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UK Con woman stole diamonds by swapping them for pebbles
Associated Press
LONDON (AP), July 20 ¬ A British court has heard how a woman allegedly pretended to be a gem expert and swapped diamonds worth 4.2 million pounds ($5.7 million) for pebbles using “sleight of hand” at a luxury London jewelers.
Prosecutors said Tuesday that Lulu Lakatos, 60, posed as a gem expert and went to jewelry shop Boodles in London’s tony Mayfair area in March 2016, allegedly to value seven diamonds on behalf of a group of wealthy Russian buyers.
The diamonds, which included a 20-carat heart-shaped diamond valued at more than 2.2 million pounds, were to be placed in a locked bag and held in the jeweler’s vault until payment was transferred. But when Boodles’ own diamond expert became suspicious and opened the bag the next day, she found seven small pebbles.
Prosecutor Philip Stott said the diamonds had been “stolen by the defendant by sleight of hand.”
“The conspiracy in which she is alleged to have played an integral and central part was one of the highest possible sophistication, planning, risk and reward,” he told Southwark Crown Court in London.
Lakatos, who was born in Romania but lived in France, denies any wrongdoing. She is charged with conspiracy to steal.
Nicholas Wainwright, chairman of Boodles, one of Britain’s top luxury jewelry brands, said in a statement that he had been approached by an Israeli buyer who wanted to invest in high-value diamonds in the weeks before the theft. He agreed to the sale of the seven diamonds following a meeting in a Monaco hotel.
Wainwright met with Lakatos in his shop’s basement, along with his own diamond expert Emma Barton. As soon as Wainwright left the room to take a call from the alleged buyer, Lakatos put the padlocked purse containing the gems in her own handbag, Barton told the jury.
Barton said she protested, but Stott alleged that Lakatos swapped the purse with an identical locked bag and placed that back on the table in a matter of seconds.
Prosecutors said Lakatos then worked with accomplices to make their getaway to France in a rented car.
Two men have already pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal over the heist.
Barton said she discovered “seven garden pebbles” when she opened the purse the next evening.
Lakatos was arrested in France on a European arrest warrant last September and extradited to the U.K. The trial is expected to last several more days.
Anti-Plastic waste initiative approved for California ballot
Associated Press
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP), July 21 — A California initiative that would require state regulators to reduce plastic waste has qualified for the November 2022 ballot, officials said
.
Secretary of State Shirley Weber’s office said on July 19 the initiative exceeded the required 623,212 valid petition signatures needed for the measure to go before voters next year. If passed, the law would compel the state to take multiple steps to reduce plastic waste, including requiring that single-use plastic packaging, containers, and utensils be reusable, recyclable, or compostable.
Producers of single-use plastic packaging would be taxed, with the revenue allocated for recycling and environmental programs. In addition, the state Legislature would be prohibited from reducing funding to specified state environmental agencies below 2019 levels.
The measure is supported by a coalition of environmental groups. “The manufacturers of disposable plastic products and packaging have been making empty promises for decades, all the while they have hired lobbyists to stop any legislation designed to actually rein in the amount of plastic pollution they generate,” said Nick Lapis, director of advocacy for the Californians Against Waste. “It’s time for the voters to get a say.”
Two of the largest groups representing the industry, the American Chemistry Council and the Plastics Industry Association, did not respond on July 19 to requests for comment by the San Francisco Chronicle.
Radio host added to California recall ballot
By Michael R. Blood and Kathleen Ronayne
Associated Press
LOS ANGELES (AP), July 21 – A California judge on July 20 cleared the way for conservative talk radio host Larry Elder to join the field of candidates for an upcoming recall election aimed at removing Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom from office.
Elder scored a swift court victory in Sacramento, where he challenged a decision by state election officials to block him from the September recall ballot. In a tweet, Elder wrote, “Victory! My next one will be on Sept. 14 at the ballot box.” He added: “This isn’t just a victory for me, but a victory for the people of California. And not just those who favor the recall and support me, but all voters, including many who will come to know me.”
Superior Court Judge Laurie M. Earl disagreed with a state decision that Elder failed to meet requirements to qualify to run in the election. Under a new requirement, candidates for California governor must publicly release tax returns for the five most recent years to qualify for the ballot. It was passed in an effort by Democrats to force former President Donald Trump to release his tax returns during the 2020 election. A court struck down the presidential requirement but left it in place for gubernatorial candidates.
But the judge found the rule didn’t apply to recall elections and, even if it did, Elder has substantially complied. Forty-two other candidates have been cleared to appear on the recall ballot.
The election, in the nation’s most populous state, will be a marquee contest with national implications, watched closely as a barometer of the public mood heading toward the 2022 elections, when a closely divided Congress again will be in play.
Elder’s court win also will be celebrated by recall organizers who hoped for a large field of prominent candidates to attract voters. When Elder announced his candidacy, he immediately became one of the most recognized Republicans in the race, given his years on talk radio as well as appearances on Fox News and other media.
Elder announced his campaign July 12, but when a preliminary list of candidates was released last week, he wasn’t on it. The state argued his tax information was incomplete, but Elder said he’s the target of political “shenanigans” by Democrats aligned with Newsom who don’t want him on the ballot.
Meanwhile, virtually the entire field of candidates appears set. Other Republicans who qualified to run include reality TV personality and former Olympian Caitlyn Jenner; businessman John Cox, who was defeated by Newsom in 2018; state lawmaker Kevin Kiley and former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer, who also was headed to court in a dispute over his title on the ballot.
Voters in the election will be sent a ballot with two questions: Should Newsom be recalled? And who should replace him? If more than half of voters say “yes” to the first question, then whoever on the list of potential replacements gets the most votes is the new governor of the nation’s most populous state. With numerous candidates and no clear front-runner, it’s possible that someone could win with less than 25% of the votes.
The push to oust the first-term, Democratic governor is largely rooted in frustration with school and business closures during the pandemic that upended daily life for millions of residents.
UC system admits largest, most diverse undergraduate class
Associated Press
SAN FRANCISCO (AP), July 20, ¬ The University of California admitted its largest and most diverse undergraduate class ever after receiving a record number of applications, officials announced.
The university system’s nine undergraduate campuses accepted 132,353 prospective freshmen, an increase of 11% over last year, officials said in a statement Monday.
Admission of California freshmen reached an all-time high with 84,223 students and 36,462 of them, or 43%, are students from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. Latinos were the largest group admitted for the second year in a row, making up 37%. Asian Americans made up 34%, white students 20% and Black students 5%. The rest were American Indians, Pacific Islanders or those who declined to state their race or ethnicity, officials said.
“These remarkable numbers are a testament to the hard work and resiliency of students and their families across California,” said President Michael V. Drake. “I am particularly heartened by the social and economic diversity of those offered a place at UC. Fall will be an exciting time on our campuses.”
Nearly 204,000 prospective freshmen applied for at least one UC school for fall 2021 during the application period that ended Dec. 4 for most campuses. That was an 18% increase over last year.
The increase in freshmen applications may be due in part because more were encouraged to apply after the end of UC’s standardized testing requirement. Also, the university system temporarily suspended the letter-grade requirement for high school classes taken in winter, spring or summer terms of 2020 and the full 2020-21 academic year because of the pandemic.
“UC hoped these changes would further support students who faced barriers during a challenging year marked by canceled classes and schools that switched to pass/fail grading,” officials said.
The campuses also admitted 30,883 transfer applicants, an all-time record high. Of those students, 53% will be the first in their families to earn a four-year college degree, according to figures released by the university system.
UC campuses are working toward a goal of enrolling one new California resident transfer student for every two new in-state freshmen. As part of those efforts, some UC campuses reached out to community colleges in their area to seek out transfer students.
Extra COVID vaccine may help protect transplant patients
Jun 14
By Lauran Neergaard
AP Medical Writer
A small study offers the first hint that an extra dose of COVID-19 vaccines just might give some organ transplant recipients a needed boost in protection.
Even as most vaccinated people celebrate a return to near normalcy, millions who take immune-suppressing medicines because of transplants, cancer or other disorders remain in limbo – uncertain how protected they really are. It’s simply harder for vaccines to rev up a weak immune system.
Monday’s study tracked just 30 transplant patients but it’s an important step toward learning if booster doses could help.
It didn’t help everybody. But of the 24 patients who appeared to have no protection after the routine two vaccinations, eight of them – a third – developed some virus-fighting antibodies after an extra shot, researchers from Johns Hopkins University reported in Annals of Internal Medicine. And six others who’d had only minimal antibodies all got a big boost from the third dose.
“It’s very encouraging,” said Dr. Dorry Segev, a Hopkins transplant surgeon who helped lead the research. “Just because you’re fully negative after two doses doesn’t mean that there’s no hope.”
Next up: Working with the National Institutes of Health, Segev’s team hopes to begin a more rigorous test of a third vaccination in 200 transplant recipients this summer.
For transplant patients, powerful immune-suppressing drugs prevent rejection of their new organs but also leave them extremely vulnerable to the coronavirus. They were excluded from initial testing of the COVID-19 vaccines, but doctors urge that they get vaccinated in hopes of at least some protection.
Some do benefit. The Hopkins team recently tested more than 650 transplant recipients and found about 54% harbored virus-fighting antibodies after two doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines – although generally less than in otherwise healthy vaccinated people.
It’s not just a concern after organ transplants. One study of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and other autoimmune disorders found 85% developed antibodies, said Dr. Alfred Kim of Washington University in St. Louis. But those who used particular kinds of immune-suppressing drugs produced dramatically lower levels that are a cause for concern.
“We tell our patients to act like the vaccine is not going to work as well as it does for their family and friends,” said Kim, who would like to test a third dose in autoimmune patients, too. “This is very frustrating news to them.”
Doctors sometimes give extra doses of other vaccines, such as the hepatitis B shot, to people with weak immune systems.
And guidelines issued in France recommend a third COVID-19 shot for certain severely immune-suppressed people, including transplant recipients, Segev noted.
The U.S. hasn’t authorized extra COVID-19 vaccinations. But around the country, a growing number of immune-compromised patients are seeking third doses on their own – the people Hopkins sought to test.
In San Francisco, Gillian Ladd agreed to blood tests before and after an extra dose. The recipient of a kidney and pancreas transplant, Ladd, 48, was terrified to leave her house after learning she had no measurable antibodies despite two Pfizer shots.
With the additional dose, “I had gotten what I needed in order to survive,” Ladd said, but she’s still sticking with masks and other precautions.
“I am being as careful as I possibly can while acknowledging that I’m coming back into the world of the living,” she said.
Further research is needed to tell if a third dose really helps, who’s the best candidate and if there are brand differences – plus whether the extra immune stimulation could increase the risk of organ rejection.
But Segev cautions boosters aren’t the only possibility. In addition to antibodies, vaccinations normally spur other protections such as T cells that can fend off severe illness. He and several other research groups are testing whether immune-compromised patients get that benefit.
For now, “the best way to protect these people is for others to get vaccinated” so they’re less likely to get exposed to the coronavirus, stressed Washington University’s Kim.
The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Department of Science Education. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Virginia Zoo announces its first white rhino birth
Associated Press
NORFOLK, Va. (AP), July 20 – The Virginia Zoo is welcoming its first baby Southern white rhinoceros.
The male calf was born to mom, Zina, and dad, Sibindi, on July 11, zoo officials announced Monday. He is strong, nursing well and is bonding with his mother, who is showing signs of good mothering, officials said. The calf is the first of his species to be born at the Virginia Zoo and his birth brings the zoo’s rhino count to four.
The zoo’s veterinarian Dr. Tara Reilly examined the calf about 36 hours after he was born and he weighed in at 125 pounds or 57 kilograms. He is 22 inches (56 cm) tall and 36 inches (91 cm) long.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature classifies the species as near threatened because of threats in the wild due to habitat loss and illegal poaching of their horns.
The new calf needs a name, so the zoo is auctioning off the right to name him. The auction runs through July 30 and proceeds will go to the International Rhino Foundation.
Park It
By Ned MacKay
In a measure that’s timely to say the least, the East Bay Regional Park District has received a direct appropriation of $13.5 million in the California state budget to fund wildfire prevention and fuel reduction needs in the East Bay hills.
The appropriation was proposed by Senator Nancy Skinner of Berkeley, Senator Bob Wieckowski of Fremont, and Assemblywoman Rebecca Bauer-Kahan of Orinda.
Ten million dollars will be used to remove dead and dying trees, a concerning development that has been detected especially in Anthony Chabot and Reinhardt Redwood Regional Parks in Oakland, Miller-Knox Regional Shoreline in Richmond, and Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley.
The remaining $3.5 million will be used to purchase equipment that will improve the district’s ability to fight fires, including the replacement of the district’s aging helicopter, which is used to drop water on fires burning in inaccessible terrain.
“We are so thankful for the support and leadership of our legislators in the East Bay, especially Senators Skinner and Wieckowski and Assemblywoman Bauer-Kahan, for recognizing the severity of the sudden tree die-off issue and providing funding to address it,” said Park District Board President Dee Rosario.
First noticed in the East Bay in October of 2020, sudden tree die-off is affecting many varieties of trees throughout California, including eucalyptus, acacia, bay and pine. The estimated cost to remove the dead or dying trees in the district is $30 million based on current tree removal contracts.
“EBRPD has more than 1,500 acres of dead or dying trees affected by drought and climate change conditions that need immediate attention,” said EBRPD Fire Chief Aileen Theile. “These state funds couldn’t come at a better time, as we are shovel ready.”
According to firefighters, dead trees burn hotter, faster and are more likely to cast embers downwind, igniting potentially dangerous new fires. And many of the park areas experiencing die-off are old eucalyptus plantations with a very high tree density.
Wildfire protection is a year-round effort for the park district. Ongoing projects include regular fuels reduction, professionally trained full-time and on-call wildland firefighters, and remote automated weather stations that help monitor wildfire risks so that fire staff and resources can be deployed efficiently.
In the past ten years, EBRPD has invested $20.5 million in its fuel reduction efforts to keep the East Bay hills safer from wildfire threats.
There’s a lot going on at regional park district visitor centers during the last weekend in July.
For example, swimming salmon cycles is the program theme on Saturday, July 31 at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley. It’s all about the salmon life cycle and why the Delta is so important for salmon survival. The Big Break naturalists also will set up interactive stream tables to show how water moves through California from the Sierra to the sea.
The program is geared for children two and up and their caregivers, but all ages are welcome.
Various COVID-19 safety protocols are in effect. All visitors over two years of age must wear a face mask during the program. A minimum distance of six feet from those outside your household is required, and up to six people from one household are allowed per group. All group members must arrive together. Participants under 18 must have a chaperone. Thirty-minute programs start at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and noon.
The program is free, but registration is required. To register, call (888)327-2757, option 2. Same-day registration onsite is also available, space permitting. For a full list of nature programs, visit the park district website at www.ebparks.org.
The potential of the space travel industry
Kailash Kalidoss, Aerospace Enthusiast
Photo source: nasa.gov
This month has shown us that “space travel” can be expanded to the non-astronaut consumer. Two players, namely Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic and Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin, have already tested their baby steps in sending the common man and woman to experience space, albeit only for a short duration. Space X and Elon Musk have high hopes for space tourism with their Starship architecture.
Building spaceships with current technology would have been simply impossible a decade or two back, but partnerships and synergy from private companies, marrying expertise sourced from the space agencies, are making space tourism possible. The advancement in space technologies has just started to accelerate with the private enterprises and in the next two decades, humans experiencing space will be comparable to launching a satellite into orbit.
Like all endeavors, space tourism will have to look at the market and especially the economics. Up till now, the very few space tourists (orbital) have been Billionaires or multi-millionaires as the ticket price is eight figures. The number of people with the financial resources and health that can undertake a trip like the above is extremely limited. They currently fall in the Ultra-high-net-worth individuals (UHNWI) bracket.
With the Branson model, Virgin Galactic plans to start taking people to space on its SpaceShipTwo next year. The 90-minute flights cost $250,000, and passengers will experience a few minutes of weightlessness and be able to see the earth from space. This is very similar to a flight in the so-called Vomit Comet aircraft that mimics weightlessness for 20–30 seconds at a time. (The Virgin experience is 2–3 minutes.)
The space travel industry is more than just sub-orbital flights. Houston-based Orion Span Inc. hopes to launch the modular station in late 2021 and welcome its first guests the following year, with two crew members accompanying each excursion. The platform would orbit 200 miles above Earth, offering six guests 384 sunrises and sunsets as they race around the planet for 12 days at 5 miles per second all for the reasonable per nightly charge of $792,000. The cost to orbit and return has to be factored in.
Also, safety may be a concern for a significant number of consumers. Rockets and space flight are just too expensive, let alone dangerous. So, the big question: Will orbital space flight ever be available to the average person on earth? No, I cannot see how in the near term. But things can improve with mass adoption, mass production, and economies of scale in the long term. But for these to even remotely kick in, Safety should be made paramount and operations have to be streamlined. The aeronautics industry has been a front runner in proving that cost-efficiency can be achieved. I predict that eventually, it may get to a figure that is affordable by high net worth individuals with $5,000,000 in assets, but not much lower in the medium to long term.
Kailash Kalidoss is an aerospace enthusiast and educator serving the Bay Area. Kailash first fell in love with aerospace as a teenager when he learned about aviation from his father’s role as a Ground Operations Manager. Kailash has since spent his efforts sharing knowledge about aerospace, astronautics, aviation, science and technology, and of course, the night sky. Kailash also represents the Civil Air Patrol and NASA as a volunteer.
Tri-City History Queries No. 7
By Kelsey Camello, for the Washington Township Museum of Local History
Q: What was happening in July 1907?
A: Excerpts from The Washington Press, a newspaper out of Niles (Fremont), July 20, 1907
NEWARK – – “The latest town in the township to make its modest little bow to the public and invite attention is Newark. […] The Dumbarton Bridge is actually being built. […] Nothing under the sun can prevent Newark from growing to be a great railroad terminal and junction. […] Newark has a little harbor of its own at Jarvis Landing. This landing has been famous for over a half century, in fact it was the landing used by the Padres during the flourishing days of the old Mission San Jose.” The paper goes on to mention James Graham Manufacturing Company, home of the famous Wedgewood range, The Middleton Foundry, The California Timber Co., and the Pacific Land Investment Company.
CENTERVILE – – “The new stores are growing rapidly and will soon be very substantial additions to our modest little town.” “The Catholic Sewing Society is preparing for a bazaar to be held in September.” “The fall term of the Union High School No. 2 (Washington High School) will open on Monday August 5.” Included: Advertisements for P.C. Hansen & Co. for lumber, coal, hay, grain, feed and shells; Mrs. Coram’s for ice cream “open all day and everyday;” George Bontelho for undertaking and embalming; George Gregory for funeral directing and embalming. And finally, the fourth semi-annual statement of the Bank of Centerville, with assets totaling about $252,000.
IRVINGTON – – “W.H. Jackson, Merchant Tailor – the latest style and a perfect fit guaranteed.” “Dr. J. H. Durham, Dentist – gas given.” “Irvington Meat Market [for] nothing but the best of beef, mutton, pork, lamb, sausage, lard, etc.., [with] free delivery in Washington Township.”
NILES – – “Choice pigs for sale [from] California Nursery Company.” Not figs, pigs! “Niles dedicated her first factory building last evening.” “Choice fresh homemade candy at ‘The Palm Candy Store’.” “T.J. Sullivan thinks Niles needs a plumbing shop, and therefore offers free rent of [one] lot for one year to any plumber who will come to Niles.” “Lots for sale in the Sullivan Tract, 50 x 150 ft.” “Major Tilden of Alameda was a visitor in Niles this week.” In the 1930s, Charles Lee “Major” Tilden spearheaded the creation of the East Bay Regional Park District. He also served as the first President of the Board in 1934.
DECOTO – – “A threshing machine has been installed in the Vagar field where it is kept busy threshing pea vines for seed.” “The morning train carries quite a delegation of young people to the canneries at Hayward and San Lorenzo.” “Excursion rates to Pleasanton for the races.”
ALVARADO – – Alameda Sugar Company, also known as the California Sugar Beet Company or Holly Sugar Company, makes a threat regarding possible relocation from Alvarado to ‘any place but here’ due to exorbitant railroad freight rates from Pleasanton to Alvarado. The proposal at-hand is for the installment of an underground pipeline from Pleasanton directly into the factory itself. The elevation of Pleasanton being higher than that of Alvarado is noted as a key factor in favor of this “simple gravity system.”
Read the entire issue for yourself by visiting: https://californiarevealed.org/islandora/object/cavpp%3A49832.
Have a local history question of your own? Email us at in**@mu******************.org. Be sure to include ‘Tri-City History Queries’ in the subject line.
Chabot Space unveils NASA Experience
By Stephanie Gertsch
The countdown has started to Chabot Space and Science Center’s reopening in November 2021. On July 20, the center invited the media to see renovations that have been going on while the facility has been closed during the pandemic. When the center reopens to the public, guests will see a new visitor center for NASA’s Ames Research Center (“The NASA Experience”), including a 3,600-square-foot gallery sponsored by Fremont Bank Foundation (“Fremont Bank Studio 1”).
Vivian Yeung, Chief Digital & Technology Officer at Fremont Bank said, “For Fremont Bank Foundation, we are looking for ways to participate and sponsor areas of education, and this really well aligned for us and Chabot. One of the mantras at Fremont Bank is success through partnership. And this partnership with Chabot Space and Science Center truly gives an opportunity for folks of all ages to learn, appreciate space discovery and exploration.”
At the July 20 event, representatives from Chabot Space, NASA Ames Research Center, Fremont Bank, and the Oakland School District spoke about opportunities collaboration will create for young people in the Bay Area.
Adam Tobin, Executive Director and CEO of Chabot Space said, “Imagine connecting internship programs at NASA to youth development programs at Chabot to learning programs within the district. Imagine programs at Chabot where there’s deep dive learning, academy programs, youth development programs that lead to job fairs, that lead to explicit opportunities.”
Gary Yee, District 4 Director for the Oakland Unified School District Board of Education, also spoke at the event: “I got to meet the Fremont Bank people and I said to them, ‘Why are you interested in this Chabot exhibit? You’re from Fremont!’ They said, ‘We are a community bank and we care about the kids and we care about the future.’”
Eugene Tu, Ames Research Center Director, talked about his own experience growing up in Berkeley and studying at UC Berkeley and Stanford. “I know firsthand what this type of opportunity can do, especially for the young folks. I spent many hours, many days, in institutions like Chabot exploring my passion in science, engineering, and aviation and space.”
After the ceremony, two models of NASA Ames robots that will be part of the visitor center were unveiled. Dubbed SPHERES and Astrobee, IBA (intra vehicular activities) robots are designed to float around inside space ships and perform mundane tasks such as taking inventory and recording videos of research to save astronaut’s time. Both SPHERES and Astrobee have been tested on the International Space Station.
Students from Chabot Space’s Galaxy Explorers Program highlighted prototypes of interactive exhibits in the area that will be Fremont Bank Studio 1. Guests experimented with spectroscopy, tested a miniature wind tunnel, and made a comet from dry ice.
It will be a few more months before the general public will get to check out the completed visitor center. Until then, Chabot Space is continuing to offer virtual telescope viewings on Saturday nights via Facebook Live and YouTube, and “Sunset Science” demonstrations outside on the observation deck. Check out their website and social media pages to stay updated.
Website: https://chabotspace.org/
Instagram: @chabotspace
Facebook: @ChabotSpace
Bay Cities FC Weekend!
Submitted by Niamh Lambert
Photo Credit: Jenna Courter
On June 17, 2021, Bay Cities FC invited a few Fremont Rush players to help and participate in a match with Oakland Root’s “Project 510” at Sequoia High Stadium. The players were able to meet professional players, walk on the field to open the match, and act as ball handlers throughout the game. The opportunity also allowed some players to witness their first high-level game among professional athletes.
Before the game, two players were asked what they were most excited about that day. Melody Zhang (2009 girls) said, “I’m ready to see my first live game. I’m excited to be a ball girl and see the game up close.” William Shao (2013 boys) said, “I’m super excited to watch the game on the field and be so close to all the players.”
To begin the day, Fremont Rush players walked onto the pitch with Bay Cities FC’s starting lineup. Once everyone was on the field, players stood side by side and the national anthem was played. It was a joy to see our players stand inches apart from professional athletes. It’s these small moments that help build future camaraderie between clubs.
When the game started, players were spread out across the side lines and shagged any ball that exited the pitch. They would then toss the balls back to players so the match could continue.
A few players talked about their first-time ball-handler experience for this specific game.
“The game was awesome, and it was fun to get balls for the teams,” said Sakiko Itoi. Tatiana Estrada said, “It was awesome to be on the sideline and help players from both teams.”
This experience was like no other that our players had encountered before. As we move into post-pandemic activity, it’s exciting to see our players attend and participate with professional clubs like Bay City FC to spark their competitive soccer enthusiasm.
A big Fremont Rush thank you goes out to Bay Cities FC for making the day so special!
Palawan Heritage Center features Palawan artist
Submitted by Bruce Roberts, Hayward Arts Council Board member and Hayward Poet Laureate
For nearly 40 years, the Hayward Arts Council (HAC) has been a centerpiece for art in Hayward. Operating several galleries around town for local artists to display their work, HAC has worked hard to keep Hayward art alive.
Now, however, this artistic center of a diverse community is embracing a new challenge—international art. With the help of Arts Council member and Hayward resident Lani Lamido, a connection has been established with the Palawan Heritage Center and Museum of the Philippines. Lamido has arranged a virtual display of the paintings of renowned artist Leonard Bulquerin Ansiong.
Ansiong focuses on the indigenous faces and natural scenery of the Palawan Province of the Philippines. Indigenous children are his chief subject, and he paints them with detail and sensitivity to mood. A companion topic is the natural beauty—the lakes and streams and lush greenery—of Palawan. And what is truly remarkable is that Ansiong is self-taught. His talent is all his own.
To Lani Lamido, and HAC, this exhibit is a major step to promote the Philippines’ indigenous artists, supporting diversity and artistic collaboration between Hayward and the rest of the world. Lamido hopes this will inspire young artists in Palawan to keep embracing the arts, despite competition from technology and social media.
So, between July 1 and September 30, 2021, visit haywardartscouncil.org to enrich your knowledge of art throughout the earth.
Palawan Heritage Center virtual exhibition
Through Thursday, September 30
Exhibition Link: https://www.haywardartscouncil.org/solo-shows/palawan-show
https://www.haywardartscouncil.org/
National Night Out 2021
By Gelsey Plaza
National Night Out, an annual nationwide event to help strengthen communities, raise crime prevention awareness, and foster relationships with public safety, will take place on August 3, the first Tuesday of the month. Neighborhoods, complexes, businesses, and shopping centers are encouraged to participate in this community-building event. Hosting a gathering or block party gives an opportunity for citizens to connect with community members and explore how they can improve the safety of and quality of life in their neighborhoods.
According to Interim Chief Communications Officer Geneva Bosques, Fremont already has 58 parties registered as of July 14, 2021. In previous years, the city would average about 130-140 parties per year. Although the city anticipated a lower number this year in light of COVID, Fremont decided to put on the event after many community members asked about it.
In regards to COVID precautions, all City staff must wear a mask when in contact with the public or with each other while working, regardless of vaccination status. It is up to individual citizens whether they choose to be masked or not. As always, residents are encouraged to implement any safety precautions they feel necessary and that align with current COVID state guidelines.
According to Bosques, the Fremont Police Department (FPD) has had a strong relationship with the community. “We look forward to being out in the community this summer at special events that are planned throughout the city,” Bosques said. “We are also making ourselves available in other ways. We are hosting several community conversations throughout the city with our incoming police chief [Sean Washington], we’ve held virtual community educational meetings over the last couple months, and we’re attending several upcoming youth sporting events. We’re always open and available to meet with community groups of all sizes, and encourage anyone wanting to meet with members of FPD to contact our Community Engagement Unit.”
Bosques states that National Night Out is first and foremost an opportunity for neighbors to get to know one another. “We know that when relationships are developed between residents, that transcends into strong neighborhoods, where community members watch out for one another and care for each other on a deeper level,” Bosques said. “It’s the same goal as Neighborhood Crime Watch. Second, the event allows residents an opportunity to have casual conversations with police staff in a small setting where they can feel comfortable and safe to ask questions or [share] concerns.”
National Night Out is a chance to bring neighborhoods together with the men and women who protect them, according to a quote from President Joe Biden posted on natw.org.
“The safety of our communities depends on both law enforcement and the neighbors they serve,” Biden said. “National Night Out enhances that cooperation.”
As of July 20, the local cities that are organizing National Night Out events are: San Leandro, Newark, Fremont, and Milpitas (Milpitas will hold their event on Thursday, August 5). Check each city’s website to get more information on how to register your neighborhood party.
National Night Out 2021
Tuesday, Aug 3 (Aug 5 in Milpitas)
Times and locations vary; check your city’s website.
Washington Hospital Receives Third Consecutive Magnet Recognition
Submitted by Gisela Hernandez
The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), which recognizes health care organizations nationwide for nursing excellence, announced that Washington Hospital Healthcare System has achieved Magnet® Recognition for the third consecutive time. It’s an achievement that confirms Washington Hospital’s dedication to excellence in nursing and shows its commitment to quality patient care and the Patient First Ethic.
The ANCC’s Magnet Recognition Program® is considered the gold standard for nursing excellence in health care. It recognizes health care organizations for superior patient care, nursing excellence and innovations in professional nursing practice. Magnet Recognition is maintained through a rigorous re-application and evaluation process every four years.
“Today’s news is very exciting and I could not be prouder,” said Kimberly Hartz, Chief Executive Officer. “Our nursing staff is known for upholding the highest standards of nursing, and they are true collaborators in providing compassionate and the highest quality of care for our patients. This is an earned and well-deserved honor.”
As of May 2021, fewer than 9% of American hospitals have achieved the recognition, placing Washington Hospital among the nation’s elite.
“This honor doesn’t just recognize our extraordinary nurses,” said Hartz, “but also the entire Washington Hospital team. From nurses to physicians, and staff at every level, Magnet recognition cannot be achieved without everyone’s participation. I am sincerely proud of our team for the many patient-focused achievements that are part of our daily Magnet journey.”
Fremont City Council
July 20, 2021
Consent Calendar:
• Second reading and adoption of an ordinance of the city of Fremont amending Fremont Municipal Code to amend the use table for the downtown district.)
• Delegating Authority to City Manager during City Council Recess, July 21, 2021 through September 3, 2021.
• Authorize an Agreement with Bay Area Community Services for their Wellness Center to provide homeless persons with housing placement and dignity services
• Approval of certification and Mutual Indemnification Agreement with the County of Alameda regarding collection of taxes and assessments on the Fiscal Year 2021/22 Secured Property Tax Bill.
• Award a construction contract in the amount of $191,620 to Diversified Power Corporation, Inc., for the Centerville Community Park Tennis Court Lighting Project.
• Approve the purchase of Ford fleet vehicles in an amount not to exceed $975,000 and various make vehicles in an amount not to exceed $775,000.
• Authorize contract with Alameda County Behavioral Health and La Familia to provide mental health services.
• Authorize contract with Alameda County Health Care Services Agency for health promotion services.
• Approve Final Map, agreements for construction of public and private improvements for Tract 8512, located at 41354 Roberts Avenue.
• Authorize a $182,191 agreement for FY 2021/22 with Alameda County Health Care Services Agency to Support Human Services Programs, Including the Fremont Family Resource Center Family Support Services program and Youth and Family Services Division’s Why Try Cognitive Behavioral Groups program.
• Accept and appropriate FM Global Fire Prevention Grant Funds for $2,700 to Purchase Digital Cameras.
• Set the Annual Tax Rate for Voter-Approved General Obligation Bonds Debt Service for Fiscal Year 2021/22.
• Initiate proceeding to vacate a portion of Niles Boulevard and set a public hearing on September 7, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. PASSED 6-1 (Nay, Kassan)
Public Communications:
• Carl Guardino, Executive Vice President of Bloom Energy invited council and others to Stars and Strides Community Run at Discovery Meadow in San Jose on Sunday, August 22nd to support and celebrate front-line hospital workers and patients they serve. Virtual participation is available as well. Registration at www.starsandstridesrun.com
• Bike Fremont representative commented on concerns and misconceptions about traffic calming project on Paseo Padre Parkway due to return to a future council meeting.
• Hazardous and unsightly camping on Kato Road.
Items Removed from Consent Calendar:
• Approve agreements to procure equipment and systems from Western Systems, Iteris, Inc., CT West, and Econolite, Totaling $3,524,157.98 for the Fremont Boulevard Safe and Smart Corridor Project. (Removed by Public) PASSED 6-0-1 (Recusal: Salwan)
• Terminate the Covid-19 Local Emergency and Resolution ratifying the Executive Order of the Director of Emergency Services repealing the City’s Residential Eviction Executive Order upon the termination of the Alameda County Local Emergency. County moratorium takes precedence. (Removed by Kassan) PASSED 5-2 (Nay: Kassan, Keng)
Scheduled Items:
• Approve the vacation of the dedicated emergency vehicle access easements within Parcels 1, 2, 3 and 4 of Parcel Map No. 7794 in the Ardenwood Business District.
• Adopt a Resolution Amend the Civil Penalties Schedule.
Other Business:
• Update on Safe Parking Program design elements: criteria, screening, rules and standards for participation. PASSED 6-1 (Nay: Cox)
Mayor Lily Mei Aye
Vice Mayor Yang Shao, District 4 Aye
Teresa Keng, District 1 Aye, 1 Nay
Rick Jones, District 2 Aye
Jenny Kassan, District 3 Aye, 2 Nay
Raj Salwan, District 5 Aye, 1 recusal
Teresa Cox, District 6 Aye, 1 Nay
Fremont Unified School District Board Meeting
July 21, 2021
Approved Administrative Appointments:
• Nathania Chaney-Aiello, Principal, Irvington High School
• Assistant Principal: Glynis Mason, Assistant Principal, Irvington High School/Horner Middle School
Received in-person instruction update:
• FUSD remains on track to full-time in-person instruction for the 2021-2022 school year as the default model of instruction, and provide virtual learning academies for students who may require non-in-person instruction while ensuring local and state COVID-19 mitigations are in place.
Received the 2021-22 final state budget and FUSD 45-day update:
• No major changes in the unrestricted revenues for FUSD as a result of the enacted state budget. Proposition 98 remains the same at $93.7 billion.
School Resource Officers:
• Board voted 4-1 to authorize the Superintendent to enter into Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Fremont for School Resource Officer services for July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2023.
Temporary Classrooms:
• Authorized staff to extend leases for temporary classrooms at six schools for 2021-2022 with Mobile Modular Management Corporation.
Theater Renovation:
• Approved a budget increase on the Washington High School Theater Improvements Project which is 65% complete, but has several items that are required to be completed due to unforeseen conditions and changes required by Division of the State Architects. Current project budget: $3,900,000, board approved 03/27/19; additional budget authorization: $500,000, board approved 02/24/21; additional budget authorization $250,000, pending board approval 07/21/21. Updated project budget: $4,650,000.
Training Programs:
• Approved a two-year license renewal for the Lexia Suite of Programs for Grades TK-12 at a cost of $860,110.
• Approved professional development funds for I-Ready Training for the 2021-22 school year.
The Board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 25 at 6:30 p.m.
Larry Sweeny
Diane Jones
Vivek Prasad
Yajing Zhang
Desrie Campbell
Pilot programs to expand youth access to state parks
Submitted by Daisy Vieyra, Office of the First Partner
Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation on July 22 to advance the state’s commitment to equitable access to California State Parks. Championed by First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, whose California for ALL Kids initiatives support children’s physical, mental, and social-emotional well-being, the legislation establishes a pilot program to give every fourth grader a free annual pass to select California State Parks.
“Nature is a public good and a crucial public health tool. For adults and children alike, quality time in nature is good for our hearts, minds, and bodies,” said First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom. “No state is better-positioned than California to leverage the great outdoors to augment our communities’ health and well-being — especially for youth in underserved communities.”
AB 148 establishes the California State Park Adventure Pass, a three-year pilot program that waives day-use entrance fees to 19 state parks for fourth graders and their families for a full year. Earlier this month, the Governor also signed SB 129, legislation that includes $5.6 million to fund the new State Park Adventure Pass as well as $3 million to establish the State Library Park Pass, a new two-year pilot program to provide state park passes to libraries across the state that may be checked out by library patrons to gain free day-use access to state parks.
“Access to nature is a crucial component to the health and well-being of our kids, and these outdoor access pilot programs set us on a path to expand access to nature and benefit children’s health,” said California Natural Resources Agency Secretary Wade Crowfoot. “I am very excited to continue working with the First Partner and California State Parks to reduce barriers and expand access to state parks for kids and residents from park-poor communities.”
In 2019, the First Partner and the California State Parks Foundation launched Pathways to Parks, an initiative to bridge the nature gap and expand park access for California youth. Since then, the First Partner has met with California youth, state parks advocates, and community leaders to learn more about the positive impacts the outdoors has on young people’s physical and mental health.
San Leandro City Council
July 19, 2021
Recognitions:
• Commendation Honoring Ms. Claire Cooke for representing San Leandro at the 2021 Miss Teen USA California Pageant.
• Proclamation recognizing Victor Lemmon, Senior Engineering Aide, for his years of service to the City of San Leandro.
• Recognition of the Employee of the Quarter, Shonette Leite, Administrative Assistant I, Information Technology Division.
• Resolution appointing Chong Hong as District 6 Representative to the Recreation and Parks Commission for term ending December 31, 2024.
Public Comments:
• Consider an option to preserve remote public comments made during in-person meetings online and make them accessible to the public.
• Acknowledgement of funds appropriated for police oversight and mental health services.
• Suggestion to create a Department of Human Services for mental health workers.
• Requests to consider banning the sale of menthol cigarettes in the City of San Leandro.
Public Hearing and Vote:
• Resolution to adopt the 2021 Climate Action Plan and an Addendum to the 2035 General Plan Update Final Environmental Impact Report. Motion unanimously adopted.
• Resolution to impose liens for non-payment of delinquent 2021 solid waste service charges, Certified Unified Program Agency (CUPA) fees, code compliance administrative penalties and charges, planning permit fees, and sidewalk repairs. Motion unanimously adopted.
Consent Calendar:
• Approve minutes of the June 17 Disaster Council Meeting.
• Approve minutes of the June 21 and July 6 City Council Meeting.
• Approve minutes of the June 28 special City Council Meeting.
• Resolution to approve a non-professional services agreement with Redwood Painting Company, Inc for $304,763 for the Water Pollution Control Plant Structure Recoating Project; to authorize individual contract amendments up to 10% ($30,476); and to negotiate and approve contract amendments up to a cumulative value not to exceed 20% ($60,953); and to appropriate $365,716 from the Water Pollution Control Plant Enterprise Fund Balance Reserve for the purpose of structure recoating.
• Resolution to execute amendment No. 1 to non-professional services agreement with Steve’s Pool Service for annual pool maintenance for an additional $59,500, per year, for Fiscal Years 2021-2022 and 2022-2023.
• Resolution to execute amendment No. 3 to the non-professional services agreement with Flagship Facility Services, Inc. for citywide janitorial services for an amount not to exceed $773,018.64 plus $23,223.57 for additional unscheduled services for Fiscal Year 2021-2022 and approve an appropriation of $93,697 from the Building Maintenance Fund unrestricted fund balance.
• Resolution to execute an agreement amendment and novation with MuniServices for examination of sales or transactions and use tax records.
• Resolution to execute a consulting services agreement with Rincon Consultants, Inc. to prepare the 2023-2031 (Sixth Cycle) Housing Element Update, Related General Plan and Zoning Code Amendments, and Associated Environmental Impact Report; and to appropriate $300,000 in LEAP, $47,400 in REAP, and $152,600 in planning fee funding for the agreement.
• Resolution extending the confirmation of a proclamation of Local Emergency and State of Emergency by the city’s Director of Emergency Services Pursuant to California Government Code Section 8630 and Public Contract Code Section 22050(c) because of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Action Items
• Resolution to approve the allocation of city affordable housing funding sources to Abode Communities for acquisition and new construction of a proposed 72-unit affordable housing project at 15101 Washington Avenue in an amount not to exceed $7,000,000 ($5,015,000 from Alameda County Measure A-1 Bond funding; $349,960 from California Housing and Community Development Permanent Local Housing Allocation; and $1,635,040 from the City Low-Mod Housing Asset Fund). Motion unanimously adopted.
• Resolution designating Councilmember Bryan Azevedo as voting delegate and Vice Mayor Victor Aguilar as alternate delegate for the League of California Cities 2021 Annual Conference. Motion unanimously adopted.
Mayor Pauline Russo Cutter Aye
Pete Ballew Aye
Vice Mayor Victor Aguilar Aye
Bryan Azevedo Aye
Fred Simon Aye
Deborah Cox Aye
Corina Lopez Aye
Redistricting Commission appoints final five members
Submitted by the Office of Communications and Public Affairs
The County of Santa Clara’s 2021 Advisory Redistricting Commission selected the final five members to fulfill the 15-member panel. The 10 previously appointed members selected the remaining five members, one from each County supervisorial district, during the July 21 meeting. The applicant pool for the five-seats came from the remaining candidates who applied to the commission in May 2021. The last five appointed advisory commission members from each district, are:
• Maria Pineda, District 1
• Katie Swenson, District 2
• Edwin Tan, District 3
• Daniel Nguyen, District 4
• Raven Malone, District 5
Previously appointed commission members, two from each district:
• Cynthia Cooper, District 1
• Bob Staedler, District 2
• Mario Burnias, District 3
• Juan Pedro Velazquez, District 4
• Dana Tom, District 5
• Dolores Alvarado, District 1
• Peter Pham, District 2
• Nancy Smith, District 3
• Laura McAllister, District 4
• Katie Zoglin, District 5
Biographical information for each Advisory Commission member can be found on the County’s Redistricting website at https://countyexec.sccgov.org/2021-redistricting-process/2021-advisory-redistricting-commissioners.
The Board of Supervisors established the formation of a 15-member advisory commission to hold public hearings to collect community input and recommend to the Board updated placement of the supervisorial district boundaries. This includes significant public outreach in August and September to identify communities of interest and to conduct community mapping sessions in October. The Board of Supervisors is expected to consider maps in November and vote on the final maps on Dec. 7 during a regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors.
Commission meetings will be held virtually every two weeks at 6:30 p.m., from July – September. In October, meetings will occur weekly. The public is invited to participate and comment. The commission will also hold a joint meeting with the Board of Supervisors in the fall.
Meetings:
Aug. 4, Aug. 18
Sept. 1, Sept. 22, and Sept. 29
Oct. 6, Oct. 13, Oct. 20, and Oct. 27
For more information: www.sccgov.org/2021redistricting
Wood flooring Q&A
By Anna Jacoby
Dear Anna,
I have questions about flooring, in particular about wood flooring. Can you please help?
A: Of course! I’ll do my best.
Q: What are the best floors for kitchens that can be used for the whole house?
A: In general, when I create my designs, I prefer to use the fewest number of flooring types as possible. That means finding one type of floor I can use throughout the main living areas, including the kitchen. (Sometimes I put carpet in the bedrooms, and usually tile in the bathrooms.) Most of the houses we live in are not huge, so using one main type of flooring can make a house look larger and make your overall design more cohesive. In most cases, wood flooring fits the bill perfectly. It’s attractive, durable, and works with virtually any design style.
Q: Will wood floors hold up?
A: Well, this depends on your lifestyle, as well as your tolerance for maintenance and “imperfections.” If the flooring is good quality, with a good sealer or top coat, maintenance is simple. It’s just a matter of sweeping and periodic wiping with a barely-damp mop or hardwood cleaner. However, I won’t lie to you— hardwood will scratch! And water can damage it. If your kitchen is open to your backyard where you have a pool, for example, wood floor might not be the best choice. And if you have pets with sharp claws, wood also may not be your best bet. However, water drops from washing dishes or spills generally will not damage a floor if wiped up right away. And it’s always a good idea to put little felt pads under dining chairs to avoid scratches.
Q: I still really like the idea of wood floors. Are there “scratch-resistant” woods I should consider?
A: Harder woods like hickory, maple and oak are less susceptible to scratches than softer woods like pine, cherry or walnut. Maple is used on professional basketball courts, so that tells you how durable that wood species is! Wood with more dramatic grain patterns helps hide scratches. Less shiny (satin or matte) finishes will hide more imperfections than highly polished ones. Lighter floors will also hide scratches (and dust, and pet hair) better than darker floors.
Q: I’m afraid of real hardwood— what are my alternatives?
A: You’re in luck, as there are some terrific wood-look alternatives, including porcelain “wood” tile planks, laminates and vinyl planks. The popularity of laminates and vinyl has exploded, mainly because they are cost effective, and so very practical. There are water-resistant, and even waterproof options, and they are a lot more scratch-resistant, making them an excellent choice for busy households. Wood-look porcelain tile is beautiful too, and extremely durable, but definitely costlier. I love to use wood-look tile in bathrooms, and I’ve done several projects recently where we used waterproof laminate or vinyl planks throughout the entire house, including the bathrooms. The variety of styles of all three products is amazing— all wood species and colors are represented. And they look quite realistic.
Q: If I pick wood floors and wood cabinets, won’t it look like “too much wood”?
A: I get asked this a lot. But consider a forest where a variety of trees are growing. Different woods complement each other, and it’s OK to mix them. What I aim for in my designs is contrast. If the floors are light, then the cabinets should be darker, and vice versa. And they should be purposely different woods. If you do oak floors, oak cabinets, and oak furniture, that’s too much wood. However, combining oak floors with cherry cabinets and a walnut dining table keeps the space a lot more interesting. Wood grain can be busy looking, especially in its natural state. Staining it a darker color can obscure some of the grain and make it appear less busy. If the wood you like is particularly busy looking, like hickory, for example, then consider using painted cabinets instead of wood ones. It’s like wearing a solid color shirt with patterned pants.
Q: What is “in” right now?
A: Anyone who works with me knows that my advice is to select what makes the most sense for the family’s taste and lifestyle, what works best with the style of the house, and what coordinates best with existing furnishings. Not to simply pick whatever is trendy at the moment. That said, the current trends are leaning toward mid-tone to lighter woods, matte finishes, and wide planks. If you plan to sell your house in the next year or two, then going with these looks might make the most sense. But if you plan to live in your house for a while, pick what you like!
It’s A Date
CONTINUING EVENTS:
Mondays, August 2 – Sept. 27
Let’s Keep It Moving!
10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Zoom -Exercise while seated or standing
To register: http://bit.ly/AgeWellClasses
(510) 790-6602
Tuesdays
Practice Your Spoken English
4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Talk with native English speakers about everyday topics in a friendly, welcoming setting
Via Zoom
https://aclibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/search/index
Wednesdays
First Presbyterian Church of Newark Virtual Youth Group
7 p.m.
Youth and young adults, students welcome
Contact: br***@ne*********.org for Zoom Meeting ID#
www.newarkpres.org
Thursdays
San Lorenzo Street Eats
5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Food trucks
500 Via Mercado, San Lorenzo
https://www.thefoodtruckmafia.com
Fridays
Castro Valley Street Eats
5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Food trucks and live music – support The Chabot Theater
Parking lot behind Trader Joe’s
2490 Grove Way, Castro Valley
https://www.thefoodtruckmafia.com
Fridays
Fremont Street Eats
5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Food trucks and live music
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
https://www.thefoodtruckmafia.com
Saturdays
Virtual Telescope Viewing R
9:30 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Free on Facebook Live
Join resident astronomers live from Chabot’s observation deck
https://chabotspace.org/calendar/
Saturdays
Comedy Shows R$
8 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Improv by Made Up Theatre’s comedy troupe – Live and Online!
Proof of vaccination or negative Covid test required for entry
4000 Bay St., Suite B, Fremont
(510) 573-3633
Sundays
Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church Family Service
10 a.m.
Via ZOOM
For link, call (510) 471-2581
Sundays
First Presbyterian Church of Newark Worship Services
9:30 a.m.; Worship Service In-Person or Online
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9NxtyzVaehQJHwLlpwPWlw
35450 Newark Blvd., Newark
www.newarkpres.org
Sundays
St. Anne’s Episcopal Church Service
10 a.m.
In person or via Zoom
2791 Driscoll Rd., Fremont
www.stanneschurch.org
Third Thursday each month
Chronic Pain Support Group
12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Request link: nj*****@fr*****.gov
Thursday, March 18 – Monday September 6
Immersive Van Gogh
9 a.m. – 11 p.m. (times vary)
Walk-in exhibit with digital projections and music
SVN West San Francisco
10 South Van Ness Ave., San Francisco
Tickets: $24.99 – $39.99
www.vangoghsf.com
Sundays, June 27 – August 15
St. Anne’s Episcopal Church
12 noon – 1:30 p.m.
Afternoon discussion – change frustrating conversations into better ones!
In person or via Zoom
2791 Driscoll Rd., Fremont
(510) 490-0553
Tuesday, July 6 – Saturday, July 31
Silent No More: A history of anti-Asian discrimination
Mixed media art exhibit by Chinese-American artist Cathy Quon
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
www.cqcreations.net
Thursday, July 8 – Sunday, October 3
Olive Hyde Art Guild Members Juried Show
Virtual juried show of local artists
Virtual exhibit: https://www.fremont.gov/3871/2021-Exhibition-Calendar
In-person Gallery Dates: July 29 – October 3
Thursday – Sunday, 12 noon – 5 p.m.
https://olivehydeartguild.org/
Thursday, July 29 – Thursday, August 19
Central Park Summer Concert Series
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Presented by Washington Hospital, Lanner USA, and Fremont Bank
Concert Schedule:
July 29 – Carnaval (Santana tribute)
August 5 – Journey Revisited (Journey tribute)
August 12 – David Martin’s House Party (Premier Party Band)
August 19 – East Bay Mudd (R&B hits)
Central Park Performance Pavilion
40204 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
https://www.fremont.gov/concerts
Friday, July 16 – Sunday, August 8
The Four Poster $R
Fri/Sat: 8 p.m.; Sun: 6 p.m.
Streaming available anytime
Two-person play chronicling a couple’s married life
Castro Valley Community Theatre
3683 Quail Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 733-5483
https://chanticleers.org/
Mondays – Saturdays
Grab & Go Craft Kits
Fremont Main Library, Centerville Library, Union City Library
Check library for hours
Crafts are a fun way to let kids be creative
Tuesdays and Thursdays in July
Music For Minors II Preschool Music Program $
10:00 a.m.– 10:45 a.m.
Preschool age distance learning and sing-a-longs
Via Zoom
www.mfm2preschool.org
Second Saturdays, July – December
Talkin’ Dirt
8/14, 9/11, 10/9, 11/13, 12/11
9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Free webinar on gardening, hosted by LEAF
Via Zoom
https://bit.ly/3hsOGKG
Fridays, August 6 and August 20
Music at the Grove
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
August 6: Big Bang Beat
August 20: Cisco Kid
Gates open at 4 p.m. – bring a low-back chair or blanket and enjoy the sounds of summer
Shirley Sisk Grove
Cedar Blvd at Newpark Mall, Newark
Wednesdays, September 15 – November 17
2021 Citizen Police Academy
5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
A free look at how the Newark Police Department operates
Deadline to apply is 8/25
www.newark.org/departments/citizen-police-academy
Questions: Beverly Ryans, (510) 578-4352 or be***********@ne****.org
37101 Newark Blvd., Newark
UPCOMING
Tuesday, July 27
Free drive-through COVID-19 vaccine
12 noon
For Ohlone College students, faculty, staff, and the community
Fremont Campus, Lot H
43600 Mission Blvd., Fremont
Go to https://bach.health/vaccine/ to register
https://www.ohlone.edu/rtc/resources/vaccination
Tuesday, July 27
Improve Your Credit
5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Learn how to improve your credit from financial coaches at SparkPoint Fremont
Register at https://conta.cc/2T0i5ne
fr*****@ac*******.org
(510) 745-1400
Tuesday, July 27
Virtual Public Meeting: Skywest Golf Course
6 p.m.
Opportunity for the public to comment and provide feedback
Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/3x76bWM
Er**********@ki*********.com
(669) 800-1985
Thursday, July 29
Financial Management for Small Businesses
12 noon – 1:30 p.m.
Learn about key concepts in financial management. Free webinar by the SBDC.
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/48544
Thursday, July 29
Kamala Harris and the Rise of Indian Americans
6 p.m.
Virtual book launch and conversation with the editor
Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/3kOrdXr
Friday, July 30
Live Music at the Block
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Echo Trail (country music)
43330 Pacific Commons Blvd. (near KoJa Kitchen)
Saturday, July 31
Brunch for the Wild Bunch $
9 a.m. – 12 noon
Go behind the scenes and help feed the animals
Oakland Zoo
9777 Golf Links Rd, Oakland
(510) 632-9525
www.oaklandzoo.org
Saturday, July 31
Live Music at the Block
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Easy Street (country music)
43330 Pacific Commons Blvd. (near KoJa Kitchen)
Saturday, July 31
Peak Experiences In California R
1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Local author Matt Johanson discusses his new book California Summits: Guide to the Best Accessible Peak Experiences
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
www.aclibrary.org
Saturday, July 31
Kickoff Celebration for the future Stack Center
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
See the design for the new building and meet the architect, plus music, food, and free vaccinations
Corner of Tennyson and Ruus Roads, Hayward
www.stackcenter.com
Sunday, August 1
Berry Picking
9:30 a.m.
Bring your own berry basket and gather blackberries
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
aw*****@eb*****.org
Sunday, August 1
Wonderful Wool
Various times
Spinning, carding, felting and weaving…
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
aw*****@eb*****.org
Sunday, August 1
730th Swiss National Day Celebration $R
11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Lunch, TV broadcast, door prize drawing
(510) 9636-2523
ae**********@gm***.com
Eventbrite.com
Tuesday, August 3
Manage Your Debt and Expenses
5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Learn how to manage your debt in this online class, hosted by SparkPoint Fremont
Register at https://conta.cc/3xtWEde
fr*****@ac*******.org
(510) 745-1400
Wednesday, August 4
Minority-Owned Small Business Resources
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Resources, info, and links to assist minorities. Free webinar by the SBDC.
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/48474
Thursday, August 5
Online Marketing
12 noon – 1:30 p.m.
Learn how to use Canva for marketing material. Free webinar by the SBDC.
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/48584
Friday, August 6
Olive Hyde Art Guild Reception
7 p.m.
Mingle, meet local artists, and enjoy artwork in person!
123 Washington Blvd, Fremont
https://olivehydeartguild.org/
Friday, August 6
Walk with a City Official: Councilmember Rick Jones
9 a.m.
Part of the City of Fremont’s new health and wellness campaign
Brookvale Trail Park
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
https://fremont.gov/ActiveFremont
Saturday, August 7
Stuff The Bus
10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Donate needed school supplies to help local families in need.
Walmart
40580 Albrae St., Fremont
(510) 470-0336
Sunday, August 8
Field to Food
Various times
Join us in the farmyard
Ardenwood Historic Farm
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
aw*****@eb*****.org
Monday, August 9
Walk with a City Official: Councilmember Jenny Kassan
6 p.m.
Part of the City of Fremont’s new health and wellness campaign
Azeveda Park
39450 Royal Palm Dr., Fremont
https://fremont.gov/ActiveFremont
Wednesday, August 11
How to Write a Business Plan
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn how to think clearly about your business. Free webinar by the SBDC.
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/48602
Wednesday, August 11 – Thursday, August 12
Perseid Meteor Shower Watch Party $
11 p.m. – 3 a.m.
Special in-person viewing of this dazzling display, weather permitting
Chabot Space & Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
www.chabotspace.org
Thursday, August 12
Online Reputation Management
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Advice and tips to successfully monitor and uphold a positive online reputation. Free webinar by the SBDC.
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/48476
Thursday, August 12
Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences
9 a.m. – 12 noon
Interactive discussion with nationally-recognized experts
Register at Bach.health/ACEs
40910 Fremont Blvd., Fremont
Saturday, August 14
How to become a Self-Published Author
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Online art demo by local writer Luanna K. Leisure
Email ar******@gm***.com to register
www.LuannaLeisureBooks.com
Saturday, August 14
Davis Street Annual Health Fair
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
3081 Teagarden St., San Leandro
ks******@da*********.org
(510) 347-4620
Saturday, August 14
8th Annual Larry “O” Car Show
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Classic cars, raffles and prizes, bbq, live music, family activities
Ruggieri Senior Center
33997 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 675-5492
Monday, August 16
Walking Tour – Boxart!
6:30 p.m.
Learn about Fremont history as depicted on utility boxes
Meet at Veterans Memorial Park
34071 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
in**@mu******************.org
(510) 623-7907
Wednesday, August 18
Urban Cycling 101
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Online workshop on learn rules of the road and how to equip your bicycle
Register at: https://bit.ly/3iH0Ujp
fr*****@ac*******.org
(510) 745-1400
Thursday, August 19
Downtown Hayward Street Party
5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Classic car show, food, beer, wine, live music, family fun
Downtown Hayward
B Street from Foothill to Watkins
https://www.hayward.org/
(510) 537-2424
Friday, August 20
Harry Potter Movie Night R
Half Blood Prince
Gates open 7:30 – Movie starts at dusk
Drive in movie night
Lone Tree Cemetery
24591 Fairview Ave., Hayward
RSVP to: (510) 582-1274
Saturday, August 21
Hot August Night on the Rails $
7:30 p.m.
Ride through the canyon on a beautiful summer night
Sunol Depot departure
6 Kilkare Rd., Sunol
https://www.ncry.org/
Saturday, August 21
Bay Area Latin Jazz Festival $
11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Music, food, dance, booths
Rowell Ranch
9725 Dublin Canyon Rd., Castro Valley
Bayarealatinjazzfestival.com
Sunday, August 22
Mariachi Festival
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Mariachi bands, ballet folkloric performances, food, beverages, community resources
Shirley Sisk Grove
Cedar Blvd at Newpark Mall, Newark
Wednesday, August 25
Marketing Your Services During Challenging Times
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn how to maintain a strong online presence. Free webinar by the SBDC.
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/48593
Friday, August 27
Raya and the Last Dragon R$
8 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Outdoor family movie night—popcorn will be delivered to your space!
Sunnyhills Albert Augustine Park, Milpitas
https://bit.ly/3jyWr4l
Saturday, August 28
Walk with a City Official: Councilmember Teresa Cox
10 a.m.
Part of the City of Fremont’s new health and wellness campaign
Irvington Park
41825 Blacow Rd., Fremont
https://fremont.gov/ActiveFremont
Wednesday, September 15
Introduction to the Restaurant Business
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Key steps to minimize costly errors – in Spanish. Free webinar by the SBDC.
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/48461
Wednesday, September 22
A Better Way to Grow Revenue with a CRM
12 noon – 1:30 p.m.
Learn about Client Relationship Management (CRM) software. Free webinar by the SBDC.
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/48641
Letter to the Editor
City drags Its feet on the future of Mission Peak
Since 1978, EBRPD has operated the 900-acre park at Mission Peak at no cost to the city. The district provides recreational trails, grazing management, park operations, policing, a parking lot, restrooms, and park rangers — all at no cost. But decades after the park opened, more than 600 homes were constructed along the outskirts of the Regional Park, and the newcomers began clamoring to restrict public access to the park.
Parking is congested at Stanford Avenue, with only 42 spaces. The Board of Directors approved a $7-million expansion of the parking lot in September 2016, with the support of the city council. In a show of good faith, the district funded a portion of the costs to restrict parking on nearby city streets, until the new lot could be built. The district also paid for most of the enforcement over the next four years. Park police handed out many of the 4,500 citations costing park visitors over a quarter of a million dollars, while the city pocketed all the revenues.
In 2016, anti-park neighbors repaid EBRPD for its largess, by suing to stop the expansion under an environmental pretense. The suit was settled in 2018, on terms that were largely favorable to the district. In 2020, EBRPD stopped participating in the parking restrictions on city streets and began negotiating to renew a 25-year lease.
Since July of 2020, the district has operated the park on a month-to-month contract, while negotiations have dragged on without resolution. In December 2020, the city Council unanimously passed a referral to staff to clarify the terms of the lease proposal. The requirements of the Brown Act are specific and clear regarding lease negotiations. Only the price and terms of payment can be discussed with the council in closed session — the city council must disclose in open session the contractual terms of the lease negotiations.
Fremont receives a beautiful and iconic regional park operated at no cost to the city. Lease negotiations shouldn’t be that difficult as the terms of the last two 25-year contracts were simple and straightforward. The city should negotiate with transparency and accountability, to protect the recreational and health needs of the public for another generation of visitors.
The city should help fund the new parking lot inside Mission Peak Regional Preserve. The CEQA report for the project required multiple public meetings; ran to more than 850 pages and cost the park district $500,000 in consultancy fees. The new parking lot, which the park district had promised to be free of charge, would alleviate most of the parking congestion on local streets.
The Fremont Police Department might even be able to redirect the funding associated with a parking compliance department. Limited police resources could be redirected to the thefts of catalytic converters, car break-ins and violence against minorities.
The Mission San Jose area has the lowest crime rate in the city yet receives more police services than other neighborhoods. Parking on public streets should not be restricted for the use of private homeowners since all residents contribute to their upkeep. In fact, neighborhoods elsewhere don’t restrict parents from parking to drop off children at school, or block parking for BART commuters.
The pandemic has demonstrated that access to our regional parks is a matter of public health. The city should encourage outdoor activities, and support recreation for our community.
Members of the public, including park visitors, can weigh in on protecting access to Mission Peak at an upcoming meeting sponsored by the city August 10, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.
Teen Center in Central Park, 39770 Paseo Padre Parkway.
Online (Zoom) at https://zoom.us/j/92211919302
Meeting ID 951 5400 8217
william yragui
Mission Peak Conservancy
Honor Roll
Montclair State University, New Jersey
Spring 2021 graduate
• Katlyn Pruitt of Union City
Wyoming Seminary, Pennsylvania
Spring 2021 graduate
• Nathan Pan of Fremont
Hamilton College, New York
Spring 2021 Dean’s List
• Aparna Patnaik of Fremont
Knox College, Illinois
Spring 2021 Dean’s List
• Thao Luong of Fremont
• Tanay Singh of Fremont
Rochester Institute of Technology, New York
2020-2021 graduates
• Nelson Palacios of Hayward
• Harsh Srivastava of Fremont
• Rima Kandalgaonkar of Milpitas
• Rebecca DiPaola of Fremont
Television Academy Foundation, California
2021 Internship Program
• Rohan Srinivasan of Fremont
BART rebuilding projects accelerated during pandemic slowdown
Submitted by BART
A newly released report highlights how BART has made the most of reduced service hours during the pandemic to accelerate important infrastructure projects. Through March of 2021 a total of 126 rebuilding projects across the system were in the planning, design, or construction phases. Another 22 projects were completed. That means completion has been reached on more than 25% of the work included in the Measure RR system rebuilding program.
As of the end of March BART had replaced or completed:
• 34 miles of worn rail.
• 31 track switches (key track components that help trains switch lines).
• 27 miles of 34.5kV electrical cable to ensure trains have a reliable source of power.
• Platform edges at seven stations have been upgraded to improve safety.
• 58 miles of third rail coverboards (the white, curved fiberglass shields that protect the third rail, which powers BART trains) have been enhanced to reduce failures that cause train delays.
• 4 major station modernization and station access projects.
The independent Bond Oversight Committee wrote in its report that the rebuilding projects being prioritized by BART have been delivered in accordance with best practices and are improving the experience of riders by enhancing the reliability of the BART system. The committee also wrote that BART is meeting the bond mandate and is on track to deliver on its public commitments.
Measure RR is a $3.5 billion bond measure that was approved by voters in Alameda, Contra Costa, and San Francisco counties in 2016. The independent Bond Oversight Committee is comprised of seven members who represent a diversity of expertise. The organizations represented on the committee include the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the Association for Budgeting and Financial Management section of the American Society for Public Administration, the Project Management Institute, and the League of Women Voters.
To read the Measure RR Bond Oversight Committee’s report, visit the BART website at www.bart.gov/about/reports/, and then select the “2021 RR Annual Report” link.
Bay Area Latin Jazz Festival celebrates Afro-Caribbean and Latin American musical heritage
Submitted by Luis R. Mendoza
Montuno Productions is happy to announce the second annual Bay Area Latin Jazz Festival, scheduled for Saturday, August 21, 2021 at Rowell Ranch, a picturesque, park-like venue operated and maintained by Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD).
Postponed from 2020, announcement of resumption of the festival has been met with anticipation and enthusiasm by Bay Area Latin music fans, including those who attended the first festival in 2019. “It gives Latin jazz aficionados and lovers of live music in the San Francisco Bay Area something to look forward to, as the state re-opens for business in the aftermath of the deployment of highly effective vaccines and treatments against COVID-19,” said Luis Mendoza, president and CEO of Montuno Productions.
The celebration will showcase the cultural/musical contributions of Latin Jazz, with an emphasis on Afro-Caribbean and Latin American influences. Festival attendees will be able to enjoy a diverse array of food, music, dance, and artistry. Booth space will be available for Bay Area merchants, food vendors, artisans, and community organizations.
Latin Jazz Festival 2021 will feature an exceptionally talented and diverse lineup including: headliner Bobi Céspedes and her band; four-time Grammy winner Oscar Hernández; Latin Jazz Collective with John Nava; Latin Rhythm Boys, featuring Grammy Award recipient, vocalist Carlos Rosario; Ricky’s Grupo Afro-Nativo; René Escovedo Latin Jazz Sextet; and MC & DJ, long-time Bay Area radio personality Luis Medina.
Festivalgoers will also have access to several pre-festival events, including livestreaming concerts, and interviews with Latin music luminaries in the Bay Area and beyond. They will also be able to purchase festival-related merchandise (online), including T-shirts, and DVDs of video footage from the 2019 festival.
Bay Area Latin Jazz Festival
Saturday, Aug 21
11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Rowell Ranch
9725 Dublin Canyon, Rd., Castro Valley
bayarealatinjazzfestival.com
Healing Through the Lens: Call for Art
Submitted by Hayward Arts Council
Art is healing. This exhibit, “Healing through the Lens” is a vehicle for you to express your interpretation of healing through a photograph. Get inspired and take photos of people, places, or nature around you. Pick your favorite and share your healing path with the world.
You must RSVP your participation no later than Monday, September 20, 2021.
Space is limited, one piece will be accepted per artist, and only the first 40 pieces entered will be in the show. HAC reserves the right to curate the final artworks to be exhibited. The entry fee for Hayward Arts Council members is $15 for one piece. You must be a member of Hayward Arts Council to be in the show. There is a discounted combined fee of $30 to both join Hayward Arts Council and enter the show.
View detailed guidelines online at www.haywardartscouncil.org. Pay online, or send a check to Hayward Arts Council, P.O. Box 126, Hayward, CA 94543. Checks must be received by September 23, 2021.
This show will be held in person at the Hayward Library Gallery, 2nd Floor. The show will run from October 4, 2021 through January 25, 2022.
Questions? Call (510) 538-2787 or email ha*@ha****************.org.
Healing Through the Lens
Monday, Oct 4, 2021 through Tuesday, Jan 25
Submission Deadline: Monday, Sept 20
Hayward Library Gallery, 2nd Floor
Corner of Mission and C St., Hayward
Gallery hours are subject to change.
https://www.haywardartscouncil.org/home
Power plant gets OK to restart
Submitted by City of Hayward
Despite objections from the City of Hayward, an application by Calpine Corp. to resume operation of its Russell City Energy Center (RCEC) power plant has been approved by the California Energy Commission (CEC).
Hayward officials opposed the application saying the plant shouldn’t be allowed to be restarted until the cause of a May 27 explosion and fire at the facility is known and not until full assessments and public review of the safety risks and potential environmental and public health impacts have been completed.
With the vote to approve the application on July 15, CEC staff members and commissioners acknowledged a need for greater oversight of plant operations and promised more openness and cooperation with Hayward and its fire department to ensure the facility is run safely.
“We are encouraged about the acknowledgements and prospects for improved oversight, transparency and partnership,” said Hayward Mayor Barbara Halliday. “At the same time, our objections to restarting the plant are unchanged, and we are very disappointed with the decision.”
The explosion took place shortly before midnight in an energy-generating steam turbine and scattered flying chunks of hot metal hundreds of feet — including a 15-pound piece that cut through the roof of an unoccupied recreation room 1,200 feet away at the City of Hayward’s Housing Navigation Center which serves people experiencing homelessness. Another piece, weighing more than 50 pounds, landed on the city’s wastewater treatment plant located adjacent to RCEC.
The explosion ignited a fire of burning lubrication oil. The flames forced the evacuation of nearby residents due to the presence of highly explosive hydrogen gas on the site. Meanwhile, workers at an adjacent Hayward wastewater treatment facility indoors were forced to seek refuge inside due to the heavy smoke.
Despite the extensive debris field from the explosion, no one was killed and no injuries were reported, though the health effects on Hayward firefighters who responded to the scene are still being assessed.
Parallel investigations to determine the cause of the explosion and contributing factors are under way by plant-owner Calpine and the CEC. In approving a restart before investigation results are known, CEC commissioners and staff members said they are confident the plant could be run safely at reduced capacity and that the facility is needed to maintain the reliability of the state’s electrical power grid.
In the days leading up to the hearing, it was learned the plant failed a March 2019 safety investigative audit by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), which among other things found leaking lubrication oil on the steam turbine that would explode two years and two months later. It is unknown what corrective action was promised and carried out since Calpine’s written response to the audit was submitted to the CPUC under seal and has remained confidential ever since. CEC staff also had been unaware of the audit.
Additionally, the safety audit specifically directed Calpine to reach out to the Hayward Fire Department to conduct joint emergency drills. But Calpine never did so and the joint emergency drills called for in the audit never took place.
The RCEC, which began operations in August 2013, was commissioned by the CEC as a combined-cycle power plant comprised of two gas turbines and a steam turbine. It generates electricity from natural gas and generally is relied upon in during periods of peak demand when temperatures are highest.
The steam turbine that experienced the catastrophic failure receives heat from high-temperature exhaust gases generated by the gas-powered turbine. The sequestered heat drives the steam turbine to generate additional electricity.
Under the application to restart the plant, Calpine would run the facility at about half its capacity using just the gas turbines. By doing so, the plant will release twice the amount of carbon emissions per unit of energy produced — but overall levels would not exceed state public health and environmental thresholds, according to an CEC analysis of the application.
For more information about the power plant, visit the City of Hayward website at www.hayward-ca.gov, then type “Russell City Energy Center” into the search field and follow the link.
Kickoff celebration for new South Hayward Youth and Family Center
Submitted by City of Hayward
Community members in South Hayward have long held the dream of building a new youth and family center at the corner of Tennyson and Ruus Roads. Join us Saturday, July 31, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for the Kickoff Celebration for the future Stack Center.
The family-friendly celebration will include music, food, a community mural, and free vaccinations (no appointment needed). In addition, you can explore the design for the new building, meet the architect, and tell us what you want to see at your new center.
The Center will be on the current site of the Eden Youth and Family and Matt Jimenez Community Centers and adjacent to the 10-acre Tennyson Park. The two existing centers will be combined to create a campus with a renovated childcare center, a brand new pediatric and dental clinic, a new mental health clinic, community meeting rooms, and seven spaces for learning, technology, and art.
The site also will include community amenities that will bring activity to this stretch of the Tennyson Corridor, such as a corner café, an outdoor amphitheater, and an events plaza that can host a weekly farmer’s market.
The fundraising campaign for this project recently launched. You can support the project by donating online at www.stackcenter.org. We hope to see you July 31!
Kickoff for Youth and Family Center
Saturday, Jul 31
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Tennyson Rd. & Ruus Rd.
Kiwanis club partners with Walmart to “Stuff the Bus”
Submitted by Shirley Sisk
On Saturday, August 7 a big yellow Fremont Unified School District bus will be in the front of the Walmart Store on Albrae Street in Fremont. In this economy, and with COVID-19, it is very difficult for many local families to purchase all the items on the list of supplies that students need for school.
The list includes:
Pencils, 3 ring binders, notebook paper, school scissors, rulers, Kleenex, hand sanitizer, crayons, spiral notebooks, erasers, highlighters, glue sticks, colored pencils & markers, pocket folders, pencil pouches, and more.
Over the past year, children did their school work at home. Now, coming back to school, they will need help. You can provide much needed supplies. Just come by to help “stuff the bus.” Kiwanis volunteers will be on hand to accept your donation and you can receive a tax-deductible receipt from the Kiwanis Club of Fremont Foundation—the nonprofit arm of Kiwanis Fremont. Club members are honored to provide this service on behalf of the children.
If you don’t have time to shop, bring a check made out to Kiwanis Club of Fremont Foundation marked “Stuff the Bus” and a volunteer will go in the store and make a purchase for you. All donations will be turned over to the school district for distribution.
For more information about donating or volunteering, call Suresh Manic (510) 793-5683.
Stuff the Bus
Saturday, Aug 7
10:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Walmart Store
40580 Albrae St., Fremont
(510) 793-5683
Summer Concerts
[Last year, we took a break from community events, but several cities are resuming their tradition of outdoor summer concerts! Check out the upcoming schedule.]
Live Music at the Block
Saturday, July 31
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Easy Street (country music)
43330 Pacific Commons Blvd. (near KoJa Kitchen)
https://pacificcommons.com/events-and-promotions
Central Park Summer Concert Series
Thursdays until Aug 19
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Presented by Washington Hospital, Lanner USA, and Fremont Bank
Concert Schedule:
July 29 – Carnaval (Santana tribute)
August 5 – Journey Revisited (Journey tribute)
August 12 – David Martin’s House Party (Premier Party Band)
August 19 – East Bay Mudd (R&B hits)
Central Park Performance Pavilion
40204 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
https://www.fremont.gov/concerts
Music at the Grove
Fridays, August 6 & 20
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Gates open at 4 p.m.
Bring a low-back chair or blanket
August 6 – Big Bang Beat
August 20 – Cisco Kid
Shirley Sisk Grove
(Adjacent to NewPark Mall)
2086 NewPark Mall, Newark
Milpitas on Stage
Sunday, August 15
4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Full: Waiting list registration is open
Bob McGuire Park
Garden St. / S. Milpitas Blvd.
https://apm.activecommunities.com/milpitasrec/Home
Code: 22640
UC Regents approve rare tuition hike
By Janie Har
Associated Press
SAN FRANCISCO (AP), July 22 — Despite opposition from student groups, University of California regents have approved a multiyear plan to raise tuition and fees at one of the nation’s premier public university systems. The systemwide tuition increase will put undergraduate tuition and systemwide fees at just over $13,000 a year for in-state students, with additional campus-based fees on top of that.
Officials said that the increase — the first since 2017 — includes a progressive strategy that will benefit most students through higher financial aid. But low-income students who spoke at the July 22 meeting said they feared the opposite, as regents and officials acknowledged their discomfort at raising the cost to attend a public university.
“We all acknowledge that increasing tuition is not an action to be taken lightly. But this is the best option we have to provide cost predictability, enhanced student support, and preserve the excellence of the university,” said UC President Michael Drake.
UC schools are known for top-notch academics and renowned faculty. The system has 10 campuses and 292,0000 undergraduate and graduate students, up from 171,000 students two decades ago. But declining, unstable state funding has led to a backlog of deferred maintenance, classrooms and technology in need of upgrading, and larger class sizes, university officials said.
The plan adopted by the board July 22 calls for in-state tuition and fees to rise by 2% plus inflation or 4.2%, for new undergraduates starting in the 2022-23 academic year, which amounts to an additional $534.
That amount would stay flat for those students for up to six years. It would increase by smaller percentages for each of the following incoming classes until the 2026-27 academic year, when any increase would be based solely on inflation. Regents will need to reauthorize the plan in five years.
Aidan Arasasingham, president of the UC Students Association, pleaded with regents to reject the plan, speaking of his love for a university system that welcomed his grandfather from Sri Lanka in 1968. “I know you can do better, because I’ve seen UC do better, but that always happens when it has chosen daring courage over mediocre predictability,” he said.
The vote was 17-5 with the board’s student representative and Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon among the no votes, saying they objected to making education less accessible. Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond also voted no as did Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, who said it was inappropriate to pass a tuition increase at a time when the state of California, flush with cash, has granted the system an extra $1.3 billion, for an $11 billion budget.
“We pride ourselves in educating Californians, regardless of how wealthy their parents are, or how much capacity they have to pay,” she said. “We have reaped enormous economic and social benefits to our state of providing affordable education to our students.”
More than half of in-state undergraduates currently have their tuition and fees covered by need-based grants, and that won’t change, said UC officials. In fact, they said that only students whose families earn $150,000 a year or more would benefit from keeping tuition flat, it said, whereas everyone else would benefit from more financial aid.
Tuition has not kept pace with inflation since 2011, the Public Policy Institute of California recently said. The increases will provide stability but should be paired with a robust campaign to ensure students apply for financial aid.
UC officials said in-state tuition and campus fees at comparable public universities in Virginia, Illinois and Michigan average more than $17,000 a year, with increases ranging from 24% to 56% since 2011. Over the same time period, UC tuition has gone up 6%.
Board Chair Cecilia Estolano urged the university system to take note of the institute’s warning that an aggressive public education campaign to students and parents was needed, otherwise “students could be leaving money on the table, because of the complexity of our financial aid system,” she said.
Painted stones enliven Weibel Elementary
By Alfred Hu
Prior to the pandemic lockdown, Weibel Elementary School Principal Annie Lee came up with the idea of engaging students in a group art project by collecting and exhibiting beautifully decorated stones from each student. Although some students participated, a space to display the stones was missing. When the school switched to virtual learning, Lee reached out to the local Boy Scout troop to see if they could help showcase the stones and motivate more students to participate when the campus reopened.
Luck appeared when Aditya Mittal, a junior at American High School and a Life Scout in Troop 273, quickly came up with ideas for an innovative project. He wanted to convert the dull and empty marquee area of the school into an inviting space to display the growing artwork of painted stones, transforming it into a vibrant entry to the school grounds. Mittal felt this project would instill a sense of school pride in students, faculty and community.
To accomplish this task, Mittal and his team of scouts added fresh landscaping with a rock border set in concrete, built two planter boxes using redwood lumber painted in waterproof and rot-resistant paint, planted ornamental shrubs and flowers, deployed a hybrid adapter allowing water-conserving drip and sprinkler irrigation, and added solar lights to illuminate the marquee area at night. The painted stones were then arranged in a “W” pattern for Weibel. As students contributed more stones, the once-dull area became a colorful mosaic. “I found the art project of painted stones to be extremely unique and creative. Since there were only a few painted stones to begin with, I wanted to display them as creatively as possible while still leaving room for other students to participate,” said Mittal.
This design for the new marquee exhibit area was conceived in October 2020 and took nearly six months of rigorous planning, obtaining approvals, fundraising and scheduling—but only a weekend to implement at a cost of just under $1,000. “I aimed to balance creativity, cost, and quality to give the Weibel community a beautiful space that would motivate everyone to participate in the school-wide outdoor art project,” Mittal said. According to Mittal, installing the irrigation system and dealing with the uneven slope of the new exhibit area presented challenges. Mittal is proud of his team’s efforts and is grateful to Lee for the opportunity to participate in the project. “This experience has reinforced my belief in grassroots efforts and the collective impact of doing your part in the community,” he added.
Mittal and his team of dedicated scouts can also take pride in the community’s enthusiasm and feedback for the project. While working at the site, people from the Weibel neighborhood, including a parent whose two kids attended the school many years ago, stopped by to thank them for their work and praise their progress. One memorable moment for Mittal was when he saw a man take a picture of his son in front of the flowers in the marquee area. The Weibel PTA and staff gave many kudos, with Lee posting her thanks via Twitter and the school’s home page.
You may view the completed mosaic at Weibel Elementary school, located at 45135 S. Grimmer Blvd in Fremont. The artwork is evolving as people add painted stones. And perhaps, you will add one too.
BART Police Log
Submitted by Les Mensinger and BART PD
Friday, July 16
• At 9:15 a.m. a man identified by police as Joshua Larsen, 39, of San Jose was stopped at Warm Springs/South Fremont station on suspicion of fare evasion. A record check showed three misdemeanor warrants totaling $37,000, a felony warrant with a bail of $15,000 and a no-bail warrant and a resisting arrest charge. He was arrested and booked at Santa Rita Jail.
• At 12:25 p.m. a man identified by police as Michael Wallace, 54, of Oakland was arrested at Hayward station on suspicion of not complying with transient registration rules. He was booked at Santa Rita Jail.
Monday, July 19
• At 9:05 a.m. A man identified by police as Derek young, 53, of Oakland was arrested at Bay Fair station in San Leandro on a warrant issued by Alameda County for assault with a deadly weapon. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
• At 11:23 a.m. a man identified by police as Maurice Henderson, 28, of Oakley was arrested at Fremont station on a no bail parole violation warrant for burglary. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
• At 6:24 p.m. a man identified by police as Shante Williams, 42, of Vallejo was arrested at Bay Fair station in San Leandro on an outstanding felony warrant issued by El Cerrito Police Department. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Wednesday, July 21
• At 9:15 p.m. a man identified by police as Roland Ruiz, 43, of Dublin was arrested at Castro Valley station on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, making a criminal threat, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail and issued a prohibition order.
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 2021 Fall Citizen Police Academy.
Among the goals of the 10-week academy are to facilitate an effective community-police partnership and improve communication by developing a better understanding of each other’s role in the community. 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 Police 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 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Wednesdays, September 15 through November 17 at 37101 Newark Blvd. There is no fee to participate, but space is limited. For details about the academy, or to download and file an application, go to www.newark.org/departments/citizen-police-academy. Applications must be received by Wednesday, August 25. For questions, call Beverly Ryans at (510) 578-4352 or send an email to be***********@ne****.org.
2021 Citizen Police Academy
Sep 15 – Nov 17
Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
37101 Newark Blvd., Newark
A look at how the Newark Police Department operates
Free; deadline to apply is Aug 25
Details and applications: www.newark.org/departments/citizen-police-academy
Questions: Beverly Ryans, (510) 578-4352 or be***********@ne****.org
Cocaine disguised as cake seized from vehicle
Associated Press
A New York man and a Maine woman are facing charges over cocaine disguised as a cake that was seized from their vehicle, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency (MDEA) reported on July 21.
Acting on a tip, police stopped the car on I-295 in Gardiner on July 20, and a drug-sniffing dog found 4 pounds of cocaine worth $200,000 on the street, the MDEA said. Also seized was $1,900 in cash. About two pounds of the cocaine was disguised as a marble cake with coffee grounds used to cover up the scent, officials said.
The two were released on bail and were expected in court the next day. It was unknown if they had a lawyer. Agents believe the drugs were to be distributed in Kennebec and Somerset counties. The MDEA was assisted in the investigation by the Winslow Police Department, Maine State Police and Homeland Security Investigations.
Cool beans! Share coffee with cops
Submitted by San Leandro PD
Community members, students and local business owners in San Leandro are invited to a meet-and-greet “Coffee with the Cops” gathering on Wednesday, July 28 with members of the San Leandro Police Department.
The 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. event will be at Starbucks, 13808 E. 14th St., San Leandro. The informal gathering is designed to let people ask questions or voice neighborhood concerns with members of the police department in a relaxed setting. No formal presentation is planned, so people can drop by anytime during the event. Admission is free and open to the public.
Coffee with the Cops
Wednesday, Jul 28
9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Q&A with local police
Starbucks, 13808 E. 14th St., San Leandro
(510) 577-3228
Free
Fremont Police Log
Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont PD
Tuesday, July 13
• At about 2:00 a.m. a male in the area of Hastings Street in central Fremont woke up to the sound of a drill and looked outside to see a small group of males surrounding his vehicle and attempting to steal its catalytic converter. He yelled at the group prompting them to flee, then called police. Responding officers located the group’s vehicle nearby and arrested three suspects, identified by police as Arteaga Hernandez, 19, and Hernana Mercando, 28, both of Oakland and Erick Bonilla Trejo, 29, of San Francisco.
• At about 8:00 a.m. a resident at Metro Crossing, 45128 Warm Springs Blvd., saw a man masturbating outside via video surveillance and called police. The man, identified by police as Shane Bequette, 25, of Fremont was arrested by responding officers. Police also determined Bequette was responsible for tampering with a package in the complex mailroom.
Wednesday, July 14
• At about 5:08 p.m. a robbery occurred at Home Depot, 43900 Ice House Terrace when suspects entered the store and began attempting to steal merchandise. When confronted, the suspects began swinging bolt cutters at store security workers before fleeing the scene.
Friday, July 16
• A commercial burglary occurred at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1660 Peralta Blvd. A church member responded to the scene after being alerted the power had been cut. The suspects were still on scene and fled in their vehicle after being confronted. Later that day, Street Crimes Detectives located the vehicle and arrested two suspects, identified by police as Stephen Engle, 47 and Kate Marks, 34, both of Fremont.
• At about 5:16 p.m. a robbery occurred in the area of Ontario Common and Caldwell Terrace near the Ardenwood area of Fremont. A female was walking in the area when an unknown male grabbed her from behind, holding what felt like a knife blade to her neck and demanded her gold necklace. The male removed the necklace and pushed the female before fleeing the scene.
Saturday, July 17
• Officers responded to a commercial burglary report at 39355 California St. in central Fremont. A suspect was seen on video surveillance attempting to kick open a door to the business. A suspect, identified by police as Hayden Lozano, 32, of Fremont was arrested.
Detectives Arrest Shooting Suspect
Submitted by Geneva Bosques
On July 16, 2021, at approximately 7:44 a.m., a victim reported that a male suspect shot at his car as he was driving near the 7/11 in the 38000 block of Mission Blvd. The victim reported that he had driven to the location to meet with a female associate when he noticed the suspect approaching on foot. The suspect began yelling at the victim and then reached into his waistband. The victim accelerated away as the suspect began firing multiple rounds at his vehicle from a handgun. The victim was not injured as a result of the shooting. The victim described the suspect’s vehicle as a black mid 2000’s BMW which was later found on ALPR cameras fleeing the area.
Gun Violence Reduction Team (GVRT) Detectives took over the investigation and were able to quickly identify the female associate and the male suspect. Detectives gathered additional information regarding the shooting which resulted in arrest warrants for both the male and female suspect for attempt homicide.
Over the next several days, GVRT Detectives searched for both suspects at various locations throughout the Bay Area. On July 23rd, GVRT Detectives located the suspect in Fremont and requested the SWAT team to effect the arrest. Prior to the arrival of SWAT, GVRT Detectives were able to safely arrest the suspect as he was getting his haircut in the 43000 block of Mission Blvd. at 12:15 p.m. 21-year-old Alexander Inguanzo of Fremont was arrested and booked on charges of attempted homicide and possession of a controlled substance for sales. Inguanzo has prior arrests for possession of a controlled substance, burglary, and theft.
SWAT and GVRT Detectives then transitioned to search for the 19-year-old female suspect. She was located in the 38000 block of Godfrey Pl. where she was also arrested for her attempt homicide warrant. She was later interviewed and booked on charges of possession of a controlled substance for sales and outstanding warrants. Detectives determined that additional follow up will need to be conducted regarding the attempt homicide charge.
If you have information regarding this investigation, please contact the Major Crimes Task Force at 510-790-6660. Information and tips can also be submitted on various platforms including anonymously at: https://fremontpolice.gov/TIP
Hayward Police Log
Submitted by Hayward PD
Monday, June 28
• Officers responded to a report about a parked vehicle in north Hayward that was on fire with the engine “revving” and someone asleep in the driver’s seat. Upon arrival, the first officer could not determine if anyone was inside the vehicle because of heavily tinted windows and locked doors. He used a baton to shatter the passenger window and spotted a person in the driver’s seat and quickly pulled them out to safety. Arriving Hayward Fire Department personnel quickly extinguished the flames.
Monday, July 12
• At 11:17 p.m. a male was walking near the 25000 block of Industrial Boulevard and was approached by an unknown person who used force to rob him before fleeing the scene.
Tuesday, July 13
• At 2:54 p.m. a local news crew set up a camera to record an interview near the 22000 block of Mission Blvd. When one of the crew stepped away, an unknown person took the camera and tripod and fled the scene.
Wednesday, July 14
• At 4:24 p.m. victims near the 27000 block of Calaroga Ave. were approached by two suspects with handguns and robbed. The suspects fled the scene.
Friday, July 16
• At 9:10 a.m. officers responded to a report about two people trespassing on the 1000 block of Hamrick Lane. Officers located both suspects and took them into custody.
Milpitas Fire Department Log
Submitted by Milpitas FD
Wednesday, July 21
• Crews responded to report about a single vehicle accident on northbound Highway 680 just before Scott Creek Road. Upon arrival, Engine Co. 88 located the vehicle which had run off the roadway and struck a tree. A person with major injuries was extricated from the vehicle and taken to a local trauma center.
Brazen shoplifting spurs California law for organized thefts
By Stefanie Dazio and Don Thompson
Associated Press
LONG BEACH, Calif. (AP), July 21 — With violent smash-and-grab shoplifting costing California businesses millions of dollars annually, Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed a law aimed at curbing organized retail theft.
The law reestablishes the crime of organized retail theft, which lawmakers first created in 2018 but allowed to lapse as of July 1. Prosecutors can again seek to charge the crime as either a misdemeanor or a felony. It applies to those who work with others to steal merchandise either from brick-and-mortar stores or online, with the intent to sell or return the merchandise.
The legislation also applies to someone who works with others to receive stolen merchandise, those who steal for others as part of an organized theft ring or people who do the recruiting or organizing for the theft ring. The rings have become bolder in recent years, officials said, and videos of their smash-and-grabs have gone viral.
“The overall problem is a challenge — the brazenness of some of these crimes,” San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott said. “When they see these things go viral, the perception of lawlessness, the perception that anything goes — that has to be overcome, too.”
Nationally, organized retail theft costs businesses tens of billions of dollars annually. Newsom signed the law at a store in Long Beach, surrounded by several mayors and law enforcement officials.
However, police agencies in California will have to contend with local prosecutors, who decide whether to charge an offender with a misdemeanor or felony, if at all. Progressive district attorneys such as those in San Francisco and Los Angeles have pledged to avoid stiff penalties, sentencing enhancements and incarceration for certain crimes. Neither immediately commented on the law on July 21.
Newsom said organized retail theft is more than just simple, low-level shoplifting and that the California Highway Patrol has not seen a lack of support from liberal prosecutors. “I’m not willing to throw up my hands and suggest that somehow, we’re going to see a huge impediment to our collective effort to address these organized efforts,” the governor said.
State lawmakers first acted after retailers and law enforcement complained that punishments for such property crimes had been reduced under a voter-approved ballot initiative in 2014 called Proposition 47.
The union that represents San Francisco rank-and-file police officers said “strong response to California’s theft epidemic requires strong sentencing.” The union is vocally opposed to the San Francisco DA’s approach to charging — or not charging — offenders for various crimes.
“The easiest way to reduce crime is to fix Proposition 47 and reimpose strong sentencing for the pervasive retail theft that is literally closing stores across our state,” said Tracy McCray vice president of the San Francisco Police Officers Association. “Exacerbating the situation is San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin’s insistence on dropping or downgrading charges of those caught red-handed that allows those very same crooks to further victimize our communities over and over again.”
The new law’s author, Democratic Assemblyman Reggie Jones-Sawyer, said in a legislative analysis that the goal was “to ensure we targeted sophisticated crime rings that took advantage of loopholes in state law as opposed to theft for personal use simply because someone was hungry.”
The law also reinstates a California Highway Patrol task force that analyzes organized retail theft and vehicle burglary and helps law enforcement agencies in counties it identifies as having high property crime rates.
Over the past three years, the task force’s 668 investigations included 252 arrests and the recovery of more than $16.3 billion in stolen merchandise. Rachel Michelin, president of the California Retailers Association, said her organization sponsored the legislation in the hope that it could stem the tide of rising theft. In recent years, she said, frustrated retailers have seen increasing violence in the thefts.
The coronavirus pandemic has not changed theft patterns, Michelin said, but businesses are desperate to limit losses that were compounded by COVID-19 shutdowns. Jessica Millan Patterson, the California GOP chairwoman, called Newsom’s bill signing a photo op and said the governor is only getting serious on rising violent crime as he faces a recall election.
Police chief receives honorary black belt
Submitted by Milpitas PD
Acting Milpitas Police Department Chief Jared Hernandez was recently invited to speak at the Blue Dragon Taekwondo Academy as part of its Second AAU Taekwondo Region 13 Street Self-Defense Workshop.
The July 17 workshop was part of the academy’s advocacy against bias motivated hate incidents targeting the Asian American community. Hernandez spoke about the police department’s proactive approach to bias motivated hate incidents against the AAPI community and provided tips on personal safety and how to contact the police department in an emergency.
During the event Hernandez presented Grandmaster Thac Nguyen and the Blue Dragon Taekwondo Academy with a Chief’s Commendation for their partnership with the community and police department. In turn, the academy awarded Hernandez an honorary black belt for the police department’s commitment and dedicated service to the community.
Union City Police Log
Submitted by Union City PD
Friday, July 16
• During the evening shift, K9 Officer Olson made a traffic stop in the area of Alvarado-Niles Road and the I-880 freeway. As he approached the vehicle, the passenger quickly stuffed something under the seat, prompting Olson to search the vehicle. He found a firearm concealed inside the driver’s door pocket and another firearm under the passenger seat. The occupants, identified by police as Raymond Swartz and Rodger Branco, were arrested and face various firearms related charges.
Olympians mentor local youth
Submitted by Mike Heightchew
On July 22nd, aspiring athletes were offered a golden opportunity at Logan high School (Union City) when they were able to get up close and personal with four Olympians: Kevin Craddock (hurdles), Eddie Hart (Sprint), Reynaldo Brown (high jump) and Nkosinza Balumbu (Triple Jump).
Along with Olympics Coach Dr. Marcel Hetu, these professional athletes told aspirants about their lives and answered questions about their efforts toward Olympic performances and life lessons learned. Hart spoke of his dream, supported by hard work and determination, to break a world record. All participants agreed that dreams such as this can became reality through perseverance.
The event was sponsored by Mission Valley Track Club.
Editorial
Answers
A quest for a comprehensive, logical and comprehensible truth to our lives and the world around us is elusive. Remembered and written history gives a bit of context for the living, but is skewed toward those who control the narrative. The current generation of sentient humans spans approximately 100 years but has an advantage of written and recorded historical information, again, filtered through the lens of singular perspectives. Similar to the popular television quiz show, Jeopardy, answers are offered, but the seminal question and reason for them are actually more pivotal to understanding their context.
For those who reflect on historical rhythms and cycles of past turmoil, it is inescapable that they form templates of today. The phrase “history repeats itself” is a well-known aphorism. Along with positive aspects of humanity, negative influences such as intolerance, disease and injustice are woven throughout history. Written commentary and theories abound with reference to these malevolent behaviors. While differing in detail, the similarities are striking. As American humorist Mark Twain wrote: “History does not repeat itself, but it does rhyme.” The Irish playwright, George Bernard Shaw also commented on the lack of respect paid to these cycles, saying, “If history repeats itself, and the unexpected always happens, how incapable must Man be of learning from experience.”
Current dilemmas facing us at all levels of life and government are not new, yet we struggle to learn from past responses. In 1798 Robert Malthus, an English cleric and scholar, wrote an essay, Principle of Population, in which he recognized the pressures of population growth and its effect on economics. He proposed limits of population based on the available supply of resources. Opposition to this theory by economist Ester Boserup in the 20th century supposes that technological advances will balance supply and demand. Answers offered by each are tempered by the timeframe of their lives – one prior to the Industrial Revolution and the other following its inception.
This window of time is our singular context, but gives us, its current occupants, an opportunity to learn from others in past eras. For example, during the turbulent era of the 1960s, filled with strife over an unpopular war and its social and economic effects, popular songs such as Bob Dylan’s 1964 “The Times They Are A-Changin” looked for answers, calling for action by all. Currently, that call to action is just as relevant and even more essential to the continuation of our democratic ideals than ever. This threat is real and, combined with a politicization of health concerns, poses a challenge to our existence and continuation as a democratic republic.
Local input and focus lie at the root of national direction and strength. It is at this level of action that true change occurs. Dylan’s first stanza warns listeners “…the waters around you have grown” and “…you better start swimmin’ or you’ll sink like a stone.” He also wrote a song that directly addresses the consternation that follows ineffectual replies to similar patterns. In response to perennial questions, he gives an ambiguous answer… “Blowin In The Wind.”
What will our response be to today’s challenges? Value community health… if not already vaccinated, do it now. Attend a council, board, commission or committee meeting to learn about their responsibilities. Participate and protect local government and your community!
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