2020. Item passed 7-0
- Adopt resolutions for Maintenance District No. 1 – Storm Drainage Pumping Station
and Storm Drain Conduit – Pacheco Way, Stratford Road and Ruus Lane, for fiscal year 2020. Item passed 7-0
- Adopt resolutions for Maintenance District No. 2 – Eden Shores Storm Water Buffer
and Facilities, for fiscal year 2020. Item passed 7-0
- Consider the formation of Benefit Zone No. 17 of the Consolidated Landscaping and Lighting Assessment District No. 96-1 for the Parkside Heights Property. Item passed 7-0
- Consider the formation of Benefit Zone No. 18 of the Consolidated Landscaping and Lighting Assessment District No. 96-1 for the SoHay Properties. Item passed 7-0
Council Reports:
- Councilmember Wahab wished everyone a happy first day of Eid, the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal
Council Referrals:
- Consider an item for discussion on a future City Council agenda regarding an independent investigation into an officer-involved use of deadly force. Item passed 7-0
Mayor Barbara Halliday Aye
Sara Lamnin Aye
Francisco Zermeno Aye
Aisha Wahab Aye
Al Mendall Aye
Elisa Marquez Aye
Mark Salinas Aye
Simple preparations can help prevent home burglaries
Submitted by Newark PD
Did you know that a home burglary occurs approximately every 15 seconds in the United States? Nearly 66% of all burglaries are residential, and of those, 62% occur during the daytime, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. when no one is likely to be at home. It’s also important to know that 30% of all burglaries are classified as “unlawful entry,” meaning the burglar was able to gain entry without using force — often through an unlocked door or window.
Here are the top 10 things you can do to help prevent your home from being broken into:
- Lock your doors and windows
- If you open your window, use window stops
- Make sure valuables are not visible from windows
- Store ladders and any objects that can be used to assist in home entry in a locked shed or garage
- Keep garage doors closed and locked. If the garage doors have windows, put the garage door release cord away from those windows
- Use a home security system and a doorbell camera to deter thieves
- At night, turn your lights on and leave them on (light is a great deterrent
- Use solid wood or metal doors
- Lock your pet door so it cannot be used as a point of entry
- Do not open the door for or allow solicitors entry to your home
If someone is trying to gain access to your home or a neighbor’s home or exhibiting suspicious behavior, or you are not sure, call 911 first and tell the dispatcher your location, the address where you are, followed by the reason for calling and give a description of the behavior you are witnessing and the people involved. Finally, remember that a person’s behavior is what makes them suspicious, not what they look like.
US home prices outpaced income growth in 2018
AP Wire Service
Jun 07 13:50By Josh Boak
AP Economics Writer
WASHINGTON (AP), Jun 07 – Home prices in 2018 climbed 4.5%, while incomes grew 3.2%, according to CoreLogic real estate figures and government wage data released Friday.
The gap suggests that affordability is worsening. Still, this gap appears to be narrowing relative in much of the country as gains in average hourly earnings have risen as the unemployment rate has fallen. Meanwhile, a slowdown in homebuying since 2018 has limited price gains in real estate and improved affordability.
Across the country, there are significant variations in this trend as some markets are seeing affordability worsen and others have seen it stabilize after rapid growth.
Home prices in the Boise, Idaho area jumped 16.3%, significantly higher than the 3.7% gain in incomes. The Florida retirement community known as The Villages saw a similar trend as incomes rose 3.1% while home values increased 7.7%.
Places such as New York, Seattle and San Francisco are already pricing out residents, forcing many to stay as renters or move to cheaper cities. But in the past year, rising incomes in these areas and slowing growth in home prices has improved affordability slightly. This doesn't mean that middle-class workers can suddenly afford to buy in these communities, so much as the squeeze isn't as great as it was at the start of 2018.
A few major metro areas have seen homes prices and incomes grow roughly in sync such that there have been minimal changes in affordability, including Atlanta, Louisville and Birmingham, Alabama.
Honor Roll
Tuft’s University, Massachusetts
Spring 2019 Dean’s List
- Era Iyer, Fremont
- Radhika Joshi, Fremont
- Rosain Ozonsi, Hayward
- Aneri Parikh, Fremont
- Joshua Tso, Newark
Ohio Wesleyan University
Spring 2019 Dean’s List
- Jasmine Lew, Fremont
American International College, Massachusetts
Spring 2019 Dean’s List
- Danica Johnson, Fremont
Culver-Stockton College, Missouri
Spring 2019 Honor Roll
- Anthony Garcia, Union City
Wesleyan University, Connecticut
Spring 2019 graduates
- River Nelson, Fremont: BA, American Studies
- Alex Torres, Hayward: BA, French Studies and Mathematics
Lehigh University, Pennsylvania
Spring 2019 Master’s graduate
- Inka Leprince, Fremont: Statistics
Spring 2019 Doctoral graduate
- Yilin Wang, Hayward: Physical Therapy
Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Massachusetts
Spring 2019 Doctoral graduate
- Abhishek Mukheri, Milpitas: Computer Science
CONTINUING EVENTS:
Wednesdays, Apr 3 – Oct 9
Downtown San Leandro Farmers Market
4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, live music, 30+ vendors
Downtown San Leandro
Parrott Street between East 14th and Washington Ave.
(925) 825-9090
Sundays, Apr 14 – Jun 23
Dove Gallery Hosanna Exhibit
12 noon – 3 p.m.
Over 20 artists honor the life of Christ
Park Victoria Baptist Church
875 S. Park Victoria Dr., Milpitas
(408) 464-5011
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Apr 16 – Jun 27
Back Strength Classes $
1:45 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Stretching and strengthening exercises
Kenneth C. Aitken Center
17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 881-6738
Mondays, Apr 22 – Jun 17
Matter of Balance
12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Manage falls and increase activity levels
Fremont Senior Center
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont
(510) 790-6600
Monday – Friday, May 3 – Aug 2
Conversation, 7+1 Collective
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Paintings, sculptures, collages from eight female artists
John O'Lague Galleria
777 B Street, Hayward
(510) 538-2787
Saturdays & Sundays, May 4 – Jun 30
Wild Wonders
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Games, activities, crafts for all ages
Sunol Regional Wilderness
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3249
www.ebparks.org
Saturdays & Sundays, May 4 – Jun 30
Nature Crafts
10 a.m. – 12 noon
Get crafty and learn about the natural world
Sunol Regional Wilderness
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3249
www.ebparks.org
Sundays, May 5 – Jun 30
Animal Feeding Time
10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Discuss reptiles, observe feeding time
Sunol Regional Wilderness
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3249
www.ebparks.org
Mondays, May 14 – Dec 30
English Conversation Group
1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Practice spoken English in a friendly environment
Union City Branch Library
34007 Alvarado Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
Fridays, May 17 – Oct 25
Fremont Street Eats
5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Food trucks, beer, wine, music
Town Fair Plaza
39100 State St., Fremont
(510) 795-2244
fremontstreeteats.com
Thursday – Sunday, May 17 – Jun 15
Preston Merchant: Journalism Photography
12 noon – 5 p.m.
Indiaworld: Images of the Global Indian Diaspora
Olive Hyde Art Gallery
123 Washington Blvd., Fremont
(510) 791-4357
http://olivehydeartguild.org
1st & 3rd Tuesdays, May 21 – Aug 20
Castro Valley Street Eats
5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Food trucks, activities
Adobe Art Center
20395 San Miguel Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 881-6735
www.haywardrec.org
Thursdays & Saturdays, May 23 – Jun 27
LEAF Seedlings for Sale $
9:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Seedlings for summer and Indian veggies, flowers and herbs
LEAF C.R. Stone Garden
55 Mowry Ave., Fremont
Saturdays, May 25 – Aug 31
Campfire Program
8 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Games, songs and stories around the campfire
Anthony Chabot Campground and Park
9999 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 690-6677
(510) 544-3187
Tuesdays, May 28 – Aug 27
Practice Your Spoken English R
4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Chat session for intermediate level and up English learners
Fremont Main Library Fukaya Room A
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 574-2063
Saturdays, Jun 1 – Jun 29
Family Yoga R
1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Outdoor session for the whole family. Ages 5-10
Alviso Environmental Education Center
1751 Grand Blvd., Alviso
(408) 262-5513
https://familyyogasummer.eventbrite.com
Thursday – Saturday, Jun 1 – Jul 13
Student Exhibition
6/4: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. & 7/2: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Students display their work
Adobe Art Center
20395 San Miguel Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 881-6735
Monday – Thursday, Jun 4 – Jun 13
Homework Help
3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Students K-6 get help with their homework
Fremont Main Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1421
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday, Jun 8 – Jun 22
Immigrants Are US
Mon 5 p.m. -10 p.m.; Tues/Thurs 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.; Sat by appt
Photography and stories of courage and resilience
PhotoCentral
1099 E St., Hayward
(510) 881-6721
Friday – Sunday, Jun 14 – Jun 23
Shakespeare Abridged $
7 p.m.
Comedy sketches based on Shakespeare
Twining Vine Winery
16851 Cull Canyon Rd., Castro Valley
plethos.org
Friday – Sunday, Jun 14 – Jun 30
As We See It
11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Mixed media and sculpture from Sun Gallery staff
Sun Gallery
1015 E St., Hayward
(510) 581-4050
Mondays & Wednesdays, Jun 17 – Jul 24
Jenny Lin Program
6:45 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
For orchestra, band and chorus students
Proctor Elementary
17520 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
jennylinfoundation.org
Monday – Thursday, Jun 17 – Aug 8
Mr. Hirsch's Tie Collection
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Eclectic tie collection from retiring Ohlone math teacher
Ohlone College Newark Campus
39399 Cherry St., Newark
(510) 742-2300
Mondays, Jun 17 – Jun 24
Heart to Heart Workshop R
6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
FUSS and Stanford Children's Health session for boys ages 10-12
Patterson Elementary School
35521 Cabrillo Dr., Fremont
(510) 793-0420
Mondays & Wednesdays, Jun 17 – Aug 8
Beginning Technology Skills R
1:00 p.m. – 4:20 p.m.
Free noncredit course on Microsoft Office
Ohlone College Newark Campus
39399 Cherry St., Newark
(510) 742-2300
www.ohlone.edu/noncredit
Friday nights
Laugh Track City $
8 p.m.
Fast-paced improv comedy show
Made Up Theatre
4000 Bay St, Suite B, Fremont
(510) 573-3633
Saturday nights
8 p.m.
Audience-inspired improv play
Made Up Theatre
4000 Bay St, Suite B, Fremont
(510) 573-3633
THIS WEEK
Monday, Jun 10
Outdoor Discoveries: Geology Rocks R
10:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Playful science for homeschool kids ages 4 – 8
Sunol Regional Wilderness
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3249
www.ebparks.org/register
Tuesday, Jun 11
Newark Rotary Meeting
12 noon
Speaker Nadia Garacia from Grateful Garment Project
Doubletree Newark-Fremont Hilton Hotel
39900 Balentine Dr., Newark
(510) 490-8390
Thursday, Jun 13
Increase Your Financial IQ
7 p.m.
Arvind Ven talks about financial planning for families
Milpitas Library
160 North Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
www.sccl.org
Thursday, Jun 13
Fitness at Fremont Main
2 p.m.
Yoga with Azra. Bring a mat, water, towels
Fremont Main Library Fukaya Room A
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 574-2063
www.aclibrary.org
Thursday, Jun 13
Toddler Time $
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Celebrating Eric Carle, author of “The Very Hungry Caterpillar”
Hayward Area Historical Society Museum
22380 Foothill Blvd., Hayward
(510) 581-0223
www.haywardareahistory.org
Friday, Jun 14
Visiones de Espana $R
7:15 p.m.
Works from North African and European cultures
Old Mission San Jose
43300 Mission Blvd., Fremont
(510) 659-6158
www.musicatmsj.org/tickets
Friday, Jun 14
Paint Night at Snorre Lodge $
6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Paint the Aurora Borealis Lights with Sons of Norway (wine, dinner included)
Hill and Valley Clubhouse
1808 B St., Hayward
(650) 245-8473
https://allevents.in/org/sons-of-norway-snorre-lodge-hayward
Friday, Jun 14
Lost In Space $
7 p.m. & 8:30 p.m.
Experience the thrill of a NASA mission. Wine, beer, snacks provided. Ages 21+
Chabot Space & Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7373
www.chabotspace.org
Friday, Jun 14
Unveiling of The Solacii
4:30 p.m.
Newest art installation from Rotational Public Art Program
Downtown Fremont
Capitol Ave. between Fremont Blvd. & State St.
Saturday, Jun 15
Railroad Adventure Day $
10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Enjoy train rides around the farm
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Saturday, Jun 15
Garden Bug Safari
12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Discover the mysterious world of bugs
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Saturday, Jun 15
Garden Chores For Kids
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Learn how to grow vegetables
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Saturday, Jun 15
Rabbit Rendezvous
10:30 a.m. – 11:0 a.m.
Learn how rabbits use their long ears to sense danger
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Saturday, Jun 15
Bike Tour of Decoto
11 a.m.
Meet at parking lot of Dry Creek/Pioneer Regional Park
Museum of Local History
190 Anza Street, Fremont
(510) 623-7907
www.museumoflocalhistory.org
Saturday, Jun 15
Community Fest 2019
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Day of intercultural festivity including music, food, games
Irvington Presbyterian Church
4181 Irvington Ave., Fremont
(510) 657-3133
www.irvingtonpres.org
Saturday, Jun 15
Comedy Shorts Night $
7:30 p.m.
“The Immigrant,” “The High Sign,” “Forgotten Sweeties,” “Leave 'em Laughing”
Niles Essanay Theater
37417 Niles Blvd, Fremont
(510) 494-1411
Saturday, Jun 15
Archeology Adventures R
1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Learn the science of archeology through hands-on activities
Coyote Hills
8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont
(510) 544-3220
1-888-327-2757
Saturday, Jun 15
Canine Capers Walk R
9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Enjoy nature trails with your dog. Ages 8+
Alameda Creek Regional Trail
Niles Staging Area, Old Canyon Rd.
(510) 544-3220
1-888-327-2757
Saturday, Jun 15
Eden Area Village Monthly Coffee
9 a.m.
Helping seniors remain in their home and engaged in community
Hayward Area Historical Society Museum
22380 Foothill Blvd., Hayward
(510) 581-0223
www.edenareavillage.org
Saturday, Jun 15
Cultural Tales of the Night $
6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Learn about local history on this 5-mile hike. Adults only
Chabot Space & Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7373
www.chabotspace.org
Saturday, Jun 15
Storytime with Sara
11 a.m.
Hear her read “Interrupting Chickens”
Books on B
1014 B Street, Hayward
(510) 538-3943
www.booksonb.com
Saturday, Jun 15
Meet Author G.M. Monks
1:00 p.m.- 2:30 p.m.
Author reads from her debut novel Iola O
Books on B
1014 B Street, Hayward
(510) 538-3943
www.booksonb.com
Saturday, Jun 15
Meet Author Rosa del Duca
3 p.m.
“Breaking Cadence: One Woman's War Against the War”
Books on B
1014 B Street, Hayward
(510) 538-3943
www.booksonb.com
Saturday, Jun 15
Volunteer Orientation R
11 a.m. – 12 noon
Learn about the opportunities available
Alviso Environmental Education Center
1751 Grand Blvd., Alviso
(408) 262-5513
watershedwatchers@sfbws.com
Saturday, Jun 15
Cemetery Clean-Up and Open Day
9 a.m. – 12 noon
Bring your gloves, rakes and water
San Lorenzo Pioneer Cemetery
Corner of Usher Street & College Street, San Lorenzo
(510) 581-2516
www.haywardareahistory.org
Saturday, Jun 15
Fremont Guardians Unite Charity 5K Run/Walk $R
7 a.m.
Benefiting Special Olympics, 7 a.m. registration, 8:30 a.m. run start
Quarry Lakes
2250 Isherwood Way, Fremont
(510) 795-4895
https://fremontguardiansunite5k.itsyourrace.com
Saturday, Jun 15
Native Bee Hive Maker Class
10:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Learn about native bees, make a hive
LEAF C.R. Stone Garden
55 Mowry Ave., Fremont
FremontLEAF@gmail.com
Sunday, Jun 16
Cooking in the Country Kitchen
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Cooking with a wood-burning stove
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Sunday, Jun 16
Gorgeous Goats
10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Help with exercising and grooming the goats
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Sunday, Jun 16
Hay Harvesting
1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Ride the hay wagon and help harvest
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
www.ebparks.org
Sunday, Jun 16
Guerrero
4 p.m.
Story about the ups and downs of a boxer's life
Niles Essanay Theater
37417 Niles Blvd, Fremont
(510) 494-1411
Sunday, Jun 16
Father's Day Adventure: Fire Making
10 a.m. – 12 noon
Generate fire without matches. Ages 8+
Garin Regional Park
1320 Garin Ave., Hayward
(510) 582-2206
www.ebparks.org
Sunday, Jun 16
Father's Day Adventure: Atlatl Throwers
1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Practice hitting target with a Paleolithic dart
Garin Regional Park
1320 Garin Ave., Hayward
(510) 582-2206
www.ebparks.org
Sunday, Jun 16
Opera In the Vineyard
5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Celebrate Father's Day, bring a picnic. Live opera music
Nella Terra Cellars Vineyard
5005 Sheridan Rd, Sunol
(408) 893-9463
www.nellaterra.com
Sunday, Jun 16
Fearless Fathers
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Learn about nature's fabulous fathers on this 3.5-mile hike
Sunol Regional Wilderness
1895 Geary Rd., Sunol
(510) 544-3249
www.ebparks.org
Monday, Jun 17
Milpitas Rotary Club Meeting
12 noon – 1:30 p.m.
Alison Guan of Access Books Bay Area
Dave and Busters
940 Great Mall Dr., Milpitas
(408) 957-9215
http://www.clubrunner.ca/milpitas
Tuesday, Jun 18
Hikes for Tykes
10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Enjoy outdoors with your child. No strollers
Anthony Chabot Campground and Park
9999 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 690-6677
www.ebparks.org
Tuesday, Jun 18
Bird Walk
7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Meet at May Road Staging Area. Ages 12+
Garin Regional Park
1320 Garin Ave., Hayward
(510) 582-2206
www.ebparks.org
Wednesday, Jun 19
Wednesday Walk
9:30 a.m.
3-mile walk along the bay
Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center
4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward
(510) 670-7270
(510) 544-3282
www.haywardrec.org
Thursday, Jun 20
Beginning 3D Art R
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Free art class
San Leandro Main Library
300 Estudillo Ave., San Leandro
(510) 577-3971
Pioneer family creates scholarship for arts and literature
Submitted by Marlene Leal
Washington Township was once a land of ranches. Only one ranch in Alameda County, Leal Ranch, has been a family operation for over 130 years. The history of the Leal Ranch began when Joseph Silveira Leal of Faial, Azores, working on a whaling ship, jumped ship in the mid-1880s. In 1899, Joseph married Julia Perry, also from Faial. Julia had graduated from Irvington Grammar School in 1891, the beginning of a long tradition of attendance and affiliation with Washington Township schools and Fremont Unified School District.
Through the years, Leal children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren have become Irvington High School alumni. In honor of the family’s love of learning and the storied history of their family, a $1,500 Bernie and Marlene Leal Scholarship for Arts and Literature for a graduating Irvington High School student was created by Samantha Leal in honor of her grandparents and their ancestors. The first recipient of this honor was Jane Zucker at Irvington High School Senior Awards Night on June 3, 2019.
Fuel smiles for seniors
Submitted by Patricia Osage
Described as beautiful, selfless volunteers, these folks make sure that Tri-City homebound seniors have at least one fresh, healthy meal and a warm smile every day. Summer months are vacation times for many so our need for volunteers is more urgent than ever. Whatever your age or time commitment – only twice a month is required – we need you! Hours are 10:15 a.m. – 12 noon on any weekday. Join us and make a difference in your community and the lives of fellow residents.
Call Tammy at (510) 574-2086 or email info@lifeElderCare.org to get started.
Milpitas Police Log
Submitted by Lt. Steven Fox and Sgt. Joseph A. Heylen, Milpitas PD
Thursday, May 30
- At about 1:00 p.m. officers responded to a report of a white Mercedes-Benz being driven recklessly on the 500 Block of E. Calaveras Boulevard. Officers spotted the vehicle leaving the Town Center shopping center and made a vehicle stop. The driver, later identified by police as Jerrad Downey, 42, of Berkeley was determined to be on probation in Alameda County. Officers also found an unloaded Berretta handgun in the car. He was arrested and booked into the Santa Clara County Main Jail on suspicion of drunk driving, being a felon in possession of a firearm and probation violation.
Saturday, June 1
- At about 7:44 a.m. an officer saw an unoccupied suspicious motorcycle parked in the lot of the Best Value Inn motel, 485 South Main St. The motorcycle was reported stolen to the Fremont Police Department on May 10, 2019. Officers conducted surveillance on the motorcycle and determined the driver, Christopher Scroggins, 35, of San Jose was associated to a room at the motel. Officers arrested Scroggins as he left his hotel room, and determined he was on Santa Clara County probation for possession of a stolen vehicle, narcotics violations, and resisting/evading arrest.
Officers contacted another person in the hotel room, later identified as Kyndra Wozniak, 24, of Campbell. A record check on Wozniak showed she had a felony warrant for burglary out of San Jose. Officers searched the motel room and found methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Scroggins was booked into the Santa Clara County Jail for driving a stolen motorcycle with prior auto theft convictions and a probation violation. Wozniak was booked into the Santa Clara County Jail for her warrant, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
- At about 12:32 p.m. officers responded to a report of a burglary at a residence on the 1300 Block of Lassen Ave. The resident reported hearing someone inside her home. Officers arrived within two minutes, but the suspect was not located.
Milpitas City Council
June 4, 2019
Pledge of Allegiance led by Boy Scouts Troop 92
Personnel Changes
- Julie Edmonds-Mares has resigned as the City Manager after one year’s distinguished leadership. She was the first female City Manager of Milpitas.
- Steve McHarris, currently the Deputy City Manager for Community Development, was appointed Interim City Manager.
- Walter Rossmann was appointed CFO of the City of Milpitas. Most recently he had served as the COO of the City of Santa Clara, and Asst. City Manager of the City of Sunnyvale.
Presentation
July 2019 proclaimed Parks & Recreation Month.
Consent Calendar
- Delegated authority to the City Manager to approve project-related documents and urgent administrative items during the Council recess scheduled from June 19 – August 5, 2019.
- Approved travel for Councilmember Nuñez to attend the League of California Cities Mayors & Council Members Executive Forum and Advanced Leadership Workshop in Newport Beach, California.
- Authorized City Manager to execute a Professional Services Agreement with Swinerton Builders for construction management services for replacement of Fire Station No. 2.
- Approved the 5 Year Professional Services Agreement with Jordan C. Lee doing business as AAA Backflow Prevention Devices for Backflow Prevention Device Testing and Reporting.
Business Issues
- Approved Project Plans and Specifications, Approved Budget Appropriation, and Awarded a Construction Contract for Street Resurfacing.
- Approved a Master Equity Lease Agreement with Enterprise Fleet Management through a Cooperative Procurement contract with Sourcewell.
- Approved the City of Milpitas’ applications for a County of Santa Clara Historic Grant, for the projects: Lunar New Year, LGTBQ Pride, Cultural Flag Raising Series, and Carlo Park. The Carlo Park property should be committed to project use for at least twenty years.
- Approved the accounts receivable write-offs for the Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2019.
Community Development
Authorized the City Manager to negotiate a Lease Agreement with Clear Channel Outdoor for design, construction and management services of a digital billboard on Barber Court. Vote: Aye 3, Abstentions 2 (Tran and Montano)
Leadership and Support Services
Received update on the City Council Rules Subcommittee and provided direction on potential items for the Subcommittee’s further consideration.
Public Hearings
- Conducted a Public Hearing and Considered Approval of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Allocations for FY 2019-2020. Created a CDBG Funding AdHoc Sub-Committee comprising Vice Mayor Dominguez and Councilmember Nunez for further study. At the completion of their work the Public Hearing will be restarted at the next City Council meeting.
- Opened a Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2019-20 Operating Budget and the 2019-2024 Capital Improvement Program for the City of Milpitas and the Milpitas Housing Authority. The Public Hearing will continue at the next City Council meeting.
Rich Tran (Mayor) Aye, Abstain 1
Karina Dominguez (Vice Mayor) Aye
Carmen Montano Aye, Abstain 1
Bob Nuñez Aye
Anthony Phan Aye
Mr. Hirsch’s Tie Collection
By Stephanie Gertsch
Photos by Marcus Dana Montague
They came by truck. Or by cookie jar. One of the ties that Ohlone College Math Professor Geoff Hirsch’s students gave him was squeezed into a pill bottle. Three came in a piñata. Now Professor Hirsch is known by his students and colleagues for having what is undoubtedly one of the world’s most diverse tie collections, comprising over 1,000 creative and artistic pieces.
In the summer of 1987, Hirsch received a fish tie and a shark tie, along with other eccentric gifts and a card signed by everyone in his class. This was the start of his tie collection, which has become a way for students to demonstrate their artistic flare, memorialize class in-jokes, and in general, express thanks to their dedicated professor. Hirsch says, “I showed the ties and the card to subsequent classes, and told ‘The mother of all tie stories,’ and that got it going. Creative students tried to top that, so the collection grew, and the stories grew, slowly at first, then faster and faster.”
The ties can even facilitate a more positive classroom environment. Hirsch remembers receiving a tie featuring student thumbprints, designed by Pam Guerro. “I thought it rather amusing and shared it with my Finite Math class,” recalls Hirsch. “I’m glad I did. Two guys who had been giving me a hard time made a 180-degree turnaround. It seems Pam was a respected leader in their church! They added mightily to the tie collection.”
Although Hirsch has an “official” favorite tie among his collection (hint: it is prominently labeled “This is my favorite tie!”), he especially appreciates any items that exhibit creativity, such as the tie patterned with one of his favorite math books, and others which highlight that book’s Five-Step Process for solving word and other math problems. He also likes the ties signed by everyone in the class, including the thumbprint tie.
Some ties are made from unusual materials, including the tire tie. “My Pre-calculus student and Ohlone College Bicycle Club President Doug Miller made this from the tire off of a mountain bike,” says Hirsch, quipping, “I never tire of showing it. (Maybe, I should tread lightly with that joke? Or just retire it?)”
Students will go to extraordinary lengths to present a creative tie. One represented a semester-long in joke: “The first day of class one semester, I used the phrase, “At any rate,” three times, so some students decided they’d do a tally. At any rate, to cut to the chase, they presented this tie on the last day of class, with tally marks indicating I’d used the phrase 66 times!” Another class holds the record for presenting the largest number of ties, at 103 (eclipsing the former record by 98).
Many of the most eccentric and creative ties of the collection can be viewed at the Newark Ohlone Library, in an exhibit that will run Monday, June 17 – Thursday, August 8. Viewing hours are 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Hirsch says, “I hope you are as impressed as I am by my students’ creativity, both in what they made and how they delivered it. I feel blessed to be a part of it, if only as a recipient…the stories grew…and the tie collection grew.”
Mr. Hirsch’s Tie Collection
Monday, Jun 17 – Thursday, Aug 8
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Newark Ohlone Library
39399 Cherry St.
(510) 742-2300
https://www.ohlone.edu/library
Music at the Mission: Visions of Spain
Submitted by Vickilyn Hussey
Photos courtesy of Music at the Mission and Ragazzi Boys Chorus
The Music at the Mission season finale on Friday, June 14 at Old Mission San Jose promises to be an extraordinary experience, musically, visually, and emotionally. “Visiones de España (Visions of Spain)” features the world premiere of El Greco triptych, by Music at the Mission composer in residence Mark Fish, inspired by the dynamic visual and performing arts of Spain where the cultures of north Africa and Europe historically embrace. Additional highlights of this dynamic classical concert are Stravinsky’s Suite Italienne, Lara’s Granada for solo harp with guest artist Dan Levitan, Granados’ “Los Requiebros” from Goyescas (The gallants in love), and short works by Braga, Bruna and Duron performed on Old Mission San Jose’s historically correct Spanish organ “Rosales op.14” by guest artist Ron McKean. Kennedy Center Opera House violist Uri Wassertzug joins Music at the Mission chamber players Eugenie Wie (violin), Adelle Akiko Kearns (cello), Bill Everett (bass) Rhonda Bradetich (flute), and Aileen Chanco (piano).
“From Moorish roots of art and religion followed by the Spanish renaissance, Spain was enriched by other cultures and, in turn, influenced the world beyond its borders with 20th century artists such as the great modernists Picasso and Miro. Paintings by El Greco, Moro, Goya and others, along with Picasso’s innovative set designs and costumes from the Diaghilev Ballets Russes ballet Pulcinella, will serve as a visual framework for the Visiones de Espana concert program, enhancing the audience experience and providing historic perspective,” noted Bill Everett, Music at the Mission co-artistic director with Aileen Chanco. The performance of Suite Italienne will be accompanied by drawings and paintings from Picasso’s set and costume design from Pulcinella.
It was natural to look to history, art and design when considering the new composition commission. This is not Fish’s first time delving into music inspired by painting. In fact, while considering Pictures of Miro for the concert program, Everett and Fish began discussing sources of Spanish art as inspiration and both quickly came to El Greco for the new work. Images of the artwork relating to each piece will be projected on the big screen behind the Music at the Mission chamber players during the performance.
“For me, the creative process differs from piece to piece. But what comes at the beginning of that process is most important,” explained Fish, describing how during his honeymoon in Barcelona he discovered, several eras of Miro’s self-portraits that contrasted greatly in style and mood. “I tried to capture both the mood and some characteristics of each painting. Each movement is very short, no longer than two and a half minutes at the most, and in one case only 40 seconds, but certain characters stick out. Dog barking at the moon, one of Miro’s most famous paintings, has the viola making an actual barking sound by scratching the strings, while the flute is holding long high notes to represent the moon hanging in the sky. Girl practicing gymnastics requires a bit of acting from the flutist, who keeps trying to play a high e, but has to stop and check to see that the flute is working properly.”
In El Greco triptych, the composer delves deep into the visual art of El Greco’s Fable, view of Toledo, and Holy trinity. “View of Toledo,” says Fish, “the second movement, is a painting with which I’ve been familiar since I was a child; a copy hung in our family hallway for years, and I’ve always been struck by the way in which light illuminates parts of the otherwise very dark clouds as well as the landscape below.
“At the end of the second movement, we hear the same ‘flame’ tune we heard at the end of the first, but it is longer and harmonized by one other ‘voice.’ The last movement, ‘Holy trinity,’ is the only sacred painting of the three. What stands out to me the most is the light above and the dove of the Holy Ghost. This is why the piece ends with the flame theme again, but fully harmonized, eventually sung a cappella by a boys chorus.”
Music at the Mission welcomes the Avanti chorus of the Grammy award-winning Ragazzi Boys Chorus, conducted by Kent L. Jue, as guest artists for El Greco triptych. The Avanti chorus, an upper level treble group that performs its own repertoire and tours domestically every year, will also perform Riu riu Chiu (a 16th century Spanish villancico) to open the concert.
The El Greco triptych commission is made possible by East Bay Fund for Artists at East Bay Community Foundation and Union Bank. Tickets to Visiones de España are available through the Music at the Mission website or at the door.
Visiones de España
Friday, Jun 14
8 p.m. concert
7:15 p.m. pre-concert talk
Old mission San Jose
43300 Mission Blvd, Fremont
(510) 402-1724
Tickets: $15 – $55
Fremont News Briefs
Submitted by Cheryl Golden
Affordable Housing Ordinance Work Session
This past April, the Fremont City Council held a Council Work Session on housing/growth management and directed city staff to organize a separate Council Work Session on the Affordable Housing Ordinance. This work session will take place at 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 11 at Fremont City Hall Council Chambers, 3300 Capitol Avenue. City staff will provide the council with an overview of the Affordable Housing Ordinance, including housing production data over the past several years and legislative changes and court decisions that have taken place since the adoption of the ordinance. City staff will ask for input from the council regarding any changes to the ordinance they may choose to pursue. This work session is open to the public. For more information, call the city’s Housing Division at (510) 494-4500 or email housing@fremont.gov.
Discuss Homelessness Efforts
The City of Fremont will organize a Special Meeting-Work Session at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 18 for the city staff to go before the council and provide an overall update on the city’s homeless efforts. The staff will also present and establish criteria to evaluate possible locations for a housing navigation center, which transitions those experiencing homelessness into permanent housing, stabilization, and self-sufficiency through coordinated services. This session will take place at the Fremont City Hall, 3300 Capitol Avenue and is open to the public. The regularly scheduled council meeting, which begins at 7 p.m., will follow the Special Meeting-Work Session.
The work session agenda will be published within 72 hours of the meeting date. To subscribe and receive Fremont council agendas and minutes, as well as Special Meeting-Work Session agendas, notifications by email and/or text, visit www.fremont.gov/SubscribeCouncilAgenda. All council meetings are available to watch live or rebroadcast via Channel 27, The Fremont Government Channel, or the city’s website. Learn more at www.Fremont.gov/Channel27. To learn more about the city’s multi-pronged approach to homelessness, visit https://fremont.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1550.
Homework Help
With school ending soon, it’s not too early to plan for a fall after-school program for your child. The Warm Springs After School Care and Homework program begins on Wednesday, August 28 and runs every four weeks from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. (and extended hours to 6:30 p.m. if needed) Monday through Friday during the school year (except holiday breaks). Experienced and enthusiastic staff monitors homework and provides students quality help when needed. Youth in grades K-6 can take part in the homework support program that provides an environment to thrive both academically and emotionally through well-structured daily curriculum, nutritious snacks, outdoor supervised recess, and fun activities in a nurturing environment.
Held at the Warm Springs Community Center, 47300 Fernald Street, this unique program offers a smooth transition from school activities to a dedicated space for daily homework assistance. Registration is now open; to register or for more information, visit www.RegeRec.com, or call (510) 494-4318 or (510) 494-4300.
Budget Hearing and Adoption
The city’s proposed operating budget for the next fiscal year, running from July 1, 2019 through June 30, 2020 was presented to the city council on May 21. The second hearing and adoption, part of the Council meeting, is at 7 p.m. Tuesday, June 11. To view the Fiscal Year 2019/20 proposed operating budget, visit www.Fremont.gov/FY19-20ProposedOperatingBudget.
2019 Summer Camps
Explore the possibilities this summer. Fremont Recreation Services offers hundreds of camps with a variety of activities at multiple locations. Whether your child is a hacker in training, next top chef, arts enthusiast, or an athlete, we’ve got something for everyone. Camps run from Monday, June 17 through Tuesday, August 27 with full-day, half-day, and extended-care options. Learn more at www.RegeRec.com or call (510) 494-4300.
Fremont Street Eats
Head to Downtown Fremont this summer for another season of Fremont Street Eats. In partnership with the Food Truck Mafia, the Chamber of Commerce will be hosting new food trucks every Friday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. through the end of October at Town Fair Plaza, 39100 State Street. Visitors can also enjoy live entertainment, weekly drawings and prizes, wine, and new beer selections every month.
Oakland becomes 2nd US city to decriminalize magic mushrooms
By Samantha Maldonado
Associated Press
SAN FRANCISCO (AP), Jun 05 – Oakland on Tuesday became the second U.S. city to decriminalize magic mushrooms after a string of people shared how psychedelics helped them overcome depression, drug addiction and post-traumatic stress disorder.
The City Council voted unanimously to decriminalize the adult use and possession of magic mushrooms and other entheogenic, or psychoactive, plants. Denver voters approved a similar measure for people 21 and older last month.
Speakers overwhelmingly supported the move, describing substances like peyote as traditional plant-based medicines. One man who described himself as a former heroin addict said such plants saved his life. Some offered mystical descriptions of the hallucinogens as providing spiritual healing.
The vote makes the investigation and arrest of adults who grow, possess, use or distribute entheogenic plants one of the lowest priorities for police. No City money could be used to enforce laws criminalizing the substances, and the Alameda County district attorney would stop prosecuting people who have been apprehended for use or possession.
Council member Noel Gallo, who introduced the resolution, had said decriminalizing such plants would enable Oakland police to focus on serious crime.
Amendments offered by Council member Loren Taylor added caveats that the substances “are not for everyone,” recommending that people with PTSD or major depression seek professional help before using them and that people “don't go solo” but seek expert guidance and have a trusted friend present during the use.
The ordinance also directs the city administrator to come back within a year to provide the council with an assessment of the law's impact on the community.
“Entheogenic plants and fungi are tremendous for helping to enable healing, particularly for folks who have experienced trauma in their lives,” Carlos Plazola, chairman of the advocacy group Decriminalize Nature Oakland, said before the council meeting. “These plants are being recommended pretty extensively undercover, underground, by doctors and therapists.”
The Oakland Police Department did not respond to emailed messages from The Associated Press seeking comment before the meeting. Alameda County Deputy District Attorney Teresa Drenick declined to comment.
Magic mushrooms are still illegal under federal and state law. Entheogenic substances are considered Schedule 1 drugs under the federal Controlled Substances Act, which categorizes drugs that have potential for abuse and no medical value.
Skeptics had raised concerns about unsafe use, especially in schools.
To address such concerns, Gallo said, lawmakers would have to establish rules and regulations about the use of such substances, including what exactly can be used, how to use them and what the associated risks are.
Entheogenic plants have long been used in religious and cultural contexts. Gallo remembers his grandmother treating his family members with plants, including entheogenic ones, for a variety of ailments.
“Growing up in the Mexican community, this was our cure,” Gallo said.
Hemp oils, mushrooms and yerba buenas – an aromatic plant known for its medicinal properties – “that was our Walgreens. We didn't have a Walgreens. We didn't have a way to pay for any drugs. These are plants we have known for thousands of years in our community and that we continue to use.”
Swallow Scene
By Pat Kite
My baby swallows are learning to fly. The duo perch on an overhead ledge, staring intently. Mother swallow is sitting there too. She is supervising swallow flight lessons. I am, apparently, tromping too loudly while seeking my morning newspaper. I try to walk very quietly. Mother swallow flies over my head. Klutz! I tiptoe quickly and scoop up the paper, dashing back to the door. Mother swallow is circling the area, obviously upset. Safe inside, it makes me laugh. It is very hard to be morning grumpity when you have two, cuter than cute, young fluffy swallows perched on an overhead ledge.
In Germany, the swallows are called the birds of the Madonna. In an old Austrian text, swallows helped the Lord God in building the sky. According to a historical Greek writer, a swallow chirping over the head of sleeping warrior Alexander the Great woke him, warning of a family plot against him. Swallows are birds of the best augury or future prediction. If a swallow enters your house, it brings all kinds of happiness with it. In Japanese folklore, swallows are a symbol of good luck, fidelity in marriage, and fertility. In many countries, it is a serious sin to kill them or destroy their nests. There are swallows all over the world, except for Antarctica. Here are just a few types: Chilean, blue-and-white, golden, cliff, white-rumped, tree, violet-green, wire-tailed, Ethiopian, red-chested, and mangrove.
You may have heard about the annual swallow return to Mission San Juan Capistrano. How did it start? In the 1920s, Father St. John O’Sullivan, pastor of the Mission, saw a local shopkeeper knocking down mud swallow nests under his store overhang. The chirping birds were very upset. The shopkeeper said he was getting rid of the “dirty birds.” Father O’Sullivan worried, Where would the birds go? The shopkeeper didn’t care, as long as they were gone. Father O’Sullivan cared. He said, “Come on swallows, I’ll give you shelter. Come to the Mission. There’s room enough there for all.” The next day, swallows began building their nests outside the Mission Church. They began coming each year about the same time, and in the early 1930s the annual festival began. You can visit too; check the church’s website https://www.missionsjc.com/ for information.
In ancient Egypt’s Book of the Dead, there are detailed instructions on how the deceased can transform into a swallow. A pharaoh writes that swallows are the constant stars that never die. In Egyptian love poetry, the swallow declares the dawn of new love. Such splendid little birds. And mine are learning to fly.
PG&E expands weather station and camera network
Submitted by Tamar Sarkissian
As part of its Community Wildfire Safety Program (CWSP), Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) announced that it is expanding its network of weather stations and high-definition cameras to improve the company’s ability to predict and respond to extreme wildfire danger. By the end of 2019, PG&E plans to have at least 600 weather stations and 100 high-definition cameras in high fire-threat areas. These new installations are one of the many additional precautionary measures the company is implementing after the 2017 and 2018 wildfires to further reduce wildfire risks.
Building on the 200 weather stations it installed in 2018, PG&E has added an additional 200 weather stations in 2019 to capture localized, real-time data related to temperature, wind speeds and humidity levels. Approximately 400 new weather stations are scheduled to be installed in 2019, prioritized in areas at elevated and extreme risk for wildfires, based on the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) High Fire-Threat District Map. Alameda and other counties have already received weather stations.
To help protect customers and communities during extreme weather events, electric power may be shut off for public safety to prevent a wildfire. This is called a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS). PG&E’s meteorologists will feed data from these new stations to the company’s Wildfire Safety Operations Center team, where it can be utilized to help inform actions such as PSPS.
“These new weather stations help us monitor conditions around the clock, improving our ability to understand when and where it is necessary to take this precautionary action in the interest of public safety,” said Aaron Johnson, PG&E vice president of electric operations.
PG&E has also installed 25 of the 100 high-definition (HD) cameras planned for this year. The company has now installed 34 HD cameras since 2018, with a goal of installing 600 new cameras by 2022 as part of the ALERTWildfire Camera Network. The high-definition, pan-tilt-zoom cameras allow firefighters, first responders and companies like PG&E to confirm and monitor potential wildfires.
Trio shares unique blend of folk music and harmony
Submitted by The Real Sarahs
A trio of rising star musicians in the Americana music scene, The Real Sarahs are making a stop in Fremont soon as part of their international tour through western Canada and the northwestern United States.
Based in coastal Mendocino County in California, the female trio weave a magical tapestry of up-tempo folk music that has captured the hearts of audiences everywhere they travel. As their performances embrace many genres of music, audiences are likely to hear threads of folk, jazz, blues, bluegrass, and country running through the trio’s songs accompanied by various acoustic stringed instruments.
“A perfect blend of voices supported by minimal instrumentation…These gals got it going on!” said Alex DeGrassi, Grammy nominated finger-style guitarist. They will be performing on Sunday, June 23 at The Mudpuddle Shop, a music school and performance space in the historic Niles district of Fremont. Music starts at 2 p.m. Admission is free.
The Real Sarahs
Sunday, Jun 23
2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Up-tempo folk music and harmony
The Mudpuddle Shop
37433 Niles Blvd., Fremont
(510) 794-9935
San Leandro Police Log
Submitted by Lt. Isaac Benabou, San Leandro PD
Saturday, June 1
- At about 10 a.m. officers patrolling at the San Leandro Cherry Festival downtown spotted a man dressed in a “K9 Unit” police-style uniform with a ballistic vest, duty belt, firearm ammunition, Taser and a German shepherd dog. Officers recognized the man as Sergio Taylor, 20, of Oakland from a recent flyer distributed by the Berkeley Police Department that indicated Taylor was wanted on an outstanding arrest warrant and various other charges stemming from a May 12th incident at a bar in Berkeley.
Before officers could stop Taylor, he drove away in a black 2013 Ford Taurus with security markings on it resembling a police vehicle. Also, in the vehicle was a man later identified by police as John Payne, 39, of Oakland and a German shepherd dog. Officers made a vehicle stop and Taylor was taken into custody without incident. A search of the vehicle turned up a replica Glock semi-automatic pistol and ammunition. Payne also was arrested on suspicion of delaying the officer’s investigation. The dog was released to one of Taylor’s family members.
San Leandro City Council
June 3, 2019
Recognitions:
- Proclamation declaring June as Pride Month/25th Anniversary of Lavender Seniors of the East Bay
Presentations:
- Update from Townsend Public Affairs on proposed state housing legislation
Public Hearings:
- Adoption of the proposed 2019-20 and 2020-21 biennial budget for the City of San Leandro, the Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency of the City of San Leandro, and the San Leandro Public Financing Authority
Consent Calendar:
- Resolution to approve an agreement between the City of San Leandro and Priority 1 Public Safety Equipment not to exceed $637,200 for two fiscal years for police vehicles, vehicle maintenance, collision repair, and service
- Resolution to approve a 5-year renewal contract between Axon Enterprise, Incorporated (formerly Taser International) and the City for 110 body-worn cameras, 110 TASER Devices, and continued subscription service to a digital evidence management system for an amount not to exceed $1,367,484, or $262,982 in fiscal year 2019-20 and then $276,126 annually through fiscal year 2023-24
- Resolution to execute an updated emergency medical services First Responder Advanced Life Support Services (FRALS) agreement with the County of Alameda
Calendar passed 6-0
Items Removed from Consent Calendar:
- Resolution to approve the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2018
Item passed 6-0
Action Items:
- Ordinance to add mobile home space rent stabilization to the City of San Leandro Municipal Code. Item passed 5-1 (Nay; Hernandez)
- Ordinance adding chapter 4-40 to title 4 of the San Leandro Municipal Code regarding hosted
short-term rental of all or part of a residential dwelling unit. Item passed 6-0
- Resolution approving the second amendment to the exclusive negotiating rights agreement between Cal-Coast Companies LLC and the City of San Leandro relating to development of
the San Leandro Marina-Shoreline Project. Item passed 6-0
City Council Reports:
- Councilmember Cox attended a San Leandro Improvement Association (SLIA) meeting on May 9 where they discussed a new sign and Truth Thursdays
- Councilmember Cox attended a Stop Waste meeting on May 22 where awards were handed out
- Councilmember Cox attended an Alameda County Transportation Committee (ACTC) meeting on May 23 where they discussed the East 14th Street multi-modal project and SB238, which proposes changing school start times to 8:30 a.m.
- Councilmember Cox was at an ACTC retreat on May 23 where she learned about a Silicon Valley group Faster Bay Area, which looks at implementing new infrastructure measures
- Vice Mayor Lopez attended an ACTC Board Meeting on May 23
- Vice Mayor Lopez attended a League of California Cities, East Bay Division meeting on May 23
City Council Calendar and Announcements:
- Councilmember Ballew will be calling in for the June 17 meeting
- Councilmember Hernandez will attend East Bay Community Energy meeting on June 5
- Councilmember Aguilar reported that the San Leandro Homeless Compact will receive the MTC ABAG Award on June 6
Council Requests to Schedule Agenda Items:
- Councilmember Ballew requested a staff update on crime prevention cameras. Item passed 4-0 (Abstain; Aguilar)
Mayor Pauline Russo Cutter Aye
Vice Mayor Corina N. Lopez Aye
Victor Aguilar, Jr. Aye, 1 Abstain
Ed Hernandez Aye, 1 Nay
Benny Lee Absent
Deborah Cox Aye
Pete Ballew Aye
Shakespeare in a hurry
Submitted by Karin Richey
Do you love the works of William Shakespeare, but don’t have time to sit through a long performance? Plethos Productions may have just the program you’re looking for.
The company will stage “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” at TwiningVine Winery in Castro Valley during June with just three actors covering 37 Shakespeare plays in under two hours. Can they do it? Stop by and see. The fast-firing comedy production will be performed under the stars the evenings of June 14-16 and June 21-23 starting at 7:00 p.m. Food and beverages will be available.
Seating is outdoors with a lawn area available for those who would like to bring a blanket for picnic seating. Advance tickets are $20 online at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4033702 or at the gate the day of the event.
Shakespeare Abridged
Jun 14-16 and Jun 21-23
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
TwiningVine Winery
16851 Cull Canyon Rd, Castro Valley
www.plethos.org/nowplaying
www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4033702
Tickets: $20 online or at the gate
Cast Names: Amanda Bailey, Brian Moore, Nick Mandracchia
This summer enjoy Shakespeare under the stars
Submitted by Rose Josue
Photos by Cathy Breslow
“The Complete Works of Shakespeare [ABRIDGED] (Revised)” is a hysterical and zany show that was the longest-running comedy in London's history. Plethos Productions is bringing this wild ride to the beautiful TwiningVine Winery in Castro Valley beginning on Friday, June 14.
The show, written by Adam Long, Daniel Singer, and Jess Winfield, takes the audience on a journey alongside three Shakespearean quasi-experts—Nick, Amanda, and Brian. The three audacious actors attempt to perform all 37 of Shakespeare's plays in just 90 minutes. And of course, hilarity ensues. From “Romeo and Juliet” to “Hamlet,” and even all of the sonnets in between, each and every work of Shakespeare gets a nod. The show has been described as “Drunk History presents all of Shakespeare.” This laugh-out-loud farce is great for audiences of all ages as it features sword fights, ridiculous props, crazy wigs and all the hijinks of an improv comedy show.
Shakespeare Abridged is directed by Riley Hyde, who has performed on stages throughout the Bay Area, including several at Castro Valley's own Chanticleers Theatre and the Douglas Morrisson Theatre. The cast members are all seasoned performers who have also been seen in plays and musicals throughout the Bay Area.
Each performance will take place amongst the vines of TwiningVine Winery on Cull Canyon road. Audiences are welcome to enjoy local wine, food and desserts from their seats or from the picnic lawn area throughout the performance. The show runs Friday through Sunday, June 14-16 and 21-23. Tickets purchased before June 8 are just $15; after that general admission is $20. Tickets are available now at plethos.org.
Shakespeare Abridged
Friday – Sunday; Jun 14 – 16, 21 – 23
7 p.m.
TwiningVine Winery
Cull Canyon Rd., Castro Valley
(510) 582-7391
Plethos.org
Tickets $15 – 20
Paint and Sip
Submitted by Irene Jordahl
Join the Sons of Norway Snorre Lodge on Friday, June 14 to paint the Aurora Borealis Lights and sip wine. Follow along with a local artist as you are guided through painting and creating your own masterpiece. Supplies will be provided, and at the end of the night you can take your painting home. The ticket price includes painting materials, dinner (sandwich, salad, chips, and cookie) and wine. To reserve your space, call Secretary Aunda Arndt at (925) 548-0292 or email aja469@hotmail.com. For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/2338352852897326/.
6:00 p.m. – Social
6:30 p.m. – Painting and Dinner
8:30 p.m. – Closing
Northern Lights Paint Night
Friday, Jun 14
6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Hill & Valley Club House
1808 B St, Hayward
(925) 548-0292
https://www.facebook.com/events/2338352852897326/
Tickets $49 per person
RSVP Required
Social Security Column
Sign up for Medicare and estimate Medicare costs
By Linda Zamfino
Social Security Representative
Affordable medical coverage is something everyone wants, especially as people age. Luckily, our nation has safeguards for workers as they get older. Millions of people rely on Medicare, and it can be part of your health insurance plan when you retire.
Medicare is available for people ages 65 or older, as well as younger people who have received Social Security disability benefits for 24 months, and people with certain diseases. Two parts of Medicare are Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (Medicare insurance). You are eligible for premium-free Part A if you are age 65 or older and you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. Part B usually requires a monthly premium payment.
You can apply online for Medicare even if you are not ready to retire. Use our online application to sign up. It takes less than 10 minutes. In most cases, once your application is submitted electronically, you’re done. There are no forms to sign and usually no documentation is required. Social Security will process your application and contact you if we need more information. Otherwise, you’ll receive your Medicare card in the mail.
You can sign up for Medicare at www.socialsecurity.gov/benefits/medicare. If you don't sign up for Medicare during your initial enrollment window that begins three months before the birthday on which you reach age 65 and ends three months after that birthday, you'll face a 10 percent increase in your Part B premiums for every yearlong period you're eligible for coverage but don't enroll.
You may not have to pay the penalty if you qualify for a special enrollment period (SEP). If you are 65 or older and covered under a group health plan, either from your own or your spouse’s current employment, you may have a SEP during which you can sign up for Medicare Part B. This means that you may delay enrolling in Part B without having to wait for a general enrollment period and without paying the lifetime penalty for late enrollment. Additional rules and limits apply, so if you think a SEP may apply to you, read our Medicare publication at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/, and visit the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services at Medicare.gov for more information.
Health and drug costs not covered by Medicare can have a big impact on how much you spend each year. You can also estimate Medicare costs using an online tool at www.medicare.gov/oopc/. Keeping your healthcare costs down allows you to use your retirement income on other things that you can enjoy. Social Security is here to help you plan a long and happy retirement at www.socialsecurity.gov.
Volunteers help students sharpen tech skills
Article and photo submitted by Jim Hsia
Students at Milpitas Christian School (MCS) recently used their science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills to understand the concepts for designing, constructing and packaging bandages in a challenge sponsored by Johnson & Johnson Vision on Wednesday, May 15. Ninety years after the company first began treating household cuts, Johnson & Johnson Vision employees challenged the MCS fourth and fifth grade classes to build a better bandage. Each group needed to address a common injury to a hand or leg based on a specific project scenario.
Volunteers from the company worked with the students in exploratory sessions to help them complete the challenge while thinking critically and using problem-solving skills to achieve success. In teams of four to five, students worked together to create a bandage within a limited time using the materials provided by Johnson & Johnson. Teams applied STEM skills and presented their unique ideas to the class. Each solution was evaluated against these criteria:
- Absorbent: able to soak up a liquid easily
- Adhesive: able to stick fast to a surface or object
- Sterile: free from germs
- Occlusive: air and water-tight
- Flexible: capable of bending easily but not breaking
- Camouflage: unobtrusive against skin
- Branded: including the product name given by the maker
“We’re thankful for the employees of Johnson & Johnson Vision who volunteered their time and resources at Milpitas Christian School,” said Robert (Bob) Murray, Head of School for Milpitas Christian School. “Their project-based learning sessions helped our students translate science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts into creative problem-solving and data-driven decisions. Our hope is that these exercises will inspire our kids to dream bigger and aim higher for their future goals.”
In 1929, Johnson & Johnson’s Earle Dickson invented the first bandage (BAND-AID®) using adhesive surgical tape and gauze, two of his company’s products. His invention allowed his wife to dress her own kitchen wounds. Now the company supports STEM education, an increasingly important sector of studies and careers. In 2015, Johnson & Johnson launched a fully funded Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, Manufacturing and Design (WiSTEM2D) program. The company later added “2D” to its STEM initiative to recognize and elevate the manufacturing and design disciplines. The recent challenge at MCS continues their dedication to fostering STEM education in youth and finding better solutions to common injuries.