Coming to AC Transit buses: hand sanitizer and facemasks
Submitted by Robert Lyles
Officials from Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District (AC Transit) recently unveiled a new multi-prong action plan outlining the transit district’s commitments to onboard Health & Wellness; Service & Operations; Communications & Engagement; and technical Innovations for Recovery. The plan is dubbed reNEW Plan.
“For 60 years, AC Transit has been the transit choice in the East Bay,” said AC Transit Board President Joe Wallace. “We have weathered earthquakes, social unrest, even a global recession through sound planning. Our reNEW Plan joins that tradition of planning excellence by demonstrating how AC Transit is working around the clock to restore full service and confidence, without compromising health and safety.”
The reNEW Plan goes beyond the minimum standards of the 30-member Bay Area Blue Ribbon Transit Recovery Task Force — a Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) initiative to guide the future of the Bay Area’s public transportation network, as we all adapt to the pandemic — by deploying these demonstrable upgrades.
o Onboard PPE including hand sanitizer dispensers and free facemasks
o Onboard physical distancing of at least six feet
o Filtered and cleaner air onboard
o Bus Operator Shields
o Onboard anti-viral sprayers and foggers, and nightly disinfecting of every bus
For more information about AC Transit’s reNEW Plan and COVID-19 updates, please visit their website at www.actransit.org.
Alameda County Fire Department Log
Submitted by ACFD
Tuesday, September 15
• At 12:41 p.m. firefighters were dispatched to a residential kitchen fire on Derby Court in Union City. They quickly knocked out the blaze and prevented it from spreading into the attic. Three people and six dogs were displaced from the home. There were no injuries.
Wednesday, September 16
• At around midnight firefighters responded to a report about a fully involved RV fire with extension into a home on North Boulevard in San Leandro. One person inside the RV was taken to a hospital with significant burn injuries. Firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze; no firefighters were injured.
American Airlines will drop flights to 15 cities in October
Aug 20
By David Koenig
AP Airlines Writer
American Airlines will drop flights to 15 smaller U.S. cities in October when a federal requirement to serve those communities ends.
The airline blamed low demand during the coronavirus pandemic, which has triggered a massive slump in air travel and huge losses for the carriers. Airlines and their labor unions are seeking billions in new taxpayer relief.
American said its schedule covering Oct. 7 through Nov. 3 will drop flights to cities including Sioux City, Iowa; New Haven, Connecticut; and Springfield, Illinois.
“This is the first step as American continues to evaluate its network and plans for additional schedule changes in the coming weeks,” the airline said in a prepared statement.
More than half of the cities that American is dropping have no other airline service. It will be a major blow to Tweed-New Haven Airport, but the airport's executive director, Sean Scanlon, held out hope that the loss will be temporary.
“I'm confident that we will see other carriers here once the industry bounces back from COVID regardless of what happens with American,” Scanlon said.
A massive pandemic-relief measure approved in March set aside up to $50 billion in cash and low-interest loans for the nation's passenger airlines. American was the largest recipient – $10.7 billion if a pending loan wins final approval from the U.S. Treasury Department.
In return for taxpayer dollars, airlines were barred from furloughing workers and were required, in most cases, to continue serving destinations they had before the pandemic. Both of those conditions expire Sept. 30.
Passenger airlines and their labor unions are lobbying for an additional $25 billion to keep paying workers and avoid furloughs through next March. Cargo airlines and contractors would get $7 billion.
The push by airlines and labor has received significant support in Washington. A majority of the Democratic-controlled House endorsed the additional money, so did 16 Senate Republicans. President Donald Trump spoke favorably about helping the airlines when asked about the proposal.
However, the provision is wrapped up in discussions over a larger virus-relief package that would include extended unemployment benefits and, Democrats hope, aid to cities and state governments. The fate of that measure is unclear after negotiations between congressional Democrats and the White House broke down more than a week ago.
An American Airlines executive cited the stalemate in Washington for the airline's decision to cut service to some destinations.
“We have been holding off, hoping that we would come to some sort of agreement that would extend (the payroll money) and would extend the service requirement. That broader negotiation does seem to be stalled, and this is an unfortunate casualty of that,“ said the executive, who spoke on condition of anonymity to explain private discussions about the decision.
Without more federal money, airlines may lay off or furlough tens of thousands of workers as early as Oct. 1. American has warned 25,000 workers they could lose their jobs. United Airlines has sent notices covering 36,000 employees. The final number of cuts will depend on how many employees take offers of buyouts, early retirement or long-term leave.
The requirement to preserve most routes that airlines flew before the pandemic has been unpopular with airlines because many of them carry few passengers. The Transportation Department agreed to let airlines drop a few cities if other carriers continued flying there, but many other requests were denied.
American Airlines lost more than $2 billion in its most recent quarter.
Other airlines declined to comment on their plans.
Industry analysts believe American did not simply ax cities with the fewest flights or seats. The airline likely considered other factors, such as competition and important customers, they said.
“It's a network planner's nightmare to pull out of a city,” said Jim Ogden, a product director at aviation data firm Cirium and a former network planner for American. “When you close down a city, you're cutting those customers off to your entire network.“
American could continue to serve the smaller cities in a limited capacity, through flights at nearby airports or by selling tickets to flights operated there by another carrier, a practice called code-sharing.
Other cities that American dropped from the October schedule are Del Rio, Texas; Dubuque, Iowa; Florence, South Carolina; Greenville, North Carolina; Huntington, West Virginia; Joplin, Missouri; Kalamazoo-Battle Creek, Michigan; Lake Charles, Louisiana; New Windsor, New York; Roswell, New Mexico; Stillwater, Oklahoma; and Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
–––
Dave Collins in Hartford, Connecticut, contributed to this report.
BART Police Log
Submitted by Les Mensinger and BART PD
Monday, September 14
• At 1:29 p.m. a woman identified by police as Maria Hernandez, 38, of Hayward was arrested at Hayward station on suspicion of providing false identification and assault on a police officer. A record check showed she also had a $1,000 arrest warrant for theft issued in Solano County.
Tuesday, September 15
• At 6:55 p.m. a man identified by police as Dale Roberts, 32, of Berkeley was arrested at Bay Fair station in San Leandro on suspicion of battery and a $75,000 warrant held by San Francisco Police Department. Another man, identified by police as Benjamin Tuluiga, 25, of San Lorenzo was also arrested on suspicion of battery. Both men were booked into Santa Rita Jail and issued separate prohibition orders.
• At 12:19 p.m. a man identified by police as William Lusk, 33, of Oakland was arrested at San Leandro station on suspicion of attempted robbery and possession of burglary tools. He was issued a prohibition order and booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Friday, September 18
• At about 12:30 p.m. BART police reported a male was stabbed aboard a train at the Warm Springs/South Fremont station. A suspect was taken into custody; the victim was taken to a hospital for treatment. The station was closed for about half an hour before reopening in mid-afternoon. An investigation is ongoing.
Bay Area church fined $112K for holding indoor services
AP Wire Service
SANTA CLARA, Calif. (AP), Sep 17 – The pastor of a San Francisco Bay Area church that racked $112,000 in fines for defying the local public health order by holding indoor services has begun holding services in the church parking lot.
Pastor Jack Trieber of the 3,000-seat North Valley Baptist Church in Santa Clara said he will hold services outdoors until health officials give the green light to indoor services, KGO-TV reported Wednesday.
County officials told the television station there were no plans to forgive the fines but that the county's enforcement action was over because the church was complying.
Trieber told his congregation that he had senators contact him, saying they had provided President Trump with the pastor's personal cell phone number, asking if he would take a call from the White House. He said he did not pursue connecting with the president because he chose to obey the county's directives.
Trieber also said he was prepared to unleash a flood of one million emails from supporters to local government offices but decided against that avenue.
In an outdoor sermon Wednesday evening, he told the congregation sitting in their cars, “I don't wish anything evil to happen with authorities.”
“Tonight was the right decision to move out here.”
‘Bike to Wherever Day’
Submitted by City of Fremont
On Thursday, September 24, Fremont will celebrate “Bike to Wherever Day.” On this day, community members are encouraged to join with others across the Bay Area to get out and ride. Anyone planning to ride on Bike to Wherever Day can complete an online pledge to ride which will unlock access to digital goodies and maps of self-guided rides. Bike to Wherever Day replaces Bike to Work Day, which is traditionally celebrated in May, but has been restructured for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The city is adding to the fun on Bike to Wherever Day by organizing a friendly competition for the best photos of residents riding in their community. Residents can submit a photo of themselves or their family out riding to a local business or recognizable Fremont landmark.
The photos will be judged by Fremont’s mobility commissioners and the top five entries will receive gift certificates to a local business. Photos can be emailed to fremontmoves@fremont.gov before Wednesday, September 30, and winners will be announced in early October. By your submission, you are waiving the rights to the photo and consent to the City of Fremont’s use of the photo.
Bike to Wherever Day
Thursday, Sep 24
Photo Submission Deadline: Before Wednesday, Sep 30
fremontmoves@fremont.gov
Local Bay Area organization joins the fight against pandemic
By Alfred Hu
Early in 2020, the Covid-19 outbreak affected numerous businesses, schools, and families with unexpected challenges. As the pandemic worsened, many food service workers were forced to work without any protection from the virus and many eateries faced closure. But in April, the organization’s CEO Sky Yang, along with a group of innovative and dedicated high school students in Dublin, California formed a non-profit organization known as Break the Outbreak (BTOB). BTOB quickly grew to include chapters in Fremont, San Ramon, Livermore and many other cities and states to stop the spread of COVID-19 and keep businesses afloat during and after the pandemic.
To meet that goal, BTOB supplied care packages free of charge to grocery stores, restaurants, senior centers, food banks and other establishments. Packages included personal protective equipment (PPE), cloth face masks, plastic face shields and hand sanitizers. Care packages were also delivered to the homeless, isolated seniors and low income families. Among the many recipients of care packages from BTOB were Black Bear Diner and Carlton Senior Living in Fremont, Inchin’s Bamboo Garden in San Ramon, St. Raymond Church in Dublin and the Pleasanton Farmers Market. In addition, the San Jose chapter donated 35 PPEs to the Second Harvest Food Bank of Silicon Valley.
BTOB went even further by helping in the California wildfires fight. Its Dublin Omega team and Dublin Founding team collectively organized a water bottle donation drive for the hardworking firefighters, donating approximately 400 water bottles and 50 granola bars to Station 17.
BTOB experienced several challenges getting off the ground. One was creating a social platform from scratch so people and business could post their needs for supplies. Another was building relationships with local establishments while initially facing rejections from many restaurants. However, a breakthrough finally came. “In April, we partnered with a local Rigatoni’s, and Break the Outbreak took off from there. After gaining traction among local farmers’ markets, we expanded in cities like Fremont, Pleasanton, Roseville, Salt Lake City, Chillicothe, Los Angeles, and San Jose,” said Yang.
Another challenge was the creation of face masks and shields. Lizzie Davies, Director of the Livermore Chapter, mentioned that making high quality masks was quite difficult at first and noted that many masks were initially rejected. “We couldn’t settle for something mediocre, so often times masks had to be redone to ensure that they were safe enough,” said Davies. “We had to learn how to use a sewing machine as well as be meticulous with our work,” she added.
Innovation was key. For example, in creating the website, Prahalad Chari, CTO and Director of the Fremont Chapter, said “We have a lot of free time on our hands due to the pandemic. That’s how I began working on the Break the Outbreak website, as well as creating a mobile platform where users anywhere can request supplies in a way that’s both efficient and reliable. When practically every other means of communication is shut down, digitalization is our only way forward.”
As to balancing many daily responsibilities, Kanchan Naik, the organization’s Executive Director of Media Outreach mentioned, “With a global pandemic outside, it’s easy to lose yourself in the initial waves of fear and anxiety, while also balancing a myriad of academic responsibilities. But working for Break the Outbreak both requires and creates strength. Our donations help keep workers safe, who in turn have the potential to help so many others. Although the circumstances are novel, it’s comforting to know that we have made a difference in our community.”
According to Yang, BTOB’s future plans includes promoting vaccine awareness and getting ready to face the next outbreak, should it occur. “We have a broad vision. As the next generation, we want to initiate change in every sphere impacted by the pandemic. As of right now, when the vaccine comes out the next step would be prompting a vaccine awareness campaign spearheaded by our medical informatics committee. As Break the Outbreak, we are not only breaking today’s outbreak, but the outbreak of the years to come.”
BTOB is funded by online donations and to date, approximately $3,610 of the intended goal of $4,000 has been raised. If you wish to donate to BTOB visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/we-break-the-outbreak or https://breaktheoutbreak.org/.
Free chipping service to help reduce fire risk
Submitted by City of Hayward
Hayward Fire Department is now accepting applications from Hayward and Fairview Fire Protection District residents for free chipping of tree limbs and branches. All residential properties east of Mission Boulevard and south of D Street to the border of Union City are eligible to participate—areas considered to be at relatively high risk of fire due to proximity to open spaces with grass land and brush.
To participate, residents must complete the 2020 Request for Chipping Form. They will receive an email confirmation of acceptance to participate and will be placed on a schedule on a first-come, first-served basis. Residents are responsible for cutting and stacking the tree limbs and branches—and a contractor hired by the city will come to the front of each property to do the chipping.
Grant funding is available to help senior, disabled, or low-income residents with expenses associated with cutting, trimming, and stacking limbs and branches. To determine if you or someone you know is eligible for assistance, email hfd@hayward-ca.gov and include your full name, address, and contact information. An application will be emailed to you to be completed and returned by email.
To learn more or to apply, visit www.hayward-ca.gov/ChipperProgram. Additional questions about the chipping program and assistance grants can emailed to hfd@hayward-ca.gov, or you can call fire department administration at (510) 583-4930.
Hayward Chipping Program
(510) 583-4930
www.hayward-ca.gov/ChipperProgram
hfd@hayward-ca.gov
Give you input on climate action plan
Submitted by City of Fremont
City of Fremont is updating its Climate Action Plan and would like to hear from the public at the first community workshop on Tuesday, September 22. This virtual workshop will provide residents with the opportunity to learn about the city’s Climate Action Plan update and share their vision for a sustainable community. For more information and to register, visit Fremont.gov/ClimateWorkshop1. For questions, email sustainability@fremont.gov.
Community Workshop on Climate Change
Tuesday, Sep 22
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Fremont.gov/ClimateWorkshop1
sustainability@fremont.gov
Corps, Jobs, Wildfires, Smoke, and Health
By Robert E. Doyle, general manager, East Bay Regional Park District
The continued heavy pressure on park agencies as an essential service, and limited staffing coupled with the out-of-control massive fires in the west, is not sustainable without a greater investment in public lands stewardship.
As one of the largest employers of youth in the East Bay, the East Bay Regional Park District supports recent federal legislation to expand national service jobs programs. Two bills specifically will help large land management agencies, like the park district, address the challenge of managing large urban forests safely to avoid catastrophic wildfire.
The “Cultivating Opportunity and Response to the Pandemic through Service (CORPS) Act” (referred to in an Opinion piece on September 4th) and the “21st Century Conservation Corps for Our Health and Our Jobs” bills will fund job corps teams in urban areas with high youth unemployment to assist with important and necessary work benefitting the community while granting enrollees lifelong learning and marketable job skills.
In addition to fire-related funding in the 21st CCC legislation, the CORPS Act would help address the challenges experienced by park agencies during the pandemic. Given the limited options for essential outdoor activity, park visitation has surged well beyond the expected annual increase as observed over the last 86 years. The Park District continues to invest in the necessary work to keep parks open and safe for communities of the East Bay and greater San Francisco Bay Area. Recent park district commissioned surveying revealed 96 percent of East Bay respondents believe accessibility to parks and trails has been significantly important for maintaining the mental and physical health of East Bay communities during this pandemic. Additionally, 89 percent of respondents supported providing safe, outdoor jobs for youth.
The park district has historically provided the largest number of jobs for youth in the East Bay at nearly 400 positions per year. Expanding national service opportunities through AmeriCorps and other programs can provide East Bay youth jobs for a variety of important functions. EBRPD is currently working with the Student Conservation Association to repair, maintain, and improve the 1,330+ miles of trails within the district’s trail network. Projects for the preservation of natural habitats and expansion of accessible recreation areas continue to move forward across the two-county jurisdiction – investing in the local economy and supporting a variety of jobs. The work of the the park district and East Bay communities would all directly and indirectly benefit from additional national service jobs.
When asked if parks are an essential service during a pandemic, 89 percent of respondents said yes. Parks have always been important, but never so much as now. Parks and other public lands have remained largely open during the pandemic and will still be there after COVID-19. Proper and ongoing stewardship of public lands, particularly with extreme weather and climate change, is as important now as ever and will continue to be more so in the future. The CORPS Act and the 21st Century Conservation Corps legislation would benefit jobs, the economy, parks, and our communities at a crucial time.
Let’s invest in the health of our community and our young people by providing jobs…environmentally, through parks and national service.
Robert Doyle is general manager of the East Bay Regional Park District. Doyle has been with the Park District since 1975 and has served as General Manager since 2011. The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest park district of its kind in the United States with 73 regional parks on over 130,000 acres of open space.
Socially Distanced Coastal Cleanup
By TCV staff
As usual, September is Coastal Cleanup month, but in order to slow the spread of COVID-19, but in 2020 people are being encouraged to gather in smaller, socially-distanced groups throughout the month rather than attending bigger cleanups over one weekend. This year’s theme is “Protect Your Happy Place.”
According to Baykeeper.org, “Trash pollution has gotten worse during the pandemic due to a sharp increase in the use of plastic bags, takeout containers, and other single-use items, like gloves and masks. Now more than ever, it’s essential for us to fight (and track) the rising tide of trash pollution—September 2020 may be the most important Coastal Cleanup ‘Day’ yet!”
Cleanup groups are encouraged to bring the following items:
• Face mask, gloves, and plenty of hand sanitizer
• Grabbers or tongs and sturdy trash bags
• Snacks and plenty of water
• Sunscreen and sunglasses and/or a hat
If you can’t make it out to the Bay, picking up around neighborhood storm drains, creeks, and rivers, will stop trash from being washed down to the beach by rain. You can track your progress with the CleanSwell app (available for iPhone and Android) and by using the hashtags #CoastalCleanupDay2020 and #LoveSFBay.
Those joining a cleanup event are encouraged to observe the following safety guidelines:
• Do not join a cleanup if you are sick
• Do not participate in a cleanup if air quality is too poor for outside activity
• Do not touch discarded PPE without a grabber or tongs
• Do not pick up syringes or other sharp objects, dead animals, or human waste
• Separate hazardous waste like batteries and paint, and take them to a hazardous waste dropoff center
• Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from people outside your household
• Wear a mask and gloves
• Dispose of (or wash) your gloves and thoroughly wash/sanitize your hands after the cleanup
In Fremont, Niles Discovery Church is hosting a socially-distant cleanup on Saturday, September 26 at Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area. The church can be reached through their contact form at www.nilesdiscoverychurch.org or (510) 797-0895.
https://www.coastal.ca.gov/publiced/ccd/ccd.html
Help from Washington needed to recover from SCU Fire
By Supervisor Dave Cortese
We all owe a great debt of gratitude to the thousands of firefighters who fought fearlessly to control the two large fires that consumed nearly 400,000 acres in the eastern part of Santa Clara County and nearly 87,000 to the south and west in Santa Cruz and San Mateo counties near the Santa Clara County line.
I also want to thank Mother Nature. A shift of the wind in the SCU Lightning Complex Fire could have allowed the blaze to move over the ridge of the Diablo Range and into residential areas in county pockets and San Jose. The SCU Fire is expected to be 100 percent contained by September 17.
The focus is now on helping those who were in the path of these devastating fires. In Santa Clara County, attention must be on the ranchers and residents who lost homes, buildings, grazing land for cattle, livestock, vehicles and more in the SCU Fire, and who face an uncertain future.
On September 2, I sent an urgent request to Governor Gavin Newsom asking for his help in adding Santa Clara County to the Presidential Major Disaster Declaration because of the damage caused by the SCU Fire. The SCU Fire is the second largest fire in the state’s history and is not yet eligible for FEMA aid although eight other counties were included. State Senator Jim Beall and State Assemblyman Ash Kalra are among those who support my request.
I recently toured the SCU Fire areas in the Diablo Range of the county from San Jose to beyond Lick Observatory to the San Antonio Valley to survey the widespread damage. It was heartbreaking to see that black scorched earth had replaced vibrant grasslands, shrubs and oak trees that provided feed and shelter to deer and other wildlife and 13,471 head of cattle and livelihoods to the ranchers and rural workforce.
An initial damage estimate of the impacted areas of the SCU Fire is $26 million, including the loss of cattle and the loss of vegetation that feeds them, according to a report from the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. This estimate does not include the loss of roads, cabins, barns, and other buildings. The report also notes that water quality and quantity will suffer from the fire’s impact on the Calaveras and San Antonio Reservoirs in Santa Clara and Alameda Counties. Visit my website — www.supervisorcortese.org — to view the map showing damage to structures.
Santa Clara County needs to be included on the Presidential Major Disaster Declaration so that ranchers and residents can receive federal aid for these losses. For questions, call my office at (408) 299-5030 or email me at dave.cortese@bos.sccgov.org.
COVID-19 Testing Available
Submitted by Fremont Fire Department
Alameda County Health Care Services Agency will offer free COVID-19 testing on Saturday, September 26. The effort is in partnership with Asian Health Services, Regional Pacific Islander Taskforce, Bay Area Community Health, Color, and City of Fremont.
Testing is available via appointment only by calling (510) 735-3222 or by registering online at www.color.com/ahs. Testing is available for anyone 13 or older. You do not need a doctor’s note or insurance, and you will not be asked about immigration status.
To learn more about free COVID-19 community testing sites throughout Alameda County, visit https://covid-19.acgov.org/testing.page. For additional COVID-19 community testing site information specific to Fremont and to view testing fliers in English, Chinese, Arabic, Tagalog, Spanish, Korean and Vietnamese, visit www.fremont.gov/COVIDTesting.
COVID-19 Testing
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Saturday, Sep 26
Fremont Family Resource Center, Asian Health Services
39155 Liberty St., Fremont
(510) 735-3222
www.color.com/ahs
www.fremont.gov/COVIDTesting
Free
Daisy’s Day goes virtual
Submitted by Karin Conn
The Palo Alto Humane Society (PAHS) is proud to sponsor the fourth annual and first ever virtual fundraiser “Daisy’s Day 2020,” taking place now through October 31, 2020, with the goal of raising $100,000 to help sick and injured animals in the Greater Palo Alto/mid-Peninsula Area. Donations will go the Daisy Fund to help PAHS provide emergency veterinary services for pets whose owners might not have the necessary funds for lifesaving intervention. PAHS’ unique program of veterinary help is often the first line of defense for sick and injured pets and strays—keeping them out of shelters for lack of means to pay for their care.
Daisy’s Day is named after a shelter dog Daisy. Fortunately, Daisy was adopted, but she needed medical attention. Daisy’s companion was able to provide for her beloved dog but realized that many pet owners cannot shoulder the financial burden of unexpected veterinary care. Her decision to generously contribute to PAHS’ intervention program is the inspiration for Daisy’s Day and a call to the community to support this lifesaving program.
In 2019, Daisy’s Day raised more than $70,000, which helped 95 stray and rescued animals through the PAHS’ Animal Rescue Fund (ARF) and 71 animals and their families through PAHS’ Pet Help program. Additionally, 88 dogs and cats were spayed and neutered.
Find out how to donate at: www.paloaltohumane.org
Drive-Thru Flu Vaccine Clinics
Submitted by Washington Hospital Healthcare System
Now more than ever, it is important for everyone in the community to reduce their risk of seasonal flu. Washington Township Medical Foundation (WTMF) and Washington Urgent Care are holding a series of drive-thru flu vaccine clinics for those aged 6 months and older.
Every Saturday through October 10, specialists will be administering the vaccine while you remain in your vehicle for social distancing. Face masks are required, per Alameda County order. No appointments are necessary. As a courtesy, the hospital will bill insurance. The self-pay option is $35 per vaccine (credit cards only), and the vaccine is mercury/preservative free. Washington Hospital is also offering a walk-in flu vaccine clinic on Fridays, September 25 and October 2.
Drive-Thru Flu Vaccine Clinics
Saturdays until Oct 10
9 a.m. to 12 noon
Locations
Sep 26
Washington West, 2500 Mowry Ave, Fremont
(parking lot facing Emergency Department)
Oct 3
WTMF Nakamura Clinic, 33077 Alvarado-Niles Blvd, Union City
WTMF Pediatrics, 39500 Fremont Blvd, Fremont
Oct 10
Washington West, 2500 Mowry Ave, Fremont
(parking lot facing Emergency Department)
Walk-In Flu Vaccine Clinics
Fridays, Sep 25 and Oct 2
1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
WTMF Danielson Clinic
6236 Thornton Ave., Newark
Ducks for Bucks
By Staff
“Ducks for Bucks,” hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Fremont, is gearing up again, this time to be held virtually on October 3. This year the race will be a random drawing, with proceeds to benefit local nonprofits in the Tri-Cities. A few of the prizes available to win are $2,000 cash, time share condo, and large screen TV.
Purchase a duck and view a list of participating nonprofits at https://www.duckrace.com/Fremont. Ducks are $5 each or 6 for $25.
Ducks for Bucks
Saturday, Oct 3
1 p.m.
https://www.duckrace.com/Fremont
EARTHTALK
From the Editors of E — The Environmental Magazine
Dear EarthTalk: Is it true that wastes left over from mining operations could be used to absorb carbon dioxide and help solve the climate crisis?
— D. Moore, Richmond, Virginia
Yes, mining wastes (“tailings”) could indeed be part of the solution to our climate woes. Researchers have shown that alkaline wastes — such as the slurries (semi-liquid mixtures), gravel and other industrial detritus that accumulate during and after mining projects — could be “reacted” with airborne carbon dioxide (CO2), which would not only sequester some of this most common of greenhouse gases but also neutralize the otherwise hazardous alkalinity of the waste itself.
This is good news because tailings in and of themselves can be a major environmental nuisance and health threat for those living nearby. Since most of this mining waste comes in slurry form means it often ends up in or near water, which causes contamination issues and destroys aquatic life. And because tailings can be transported by wind and/or water, they can easily expand their realm of contamination, spreading into nearby waterways and destroying larger and larger swaths of wildlife habitat.
If we can turn our mine tailings into carbon sinks (absorbers) on a large scale, it’s a win-win. Researchers at Canada’s University of Alberta seem to think so: Their March 2019 study found that the minerals in tailings naturally capture atmospheric CO2 if exposed to them, and the findings are backed up by similar research elsewhere. Harnessing this carbon sequestration (capturing) tool on a global scale would do wonders for our collective carbon footprint.
Meanwhile, an ongoing research project at another Canadian college, the University of British Columbia (UBC), is looking into how to facilitate so-called “direct capture” of atmospheric CO2 into mine tailings with the goal of at least offsetting the greenhouse gases generated as a result of the extraction work. In response to this challenge, UBC is identifying common traits among different types of mine tailings that excel at carbon sequestration in hopes of developing a set of protocols that mining operations anywhere in the world can call upon to reduce their impact and suck up at least the emissions their projects create.
“Incorporation of carbon sequestration activities into mine operations … will generate economic, corporate and societal advantages to mines and affiliated industries, including co-benefits such as tailings stabilization, dust mitigation and toxic metal immobilization,” they conclude. “Carrying this out on a global scale could trap between 310 million to 4 billion tons of carbon dioxide annually,” Robert F. Service reports in Nature. “That could provide the world with a much-needed means of lowering atmospheric carbon dioxide.”
It’s much easier said than done, and governments will need to offer incentives on a massive scale needed to make a dent in atmospheric carbon, Service says, adding: “And engineers will need to figure out how to harness the wastes while preventing the release of heavy metals and radioactivity locked in the material.”
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.
Alameda County Community Food Bank receives funding
Submitted by Tamar Sarkissian
Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is providing $675,000 to 37 food banks serving communities in PG&E’s service area in Northern and Central California. This grant includes $29,950 to Alameda County Community Food Bank.
The funding will help the nonprofit food banks provide critical food support to residents coping with the impacts of COVID-19. The funding also assists area food banks in preparing to serve vulnerable community members during natural disasters and potential Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), which are intended to reduce the risk of major wildfires during severe weather.
PG&E’s grants take into account whether a food bank is located in a Tier 2 or Tier 3 High Fire-Threat District (https://ia.cpuc.ca.gov/firemap/) as designated by the California Public Utilities Commission. These areas are at elevated or extreme risk for wildfires. To promote equity among counties with higher needs, grant amounts will take into account county poverty and unemployment levels, using the California Department of Social Services’ formula.
Park It
By Ned MacKay
For many years, monarch butterflies have been a seasonal attraction at Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont, where they spend the winter as part of their migratory, multigenerational life cycle.
Every year, from November through January, monarch butterflies congregate in the park’s eucalyptus groves, their black and orange wings creating an autumn leaf effect in the eucalyptus trees. Their stopover is part of what has been described as an intergenerational relay race, during which the monarchs spend parts of their life cycle in habitats ranging from the western slopes of the Rockies to the California Coast.
However, in recent times, the monarchs’ population has been sparse at best, leading to concerns that the insects are on the way to extinction. Kristen Van Dam, an East Bay Regional Park District ecologist, provided an update on the monarchs’ status at a recent meeting of a Park District Board of Directors subcommittee.
“There are two populations of monarch butterflies in the United States,” she said, “separated by the Rocky Mountains. The western group ranges from Washington State to Mexico.”
Monarchs have been seen spending the winter in four regional parks: Ardenwood, Point Pinole, Oyster Bay, and Coyote Hills. By far, the largest group is at Ardenwood, and a few show up at Point Pinole. Although monarchs have been seen flying through all regional parks, they seem to roost only at the four just mentioned.
Scientists have noticed a 99 percent decline in the monarch population in the last 30 years, with the greatest decline in 2017 and 2018. There is no single explanation. Factors include loss of habitat, use of insecticides, disease, predation, climate change and fires. The monarchs leave the overwintering sites to breed inland on milkweeds. The caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed; adults can use other nectar sources too.
In terms of habitat, overwintering monarchs need good places to roost (eucalyptus at Ardenwood and Point Pinole), protection from the wind, and enough sunlight to keep warm.
The park district’s role in monarch preservation has been maintaining the overwintering and breeding sites, expanding nectar planting, public education, and collaborating with other public agencies and nonprofits such as the Xerces Society, which is dedicated to monarch butterfly protection.
Van Dam said that the park district obtained a grant to fund removal of some trees at Point Pinole to enhance the overwintering habitat for monarchs, and the district has planted some pollinator gardens for the butterflies. There are also plans to create monarch-friendly habitat at Diablo Foothills Regional Park and Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve.
For the public, if you do establish a monarch-friendly garden, monarch scientists strongly recommend that you plant native milkweed, not the tropical variety.
The naturalists at Ardenwood Historic Farm usually schedule a whole series of programs highlighting the overwintering monarch butterflies. Although Ardenwood is closed and all in-person naturalist programs are on hold because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, you can still learn about the beautiful monarchs. Visit the Xerces Society website at www.xerces.org.
Here is some good news: the park district plans to reopen some of its closed facilities starting on October 2.
At Del Valle Regional Park south of Livermore, re-openings will include the boat launch, boat rentals, the family campground at reduced capacity, and day use on the lake’s east side, at reduced capacity. At Quarry Lakes in Fremont, the boat launch ramp will reopen. The family campground at Anthony Chabot Regional Park near Castro Valley will reopen at reduced capacity. The boat launch and marina concession at Lake Chabot reopened on September 10.
Because of the pandemic and the fire season, circumstances are always changeable. So, your best bet is always to check the park district website, www.ebparks.org for up-to-date information. Click on “COVID-19 & Wildfire-Related Closures” at the top of the home page.
Editorial
Constitution Week – September 17-23
When entering service to our country, civil officials and military personnel are asked to pledge allegiance to and protect the principles of the Constitution of the United States of America. This document, signed on September 17, 1787, was the final act of delegates to a constitutional convention that solidified the foundation of the government for our republic. From the preamble through its articles and amendments, the constitution provides a framework for democracy in the United States. Through a myriad of challenges over 233 years, the Constitution has provided basic principles and rights for citizens of this country that transcend our imperfect present.
As a durable behavioral guide, the constitution spells out expectations of a government for and by the people it serves. The Preamble begins with the words, “We the people…” indicating that the power of government is derived from those governed, not those elected by them to positions of authority. An oath of allegiance is similar for all inducted into civic service including the phrase: “…support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same…”
Although those composing and signing the original constitution were far from perfect, they recognized a model governance that differed from the rule of despots and monarchies without regard for, or true representation of the general public. Within the context of the time period of its composition, the proposed values and organizational structure was innovative and revolutionary, the work of true rebels with a cause. The constitution is not a static document, rather a visionary guide toward a future filled with unknown changes that would require constant interpretation of nuances. Current struggles and past amendments attest to the nature of its permanence. In effect, the founders of our country who formulated this organizational structure, created broad outlines that would demand constant tuning and modification within that paradigm.
Even as circumstances and events – obvious and subtle – shape the future, the constitution continues to offer continuity and context. When the strain of change challenges established principles, the venerable document is a reliable guide to a vision rather than concrete and immutable societal rules. That is the reason for a governmental system that includes three branches – executive, legislative, judicial. Each group is accorded its own role, but none granted absolute power. Currently, all three bodies are under intense scrutiny and subject to significant stress and change. We, the people, are being asked during this time of high anxiety to fulfill our obligation and responsibility to understand, pay attention and respond in a deliberate, serious and thoughtful manner without surrendering to hysteria, paranoia and specious fabrications.
Our nation’s forefathers described a world that did not really exist at the time, but erected a skeletal outline of what it could and should resemble in the future. We, the people, will determine the definitions of the terms. What does freedom and equality for all really mean? What are the limits of individual liberty? What are the roles for each part of our republic?
These are basic questions that will determine the strength and durability of our system of laws and government. This year’s election cycle, confronting a pandemic, supreme court vacancy and civil unrest, is a defining moment in the road toward “a more perfect Union.” Within a whirlwind of controversies, abnormal circumstances and actions, it is imperative that each person who has the right to vote, does so.
ScholarShare bill to protect higher education savings accounts
Submitted by Jeff Barbosa
On September 11, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill by Senator Bob Wieckowski (D-Fremont) to protect ScholarShare 529 savings accounts from creditors in bankruptcy cases, giving families hard hit financially by COVID-19 some security.
The bill, SB 898, is sponsored by California State Treasurer Fiona Ma. SB 898 exempts the state ScholarShare 529 plan from creditors in bankruptcy cases and sets the exemption amount maximum at $15,000 in the first and second year prior to filing for bankruptcy.
“Saving for your child’s college education is difficult enough under normal conditions, but with the economic collapse induced by the pandemic, it is especially tough for families today,” said Wieckowski. “But SB 898 gives families with ScholarShare 529 accounts the comfort of knowing that even if they must file for bankruptcy, their child's college savings are shielded from creditors and their kids’ dreams will not be wiped out.”
Relay for Our Dream Fundraiser
Submitted by Sylvia Yeh
Every weekday for the last six months, 23-year-old Eric Wang has insisted his parents drive him to Friends of Children with Special Needs’ (FCSN) East Bay Center. He needs to see for himself that the doors are closed. Born with autism, Eric doesn’t understand Covid-19 upending his routine. He doesn’t grasp why he can’t attend in-person programs that he has attended for more than 10 years and where he finds his friends and staff who have become family to him.
FCSN launched distance learning in early April, two weeks after sheltering in place began, offering a minimum of five hours of classes daily. For children and adults with autism, screen learning just isn’t the same. On almost every Zoom, 31-year-old Kevin asks: “When can I come back? When will we open?” As a result of the pandemic, FCSN, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization is projecting a potential $2 million funding loss in 2020-21, putting the 24-year-old organization at risk. Staff hours have already been cut.
To replace its annual fall gala fundraiser, FCSN launched “Relay for Our Dream” with a goal of raising $250,000 by November 7. “With a virtual fundraiser,” explains Wang, “we can reach even more people this year, increasing awareness about the needs and abilities of people with disabilities.”
The relay can be created by individuals volunteering to contact circles of people they know to create a team of 10, with each person donating an amount of their choosing. FCSN hopes these individuals will be inspired to launch more teams of their own, creating a ripple effect. “Even a $5 or $10 donation will make a difference,” says Anna Wang, Vice President of Local Programs and Community Relations and a co-founder of FCSN. Donations to the organization are tax-deductible.
The fundraiser culminates with an online gala on Saturday, November 7 from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m., with a capacity of 1,000 computer logins. FCSN will be honoring Nancy Bargmann, Director of California’s Department of Developmental Services, an experienced administrator in the field of disability services, for her leaderships and support of individuals with special needs, families, providers and regional centers.
Matt Keller, formerly an ABC Channel 7 news reporter, will again serve as emcee for his fifth year. A 90-minute program will focus on FCSN’s services through COVID-19. In addition, there will be musical entertainment by FCSN’s Percussion Ensemble and the Dream Achievers Band. The band, prior to the pandemic, averaged 70 performances a year, primarily Bay Area but also in Washington, D.C., Canada, and Asia. On World Autism Day in April 2020 they launched weekly online concerts.
FCSN, headquartered in Fremont, operates programs in Alameda and Santa Clara Counties with community centers in Fremont and San Jose. The nonprofit began in 1996 when 10 immigrant Chinese families came together to provide educational and enrichment experiences for their children. During the pandemic, FCSN has expanded its volunteer programs to offer one-on-one tutoring in any interest area, from dancing to math and robotics to Toastmasters International.
“Just like our students who keep asking when they can come back,” says FCSN Executive Director Sylvia Yeh, “we are asking how long we can last, how long FCSN can survive, losing staff, cutting services. We need support, and we hope the community will reach out to help.”
To participate in the fundraiser, contact FCSN at (510) 739-6900 ext. 3305 or online at http://fcsn1996.org/gala-page/ or administration@fcsn1996.org. Gala ticket price is $20.
FCSN Relay Gala
Saturday, Nov 7
4:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
(510) 739-6900 ext. 3305
Tickets: $20
FEF call for donations
Office of the Superintendent, Fremont Unified School District
Our thanks to everyone who has donated to the Fremont Education Foundation’s “$20 in 2020” campaign to support FUSD students during this time of distance learning. We would like to remind families and the Fremont community there is still time to ensure students and staff are equipped with the technology and high-speed internet access needed to succeed during these challenging times.
FEF has set a fundraising goal of $250,000 to be reached in time for the funds to be transferred to FUSD by October 1, 2020. To increase community support and involvement, FEF has allocated up to $25,000 as matching funds for donations from parents and guardians, families, and community members – anyone who wishes to make a donation! Please consider a donation of $20 for each student in your family. With over 34,000 students enrolled in Fremont public schools, that would total over $680,000 – more than twice our goal.
To make your tax-deductible donation, visit the FEF website at https://www.fremont-education.org/.
New California law helps former inmate firefighters get jobs
By Don Thompson
Associated Press
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP), Sep 12 – California's inmate firefighters will have a shot at becoming professional firefighters once they complete their sentences, under a bill Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law on Friday.
The new law will allow state and county inmates who train as firefighters to seek to erase the criminal records that often are a bar to employment as firefighters or in other professions.
The measure “will give those prisoners hope of actually getting a job in the profession that they've been trained,” Newsom said as he signed the bill against a backdrop of grey ash and charred trees near Lake Oroville, site of one of the most devastating of the many fires that have charred the state in recent weeks.
About 500 inmate firefighters were on the front lines of that fire, authorities said.
California has been struggling in recent years to field enough inmate firefighters because of changes in state law that have reduced the number of lower-level offenders in state prisons. Court rulings also ended some of the incentives for inmates to risk their lives fighting fires when they could earn similar early release credits with less dangerous duties.
The shortage grew this year, as thousands more inmates were released early in a bid to slow the spread of the coronavirus through prisons, pushing the number of inmate firefighters down about 30% from last year.
The new law may create a new incentive, by allowing former inmate firefighters, after their release, to ask a judge to withdraw their plea of guilty. The judge could opt to then dismiss the accusations.
The measure excludes those convicted of certain violent felonies and sex offenses, and the ex-offender would still have to disclose the conviction if he or she applies to become a teacher.
The expungement would give the former firefighters the ability to apply for any of more than 200 occupations that require a state license, an opportunity lost to most people with criminal records, according to Assemblywoman Eloise Reyes, a Democrat from San Bernardino who authored the bill.
“These individuals have received valuable training and placed themselves in danger to defend the life and property of Californians,” she said in a legislative analysis. “Those individuals that successfully complete their service in the fire camps should be granted special consideration relating to their underlying criminal conviction.”
The bill's passage was hailed by criminal justice reform groups, and Newsom said it was backed by various unions, though the union representing professional firefighters said it had not supported the measure.
The district attorneys association had argued against the bill, saying that expungement of criminal records should be limited to lower-level offenders, few of whom remain in state prisons. It said the incentive should be limited to those who are sent to county jails and not state lockups.
$2M support pledged for Alameda Creek Environmental Enhancements
Submitted by Sharene Gonzales
An effort by Alameda County Water District, DeSilva Gates Construction, Alameda Creek Alliance, and Center for Biological Diversity is bringing $2 million in funding for migratory fish passage projects in lower Alameda Creek. The cooperation demonstrates that long-term public, private and non-governmental organization partnerships can achieve multi-layered goals such as environmental enhancements and protecting water supplies.
ACWD’s fish passage projects include the construction of fish ladders, fish screens, and other fish-friendly improvements in lower Alameda Creek to support safe and unobstructed migration of federally listed Central Coast steelhead trout. Following decades of planning, ACWD is currently in the second of a three-year construction schedule to round out its final phase of fish passage projects in Alameda Creek. DeSilva Gates Construction, operator of the DeSilva Gates Aggregates Quarry in Sunol, recently made the first of two $1 million payments to help fund these important projects.
“Alameda Creek fisheries restoration is near to my heart,” said ACWD Board President Judy Huang. “It is not common to see this type of cooperation between organizations who have different interests,” added Huang. “Working together, we found a path forward that leads to success, and many thanks to DeSilva Gates Construction, for their generosity.”
Fremont Fire Department Log
Submitted by Fremont Fire Department
Monday, September 14
• Afternoon shift firefighters responded to a vegetation fire in the area of northbound I-680 near Mission Boulevard and Mission Road. As a precaution, they asked the Fremont Police Department to close nearby Mill Creek Road during the operation. At 6:13 p.m. the blaze was stopped from spreading after burning about five acres. Firefighters stayed at the scene into the evening for an extensive mop up. No injuries were reported.
Fremont Police Log
Submitted by Fremont PD
Monday, September 14
• Day shift officers responded to a report about a man threatening people with a knife in front of the U.S. Bank at 39390 Fremont Boulevard. Arriving officers stopped and arrested a man, later identified by police as Mark Donahue, 58, a transient from Fremont. He was taken into custody without incident and faces charges of making criminal threats.
Celebrate Arts and History in October
Submitted by Hayward Area Historical Society
During the entire month of October, two worthwhile Hayward non-profits—the Hayward Arts Council (HAC) and the Hayward Area Historical Society (HAHS)—are joining forces to raise funds for their continued contributions to local culture.
All interested parties can be dazzled by a wonderful array of original works of art donated by HAC members, archival framed historical prints from the HAHS collection, experiences such as virtual barbecue, cooking and art classes, virtual wine and tequila tastings, pet portraits, gift baskets, and gift cards to many local restaurants and businesses.
In addition, to help grow art and history in our community, both organizations are accepting donations of any size. In fact, businesses and individuals can become sponsors of the event in return for local advertising.
If you value the culture of art and history in the area, plan on getting involved in the month of October. Either jump into the auction for art, history, or restaurants, or simply donate to help keep these valuable local non-profits’ mission afloat in our community. HAC provides opportunities for artistic expression in six art venues and advocates and supports arts education in our schools. HAHS connects people, experiences, and stories of the Hayward area.
All proceeds from the event will be split equally between HAC and HAHS. Both nonprofits rely on individual giving, corporate donations, membership dues, and public program revenue. For more information visit www.haywardareahistory.org/celebrate-arts-and-historyor call (510) 581-0223.
Celebrate Arts and History fundraiser
Thursday, Oct 1 – Saturday, Oct 31
510) 581-0223
www.haywardareahistory.org/celebrate-arts-and-history
San Leandro resolution condemns hate groups
Submitted by Paul Sanftner
Members of the San Leandro City Council, including Mayor Pauline Cutter, recently adopted a resolution condemning white nationalist and white supremacist hate groups. At the same time, they unanimously declared support for classifying under federal law the Ku Klux Klan as a domestic terrorist organization.
As part of its action during their Tuesday, September 8 meeting, the City Council also reaffirmed San Leandro’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
“Along with my colleagues on the city council, we felt it was important for our city to issue a firm statement condemning hateful actions and the ideologies of hate groups,” noted Cutter. “In light of recent events across the country, it is now more important than ever that we as a society take the time to denounce such groups, while also reaffirming our belief that our community’s broad diversity is something to be proud of and something that provides us with incredible strength.”
Following the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, communities all over the world, including San Leandro, saw protests and demonstrations highlighting the unequal treatment that African Americans and other persons of color have endured in the United States. According to publicly available crime data, the United States has also witnessed an increase in racially motivated hate crimes and threats over the past year, including against persons of Asian ethnicity following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response to these trends and events, members of the San Leandro community requested that the city council take formal action to condemn white supremacy and white supremacist hate groups, and to document that their activities run counter to the city’s core values.
Hayward Police Log
Submitted by Hayward PD
Saturday, September 12
• At 5:36 p.m. officers responded to a report about two men fighting on the 28000 block of Mission Boulevard. One man hit the other in the head with a metal pipe. The victim was taken to a hospital for treatment while the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle.
Sunday, September 13
• At 9:56 p.m. officers responded to a traffic accident report in the area of Santa Clara and Jackson streets. Upon arrival, officers found a man inside a vehicle suffering from a gunshot wound. Arriving emergency personnel pronounced the man dead a short time later. The Alameda County Coroner’s Office and Hayward Police Department identified the victim as Vishal Sharma, 33, of Hayward. The incident is being investigated as a homicide. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call police investigators at (510) 293-7176.
Honor Roll
Georgia Institute of Technology
Spring 2020 Dean’s List
• Yuankai Cai of Milpitas
• Joshua Ngotiaoco of Fremont
• Kunal Sharma of Union City
School district receives credit rating upgrade
Submitted by Hayward Unified School District
The Hayward Unified School District received an upgraded credit rating from Moody’s and a stable outlook from Standard & Poor’s. Both are considered among the top three credit rating agencies in the industry. The upgraded rating to near high-grade investment status and a stable outlook reflect the district’s efforts over the past three years to implement solid business practices.
In 2018, Moody’s rated HUSD at an A3 and in two short years upgraded HUSD two levels to A1. This brings the district just shy of being categorized as a high grade investment. Credit ratings are extremely important because they convey to potential investors the risk associated with buying a certain bond. An investment grade credit rating indicates a low risk of a credit default, making it an attractive investment. A high credit rating for HUSD results in a lower cost of borrowing for its taxpayers, ultimately saving its taxpayers money.
Standard & Poor’s – S&P assigned a A+ rating for the district, reaffirming their positive assessment of HUSD and is in alignment with Moody’s assessment. As a credit rating agency, the company issues credit ratings for the debt of public and private companies, and other public borrowers such as governments and governmental entities. S&P rates borrowers on a scale from AAA to D.
This news is a positive development for the Hayward community as it helps drive borrowing costs down when issuing remaining portions of the Measure H authorization and when refunding outstanding bonds (previously issued Measure I or Measure L bonds at a lower rate) Refunding outstanding bonds is similar to refinancing a mortgage. It reduces borrowing costs for our taxpayers, who have been incredibly supportive of HUSD schools.
HUSD did a refunding in 2019, which saved taxpayers over $14M in gross savings or over $8M in present value savings. The latest refunding bond completed this month resulted in $18M in gross savings, or over $13M in present value savings. Therefore, in two years, HUSD has capitalized on its improved credit rating and historically low interest rates to save over $32M in gross savings, or $21M in present value savings to its community.
Call for public art on Japanese American experience
Submitted by Winda I. Shimizu
Photo by Dorothea Lange, Courtesy of the National Archives
The City of Hayward has released a Call for Art to select a companion artwork to the Japanese American Commemorative Marker approved by the City of Hayward in 2019.
The Hayward Heritage Plaza Public Art Initiative Committee is looking to select an artwork and interpretive art piece that can beautify the Hayward Heritage Plaza, communicate meaningful content, preserve an often-forgotten history, and demonstrate respect for the Japanese American community past and present. The design and construction of the selected artwork must include the 600 names of the Japanese Americans, who during World War II were transported from Watkins Street in downtown Hayward to the Tanforan Detention Center for several months and later to an incarceration camp.
To submit your artwork for consideration, visit the City of Hayward website at https://www.hayward-ca.gov/business/doing-business-with-hayward/artist-all-call. The deadline for submission is Saturday, October 31.
Joketober
Submitted by Rose Josue
Plethos Productions has been adapting their 2020 season to produce fun virtual events throughout the pandemic. Their second annual Joketoberfest is now online with a new spin. Plethos and Bare Bottle Brewing have partnered to proudly present Joketoberfest 2020. This year the fun event includes an exclusive variety pack of local craft beers delivered to your door in time to hop on Zoom for a live beer tasting and standup comedy show!
Don’t miss headliner: Laurie Kilmartin, writer for Conan and as seen on Last Comic Standing, Comedy Central and more! Plus, host Tammy TeaLove as seen performing with Mo’nique at San Jose Improv. Performers will also include Ryan Goodcase, youngest winner of World Series of Comedy, Clara Bijl as seen on SF Sketchfest, and Drew Harmon as seen as a regular at the SF Punchline.
Grab a ticket, get your craft beer, hit the couch and enjoy the show! Early Bird & Regular Tickets include all taxes, fees and delivery of a variety case of six full-size handcrafted Bare Bottle Brewing beers, along with a tasting menu and exclusive access to the interactive standup comedy show. Stick around after the show for schmoozing in the VIP Zoom Lounge.
Early bird tickets are $50 through Friday, September 25. Regular tickets are $60; for comedy show tickets only (BYOB) the cost is $10. Cheers!
Joketober
Saturday, Oct 3
7 p.m.
Early bird tickets until Friday, Sept 25
Beer case and tasting menu included $60
Comedy show only $10
www.plethos.org
https://www.barebottle.com/
NOTE: Due to alcohol regulations, guests must be age 21+ to receive the beer shipment.
Kaiser Permanente Becomes First Carbon-Neutral Health System in the U.S.
Submitted by Jonathan Bair
Kaiser Permanente has become the first health care system in the United States to achieve carbon-neutral status. With its longstanding commitment to improving conditions that lead to poor health, Kaiser Permanente has prioritized sustainability to contribute to and catalyze a green future free of the extreme climate conditions currently harming so many Americans.
This move to carbon neutrality eliminates the organization’s 800,000-ton annual carbon footprint, the equivalent of taking 175,000 cars off the road. The U.S. health care industry overall is responsible for roughly 10 percent of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions.
“As wildfires rage across the Western U.S., we can all see that the health impacts of climate change are not abstract or far in the future — they are here today, and they disproportionately impact the most vulnerable among us,” said Greg A. Adams, chairman and CEO of Kaiser Permanente. “We must recognize, for example, that the pollution that leads to respiratory illnesses and is linked to higher mortality rates from COVID-19, disproportionately impacts Black and low-income communities. In order to create a healthier, more sustainable path forward, we must address the inseparable issues of climate and human health as one.”
Climate change causes many conditions that drive poor health, including damaging extreme weather events such as wildfires, hurricanes, and droughts, increased rates of asthma and respiratory diseases, and the spread of infectious diseases such as malaria and Zika virus.
“As physicians, climate change is absolutely in our lane — let’s educate ourselves, our patients, and our communities,” said Imelda Dacones, MD, president and CEO of Northwest Permanente Medical Group. “As a world, we will develop vaccines and effective medicines to treat the COVID-19 pandemic. Climate change, on the other hand, is a public health crisis where there will be no point of return if we don’t act today.”
Certified by the CarbonNeutral Protocol, the milestone comes as Kaiser Permanente has for decades embraced renewable energy and embedded sustainable practices throughout its business operations. The certification applies to its Scope 1 emissions (direct emissions from sources it owns or controls) and Scope 2 emissions (emissions attributable to the electricity it consumes), as well as select Scope 3 emissions (emissions from sources it does not directly own or control), including corporate travel. In order to reach this milestone, Kaiser Permanente first improved energy efficiency in its buildings, installed on-site solar power, and made long-term purchases of new renewable energy generation.
Kaiser Permanente then invested in carbon offsets to counter the currently unavoidable emissions from the natural gas power that heats and cools its hospitals. One project funds clay pot water filters in Guatemala that avoid burning wood or gas to boil water, and also reduce fatal childhood waterborne diseases. Another project prevents Indonesian peatland from conversion into high-pollution palm oil production while funding a floating health clinic for riverside communities.
Looking forward, Kaiser Permanente will expand its focus by reducing its Scope 3 footprint, including its supply chain. The organization will identify a Science-Based Target for additional emissions reductions in 2021.
Local 6th grader restores and donates rototiller
Submitted by Harry Avila
For 12-year-old Francisco Tavares, the offer was exciting: an opportunity to work on a salvaged last century local farm motorized rototiller. He could then donate the operating machine to a Tri-City organization that grows healthy food in environmentally sustainable ways for those in need in Fremont, Union City and Newark.
Francisco’s mother, Elsa, and father, Orlando, are first-generation Portuguese immigrants. Orlando Tavares, who emigrated from the Azores Island of Pico in the Atlantic, is a Niles Rotarian. One of his fellow Rotarians had mentioned the tiller and the need for restoration with possible subsequent use in the community. Orlando sprang into action and enlisted his son to do the job. And so, Francisco, using his inquisitive mind, talent for machinery, and strong motivation, examined the machine and accepted the project. Within a few weeks, Francisco had completed the restoration and refurbishment.
On a mid-September morning, leaders of L.E.A.F. (Local Environmental and Agriculture Fremont) – including President Mia Mora, Treasurer Irshad Rasheed and ACWD board member Aziz Akbari – gathered at the California Nursery Historical Park in Niles to receive the restored rototiller. In return, the LEAF board presented a letter of appreciation to Francisco. Francisco, a sixth grader, beamed with gratitude as he received the letter and comments of approbation for his efforts while his mother and father looked on.
The L.E.A.F. organization was willing to accept the tiller for use in its planned Urban Farm near Mission Boulevard and Mowry Avenue. The Urban Farm, leased from the Alameda County Water District, is adjacent to Stone Garden wherein L.E.A.F. volunteers grow organic vegetables for donation to local food banks. In addition to growing food for donation, LEAF also propagates veggie seedlings through direct sales to the local community and LEAF members during their highly-anticipated seedling sales.
For more information on LEAF and their projects go to Fremontleaf.org or email info@fremontleaf.org.
The show must go on: Local filmmaker perseveres through pandemic
By Hugo Vera
One local filmmaker is showing grit and drive as he continues to make his mark in the world of cinema – and no pandemic will stop him.
At just 26, Fremont native Josh Opper has directed three independent short films, acted in premiere television programs such as “Hack My Life” and “Grease: Live!,” and collaborated with “A-listers” such as George Clooney, Vanessa Hudgens and Bradley Cooper just to name a few. Opper was first introduced to acting while performing for Fremont’s Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish School in the fifth grade and was part of its inaugural musical in 2005. He then acted in productions by the California School for the Deaf and Ohlone College. His formative acting experience came from his time in the Irvington High School Conservatory Theatre (ICT).
“I jumped back into acting doing the ICT shows, but at the same time I was involved with slam poetry, writing out my feelings and finding myself,” says Opper. “I was also in Boy Scouts, working on my Eagle Rank, where I achieved certain merit badges that taught me about true character building, artistic skill sets and leadership qualities.”
A member of the Boy Scouts of America Troop 449 (based in Fremont since 1967), Opper earned his the rank of Eagle Scout through a process that entailed more than 21 merit badges and seven ranks and an extensive community service project to benefit his original alma mater, Our Lady of Guadalupe. At age 18, Opper moved to Los Angeles and attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts (AADA).
During his time at the AADA, Opper learned everything from acting, playwriting, producing, modeling, new media, commercial photography and directing. In 2018, his short film titled “Be the Best You” (which he directed, edited and produced) was featured at the Denver Underground Film Festival and Maryland International Film Festival; the film premiered at Nickelodeon Animation Studio in Burbank. Though his productions are based in southern California, Opper owes his creative vision to his East Bay upbringing.
“The Bay Area’s culture has really allowed [me] to understand the importance of not just the proper representation, but also the stories of other cultures being told appropriately and effectively,” Opper explains. “Watching films like ‘The Kite Runner,’ which takes place in Fremont and talks about the people of Afghanistan, showed me how close to home stories can be and which stories are the important ones to tell.”
At a time when his career appears just to be taking off, the ongoing pandemic poses serious challenges for everyday production and finding work. He says, “The pandemic has hugely affected the industry because everything is running at a low percentage right now. There are less acting breakdowns to audition for, less permits being issued and with less people on set more professionals are ultimately combining jobs.”
Yet despite Hollywood’s pandemic-induced state of limbo, Opper offers words of inspiration to fellow Bay Area thespians looking to enter the industry. “The biggest advice I would give to any young storyteller, or anyone in general who wants to achieve their dreams is to set your goals and follow through with them. Nothing is a dream, it’s just a very positive grind. Remain patient and trust your work.”
Opper’s next acting credit is “Hollow Bedrooms,” which is currently in production. Opper also wants to make known that he still works with fellow ICT-alum Jennifer Brown, Mariah Diaz, Emily Rose Raboy and Katie Kelly.
Learn more about Josh Opper and his work by following his Instagram account mr_oppertunity.
Milpitas Golden Knights: Charging through Speech and Debate
Submitted by Mingxin Wang
As the seemingly endless spread of the coronavirus continued into summer, many students who had spent the past three months taking online classes stayed right in front of their bright computer screens — only this time, they were debating.
Meghaa Ravichandran, a sophomore at Notre Dame High School, was determined to provide educational opportunities to students and create a memorable summer experience despite COVID restrictions. Alongside a team of eight sixth graders, Ravichandran founded the Milpitas Golden Knights, a Public Forum debate program.
Starting in May, Ravichandran led the Milpitas Golden Knights through engaging debate lessons and practice sessions. For twelve weeks, the team reviewed debate rules, watched past debates, and fostered their public speaking abilities. The students even competed against each other, debating questions like, “Should schools require uniforms?” or “Do we need to ban cell phones in classrooms?” At the end of each debate, the students voted for the next debate title in an effort to further challenge themselves.
“Because of COVID, I could not go to summer camp. I used this time productively to engage in debate with my friends, which improved my self-confidence and my public speaking skills,” said Hrithvik, a student on the Milpitas Golden Knights team. All of the students left the program with new skills in communication and leadership — which the parents seemed to agree with as well.
“COVID has been especially hard on the kids and parents. The activities that the kids initiated and continued through the summer [break] kept them productively engaged. Knowing they were involved in an activity that developed a strong skill set and had great mentorship was absolutely a godsend,” said Vinoth, the parent of a Milpitas Golden Knight student.
At the final debate session, Merryhill School Principal Quinn Letan joined the Zoom call to recognize the efforts of the students. For two hours, the students debated about the topic, “Does junk food need to be banned from schools?” They gracefully and confidently presented their points throughout the debate, perfectly encapsulating the courage and honor of a true knight.
Milpitas City Council
September 15, 2020
Proclamation:
• September 15 – October 15 was proclaimed as Hispanic Heritage Month.
Consent Calendar:
• Added a tract to Community Facilities District, approved street names and accepted all offers of dedications as depicted on the final map upon completion, and approved Subdivision Improvement Agreement between the City of Milpitas and Toll West Coast LLC for a residential development at 551 Lundy Place.
• Authorized Release and Settlement Agreements with Valley Water District, Kuskokwim Corporation, and Suulutaaq, Inc. for reimbursement for repairs to City Lighting Landscape Maintenance Assessment District.
• Approved the execution of an Energy Service Agreement with ENGIE Services U.S. Inc.
• Approved award of five Youth Advisory Commission Community Service Scholarships.
Community Development:
• Discussed Milpitas Metro Specific Plan objectives, priorities, and open space strategies. There will be a community meeting focusing on these issues on September 30. Details will be provided on the City Website.
Leadership and Support Services:
• Approved the execution of the Municipal Facilities License Agreements (MLA) with Verizon and AT&T to attach Small Cell Antennas to City-owned vertical infrastructure in the public right-of-way.
• Approved the execution of a Funding Agreement with Santa Clara County for Countywide isolation and quarantine services related to COVID-19.
• Adopted a City of Milpitas Social Media Policy.
Mayor Rich Tran Aye
Vice Mayor Bob Nunez Aye
Carmen Montano Aye
Karina Dominguez Aye
Anthony Phan Aye
Input sought on Mission Boulevard Linear Park transformation
Submitted by City of Hayward
City of Hayward is inviting public input on plans to transform an approximately 1-mile stretch of pathway into a new and improved Mission Boulevard Linear Park.
The Linear Park enhancement is part of the ongoing Mission Boulevard Corridor Improvements project and will address the area running along the east side of Mission roughly between Blanche and Fairview streets and varying in width from 50 to 65 feet.
A main feature of the strip is the pathway used for walking, jogging and casual cycling, and adjacent public exercise equipment. Planned landscaping improvements include new irrigation lines, soil preparation, and the planting of drought-tolerant trees, shrubs, and ground cover in place of high-water usage grasses.
To provide input on other potential upgrades and new uses, consider attending a virtual (Zoom) Linear Park Community Vision Meeting on Friday, September 25. For information on how to join the meeting, visit www.hayward-ca.gov/discover/events/linear-park-community-vision-meeting.
In addition, two Tent Events to allow for in-person review and feedback will take place Monday, September 28, from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. at Mission Boulevard and Blanche Street and from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Mission Boulevard and Corrine Street. Physical distancing, face-covering, and other COVID-19 safety guidelines will be observed. For more information, visit the project page at www.hayward-ca.gov/Linear-Park.
Virtual Community Meeting
5:30 p.m.
Friday, Sep 25
www.hayward-ca.gov/discover/events/linear-park-community-vision-meeting
In-person Tent Events
Monday, Sep 28
7 a.m. – 10 a.m.: Mission Blvd and Blanche St, Hayward
4 p.m. – 8 p.m.: Mission Blvd and Corrine St, Hayward
www.hayward-ca.gov/Linear-Park
Mosquito Abatement
Submitted by Erika Castillo
Photo by Sean McCann via Flickr
The Bay Area has a long-standing history of organized mosquito control. Propelled by the hordes of mosquitoes that would emerge from the marshes and fly towards the hills pestering inhabitants along the way, the first mosquito districts formed shortly after the passage of the California Mosquito Abatement Districts Act in 1915. Now every county in the Bay Area has a mosquito abatement district. The Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District formed 90 years ago and is committed to improving the health and comfort of Alameda County residents by controlling mosquitoes and limiting the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
In recent weeks, the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District has received calls about mosquitoes in the Mirabeau Park, Dupont and Darvon, Northwest Newark and Rosemont areas of Newark. These are Aedes dorsalis mosquitoes, and they lay their eggs in the marsh. When a high tide event occurs, their eggs hatch and a few days later they fly from the marsh into neighborhoods, looking for blood meals. While they are aggressive and can be a major nuisance for humans, they do not carry disease. Adult Aedes dorsalis tend to survive for a few weeks after they hatch and fly.
The Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District proactively treats standing water in the marsh to control mosquito larvae, aiming to prevent adult mosquitoes. Each high tide event hatches a new batch of mosquito eggs that require treatment. In fact, there have been nine high tide events since April, but the last one was the first this year that has led to noticeable adult mosquito activity. The best way for the District to prevent adult mosquitoes is by spending time in the marsh treating mosquito larvae and ensuring the waters are circulating. Each mosquito control technician covers a broad area and their time is best spent focusing on mosquito larvae control. If there is a mosquito problem in your area, the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement District recommends designating a single person to report the issue, rather than multiple phone calls from residents. Designating one person will allow the district to focus on controlling the mosquito population. Educating your neighbors on removing standing water from their property will also help reduce mosquito problems.
Reduce the risk of mosquito bites by following these guidelines:
• DUMP/DRAIN standing water on your property because that is where mosquitoes develop.
• DAWN/DUSK is when mosquito activity peaks, limit outdoor activities during this time.
• DEFEND yourself from mosquito bites by wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts and apply insect repellent containing EPA-registered active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• DOOR/window screens should be in good repair with no tears or holes.
For information about mosquitoes, or to request any of the District services visit www.mosquitoes.org or call (510) 783-7744. Residents can also request mosquitofish for their fishponds, horse troughs, or neglected swimming pools.
Fremont students move forward in scholarship award competition
Submitted by Brian Killgore
Students from Fremont Unified School District (FUSD) high schools were once again well-represented among the approximately 16,000 National Merit Scholarship semifinalists for 2021 named on September 16. In all, 106 FUSD students, representing four of the district’s comprehensive high schools, were on the list, helping Fremont post the third highest number of semifinalists (110) among cities in California — trailing only San Jose and San Diego.
“We are excited to see so many of our students recognized for their hard work throughout their high school careers,” said FUSD Superintendent, CJ Cammack. “I congratulate all our students, as well as FUSD teachers and staff, and our district families, for their efforts — through some challenging circumstances — and dedication to success both in the classroom and in all aspects of their lives.”
Leading the way for FUSD schools, Mission San Jose High School placed 64 semifinalists on the list, followed by Irvington High School with 23, American High School with 13 and Washington High School with six. After submitting applications demonstrating their academic record, community service, leadership, employment and honors/awards received, these FUSD students will join other semifinalists nationwide competing for 7,600 scholarships worth more than $30 million. Those selected as National Merit Scholarship Finalists will be notified in the spring.
Approximately 1.5 million high school juniors from 21,000 schools were considered for the 66th National Merit Scholarship Program through their performance on the 2019 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying test. To become a Finalist, the Semifinalist and their high school must submit a detailed scholarship application, in which they provide information about the Semifinalist’s academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, employment, and honors and awards received.
A Semifinalist must have an outstanding academic record throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by a high school official, write an essay, and earn SAT scores that confirm the student’s earlier performance on the qualifying test. Merit Scholar designees are selected on the basis of their skills, accomplishments, and potential for success in rigorous college studies, without regard to gender, race, ethnic origin, or religious preference.
The 2021 National Merit Scholarship winners will be announced in four nationwide news releases beginning in April and concluding in July. These scholarship recipients will join more than 353,000 other distinguished young people who have earned the Merit Scholar title. More information about the program is posted on the National Merit Scholarship Corporation website at www.nationalmerit.org.
Rescheduled National Night Out event canceled
Submitted by Milpitas PD
Officials from the Milpitas Police Department (MPD) have announced that this year’s National Night Out event, postponed from August 4 to October 6 in Milpitas has been canceled because of COVID-19 concerns. Held each year in August, the National Night Out campaign is an effort designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, strengthen neighborhood spirit and community partnerships with police.
In making the announcement on September 16, MPD officials said the decision was made in the interest of the wellness of the Milpitas community and police staff members. However, they are looking forward to resuming the annual event in late summer 2021.
If anyone is planning to organize and stream online their own neighborhood safety meeting, MPD will attend virtually and answer questions about community safety and police services in Milpitas. For questions, or to schedule a MPD department representative to attend a neighborhood’s virtual meeting, contact Officer Kita Inthasack at (408)-586-2526 by September 30.
Fight in neighborhood results in multiple stabbings
Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont PD
On Sunday, September 20 at 1:10 a.m., patrol officers responded to the 40000 block of Stockton Way for a report of a stabbing. Upon arrival, officers found four men suffering from severe stab wounds and lacerations. The arriving officers immediately began to provide life-saving field trauma care to the victims which prevented them from bleeding out. Medical personnel arrived shortly after and the victims were transported to area trauma centers with serious and life-threatening injuries.
Detectives and crime scene investigators were called out to respond to assist with the investigation. Detectives learned the stabbing was likely the result of an on-going dispute. Several of the involved individuals were heavily intoxicated and confronted another group of subjects who had arrived in a car. An argument ensued, which then led to both sides arming themselves with weapons. Men from both parties were injured as a result of the fight.
All four victims transported to trauma centers were stabilized by medical staff and are expected to survive. At this time, the incident does not appear to be gang related. The investigation remains active as detectives continue to determine appropriate criminal charges between the parties.
We’d like to thank Union City and Newark Police for their response to calls for service in Fremont while patrol resources became limited as a result of this incident, as well as two additional assault with a deadly weapon calls in the City, around the same time.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Det. Matt Floresca at 510-790-6900 or mfloresca@fremont.gov.
Newark City Council
September 10, 2020
Presentations:
• Proclaim September 19-20 as Virtual Newark Days.
Consent Calendar:
• Approve final map for a 21-lot residential subdivision at 6179 Robertson Avenue (D.R. Horton Bay, Inc.).
• Report on administrative actions during August recess.
• Authorize a Side Letter between City and Newark Police Association to clarify and expand provisions related to acting pay.
• Authorize an agreement with Watson Consoles for installation of three emergency communications console/dispatch workstations in an amount not-to-exceed $64,000.
• Authorize and agreement with Systems & Space, Inc. in the amount of $335,000 for high density storage and other ancillary storage solutions.
• Authorize an agreement with KBM-Hogue for general office furniture in an amount not-to-exceed $998,000.
• Introduce an ordinance for an expedited, streamlined permitting process for electric vehicle charging stations.
Items removed from Consent Calendar:
• Accept work of MCK Services, Inc. for Thornton Avenue Pavement Rehabilitation Project.
• Accept Selective Traffic Enforcement Program and Traffic Improvement Project grants from State of California.
Mayor Alan Nagy Aye
Vice Mayor Luis Freitas Aye
Sucy Collazo Aye
Michael Hannon Aye
Mike Bucci Absent
Ohlone College extends limited in-person services
Submitted by Tina Vossugh
Ohlone College’s Newark Center will be opening its doors every Tuesday for students to be able to utilize a new Student Study Center and to take advantage of limited in-person student services beginning September 22. This is in addition to the study center and student services made available on August 3 on the Fremont Campus every Monday and Wednesday.
The college is extending these resources to help serve students in need of a safe, quiet, and socially distanced study space with the support of campus Wi-Fi. Student services available at Newark Center include admissions and records, financial aid, general student information, and career center services.
Most student services and resources are available at www.ohlone.edu/ohlone-college-live-support. Limited in-person student services have been made available because some forms or documents need to be physically turned in and students may need to speak with someone face-to-face regarding questions. Find out more by visiting http://ohlone.edu/resources.
Newark Campus Student Services
Tuesdays
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Student Study Center
39399 Cherry St., Newark
(510) 742-2300
www.ohlone.edu/ohlone-college-live-support
http://ohlone.edu/resources
Business Pulse Check –Ohlone Humane Society
By Madhvika Singh
Photos Courtesy of Ohlone Humane Society and Wildlife Rehabilitation
This article is part of Business Pulse Check, a series where we at Tri-City Voice check in with a local business and how they have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and related closures.
Founded in 1983, Ohlone Humane Society (OHS) is a 501(c)(3) animal welfare nonprofit serving Fremont, Newark and Union City. It began as a grassroots group dedicated to bettering the lives of shelter animals. Since those early days, OHS has expanded its programs and services to benefit all creatures, from urban wildlife to companion animals. While OHS doesn’t operate an animal shelter, it is one of the few humane societies to maintain a wildlife rehabilitation center. “It’s all about the animals. Everything we do is to try and save more lives, that’s the simple bottom line,” says Ann Morrison, volunteer director for OHS.
OHS’ two popular programs are “Read-to-a-Dog” and “Animal Assisted Therapy.” For children who are shy about reading aloud, the “Read-to-a-Dog” program provides a supportive environment to read to a friendly dog. It also offers families an opportunity to be introduced to dogs. OHS’ therapy animal teams visit senior care facilities, schools, libraries and other locations for animal assisted interventions that have proven positive effects on emotional and physical well-being. Their latest program, Tri-City Shelter Assistance, actively supports and collaborates with the local animal shelter.
Other OHS services include providing information through email and phone. “Many of our requests are about injured and abandoned wildlife, but we deal with other queries too,” shared Morrison. They also provide kitten fostering and adoption programs, as well as financial assistance for spay and neuter. Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) is another service that includes neutering feral cats to stabilize their population without having to resort to euthanasia. “Pet meals on wheels,” which delivers pet food to drop points throughout the Tri-city for low income residents is another vital service offered by OHS.
COVID-19 has had a detrimental impact on OHS in many different ways. They rely on donations for monetary support and supplies. “It’s much harder to fundraise when we can’t attend any public events to get our name out there,” said Morrison. In response, OHS is taking their fundraisers online. OHS will be participating in Best Friends Animal Society’s virtual Strut your Mutt day, and Ducks for Bucks race organized by the Kiwanis club. More information about donating to OHS can be found at https://ohlonehumanesociety.org. They are also making efforts to enhance their social media presence and their website to streamline membership and donations.
OHS relies heavily on volunteers to carry out its mission and activities. “Our volunteers are amazing, I am always blown away by their dedication to an endless job,” added Morrison. To comply with COVID-19 regulations, their Wildlife Rehabilitation Center is practicing responsible social distancing, which has led to fewer volunteers to care for the wildlife that come to OHS. This has reduced their capacity to accept new rescued wildlife and the staff has to take on the extra load to make up. Their TNR and low cost spay-neuter programs, which were dependent on local veterinarians, have also been negatively affected due to closures. At the same time due to COVID-19 related restrictions in shelters, the need for kittens to find new homes is now greater than ever. The Animal Assisted Therapy teams and the Read-to-a-Dog programs have also been placed on hold due to COVID-19 related closures.
“OHS is feeling really stretched out thin in terms of resources, and would appreciate help through donations and volunteer work,” says Morrison. “We are always in need of donations. People have been incredibly generous, but donations have tapered as the shelter in place drags on,” she added. Their donation wish list can be found on their website at https://ohlonehumanesociety.org/lend-a-helping-paw. They are also looking for volunteers who can help them reach out to the community using social media and video conferencing. “People with a background in writing and public speaking can help us reach out to community groups and schools to share the mission and message of OHS,” Morrison added.
It is heartening to see OHS keep marching forward on its mission to bring comfort to sick, injured, and abandoned animals despite the hardships posed by the current pandemic. “Be kind whenever possible – It is always possible” by Dalai Lama is a thought that inspires Morrison, and we at Tri-City Voice hope the community will continue to support them in their pursuit to spread the message of care and kindness.
Ohlone Humane Society
39120 Argonaut Way, PMB 108, Fremont
(510) 792-4587
www.ohlonehumanesociety.org
Wildlife Rehab Center
7175 Hickory St., Newark
(510) 797-9449
Connect with OHS and Wildlife Rehab on Facebook and Instagram
Preserve Your Garden Produce
By Melinda Myers
Photos Courtesy of Gardener’s Supply Company
All your hard work is paying off with a bountiful harvest. Fresh produce is filling your garden, countertops, and refrigerator while the garden keeps producing more. Preserve some of your harvest to enjoy throughout the winter with some tried-and-true or updated variation of food preservation techniques.
Hanging bundles of herbs to dry is a long-time practice that works. Harvest herbs in the morning just after the dew has dried off the leaves. Rinse, dry, and remove any damaged or dried leaves. Gather the dry herbs into small bundles and secure with a rubber band. Use a spring-type clothespin to hang the bundles from a clothesline or hanger in a warm, dry, airy place out of direct sunlight. A modern twist on this tradition is the space-saving Stack!t Herb Drying Rack (gardeners.com) hung from the ceiling. You will be able to dry large quantities of herbs in any narrow, out-of-the-way space.
Extend the life, flavor, and nutritional value of squash with proper harvesting and storage. Only store blemish- and damage-free fruits and vegetables to reduce the risk of mold and decay developing during storage.
Harvest zucchini when the fruit is 6 to 8 inches long and scalloped squash when 3 to 6 inches in diameter. Store these in a plastic bag inside the vegetable crisper drawer in your refrigerator for several days. Wait to harvest winter squash when the fruit is full-sized, and the rinds are firm and glossy. The portion touching the ground turns from cream to orange when the fruit is ripe.
Use a pruner to harvest the fruit, leaving a one-inch stem on each fruit. Cure all winter squash, except for acorn, in a warm, humid location. Then move to a cool, dry, well-ventilated area to store for several months. In the past, gardeners stored these, potatoes, onions, and fruit in wooden racks that maximized storage space and allowed air to reach each layer of produce. An updated version, Gardener’s Supply Orchard Rack, adds convenient drawers to this traditional storage system. Boost your cabbage harvest with this trick. Remove firm full-sized heads but leave the lower ring of leaves and roots intact. The plant will form several smaller heads.
Harvest cucumbers based on how you plan to use them. Pick the fruit when it is 1 ½ to 2 ½ inches long if you plan on making sweet pickles. Allow the cucumbers to grow a bit bigger, three to four inches, if dill pickles are on the menu. Harvest those for slicing when the skin is firm, bright green and the fruit is six to nine inches long.
Turn a portion of your harvest into something delicious. Fermentation is a relatively easy preservation technique used for thousands of years. Preserve some of your cucumbers as pickles, cabbage as sauerkraut, and berries as preserves with fermentation. Store fermented fruits and vegetables in a cool, dark place or extend their shelf life by canning the finished product. For most projects, you just need the fruit or vegetables, water, salt, and spices. The desired ingredients are placed in a covered vessel, such as Gardener’s Supply 3-gallon Fermentation Crock. Weights are used to keep the fruit and vegetables submerged in water throughout the fermentation process.
If your garden is still producing when frost is in the forecast, extend the harvest season. Cold frames and cloches are tried-and-true techniques used for extending the growing season. A modern method employs floating row covers. These spun fabrics allow air, light, and water through while protecting plants from frosty conditions. Cover the plantings and anchor the fabric in place. Lift to harvest and enjoy several more weeks and even months of garden-fresh produce.
Select the storage and preservation methods that work best for your garden produce, growing location, and lifestyle. Once you enjoy homegrown produce in winter meals, you will start growing more produce to eat fresh, share and preserve.
Melinda Myers is the author of numerous gardening books, including Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” DVD series and the Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio segments. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Gardeners Supply for her expertise to write this article. Her web site is www.MelindaMyers.com.
Real Estate Notebook
Real Estate Seasons Part II: Home Sellers
By David Stark
Public Affairs Director, Bay East Association of REALTORS®
Real estate is seasonal; the COVID-19 pandemic has created a new season for home sellers.
The last six months of shelter-in-place changed seller behavior in surprising ways. “It’s been challenging for sellers because of COVID-19,” said June Burckhardt, 2020 President of the Tri-Cities Marketing Council (TCMC). This group meets weekly in Fremont (virtually) and brings together real estate professionals working in the area.
Burckhardt said, “At first, if the seller was living in their home, they couldn’t show it. When they could show it, there was fear among buyers because of COVID-19.”
The Alameda County Health Department initially banned traditional open houses and other in-person property visits. When they did allow potential buyers to visit properties with their agents, it was under a new set of strict rules. Burckhardt explained that buyers’ agents following safety protocols has made sellers more comfortable opening their homes to prospective buyers.
However, creating and learning the new rules delayed the home selling season by several weeks.
Meanwhile, the demand for home ownership, even during a pandemic, continued to build while mortgage interest rates were falling.
“Buyers, when they came back, came back with a vengeance,” Burckhardt said. She explained that lots of buyers returned to the market and brought competitive offers with them. “The buyers came back, and they were ready.”
Sellers quickly shifted from being wary of buyers to being ready to do business. Burckhardt said, “Because of limited inventory, we went from dead-in-the-water to a very, very competitive market with multiple offers and an over-asking environment almost immediately.”
She said this is a different “sellers’ market” from previous low-supply/high-demand environments. “I find that the sellers are not in the demand mindset that they want a certain price and they’re going to get it. I am sensing more negotiations from sellers right now than previously. Maybe because we are in such a challenging time. There’s a little more sensitivity.”
Because of the later start, the real estate busy season is pushing later into the fall.
Burckhardt said she monitors the number of homes for sale on a weekly basis and has noticed an unseasonable drop in homes on the market. “I believe that has a direct correlation with the fact that kids didn’t go off to school; mom and dad are working from home, and it looks quite different to a seller right now. We’re seeing a bit of a slowdown right now.”
The next three months would typically mean a quiet time for residential real estate. Just as the previous six months have been different real estate, so will the rest of 2020. “I think we’re going to see homes coming on the market. It is a unique year, and we’ve kind of done a reversal. As folks figure out the balance of working from home, they are going to start looking. I expect the final quarter of the year to be busier than typical.”
San Leandro City Council
July 20, 2020
Announcements:
• Mayor Cutter announced that the city would be taking no legal action in the Steven Taylor shooting until the third-party investigation is complete.
Recognitions:
• Proclamation declaring the week of September 17-23, 2020 as Constitution Week.
• Proclamation declaring the month of September 2020 as National Preparedness Month.
Public Comments:
• Many residents asked the city council to fire Officer Fletcher and Officer Overton, the two officers involved in the Steven Taylor shooting.
• Many residents implored the council to be more committed to protecting and supporting black lives in San Leandro as well as in seeking justice for Stephen Taylor.
• Residents spoke about the need for more aggressive climate policy in light of the wildfires.
• Residents asked the city council to reach out to Steven Taylor’s family.
Presentations:
• Updates by the Alameda County Registrar of Voters on the November 3, 2020 election.
• Report on the library resources for remote student learning.
o Resident asked how the library tracks users and promotes teen engagement.
o Several residents commented on how students from San Leandro’s Social Justice Academy should have had more time during the initial public comment period to speak.
Public Hearings:
• Resolution of the city approving a general plan map amendment, planned development and site plan review, vesting tentative tract map with seven lettered lots on a 2.3-acre parcel and zoning map amendment for a planned development for 903 Manor Boulevard.
o Several residents spoke in support of the Manor development and more housing in general.
o Many residents opposed the project due to aesthetic and density issues, parking, and privacy. They urged the council to suspend vote.
Item passed: 5-2; Lopez: Nay, Aguilar: Nay.
Consent Calendar:
• Resolution to approve a consulting services agreement with Ethosoft, Inc. for the installation and configuration of a laboratory information management system.
• Authorize the city manager to execute agreements with the California Department of Transportation to receive grant funding from the fiscal year 2020-2021 Sustainable Transportation Planning Grant Program for the crosstown class IV corridors study.
• Resolution to purchase one Cimline Crack-Sealer from Cimline Pavement Maintenance Group.
• Resolution accepting the City Council investment report for the quarter ended June 30, 2020
• Extend ratification of a proclamation of local emergency and state of emergency by the city’s Director of Emergency Services because of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Items Removed from Consent Calendar:
• Resolution of the city to increase the construction contract change order cap authorization from 25% to 90% with Pacific Underground Services and to approve an individual change order of 53% of the original construction contract amount for the Heron Bay Levee Maintenance Project.
o Item passed: 6-0; Lee, recused.
• Resolution of the city to accept grant funds of $8,700 from the American Association of Retired People for the virtual design charrette of a proposed community garden by Bancroft Middle School and appropriation approval of grant funds to account 150-18-102-5890.
o Item passed: 7-0
• Approve a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Hayward to provide dispatch and concierge services to FLEX RIDES on demand members for the period of July 1, 2019 through September 30, 2020.
o Item passed:7-0
• Ordinance of the city to add Chapter 6-10 to Title 6 of the San Leandro Municipal Code relating to standing or sitting on traffic medians or near curbs.
o Several residents spoke about how this ordinance could further criminalize unhoused people stopped in medians and on sidewalks.
o Item tabled to later meeting: 7-0
• Resolution of the city council condemning white supremacy and white supremacist hate groups, declaring support for designating the Ku Klux Klan as a domestic terrorist organization, and reaffirming the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
o Item passed: 7-0
Action Items:
• Resolution designating the voting delegate and alternate(s) for the League of California Cities 2020 Annual Conference.
o Items passed: 7-0
Report on Closed Session Actions Taken:
• Item 3B yielded a settlement to pay the claimant $105,000.
Reports:
• Councilmember Lopez attended the East Bay League of Cities meeting where a new board was voted in unanimously.
• Councilmember Aguilar attended the Alameda County Mosquito Abatement meeting where they reported that there was no West Nile virus detected in the county.
• Mayor Cutter attended the East Bay Discharger Authority meeting where a contract agreement was drawn up with a lab to test effluent for signs of COVID-19.
Councilmember Requests to Schedule Agenda Items
• Councilmember Ballew wanted to send an item to rules committee to look into renaming the police building the Robert McGuiness police building. Motion passed: 7-0
• Councilmember Lopez sought council support for Prop 15 via a resolution in an upcoming council meeting.
Motion passed: 7-0
*Meeting adjourned with a moment of silence in the memory of San Leandro resident Charles Gilcrest and former resident Paul Friedman.
Mayor Pauline Russo Cutter Aye
Vice Mayor Pete Ballew Aye
Victor Aguilar, Jr. Aye, 1 Nay
Ed Hernandez Aye
Benny Lee Aye, 1 Recusal
Deborah Cox Aye
Corina Lopez Aye, 1 Nay
Sequoia National Park closed due to California wildfire
AP Wire Service
SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. (AP), Sep 17 – California's Sequoia National Park has been fully closed due to a nearby wildfire in the Sierra Nevada wilderness.
The action this week came after the park headquarters and the community of Three Rivers at the park's southern entrance were put on evacuation notice, according to a statement.
“To ensure any pending evacuation goes as smoothly as possible we are closing the park to visitors,” Acting Superintendent Lee Taylor said.
Campground reservations are being canceled and refunded.
Sequoia National Park, home to its giant namesake trees, is threatened by the Castle Fire, part of the SQF Complex of fires ignited by lightning in the Sierra National Forest.
Burning since Aug. 19, the complex has scorched nearly 192 square miles (497 square kilometers) of forest and was just 12% contained on Thursday. The fire has destroyed 150 structures and threatens more than 3,400 others.
Kings Canyon National Park, immediately to the north of Sequoia, remains open.
Social Security Matters
Ask Rusty – Can I Help My Friend with His Social Security?
By Certified Social Security Advisor Russell Gloor
Association of Mature American Citizens
Dear Rusty: I am trying to help a good friend of mine who lives in Indiana and is 80 years old. I am very concerned as he’s not now collecting Social Security (SS) for some reason, and I have no idea why. Is there any reason that you know of that would keep him from getting his benefits? Is there maybe something he might have done to keep him from getting his money? He worked his whole life, is a retired electrician and was a long-time member of the Electricians’ Union. I'm not sure if he knows how to apply for his benefits, but he's having a hard time making ends meet and could definitely use the extra money. He told me that an organization has offered to help him, but it will cost $7,500 and there is no guarantee they can get it for him. He can't afford to pay that kind of money only to be told there is nothing they can do for him. I'm hoping you can give me some insight. Signed: Faithful Friend
Dear Faithful Friend: If your friend has, as you say, worked and contributed to Social Security via FICA payroll taxes all his life, then he should be eligible to collect Social Security benefits. It only takes 40 quarters of credit (about 10 years of earnings) to be eligible for SS, so he should certainly be eligible if he paid SS FICA taxes for enough years.
Are there reasons why he might not be collecting? Sure, but they’re not common, and here are a few:
• Indiana is one of 26 states where some state employees don’t participate in the Federal Social Security program. If your friend was a state employee for his whole life he may not have contributed to SS, so he may not have the requisite 40 credits needed to collect Social Security.
• Social Security benefits are generally exempt from garnishing, except for certain types of situations. Any U.S. government agency (such as the IRS if he owes back taxes) can garnish his SS benefit if he owes them money. His SS can also be garnished for unpaid alimony or child support. But usually such garnishment means only reducing his SS benefit, not completely eliminating it.
• If he were collecting Social Security at one time, but SS later found that he had been overpaid for any reason, they could withhold his benefits until they recovered the overpayment. Sometimes, the actions of someone else (e.g., a former spouse) can cause him to be liable for an overpayment, but SS would have sent him a letter informing him of the overpayment and giving him an opportunity to appeal it. In any case, SS would only withhold benefits until the overpayment was fully recovered.
• Social Security benefits are not automatically awarded. If your friend simply neglected to apply for benefits when he was eligible, SS wouldn’t sign him up automatically, regardless of his age. He will simply not get benefits unless he applies for them.
Your friend shouldn’t pay anyone to find out if he’s eligible for Social Security benefits. The answer is simply a phone call away by contacting the Social Security Administration, either at the national number (1.800.772.1213) or by contacting his local SS office (the local contact information is at www.ssa.gov/locator). Generally, this type of transaction can be accomplished over the phone. He should call Social Security and tell them he wishes to apply for “Social Security Retirement Benefits.” Once they have his Social Security Number they can tell immediately if he is eligible for benefits and, if he is, he should ask for six months retroactive benefits (SS will pay up to six months retroactively).
If your friend cannot, for any reason, contact Social Security himself to discuss his situation, he can appoint someone (such as you) to represent him in these matters. Here is a link to Social Security’s rules on having someone represent him: www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10075.pdf. You are, indeed, a good and faithful friend.
This article is intended for information purposes only and does not represent legal or financial guidance. It presents the opinions and interpretations of the AMAC Foundation's staff, trained and accredited by the National Social Security Association (NSSA). NSSA and the AMAC Foundation and its staff are not affiliated with or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any other governmental entity. To submit a question, visit our website (amacfoundation.org/programs/social-security-advisory) or email us at ssadvisor@amacfoundation.org.
Union City Police Log
Submitted by Union City PD
Sunday, September 13
• At about 5:57 p.m. Officers Jesenia Chavez and Dan DeJong were patrolling the area of Whipple Road and Hayman Street when they saw a vehicle with an equipment violation and made a traffic stop. While talking with the driver they spotted the handle of a loaded handgun wedged in between the driver seat and the center console. The driver was arrested and faces charges of possessing a loaded firearm.
Union Sanitary District
September 14, 2020
The USD Board approved the following at its regular Sept. 14, 2020 board meeting:
• Appointment of representatives Tom Handley and Jennifer Toy (with Anjali Lathi as backup) to an ad hoc subcommittee on the general manager’s contract negotiations.
• A resolution to accept sanitary sewer easements for Sanctuary Village 1 and Sanctuary Village 3 (southwest corner of Cherry Street and Stevenson Boulevard, in Newark).
• An Electronic Signature Policy option for agreements, letters, permits, and other internal or contractual records. The Electronic Signature Policy will increase efficiency, especially in light of the COVID-19 emergency, by taking advantage of technological advances in document management and state laws that allow for use of electronic signatures.
• A resolution directing staff to negotiate an acceptable supply agreement in the best interests of the District with the apparent low bidder, Cummins Sales and Service, and if an acceptable agreement cannot be obtained, the third apparent low bidder, Peterson Power Systems, Inc.
The Board also heard several informational reports:
• Progress summary toward the District’s strategic objectives and safety measures for the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2020 (April 1, 2020- June 31, 2020). Safety of employees continues to be a District priority with a focus on the evolving response to the pandemic.
• Status of Priority 1 Capital Improvement Program Projects.
• Fourth quarter report on the Capital Improvement Program for fiscal year 2020.
• Report on the East Bay Dischargers Authority (EBDA) meeting of August 20, 2020.
Tom Handley, President Aye
Pat Kite, Vice President Aye
Anjali Lathi, Secretary Aye
Manny Fernandez, Director Aye
Jennifer Toy, Director Aye