9-17-19 Articles

ABC Supply appoints Garcia

Submitted by Marcie Waters

 

Leo Garcia has been promoted to branch manager of building products distributor ABC Supply Co. Inc.’s Hayward location. Garcia began his career with ABC Supply at the San Jose branch as an inside sales associate. A lifelong Californian, Garcia served in the U.S. Marine Corps for four years. In his new role as manager of the Hayward branch, Garcia will build meaningful relationships with area contractors and guide a dedicated team of associates to provide the world-class customer service that makes contractors’ jobs easier.

 

 

Football

Eagles soar against Red Devils

Submitted and photos by Mike Heightchew

 

The American Eagles started the game on September 13 with an impressive offense, a balanced

attack of passing and running breaking though holes in the Red Devil’s defensive line. Taking control early and scoring on their first offensive drive, the Eagles offense and defense was running on all cylinders. The Red Devils were stymied by a defense that blocked passing lanes and shut down the running game as well. Everything was going smoothly until the fourth quarter when the Red Devils rebounded, coming from behind to take a 16-13 lead. Not to be denied, an Eagles interception and score put them back in the lead, 19-16 that held up until the final gun.

 

 

Enjoy the arts, support local students

Submitted by M Kathleen Kelly

 

The San Leandro Art Association (SLAA) is a non-profit organization founded in 1957. We provide a variety of art-based activities involving artists in our local communities, as well as students in the San Leandro Unified School District (SLUSD).

 

San Leandro Art Association (SLAA) is pleased to announce its “ArtFest” 2019 on Friday, September 20 – Saturday, September 21 at the San Leandro Main Library. On display will be original artwork by over 25 local artists/members. The range of mediums include watercolor, oil, acrylic, pastel, photography, collage and ceramics, plus a display of one-of-a-kind greeting cards. Members will be doing live art demonstrations during the two days showcasing their talent and openly sharing their knowledge. The public is invited to join SLAA in a celebration of art and, hopefully, come away inspired to add art to their lives through purchases or their own expression.

 

ArtFest is critical to increasing SLAA’s outreach to support art expression in the community. Many years ago, the SLAA board created the Dorothy Cunninghan Art Grant (DCAG) in honor of a long-time member who was also a teacher in SLUSD. The grant, which goes toward art supplies and equipment for students, was recently doubled from $150 to $300. At ArtFest 2019, we will be selling our newly-developed greeting card series, featuring the artwork of six children from Roosevelt Elementary School in San Leandro, to raise funds for this grant.

 

Another way SLAA is giving back is through our newly-created Jane Tsushima Grant, which will give $500 for supplies to graduating SLUSD high school students who plan to pursue art in their higher education. The grant is named after Jane Tsushima, an active member since 1975, who continues to inspire others to pursue art in their lives. Several participating artists will be donating their original artwork, and some local business are donating a variety of items including gift baskets and golfing opportunities. Tickets are available for a donation of $1 per single ticket, or $5 for seven tickets. The drawing will be held toward the end of the day on Saturday. All money will go to the Jane Tsushima Grant.

 

For more information please visit www.slartassociation.org or contact us at info@slartassociation.org.

 

ArtFest 2019

Friday, Sept 20 – Saturday, Sept 21

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

San Leandro Main Library

300 Estudillo Ave.

(510) 577-3970

www.slartassociation.org

 

 

Ban on wild animal circus acts

Submitted by Jeff Barbosa

 

California has become the third US state, after New Jersey and Hawaii, to pass legislation banning the use of wild and exotic animals in circuses. Sponsored by Senator Ben Hueso and championed by Animal Defenders International (ADI), SB313 has passed both the Assembly and Senate and now heads to Governor Newsom’s desk. ADI has provided data and testimony in support of SB313 and worked with local advocates and bill sponsors to advance the legislation.

 

Evidence shows that the health and welfare of animals in traveling circuses is inevitably compromised due to necessarily small, barren, mobile accommodations, restricted movement, long journeys, and excessive periods of time spent in transporters and containers. Training methods are brutal—ADI undercover investigations have documented systemic violence and abuse, occurring in the US and worldwide.

 

ADI President Jan Creamer said, “We are thrilled that California continues to take the lead on animal protection issues. ADI has spent years documenting the inherent suffering of wild animals in circuses and we are delighted to see our efforts come to fruition. We urge more states to follow suit.”

 

 

BART Police Log

Submitted by Les Mensinger and BART PD

 

Saturday, September 7

• At 11:01 a.m. a man identified by police as Immanuel March, 19, of Oakland was arrested at Bay Fair station in San Leandro on suspicion of violating a court order, child abduction, resisting arrest and probation violation. He was issued a prohibition order and booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

Wednesday, September 11

• At 1:48 a.m. a man identified by police as Robert Contreas, 32, of Iowa was arrested at Hayward station on a no bail warrant and booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

• At 3:52 p.m. a man was struck and injured by an arriving train at Bay Fair station in San Leandro. Medical personnel took the man to a hospital for treatment. The station was briefly closed, but reopened at about 4:50 p.m.

 

Thursday, September 12

• At 10:13 a.m. a man identified by police as Marcos Lira, 22, of Berkeley was arrested at Hayward station on suspicion of resisting an officer and probation violation. He was issued a prohibition order and booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

 

Looking to help Hurricane Dorian victims? Donate blood

Submitted by Christine Welch

 

As the American Red Cross works around the clock supporting those impacted by Hurricane Dorian, providing food, shelter and comfort, individuals outside the affected areas are urged to help by giving blood or platelets to ensure patients in the storm’s path and around the country have access to lifesaving blood. People can also help by making a financial donation to support relief efforts.

 

Make an appointment to donate blood or platelets by downloading the free American Red Cross Donor app at www.RedCrossBlood.org or by calling 1 (800) 733-2767. Meanwhile, here are in-person blood donation opportunities available in the greater Tri-City area through September 30:

 

• Castro Valley

Redwood Chapel

19300 Redwood Rd.

Sep 28: 9:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

 

• Milpitas

San Jose-Evergreen Community College District Milpitas Extension

1450 Escuela Pkwy

Sep 28: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

 

• Newark

Fremont-Newark Blood Donation Center

39227 Cedar Blvd.

Sep 18-19, 23-24, 25-26, 30: 11:45 a.m. – 6:15 p.m.

Sep 20-21, 27-28: 8:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Sep 22, 29: 8:15 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.

 

 

Calico for Kids

Submitted by Erin Harper

Photos courtesy of Calico for Kids

 

We are excited to hold our “CALICO for Kids annual fundraiser” on Saturday, September 28, in beautiful Preservation Park in downtown Oakland. CALICO (Child Abuse, Listening, Interviewing, and Coordination), headquartered in San Leandro, brings together law enforcement, child welfare, and legal professionals to investigate abuse against children and achieve healing and justice. Our annual fundraiser is our signature event and serves as an opportunity to raise awareness and resources for the vital services CALICO provides.

 

The CALICO for Kids Annual Fundraiser is a lovely afternoon for friends and family to come together while helping young victims of abuse and their families. The day features something for everyone! Picnic-goers can enjoy live music from Rick Baskin and Layin’ Down The Law, play ring toss for a free bottle of wine, or take pictures in the photo booth. Children can play games, have their faces painted and get temporary tattoos.

 

In addition to fun entertainment, there will also be fabulous picnic food from the Bay Area Food Trucks. Sample chicken and waffles from The Waffle Roost, or Filipino burritos from Senor Sisig. Of course, kids will not want to pass up cookies from Bakesale Betty’s. Their parents may be more drawn to complimentary beer, wine, and vodka. A selection of non-alcoholic beverages is also available.

 

A special guest, Oakland Athletics’ mascot “Stomper the Elephant,” will make an appearance from 11:30 – 12:30 to interact with festivalgoers and pose for photos.

 

We will also have tons of raffle prizes you won’t want to miss! You might leave with a getaway to the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa or a certificate to the California Academy of Sciences! Can’t make the event? You can still win the raffle! Purchase raffle tickets online at www.calicocenter.org/annualfundraiser or by phone at (510) 895-0702. Tickets are $20 each or six for $100.

 

Calico for Kids fundraiser

Saturday, Sept 28

11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Preservation Park

13th St. & Martin Luther King Jr. Wy, Oakland

(510) 895-0702

www.calicocenter.org/annualfundraiser

 

 

California bill banning forced arbitration gets early OK

AP Wire Service

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP), Sep 05 – Employers in California could not force workers to give up their right to sue the company under a bill that is likely headed to the governor's desk.

 

The California Senate voted 21-10 on Wednesday to approve a bill that would ban employers from forcing workers to agree to arbitration for some potential disputes with the company. The vote is not yet final, but it has enough votes to pass.

 

The bill would still let workers sign such agreements, but they could not be punished for not signing them. It would only apply to people hired after Jan. 1, 2020.

 

Republican Sen. Jeff Stone of Temecula said the bill violates federal law and will likely be challenged in court.

 

Former Gov. Jerry Brown vetoed a similar bill last year.

Cougars Champions of Character

Submitted by Timothy Hess

 

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

 

 

Football:

Angel Rodriguez

I chose Angel Rodriguez as the champion of character because he shows great leadership on and off the field, he always has a positive attitude, and overall is the type of teammate you want to play with. [Teammate Miles Brandon]

 

Mateo Morales

My Champion of character this week is Mateo Morales because he is always one to work hard on the field, step up to a new position when others don’t. Also shows character off the field as well. He’s respectful to others and is also a student-athlete. These reasons are why Mateo is the champion of character this week. [Teammate Joshua Limtiaco]

 

 

Volleyball:

Varsity – Natalia Colocho

She is very hardworking and always puts forth her best effort. Even when she’s tired or exhausted, she continues to motivate her teammates to try their hardest.

 

Junior Varsity – Raquel Arreola

She is a good leader and someone I look up to. She’s always one of the first to pick me up and is humble. She always gives me tips and I can always go up to her and ask without any shame. I can trust her both on and off the court.

 

 

California lawmakers OK overhaul of charter school approvals

By Don Thompson

Associated Press

 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP), Sep 10 – Lawmakers sent Gov. Gavin Newsom legislation Tuesday that overhauls the way California approves charter schools.

 

The measure approved by the Assembly on a 56-16 vote would no longer let the state authorize charter schools, leaving that responsibility to school districts and county governments. The legislation also would require that all charter schoolteachers be credentialed, while giving existing teachers five years to meet that requirement.

 

The bill will give local districts greater flexibility in considering how the schools affect their community while requiring that charter schoolteachers are fully qualified, said Democratic Assemblyman Patrick O'Donnell of Long Beach, who carried the bill in the Assembly. The measure will also reward higher performing schools by speeding the renewal of their charters, he said.

 

California has about 1,300 charter schools that enroll about 10% of the state's K-12 population. They are publicly funded but operate by different rules than traditional schools.

 

Several Democratic lawmakers spoke in support of what Assemblywoman Wendy Carrillo of Los Angeles called “an historic agreement” between legislative leaders, school officials and labor unions.

 

But several Republicans spoke against the measure.

 

“Charter schools are not the enemy unless you are trying to protect the status quo. What is the status quo? In a word: failure,” said Assembly Republican Leader Marie Waldron of Escondido. She said special interests are trying to limit charter schools that provide an alternative to poorly performing public schools.

 

During Senate debate on Monday night, Republican Sen. Brian Jones of Santee called the bill “another attack of the many this year on charter schools.”

 

But Democratic Sen. Ben Allen of Santa Monica said negotiators “struck the right balance.”

 

“This deal does affirm that if you are an existing, high quality charter school, you are here to stay,” Allen added.

 

Senators approved the bill on a 27-11 roll call.

 

 

Learn the inner workings of law enforcement

Submitted by Sgt. Bryan Hinkley

 

Have you ever wondered how men and women of law enforcement are trained to do their jobs, what a police officer’s job entails, or why they wear all that “stuff” on their belts? All these questions and more will be answered during the Milpitas Police Department’s upcoming Fall 2019 Citizens Police Academy.

 

Through a series of lectures and staged scenarios, citizens in the free four-week course will be provided with hands-on training similar to what officers receive in the police academy. Courses will range from Crime Scene Investigation (CSI), K9 Program, DUI Investigation, Shoot/Don’t Shoot Scenarios and other topics.

 

Meeting times will be 6:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, starting September 30 and continuing through October 23. Because space is limited, advance registrations are strongly recommended, and should be made by calling Officer Kita Inthasack at (408) 586-2526 or by emailing kinthasack@ci.milpitas.ca.gov.

 

Citizens Police Academy

Mondays & Wednesdays, Sept. 30 – Oct. 23

6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Milpitas Police Department

1275 N. Milpitas Blvd., Milpitas

Contact: Officer Kita Inthasack (408) 586-2526

kinthasack@ci.milpitas.ca.gov

 

 

Coastal Cleanup

By Stephanie Gertsch

 

When you think of the San Francisco Bay, you imagine grasses waving, the cries of migrating birds, the salty smell of the mud flats. You don’t think of trash. But as long as people throw out items, and rains wash everything out toward the ocean, trash eventually ends up in the Bay. Volunteer coordinator Paul Mueller says, “It’s rather astonishing to a lot of people who haven’t had the experience before of picking up trash by the bay, how much actually gets into the water.” Sometimes to appreciate the problem of trash, you need to get hands-on experience.

 

In 2019 California will see its 35th “Coastal Cleanup”—a day in the fall when communities gather together to tackle trash in their waterways head on. Mueller is organizing this year’s Coastal Cleanup at the Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge, one of several sites around the East Bay. Even cities without shorelines can do their part, as trash that builds up along creek beds will eventually wash out to the ocean.

 

At the refuge, volunteers can also help by pulling invasive weed species, but the trash problem is literally as constant as tides. “The tides wash in floating trash,” says Mueller. “And often during the course of the rainy season, a line of trash is moved up by the king tides to its highest point.” Trash buildup can be dangerous to animals such as the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse, which can get tangled in nets or drown in washed up buckets. Trash can also degrade grassy habitat that birds like the California Ridgeway Rail need for shelter.

 

In past years, volunteers have pulled some interesting finds from the ocean, including antique lightbulbs and tires from the 1920s and 30s, mattresses, broken up piers, and furniture sets. However, the most problematic type of trash at the refuge is less visually striking. Microtrash, or trash broken down by environmental forces and decay, sounds like it should be a micro-problem, but it’s a sign of a much bigger issue. Mueller says, “When I look at the gravel and the sand, a lot of times I find little pieces of plastic. Sometimes it’s Styrofoam bits…bottle caps, decayed plastic bottles. There’s an ever-growing concern that too much plastic is ending up in our bays and in our oceans.” Plastic microtrash never really goes away; it just gets broken into smaller and smaller pieces as the amount of plastic in the Bay goes up. Animals can ingest tiny fragments, which then work their way up the food chain. It’s hard to know what the long-term effects of all this detritus will be.

 

Hopefully, along with the increasing amounts of plastic, awareness is also on the rise. In recent years, volunteers have reported fewer big trash items, especially plastic bags. This may mean California’s ban on plastic bags handed out at stores is having a positive effect.

 

Like with other Coastal Cleanups, start time at the refuge is 9 a.m., and the event runs until noon. Volunteers are encouraged to wear protective clothing (long pants and sleeves) and hats to block the sun, and bring refillable water bottles. After filling out an agreement form, volunteers will be dispersed to assigned zones for maximum effectiveness. A vehicle will be available to shuttle volunteers to a remote location down the shoreline trail—but they will have to work there for a full 2.5 hours until pickup time. Overall, volunteers should stick to the trails and not disturb habitats. And, of course, not touch any medical waste or other dangerous trash.

 

The Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge has a small staff, so those who pitch in make a difference. “To keep the trails clean, particularly away from the parking lots and further down from the trail heads, we rely on volunteers,” Mueller says. Some help year-round, but in the Bay Area work can be hectic and free time scarce. Hopefully, one-day events like Coastal Cleanup can reach a wider range and bridge the gap between pristine nature, and the work necessary to keep it that way.

 

Mueller remarks, “It’s almost as if some people believe, that if they are throwing out trash maybe that’s a little bit naughty, but they’re the only ones doing it.” When it comes to trash, out of sight can be out of mind, but if you’re not careful how you dispose of waste, your leavings may come back to haunt you at the next high tide.

 

List of Coastal Cleanup Locations

https://www.cleanwaterprogram.org/get-involved/volunteer-in-your-community.html

 

Coastal Cleanup

Saturday, Sept 21

9 a.m. – 12 noon

 

San Leandro Shoreline

Heron Bay entrance to the shoreline trail

(End of Lewelling Blvd., drop-off only)
Monarch Bay Drive Bridge at the end of Marina Park

Contact: Delmarie Snodgrass

dsnodgrass@sanleandro.org

 

Castro Valley Creek

3625 Castro Valley Blvd.

Meet at the creek trail next to KFC

Organizer: Allison Rodacker

(925) 453-3862

Allison.rodacker@acrcd.org

Register by Sept 19

 

Hayward Regional Shoreline

Meet at West Winton Ave. Staging Area

(510) 544-2229

https://www.ebparks.org/parks/hayward/

Shoreline Interpretive Center
8:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Shoreline Interpretive Center

4901 Breakwater Ave, Hayward

(510) 881-7745

cleanupinfo@hayward-ca.gov

Register by Sept 19

 

Central Park

40600 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont

Organizer: Barbara Silva

(510) 494-4575

bsilva@fremont.gov

 

Alameda Creek

Across the street from 1004 Old Canyon Rd., Fremont

 

Don Edwards Refuge

Dumbarton Bridge Parking Lot, Fremont

Contact: Paul Mueller (510) 792-0222 ext. 361.

 

Tularcitos Creek, Milpitas

Gill Park on Paseo Refugio near N. Hillview Dr.

(408) 609-2701

 

 

Local cops raise money for Special Olympics

By Stephanie Gertsch

 

On Thursday, September 12, local law enforcement officers gathered outside Dunkin’ Donuts locations to support Special Olympics and hand out coupons for discount donuts and free coffee. In some locations, cops took to the roofs, but at the Dunkin’ Donuts on Mowry Avenue, Fremont, the event stayed down on the sidewalk due to safety concerns. Attendees could purchase t-shirt or headbands, or simply make a donation in the amount of their choice. Fremont Mayor Lily Mei came out to show support for the cause.

 

Yanneth Contrada, public affairs specialist with the Fremont Police Department, says, “This is our second year partnering with Dunkin’ Donuts across the nation, and all the local police departments actually spend the morning here raising awareness for the Special Olympics athletes… so we’re excited for our second year in this wonderful partnership, and we look forward to doing everything again!”

 

Tom Novello, a coach with Special Olympics in Fremont, spoke about the range of sports the athletes train for. Right now it’s bowling, but throughout the year they do basketball, softball, and other sports. “We have ages from about 12 to 75,” Novello says. “Some do a lot of events, and some of the older folks just do bocce ball and bowling. For instance, we have like 60 bowlers every Monday night at Cloverleaf… that’s what it’s all about, having fun and participating and being with friends.”

 

Through donations and fundraisers like Tip-a-Cop and 5K runs, police officers around the country raised over $2.8 million for Special Olympics in 2018. This money goes toward things like renting venues and providing uniforms. Hopefully 2019 will see a similar turnout in support of these athletes.

 

Learn more about Special Olympics at www.sonc.org.

 

 

Cougars Report

Submitted by Timothy Hess

 

WATER POLO

 

Newark Memorial Cougars vs Mission San Jose Warriors (Fremont)

September 11, 2019

 

At the first water polo game ever played at Mission San Jose High School’s new pool, Newark Memorial swept to start Mission Valley Athletic League action.

 

NM JV girls 11 – MSJ 0

NM Varsity girls 12 – MSJ 0

NM JV boys 16 – MSJ 5

NM Varsity boys 10 – MSJ 5

 

 

Newark Memorial Water Polo Tournament

September 14, 2019

 

Congratulations to the Newark Memorial boy’s water polo team winning the consolation bracket against Irvington High School (Fremont) by a score of 16-11.

 

 

CROSS COUNTRY

 

Monte Vista Invitational

September 3, 2019

 

The Cougar Cross Country team competed at the Monte Vista invitational where the varsity boys impressed with a 3rd place finish.

 

San Francisco Invitational

September 7, 2019

 

At the San Francisco invitational, out of 68 schools, the varsity boys placed 14th led by Eric Lambruschini, Jose Ortega and Diego Ochoa and the girls placed 22nd led by Jasmine Romero and Samantha Armas.

 

 

Unanimous vote supports 2020 census

Submitted by Lauren Sugayan

 

At their Monday, September 9 meeting, City Council members from Union City voted unanimously in support of a resolution for the 2020 Census.

 

The council heard a presentation given by Casey Farmer, Executive Director of the Alameda County Complete Count Committee for Census 2020. The presentation highlighted that Alameda County receives roughly 60% of its revenue from federal and state resources, which is determined using census data. These resources are used to pay for education, housing, roads, health care, and social services.

 

Each person that is not counted equates to a loss of $1,000 in funding per year. An undercount of our population of 6% equals a loss of $1 billion over 10 years. The 2020 Census begins in mid-March 2020 and will be the first digital census. All addresses across the nation will receive a letter in the mail with instructions on how to take the census online, by phone, or to request a paper form. Starting in May 2020, census workers will begin to go door-to-door to addresses that have not completed the census and ask that the resident respond.

 

Alameda County has 413,000 residents who are considered “hard-to-count,” such as seniors, young children, immigrants, and low-income individuals. Union City will be hosting various outreach events beginning early next year to assist residents with the 2020 Census.

 

For more information, please visit:

https://www.unioncity.org/DocumentCenter/View/2863/Census_2020?bidId

 

 

First recipients of down payment assistance program

Submitted by Santa Clara County Public Affairs

 

The first recipients of a down payment assistance program, funded by the 2016 Measure A Affordable Housing Bond, have purchased their homes. The program, called Empower Homebuyers SCC, is intended to help households who make up to 120 percent of the area median income – the “missing middle” in Santa Clara County – become first-time homeowners. So far, the program has helped eight residents from Santa Clara County purchase homes, with another seven in the pipeline.

 

“Santa Clara County’s Empower Homebuyers program really allows the homeowner to have a fighting chance at affording a home, building up that equity, paying us back so that we can give that back to the next resident of our community,” said County of Santa Clara Supervisor Cindy Chavez. “It is one piece of the puzzle to addressing our area’s housing crisis. The early success of this program will inspire us to continue this important work for the countless other families who need it.”

 

Empower Homebuyers SCC was created by the County of Santa Clara with funds from Measure A – the Affordable Housing Bond passed by voters in 2016. Housing Trust Silicon Valley, a nonprofit community development financial institution, is the administrator of the program, which is expected to help approximately 230 first-time homebuyers in the first five years of the program. Empower Homebuyers SCC provides deferred loans for down payments up to 17 percent of a home’s purchase price. Like Housing Trust’s HELP program, the county’s down payment loan program does not require monthly principal or interest payments – borrowers will repay the principal loan amount plus a share of appreciation based on the percentage of the amount borrowed.

 

 

EarthTalk

Dear EarthTalk: I’ve heard that school buses cause a lot of pollution, especially for the kids riding inside. Is anyone making greener school buses yet?

— Jake McConnell, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

 

Now that school is back in session, those big yellow diesel-fueled school buses are all over the roads again. While they’re relatively safe — and definitely old school — they’re also big polluters, chugging along at 4-6 miles to the gallon while creating a cloud of harmful airborne pollutants.

 

According to the non-profit Clean Air Trust (CAT), some 25 million American kids travelling on half a million school buses every day are exposed to five to 15 times more air toxins than the rest of us. “Those buses travel more than four billion miles each year and these kids spend three billion hours on [them],” reports the group. “About 90 percent of these buses run on diesel fuel, annually emitting 3,000 tons of cancer-causing soot and 95,000 tons of smog-causing compounds.”

 

If you don’t think all that pollution is having a negative effect, think again. A March 2019 study from researchers at Georgia State University found that students did significantly better on standardized English tests and marginally better in math when they spent their commutes riding in school buses retrofitted to reduce emissions by 95 percent as compared to students riding in non-upgraded buses. The researchers conclude that “engine retrofits can have meaningful and cost-effective impacts on health and cognitive functioning.”

 

Luckily the retrofits are easy to come by and relatively inexpensive, especially when you factor in the costs of health care to treat sick kids, not to mention the price tag for raising kids’ test scores in other ways. Retrofitting 10 percent of the average school district’s bus fleet in Georgia, for instance, would cost less than $100,000, a drop in the bucket of the state’s $10.6 billion K-12 public schools budget.

 

And beginning in October 2018, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set aside $9 million to help pay for upgrading older diesel school buses nationwide. School districts and other public agencies charged with transporting school kids can apply for rebates of up to $20,000 per bus to help cover the retrofits on up to 10 individual buses.

 

Retrofitting is a great start, but even better would be replacing old buses with new, more efficient all-electric models. But few school districts can justify the $300,000 price tag to replace perfectly functional older diesel buses. That didn’t stop the school district in White Plains, New York, though, which purchased five electric buses last year with financial help from the local utility, Consolidated Edison, and a grant from the state.

 

These outside contributions helped bring the final cost to the school district down to something along the lines of buying new diesel buses. While ConEd gets the benefit of good public relations and good karma, it also gets to use the buses during the summer as excess electricity storage that can be moved around to where it’s needed most (when the air conditioners are blazing). White Plains is hoping other school districts across the country will follow a similar model to clean up their acts.

 

 

EarthTalk is produced by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss for the nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk.org.

 

 

Park It

By Ned MacKay

 

Coastal Cleanup, a statewide volunteer program to pick up trash and recyclables from shoreline parks, lakes and creeks, celebrates its 35th anniversary this year. Volunteers will work from 8:30 a.m. to 12 noon Saturday, September 21. In the regional parks, Coastal Cleanup work is planned at Big Break in Oakley, Martinez Regional Shoreline, Claeys Beach in Rodeo, Point Pinole and Point Isabel in Richmond, Crab Cove and Encinal Beach in Alameda, Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline in Oakland, Hayward Regional Shoreline, and Del Valle Regional Park south of Livermore.

 

An adult should accompany children under 16 years old. Please bring a refillable water bottle, a bucket for trash, and reusable gloves if you have them. All volunteers should wear hats, closed-toe shoes, appropriate layered clothing, and bring sunscreen.

The park district will provide snacks, water, latex gloves and trash bags. For groups of 25 or more, call to confirm participation. For more information, call (888) 327-2757, ext. 2229 or email volunteers@ebparks.org.

 

Speaking of Big Break, Mike Moran, who is the park’s supervising naturalist, will lead one of his citizen-scientist programs there from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Thursday, September 26.

 

Moran has been keeping track of the bird of prey population in East Contra Costa for many years. No experience is necessary to join the program; the naturalists will teach participants how to identify the hawks, falcons and eagles. Moran plans another bird of prey census at the same time frame on Thursday, October 31 at Round Valley south of Brentwood. Both require registration; for details, call (888) 327-2757 and select option 2. For Big Break the registration number is 26800, for Round Valley it’s 26801.

 

Big Break is at 69 Big Break Road, off Oakley’s Main Street. For general information, call (888) 327-2757, ext. 3050.

 

Down the road at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch, there’s an evening hike to Rose Hill Cemetery from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. Sunday, September 22 and Saturday, October 26. Rose Hill Cemetery is where many of the miners who lived in the now-vanished towns of Somersville and Nortonville and their families are buried. Hear their stories of heroism, tragedy and endurance.

 

Meet the naturalist in the parking lot at the end of Somersville Road, 3 ½ miles south of Highway 4 for the 15-minute walk uphill to the cemetery. For information, call (888) 327-2757, ext. 2750.

 

“Radical Raptors of Las Trampas” is the theme of a program from 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon Sunday, September 22 at Las Trampas Regional Wilderness in San Ramon, led by naturalist Ashley Adams.

 

The group will scan the skies for various birds of prey and consider our connection to them. Meet Ashley in the parking lot at the north end of Bollinger Canyon Road off Crow Canyon Road. For information, call (510) 544-3249.

 

Monday, September 23 marks the autumnal equinox, the first day of fall, when day and night are of equal length. Naturalist “Trail Gail” Broesder will anticipate it with a hike from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 22 at Briones Regional Park near Martinez, in search of signs of the season.

 

The hike is for ages 8 and older. Meet Broesder at the Alhambra Creek staging area, which is off Reliez Valley Road between Alhambra Avenue and Blue Ridge Drive.

 

Broesder also plans an Over-The-Hills Gang hike from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 24 at Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve in the Oakland hills. The Gang is an informal group of hikers 55 and older who enjoy exercise and natural history. This is a hilly but shady walk through a variety of plant communities. No dogs, please.

 

Meet Broesder at the trailhead on Skyline Boulevard about a mile south of the intersection with Grizzly Peak Boulevard in the Oakland hills. For information on either the Briones or Huckleberry hike, call (510) 544-2233.

 

Autumn is also the theme of a Wednesday Walk with naturalist Susan Ramos, scheduled for 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, September 25 at Anthony Chabot Regional Park north of Castro Valley. This is a 4-mile, sometimes strenuous hike through a meadow, up and down hills and along city streets.

 

Meet Ramos at the Bort Meadow trailhead, which is on Redwood Road about 3½ miles south of the intersection with Skyline Boulevard in Oakland. There are restrooms about a quarter-mile from the trailhead. For information, call (510) 544-3187.

 

Fall is a great time for hiking, bicycling and other outdoor activities. For complete information on park district programs, visit www.ebparks.org. And remember, Fridays are free in the regional parks through the end of the year, in celebration of the district’s 85th anniversary.

 

 

Editorial

Unity of purpose

 

We have just passed another anniversary of a dark milestone in the history of our country. The “date that will live in infamy,” previously invoked by Franklin D. Roosevelt following the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, was repeated when the United States was assaulted on September 11, 2001. Known by its shorthand of “9/11,” the three-pronged attack resulted in the death of thousands, destruction of the World Trade Center, damage to the Pentagon and an airplane crash in Pennsylvania. The resulting shock by people around the world galvanized a unity of purpose to understand why this happened and seek revenge for the heinous crime.

 

Although the result was a mixed bag of individual actions, overall the response to this threat to our democratic system and wholesale carnage was a consensus to aid and comfort those directly and indirectly involved in the catastrophe. The same reaction is usually evoked during natural disasters and personal tragedy. Human nature, for the most part, is comforting and empathetic. When faced with threats of significant change, our natural positive responses do battle with fear, anxiety and uncertainty. Examples of intolerance and base actions can be found but, overall, most find comfort in a united and principled stance.

 

One of the most vexing problems facing our communities is the precarious economic environment. For some there is little problem paying bills and enjoying the fine weather and amenities of the Bay Area. However, this is a relatively small slice of our population. For many, the comfortable lifestyle of a middle-class economy has disappeared and as the wealth gap has widened, those who struggle to make ends meet have been squeezed into untenable positions without the means to compete for a meager supply of truly affordable housing. The choice left is chilling – roof, food or medicine. In many cases a downward spiral is inevitable. For others, the fear of falling into the economic trap of poverty is terrifying.

 

Recent actions by the Fremont City Council to define and locate a Housing Navigation Center culminated in a display of heightened interest and community involvement that is rarely seen in the greater Tri-City community. Although passionate debate of the merits and placement were on display, discourse was civil and reasoned. In the end, a decision was made to locate the center next to City Hall and now all the rhetoric, promises, suggestions and statistics will be put to the test.

 

Just as with other significant decisions and occurrences, once an action plan is in motion, the time is right to consolidate our differences in a sense of purpose. In this case, the goal of adding another method to aid fellow citizens should be paramount; the fervor shown in favor or against specific proposals now abandoned in favor of action to ensure that a positive outcome emerges. It was heartening to witness community engagement that adheres to lawful protocol when confronted by significant change. As other issues of importance rise, so should the aspiration toward a common goal of living in a safe, clean and harmonious environment.

 

 

Neighborhood emergency response training classes

Submitted by the City of Hayward

 

In the aftermath of an earthquake, fire or other regional disaster, it’s always good to be prepared. That’s the idea behind the Neighborhood Emergency Response Team (NERT) class being offered by the Hayward Fire Department.

 

This free, four-hour emergency preparedness class focuses on training neighborhood, community organization, or workplace teams of at least 15 to 20 people in basic emergency response skills. Each class is taught by Hayward Fire Department personnel at various locations.

 

The goal is for emergency personnel to train people in basic response skills at their location. NERT members are then integrated into the emergency response capability for their area. Participants must be at least 18 years old and live, work, or attend school in the City of Hayward or the Fairview Fire Protection District.

 

Topics covered include:

• Types of emergencies most likely to arise in Hayward
• Identifying and reducing potential fire hazards
• Techniques for opening airways, controlling bleeding and treating shock
• Performing head-to-toe assessments, and selection and set up of treatment areas
• Basics of wound treatment

 

For more information about NERT and how to register a team of people for training, visit the NERT website at www.hayward-ca.gov/NERT. To learn more about general disaster preparedness and additional free preparedness courses offered by the Hayward Fire Department, visit www.hayward-ca.gov/fire-department/disaster-preparedness.

 

 

Express to De-Stress winners

Submitted by Pallas Wang

 

Express to De-Stress—A creative way for teens to talk about stress and inspirations to relieve it! To support its student initiative project to raise awareness of teen stress, SoundPost Youth Foundation organized the Express to De-Stress survey and video contest, aiming to have teens inspire each other by sharing ways to alleviate stress, learn to balance emotion and stay positive. The video contest invited 7th to 12th grade California teens to submit videos sharing their stories or expressing how they best deal with stress and emotions.

 

Winners of the video contest were announced on September 8th during the “Express to De-Stress Award Ceremony” at Milpitas Library. Following the introduction of finalists and presentation about survey data, winners were announced and awarded by the Judges.

 

Winners:

1st Place: Lark Chang-Yeh, 12th grade at Northgate High School, “Express to Destress”

2nd Place: Sara Voong, 10th grade at Oakland Technical High School, “No Summer Bummers”

3rd Place: Iha Bharadwaj, 10th grade at Mission San Jose High School, “Express to De-stress”

 

3rd Place winners:

Max Luo, 10th grade at Henry M. Gunn High School, “How I Destress Myself”

Justin Lam, 10th grade at Livermore High School, “How 2 Not Stress”

 

Viewers’ choice:

Meriem Cherif, 12th grade at Westmont High School, “Ways to Destress”

 

SoundPost Youth Foundation is a non-profit organization with the primary goal of providing a platform to enhance youth development through community engagement and outreach activities.   To learn more about the Express to De-Stress project and SoundPost Youth Foundation, visit www.soundpostyouth.org/express-to-de-stress.  All eleven Finalist videos can be viewed at soundpostcontest.weebly.com.

 

 

Facebook expands new tool aiming to shrink ‘news deserts'

By Barbara Ortutay

AP Technology Writer

 

SAN FRANCISCO (AP), Sep 12 – Facebook is trying to coax “news deserts” into bloom with the second major expansion of a tool that exposes people to more local news and information. But the social network confesses that it still has a lot to learn.

 

The social media giant said Thursday it is expanding its “Today In” service to 6,000 cities and towns across the U.S., up from 400 in its previous iteration. Launched in early 2018, the service lets Facebook users opt into local news and information from local organizations. Such news can include missing-person alerts, local election results, road closures and crime reports.

 

The tool lives within the Facebook app; turning it on adds local updates to a user's regular news feed. In areas with scant local news, Facebook will add relevant articles from surrounding areas.

 

The service won't automatically turn on for people even in the areas it serves, which could limit its reach. So far, Facebook says, 1.6 million people have activated Today In. They receive news from some 1,200 publishers every week.

 

The service aggregates posts from the official Facebook pages for news organizations, government agencies and community groups like dog shelters. It uses software filters to weed out objectionable content.

 

Facebook employs no human editors for Today In, so tweaking its algorithm to find relevant local stories has been a complicated process. Does a road closure matter if it's 100 miles away? How about a murder?

 

Some 1,800 newspapers have closed in the United States over the past 15 years, according to research from the University of North Carolina. Newsroom employment has declined by 45% as the industry struggles with a broken business model partly caused by the success of companies on the internet, including Facebook.

 

“There is no silver bullet,” Campbell Brown, head of global news partnerships at Facebook, said in an interview. “We really want to help publishers address challenges in local markets.”

 

Brown, a former news anchor and host at NBC and CNN, said local reporting remains the most important form of journalism today. She said Facebook has a responsibility to support journalism, while also noting that the media industry has been in decline “for a very long time.”

 

Local news is just one part of the Today In feature, which also includes posts from local groups along with events and community announcements from schools and governments. A news section within the section shows stories from local newspapers, blogs and TV stations. Facebook isn't paying licensing fees or sharing ad revenue with these outlets, but says the tool is driving new readers to local news outlets.

 

Already, Facebook says it's learned from publishers' input about what doesn't work. For instance, it now only allows posts from publishers registered with its “News page index,” which means they meet guidelines such as a focus on current events and information, citing sources and including dates and don't have a record of publishing false news and misinformation. This means that obituaries from funeral homes, or real estate posts – both of which previously showed up under “news” – are no longer eligible.

 

The company says publishers featured in Today In see a significant increase in “referral traffic” to their websites from Facebook, more so than when people see the same stories in their regular news feed, based on data from its test partners.

 

Google also announced changes to its news service Thursday, saying it would slightly alter its search system so original news stories on a topic show up before follow-ups or repeated news from other publications. Similar to Facebook, the company has been working on showing news articles from authoritative, proven publications.

 

Jimmy O'Keefe, a product marketing manager at Facebook, said that while people scroll through their news feeds passively, people engage with articles more when they appear in Local In.

 

Outside researchers studying local news data provided by Facebook found that about half of the news stories in the Today In feature met what they called a “critical information need” in the communities it served. This could be helpful for news publishers in determining coverage priorities and for Facebook as it tweaks how it presents news to its users.

 

Facebook has also learned that local news doesn't work like national news. Political stories, for instance, don't generate a lot of local interest.

 

When researchers looked at the types of news stories Facebook showed and how users interacted with them, they found that Facebook users interacted the most with stories serving a critical need – such as information on emergencies, transportation and health. While there were more “non-critical” stories available, on sports, for instance, people didn't interact with those to the same degree. The researchers – Matthew Weber at the University of Minnesota and Peter Andriga and Philip Napoli at Duke University – received no funding from Facebook.

 

The expansion to 6,000 cities still doesn't include large metro areas such as New York City, Los Angeles or San Francisco, where the abundance of news and population density makes it more difficult to provide relevant local information. A big local story in Brooklyn, for instance, might be irrelevant in the same borough just a few miles away.

 

 

Fair homeowner association elections bill approved

Submitted by Jeff Barbosa

 

SACRAMENTO – Stronger oversight of elections in California’s more than 50,000 homeowner associations (HOAs) is one step closer to taking effect after the state Assembly approved SB 323 by Senator Bob Wieckowski (D-Fremont). The bill will go to the Senate September 13 for a concurrence vote.

 

“HOA board members have broad power to fine residents, sue residents, and even foreclose on their homes,” said Wieckowski, a member of the Senate Housing Committee. “Unfortunately, that power is sometimes also used to control who can run for office and who has a seat at the table. Homeowners with minor or fabricated violations are disqualified from running for a board seat by associations more interested in maintaining the status quo than holding fair elections. SB 323 will change that by ensuring that HOA members are not disenfranchised.”

 

The bill limits the power of incumbent boards to set arbitrary “qualifications” for homeowners wanting to run for a board seat. It requires that an inspector of elections be a neutral third party and that ballots be counted in an accessible location. It also gives guidance to the courts hearing challenges to election procedures and results.

 

“The California Alliance for Retired Americans (CARA) is a fierce advocate of the consumer protection of seniors living in HOAs because for most seniors, their homes are their chief financial asset,” said CARA Legislative Director Hene Kelly. “If they lose their homes, they can’t re-enter the workforce and earn enough money to buy a new one. Too often seniors report to us how they are denied the right to vote and the right to run for a board seat because of the “qualifications” set by the boards. SB 323 makes sure these fundamental rights will not be denied to homeowners.”

 

In addition to CARA, SB 323 is supported by the Center for California Homeowner Association Law, American Civil Liberties Union, Greater Sacramento Urban League and the Nonprofit Housing Association of Northern California.

 

Senator Wieckowski represents the 10th District, which includes southern Alameda County and parts of Santa Clara County.

 

 

Asking for a Flex Work Schedule

By Anne Chan, PhD, MFT

 

You love your job, your co-workers, and even your manager, but you are reaching your limit with your daily commute grind. You decide that it is time to make a move to a new job with a better commute. But hang on, before you start polishing your resume, you might want to consider asking your manager for a flexible work arrangement.

 

These days, more and more companies are becoming aware of the challenges of long commutes and are taking steps to retain their employees by offering flex work options. In fact, the City of San Francisco passed an ordinance that gives certain employees with caregiving responsibilities the right to request flexible work arrangements. Other companies have implemented flexible policies that give managers guidelines for workers wanting a different work arrangement.

 

The above sounds promising, except that that these policies don’t require managers to approve flex work for every employee. Indeed, the San Francisco ordinance only gives employees the right to ask for flexible hours. This might be the kind of right that doesn’t translate to beneficial action for the employee—asking for flex work doesn’t mean that you are guaranteed this benefit.

 

Policies and ordinances aside, it seems that flexibility at work depends greatly on individual managers. There appears to be a great variation in how different managers handle the issue of flex work. Some are strictly “butts in your chair” types who require their employees to check in at 9 a.m. sharp and not leave till 5 p.m. On the other extreme are bosses who allow their employees to work from home, or in some cases, from other states.

 

It might be daunting to ask your boss for a flexible work arrangement. In most instances, however, you have gained nothing if you venture nothing. If you suspect that your boss might punish you for asking for flex work, you likely have bigger problems on your hands than your schedule. I would encourage employees to consider asking for a flex schedule if such an arrangement works for your manager and the company. The key is to be well prepared for this conversation. You don’t necessarily have to write a formal proposal (unless this is a strategy that might favor you), but you do have be well prepared with your talking points. It might seem counterintuitive, but the key is to focus on how this arrangement would benefit your boss, and not you.

 

Here are the steps toward having this important conversation with your boss:

1. Carefully read your company’s policy (particularly the parts pertaining to flexible work) and note any statements that apply to you. If you work in San Francisco, review the Family Friendly Workplace Ordinance: https://sfgov.org/olse/family-friendly-workplace-ordinance-ffwo
2. Write down all the ways in which a flex schedule will benefit your boss, your team, and the company. Perhaps a flex schedule will allow you to take on additional responsibilities. Perhaps you will be able to tackle a project that has been put on the backburner. A key question for you to answer is: “How will I get my job done with no or minimal inconvenience to my boss and co-workers?”
3. List all the objections that your boss might have. Common ones are how this will affect team morale, how your absence will affect the work, and problems with communication.
4. After doing #3, write down ways in which you will work so that each of these problems will not be an issue. For instance, in terms of communication, you might say that you will be available on skype at specific periods of time during the workday, or you might want to designate the hours when you will be logged in.
5. During your conversation, you might want to suggest a trial period to work out any kinks. Keep track of your productivity during this period to show that this is an advantageous work arrangement for all concerned.

 

If your boss turns you down, you can still get flex work by working for companies that do allow you to work from home. One website that showcases flex jobs is www.flexjobs.com. However, I hope that you won’t have to switch jobs, because you put together a winning flex work proposal for your boss.

 

 

Anne Chan is a career counselor and licensed psychotherapist in Fremont. She specializes in helping people find happiness in their careers and lives. You can reach her at annechantcv@gmail.com.

© Anne Chan, 2019

 

 

Fremont Unified School Board Highlights

Submitted by Brian Killgore

 

At its September 11th meeting, The Fremont Unified School District (FUSD) Board of Education:

 

• Approved administrative appointments:

1. Lucus Bogle – chief technology officer: Bogle comes to Fremont with 21 years of experience in education technology and most recently serving as the director of information systems for the ninth largest and most diverse district in Minnesota. Bogle holds a master’s from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota and a bachelor's from the University of Minnesota.

 

2. Bridget Hall – assistant principal, Mission San Jose High School: Hall received her bachelor's degree from Michigan University and her master's degree from San Jose State University. She has been employed with the Milpitas Unified School District since 2003. During her time at Milpitas High School, she served in various roles including; department chair, PLC lead teacher, head Track and Field coach and AVID teacher.

 

3. Michelle Spurgeon – assistant principal, Forest Park Elementary School: Spurgeon has been with Fremont Unified since 2008. Spurgeon began her career at Glankler Early Learning Center before moving to Patterson Elementary School. Most recently, Spurgeon has been working as an instructional coach in the Curriculum & Instruction Department.

 

• Approved first reading of Board Policy 6173, Education for Students without Permanent Housing and Review the Administrative Regulation. The governing board desires to ensure that students without permanent housing have access to the same public education provided to other students in the district. The district shall provide students without permanent housing with access to education and other services necessary for them to meet the same academic standards as other students.

 

• Received lead content in drinking water – Testing and Status Presentation. FUSD representatives met with Alameda County Water District to implement a plan to meet the new requirements for testing water in the school district. Between March 2017 and June 2018, the drinking water at all the school sites was sampled and tested to obtain the lead content. Samples were taken at the main point of entrance to the property (ACWD supply) and at five water faucets or drinking fountains throughout the sites with all schools testing at acceptable levels.

 

• Held public hearing on the Preliminary Environmental Assessment (PEA) Report for the former Williamson site, 3350 Eggers Drive. The environmental report and supporting documents are available for review at the FUSD Education Center and at Fremont Main Library. The public comment period for the PEA Report began on September 6 and continues through October 7. Written comments on the PEA Report will be accepted during this time. Comments should be directed to the attention of John Chwastyk, director of facilities, Fremont Unified School District, 4210 Technology Drive, Fremont.

 

 

Fremont City Council

September 10, 2019

 

Consent Calendar:

• Report actions during council recess.
• Approve Master Service Agreements for land use and development services.
• Authorize Master Service Agreements with Hines EDM, Inc. and ImageNet, LLC for on-call scanning services.
• Authorize contract with Alameda County Health Care Services Agency.
• Authorize Joint Powers Agreement with Fremont Unified School District for mental health, family support, substance abuse treatment, outreach, education. Funded through Kaiser Permanente.
• Authorize purchase of software support and subscription and maintenance of web-based solution for reservation and registration.
• Authorize agreement with Matrix Consulting for police organizational workload study.

 

Other Business:

• Decision on implementation and location of Housing Navigation Center at either City Hall or Decoto site. Analysis of community outreach cost and data was presented by staff. Approximately 400 speakers expressed opinions ranging from a preferred site location to opposition to grant funds for a navigation center rather than alternative use of funds for homeless residents. Following over five hours devoted to the topic at this meeting plus extensive time for discussion and outreach, council voted unanimously to approve the City Hall site. Initial occupancy of 45 people is anticipated mid-2020.

 

Housing Navigation Center overview:

• City Hall rear parking lot site selected
• Top community concerns: crime, safety, accessibility to services, reduce homelessness.
• House 45 people for an average of six months; on-site management 24/7 by Bay Area Community Services; support services for permanent housing solutions.
• No walk-ins or drop-ins; dorm-style living.
• Funding from State ($3.7M), City ($3.2M) and County ($0.8M).
• Construction estimate $2.374M.
• Permit/Construction period begins: October 2019.
• Occupancy mid-2020.

 

 Additional information is available at www.fremont.gov

 

Mayor Lily Mei                       Aye

Vice Mayor Raj Salwan          Aye

Vinnie Bacon                          Aye

Rick Jones                               Aye

Teresa Keng (District 1)         Aye

Jenny Kassan (District 3)        Aye

Yang Shao (District 4)            Aye

 

 

Tri-City Voice greets visitors

 

Friday, September 13th was an auspicious day at Tri-City Voice as a group of inquisitive people from Fremont Unified School District stopped by to talk with personnel at the newspaper’s offices in Fremont. After a brief presentation of the business aspects of collecting and disseminating news in the world of communication that has left typewriters and teletypes far behind, it was the visitors’ turn to ask questions of Editor-in-Chief William Marshak.

 

Each participant came prepared to expand their knowledge of the newspaper business by asking about how articles are created and formatted for printing, newspaper operations and departments, advertising and financial issues. It turned out that Friday, the 13th was a memorable and positive experience for everyone!

 

 

A festive and heart-warming evening

Submitted by Ken Sommer

Photos by ConradsPhotography

 

On Saturday, September 28, staff and friends of George Mark Children’s House will host their 15th annual “Autumn Celebration,” a fundraiser to support families of children with life-limiting illnesses. The event takes place on the beautiful grounds of the George Mark Children’s House, five picturesque acres in San Leandro. George Mark Children’s House is the first freestanding pediatric palliative care center in the United States, and a leader in the pediatric palliative care movement. Since 2004, the exceptional staff at the George Mark Children’s House has served more than 3,000 children, parents and siblings.

 

In addition to inspirational stories and house tours, guests will enjoy a gourmet dinner from Barbara Llewelyn Catering, and live entertainment from Jim Keefe Ensemble, Jiten Daiko Children’s Taiko Drummers, and Pacific BoyChoir. Among the live and silent auction prizes are travel packages to destinations such as Bali, Mexico, and Pebble Beach; VIP tickets to the Campionship at the 2020 Masters Gold Tournament; VIP viewing for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade; and a Bay cruise on a private yacht.

 

Families with a patient at George Mark never see a bill, and its model of care is offered at significantly less cost than that of an acute care hospital facility. “We provide safe, exceptional care to children in the comfort and warmth of a home-like setting, and we extend this support to every one of their families,” said Founder and Board President Kathy Hull. “We are deeply grateful to our supporters, who have helped us to improved the quality of lives of these children and provide a compassionate, supportive atmosphere.”

 

Individual tickets are $375. Sponsorships range from $4,000 to $25,000 and are available online at GeorgeMark.org, by email at ksommer@georgemark.org, or by calling (510) 346-1269. For additional information, visit www.georgemark.org.

 

George Mark Children’s House autumn celebration fundraiser

Saturday, Sept 28

5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

George Mark Children’s House
2121 George Mark Ln., San Leandro

Tickets: $375

www.georgemark.org

 

 

GM hires Google to make infotainment system more like phones

AP Wire Service

 

DETROIT (AP), Sep 05 – General Motors is hiring Google to run key parts of its dashboard infotainment system, admitting that the tech firm can do a better job.

 

GM says research shows customers want technology embedded in their vehicle, and they want it to match how their smartphones operate.

 

The company says Google will work to bring its voice assistant into vehicles worldwide as well as navigation and in-vehicle apps. It's scheduled to happen starting in 2021.

 

The company says the Google system will be better than past GM attempts. Drivers will be able to use Google Assistant to make calls, text friends or even set the temperature in their vehicles.

 

“I think we're going to get a better experience, no doubt in my mind,” GM Vice President of Connected Customer Experience Santiago Chamorro said in an interview. The natural language capability of Google Assistant keeps improving and will make it easier for people to talk to their cars, he said.

 

After many lackluster attempts at developing their own systems, automakers have been moving integrate phones into infotainment systems. Most cars now can project smartphones onto car screens with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay.

 

GM wouldn't release terms of its contract with Google. The deal is only with Google and does not cover any other units of its parent, Alphabet Inc., including its autonomous vehicle unit Waymo, GM said.

 

 

Hayward Executive Airport Open House

Submitted by City of Hayward

Photos by Victor Carvellas

 

This year’s event, “Celebrating Women in Aviation,” will take place on Sunday, September 22. Entry and parking for the open house are free to the public. Dozens of airplanes, from vintage models to business jets and helicopters, will be on display, including a Lockheed C-130J. There also will be displays of classic cars, and the Hayward Fire and Police departments will be on hand with emergency response vehicles.

 

Free airplane rides are available for kids between the ages of eight and 17 courtesy of the Experimental Aircraft Association’s Young Eagles Program. Registration for rides is required and will be on a first-come, first-serve basis starting Sunday, Sept. 15, at 1 a.m. Visit the Young Eagles Program website for more information: https://youngeaglesday.org/.

 

Also featured this year are low-cost airplane rides for adults and children who were unable to secure a free ride form the Young Eagles, plus music from local DJs, great food, a climbing wall and many other family-friendly attractions.

 

For more information about the Hayward Executive Airport and the annual open house, visit their website www.haywardairport.org.

 

Celebrating women in aviation

Sunday, Sept 22

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Hayward Executive Airport

20301 Skywest Dr., Hayward

(510) 293-8678

www.hayward-ca.gov/airport

 

 

Hayward city council meeting

September 10, 2019

 

Closed session announcements:

• Council met to discuss pending litigation under category workers compensation. Council approved 2 cases. 7-0

 

Presentations:

• Certificate of Commendation to Downtown Streets Team for being selected as non-profit of the year. They will also receive the mayor’s award at the annual Hayward volunteer recognition and awards dinner. They have provided compassionate and innovative leadership through their work and collaboration with other governmental organizations, nonprofits, and the community.
• Certificate of commendation to Nina Collins, human resources director for the City of Hayward upon her retirement.

 

Public comments:

• Tony Chaplin, Chief of police for Hayward formally introduced himself to community and offered his services.
• Colleague of Nina Collins shared her gratitude.
• Resident was concerned with car speeding by the intersection on Torrano Ave. and Mission Blvd.
• Members of Lt. Frank Reasoner detachment 919 invited council and community to the 25th annual marine corp. birthday breakfast held November 2 in San Leandro.
• President of Hayward Chamber of commerce summarized business openings in July and future city events.
• International youth fellowship member invited council and community to their annual Christmas Cantata event in Daly City September 28.
• Councilmember Mendall recommended community to visit Round 1 arcade and bowling alley in Southland mall.

Action Item:

• Appointments and reappointments of new and re-appointed members to the Community Services Commission, Keep Hayward Clean and Green Task Force, Library Commission, Personnel Commission and Planning Commission were sworn in by city clerk Lens. 7-0.

Consent Calendar:

• Award construction contract to Con-Quest Contractors, Inc. for recycled Water Customer Onsite Conversions Project.
• Resolution allocating $379,716 in HOME Investment Partnership funds and renewal of Rental Housing grant with Adobe services to provide rental assistance to emancipated and former foster care youth. 6-0-1 (Recuse, Wahab).

 

Council Reports and Announcements:

• East Bay Community Energy update by councilmember Mendall

 

Council Referrals:

• Consider corrective actions with Reliant regarding mass displacement of Leisure Terrace tenants. Report from councilmember Wahab. Motion 4 recommendations to referral: to appropriate compensation for misplaced tenants, work with Reliant to stop evictions of existing tenants, remove exemption of the Just Cause Ordinance and conduct legal analysis of report and referring item to Housing and Task force committee to meet in 4 to 6 weeks after further information is gathered. No votes were submitted for this item at this time.

 

Mayor Barbara Halliday         Aye

Al Mendall                              Aye

Francisco Zermeño                 Aye

Sara Lamnin                            Aye

Elisa Márquez                         Aye

Aisha Wahab                           Aye, 1 Recuse

Mark Salinas                           Aye

 

 

Chabad offers no-cost services for the Jewish high holidays

Submitted by Chabad of Fremont

 

It’s almost time for the Jewish New Year. Rosh Hashanah is celebrated with traditional foods, prayer and the sounding of the Shofar. Yom Kippur, the day of atonement, is commemorated by prayer and fasting.

 

The sounding of the shofar is the central tradition of Rosh Hashana. Typically, it is part of synagogue services. However, if for any reason one did not attend services, the shofar sounding can be fulfilled throughout the day of Rosh Hashana. The mitzvah of shofar also contains many deep and inspiring messages for us to reflect on.

 

“According to Jewish tradition, the gates of Heaven are open on the New Year, and G-d accepts prayers from everyone,” said Rabbi Moshe Fuss from the Chabad of Fremont Jewish Community Center. “That serves as our inspiration to keep our doors open as well to the entire community.”

 

Rosh Hashanah begins this year at sundown on Sunday, September 29, and extends until nightfall on Tuesday, October 1. Yom Kippur begins Tuesday, October 8 at sundown and extends until nightfall on Wednesday, October 9.

 

For more information about Chabad’s services or to reserve a space, visit their website at www.chabadfremont.com or call (510) 300-4090.

 

 

NTSB: California should fix highway safety barriers faster

By Olga R. Rodriguez

Associated Press

 

SAN FRANCISCO (AP), Sep 09 – The National Transportation Safety Board issued a safety recommendation Monday urging California transportation officials to move faster to repair highway safety barriers damaged by vehicles.

 

The recommendation comes in a report that says California officials failed to fix a Highway 101 safety barrier before a fatal March 2018 collision in Mountain View that killed Apple engineer Walter Huang.

 

The barrier had been damaged 11 days earlier by the driver of a 2010 Toyota Prius traveling in excess of 75 mph (120 kmh) when he crashed against the attenuator – a device that protects vehicles from hitting the end of concrete lane dividers. The 31-year-old man survived the crash and was treated for a fractured finger and “a small tear of the intimal layer of the aorta,” the NTSB said.

 

The California Highway Patrol responded to the March 12 crash but did not notify the California Department of Transportation of the damage as required, the board said.

 

On March 23, Huang's 2017 Tesla Model X was in Autopilot and traveling at 71 mph (114 kph) when it crashed against the same attenuator. Huang died at a hospital from his injuries.

 

“The safety benefits of a functioning crash attenuator were demonstrated by the differences between the level of driver injuries in the two March 2018 crashes that took place at this location,” the NTSB said.

 

What caused the Tesla to crash remains under investigation. A final report for that crash and a safety report on electric vehicles are expected to be completed next year, the NTSB said.

 

“Rather than wait to complete all facets of this crash investigation, we have moved ahead with issuing this safety recommendation report in the interest of motorists' safety,” said Robert Molloy, Director of the NTSB's Office of Highway Safety.

 

The recommendation was issued to the California State Transportation Agency, the state agency that provides oversight for the California Department of Transportation, and the California Highway Patrol, the federal agency said.

 

California Department of Transportation spokesman Matt Rocco said the department is reviewing the NTSB report to determine its next steps but declined to answer questions.

 

“Safety remains Caltrans top priority,” he said.

 

The NTSB said it previously identified problems with the maintenance of California highways in a fatal 2016 crash in San Jose involving a bus that crashed against a barrier on Highway 101 that had been damaged 44 days earlier and had not been fixed. The January 2016 Greyhound bus crash killed two and injured over a dozen others.

 

“In those 44 days, a retroreflective marker was not replaced, and that missing marker contributed to the motorcoach crash,” the agency said.

 

Transportation for America, a nonpartisan group that advocates for more federal highway funding, ranks California's roads as second-worst in the country with only 17% in good condition.

 

Jason Levine, an attorney and executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, a nonprofit consumer group, declined comment on whether the NTSB report could be advantageous for plaintiffs suing California over poor highway infrastructure. But he said the NTSB's findings show the crucial role that infrastructure plays in car safety.

 

“Just as higher priority should be given to safety standards and equipment for new cars, policy makers at all levels must recognize a lack of road repair resources may have life or death consequences,” Levine said.

 

 

India Community Center Banquet

Submitted by Vandana Ghandi

Photos by In Focus Photography

 

On Saturday, September 21, India Community Center (ICC) will recognize inspiring individuals and discuss how the organization will continue to serve the Bay Area’s Indian community at their 16th annual banquet—and also enjoy an evening of entertainment and gourmet food!

 

The event will involve a networking and cocktail reception, and dinner of sophisticated and flavorful Indian cuisine provided by Jalsa Catering. Riyaaz Qawwali Group will perform their signature Sufi music, representing the diversity of South Asia.

 

This year Inspire Awards will be given in the category of Performing Arts. Recipients are: Kala Ramnath, Mythili Kumar (of Abhinaya Dance Company), Mahesh Kale, Pt. Swapan Chaudhury, and Riyaaz Qawwali Group.

 

Dress for this event is Indian or Western formal. Valet service and childcare (for ages 4-10) are available. Pre-registration is required for childcare.

 

ICC Banquet

Saturday, Sept 21

5 p.m. – 11 p.m.

525 Los Coches St., Milpitas

(408) 934-1130

http://www.indiacc.org/

 

 

CONTINUING EVENTS:

 

Mondays, May 14 – Dec 30

English Conversation Group

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Practice spoken English in a friendly environment

Union City Branch Library

34007 Alvarado Niles Rd., Union City

(510) 745-1464

 

Fridays, May 17 – Oct 25

Fremont Street Eats

5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Food trucks, beer, wine, music

Town Fair Plaza

39100 State St., Fremont

fremontstreeteats.com

 

Thursdays, Jun 20 – Sep 19

Fatherhood Class

6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Relationship, parenting, management, job search skills

Fremont Family Resource Center, Pacific Room #H800

39155 Liberty St. (at Capitol), Fremont

(888) 308-1767

www.r3academy.org/fremont

 

Thursday-Sunday, Aug 9 – Sep 21

Annual Textile Exhibit

12 noon – 5 p.m.

Traditional and contemporary artists

Olive Hyde Art Gallery

123 Washington Blvd., Fremont

(510) 791-4357

www.olivehydeartguild.org

 

Friday – Sunday, Aug 16 – Oct 5

Planet Hayward

11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Eclectic collection of art celebrating “The Heart of the Bay”

Sun Gallery

1015 E St., Hayward

(510) 581-4050

www.sungallery.org

 

Wednesdays, Aug 21 – Oct 30

Citizen Police Academy R

5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Volunteers train to assist Newark Police

Newark Police Department

37101 Newark Blvd., Newark

(510) 578-4000

(510) 578-4352

beverly.ryans@newark.org

 

Saturdays – Sundays, Sep 1 – Oct 27

Nature Crafts

10 a.m. – 12 noon

Discover the natural world through your artistic side

Sunol Regional Wilderness

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3249

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturdays – Sundays, Sep 1 – Oct 27

Wild Wonders

2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Games, activities, crafts for all ages

Sunol Regional Wilderness

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3249

www.ebparks.org

 

Sundays, Sep 1 – Oct 27

Animal Feeding Time

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Discuss reptiles, observe feeding time

Sunol Regional Wilderness

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3249

www.ebparks.org

 

1st & 3rd Sundays, Sep 1 – Oct 20

Sunday Cinema at the Newark Library

2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Enjoy a classic, superhero flick or 80's film. Sing-a-longs

Newark Branch Library

6300 Civic Terrace Ave., Newark

(510) 284-0684

www.aclibrary.com

 

Sundays, Sep 1 – Oct 19

Dove Gallery “Parables: Art with a Message” Exhibit

12 noon – 3 p.m.

Art inspired by meaningful experiences and deep convictions

Park Victoria Baptist Church

875 S. Park Victoria Dr., Milpitas

(408) 464-5011

dove@parkvictoria.org

 

Tuesdays, Sep 3 – Sep 24

Yoga For Everybody R$

7 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Gain strength, flexibility, and mental focus

Kenneth C. Aitken Center

17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley

(510) 881-6738

www.haywardrec.org

 

Fridays, Sep 3 – Nov 5

Fremont Bridge Club

10 a.m.

Open stratified and newcomer games

Bronco Billy’s Pizza – Irvington

41200 Blacow Road, Fremont

(510) 438-0121

www.unit500.org

 

Wednesdays, Sep 4 – Sep 25

Wild Goose Qigong $

9:15 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.

Beginning class on mind-body practice

Kenneth C. Aitken Center

17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley

(510) 881-6738

www.haywardrec.org

 

Thursdays, Sep 5 – Sep 26

Lap Harp $

1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Easy to learn lap zither

Kenneth C. Aitken Center

17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley

(510) 881-6738

www.haywardrec.org

 

Fridays, Sep 6 – Sep 27

Toddler Ramble $

10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.

Some Like It Hot! Science experiments for kids ages 1 – 3

Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center

4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward

(510) 670-7270

www.haywardrec.org

 

Sundays, Sep 8 – Dec 1

Family Friendly Matinee

3 p.m.

Dates: 9/8, 10/6, 11/3, 12/1

Made Up Theatre

4000 Bay St.  Suite B, Fremont

(510) 573-3633

www.madeuptheatre.com

 

Mondays, Sep 9 – Dec 17

Advanced Math and Science Tutoring

6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

High school/college level help in math, physics and chemistry

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

www.aclibrary.org

 

Fridays – Sundays, Sep 13 – Sep 29

The Three Musketeers $

Fri – Sat: 8 p.m. Sun: 2 p.m.

Alexandre Dumas' timeless swashbuckler. Preview Thurs. 9/12, 8 p.m.

Douglas Morrison Theatre

22311 N Third St., Hayward

(510) 881-6777

www.dmtonline.org

 

Mondays & Wednesdays, Sep 16 – Nov 4

Music for Minors II Training

9:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Learn to become a music volunteer

United Church of Christ

38255 Blacow Rd., Fremont

(510) 793-3970

(510) 733-1189

 

Mondays & Wednesdays, Sep 16 – Nov 4

Music for Minors II Training

6:45 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

Learn to become a music volunteer

Proctor Elementary

17520 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley

www.musicforminors2.org

 

Tuesdays, Sep 24 – Oct 29

Booklegger Volunteer Training

9:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Fun opportunity with a flexible schedule

Fremont Main Library

2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont

(510) 745-1421

www.aclibrary.org

 

Friday nights

Laugh Track City $

8 p.m.

Fast-paced improv comedy show

Made Up Theatre

4000 Bay St, Suite B, Fremont

(510) 573-3633

https://madeuptheatre.com/

 

Saturday nights

8 p.m.

Audience-inspired improv play

Made Up Theatre

4000 Bay St, Suite B, Fremont

(510) 573-3633

https://madeuptheatre.com/

 

 

THIS WEEK:

 

Tuesday, Sep 17

Area Agency on Aging Focus Group R

1:30 p.m.

Seniors age 55+ needed for feedback on countywide plan

Kenneth C. Aitken Center

17800 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley

(510) 881-6738

www.haywardrec.org

 

Wednesday, Sep 18

Toddler Time

10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

Hear a story, do some chores, meet farm animals

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Wednesday, Sep 18

Consumer Fraud

11 a.m. – 12 noon

Learn how to recognize and avoid scams

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

www.aclibrary.org

 

Wednesday, Sep 18

Compassion Cultivation Training R

2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Settling the mind for caregivers

City of Fremont, Bldg. B

3300 Capitol Ave., Fremont

(510) 574-2035

 

Wednesday, Sep 18

Community Office Hours R

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

One-on-one meeting with Assemblymember Kansen Chu

Milpitas Library

160 North Main St., Milpitas

(408) 262-1171

(408) 262-2501

 

Thursday, Sep 19

East Bay Stompers Band

7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Dixie, swing and standards music

Bronco Billy’s Pizza – Irvington

41200 Blacow Rd., Fremont

(510) 438-0121

(510) 914-7304

 

Thursday, Sep 19

Hayward Nonprofit Alliance

10 a.m.

Discuss elements of managing a nonprofit

St. Rose Hospital

27200 Calaroga Ave., Hayward

(510) 264-4044

www.hayward.org

 

Thursday, Sep 19

Healthy Living Festival $

8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Music, lunch, health screenings, zoo tour for ages 60+. Extensive walking required.

Oakland Zoo

9777 Golf Links Rd., Oakland

(510) 632-9525

(510) 729-0852

 

Thursday, Sep 19 – Sunday, Sep 22

Newark Days Carnival

Thurs. 6 p.m.- 10 p.m.

Fri., 5 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Sat. 12 noon – 11 p.m.

Sun. 12 noon – 10 p.m.

Rides and booths, food

Newark Community Center

35501 Cedar Blvd., Newark

(510) 742-4437

(510) 793-5683

www.newarkdays.org

 

Thursday, Sep 19

Mt. Eden Gallery Back to School Night

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Opening reception with refreshments

Work on display through 10/31

Mt. Eden High School

2300 Panama St., Hayward

(510) 723-3180

 

Thursday, Sep 19

Informational Meeting

3 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Discuss changes to California Building Code

City of Fremont Development Services Center, Niles Room

39550 Liberty St., Fremont

(510) 494-4535

cof@fremont.gov

 

Friday, Sep 20

Taize

8 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Prayer around the cross

Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose

43326 Mission Blvd., Fremont

(510) 933-6335

(510) 657-2468

 

Friday, Sep 20

Movies Under the Stars – Captain Marvel

After sunset

Bring blankets, low beach chairs and a picnic

Town Fair Plaza

39100 State St., Fremont

(510) 494-4300

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Meet Author Tyler Hayes

11 a.m.

Storytime, followed by signing of his new book “The Imaginary Corpse”

Books on B

1014 B St., Hayward

(510) 538-3943

www.booksonb.com

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Coastal Cleanup R

8 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Volunteers remove litter from the shoreline

Bring gloves and hats. Ages 15+

Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center

4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward

(510) 670-7270

(510) 544-2515

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Coastal Cleanup Day R

9 a.m. – 12 noon

Participate in trash cleanup or weeding project

SF Bay Wildlife Refuge – Don Edwards

1 Marshlands Rd., Fremont

(510) 792-0222 x361

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Regional Shoreline Cleanup

9 a.m. – 12 noon

Hosted by EBRPD

Hayward Shoreline at West Winton

3050 West Winton Ave, Hayward

(510) 670-7270

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Shoreline Cleanup

9 a.m. – 12 noon

Help beautify the Shoreline Trail

San Leandro Marina

13801 Monarch Bay Drive, San Leandro

(510) 583-0100

(510) 577-3488

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Rabbit Rendezvous

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Rabbits are great hoppers and use their long ears to sense danger

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Garden Bug Safari

12 noon – 1 p.m.

Discover the world of bugs while you explore the vegetable garden

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Old-Fashioned Fun

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Stilt walking, sack races, tug-o-war, potato-spoon racing

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Ohlone Village Site Tour

1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

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

Coyote Hills

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Sept 21

Thriving in High School R

1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Keynote speaker Lt. Eric Tang, Fremont Police Dept.

Heartfulness Meditation Center

585 Mowry Ave., Fremont

(408) 306-7661

www.eventbrite.com

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Community Summit on Homelessness R

8:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Tabletop discussions, ideas of how to address homelessness

Santa Clara County Fairgrounds

344 Tully Rd., San Jose

(775) 348-7713

(408) 299-5030

 

Saturday, Sep 21

ACT Practice Test R

10:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Prep on types of questions faced on the actual exam

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

www.aclibrary.org

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Evening of Empowerment $R

6 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Gala to support ending domestic violence

Paradise Ballroom

4100 Peralta Blvd, Fremont

(510) 909-9263

(510) 574-2252

www.eventbrite.com

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Cemetery Clean-Up and Open Day

9 a.m. – 12 noon

Bring your gloves, rakes and water

San Lorenzo Pioneer Cemetery

Corner of Usher Street & College St., San Lorenzo

(510) 581-2516

www.haywardareahistory.org

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Eden Area Village Monthly Coffee

9 a.m.

Helping seniors remain in their home and engaged in community

Hayward Area Historical Society Museum

22380 Foothill Blvd., Hayward

(510) 581-0223

www.edenareavillage.org

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Comedy Shorts Night $

7:30 p.m.

“The Pawnshop”, “One Week”, “His Wooden Wedding”, “You're Darn Tootin'”

Niles Essanay Theater

37417 Niles Blvd, Fremont

(510) 494-1411

www.nilesfilmmuseum.org

 

Saturday, Sep 21

McConaghy House Paranormal Investigation $R

7 p.m. – 1 a.m.

Search for paranormal activity with experienced investigators

McConaghy House

18701 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward

(510) 581-0223

www.haywardareahistory.org/explore-the-paranormal

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Newark Mile $R

7 a.m.

Check-in 7 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Race starts at 9 a.m.

Newark Community Center

35501 Cedar Blvd., Newark

(510) 742-4437

www.cxc41.org/newarkmile/registration.html

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Animal Tracking

10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Learn to decode animal tracks. Ages 7+

Coyote Hills

8000 Patterson Ranch Rd., Fremont

(510) 544-3220

www.ebparks.org

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Coastal Cleanup Day R

9 a.m. – 12 noon

Beatify the trail, pick up litter. Next to KFC

Castro Valley Creek

3625 Castro Valley Blvd., Castro Valley

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/castro-valley-creek-coastal-cleanup-day-registration-65810957345

 

Saturday, Sep 21

Autumn Leaves Tea $R

12 noon

Sponsor Mission Peak Heritage Foundation

Shinn House

1251 Peralta Blvd., Fremont

(510) 793-9352

(510) 247-3279

 

Sunday, Sep 22

Apple Cider Pressing

11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Squeeze juice for tasty drinks

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Sep 22

Farm Chores for Kids

10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Crack corn, feed animals, help with morning chores

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Sep 22

Cooking in Country Kitchen

11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Sample food cooked on a wood-burning stove

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Sep 22

Volunteer Day: Gathering Tule

10 a.m. – Noon & 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Help gather tule for cultural programs. Ages 12+

Coyote Hills

8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont

(510) 544-3220

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Sep 22

Corn Mosaics

1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Make a craft using harvested Indian corn

Ardenwood Historic Farm

34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont

(510) 544-2797

www.ebparks.org

 

Sunday, Sep 22

Groovy Judy

3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Shares her love of music

Carlton Plaza of Fremont

3800 Walnut Ave., Fremont

(510) 505-0555

 

Sunday, Sep 22

Mindful Living and Holistic Healing Arts

2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Gain proper life balance and achieve optimal health

Castro Valley Library

3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley

(510) 667-7900

www.aclibrary.org

 

Sunday, Sep 22

Odd Fellows Summer Concert

1 p.m.- 5 p.m.

Fault Line Blues Band and Mt. Eden High School Choir

Memorial Park

24176 Mission Blvd., Hayward

http://www.ci.hayward.ca.us

www.haywardlodge.org

 

Sunday, Sep 22

Niles Canyon Stroll and Roll

7 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Walk or bike only. Canyon closed to autos.

Vallejo Mill Park

598 Orangewood Dr., Fremont

www.84strollroll.com

 

Sunday, Sep 22

Birding by Bike $

9 a.m. – 12 noon

Come explore the shoreline by bike

Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center

4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward

(510) 670-7270

www.haywardrec.org/hayshore.html

 

Sunday, Sep 22

Hayward Airport Open House

10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Aircraft, classic cars, food trucks, DJ, booths

Hayward Executive Airport

20301 Skywest Dr., Hayward

(510) 259-1062

(510) 293-8678

 

Monday, Sep 23

Outdoor Discoveries: Raptors R

10:30 a.m. – 12 noon

Preschool and home school nature series. Ages 4-8

Sunol Regional Wilderness

1895 Geary Rd., Sunol

(510) 544-3249

www.ebparks.org

 

Monday, Sep 23

Eden Garden Club Meeting

9:30 a.m.

Speaker Pete Veilleux talks about native plants

Hayward-Castro Valley Moose Lodge

20835 Rutledge Rd., Castro Valley

(510) 723-6936

(510) 397-1268

 

Monday, Sep 23 – Friday, Sep 27

Senior Fitness Week

During business hours

Seniors 55+ can try a class for free

Mark Green Sports Complex

31224 Union City Blvd., Union City

(510) 675-5808

 

Tuesday, Sep 24

Lawyer in the Library R

6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Lawyer consult on family, estate, criminal and immigration law

Union City Branch Library

34007 Alvarado Niles Rd., Union City

(510) 745-1464

www.aclibrary.org

 

Tuesday, Sep 24

Weekday Bird Walk

7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Bring water, binoculars, sunscreen. Meet at Isherwood Staging Area. 12+

Quarry Lakes

2250 Isherwood Wy., Fremont

(510) 795-4895

www.ebparks.org

 

Tuesday, Sep 24

Toastmasters Open House & Potluck

6:45 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.

Enjoy public speaking and snacks

Baywood Court

21966 Dolores St., Castro Valley

http://961.toastmastersclubs.org

 

Wednesday, Sep 25

Wednesday Walk

9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Traverse to Lake Chabot on 4-mile trek

Bort Meadow Staging Area

Anthony Chabot Campground and Park

9999 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley

(510) 690-6677

www.ebparks.org

 

Wednesday, Sep 25

Pooch Pool Party $

5:15 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Dogs run, play and swim in pool

San Leandro Family Aquatic Center

14900 Zelma St., San Leandro

(510) 577-7966

www.sanleandro.org

 

Thursday, Sep 26

San Lorenzo Summer Series

5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Local food and shopping vendors

Hesperian Blvd. & Paseo Grande

16010 Hesperian Blvd., San Lorenzo

(510) 537-5300

info@castrovalleychamber.com

 

Thursday, Sep 26

Heart and Soul Art Reception $

5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Celebrating talents of individuals with disabilities from Serra Center

Dominican Sisters of Mission San Jose

43326 Mission Blvd., Fremont

(510) 933-6335

lmcgarry@serracenter.org

 

Saturday, Sep 28

Autumn Celebration $R

5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

House tours, dinner, entertainment, silent auction

George Mark Children's House

2121 George Mark Ln., San Leandro

(510) 346-1274

www.georgemark.org

 

Saturday, Sep 28

HERS Breast Cancer Fundraiser $

7 a.m.

5K walk, 5K/10K run

Quarry Lakes

2250 Isherwood Way, Fremont

(510) 795-4895

hersbreastcancerfoundation.org/

 

 

Frances Boyce: living strong at 109

Submitted by Sarah Herron

 

In 1910, Frances Boyce was born under two comets: Daylight Comet and Halley's Comet. Perhaps this favorable omen blessed her with her remarkably long and healthy life. In 2010, Boyce reached the rare human achievement of a 100th birthday. Since then she has been adding to her accomplishment. On September 17, 2019, she will turn 109 years old.

 

Boyce grew up on a small farm in Indiana, one of eight siblings. She remembers helping with chores and walking over a mile to school—although her dad would pick up all the kids with a single-seater horse and buggy when it rained. After her marriage, Boyce moved to Washington and then to Southern California where she worked as a legal secretary until she retired at age 65.

 

In 2013, Boyce moved out of her previous home in Fremont’s Besaro Mobile Home Community; she now lives with her granddaughter and great-granddaughter. Although her memory can fail at times, she still enjoys excellent physical health overall. Her secret to a long life is staying active and eating healthy.

 

 

Realty firm invests in management training program

Submitted by Weichert Real Estate Affiliates

 

Officials from Rainbow Properties, a real estate and funding agency in Newark, announced on September 12 that Adam Modzeleski has completed a management academy training program from Weichert Real Estate Affiliates, Inc.

 

The intense five-day academy is a top-level program for real estate management training and focuses on building world-class real estate offices. “Our management academy was created to give Weichert franchisees a solid foundation and the confidence to manage and grow their businesses as never before,” said Bill Scavone, president and chief operating officer of Weichert Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. “The various management systems our training covers is quite an eye-opener, even for the experienced broker manager. Adopting these systems help save time, energy, money and stress.”

 

The concentrated program emphasizes systems installation, business planning, recruiting, training and career development, and includes a tour of the corporate campus in Morris Plains, New Jersey, where franchise principals actually see Weichert divisions at work. Graduates of the Weichert Management Academy are better equipped to offer home buyers and sellers in their communities the best services in real estate.

 

Rainbow Properties is an independently owned and operated Weichert affiliated office. For more information contact Adam Modzeleski at (510) 791-7923 or email moe4loans@gmail.com.

 

 

CleanStart Mobile Hygiene Unit Program

Submitted by Anna Guiles

 

On Tuesday, September 17, City of Fremont, City of Newark, Alameda County, and several community partners will launch the CleanStart Mobile Hygiene Program, which will provide much-needed shower and laundry services to the community’s homeless neighbors.

 

The CleanStart Mobile Hygiene unit is a 50-foot truck and trailer, fitted with two full bathrooms with showers, including one that is ADA accessible, and three washer/dryer units. The CleanStart unit will provide services in pre-designated areas of the community in coordination with existing food, clothing, and service programs. Each service site the unit is transported to will be open for three to four hours and provide 10-15 minutes of shower time per client, as well as laundry services.

 

These basic services will help users keep themselves and their clothing clean, a major obstacle for those looking to get and keep a job and participate in society. The cost of the CleanStart unit, funded through Alameda County, was $125,000.

 

Suzanne Shenfil, director of human services, City of Fremont, and Lily Mei, Fremont mayor, will be present at the event. To RSVP for the Clean Start Program Launch, visit www.Fremont.gov/CleanStartRSVP.

 

Clean Start Program Launch

Tuesday, Sept 17

6 p.m.

City Hall Back Parking Lot

3300 Capitol Ave, Fremont

www.Fremont.gov/CleanStartRSVP

RSVP recommended

 

 

City Hall rear parking lot as Fremont’s temporary housing

Submitted by City of Fremont

 

The Fremont City Council held a special city council meeting on September 10 to consider the development of the city’s temporary housing navigation center at either a site in the Decoto neighborhood or in the rear parking lot of Fremont’s city hall. The special city council meeting was well attended and approximately 200 community members spoke during the public meeting, providing input to city council on the development of a navigation center and the two proposed finalist sites. After receiving the report from city staff and public comment, the council unanimously approved the rear parking lot of the Fremont City Hall for the location of the temporary center.

 

Councilmembers selected the City Hall site based on its proximity to services, food access, and transportation. A large portion of the parking lot to the rear of City Hall will be temporarily repurposed and developed to accommodate the navigation center. The center will accommodate 45 unsheltered community members; adult participants can stay up to six months while they are supported and focus on finding stable, permanent housing.

 

In addition to approving City Hall as the development site, city council appropriated $1.1 million for the center’s development and operation and authorized the city manager to execute a multi-year services and lease agreement with Bay Area Community Services (BACS) as the navigation center’s operator. BACS, who also operates the Berkeley navigation center (STAIR Center), and two navigation centers in Oakland, will provide 24/7 staffing and supportive services to the residents of the program.

 

City staff plan to finalize and then submit the site plan drawings to the Building Department and outside utility agencies for review. In parallel, staff will be working with BACS on a services and lease agreement. Construction will take approximately eight to 10 months, and projected occupancy of the center is anticipated for mid-2020.

 

Community outreach will continue throughout the development of the center including opportunities for the public to donate, volunteer, and contribute to the success of Fremont’s first housing navigation center. For more information, visit www.Fremont.gov/NavigationCenter.

 

 

Newark Police Log

Submitted by Newark PD

 

Tuesday, August 20

• At 11:20 a.m. Officer Wang investigated a reported theft from a vehicle on the 3000 block of Cedar Boulevard. Around 11 a.m. an unknown person entered the victim’s vehicle, which was unlocked, and stole money. The victim had just returned from his restaurant with $21,000 he had left in the vehicle’s center console.

 

Saturday, August 24

• At 6:14 a.m. Officer Swadener was dispatched to the area of Morning Glory Court and Quince Place on a report of a possible mail theft. A citizen reported seeing a man going through mailboxes and followed him into Fremont along eastbound Mowry Avenue. Swadener located the 25-year-old Fremont man and made an arrest and issued a citation on suspicion of possessing drug paraphernalia and methamphetamine.

 

• At 7:24 a.m. Officer Damewood contacted a 26-year old Newark man in the area of Ash Street and Wells Avenue. After a check, the man was arrested on four misdemeanor warrants and booked into jail in Fremont.

 

Monday, August 26

• At 6:50 a.m. officers were dispatched to the area of Abington Court to investigate a report of a family disturbance. A 20-year Newark woman was contacted and eventually arrested on suspicion of battery, vandalism, violating a court order and violating probation. She was booked into Santa Rita Jail.

 

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

• During a 7:56 a.m. security check in the area of Cedar Court, Officer Fredstrom contacted a 36-year-old male transient. A records check showed the man had four outstanding arrest warrants held by Newark Police Department for attempted battery, possession of drug paraphernalia, being too inebriated to care for himself or others, possession of a stun gun, driving with a suspended license, operating a vehicle that is not equipped with functioning ignition interlock device, and failure to stop at an intersection. The man was arrested and taken to jail in Fremont.

 

Wednesday, August 28

• At 8:38 p.m. Officer Torres investigated a grab and run retail theft at the 2000 block of NewPark Mall The loss was legging and sports bras. Store security personnel asked the suspects to refrain from stealing; however, they grabbed an armload of merchandise and ran.

 

Thursday, August 29

• At 8:34 p.m. Officer Herrera saw a vehicle being driven recklessly near the 5000 block of Jarvis Avenue. A traffic stop was made, but the driver fled on foot. Herrera chased the male driver on foot to the 35000 block of Newark Boulevard and took him into custody. A record check showed the driver was on probation for reckless driving and had two previous DUIs and a suspended license for DUI. The 20-year-old Oakland man was arrested on suspicion of DUI and for resisting, delaying, obstructing a police officer and violating probation. He was booked into jail in Fremont.

 

Friday, August 30, 2019

• At 12:05 a.m. officers responded to a report of a large motor home hitting vehicles on Sunrose Avenue. Officer Hernandez located the RV and determined the driver was DUI. A 34-year old Newark man was arrested on suspicion of DUI and booked into jail in Fremont.

 

 

Newark City Council

September 12, 2019

 

Presentations and Proclamations:

• Proclaim September as Pain Awareness Month. California Ambassador Michele Rice of US Pain Foundation accepted the proclamation.
• Commend First Presbyterian Church of Newark on their 125th anniversary. Pastor Garrett Yamada accepted the proclamation.
• Proclaim September 19-22 as Newark Days. Shirley Sisk and the Newark Days Committee accepted the proclamation and presented councilmembers with Superhero capes and masks in recognition of this year’s theme: Heroes are Super!

 

Public Hearings:

• Consider text amendments to Newark Municipal Code Zoning Ordinance affecting land uses, pedestrian walkways, landscaping, design standards, public notice requirements and other development standards.

 

Consent Calendar:

• Approve administrative actions during August recess.
• Authorize acceptance of California Office of Traffic Safety traffic enforcement program grant.
• Authorize Side Letter Agreement with Newark Police Management Association to reinstate the $100 per month health allowance.
• Approve increase of probationary period of Public Safety Dispatcher classification.
• Authorize a no-fee encroachment permit to Newark Days Celebration, Inc. for Newark Days Parade and Newark Mile Race and waive fees except those required for building attendant and janitorial services.
• Authorize Contractual Services Agreement with Consolidated Engineering Laboratories, Inc. for materials testing and special inspection services for the new Civic Center.
• Authorize a Contractual Services Agreement with Mission Critical Partners, LLC for Public Safety Answering Point Technology Needs Assessment for new Civic Center.
• Adopt Newark Green Stormwater Infrastructure Plan.

 

City Council Matters:

• Measure GG Transaction and Use Tax Oversight Committee annual report. Jim Lola of the committee reported that use of funds is consistent with the measure’s purpose and restrictions.
• Comment regarding parking during construction of new civic center.
• Skatepark opening successful; Sportsfield Park turf and dog park under construction.
• Comment about naming of Washington Hospital clinic in Newark as Pat Danielson Clinic.
• New hotels – Springhill and Staybridge – in Newark.

 

Oral Communications;

• Diane Shaw of AC Transit Board of Directors spoke about redesigning service, an online survey and the “real time” system for the public to know arrival times at bus stops.
• Representative of Silicon Valley Leadership Group invited the public and Newark councilmembers and officials to participate in Turkey Trot including the Mayor’s Cup Challenge on November 28, 2019. Information available at: www.svturkeytrot.com.

 

Mayor Alan Nagy                   Aye

Vice Mayor Sucy Collazo       Aye

Luis Freitas                             Aye

Michael Hannon                     Aye

Mike Bucci                             Aye

 

 

Fremont News Briefs

Submitted by Cheryl Golden

 

New Affordable Housing

On September 6, Fremont celebrated another milestone for affordable housing, the groundbreaking of Warm Springs Village Apartments and “final pour” for the foundation. Built in partnership with Eden Housing and located directly across from the Warm Springs/South Fremont BART Station, this development will provide 132 affordable rental apartment homes for families in Fremont.

 

The complex, at 45108 Tom Blalock Street, will consist of two buildings and include 6,000 square feet of commercial space, a community room with a kitchen, a community courtyard, computer labs, bike storage, laundry facilities, and offices for management and resident services. Green features will include solar systems, drought resistant landscaping, and electric vehicle charging stations. A pedestrian-friendly park is also planned between the two buildings.

 

The units at Warm Springs Village Apartments will be for households earning between 30 percent and 60 percent of the Alameda County area median income. To view the latest figures, visit www.Fremont.gov/AreaMedianIncome. To receive information when the units become available, sign up for the City’s Affordable Housing Interest List at www.Fremont.gov/AffordableHousingInterest.

 

Warm Springs Village Apartments is estimated to be complete in winter 2020 and will be part of Metro Crossing, a new master-planned development in the Warm Springs Innovation District that will include 1,001 total residences and nearly two acres of parkland.

 

Input for Climate Action Plan Update

Since the adoption of the City of Fremont’s first Climate Action Plan in 2012, the city has implemented several municipal and public-facing projects, programs, and policies that have resulted in significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and earned Fremont regional recognition as a sustainability leader. Fremont is now working to update its Climate Action Plan (CAP) to align with the new 2045 carbon neutrality goal recently established by the Fremont City Council in February 2019.

 

As part of the CAP update process, the city is seeking the community’s help in identifying actions that will make Fremont a cleaner and healthier place for everyone. Strategies for achieving these goals can include transitioning to renewable and fossil-free energy in buildings and vehicles, enhancing sustainable transit and travel options, reducing waste and pollution, incorporating green building design, restoring natural habitats, drawing down carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through plants and trees, and increasing our resilience to climate change.

 

To gain feedback, the city is inviting the community to complete the CAP Update Survey. By taking the survey, the community can play an active role in designing a healthy and sustainable future for Fremont. Read more information and take the survey at https://stories.opengov.com/fremontca/published/j8uKMiLb0.

 

Watch Movies Under the Stars

Join the city’s Recreation Services Division on Friday, September 20, for the final Summer Movie Under the Stars. Captain Marvel will be shown after sunset in front of Town Fair Plaza in Downtown Fremont on Capitol Avenue and State Street. The movie is PG-13 and is free to attend. Grab some blankets, low beach chairs, and a picnic dinner and enjoy a great flick with family and friends. For more details, visit www.Fremont.gov/MovieNight.

‘Coach Mike’ to be honored

Submitted by Mike Heightchew

 

A special ceremony for a special beloved coach will be held September 21 at 1:30 p.m. Pete Michaletos, affectionately known as “Coach Mike”, was a fixture on the football field of John F. Kennedy High School in Fremont for 46 years. The Titans’ mentor was one of the most popular and respected coaches in the East Bay; in the vanguard of the vaunted “West Coast Offense” popularized in professional football by Bill Walsh and Mike Holmgren among others. This, at the time, unorthodox style led the Titans to North Coast Section playoffs eight times and two Mission Valley Athletic League championships despite Kennedy’s modest enrollment compared to competing schools.

 

Following retirement, Michaletos did not stray far from the football field, providing support for coaching staffs at Modesto Christian and Milpitas High Schools. In 2011, Coach Mike was inducted into the California Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Even with his passing, February 11, 2017, Coach Mike will be observing action at Tak Fudenna Stadium in Fremont as his likeness will be installed to remind and commemorate his contributions to football and the young athletes he mentored throughout his life.

 

Michaletos Dedication Ceremony

Saturday, Sep 21

1:30 p.m.

Tak Fudenna Stadium

38442 Fremont Blvd, Fremont

 

 

One in a Nation

By Johnna M. Laird

 

Kennedy High School junior Amanda Powell spent her summer in healthcare, dividing time between volunteering at Washington Hospital and interning at Kaiser Permanente. Her internship gave her the opportunity to shadow doctors. On morning, she glanced down at her phone and blurted out, “Oh snap! I won a scholarship.”

 

“Cool,” the ENT doctor responded, just as they stepped into a room to see a patient with fluid behind the ears.

 

The $1,000 scholarship from Dignity Health Global Education, awarded to a student wishing to pursue a career or education in the healthcare industry, singled Powell out as the only winner in the nationwide competition. The competition called for a posting of accomplishments or healthcare experiences on Goodwall, a global networking platform with two million users targeting Gen Z and Millennials.

 

Powell, whose love of science extends back as long as she can remember, has known since second grade that her future lies in medicine. When Dr. Sabina Hill, a Kaiser physician, gave a presentation in her classroom at Mattos Elementary on how the human body works and the role of being a doctor, Powell recalls, “It blew my mind. Everything was interesting, new and exciting.”  Later Hill returned to school with a kidney and later with a simulated brain made of Jello. “That’s when I decided I wanted to purse a medical career,” Powell says.

 

The scholarship is Powell’s first, but she is applying for more. She has had discussions with Stanford University as a possible college choice. In the meantime, she is packing her high school schedule with advanced classes, especially science and math. She’s also making time to serve as a Link Leader, helping freshmen adjust to high school.

 

“We meet up with our freshman and lead them in games that promote team bonding,” says Powell, who adds that Link Leaders teach “Link Lessons” that communicate morals and values. “If we play Team Juggling, for example, we relate the balls to all the different responsibilities and priorities students have to juggle in high school. We then offer positive and healthy ways to succeed,” Powell explains.

 

Powell’s volunteering assignments at Washington Hospital ended in August, but she hopes to return in October volunteering in a different capacity to broaden her experience. At Washington, she answered phones and contacted area residents to alert them to free services. The experience gave her an intro into the importance of customer service. “There was a diverse set of personalities I encountered,” Powell said, “and I was forced to accept that some people did not want to be helped. I could be super polite and helpful, do everything right, and realize they won’t let me help. I had to roll with it and hope for their happiness.”

 

At Kaiser, Powell received the opportunity to shadow multiple doctors in different departments, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., throughout the summer. “I was stunned by the number of brilliant doctors at Kaiser,” she says. “All of them are extremely caring and want what’s best for the patient.” The internship allowed her to experience a variety of medical practices with different personalities and approaches to problems, yet all the doctors worked toward the same goal: patient health. “I love seeing how medicine is approached. It’s all about looking after people, patient care, and helping however you can.”

 

The internship solidified her desire to work in medicine. “With this hands-on experience I’m realizing it’s worth the investment of time, energy, and money to help people while also experiencing job satisfaction.”

 

Medicine definitely has its challenges, particularly for young people interested in gaining volunteer experience. “Volunteering in healthcare is very difficult,” she says. “There are a lot of rules and regulations, which as a patient I appreciate, but it makes it difficult for high school students. There are a lot of age restrictions and preference for older students, college students. Because of the age restrictions, I've only started volunteering this year since I am 16.”

 

Dignity Health Global Education Marketing Director Felicity Dale says, “Educating and empowering the future generation of healthcare professionals is the purpose behind our partnership with Goodwall, and our scholarships are one critical component of this. “The entries we received were inspiring: they were passionate, creative, and thought provoking,” Dale continued. “Amanda’s entry highlights the importance of education in her decision to work in the medical field in the future.”

 

The community aspect is what originally drew Powell to the Goodwall app in the first place, and the opportunity to further break down barriers between her and an education in healthcare drove her to apply. “When you scroll through the Goodwall feeds, it’s nothing but positivity and community-based interactions,” Amanda said. “And the award money from DHGE is a blessing because it takes some of the financial pressure off of pursuing a career in medicine, which is my dream.”

 

Powell is the daughter of Jason and Alanna Powell. Alanna Powell is the founder and president of the local non-profit, Boldly Me, which works to help people move through emotional trauma that can develop as a result of differences ranging from birth conditions, to illness, to medical treatments.

 

Learn more about Goodwall on their website at https://dhge.org/partners/goodwall/.

 

 

Saving seeds for another day

Article and photos by Daniel O'Donnell

 

Halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole where very few plants grow, is the world's largest seed bank. Svalbard Global Seed Vault, which is on a small Norwegian island Spitsbergen, has the capacity to store 4.2 million different seed crop varieties in specialized packs containing 500 seeds each. It is operated by global Crop Diversity Trust and is the world's insurance policy in case of a disaster that causes a mass extinction of crops. The vault lies 100 meters deep inside a rocky mountain where seeds from almost every country on earth are stored in climate controlled rooms. Fortunately for home gardeners, saving seeds is not as big an undertaking.

 

There are plenty of reasons why gardeners might want to save their own seeds. Large seed companies focus on selling seeds from profitable hybrids and seeds that survive across the country. Seed saving gives a person the opportunity to grow fruits and vegetable varieties that thrive locally and more options for growing plants for specific traits like taste, color, and texture. Seed saving makes it easier to guarantee that the seeds will produce plants identical to their parent because any rogue varieties can be identified, and their seeds not collected—something most giant corporations do not do. Collecting and saving seeds can also save money.

 

Most of the information in books and online about seed saving is referring to ones from desired fruits or vegetables. However, sometimes a person might want to save seeds from a wild or landscaped plant. The same guidelines apply to all plants before saving their seeds. The mother plant must produce viable seeds and those must have had ample time to mature. Most regional, county, state, and national parks do not allow seed collecting. Seeds from native plants need to have been collected from other places such as home or commercial gardens.

 

Seeds can be collected from vegetables and fruits that were purchased or home grown. Purchased produce used for collecting should be organic. Conventional growers buy seeds from large corporations that have often genetically modified the seed to be sterile. This ensures that the growers will have to purchase seeds yearly from the company. Organic fruits and vegetable do not have this “terminator” trait. Buying organic fruits and vegetables for seed saving from the farmers market is a good way to find seeds that grow well in the local area. However, whether from the store or farmers market, certain produce such as eggplants, cucumbers, beans, and peas do not have mature seeds that can be saved.

 

Seeds from home-grown fruits and vegetables should be collected from open-pollinated plant or non-hybrid varieties that produce seeds that are true generation after generation. Pollination is the factor if the plant grown from the seed is going to produce a plant identical to the mother plant. Some plants such as tomatoes, bell peppers, beans, eggplant, and lettuce are self-pollinating and have a very low chance of producing seeds that are not true to the mother plant. Plants pollinated by the wind like corn and spinach, and plants such as zucchini and cantaloupe that use bees and other insects have a much higher probability of being cross-pollinated. Using a small paint brush to hand pollinate and the isolating the flower with a breathable bag can thwart cross-pollination and ensure getting seeds that are true.

 

There are general times to collect seeds depending on where they are found. Seeds in flower heads can be collected when the flower has dried up. Seeds in pods can be harvested when the pods appear moisture-less. Fruit grown on vines should be left on and will have viable seeds about the time the it begins to rot. Many other fruits (or fruits generally thought of as vegetables) can have their seeds collected when they are overripe to the point of being non-edible.

 

All collected seeds should be placed in envelopes, small paper bags, or glass containers. They should be completely dry and free of any soil. “Wet” seeds such as those found in tomatoes and watermelons will need to be washed, lightly scrubbed and then allowed to dry. Seeds should be labeled with the plant name, variety, and date. The date is important because seeds from different plants have varying shelf lives. Onion and leek for example, are only viable for a year, whereas radishes and artichokes are good for five years. The record for the longest seed dormancy is from a lotus seed that was sprouted after 1300 years. Containers or envelopes should be stored in a cool dark place or in the refrigerator as long as they stay 100 percent dry.

 

There are 13,000 years of agricultural history preserved in the Svalbard Seed Vault so future generations can enjoy the world's crop diversity. It just takes one year of seed saving at home for this generation to appreciate what last year’s harvest had to give.

 

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

 

 

San Francisco's iconic cable cars to shut down for repairs

AP Wire Service

 

SAN FRANCISCO (AP), Sep 11 – San Francisco's iconic cable cars will stop running for 10 days starting Friday while they undergo the final repairs in a three-year restoration project of the gearboxes that propel the world-famous system up the city's notoriously steep hills.

 

Shuttle buses will run along the three cable car routes where historic cars typically travel at a steady 9.5 miles (15 kilometers) per hour, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency said Wednesday.

 

The agency says it needs to get the manually operated cable cars off the streets to rehabilitate the gearboxes that power the system that started in the 1890s.

 

The gearboxes spin the 30-foot (9-meter) tall wheels that pull the 12 miles (19 kilometers) of steel cables under San Francisco to lift the city's 40 cable cars up steep hills.

 

The shutdown is sure to disappoint some of the tourists visiting the city next week. Long lines typically snake around several sites where riders can hope on, despite each car's capacity of 60 people. The city says 7.5 million passengers ride the cable cars each year.

 

The work is part of a $6 million upgrade project that started in 2017 to repair the four heavy equipment gearboxes that have been in service since 1984. The fourth gearbox controls the Hyde Line, the master cable that controls all cable cars going in and out of the cable car barn. Without it operating, cable cars can't enter or return from service.

 

San Francisco's cable cars were named a National Historic Landmark in 1964 by the U.S. Interior Department's National Park Service. The cost is $6 for each ride or $14 for an all-day pass. Seniors and the disabled pay $3.

 

 

San Francisco offers $2.5B for PG&E's power grid in the city

By Daisy Nguyen

Associated Press

 

SAN FRANCISCO (AP), Sep 09 – With Pacific Gas & Electric in bankruptcy as it faces billions of dollars in claims over wildfires started by its equipment, San Francisco is offering to buy pieces of the utility's assets for $2.5 billion so the city can run parts of the power system on its own.

 

Mayor London Breed and City Attorney Dennis Herrera said in a statement that the offer was “competitive, fair and equitable” and would lead to financial stability for the beleaguered investor-owned utility.

 

“We look forward to positive, collaborative discussions with PG&E on this critical issue,” the statement issued Sunday said. “Throughout this process we will protect the best interests of our city as we strive toward the independent energy future that San Francisco deserves.”

 

The offer was presented before PG&E submitted its plan Monday for reorganizing its finances to get out of bankruptcy.

 

PG&E said in a statement that it doesn't believe the sale would be “in the best interests of our customers and stakeholders.” About 452,000 of the utility's 5.4 million electric customers are in San Francisco.

 

San Francisco, where PG&E was founded more than a century ago, began examining options for taking over pieces of the utility after it filed for bankruptcy protection in January. The city isn't looking to buy any part of PG&E's gas system.

 

A May report by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission said public ownership of the electric grid could help the city become carbon neutral by 2030 and stabilize electricity rates.

 

The city already has its own power system but relies on PG&E to deliver electricity to many customers.

 

Money for the purchase would come from a bond that voters agreed last year the city could use. State and federal regulators would need to sign off on any deal.

 

Cities previously could use eminent domain to take ownership of assets at fair market value. But under a new law passed by state lawmakers in July, the California Public Utilities Commission will get to consider other costs in deciding any local government's purchase of utility assets.

 

Breed, along with San Jose Mayor Sam Liccardo and Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf, told lawmakers that expanding regulators' oversight would infringe on cities' authority to provide electric service in the future.

 

A provision in the legislation also requires new owners to protect PG&E workers' jobs for three years. San Francisco said it would recruit PG&E employees to operate the proposed municipal system and honor their union contracts.

 

PG&E filed for bankruptcy because it said it could not afford billions in damages from recent deadly wildfires caused by downed power lines and other company equipment, including a November fire that killed 86 people and largely destroyed the town of Paradise.

 

The new law creates a fund of up to $21 billion to help PG&E and the state's other major utilities – Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric – pay out future claims as climate change makes wildfires across the U.S. West more frequent and more destructive.

 

To use the fund, companies would have to meet new safety standards to be set by state regulators and take steps such as tying executive compensation to safety.

 

PG&E also must emerge from its bankruptcy proceedings and settle its pending lawsuits from homeowners, insurance companies and local governments by June 30 of next year to tap into the fund.

 

 

Police offer “Stranger Danger” safety tips

Submitted by Hayward PD

 

With school back in session, police in Hayward are reminding parents and caregivers to be aware of student safety and to talk to kids about “Stranger Danger.”

 

What is a stranger? Most people visualize a stranger as a scary looking person. The truth is a stranger is anyone you don’t know. Strangers should be treated with caution. You may see “strangers” while going to and from places, at the park, in your neighborhood or at any public place you might go.

 

Remember your safety is a priority and there are rules you should follow when you are around strangers. Here are some good guidelines to start with:

 

• Be aware of who is around you and what they are doing
• Adults who need help shouldn’t be asking kids, so let them find another adult. This includes adults with pets
• Always have someone with you, and don’t go places alone

 

The following are important safety tips to follow if approached by a stranger:

 

• Don’t talk to strangers and never give your name or address
• Don’t take anything, like candy or a toy from a stranger
• No matter what they say, don’t go anywhere with someone you don’t know
• Stay more than an arm’s reach from strangers
• If you are approached by a stranger, seek help immediately
• Trust your instincts, if you feel uncomfortable, are being followed or something is not right, seek help immediately
• Review contact telephone numbers and home safety practices
• If you are grabbed by a stranger: Yell, Run and Tell! (Scream, kick and get attention)
• When seeking help, always go to a trusted adult — a parent, police officer, teacher, coach, or older sibling

 

Report any suspicious activity immediately by calling 911 or Hayward Police Department’s Non-Emergency Dispatch Number at (510) 293-7000. Don’t wait to report it until later in the day or the next school day. It’s extremely important for students to call the police at the time of the incident so we can respond as soon as possible to investigate.

 

 

Niles Canyon ‘Stroll and Roll’

Submitted by Alameda County Board of Supervisors

 

Runners, hikers and bicyclists are gearing up for the third “Niles Canyon Stroll and Roll” on Sunday, September 22. A scenic stretch of Niles Canyon Road between Fremont and Sunol will be closed to automobiles to give outdoor lovers exclusive access to the Canyon. The event is being held for the third time in four years to raise awareness about a proposed new trail through the Canyon that would expand public access to its forested flanks, historic landmarks and sweeping vistas of Alameda Creek. Organizers of this year’s Stroll and Roll say they are preparing for as many as 10,000 to participate.

 

To make way for Stroll and Roll, automobiles will be barred from a stretch of Niles Canyon Road between Mission Boulevard in Fremont and Main Street in Sunol from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. During the first hour –7 a.m. to 8 a.m. – the road will be open to bicyclists only to give them a chance to traverse the winding thoroughfare unimpeded. At 7:45 a.m. there will be an official event kickoff on the Niles side, where Alameda County Supervisors Scott Haggarty and Richard Valle will share a few words.

 

Participants will also have the chance to discuss proposals for the Niles Canyon trail with staff from Alameda County and the East Bay Regional Park District. A project study completed in 2017 suggested that a 10-foot-wide paved pathway running mostly along the north side of Niles Canyon Road would be the preferred way to enhance access to the Canyon for pedestrians, bicyclists and possibly equestrians. Currently there are safety concerns for those sharing the road with automobiles, as the narrow roadway includes no shoulder in some stretches. Creating more access to the canyon would also provide a vital link between trail networks in the Tri-Valley and Alameda County’s bay-front corridor.

 

There will be free parking for participants. On the Sunol side, parking will be provided in the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission lot at 11600 Pleasanton Sunol Road. On the Fremont side, parking will be provided at the Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area, 2100 Isherwood Way, Fremont. Participants are encouraged to use public transportation to get to the event. Free shuttle service will be available at Quarry Lakes and the Fremont BART station to transport participants to and from the event.

 

Go to www.84strollroll.com to learn more about the Niles Canyon Multi-Use Trail proposal and the September 22 roadway closure.

 

Niles Canyon stroll and roll

Sunday, Sept 22

7 a.m. – 2 p.m.

 

San Francisco Public Utilities Commission lot

11600 Pleasanton Sunol Rd., Sunol

 

Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area

2100 Isherwood Way, Fremont

 

www.84strollroll.com

Supervisor Scottt Haggarty: (510) 272-6691

Supervisor Richard Valle: (510) 272-6692

 

 

Sizzle with the symphony

Submitted by Fremont Symphony

 

With school back in session and busy fall activities starting up, many people are looking for a quick, but nutritious meal that they can get in a hurry. With that in mind, the Fremont Symphony Guild is sponsoring a “Sizzling Dining for a Sizzling Symphony” fundraiser on Tuesday, September 24.

 

During business hours, the Sizzler restaurant on Walnut Avenue near Paseo Padre Parkway will donate 20% of their dine-in our takeout sales to the Fremont Symphony. These funds will also help support children’s events sponsored by the symphony.

 

To participate, diners must visit the Fremont Symphony Guild webpage at www.fremontsymphony.org/the-guild and download and print the “Sizzling Dining for a Sizzling Symphony” flier on the homepage. To ensure the 20% of the sale is credited to the symphony, diners should present the flier when they place their order at the restaurant.

 

Symphony fundraiser

Tuesday, Sept. 24

10:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Sizzler

3101 Walnut Ave., Fremont

(510) 744-4166

www.thefremontsymphony.org/the-guild

 

 

Takes from Silicon Valley East

Smart Manufacturing, Brilliant Ideas

Tina Kapoor, Economic Development Manager

 

Fremont’s Economic Development Office takes pride in undertaking our work with a collaborative, innovative, and employer-driven approach. Our team plays a key role in supporting employers in dealing with critical workforce development challenges. These challenges are characterized by the following:

 

1. Modern manufacturing processes that are being revolutionized by technology through innovations in 3D printing, robotics and IoT. This is largely due to our region’s fertile innovation ecosystem that is leading to manufacturing and technology partnerships at an unprecedented rate.
2. As production complexity increases, the need for new skill sets emerges. Employers, particularly in advanced industries, are in need of workers with these necessary skills to operate and program complex machinery, and oversee new processes. This has resulted in a wider skills gap in today’s workforce.

 

These challenges are front and center in the Bay Area, and especially prominent in Fremont where the city is home to over 900 innovative companies in advanced industries, particularly manufacturing.

 

This rapidly evolving landscape can be an important source of economic competitiveness and high quality employment. But growing the talent base for the advanced manufacturing employers needs special attention.

 

Good news is that several workforce development programs are emerging to address the talent conundrum. The trick is to ensure that these programs can successfully train workers and job seekers for jobs in today’s advanced industries.

 

So how do we do that? Two words: employer engagement.

 

This single most important strategy can help align programs with employer needs, and match individuals with high-growth, high-wage jobs.

 

For our team, this strategy is the North Star that directs our efforts related to workforce development. We collaborate with like-minded partners, and together we are effectively engaging employers, and building deeper partnerships.

 

The city’s ability to build these partnerships is enhanced by playing a leadership role on the Alameda County Workforce Development Board (WDB). The WDB provides job seeker and business services including access to training resources, tax credits, and direct recruitment support. Training programs such as On-the-Job-Training and Employment Training Panel provide funding to employers to assist in upgrading the skills of their workers through training that leads to good paying, long-term jobs.

 

Here are just a few examples of employer-driven programs that are making a difference.

 

Ohlone College Smart Manufacturing Curriculum
Ohlone College kicked off the Smart Manufacturing Program this Fall with a goal to develop and deliver a package of new engineering courses driven by evolving advanced manufacturing employment needs and organizing them in a structured, highly-supported pathway with defined onramps. These onramps are targeted specifically for developmental students, traditionally underrepresented in STEM degree and career tracks, in order to expand and diversify the talent pool of engineering techs qualified for employment with local advanced manufacturing firms.

With a new state-of-the-art facility, including a Smart factory and robotic equipment, Ohlone College is the first and only community college in California to offer this curriculum!

 

This new curriculum was created based on direct feedback received from the industry advisory roundtable, which was 80 members strong, and comprised of local business leaders, Fremont’s Economic Development, policymakers, and local workforce and education partners. Enjoy a few pictures from the kick-off ceremony last night as well as a video message from Mayor Mei at the end of the blog!

 

Tesla’s Workforce Programs

Fremont’s largest advanced manufacturer and employer is leading by example with employer-driven training programs such as Tesla START which arms students with deep knowledge of Tesla products and service, so graduates are ready to hit the ground running on Day 1 of their new careers.

 

Each year Tesla also celebrates Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day, a national movement to show girls how engineering can be a great career choice and a great way to change the world. This program engaged 200 female students in 2019.

In addition, Tesla has been part of the advisory board for Ohlone College to advise and collaborate closely on the new Smart Manufacturing Program curriculum that addresses their workforce needs.

 

Fremont Library Maker Space
Fremont’s FUSE fellow, Parker Thomas set out on his quest last year to introduce STEM activities to anyone and everyone who is interested in innovation thinking. The new program called “Archimedes” featured in our June 2019 blog was created at the Fremont Library, which is a makerspace full of laser cutters, 3D printers, a new computer lab, and hand tools to foster not only learning, but also experimenting and failing.

 

Fremont Economic Development connected Parker with local advanced manufacturing and technology companies to explore what skills employers are looking for in today’s workforce. The culmination of this effort led to local students utilizing the library maker space to develop and prototype solutions to real-life design challenges identified by two local Fremont companies – Gridscape and Sepisolar – both of whom listed problem-solving and life-long learning skills as “top qualities” in workforce today.

 

NextFlex
NextFlex has developed a portfolio of workforce programs that bring partners from across the spectrum of workforce development stakeholders to ensure businesses have the depth and diversity of talent required to drive innovation and remain globally competitive. NextFlex largely focuses on the development and commercialization of Flexible Hybrid Electronics (FHE), such as wearable circuits that can be imbedded into clothing to monitor heart rate and hydration, for instance. Check out our July July 2019 blog featuring Nexflex to learn more.

 

 

Workforce Development will continue to be a critical component of City’s economic development program. In addition, the City provides a wide range of support for employers that include permitting support, industry connections, access to resources, and marketing.

 

Collectively, this employer-focused approach allows our innovative companies to secure workforce talent required to stay competitive in a dynamic, fast-growing, globally-competitive economy.

 

 

First-grade teacher, student remain friends 62 years later

AP Wire Service

By David B. Snow

The Paducah Sun

 

PADUCAH, Ky. (AP), Aug 18 – Back in the day, first grade was often a student's first experience in a classroom, the first time to be away from home for an extended time and have to obey someone new. Students often learned how to read, write, do math and so many more important things in first grade.

 

Lisa Henderson got more out of her first-grade year than reading, writing and `rithmetic. She found a lifelong friend in her teacher, Mary Sowell, and was inspired to become a teacher herself by her experiences in first grade. The two former teachers often get together for lunches, like they did Aug. 8 when The Sun caught up with them.

 

Henderson was in Sowell's first-grade class at Lone Oak Elementary School during the 1956-57 school year and was a classmate of Sowell's oldest daughter, Elaine.

 

“I think I had 40 (students) in that first-grade class,” Sowell said. “Of course, now, that's almost against the law.”

 

The number of students in area schools burgeoned after the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant was built in 1952 and prospective workers brought their families to McCracken County.

 

Sowell, 95, had a 37-year career as a teacher in schools in Paducah, McCracken County and Massac County, Illinois, before retiring in 1994.

 

“When I got out of college in `46, I started in the city of Paducah,” she said. “I taught at Hanifan and Longfellow schools in the city of Paducah. Then, I married and had children and ended up at Lone Oak. But, I ended up the last 28 years in Massac County.”

 

Henderson was a special education teacher at Paducah Middle School for 25 years and retired in 2001. She has worked as a substitute teacher and in homebound instruction with McCracken County schools for the last 14 years.

 

“I went into education because of teachers like Mrs. Sowell,” she said. “They make an impression on your life and they made a difference in your life, and I've been in education all my life, also. Students have always been very special to me.”

 

Several of those first-grade memories are still fresh in their minds.

 

“I loved the rhythm band; I remember that,” Henderson said. “I remember our reader — the reading book, `Dick and Jane.' I loved that. I loved to read.

 

“I learned to read in first grade. I don't think there was that much emphasis (then) on learning to read before you went to school.”

 

Sowell said she wanted to get copies of those readers for her great-granddaughters.

 

“The reason I liked the Scott Foresman `Dick and Jane' primers is because it was family-oriented and not too many (readers) at that time were family-oriented,” she said.

 

Sowell said that she and Henderson kept in touch for so long because Henderson's parents kept in touch with Sowell and they all went to the same church.

 

“We feel blessed to know each other,” Henderson said. “It's just been a blessing to me. She is such an amazing lady.”

 

Sowell said: “God has blessed me through friendships. I am so happy that he has kept me inspired to stay in touch.”

–––

 

Information from: The Paducah Sun, http://www.paducahsun.com

 

 

NTSB: Tesla Autopilot let driver rely too much on automation

By Tom Krisher

AP Auto Writer

 

DETROIT (AP), Sep 04 – A government investigation has found that a design flaw in Tesla's Autopilot semi-autonomous driving system and driver inattention combined to cause a Model S electric car to slam into a firetruck parked along a California freeway.

 

The National Transportation Safety Board determined that the driver was overly reliant on the system and that Autopilot's design let him disengage from driving.

 

The agency released a brief report Wednesday that outlined the probable cause of the January 2018 crash in the high occupancy vehicle lane of Interstate 405 in Culver City.

 

The findings raise questions about the effectiveness of the Autopilot system, which was engaged but failed to brake in the Culver City crash and three others in which drivers were killed since 2016.

 

No one was hurt in the Culver City crash involving a 2014 Tesla Model S that was traveling 31 mph at the time of impact, according to the report.

 

The crash occurred after a larger vehicle, which the driver described as an SUV or pickup truck, abruptly moved out of its lane and the Tesla hit the truck that had been parked with its emergency lights flashing while firefighters handled a different crash.

 

The probable cause of the rear-end crash was the driver's lack of response to the firetruck “due to inattention and overreliance on the vehicle's advanced driver assistance system; the Tesla Autopilot design, which permitted the driver to disengage from the driving task, and the driver's use of the system in ways inconsistent with guidance and warnings from the manufacturer,” the NTSB wrote in the report.

 

Tesla has said repeatedly that semi-autonomous system is designed to assist drivers, who must pay attention and be ready to intervene at all times. The company says Teslas with Autopilot are safer than vehicles without it, and that the system does not prevent all crashes but makes them less likely.

 

CEO Elon Musk has promised a fully autonomous system next year using the same sensors as current Teslas, but with a more powerful computer and software.

 

The report says the Tesla's automatic emergency braking did not activate, and there was no braking from the driver, a 47-year-old man who was commuting to Los Angeles from his home in suburban Woodland Hills. Also, the driver's hands were not detected on the wheel in the moments leading to the crash, the report said.

 

Cellphone data showed the driver was not using his phone to talk or text in the minutes leading up to the crash, but the NTSB could not determine if any apps were being used.

 

A statement from a driver in a nearby vehicle provided by Tesla said the driver appeared to be looking down at a cellphone or other device he was holding in his left hand before the crash.

 

 

Tesla heads down new road with car insurance in California

By Michael Liedtke and Tom Krisher

AP Business Writers

 

SAN FRANCISCO (AP), Aug 28 – Tesla owners in California can now buy insurance from the electric car company in what may be the first step toward the unconventional automaker providing coverage for a fleet of driverless taxis.

 

The expansion announced Wednesday comes four months after Tesla CEO Elon Musk told analysts the company would branch into insuring its own cars for people who buy or lease them.

 

Musk believes Tesla has learned so much about its cars that it will be able to offer rates 20% to 30% below those offered by traditional insurers. That will likely to appeal to Tesla owners who have been complaining about being charged too much for coverage.

 

Although the insurance is only being sold in California to start, Tesla plans to offer coverage throughout the U.S. at a later undisclosed state.

 

The policies will only be for personal usage of the Tesla cars, but the Palo Alto, California, company also wants to eventually offer commercial policies.

 

It's a move Tesla may have to take if Musk is to deliver on his promise to begin selling Tesla vehicles capable of navigating roads without a driver behind the wheel within the next 16 months. Self-driving car experts believe that is unlikely to happen, but Musk has promised to have a fleet of robotic Teslas operating as part of a ride-hailing service by the end of next year.

 

To make that vision a reality, the driverless cars will need commercial insurance – something no company but Tesla may be willing to provide, given it probably will be exploring uncharted territory if it's able to dispatch fully autonomous vehicles to pick up passengers.

 

Selling insurance will also provide Tesla with another source of revenue as it tries to prove it can consistently make money. The company was profitable during the last half of last year – the longest stretch of prosperity in its history – but has lost another $1.1 billion during the first half of this year. Those losses could rise even higher if Tesla miscalculates the risks of selling auto insurance.

 

Tesla's disappointing financial performance and escalating doubts about its future prospects have caused its stock to plunge 35% so far this year.

 

Tesla believes it has learned so much about the technology, safety and repair costs of its cars that it will be able to figure out the proper prices to charge for each policy. Its electric cars are equipped with so many sensors that the company could theoretically monitor whether the drivers are prone to chronic speeding or habitually engaging in other risky behavior, but Tesla says it won't do that.

–––

 

Krisher reported from Detroit.

 

 

‘Musketeers’ fighting fit and full of fun

By Julie Grabowski

Photos by Chris Scott

 

The clash of swords, call of adventure, and a hearty dose of humor announce Douglas Morrisson Theatre’s (DMT) 40th anniversary season as they bring “Ken Ludwig’s The Three Musketeers” to the stage.

 

Based on Alexandre Dumas’ popular 1844 novel, Ludwig’s adaptation was commissioned by the Bristol Old Vic in England and premiered in 2006 to rave reviews. The story’s themes of heroism, brotherhood, treachery, romance, and honor still have plenty of appeal and relevance, and are given an injection of girl power as Ludwig introduces the character of d’Artagnan’s sister into the Musketeer sanctum.

 

Trained by his father in swordplay, life, and honor from a young age, d’Artagnan has always dreamed of going to Paris and joining the Musketeers, the legendary guardsman for King Louie XIII. Finally on his way, he is joined by his sister Sabine, who is to further her education at a convent school in Paris. However, Sabine also has a yen for adventure, stating, “Being a girl in the 17th century is just not that much fun.” She disguises herself as a male servant to travel with her brother, and the two immediately get swept into adventure and intrigue.

 

D’Artagnan finds himself in skirmishes with the famous three Musketeers – Athos, Porthos, and Aramis – the encounters all ending with duels scheduled for later that night. And if d’Artagnan can survive, he will be rewarded with yet another evening appointment – a rendezvous with Queen Anne’s lady in waiting, Constance, whom he rescued from an attack earlier in the day.

 

As d’Artagnan teams up with the three men to save the Queen, they face the scheming, power hungry Cardinal Richelieu, his vicious Captain of the Guard Rochefort, and the dangerous and vengeful Milady, the Countess de Winter. It’s war on the Cardinal, but who will triumph?

 

Director Stephen Muterspaugh delivers a well-orchestrated, playful production that delights with continual action and laughs. His cast embodies the famous cry, “All for one and one for all,” functioning as a harmonious unit that clicks on every level. Also serving as fight choreographer, Muterspaugh treats to enthusiastic and compelling swordplay, making great use of the stage and just about every cast member.

 

Izaak Heath’s d’Artagnan is full of youthful exuberance with an openness of spirit that makes him equal to all tasks. Heath pairs well with Kate McGrath who brings spunk and fun as d’Artagnan’s adventure-seeking sister Sabine. The two have a natural sibling camaraderie, which adds a nice angle to the traditional story.

 

Musketeers Steve Alhoff, Dan Kurtz, and David Schiller are an easy and unified trio, equally adept in wordplay and swordplay, and thoroughly enjoyable. Alhoff brings a gentle humor to the scripture-quoting Aramis who must deal with Sabine’s romantic interest. Kurtz delights with his joviality as Porthos, and Schiller brings a nice gravitas to the love-betrayed Athos.

 

Prefer a bit of villainy to heroes? Ray D’Ambrosio, Li-Leng Au, and David Ghilardi more than fit the bill. D’Ambrosio is commanding as the rough and threatening Rochefort, tangibly evil from the way he moves to his vehement swordsmanship. Au is sleekly sinister as the Countess de Winter, and brings a formidable female power to the story. Ghilardi is an imposing authority as Cardinal Richelieu and nicely laces his villainy with a comic streak.

 

Sara Luna is charming as Constance, Cynthia Lagodzinski sure footed as Queen Anne, and Russell Nauman is a scene stealer with his effeminate, childish King Louis XIII.

 

Christopher Fitzer’s appealing and effective set design creates a spacious playground of avenues for the action, which is fully utilized. Costume designer Y. Sharon Peng provides a visual buffet full of rich and elaborate ensembles, which get a further boost in the ball scene, where the animal-themed headdresses are a wonderful spectacle.

 

“The Three Musketeers” is a spirited night of theatre that, while plenty of fun, is also a timely reminder to stick together, stand up for your beliefs, and conduct yourself with courage and honor. And maybe a bit of sword fighting…

 

Ken Ludwig’s The Three Musketeers

Thursday, Sep 12 – Sunday, Sep 29

Fridays & Saturdays at 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m.

Douglas Morrisson Theatre

22311 N. Third St, Hayward

(510) 881-6777

www.dmtonline.org

Tickets: $15 – $29