[et_pb_section bb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.0.47″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_image src=”http://tricityvoice.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/TCV-Search.png” align=”center” force_fullwidth=”on” align_tablet=”center” align_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”3.23.3″ animation_style=”fade” box_shadow_style=”preset3″ /][et_pb_divider divider_weight=”4″ _builder_version=”3.14″ height=”0px” /][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.1″ z_index_tablet=”500″ hover_enabled=”0″ text_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” link_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” link_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ul_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” ol_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” quote_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length_tablet=”0px” header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength_tablet=”1px” box_shadow_horizontal_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_vertical_tablet=”0px” box_shadow_blur_tablet=”40px” box_shadow_spread_tablet=”0px” text_text_shadow_horizontal_length=”text_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ text_text_shadow_vertical_length=”text_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ text_text_shadow_blur_strength=”text_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ link_text_shadow_horizontal_length=”link_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ link_text_shadow_vertical_length=”link_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ link_text_shadow_blur_strength=”link_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ ul_text_shadow_horizontal_length=”ul_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ ul_text_shadow_vertical_length=”ul_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ ul_text_shadow_blur_strength=”ul_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ ol_text_shadow_horizontal_length=”ol_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ ol_text_shadow_vertical_length=”ol_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ ol_text_shadow_blur_strength=”ol_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ quote_text_shadow_horizontal_length=”quote_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ quote_text_shadow_vertical_length=”quote_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ quote_text_shadow_blur_strength=”quote_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_text_shadow_horizontal_length=”header_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_text_shadow_vertical_length=”header_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_text_shadow_blur_strength=”header_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_2_text_shadow_horizontal_length=”header_2_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_2_text_shadow_vertical_length=”header_2_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_2_text_shadow_blur_strength=”header_2_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_3_text_shadow_horizontal_length=”header_3_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_3_text_shadow_vertical_length=”header_3_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_3_text_shadow_blur_strength=”header_3_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_4_text_shadow_horizontal_length=”header_4_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_4_text_shadow_vertical_length=”header_4_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_4_text_shadow_blur_strength=”header_4_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_5_text_shadow_horizontal_length=”header_5_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_5_text_shadow_vertical_length=”header_5_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_5_text_shadow_blur_strength=”header_5_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_6_text_shadow_horizontal_length=”header_6_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_6_text_shadow_vertical_length=”header_6_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ header_6_text_shadow_blur_strength=”header_6_text_shadow_style,%91object Object%93″ vertical_offset_tablet=”0″ horizontal_offset_tablet=”0″]
Online breakfast fundraiser highlights success stories
Submitted by Chris De Benedetti
In a year unlike any other, Abode Services took a different approach on Friday, March 5 for its 16th annual Journey Home Breakfast by moving its annual fundraiser online. Proceeds from the event help Abode further its mission of ending homelessness in Alameda, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Santa Cruz and Napa counties. More than 10,530 individuals are served each year.
This year’s nearly 30-minute program — titled the Journey Home Breakfast “At Home” — can be seen online at YouTube.com/AbodeServicesVideo or on the Abode website at journeyhome.abodeservices.org.
The event presented several stories, including a video featuring a family with a newborn baby who have transformed their lives with Abode’s help, making the journey from homelessness into a home. Another video included Kate Dettmer of Abode Services and Abode Board President Ken Smith, who discussed how the nonprofit organization quickly responded last year during the early days of the pandemic. Another segment featured East Bay singer Netta Brielle, who delivered an excellent performance of “Push” — her heartfelt song about overcoming adversity.
Bay Area businesswoman Thuy Fontelera shared her personal childhood story, explaining that she connects with Abode’s mission of ending homelessness because of her family’s struggles decades ago when tragedy struck their household. Meanwhile, Louis Chicoine, Abode’s longtime chief executive officer, hosted the event and appeared in a separate video, sharing his vision for the organization’s future.
Donations can still be made online at journeyhome.abodeservices.org. Also, thanks to an anonymous donor, all donations for the program will be matched up to $100,000. For questions about donating or more information about Abode Services, email Development Officer Carol Arata at [email protected].
Sponsors for The Journey Home Breakfast “At Home” were:
• Fremont Bank
• BBI Construction
• Cahill Contractors
• Marx/Okubo Associates, Inc.
• Alameda Alliance for Health
• BKF Engineers
• Blach Construction Company
• Washington Hospital Healthcare System
• Bernard, Balgley & Bonaccorsi LLP
• GLO Architecture
• Gonsalves & Kozachenko Attorneys at Law
• Hayward-Tri-City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
• Heritage Bank of Commerce
• HKIT Architects
• Indo-Americans for Better Community
• Pyatok Architecture & Urban Design
• Republic Services
Alameda County Fire Department Log
Submitted by ACFD
Monday, March 1
• At 10:33 p.m. firefighters responded to reports of smoke coming from the area of Aladdin Avenue and Alvarado Street in San Leandro. Crews located a hopper on the outside of the building that was smoking and knocked down the small fire. There were no injuries reported.
Ambassadors of Compassion Story Writing Contest
Submitted by Karin Conn
Palo Alto Humane Society invites 7th and 8th grade students in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties to become Ambassadors of Compassion by writing a fiction or nonfiction story on the theme of animals and people helping each other. There are many ways that animals help people such as companionship, therapy and healing, safety and rescue, support for soldiers, and helping on the farm, and people help animals in return. Stories submitted should illustrate a sense of kindness in their characters.
The winning author will receive a prize of $500 and two runners-up will receive $200 each. The winning stories will be published by Palo Alto Humane Society (PAHS). They will join PAHS’ library of stories about animals and kindness and will be a highlight of PAHS’ 2021 Creating Compassionate Communities campaign.
The contest is open to students in schools located in the counties of Santa Clara and San Mateo. Stories must be original and between 800 and 1,000 words, and they must be submitted by midnight on May 31, 2021. Competition guidelines and a submission form may be found at https://www.paloaltohumane.org/humane-news/palo-alto-humane-society-announces-2021-story-writing-competition.
The contest is now in its third year. Vandana Ravi’s winning story in 2019 was about a lonely girl who came across a donkey who also needed a friend. Her story along with factual information about donkeys around the world was turned into an original PAHS book, Snapshot, which is being sold on Amazon. The winning story for the 2020 contest was “The Sun,” written by Aaron Huang. It depicts the life of a mother dog trapped in a puppy mill from the dog’s point of view. It is a timely piece, especially now during the pandemic when people seeking animal companionship have emptied shelters and rescue organizations and puppy mills are again on the rise.
Ambassadors of Compassion Story Writing Contest
Deadline: May 31, 2021
www.paloaltohumane.org
http://bit.ly/37axsu8
Photos in 1 new Sharon
Artists’ solo show to run online through March
Submitted by ART, Inc.
A.R.T., Inc’s online show “Six Members’ Solo Exhibition” will run through March 31, 2021. To view the pieces and purchase prints, and learn more about participating artists, go to https://www.artinc.org/. Artists participating in the exhibition are: Elinor Cheung, Patricia Doyne, Bob Icenogle, Ann Maloney-Mason, Wenonah Washington, and Catherine Win.
A.R.T., Inc.’s other show, “New Beginnings” will be up on the website through April 30, 2021. Starting in April, community members will be able to submit to the upcoming online juried exhibit: “For Art’s Sake.” Submission is free for A.R.T., Inc. members; non-members pay $15.
Six Members’ Solo Exhibition
Online through March 31
Ford Mustang Mach-E
By Steve Schaefer
Ford Mustang Mach-E is one of the most intriguing and important auto debuts in years. As an all-electric SUV, it points the way to the future while intimately linking to Ford’s most iconic brand.
The original Ford Mustang was an exciting, affordable sport coupe and convertible that was the perfect car at the right time. Hundreds of thousands were sold the first year, creating the “pony car” segment.
Mustang Mach-E is different. It has four doors, for one thing. While its length and width are comparable to the regular Mustang, it stands nearly 10 inches taller, and boasts 101 cubic feet (cf) of interior volume versus 83 cf for the coupe. Surely there were prolonged and heated discussions in the Ford boardroom about “diluting the brand” but I believe that in the end, they decided to spend a little of their amassed brand equity to bless this car with everything they could muster to make it successful.
Mustang styling cues include a long and curvaceous hood, muscular sides with rear haunches, a face with piercing eyes and those unique tri-bar taillights. The running horse logo is on the nose and tail, inside on the graphics and screens, and even as puddle lamps.
The sporty bucket seats are covered in animal-free “Activex.” You sit in a typical high crossover position. Legroom front and rear is generous, and headroom is amazing. There is nearly 60 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and almost 30 cf with them up.
The Mach-E’s motor puts out 346 horsepower (428 lb.-ft. of torque) in the standard form and 480 hp (634 lb.-ft.) for the upcoming GT version, due this summer. With instant electric torque and responsive steering through a fat leather-wrapped wheel, I had a blast on back roads as well as cruising through town. The heavy battery pack provides a low center of gravity for road-hugging stability.
The Mach-E gets 105 city, 93 highway, and 105 combined. It weighs between 4,400 and 4,900 pounds, depending on battery size and rear- or all-wheel drive configuration. The EPA Green scores are a pair of perfect 10’s for Smog and Greenhouse Gas.
Range wise, the rear-wheel-drive car with the standard 66 kWh lithium-ion battery gets 230 miles per the EPA. The 88-kWh extended range battery brings it up to 300 miles. With all-wheel drive those numbers drop to 211 and 270, respectively.
The liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack sits below the floor and between the axles in a waterproof case with crash absorption protection. That location, preferred for EVs, means interior volume is uncompromised. One of the benefits of EVs is the ability to use one-pedal driving. This means you press on the accelerator to go forward and lift off to slow down using regenerative braking. You can choose to disable it if you wish.
The Mustang’s interior blends Mustang cues with a modern, simplified design. A 15.5-inch vertical screen in the center of the dash houses the latest version of Ford’s SYNC system. You can tap a box for entertainment, information, navigation, and so on and it displays larger at the top of the screen. Ford promises over-the-air updates.
Unlike Tesla, the Mach-E provides a small instrument panel behind the steering wheel, with a digital speedometer and a long blue bar displaying battery range. There is also a tiny image of the car and a humorous “Easter egg” that says “Ground Speed” under the digital speedometer. The FordPass phone app lets you go without a key fob, unlocking, locking, and starting the car. It displays helpful info as well, including 13,500 charging locations.
Pricing starts at $42,895 for the Select. My test car, the next level Premium in Carbonized Gray Metallic Paint, had a base price of $47,000. With the optional extended range battery ($5,000) and $1,100 for destination and delivery, the sticker came to $53,100.
Certainly, the Mustang Mach-E’s big target is the Tesla Model Y. Both cars offer standard and performance editions and rear- or all-wheel drive and similar pricing. The cars are essentially the same size. The Model Y looks like other Teslas—pleasantly rounded, with a grilleless face and generic-looking taillamps. Its interior is spartan Danish Modern. The Mustang, however, is notably buffed on the outside and inside, feels more like the cars we know and love.
Mustang Mach-E’s most important role may be to entice folks who admire Teslas but love the look and feel of cars they have had before to try an EV. Ford offers more than a century of brand equity and a nationwide dealership network that Tesla cannot. We will need a lot more EV buyers as we leave fossil-fuel-burning cars in the dust over the next 10-15 years.
BART Police Log
Submitted by Les Mensinger and BART PD
Saturday, February 27
• At 4:32 p.m. a man identified by police as Alex Woods, 28, of Hayward was arrested at Hayward station on suspicion of grand theft and probation violation. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Sunday, February 28
• At 5:43 p.m. a man identified by police as Adam Kusarik, 28, of San Francisco was arrested at Bay Fair station in San Leandro on a $50,000 burglary warrant from Placer County. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Tuesday, March 2
• At 6:16 p.m. a man identified by police as Timothy Knockum, 54, of Oakland was arrested at Union City station on suspicion of violating a court order. He was booked into Fremont City Jail.
Wednesday, March 3
• At 1:19 p.m. a man identified by police as Arturo Rodriguez, 37, of Hayward was arrested at Union City station on suspicion of public intoxication and carrying a concealed dirk or dagger. He was booked into Santa Rita Jail.
Have a heart give a heart! Elementary school makes Valentine’s Day cards for seniors
By Ashley Tosh
Photos by ViAnna Anderson
ViAnna Anderson is a second and third grade teacher at Rose Elementary School in Milpitas. She is also founder of Bay Area Kids Care. This new organization’s motto is “Have a heart, give a heart!” and was “created to spread goodwill to people of different locations and generations so that there was a connection to help others feel less isolated and lonely during COVID-19.”
In early January of 2021, Anderson’s students told her that they felt isolated and depressed, and just wanted to be able to come back to school and see their friends. Soon after, she had a conversation with her friend Tammy Williams, Executive Nutrition Director for Valley InterCommunity Council (VIC) in the San Fernando Valley. They discussed how many of the seniors VIC delivers food to were also hit hard by the pandemic. Anderson thought, “There must be some way that we can get these two generations together,” and Bay Area Kids Care was born.
The next day, Anderson pitched the idea of having her students make seniors Valentine’s Day cards to her principal, who loved it and asked her to pitch it to the rest of the staff and Parent Teacher Organization. Within two days Anderson’s students agreed to participate, other teachers and their classes at Rose Elementary joined in, and the PTO advertised the idea to the rest of the community. A local girl scout troop asked to join the effort, and even a children’s choir director in St. Paul, Minnesota heard about the project and volunteered to help make and distribute cards in his area.
Families were encouraged to come to the school’s office and pick up a card-making kit. Inside were materials like cardstock paper, stickers, crayons, markers, and anything else they might need to create Valentine’s Day cards. Students were also given the option to create digital cards and send those to the seniors.
One student wrote, “Dear Valentine, Its been rough during the Corona, but I wanted to tell you that you are amazing. Never give up, and never change for someone you don’t know. You’re perfect, I love you.”
Another student said, “Dear Valentine, I am a third grader at Rose Elementary School. I would like to wish you a very happy Valentine’s Day. I hope you have a wonderful and exciting day. What are you planning to do on Valentine’s Day? Well I have not planned on what I’m going to do on Valentine’s Day but I may stay home and play games. I have a special Valentine’s joke for you. What did one raspberry say to the other on Valentine’s Day? I love you berry much! I hope you have a great Valentine’s Day!”
Once all of the finished cards had been delivered to the school office on January 27th, they were quarantined for two weeks before being distributed to the seniors to eliminate any possibility of spreading COVID-19.
Anderson, with the help of Williams, reached out to Meals on Wheels, distributors at Second Harvest Food Bank, nursing homes, memory care facilities, and several other senior programs, who all agreed to help distribute the cards. By the end of the project, 710 Valentine’s Day cards were distributed to six locations across the nation! “It really was like an uplift for the people that were involved throughout this whole project,” said Anderson.
Not only were students excited to make cards, but seniors were overjoyed to receive them and distributors felt lucky to deliver the loving messages. Many senior citizens across the nation have lost their spouses due to COVID-19, and others have not been able to see their grandchildren for over a year, so these cards truly brought a smile to their faces. Drivers for Meals on Wheels felt like they were getting a Valentine’s Day gift too because they got to hear the seniors’ reactions to the cards.
What’s next for Bay Area Kids Care? Anderson does not want this project to end. For now, she is trying to get 501c3 verification for Bay Area Kids Care to make it an official non-profit organization, and is planning another round of cards soon, this time Spring themed. “That’s exactly what this project is about, is putting a smile on people’s faces and letting them know that we are still out there. Just because they’re inside their home they’re not alone,” she said. She is also trying to put together a virtual student choir for summer to give students a way to socialize with each other during the pandemic. They will record songs together and share these recordings with communities online to spread more joy and connectedness.
“One person can spread kindness. And when we get together and we think of other people and we try to show them that they’re loved and wanted, it makes such a difference,” Anderson said.
Those interested in learning more about Bay Area Kids Care can go to their website, bayareakidscare.com.
The call is out for artists to share their works
Submitted by Olive Hyde Guild
The Olive Hyde Art Guild is soliciting artists for its Members Juried Show that will run July 8 through October 3. This show takes place every other year and combines two and three-dimensional art. In past years it has been held in person at the Olive Hyde Art Gallery, 123 Washington Blvd. in Fremont. Due to the coronavirus pandemic restrictions, this year’s show will be a three-month virtual exhibit sponsored by the gallery.
Submitted work may be in painting (oil, watercolor, acrylic), mixed media, photography, digital media (no video), ceramics, glass, sculpture, jewelry, fiber art, or works on paper. Judging for selection into the show will be done by the juror from digital images only. Awards will be decided by the juror and announced at the show opening. The deadline for entering is Tuesday, June 8.
The Juror for the 2021 Show is Marianne McGrath, who is an independent curator and holds a BA degree in Art and MA degree in Art History. After a successful decade with New Museum Los Gatos and The Museums of Los Gatos curating exhibits and presenting art and education programs, McGrath founded MKM Art Consulting, LLC.
Three monetary prizes will be awarded: Best of Show: $250; Second Place: $200 and Third Place: $150. Merit Award winners will receive ribbons, and a Peoples’ Choice ribbon will be voted online and announced at the opening reception.
For online entry to the Members Juried Show or to join the Olive Hyde Art Guild, visit the Olive Hyde Art Guild website at olivehydeartguild.org. For questions email [email protected].
Members Juried Show
Deadline to enter: Tuesday, Jun 8
olivehydeartguild.org
COVID TESTING SITES
If you have medical insurance, you should call your doctor/healthcare provider. If you do not have medical insurance, you can schedule an appointment at a Community Testing Site or Testing Event near you.
FREMONT
Bay Area Community Health
Pop-up clinics
Check website for pop-up testing sites in Fremont and Gilroy
Liberty Clinic
Appointments preferred, walk-ins welcome. Check calendar for availability
39500 Liberty St., Fremont
http://bach.health/covid/
(510) 770-8040
Asian Health Services
Sa: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Los Cerritos Community Center
3377 Alder Ave., Fremont
(510) 735-3222
NEWARK
Covid Clinic
Daily: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Drive through testing by appointment
2086 Newpark Mall, Newark
https://covidclinic.org/newark/
(877) 976-4251
CORE and Newark Wellness Center (Alameda Health System)
F-Sa: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Drive-Thru
6066 Civic Terrace Ave., Newark
https://covid-19.acgov.org/testing.page
(Scroll down to find Newark)
Bay Area Community Health
M: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Springhill Hotel Newark
6100 Newpark Mall, Newark
https://covid-19.acgov.org/testing.page
(Scroll down to find Newark)
HAYWARD
La Familia @ Cherryland Testing Center
M-F: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
20095 Mission Blvd., Hayward
www.lafamiliacounseling.org
https://avellinocov2.com/
(510) 571-9191
La Familia @ Skywest Golf Course
M-F: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Ages 12 and older
1401 Golf Course Rd., Hayward
www.lafamiliacounseling.org
https://bit.ly/3aBlVJC
(510) 583-5333
Glad Tidings Church
W-Sa: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Drive through and walk-up testing by appointment
1000 Glad Tidings Way, Hayward
https://ac.fulgentgenetics.com/
La Familia @ Eden United Church of Christ
Th: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
F: 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Sa: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
21455 Birch St., Hayward
https://avellinocov2.com/
(510) 571-9191
Covid Clinic
Daily: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Drive through testing by appointment
1 Southland Mall, Hayward
www.covidclinic.org
(877) 976-4251
SAN LEANDRO
San Leandro Marina Community Center
T-Sa: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
15301 Wicks Blvd., San Leandro
https://lhi.care/covidtesting
(888) 634-1123 (English & Spanish)
PLEASANTON
Alameda County Fairgrounds
M-F: 9 a.m. – 12 noon
Open through March 31
Drive-Through Testing
Alameda County Fairgrounds
Gate 12 off Valley Ave, Pleasanton
https://alamedacountyfair.com/events/covid-19-testing-site/
MILPITAS
Santa Clara Valley Medical Center (SCVMC) – Milpitas Library Parking Structure
M-F: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
160 N. Main Street, Milpitas
Appointments required. To schedule an appointment, call 1-888-334-1000
OptumServe at the Milpitas Community Center
Thursdays & Saturdays: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
457 E. Calaveras Blvd, Milpitas
Appointments can be made in English and Spanish by calling 1-888-634-1123 or visiting lhi.care/covidtesting. People who test at one of the OptumServe testing sites will receive their test results through the online portal within one week.
SAN JOSE
Monterey Clinic
Call to schedule an appointment
Mon-Fri: 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Sat: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
5504 Monterey Highway, San Jose
(408) 729-9700
Daylight Saving begins
Spring is here. It’s almost time to reset our clocks an hour forward. Time to get more sunshine. Most of the United States begins Daylight Saving Time (DST) at 2 a.m. local time on the second Sunday in March (March 14 in 2021). But why do we have to move our clocks forward and backward, and when did it all start?
The main purpose of DST is to make better use of daylight. The United States only began doing so toward the end of World War I to conserve energy. The House of Representatives voted 252-40 to pass a law “to save daylight,” with the official first daylight saving time taking place on March 15, 1918. Despite the public outcry, government officials enforced the time change until 1919, and allowed state and local governments to decide whether to continue the practice. It was reinstituted during World War II, but, again, after the war the decision fell to the states; California voters approved it in 1949.
Many think DST is not needed. Arizona (except for the Navaho, who do observe DST on tribal lands), and Hawaii do not observe it. California would like to do away with time changes completely. In 2018, voters passed State of California Proposition 7 – Daylight Saving Time, which repeals the 1949 voter-approved measure establishing a biannual clock change. Lawmakers would be able to choose permanent, year-round DST, if allowed by federal law. Unfortunately, the proposition did not receive the two-thirds vote required.
For now, clocks will keep changing in March and November. Whether we adopt a change in the future remains to be seen.
Daylight Saving
Sunday, Mar 14
2 a.m.
Planning and Designing A Productive Vegetable Garden
By Melinda Myers
Photos Courtesy of Gardener’s Supply Company
Whether planning your first, second, or tenth vegetable garden it can be overwhelming. There are so many tasty vegetables and never enough space and time to grow them all.
Start with a plan. Locate your garden in a sunny place with moist, well-drained soil. Save those partially sunny areas for greens like lettuce, chard, and kale as well as root crops like radishes and beets. These prefer full sun but will tolerate more shade than tomatoes, peppers, squash, broccoli, and other plants we eat the flowers and fruit of.
Review your favorite recipes and make a list of family favorites and those vegetables most often used. Then check the list to see which vegetables are suited to your climate and growing conditions and those that make the most economic sense to include in your garden.
Tomatoes and peppers produce lots of fruit from one plant and are common ingredients in many recipes. Sweet corn is fun to grow but needs lots of space for a relatively small harvest. If space is limited, consider buying your sweet corn at the farmers’ market and use that space to grow other edibles.
Every gardener struggles with determining how many of each type of vegetable to grow. This depends upon the productivity of the variety selected, your family’s eating habits and of course the impact of weather on the harvest. It is always better to start small, build on your successes and expand the garden in the future. Track your planting and harvesting results to help when planning future gardens.
You will need to plant more if you plan to preserve or donate a portion of your harvest. Purchasing vegetables from your local farmers’ market is a way to ensure you have sufficient fresh produce when you are ready to can, freeze and ferment.
Sound overwhelming? Consider enlisting help from Gardener’s Supply by using one of their vegetable garden plans – www.gardeners.com/kitchen-garden-planner/preplanned-gardens. You will find customized plans for those who like to cook; want to grow ingredients for a garden-fresh salad, salsa, or cocktail; or are following a Mediterranean diet. Many come with seed packets for all featured plants.
Maximize available space by growing vertically. Train pole beans, peas, tomatoes, cucumbers and even squash and melons up trellises. Growing vertically not only saves space, but also increases disease resistance by increasing light and airflow through the plants. And picking beans at waist height is much easier than harvesting from low-growing, bushy plants.
Increase space with containers. Consider growing some of your frequently used herbs and vegetables in pots on the patio, balcony, or deck for convenience. You can quickly grab what you need when creating your favorite meal.
Grow multiple plantings in each row. Start the season with cool season veggies like lettuce, peas, and radishes. Once the temperatures climb and these plants are harvested and enjoyed, replace them with warm weather vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, beans, cucumbers, squash, and melons. Finish off the season by filling any vacant rows with fall crops like greens, beets, and radishes.
Take some time to plan a garden that will provide you and your family with fresh produce you can enjoy all season long. Involving everyone in the planning process just might get them to show up and help weed.
Melinda Myers is the author of more than 20 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 program. 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 website is www.MelindaMyers.com.
Park It
By Ned MacKay
After a nationwide recruiting effort, East Bay Regional Park District’s Board of Directors has selected East Bay native Sabrina Landreth as the new general manager of the two-county public agency, effective March 15.
As the general manager, Landreth will be the park district’s top administrator, overseeing acquisition, management, and preservation of 73 parklands comprising nearly 125,000 acres of public lands throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties.
Landreth succeeds Robert Doyle, who retired at the end of 2020 after 47 years of service at the agency, including the last 10 as general manager. She is the first female and 10th general manager in the district’s 87-year history.
Landreth is well known in the East Bay. Most recently she served as city administrator for the City of Oakland, directing the day-to-day operations of 25 departments and 5,000 employees with a $1.7 billion budget. Previously she had worked as Emeryville city manager and as Oakland’s budget director, legislative analyst, and deputy city administrator.
As part of her duties, she has had extensive experience working with the California State Assembly and various state agencies. She has led creative and complex land use partnerships in the East Bay. Landreth has a Bachelor of Science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Master’s in public policy from UC Berkeley.
“I am honored to be appointed by the board as the district’s next general manager,” Landreth said. “I look forward to continuing to build upon the great work the district does to improve the quality of life for our East Bay community, while adhering to its social and environmental responsibilities.”
Along with other public agencies in the state, East Bay Regional Park District is experiencing a troubling onset of tree mortality and dieback, first noticed in October 2020. Trees most affected are eucalyptus, acacia, bay, and pine. The dieback has also been observed in the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District, Marin County, and San Diego.
Regional parks most impacted are Reinhardt Redwood in Oakland, Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley, and especially Anthony Chabot in Castro Valley, because of its extensive eucalyptus plantation. In total, some 1,500 acres are affected in the regional parks alone.
The cause is not fully understood but is believed to be due to recent droughts related to climate change. Because of the serious implications for fire protection, East Bay Regional Park District Fire and Stewardship departments are partnering with the United States Forest Service, UC Berkeley, and CAL FIRE resource management in Sacramento to study the causes. Fire Chief Aileen Theile is the park district’s lead on the project.
The district has created a Tree Mortality Taskforce including staff from the fire, stewardship, and operations departments. The taskforce is developing a plan to treat some of the affected areas in the regional parks. The group will coordinate with other jurisdictions in Contra Costa and Alameda counties where the dieback has also been detected.
Editorial
The Great Debate
From the founding of the United States of America, a crucial question of how and who should prevail in governance has continued to permeate all levels of society. The founders of our democratic republic wrestled with this question when attempting to differentiate a new nation from others ruled by fiat of a despot, whether oppressive or benevolent. States of the union then (and now) were not equal in size or economic power, yet there was fear that relinquishing too much authority to a federal system would result in a different, political, type of inequity.
The primary problem of democratic rule was possible (and probable) tyranny of the majority and the result if hard and uncompromising factions arose in opposition. If distinct and separate branches of government – executive, legislative, judicial – are compromised, the case for such a system is weakened. This difficulty is prominently displayed currently at the national level.
Dividing government into distinct branches with specific and definitive powers was considered a solution to the vexing problem of autocrats and dictatorships. It was reasonable to assume that by diluting power of any one branch of government, a fair balance between majority and minority interests would be maintained. Some of the same patterns of control can be seen at state and even local levels as well. The question remains, however, of how lines of authority are drawn and what to do when they are breached. When does an issue transcend local politics and become the purview of a broader authority?
At the local and state level, governments are trying to determine how housing can be made available to all residents. In a Bay Area environment of high property values and incessant demand, prices skyrocket leaving many behind. In response, local authorities have tried to address the problem with limited success. State and regional governments have stepped into the breech with a formulaic approach that assigns housing goals and regulations based on land availability, building codes, population and a series of assumptions such as proximity of transportation hubs. Local government has been restricted in many instances, serving as a bystander who, while occupying the land, has seen its authority usurped.
A slew of bills from California’s legislative branch has either been approved or in process of passage. While welcome as attempts to stem the tide of homelessness and lack of affordable (whatever that means) housing, it also drains the strength of local government. Where does the balance lie between local, regional, state and federal jurisdiction? Complicated by the pandemic and shifting economic, housing and traffic patterns, it may be time to consider alternatives without resorting to established paradigms of a pre-pandemic society.
For example, Fremont’s Vision Zero modifications of traffic and mobility issues has significantly altered the streetscape and safety of motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians. Much of this has been done at the local level with comprehensive study of novel ideas and the assistance – not control – of other governmental jurisdictions. It may be time for our local governments to use this as a template for an examination of affordable housing solutions outside state mandates.
Note:
Tri-City Voice publisher William Marshak received his second vaccination to protect against COVID-19 with the help of vaccinator Carmen at Washington Hospital on March 8. After receiving the treatment, Marshak said, “I urge everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Together, we can beat this virus!”
Earn and Learn pilot program
Submitted by Brooklyn Loiselle
On March 5, 2021 the City of Fremont Economic Development Department announced the Earn and Learn Fremont (ELF) Pilot Program that provides participants affected by COVID-19 layoffs the opportunity to jumpstart a new career in advanced manufacturing. Participants will receive paid work experience at Fremont-based medical device company Evolve Manufacturing Technologies, Inc. and an industry-recognized Certificate of Competency after completion of a short-term, customized occupational skills training program developed by Ohlone College.
Local workforce development boards, Alameda County Workforce Development Board (ACWDB) and work2future, are providing federal funding and offering case management and supportive services for participants. The City of Fremont Human Services Department’s Family Resource Center has marketed the program to eligible participants and will look for opportunities to provide wrap-around services to help their clients make a career shift. Additionally, Ohlone College Tri-Cities Career Center provided marketing and coordination around job-seeker recruitment.
The ELF Pilot Program bridges Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)-eligible adult job seekers who have been impacted by COVID-19 with manufacturers who need local, skilled talent. The initial pilot program will include 25 participants receiving eight weeks of paid work experience at Evolve Manufacturing and six weeks of concurrent virtual skills development training via Ohlone College’s Smart Manufacturing Technology Program. Those participating will have access to laptops for the duration of the program to ensure that technology needs are not a deterrent.
“With this first-of-its-kind pilot program, Fremont is developing a concerted and sustainable strategy to build a much-needed skilled talent pipeline for the advanced manufacturing sector while helping low-income workers who have been economically impacted by COVID-19 quickly pivot to a stable, promising new career,” Fremont Mayor Lily Mei said. “We are excited about the long-term impact this program will make in this first cohort’s lives and hope to expand this program in the future.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused massive layoffs in the hospitality, travel, retail trade, and transportation industries, resulting in high unemployment rates especially in minority groups such as people of color, women, and low-income families.
In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Employment of low-wage workers (those earning less than $30,000 a year) is 14% below pre-crisis levels according to researchers at the New York Fed. In November and December 2020 alone, the San Francisco Bay Area lost 20,900 jobs in hotels and restaurants according to the State of California Employment Development Department.
At the same time, advanced industries continue to bring thousands of middle-income jobs to parts of Silicon Valley (including to Fremont’s over 900 manufacturing companies). Many of these new jobs have been created to support biomedical manufacturers who have ramped up their operations in the past year to join the fight against COVID-19.
Upon successful completion of the program, participants may be offered a full-time job at Evolve Manufacturing or will be able to transfer the skills they learned to another company. If participants choose to continue their education at Ohlone College, they will also be able to apply the three credits earned through the ELF Pilot Program toward the Smart Manufacturing Technology Program.
Employers who would like to learn more about the ELF Pilot Program and other Economic Development programs can email [email protected]. To learn more about Fremont Family Resource Center, please visit https://www.fremont.gov/228/Family-Resource-Center.
Swalwell amendments to improve election security and student access to polls
Submitted by Edelstein, Natalie
Recently, Rep. Eric Swalwell (CA-15) joined House Democrats in passing H.R. 1 – For The People Act – a sweeping anti-corruption package to clean up Washington, protect and expand voting rights, restore integrity to the government, and put the needs and priorities of the American people ahead of special interests. Included in H.R. 1 are three Swalwell amendments adopted by the House that bolster election security and improve students’ access to the polls.
The For The People Act is the most comprehensive democracy reform legislation in more than four decades. Swalwell’s election security amendment directly addresses some of the deceptive tactics used in the last election to mislead voters. It clarifies that individuals operating fake polling places or drop boxes are in violation of the underlying bill’s provision which makes it a crime to interfere with or prevent another person from registering to vote.
His other amendments put Congress on record opposing efforts to intimidate or engage in deceptive practices to dissuade students from exercising their right to vote in their college towns and require schools to make voting information more accessible to students online and through social media.
Key provisions of the For the People Act include:
• Expanding automatic voter registration and same day registration
• Strengthening vote by mail, early voting, and ballot access
• Combating voter intimidation and voter suppression
• Protecting elections from foreign interference
• Fixing partisan gerrymandering
• Promoting digital ad transparency
• Forcing disclosure of dark money
• Reining in lobbyist influence
• Enforcing ethics and conflict of interest rules for all government officials
“Republican efforts in state houses across America to limit access to the polls underscores the fragility of our democracy,” said Swalwell. “That’s why I was proud to vote yes on H.R. 1 last night.”
For details, visit https://swalwell.house.gov/ – under “Newsroom” and “Press Releases.”
Attend town hall city budget overview
Submitted by City of Fremont
Fremont Mayor Lily Mei is hosting a virtual Town Hall City Budget Overview on Tuesday, March 30. A presentation will be given by Finance Director David Persselin.
Community members will have an opportunity to learn more about Fremont’s budget process and status, and get their budget questions answered directly. To participate in the virtual meeting manually enter in the Zoom ID: 922 2678 9593 or visit https://zoom.us/j/92226789593#success to be redirected.
Budget Review Virtual Meeting
Tuesday, Mar 30
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Zoom ID: 922 2678 9593
https://zoom.us/j/92226789593#success
Spring and summer camps for kids
Submitted by City of Fremont
Get ready for a fun and safe adventure this spring and summer with the City of Fremont. The Recreation Services Division is offering Spring & Summer Camps for the 2021 season.
In-person and virtual programs will be offered with one-week and two-week options with multiple locations and themes. Camps take place in Fremont and run April 5 to April 9 (spring break) and June 14 to August 20 (summer).
New to this year, early-bird discounts and payment plans are offered for summer camps to individuals that register before April 15. Use the discount codes at checkout ($25CAMPS2021 or $50CAMPS2021) to save $25 per week on select summer camps.
Registration for spring camps is underway; summer camp registration begins March 15. For more details including early-bird discounts, payment plans, and COVID-19 safety plans, visit www.fremont.gov/Camps or call (510) 494-4300.
Spring Break Camps
Apr 5 – Apr 9
Registration ongoing
Summer Camps
Jun 14 – Aug 20
Registration begins Mar 15
Discount: $25CAMPS2021 or $50CAMPS2021 (if registered before Apr 15)
(510) 494-4300
www.fremont.gov/Camps
Fremont Police Log
Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont PD
Tuesday, March 2
• At 4:40 p.m. patrol officers responded to a report of a shooting in the 4100 block of Broadmoor Common in the Irvington area. Upon arrival officers determined that no one was injured, but they interviewed witnesses and canvassed the area for evidence. Detectives later took over the investigation.
Wednesday, March 3
• At 10:50 a.m. patrol officers responded to a report of a shooting with one person injured in the 5700 block of Lemke Place near Farwell Drive. The person was taken to a trauma center with major injuries. Several people were detained and detectives were called to assist in the investigation. Meanwhile, officers surrounded a residence in the 43000 block of Ellsworth Street near Washington Boulevard where they believed someone associated with the shooting might be inside. After several hours, SWAT team members cleared the residence and arrested a 15-year-old juvenile. The suspect was booked on attempted murder and firearms possession charges. Detectives are continuing the investigation.
Fremont City Council
March 2, 2021
Consent Calendar:
• Approve pavement repair on Grimmer Boulevard between Fremont Boulevard and Old Warm Springs Boulevard in an amount not-to-exceed $350,000.
• Consider recommended public artwork for Downtown Event Center and Plaza. Execute contract for an amount not-to-exceed $172,000.
• Approve Development Impact annual and five-year report for period ending June 30, 2020.
Public Communications:
• Opportunities to pull items from consent calendar limited by technology.
• Train connections and stations in Fremont.
Items removed from Consent Calendar:
• Execute a Three-Year Agreement with Peregrine Technologies for real time data visualization in the amount of $448,500. Data storage and sharing is too important and consequential to be on Consent Calendar. What, how and where will data be shared? Chief Petersen addressed concerns saying the platform will aggregating internal data streams that already exist. It is highly secure and not predictive policing.
• Public Hearing to allow a six-story mixed-use with 240 market rate apartment units, six-story parking garage and 6,300 square feet of retail commercial space in Downtown area.
Other Business:
• Receive presentation and provide input on Development Impact Fee Program. Fees pay for a portion of new or expanded facilities to serve development growth. Revenue 2019-2024 is projected at approximately $114 M in the current 5-year Capital Improvement Plan used for Park Land Acquisition, Civic Facilities, Park Development, Transportation and Fire Facilities. Minor fee changes include inflationary adjustment, update of warehouse fee, and fee distribution adjustment. Policy direction needed on discount for affordable housing, increase fees for parks and/or transportation, alternative funding sources.
Council Communications:
• Appointments to Advisory Bodies:
Citizens Advisory Committee (CDBG)
William Bain
Bowen Hou
Human Relations Commission
Dyesha Gardner
Youth Advisory Commission
Aunyae Campbell
Vedika Jawa
Isabella He
Justin Ho
Kyle Leung
Mayor Lily Mei Aye
Vice Mayor Jenny Kassan Aye
Teresa Keng, District 1 Aye
Rick Jones, District 2 Aye
Yang Shao, District 4 Aye
Raj Salwan, District 5 Aye
Teresa Cox, District 6
Annual Gala will honor Business Person, Educator, Police Officer and Firefighter of the Year
Submitted by Hayward Chamber of Commerce
Photos by Russell Foote Photography
Aman Dhuper, president and CEO of St. Rose Hospital, will be honored as Business Person of the Year at the 77th annual Hayward Chamber of Commerce Awards Celebration Gala on March 20, 2021 – along with recipients of awards for Hayward’s Educator, Firefighter, and Police Officer of the Year. The event will be held at 6 p.m. and live-streamed by DualStar Digital from the conference center at Life Chiropractic College West, which this year is celebrating its 40th year in Hayward.
Reservations for the gala work like this:
• $25 for a “virtual viewing” via our live-stream option
• $80 for a virtual viewing accompanied by one catered platter of hors d’oeuvres, a gift bag with small bottle of champagne, cheese board and tool set, cheese, Brownie Bites from Sugar Bowl Bakery, nuts, crackers and more. You’ll also be recognized in an on-screen “crawl” during the event.
• $130 for a virtual viewing for two including the items above, two catered platters, and an awesome gift bag for two of some uniquely Hayward items.
“This will be a live-streamed event, but is no less prestigious than the previous 76 galas,” said chamber president and CEO Kim Huggett. “Our honorees will be safely present for the presentations and remarks and the community will be impressed with some fascinating elements of the production.”
Reservations can be made through the link at the chamber website: www.hayward.org.
The list of honorees for this year includes:
Aman Dhuper – Businessperson of the Year
Sponsored by Kaiser Permanente
Dhuper began his career at SRH as vice president of operations in January 2013 and was elevated to president and CEO in 2016. His subsequent efforts led to developing a dialysis department and new state-of-the-art pharmacy, and upgrading the clinical laboratory. His decisions affect the safety, health and well-being of patients, more than 750 employees, and 300 doctors who provide care.
Seana Condit-Gordon – Educator of the Year
Sponsored by Tri-CED Community Recycling
Seana Condit-Gordon is a proud “Made in Hayward” educator, having attended Hayward schools through grades K-12. She is even a product of the school she now leads, Bret Harte Middle School. As the district commits itself to work toward educational equity, Principal Condit-Gordon has been at the forefront of the district initiatives—including implementation of equity and anti-racist policies, African American Student Achievement Initiative, and culturally responsive teaching.
Senior Detective Matt McMahon – Police Officer of the Year
Sponsored by St. Rose Hospital
McMahon has had 18 years in law enforcement, including 12 years with the Modesto Police Department before joining the Hayward Police Department. Currently, he is assigned to HPD’s Criminal Investigations Bureau robbery and property crimes unit. His nomination cites, “His investigative skills have successfully cleared numerous cases with over a dozen arrests/charges for robberies, car jackings, burglaries, grand thefts, and frauds. These successful cases have helped bring justice to the victims of these crimes.”
Captain David Villegas – Firefighter of the Year
Sponsored by Falck Ambulance Northern California
Villegas as hired by the Hayward Fire Department in 2001 and has been promoted through the ranks from firefighter and apparatus operator to fire captain. For the past three years he has served on the Local 1909 Executive Board and has been integral to the last five fire academies as an instructor. He assisted in establishment of the Hayward Fire Department water rescue program and is currently an instructor for the Eden Area ROP program.
The event sponsors are Calpine’s Russell City Energy Center, DualStar Digital, Life Chiropratic College West, Sugar Bowl Bakery, Robin Wilma of Wilma’s Collision Repair, El Taquito Dos Restaurant, PG&E, Waste Management of Alameda County, and California State University, East Bay.
Reservations can be made through the link at the chamber website: www.hayward.org.
For more information contact the Hayward Chamber of Commerce at (510) 537-2424 or [email protected].
77th Annual Hayward Chamber of Commerce Gala
Saturday, Mar 20
6 p.m.
Virtual event
Tickets: $25-130
(510) 537-2424
www.hayward.org
History Matters
Submitted by John Grimaldi
Nineteen months after her 1880 birth, Helen Keller contracted scarlet fever—or bacterial meningitis—which left her blind, deaf, and mute. Her parents sought help from Alexander Graham Bell, who was known for his invention of the telephone, but—also—his celebrated work educating the deaf. He introduced the Keller family to the Perkins Institution—it trained people afflicted with “deafblindness”—and–facilitated the family’s hiring of 20-year-old Annie Sullivan, one of its special needs’ teachers.
Keller was a stubborn student, but Sullivan was an equally determined teacher. She “spelled” words in Keller’s palm—a difficult, and monotonous process—but Sullivan “got through” to Helen—within a few months when Keller felt the water flowing from a pump, and “remembered.”
Helen and Teacher stayed together from March 3,1887, until Sullivan’s 1936 death.
According to History.com, Keller went on to learn how to read, write and speak. With Sullivan’s assistance, her student attended Radcliffe College, graduated with honors, became a public speaker, and published her first book, “The Story of My Life” in 1903.
For more information about Helen Keller and Anne Sullivan the Grateful American Book Prize recommends Helen Keller: Humanitarian by Lois P. Nicholson.
On March 7, 1876, Alexander Graham Bell received a patent for his “harmonic telegraph”—or telephone. Up until then, Samuel Morse’s telegraph was the only means of “instantaneous” communication, but Bell had been concentrating on resolving the limitations; it could only handle one message at a time—and it required a courier to deliver the news to the recipient.
The Bell family had immigrated from England to Massachusetts and settled in Boston where Alexander worked as a teacher for the deaf. But he was also the son of an inventor, and, while he was fond of his work as a teacher, he also had an innate desire to devise a way for people to speak “directly” with each other—from a distance. He partnered with Thomas A. Watson, who worked in a machine shop, and when the telephone was completed, he uttered the now famous phrase: “Mr. Watson, come here, I need you.”
The Grateful American Book Prize recommends Telephone: The Invention That Changed Communication by Samuel Willard Crompton.
The first Rin Tin Tin to become a movie star was brought home by an American GI from World War I. Apparently, it was the pup of a German “War Dog” that got cast in a 1922 silent movie, The Man from Hell’s River –the first of twenty-seven “Rin Tin Tin” films.
Both sides in the conflict used War Dogs, mainly to carry messages. But it wasn’t until March 13, 1942 that the first official K-9 Corps was established by the U.S. Army’s Quartermaster Corps to train dogs for the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and the Coast Guard.
According to History.com, “The K-9 Corps initially accepted over 30 breeds of dogs, but the list was soon narrowed to seven: German Shepherds, Belgian sheep dogs, Doberman Pinschers, collies, Siberian Huskies, Malumutes and Eskimo dogs. Members of the K-9 Corps were trained 8 to 12 weeks; then, they were put through one of four specialized programs to prepare them for work as sentry dogs, scout or patrol dogs, messenger dogs or mine-detection dogs. In active combat duty, scout dogs proved especially essential by alerting patrols to the approach of the enemy and preventing surprise attacks.”
The Grateful American Book Prize recommends No Better Friend: Young Readers Edition: A Man, a Dog, and Their Incredible True Story of Friendship and Survival in World War II by Robert Weintraub.
History Matters is a biweekly feature courtesy of The Grateful American Book Prize.
http://gratefulamericanbookprize.com/
Honor Roll
Arcadia University, Pennsylvania
Winter 2021 graduates
• Drashti Vaghani of Fremont
• Palak Soni of Fremont
University of the Cumberlands, Kentucky
Fall 2020 graduates
• Sarath Sasikumar of Fremont
• Miteshkumar Patel of Fremont
• Nikhil Arora of Fremont
• Yugandhar Kodali of Fremont
• Harish Kumar Melachuru of Fremont
• Siva Sankar Reddy Gangireddy of Milpitas
• Suresh Gandrakota of Fremont
• Syed Abdul Qayyum of Fremont
• Gayaz Ali Mohammed of Fremont
• Vaibhav Subhedar of Fremont
• Dilraj Singh of Newark
Biola University, California
Fall 2020 Dean’s List
• Abijah Crawford of Fremont
• Keren Godwin of Fremont
• Micah Jue of Castro Valley
• Meonah Kwan of Union City
• Caleb Loftis of Castro Valley
• Vivian Mac of Hayward
• Kimberly Najarian of Hayward
• Madeleine Prater of Fremont
• Rachel Anne Sevilla of Hayward
• Neha Sharma of Union City
• Hannah Stockinger of Hayward
• Kiana Truong of Union City
• Audiana Vera of Newark
• Tony Yang of Fremont
CONTINUING EVENTS:
Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Parenting During COVID R
6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Virtual support group to help families cope with challenges encountered during COVID
To register: www.fremont.gov/3060/Caregiver-Support
(510) 574-2100
Tuesdays
Free Virtual Sing-Along
7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Zoom choir meeting hosted by Mission Peak Chamber Singers
https://www.chambersingers.org/
Contact: [email protected]
Wednesdays, January 27, February 17, and March 10
Never Forget: A Writers Workshop for Japanese-Americans R
10 a.m. – 12 noon
3-part workshop focused on 2nd generation novice Japanese-American writers
To register, email [email protected]
www.haywardareahistory.org
Wednesdays, January 20 – April 14
National Geographic Live Virtual Events $
7 p.m.
3/17: Feats of Filmmaking
3/31: Mysterious Seas
4/14: Women and Migration
LivermoreArts.org
(925) 373-6800
Nationalgeographic.com/events
Wednesdays and Sundays
McNevin at The Mudpuddle
6 p.m.
Dinner time tunes, oddservations, and bad jokes
Via Facebook Live: www.facebook.com/mudpuddlemusic
Thursdays
First Presbyterian Church of Newark Virtual Youth Group
6:30 p.m.
Youth and young adults, students welcome
Contact: [email protected] for Zoom Meeting ID#
www.newarkpres.org
Saturdays
Virtual Telescope Viewing R
9:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Free on Facebook Live
Join resident astronomers live from Chabot’s observation deck
https://chabotspace.org/calendar/
Saturdays
Online Comedy Shows R$
8 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Made Up Theatre’s interactive comedy has gone to YouTube!
2nd Saturdays, March 13, April 10, May 8
Rancho Higuera Historical Park tours
10 a.m. – 12 noon
47300 Rancho Higuera Rd., Fremont
(510) 623-7907
[email protected]
Suggested donation $2-5
Saturdays & Sundays
India Community Center Youth Programs R$
Art Class (K-5): Saturdays, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m., 1/23 – 5/15
Hindi Class (1-6): Sundays, 10:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m., 1/24 – 5/16
Public Speaking (2-6): Sundays, 4 p.m. – 5 p.m., 1/24 – 5/16
Bollywood Class (all ages): Every Day, 1/11 – 5/16
EnActe Voice Acting for Animation (3-8): Sundays, 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., 1/24 – 5/16
EnActe Art of Performance (3-8): Sundays, 11 a.m. – 12 noon, 1/24 – 5/16
https://www.indiacc.org/programs/enrichment-program-registration/
[email protected]
Sundays
Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church Family Service
10 a.m.
Via ZOOM
For link, call (510) 471-2581
Sundays
First Presbyterian Church of Newark Worship Services
8:30 a.m.; Worship Service
12 noon: Sunday School, Ages K – 6th grade
Contact: [email protected] for Zoom Meeting ID#
www.newarkpres.org
Last Thursday of the Month, January – June
Mini MBA in Entrepreneurship
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Self-paced virtual program for early-stage entrepreneurs
https://sv.tie.org/mini-mba-in-entrepreneurship/
Mondays, March 8 – April 26
How To Open A Food Business R
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
8-week seminar for those interested in opening a food business – in Spanish
https://sbdc.events/Abrirunnegociodealimentos
Tuesdays in March
7 o’clock rocks!
7 p.m.
Join Groovy Judy live as she celebrates women artists and songwriters
http://facebook.com/groovyjudyrocks
Friday, March 12 – Sunday, March 21
Songs in a Time of Pandemic $
Online Premiere: Friday, Mar 12 @7:30 p.m.
On-Demand Streaming: Saturday, Mar 13 – Sunday, Mar 21
(510) 885-3118
https://www.showtix4u.com/events/17582
https://www.csueastbay.edu/theatre/performances/seasons.html
Tickets: $7 – 20
Sunday, March 14 – Sunday April 11
Superhero 5k Virtual Run $R
Run, walk or stroll on your own time to raise money for Parkinson’s Foundation. Participate in scavenger hunts and raffles.
https://www.active.com/running/distance-running-races/superhero-5k-a-week-virtual-challenge-2021
Monday, Mar 29 – Friday, Apr 2
Monday, Apr 5 – Friday, April 9
Oakland virtual ZooCamps $R
9 a.m. – 12 noon
Live interactive activities, animal close-ups
Registration opens Friday, Mar 5 @3 p.m.
https://www.oaklandzoo.org/
Access code: $250 per household
Discovery kit: $80 per camper
Mondays in March
SAVE #Herstory
Inspiring stories of women who changed history
Via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/save.dv
Via YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPWCmCcwi-juIUgzy-GdRXw
Wednesdays in March
SAVE #AShortWalk
Podcast: Voices of change shaping the IPV movement
https://www.ashortwalkcast.org/episodes
Fridays in March
SAVE #MovementMakers
11 a.m.
Conversations with the young leaders of today
Via Facebook Live: https://www.facebook.com/save.dv
Wednesdays, April 7 – April 28
Hayward Police Department Community Academy R
6:00 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.
Virtual 4-week course all about the HPD. Ages 18+. Must pass background check
Via Zoom
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/community-academy
(510) 293-5051
UPCOMING
Tuesday, March 9
Every Business is Going Online – Part 3 R
3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Free business webinar hosted by the Alameda County Small Business Development Center
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/47681
Wednesday, March 10
Cocktails & Conservation
6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Grab a drink and learn about Oakland Zoo’s wildlife conservation efforts
Via Facebook and YouTube
https://www.oaklandzoo.org/programs-and-events/cocktails-conservation
Thursday, March 11
Ride-On Tri-City! R
10 a.m.
Presentation from a Transportation Resource Specialist
To register-
Online: https://tinyurl.com/wre7xv8b
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (510) 574-2053
Friday, March 12
Black Business Roundtable
Featured speaker Harold Roundtree, CEO of UNCLE Credit Union
Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/3uUjfib
Meeting ID:854 8944 4160
Passcode: 577755
Saturday, March 13
Talkin’ Dirt
9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
The do’s and don’ts in the garden for the month of March
Via Zoom
Meeting ID:852 9388 8581
Passcode: 298542
Saturday, March 13
Zoom Social Write-In
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Short prompts for writers of all levels
Request Zoom link: [email protected]
Saturday, March 13
King Corn R
3 p.m.
Documentary about two college friends that grow a bumper crop of corn and the troubling questions that are raised about the agricultural industry
www.aclibrary.org
Saturday, March 13
Drive-In Concert $
Gareth Emery: We’ll Be OK
3 p.m.: https://bit.ly/2X0zkmM
7 p.m.: https://bit.ly/3pyqCYY
Alameda County Fairgrounds
4501 Pleasanton Avenue, Pleasanton
Saturday, March 13
Arias from Tosca plus!
6 p.m.
Beloved arias from Puccini’s Tosca – Livermore Valley Opera
Via YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LivermoreValleyOpera
www.livermorevalleyopera.com
Saturday, March 13 & Sunday, March 14
Niles Canyon Railway Train Rides $
Steam Trains: 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Departure from Sunol Depot
https://www.ncry.org/ride/rides-2021/
Monday, March 15
Milpitas Rotary
12 noon
Noemi Conway and Shea Johnson from the Stroke Awareness Foundation will present life-saving information
Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/364zWgd
Meeting ID: 830 1305 6992
Passcode: 113524
Tuesday, March 16
COVID-19: The Road Ahead R
3:30 p.m.
Virtual Seminar – Hear from an infectious disease specialist about the latest clinical developments
www.whhs.com
(800) 963-7070
Thursday, March 18
Yan Can Cook with On Lok R
4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Live, virtual cooking series celebrating Chinese recipes and traditions
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/yan-can-cook-with-on-lok-tickets-142125121063
Thursday, March 18
Hayward Nonprofit Alliance
10 a.m.
Two presenters talk about image and donors
Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/30deRN8
Meeting ID: 823 8148 0428
Passcode: 147350
Thursday, March 18
Bay Area Transit Co-Creation Workshop R
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Give feedback about public transit
https://bit.ly/2Oqz7rL
Thursday, March 18
Website Development & Optimization – Part 2 R
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Free business webinar hosted by the Alameda County Small Business Development Center
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/47794
Saturday, March 20
Niles Rotary’s Spring Fling $R
6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Virtual fundraiser for Fremont schools
https://one.bidpal.net/niles/welcome
Saturday, March 20
Fascination for Birds: Hunting Birds with a Camera R
10:00 a.m.
Focus on birds of the Tri-City and Bay area
https://aclibrary.bibliocommons.com/events
Saturday, March 20
77th Annual Hayward Chamber of Commerce Gala R$
6 p.m.
Virtual celebration honoring the Business Person, Educator, Firefighter, and Police Officer of the Year
www.hayward.org
Saturday, March 20 & Sunday, March 21
Niles Canyon Railway Train Rides $
Saturday – Diesel Trains: 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Sunday – Steam Trains: 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Departure from the Sunol Depot
https://www.ncry.org/ride/rides-2021/
Tuesday, March 23
Managing Diabetes During Challenging Times R
6:30 p.m.
Virtual Seminar – Learn tips on how to effectively manage your diabetes
www.whhs.com
(800) 963-7070
Tuesday, March 23
Covid-19: How to Negotiate Debt & Read Credit Report R
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn how to repair your small business debt – a free ACSBDC webinar
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/47940
Wednesday, March 24
Covid-19: Mind Mapping For Your Small Business R
3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Free business webinar hosted by the Alameda County Small Business Development Center
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/47889
Tuesday, March 30
Treating Neck and Back Pain From Home R
3:30 p.m.
Virtual Seminar – Learn the common causes of pain and see a demo of physiotherapy exercises
www.whhs.com
(800) 963-7070
Wednesday, March 31
Covid-19: Commerical Tenant Guidance R
3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Guidance for commercial tenants impacted by COVID-19 – a free ACSBDC webinar
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/47890
Monday, April 5
Milpitas Rotary
11:45 a.m.
Congressman Ro Khanna
Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/364zWgd
Meeting ID: 830 1305 6992
Passcode: 113524
Saturday, April 10
Spring Sing
6 p.m.
Celebrate spring with a concert of opera favorites
Via YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LivermoreValleyOpera
www.livermorevalleyopera.com
Monday, April 12
Milpitas Rotary
12 noon
Santa Clara County Supervisor Otto Lee
Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/364zWgd
Meeting ID: 830 1305 6992
Passcode: 113524
Thursday, April 15
Covid-19: Website Development & Optimization – Part 3 R
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Best practices for website design – a free ACSBDC webinar
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/47795
Monday, April 19
Milpitas Rotary
12 noon
San Jose Mercury News Columnist Sal Pizzaro
Via Zoom: https://bit.ly/364zWgd
Meeting ID: 830 1305 6992
Passcode: 113524
Thursday, April 22
Covid-19: Personal Care Business Guidance
3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
How to safely operate and welcome your clients back – a free ACSBDC webinar
https://nc.ecenterdirect.com/events/47891
Fremont-Newark Little Leagues ready for 2021 season
Submitted by CA D14 Little League
As words like “cohorts”, “bubbles” and “pods” have become part of our everyday lives, soon it will be time to reintroduce, “hits, “catches”, “throws” and “runs” back into our vocabulary! Little League Softball and Baseball is on the way back for 2021.
On February 26, 2021, the Alameda County Health Department approved resumption of youth sports throughout the county. This was due to COVID-19 data in the county reaching levels deemed safe for outdoor youth sports, and in compliance with new state guidelines permitting the resumption of certain youth sports.
After the County’s action, Fremont Unified School District announced they would accept outdoor facility permit applications, beginning March 3rd. This will allow Little Leagues in Fremont to resume using the fields and facilities they built and maintain on school grounds. The news in Newark is not quite as good, but as this is being written, Newark Little League is working with Newark Unified School District and hopes to have access to their fields shortly.
Since the 2020 season was suspended last spring, California District 14 (CA D14), which administers the Fremont and Newark Little Leagues, has been working with the leagues to plan a safe return for the 2021 season. The Little League baseball and softball leagues have been preparing with online signups for some time and are ready to sign up more players. Local Little Leagues are planning preseason practice sessions and player development in COVID safe cohorts prior to player assessments and team
formation.
CA D14 District Administrator Bruce Marcellus stated, “Since the 2020 season was cancelled last March, our goal has been to give all the children in Fremont and Newark an opportunity to play baseball and softball as soon as it is safe to do so. Each league added a COVID plan to their existing safety plans to help maintain safety for players, volunteers, and spectators.”
Mr. Marcellus offered one more thought, “I’d like to personally thank the more than one hundred local league volunteers who worked tirelessly to maintain fields, develop safety plans, and prepare for the resumption of Little League baseball and softball. Little League is a community program and cannot function without these volunteers. Please thank them when you see them at the fields, or better yet, offer to volunteer. I would also like to thank the county health authorities, and school district staff and trustees for working with us to resume youth sports safely. For the members of Newark Little League, the Fremont leagues will find a way for you to play even if access to your school fields is delayed.”
For more information regarding Little League Softball and Baseball in Fremont and Newark, visit the California District 14 website at cad14.org, or follow us on Facebook and Twitter @cadsitrict14llb. To find the league in your neighborhood, go to https://www.littleleague.org/play-little-league/league-finder/.
Worn down by Covid isolation? Try something new!
Submitted by Nancy Guarnera
Want to meet new people? Thought that someday you would like to try creative writing? Here is your chance to explore your creativity and meet other writers in a fun, non-judgmental Zoom Social Write-In sponsored by Fremont Area Writers on Saturday, March 13 from 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. This event is for writers and aspiring writers from complete beginners to already published writers.
How the Social Write-In works: After you sign in, the computer will randomly assign you to a virtual room with several other writers. Once everyone is gathered, you will get three writing prompts. Choose one and write for 8 minutes. You can write memoir, fiction, or poetry, but the writing prompts have been chosen to encourage you to write about yourself so that participants can get to know each other.
After you write, there is time for everyone in the room to read their response to the prompt and socialize in a relaxed, supportive atmosphere. The computer will then reassign everyone to a different room, the prompts will change, and the process will repeat.
Example prompts from the February Write-In:
The dumbest thing I ever bought
It was much better than I expected
The most interesting thing I ever found
To participate in the Write-In, please request the Zoom meeting link from Scott Davidson at [email protected].
Zoom Social Write-In
Saturday, Mar 13
2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Request Zoom link: [email protected]
Margaret Devries Rainey
Resident of Vacaville
October 9, 1923 – February 26, 2021
Margaret Devries Rainey died in her home on February 26, 2021, surrounded by family. Margaret was born October 9, 1923 in Fremont, Nebraska, to Perry and Allana Devries.
The family moved to California and initially settled in Pleasant Hill and later Fremont. She graduated from UC Berkeley and was a proud Cal Bear, attending many football games as an alum.
Margaret was an avid reader and could still recite poetry she learned in college even in her last days. Her career was as a social worker and she worked her way up to Division Chief of Alameda County Welfare Department in Fremont. She married William E. Rainey in 1975 and they enjoyed 33 years of camping and travelling. Margaret was not only a social worker by career, but she was also committed to the most vulnerable of our population throughout her life.
She helped to spearhead the movement that led to the Tri-City Homeless Coalition and the Alameda County Child Welfare Club. At St. James Episcopal Church in Fremont, Margaret held leadership positions in the Altar Guild, Sunday School, and Vestry. Her most notable legacy is her family, whom she helped many of them to attain their college educations.
She is preceded in death by her husband, William (Bill) Rainey, mother, Allana Devries, father, Perry Devries Sr. and brothers, Perry Jr. and Joshua. Margaret is survived by her nieces and nephews, Genie Devries, Sandy Devries, Ann Stoltz (Devries), and Doug Devries and eight great nieces and nephews, and four great, great, grand-nieces and nephews. Aunt Margie’s abiding faith and life of service were an inspiration to all who knew her.
Memorial contributions can be sent to the Church of the Epiphany, 300 West Street, Vacaville, CA 95688.
Fremont Chapel of Roses
510-797-1900
Milpitas City Council
March 2, 2021
Proclamations:
• March was proclaimed as Youth Arts Month
• March was proclaimed as Women’s History Month
Announcement:
• Santa Clara County transitions to California COVID Red tier designation from March 3rd.
Consent Calendar:
• Initiated proceedings for the Annual Levy and Collection of Assessments and ordered the preparation of the Annual Engineer’s Report for Landscaping and Lighting Maintenance Assessment for McCarthy Ranch and Sinclair Horizon.
• Authorized the City Manager to Engage in Legislative Advocacy related to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
• Authorized the City Manager to Purchase Six Police Vehicles through a Cooperative Procurement Contract with Sourcewell.
• Awarded construction contract to Johnson Controls Fire Protections LP, for the City Hall Fire Suppression System Repairs project.
• Approved an agreement with the City of San Jose for the Pavement Restoration of Landess Avenue between Highway 680 and Piedmont Road.
• Rejected all bids and authorized re-packaging and re-advertisement of the Project for Bid Proposals, McCandless Park Project.
• The 2020 Housing Element Annual Progress Report and Housing Successor Agency Annual Report were authorized for submittal to California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR).
• 2020 General Plan Annual progress report was authorized for submittal to the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR).
• Authorized the agreement with the Mid-Management-Confidential (Mid-Con) Unit – LIUNA/UPEC Local 792 to extend the existing labor agreement through June 30, 2025.
• Approved appointments to the Veterans Commission, Energy & Environmental Sustainability Commission, Community Advisory Commission, Economic Development and Trade Commission, and Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources Commission.
Public Hearing:
• Following a Public Hearing directed the County of Santa Clara Consumer and Environmental Protection Agency- Weed Abatement Program to abate the nuisance.
Community Development:
• Provided guidance for the preparation of the Draft Milpitas Metro Specific Plan, for availability in early summer.
Leadership and Support Services:
• Amended various sections of Responsible Construction of the Milpitas Municipal Code.
Mayor Rich Tran Aye
Vice Mayor Carmen Montano Aye
Anthony Phan Aye
Karina Dominguez Aye
Evelyn Chua Aye
Music for Minors II
Submitted by Carol Zilli, Executive Director
Music for Minors II (MFMII) docents have been busy sharing songs in our virtual classrooms with children and in our free monthly Music and Movement sessions via Zoom, which are open to the entire community. We are happily sharing music with children from all over California each month thanks to Zoom technology. Parents and siblings participate too which really makes it a family affair.
Nothing helps us to more fully experience February celebrations like Black History Month, Chinese New Year, Valentine’s Day and Presidents’ Day, than MUSIC! A song brings up many memories and can teach many things through its lyrics as well as its unique melody.
Remember parents, relatives, friends and neighbors, college students, seniors, businessmen and women, retired teachers and everyone who loves music and children and knows how important music is in children’s healthy development, MFMII welcomes you to join us in our mission of keeping music in children’s classrooms and lives. You too can have the joy of sharing musical experiences with children by becoming a MFMII Volunteer Music Docent, trained by MFMII every fall between mid-September through mid-November. Visit www.musicforminors2.org or call 510-733-1189 to learn more.
MFMII is pleased to introduce Sneha Antony as the new MFMII Docent Manager. Sneha has been a docent with MFMII at Parkmont since 2017. With a desire to be involved in her daughter’s class, Sneha chose to venture through what she considers her most enjoyable talent – singing. She enjoys teaching music to students from Kindergarten to Grade 4. The lockdown and pandemic could not stop her. She has been learning Indian classical dance – Mohiniyattam for the past four years. She strongly believes that music and dance should be a part of every child growing up!
Let’s keep the celebrations going and keep creating special memories filled with “L-O-V-E as there’s a lot of love inside of you and me!”
Family Music Night
Wednesday, Mar 17
6:30 p.m.
Virtual event via Zoom
www.musicforminors2.org
Taking Dog Stars for Springtime Walk: Sirius and Procyon
By David Prosper
March skies feature many dazzling stars and constellations, glimmering high in the night, but two of the brightest stars are the focus of our attention this month: Sirius and Procyon, the dog stars.
Sirius is the brightest star in the nighttime sky, in large part because it is one of the closest stars to our solar system at 8.6 light years away. Compared to our Sun, Sirius possesses twice the mass and is much younger. Sirius is estimated to be several hundred million years old, just a fraction of the Sun’s 4.6 billion years. Near Sirius – around the width of a hand with fingers splayed out, held away at arm’s length – you will find Procyon, the 8th brightest star in the night sky. Procyon is another one of our Sun’s closest neighbors, though a little farther away than Sirius, 11.5 light years. While less massive than Sirius, it is much older and unusually luminous for a star of its type, leading astronomers to suspect that it may “soon” – at some point millions of years from now – swell into a giant star as it nears the end of its stellar life.
Sirius and Procyon are nicknamed the “Dog Stars,” an apt name as they are the brightest stars in their respective constellations – Canis Major and Canis Minor – whose names translate to “Big Dog” and “Little Dog.” Not everyone sees them as canine companions. As two of the brightest stars in the sky, they feature prominently in the sky stories of cultures around the world. Sirius also captures the imaginations of people today: when rising or setting near the horizon, its brilliance mixes with our atmosphere’s turbulence, causing the star’s light to shimmer with wildly flickering color. This vivid, eerie sight was an indication to ancient peoples of changes in the seasons, and even triggers UFO reports in the modern era.
Both bright stars have unseen companions: tiny, dense white dwarf stars, the remnants of supermassive companion stars. Interestingly, these dim companions were inferred from careful studies of their parent stars’ movements in the 1800s, before they were ever directly observed. They are a challenging observation, even with a large telescope, since their parent stars are so very bright that their light overwhelms the much dimmer light of their tiny companions. The white dwarf stars, just like their parent stars, have differences: Sirius B is younger, brighter, and more energetic than Procyon B.
Careful observations of these nearby systems over hundreds of years have helped advance the fields of astrometry, precise measurement of stars; stellar evolution; and astroseismology, the study of the internal structure of stars via their oscillations. Discover more about our stellar neighborhood at www.nasa.gov.
This article is distributed by NASA Night Sky Network. The Night Sky Network program supports astronomy clubs across the USA dedicated to astronomy outreach. Visit https://nightsky.jpl.nasa.gov/index.cfm to find local clubs, events, and more.
Newark Police Log
Submitted by Newark PD
Thursday, February 4
• At 6:53 a.m. officers responded to a report of a carjacking involving an armed suspect that occurred in the 5000 block of Thornton Avenue. Neighboring agencies were alerted and on February 7 the vehicle was recovered in San Francisco and two suspects were taken into custody.
Sunday, February 7, 2021
• At 7:47 p.m. Officer Riddles investigated a single driver vehicle collision into a tree in the area of Thornton Avenue and Arden Street. Riddles arrested a 50-year-old Union City woman on suspicion of DUI. She was booked at Fremont Jail.
• At 9:57 p.m. Officer Slavazza investigated a single driver vehicle collision into a parked car in the 35000 block of Newark Boulevard. Slavazza arrested a 54-year Fremont man on suspicion of DUI.
Monday, February 15
• At 4:44 p.m. officers investigated a report of a stolen catalytic converter from a Toyota Prius that occurred over the past 10 days in the 5000 block of Civic Terrace Ave. Another catalytic converter theft from a Honda CRV was reported at 9:31 p.m. February 16 in the 37000 block of Willow Street.
Wednesday, February 17
• At 12:50 p.m. Officer Quinonez responded to a report of a theft that had occurred in the 200 block of NewPark Mall Road. The loss was $6,000 worth of merchandise.
• At 3:26 p.m. Officer Johnson made a traffic enforcement stop in the area of Robertson Avenue and Lobelia Drive and arrested a 31-year-old Fremont man on suspicion of driving with a suspended license, DUI, possession of drug paraphernalia, restricted driver using a vehicle without interlock device and two warrants. He was booked at Santa Rita Jail.
•At 7:55 p.m. Officers San Pedro and Kapu were dispatched to the 8000 block of Gateway Boulevard for a report about an unwanted guest. The suspect ignored the officer’s commands and attempted to flee on foot. After a short struggle, officers arrested a 25-year-old Toluca Lake man on multiple outstanding warrants, possession of a controlled substance, obstructing a peace officer and battery on a peace officer. He was booked at Santa Rita Jail.
Thursday, February 18, 2021
At 5:16 p.m. officers responded to a report of a robbery with a firearm that had just occurred in the 5000 block of Thornton Avenue. No loss was initially reported. Officer McCuin investigated.
Grants for nonprofit organizations
Submitted by Paul Sanftner
Nonprofit organizations serving the San Leandro community are invited to apply for Community Assistance Grant Program (CAP) and Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). These grants provide financial support to nonprofits providing human services and programs for individuals and families living in San Leandro. The minimum grant amount available is $10,000. Applications must be received by Thursday, March 18.
The Request for Funding Applications (RFA) is for a two-year funding cycle covering fiscal years within 2021-2023. CAP is funded by the City of San Leandro general fund and CDBG from the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD).
The city is interested in reviewing applications that address unmet needs identified within the Human Services Gap Analysis. Priority will be given to the following areas: high-level or severe mental and behavioral health needs, development and coordination of food security programs or services, and domestic and intimate partner violence services. Also, because of the COVID-19 public health crises, the city has added an additional priority of job development, income support, and employment services.
To learn more and to obtain an application, visit www.sanleandro.org and view the “Latest News” section.
Community Assistance Grants Program
Deadline: Thursday, Mar 18 by 4 p.m.
www.sanleandro.org – “Latest News”
Nursing homes see 82 percent decline in COVID cases
Submitted by Beth Martino
The American Health Care Association and National Center for Assisted Living (AHCA/NCAL) recently released a report showing nursing homes in the U.S. have seen the lowest number of new COVID cases since the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) started tracking back in May 2020, suggesting that the vaccines are working.
Recent CMS data shows that nursing homes have seen an 82 percent decline in new COVID cases among residents since the peak during the week of December 20, 2020, when there were more than 30,000 new resident cases. In the same period, community cases in the general population dropped by 46 percent, showcasing that vaccines are having an impact in protecting the elderly population in nursing homes.
“We still have a long road ahead, but these numbers are incredibly encouraging and a major morale booster for frontline caregivers who have been working tirelessly every day for a year to protect our residents,” said Mark Parkinson, president and CEO, AHCA/NCAL. “This new data showcases just how important it is for nursing homes residents and staff, as well as the general public, to get the vaccine because it is clearly working.”
The report also shows cases have dropped to the lowest level since CMS started tracking weekly COVID cases in nursing homes last May. Along with the lowest number of new COVID cases, new data also shows COVID related deaths in nursing homes declined by 63 percent since December 20, 2020.
“Though this report brings hope, we cannot let our guard down. We must continue to encourage folks to get vaccinated, especially caregivers and staff,” added Parkinson. “Public health officials must also continue to ensure that long term care residents and staff remain the highest priority for accessing the vaccine, as the on-site clinics with CVS, Walgreens and other pharmacy partners are coming to a close.
“Most importantly, we call on the Administration to review its current guidance to nursing homes on restricting visitors and group activities,” concluded Parkinson. “With millions of residents and caregivers now fully protected thanks to the vaccines, residents must be able to safely reengage in meaningful activities and be reunited with their loved ones.”
In December, AHCA/NCAL launched #GetVaccinated, a nationwide campaign that aimed at encouraging all long term care residents, families, and staff members to consent to the vaccine as well as provide credible information to help inform their decision. Recently, AHCA/NCAL also announced the nationwide goal of getting 75 percent of all long term staff vaccinated by June 30.
For more information, visit www.ahcancal.org/News-and-Communications/.
Police post video update on officer involved shooting
Submitted by Geneva Bosques, Fremont PD
Fremont Police Department (FPD) officials released a video update on March 2 on an officer-involved shooting that occurred February 9 and involved multiple suspects. Narrated by Chief Kim Petersen, the video can be seen at www.fremontpolice.gov/OIS.
The incident started at 4:45 p.m. when Officer Andrew Dennis located a stolen vehicle near Cushing and Auto Mall parkways and tried to make a traffic stop when backup units arrived. The driver of the vehicle fled northbound on Cushing, then west on Stevenson Boulevard with officers following where it stopped when the road ended.
Several people exited the vehicle and fled on foot into a nearby field with officers in pursuit. Soon, one suspect fired several rounds at Dennis and Officer Jeffrey Carter, who both returned fire and then ran for cover. More officers arrived and set a perimeter around the area to contain the suspects. No officers were injured. Eventually four male juveniles were caught and taken into custody and three firearms were recovered inside the perimeter.
One suspect was taken to a hospital for medical attention after sustaining injuries from a police K9 bite. A police SWAT team was used in the incident with assistance by police from Newark, Union City, Milpitas, California Highway Patrol and East Bay Regional Parks.
All four suspects were booked at Juvenile Hall. Because of their ages, detectives were unable to interview them. However, detectives believe the youths were involved in a home invasion robbery at the Good Nite Inn on Cushing Parkway.
The next day, February 10, a car believed stolen in the home invasion robbery was spotted in Fremont and an enforcement stop was made near Decoto Road and Mission Boulevard in Union City. Inside were the four juveniles along with a female juvenile. Inside the car was the victim’s stolen cellphone. All five suspects were taken into custody and face various charges. Three of the male suspects are from East Palo Alto, ages, 14, 15 and 16; the fourth male suspect is a from Hayward, age 17. The female suspect is from Hayward, age 16.
FPD officials said that because the suspects are juveniles, no additional details about any prior criminal arrests can be released. An investigation is continuing.
Sunbright Oxalis
By Pat Kite
Sunbright yellow Oxalis is now overtaking my garden. For years I tried to weed it out, grabbing leafy sections and yanking. Last year I gave up. It had won. Oxalis pes-caprae, Bermuda Buttercup, multiplies by plentiful tiny bulbs. After you yank out top leaves, the bulbs remain underground and will sprout. If you spray herbicides or miscellaneous, many bulbs will remain and sprout. Bermuda Buttercup can transform an entire lawn area, sometimes blanketing other ground covers. But, while it is in yellow bloom, admittedly it is rather pretty.
I was amazed to discover there are about 500 types of Oxalis and ample lookalikes. Some behave sanely and even make house plants. Their flowers are usually pink, rose, and purple. But yellow Bermuda Buttercup is our today’s target. Since March 17 is St. Patrick’s Day, let us peek.
Once upon a time, a Christian missionary named Patrick lived in the land of Druids (now Ireland). He was a godly man and much admired as a saint. One day a tribal chief confessed difficulty with Holy Trinity doctrine (the unity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as three persons in one Godhead). Trying to explain in layman’s terms, Saint Patrick picked up a nearby shamrock (the distinctive leaf of an Oxalis plant). He used this common three-leafed plant to explain the Holy Trinity, i.e. Three Gods in One. He also continued focusing on Druid conversion. The word spread, and soon the shamrock became an Irish symbol. Shamrocks and four-leaf clovers are not the same thing; the word “shamrock” refers only to a clover with three leaves.
So, why are we meandering through our local Bermuda Buttercup looking for a four-leaf clover? The Druids, or Celtic priests, believed when they carried a three-leaf clover or shamrock, they could see evil spirits approaching and escape in time. Four-leaf clovers apparently offered magical protection and warded off bad luck. There are about 10,000 three-leaf clovers for every four-leaf clover. The leaves of four-leaf clovers stand for faith, hope, luck, and love, i.e., if you find one, you are lucky.
Personally, I think trying to eliminate Bermuda Buttercup is a waste of energy. It will die back as the season ends, multiplying underground, but at least gone from view, at least for now.
Rancho Higuera Historical Park open for tours
By Kelsey Camello for the Washington Township Museum of Local History
Rancho Higuera Historical Park and its beautifully restored adobe are now open for tours and visitors. The view of Fremont and its surroundings is spectacular from this particular spot. Pack a picnic lunch, come out and enjoy the park.
Visit this culturally significant site at the foot of Mission Peak in the Warm Springs area of Fremont, with a history extending back to Fulgencio Higuera, a descendent of Jose Higuera who came to California from Spain on the de Anza expedition (1775-1776). The original adobe home is the last of seven adobes built between 1830 – 1840 on Fulgencio Higuera’s ranch. Restoration and structural strengthening was done in 1978.
After you experience the adobe and accompanying video on its history and preservation, take a walk to nearby Agua Fria Creek where you can reflect on the Native American presence and natural habitat. Interpretive panels at street level also help tell the history of the land and its people over time.
Open Hours are 10 a.m. – 12 noon on the 2nd Saturday of each month, weather permitting. Upcoming open days are March 13, April 10, and May 8.
In order to comply with county guidelines regarding Covid-19, we ask that you maintain a social distance of six feet or more from people outside of your household and wear a proper face covering on the property.
Suggested donation: $2 per visitor / $5 per family
Museum members and children 5 and under are always FREE
The park is located at 47300 Rancho Higuera Road in Fremont. Please park at street level and walk up.
Questions? Please contact the Washington Township Museum of Local History at 190 Anza Street in Fremont. Call us at (510) 623-7907 or email [email protected].
Rancho Higuera Historical Park tours
2nd Saturdays: Mar 13, Apr 10, May 8
10 a.m. – 12 noon
47300 Rancho Higuera Rd., Fremont
(510) 623-7907
[email protected]
Suggested donation: $2-5
Ronald E. Perry
Resident of Fremont
July 12, 1961 – February 27, 2021
Ronald E. Perry, 59, died on Saturday, February 27, 2021 from currently unknown causes in Niles, CA.
Ron was born on July 12, 1961 in Castro Valley, CA. He lived in Hayward until he was a young adult, then moved to Niles, living in his father’s childhood home. Ron enjoyed his life in Niles with all of its historic charm. He enjoyed sports and was an avid Giants fan.
He is survived by his Father, Edward A Perry, three brothers, Edward J, Nolan and Paul, Sister in Law Normilene Perry, nieces & nephews Joseph, Nick and his wife Gabriella, Nina, Amanda and her partner Ryan, Neil and his wife Alex, and Harley, great Niece Isabelle, great nephews Kevin and Adrian. And many adored family pets.
He is preceded in death by his Mother, Esther L Perry and long-time companion Denise Nastasi.
Visitation will be held Thursday, March 11, 2021 from 4:00 – 7:00 PM with a Chapel Service at 5:00 PM, Fremont Chapel of the Roses, 1940 Peralta Blvd., Fremont.
Fremont Chapel of the Roses
510-797-1900
San Leandro City Council
March 1, 2021
Public comments:
• A citizen told the council she is looking forward to the city developing a park named in honor of Steven Taylor and that the community and Taylor’s family members should be involved in the planning process. She also asked the council to consider a work session on implementing community mental health programs that don’t involve police as first responders. Another citizen expressed concern that the acting police chief changed two department policies without input from the City Council.
Consent Calendar
• Motion nominating Luis Mendoza as District 2 Representative to the Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Adjustments.
• Resolution to award a $1,874,058 construction contract to Westland Contractors for the Sanitary Sewer Point Repairs 2021 Project. Authorize City Manager to approve individual change orders up to 5% (or $93,703) of the original contract amount and negotiate and approve change orders up to a cumulative value not to exceed 35% (or $655,920) of the original contract amount and appropriation of $1,500,000 of WPCP Enterprise Funds.
• Resolution approving a one-time amnesty program that waives collection of all outstanding uncollectable overdue fines and approving the removal of the San Leandro Public Library’s overdue fines and the charges for non-resident San Leandro worker and non-resident family fee card from the City’s fee schedule.
• Execute a $2,670,000 consulting services agreement with Leland Environmental Solutions Corporation for remediation of soil at the Water Pollution Control Plant. Negotiate and approve contract amendments up to 10% (or $267,000) of the original contract amount; and to appropriate $500,000 for the Project in Fiscal Year 2020-2021.
• Action item
Ordinance to require large grocery stores in San Leandro to pay employees an additional $5 per hour in temporary hazard pay during a specified period of time associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Adopted with Mayor Cutter recusing herself because of a potential conflict of interest involving a family member, and Councilmember Ballew voting no.
Mayor Pauline Russo Cutter 1 Aye, 1 recusal
Vice Mayor Victor Aguilar Aye
Pete Ballew 1 Aye, 1 Nay
Bryan Azevedo Aye
Fred Simon Aye
Deborah Cox Aye
Corina Lopez Aye
Public library eliminates overdue fines and fee card policy
Submitted by Paul Sanftner
San Leandro City Council voted on March 1 to approve the public library’s proposal to permanently eliminate overdue fines, as well as allowing the library to do a one-time overdue fine amnesty and waive outstanding fines. Adoption of the city council policy is effective immediately. Library members will still be expected to return library materials on time and will be billed for lost or damaged items.
In addition to going overdue fine free, the city council also approved the library’s proposal to remove its fee card policy, which will allow San Leandro Public Library card memberships for all current California residents who apply for a card. The fee card policy, which dates to the 1940s, has been a consistent access barrier for residents of the neighboring town of Ashland, commonly known as unincorporated San Leandro, and the city’s surrounding communities.
“The focus of all libraries is to provide free equitable access to its community, which means free, fair, and impartial use of our resources and services,” said Bill Sherwood, acting library director. “Eliminating these two policies will allow our library system to provide more equitable access, and I hope you will join me in celebrating these historic changes and the library staff that made it happen.”
For more information, visit the www.sanleandrolibrary.org, email [email protected], or call the Library Reference line at (510) 577-3971 during library business hours.
San Leandro Library reference service hours
Monday – Thursday: 12 noon – 8 p.m.
Friday: 12 noon – 5:30 p.m.
Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday: 12 noon – 4 p.m.
(510) 577-3971
www.sanleandrolibrary.org
[email protected]
Santa Clara County Library District Starts Lobby Service
Submitted by Mariana Walker
Santa Clara County Library District (SCCLD) is offering lobby service starting Monday, March 8 at most locations. This service, in addition to contactless curbside service, will be available at Milpitas library, among others.
“Lobby service invites patrons to safely enter the library to pick up holds and browse book bundles, bestsellers, movies, and new collections,” County Librarian Jennifer Weeks said. “No appointment is required, and with a limited browsing collection and bundles available, everyone can discover something new.”
Visitors who enter the library must be COVID-19 symptom-free, wear a face covering, and maintain social distance. Hand sanitizer is available to patrons as they enter and exit the library. Each library has self-service machines to check out items. Patrons will need to have their library card with them or know their library card number and PIN to use the self-check machines. Visitors are asked to keep their visit to 10 minutes to allow as many as possible to safely enjoy lobby service.
Patrons may still arrange contactless curbside service, where a staff member will bring items out to a patron’s vehicle. Appointments can be made online at https://sccld.org/curbside/#appointments or by calling (408) 540-3947. Curbside service hours differ by library location. The hours of each library can be found at https://sccld.org/curbside/. Account or reference service will continue by phone, email, or chat. For more information, visit https://sccld.org/informed/.
Santa Clara County Library Services
(408) 540-3947
https://sccld.org/curbside/#appointments
https://sccld.org/curbside/
https://sccld.org/informed/
Songs in a Time of Pandemic
Submitted by Cal State East Bay Theatre Department
Songs in a Time of Pandemic is more than a musical revue. It is a snapshot of who and where we are after months of Covid-19, Social Distancing, Black Lives Matter protests and the startling changes in our government. The cast of nine singers, six actors and nine dancers were put through interviews to cast a light on their own reactions to this unusual time. Out of that, has come songs, monologues and dances that tell a story that is at once personal and universal.
This revue is directed by Marc Jacobs, with Musical Direction by Sierra Dee, and
choreography by Laura Elaine Ellis and the performers. Songs in a Time of Pandemic will be available for on-demand streaming Saturday, March 13 – Sunday, March 21, with an online premiere Friday, March 12 at 7:30. For streaming information call (510) 885-3118. Tickets are available at Showtix4u.com
Songs in a Time of Pandemic
Online Premiere: Friday, Mar 12 @7:30 p.m.
On-Demand Streaming: Saturday, Mar 13 – Sunday, Mar 21
(510) 885-3118.
https://www.showtix4u.com/events/17582
https://www.csueastbay.edu/theatre/performances/seasons.html
Tickets: $7 – 20
Virtual fundraiser eases strain of distance learning
By Miranda Jetter
In a normal year, laptops used by students at Fremont schools live on carts that shuttle between classrooms all day long. Now the laptops, like the kids who use them, are homebound. In addition, these devices now serve as a key resource to connect children to their classrooms. However, they are in short supply.
This is the focus of Niles Rotary Club’s virtual “Spring Fling” event. The hour-long fundraiser will support three Fremont elementary schools—Oliveira, Azevada, and Harvey Green—to purchase more crucial Chromebook laptops.
Rotary Club members were aware that students were using Chromebooks for distance learning and that there were not always enough to go around. To confirm this, they reached out to principals of three schools with Rotarian connections; their offer of assistance was met with an enthusiastic yes. “They were ecstatic. They were like ‘This is going to help out so much,’” said Audrey Kearns, incoming president of the Niles Rotary Club.
When kids are learning in person, laptops are used frequently by older students for everything from research to turning in assignments. Crucial in preparing students for high school, college and beyond, they become even more critical when the school year is spent at home and laptops are not in abundant supply. For the nearly 700 kids that go to Azevada, there are only around 300 Chromebooks to serve them.
When students were sent home last spring, teachers quickly tried to determine who had computer access at home and who would need a laptop. Chromebooks were given first to kids who had no technology and then, increasingly, to those who had other devices—but older, unwieldy, or not user friendly for learning online.
Now, schools are still trying to match their small supply of laptops to kids who need them. Parents contact the school daily requesting laptops, and every Wednesday, schools have to adjust to what they have that day; usually “just a handful of Chromebooks left to hand out,” said Carole Diamond, Azevada’s principal. Though distance-learning has become the norm, supply hasn’t kept up. “A year later, families are still in need,” she said.
By Diamond’s rough estimate, about a third of Azevada’s Chromebooks are older versions, more likely to need repair or replacement. This means the already limited supply is continually dwindling. And, when kids eventually return to in-person learning, condition of returning laptops is unknown. “Some of them might be so beat up and damaged that they’re unusable,” Kearns said.
The Spring Fling fundraiser will hopefully help augment this supply. Though the rotary club is used to fundraising—they have an annual fundraiser every year including auctions, a raffle, and a dinner, they were unsure about a virtual event. “This is brand new for us,” Kearns said, “so it’s been a lot of homework.”
They based the theme of the event on the seminal 1960’s comedy sketch show Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In. “It was just really fun, super iconic, really bright,” Kearns said. The event will include live and silent auctions with skits in the spirit of the show peppered throughout, as well as missives from staff and students at the three schools.
All live auction items and some of the silent auction items will be experiences. “We find [these] do better because people like experiences and they like doing them with their friends,” Kearns said. Some of the experiences up for auction are a weekend at a house on the scenic 17-mile drive in Carmel or use of a Porsche Panamera while staying at the Tickle Pink Inn in Big Sur. Bidding will be accessible by smart phone throughout the event.
The aim is to raise $60,000; funds will go directly to the schools so that they can buy laptops through the district and receive a discount. Kearns hopes the night will be successful and says, “whatever money we raise, it’s money that the schools didn’t have.”
Whatever that may be, Diamond says, “Those Chromebooks are going to go right into kids’ hands as soon as they come in.”
Niles Rotary’s Spring Fling
Saturday, Mar 20
6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
https://one.bidpal.net/niles/welcome
Tickets: Free
Superhero 5k Virtual run
Submitted by City of Union City
The 7th annual “Superhero Fun Run” celebrates the anniversary of the Mark Green Sports Center and helps raise funds and awareness for those affected by Parkinson’s Disease. The Mark Green Sports Center begun its Parkinson’s Exercise Program in 2016, and since then, this event is the kickoff for fundraising. $5 from every registration will be donated to our Parkinson’s Foundation Moving Day team.
The Challenge:
Run, walk, or stroll! The goal is to complete at least 5k (3.1 miles) every week from Sunday, March 14 to Sunday, April 11, 2021. After setting up your account with Challenge Runner (link to be sent one week prior to the event), you will be able to earn badges, and keep track of your progress as well as the progress of everyone entered in the event.
If you are able to complete at least 5k each week for four weeks, you will earn a finisher medal! There will also be chances to win raffle prizes from our local comic shop by completing extra challenges within each week like: most miles run, scavenger hunts around Union City Parks, and more.
Choose any route or path to complete this challenge throughout the four weeks, just make sure to follow safe social distancing measures required in your area.
How document & submit your results
One week prior to the race you will be sent a link to set up an account with Challenge Runner (if you don’t already have an account), and you will submit and update your own miles after each run.
We are operating under the honor system, and as Superheros we know we can trust you to be honest with your tracking. You can keep track of mileage on your smartphone/watch and a running app like MapMyRun or a native app on your phone/watch to time yourself and measure your distance. Or you can pre-plan a course, and simply time yourself.
Win Raffle Prizes!
We have some really cool Superhero prizes for all ages, so as race day approaches look out for the details on how to be entered to win.
Support A Great Cause
Our Parkinson’s Exercise Program in Union City is supported by a grant from the Parkinson’s Foundation made possible by events like Moving Day. For more information, visit www.unioncity.org/parkinsons.
Registering Late?
If you register after the challenge has already begun, that’s okay! You can still earn a medal by completing a total of 12.4 miles before Sunday, April 11.
5k Superhero Virtual Run
Sunday Mar 14 – Sunday Apr 11
Register online and log your own miles
https://www.active.com/running/distance-running-races/superhero-5k-a-week-virtual-challenge-2021
Tri-City Nonprofit Coalition meeting
Submitted by Tina Fernandez-Steckler
Tri-City Nonprofit Coalition’s free March meeting will take place via Zoom on Wednesday, March 10, from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. The meeting will kick off with an ice-breaker followed by a spotlight on local nonprofit organizations Avanzando Newark and the Indo-American Community Foundation. Representatives from each organization will share their nonprofit’s mission, news, needs, and more.
The publisher and editor of the Tri-City Voice Newspaper, William “Bill” Marshak, will then present Fit to Print: Best Practices for News Publication. If you’ve wondered about the essential components of a newsworthy article or preferred image content or quality, Bill Marshak’s talk will enlighten you. Whether you’re a seasoned nonprofit marketing communication professional or a volunteer striving to get your cause on the radar of community members, this topic will help you create (or rethink!) your content!
While the event is free, registration for this Zoom presentation is required. Go to https://tinyurl.com/TCNPCMarch2021ZoomReg to register. You’ll receive an email confirmation with meeting details. Contact TCNPC for questions.
About Tri-City Nonprofit Coalition (TCNPC):
Founded in July 2020 by three Nonprofit Champions — Kathy Kimberlin, Lisa Stambaugh, and Tina Fernandez Steckler — the group’s mission is to strengthen the ability of all Tri-City nonprofit organizations to successfully accomplish their respective missions by collaborating, sharing information, and raising community awareness.
TCNPC’s monthly Zoom meetings are a way for Tri-City Nonprofit Champions to engage, learn, and grow stronger together. The TCNPC website features a nonprofit events calendar, resources, and much more. If you’d like your nonprofit listed on its site, have an event to share, or want to view previous meeting videos, the submission process is easy. Visit https://tcnpc.org.
Tri-City Nonprofit Coalition March meeting
Wednesday, Mar 10
6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Via Zoom, registration required
https://tcnpc.org
Free online opera concert series ‘Triple Treat 2021’
Submitted by Livermore Valley Opera
Livermore Valley Opera will again offer an operatic treat with a series of free online concerts on the LVOpera YouTube Channel. “Triple Treat 2021” features professional opera singers performing in three concerts premiering March 13, April 10 and May 8. All concerts begin at 6 p.m. and are accompanied by LVO Music Director Alexander Katsman. English subtitles will be provided. Following each premiere, concerts will be available on-demand on the LVOpera Channel.
Three Livermore wineries are offering special wine pairings to complement each concert:
March 13
Arias from Tosca plus!
Wine pairing: Big White House & John Evan Cellars
A magical journey with arias from Puccini’s Tosca and other beloved songs sung by four of the principal artists who were to perform in LVO’s March production: soprano Ann Toomey, tenor Alex Boyer, baritone Morgan Smith and lyric tenor Joseph Frank.
Tosca is set in Rome in a country full of rolling hills, olive trees and grapevines, and the 2017 John Evan Cellars Le Corbeau, a 100 percent Merlot, is the perfect accompaniment to these dramatic and passionate arias. Stop by the winery and mention Livermore Valley Opera to receive 25 percent off a purchase of Le Corbeau through March.
April 10
Spring Sing
Wine pairing: Omega Road Winery
Spring is in the air! LVO celebrates life and love with a concert of opera favorites and several of our favorite singers: soprano Elena Galván and her husband tenor Daniel Bates, and bass-baritone, Philip Skinner. Arias include light-hearted duets from Lehar’s Merry Widow, Donizetti’s Elixir of Love, and Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi, plus solo arias from Massenet’s Werther, Strauss’s Die Fledermaus, Verdi’s La Traviata, Beethoven’s Fidelio, Carlisle Floyd’s Susannah, and Lara’s rousing Granada.
This concert is perfectly paired with Omega Road Winery’s Spanish-style Red Blend #8, an enticing blend of Tempranillo and Graciano. Stop by the tasting room or use the online LVOPERA discount code for 15% off this wine for the month of April.
May 8
Celebrating Mother’s Day
Wine pairing: Occasio Winery
Celebrate mothers, featuring LVO favorites, soprano Kristin Clayton and her husband bass- baritone Bojan Knežević. Selections will include Tchaikovsky’s Don Juan Serenade and Dvorak’s “Songs my Mother Taught Me” and “You Are Love” from Jerome Kern’s Showboat. Bojan will perform Marino Marini’s Tu sei per me la piu bella del mondo, a gorgeous romantic song to honor all mothers.
Occasio Winery will offer a Mother’s Day surprise pairing and discount. Check the LVO website for updates.
Though the Triple Treat virtual opera concerts are free, donations are always welcome. Visit www.livermorevalleyopera.com/donate.
Triple Treat 2021
Saturdays: Mar 13, Apr 10, May 8
6 p.m.
Live via YouTube
LVOpera.com
https://www.youtube.com/c/LivermoreValleyOpera
Union City Police Log
Submitted by Union City PD
Tuesday, February 16
• At about 10:29 p.m. Sergeant DeJong made a traffic stop on a vehicle parked behind the restrooms at Arroyo Park. He contacted two passengers, identified by police as Alex Castillo, 46, and Samuel Logoteta, 54. During the investigation, officers found both men were carrying a large amount of cash and more than 130 grams of suspected methamphetamine. Both were arrested on suspicion of possessing narcotics for sale.
Monday, February 22
• At about 8:10 p.m. officers responded to a report about a weapon brandishing in the 3200 block of San Pablo Way. The victim told officers that his tenant threatened to stab him with a large kitchen knife when he was confronted about smoking in the house. The suspect, identified by police as Joseph Venturi, 39, was arrested.
Thursday, February 25
• At about 4:40 p.m. officers responded to a criminal threat report in the 4200 block of Queen Anne Drive. The victim told police that she and the suspect had gotten into an argument earlier in the day. The suspect then sent text messages warning her that he was coming to her home to carry out the threats. Officers arrived and found the suspect as he attempted to flee in his vehicle. They made a traffic stop and detained the driver, identified by police as Joaquin Tenorio, 34. Tenorio admitted to making the threats and allowed officers to search his vehicle where they found a firearm, several rounds of ammunition and more than 27 grams of suspected methamphetamine. Additional weapons were seized from Tenorio’s home. Tenorio was arrested and faces various weapon and drug sales charges.
Friday, February 26
• At about 8:35 a.m. officers responded to the report of a man with a gun on Lilac Street and Silsby Avenue. The caller told police that the suspect, later identified as Kendrick Roby, 32, held a handgun with an extended magazine while he argued with another person and threatened to shoot people. Field Training Officer Fraga located Roby, but he immediately fled in his vehicle. Officers pursued the car a short distance until Roby pulled over. During the investigation, officers determined that Roby discarded the loaded firearm on the street during the pursuit, which officers later recovered. A record check showed Roby had two active felony arrest warrants. He was arrested and faces an additional weapons charge and a charge of evading a police officer.
• At about 7:05 p.m. officers responded to a weapon brandishing in the 2600 block of Decoto Road. The victim told police that the suspect, identified by police as Stanley Smith, 49, thrust a sword toward her face and almost stabbed her. Officers located Smith crossing the street and arrested him on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon. They also obtained a search warrant for his residence and seized several weapons.
Sunday, February 28
• At about 5:42 p.m. officers responded to the 32300 block of Jean Drive for a report of a shooting. The caller told police that they heard an argument between the occupants of two cars. After a short dispute, several gunshots rang out, and the vehicles quickly fled the area. Officers arrived on the scene and didn’t locate either vehicle but found dozens of shell casings in the street.
Vineyard Vibes & More
Submitted by Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center
Livermore Valley Performing Arts Center will offer a new series of free, virtual entertainment with “Vineyard Vibes and More” starting on Sunday, March 14, 2021, featuring the talents of local musicians and comedians. The new series, which builds on the Vineyard Vibes concerts offered from September to November 2020, is scheduled to begin just two days after the one-year anniversary of the closing of the Bankhead Theater due to the pandemic. While it is not yet clear when the County of Alameda will permit the opening of live performance venues again, the virtual format provides an opportunity for artists and audiences to continue to share in a range of entertainment. Vineyard Vibes and More events are scheduled for five Sundays during March and April.
Opening the series on March 14 will be the unique and soulful music of Sunny Promyotin and his band The Black Pack, followed by a screening of comedian and radio personality Faith Alpher’s one-woman hit show “Black Girl, Funny World” on March 21. Three shows recorded live at Retzlaff Vineyards will begin March 28 with the folk and Americana sounds of award-winning singer-songwriter Michael McNevin. The series continues on April 11 with the authentic psychedelic 1960s rock sound of local favorite LunaFish, and will deliver a hilarious evening of laughs on April 18 with comedians Regina Stoops and Stacey Gustafson.
Artists are supporting the series by donating their time and talents; all Vineyard Vibes & More events are available free to the public, although advance registration is required for online access. Attendees are encouraged to support the series with a donation when placing a ticket order, and a virtual “Tip Jar” for performers is available onscreen during the event and immediately after. Access to the performance continues for 24 hours after each Sunday event’s 6 p.m. start time. The local community has also continued to support this effort with Retzlaff Vineyards making their outdoor stage available for socially-distant performances and all recording and editing donated by local full-service video production agency Advance Creative Group. “Vineyard Vibes and More” is made possible, in part, by the Bankhead Theater’s 2020-2021 Season Sponsor UNCLE Credit Union.
More information and tickets are available at www.LivermoreArts.org.
2021 Vineyard Vibes & More
Sundays, 6 p.m.
Mar 14 – Sunny & The Black Pack
Mar 21 – Faith Alpher’s “Black Girl, Funny World”
Mar 28 – Michael McNevin
Apr 4 – (no event)
Apr 11 – LunaFish
Apr 18 – Regina Stoops & Stacey Gustafson
FREE, registration required for online access
www.LivermoreArts.org
State Champions need help to attend national competition
Submitted by Nicole Santos
Irvington High School’s We the People team is the 2020/2021 California State Champion and will be competing in the 34th We the People National Finals! This is only the second time in Irvington history and the first time in 15 years, that the We the People team has won the state competition and advanced to the national finals.
The team launched a GoFundMe to raise funds to help cover the costs associated with competing on the national level such as competition fees and team photos.
To view the GoFundMe please visit: https://gf.me/v/c/b23g/2021-we-the-people-national-finals-irvington-hs
OBITUARY OF WILLIAM AMON DARK JR.
November 7, 1934 – February 11, 2021
Resident of Fremont and Pleasanton
William A. Dark, Jr., 86, of Fremont and Pleasanton, passed away peacefully on February 11, 2021.
William was born to William and Evelyn Dark in South Gate, California on November 7, 1934. He grew up in Alhambra and Arcadia, California. After graduating from Alhambra High School, he served in the Army Security Agency from 1954 to 1956, stationed in Kenai, Alaska. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from Whittier College.
William was a faithful and devoted husband to Anitra Blythe Haggard Dark for 61 years. He was steadfast and loving father to daughters Julie Dark (& Edward Ward) of Union City CA, Christi (& Jeff) Ferreira of Yuba City CA, Nancy (& Larry) Merriman of Anchorage, Alaska, and grandchildren Schuyler (& Melissa) Ferreira and Rhianna Merriman.
His charm and genuine spirit brought William success in a long career in the steel and wire industry in manufacturing, purchasing and sales.
After his wedding to Anitra in 1959, the couple lived in Arcadia, California. Following the birth of their third daughter in 1967, they moved to Fremont. William’s job transfer took the family to Houston Texas for five years, and they returned to their Fremont, CA home in 1985. In 2015, William and Anitra moved to Pleasanton, CA to enjoy retirement.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Centerville Presbyterian Church, Fremont, CA.
A Memorial Service will be held March 23 at Berge Pappas Smith Chapel of the Angels, Fremont, CA. A virtual service will be hosted concurrently. Contact Berge Pappas Smith for details.
Women’s History Month events
Submitted by SAVE
International Women’s Day
Every year we gather to celebrate the talented women in our community with cultural performance, spoken word, skit, dance, or song. This year will be no different! On this day, we will share performances on SAVE’s Facebook and YouTube Channel to celebrate amazing women, all day long! Follow us so that you can watch the performances.
Mondays: #Herstory
Every Monday in March, we will share a story of a lesser-known woman who changed history on our social media. Share these inspiring stories with your social circles! We kicked off #Herstory yesterday, by remembering Pauli Murray, a Black, queer, feminist trailblazer who was at the front of the Civil Rights Movement and raised the first conversation on intersectionality!
Wednesdays: #AShortWalk
Every Wednesday in March, we will share SAVE’s podcast, A Short Walk, highlighting voices of change, shaping the IPV (Intimate Partner Violence) movement.
https://www.ashortwalkcast.org/episodes
Fridays: #MovementMakers
Join us every Friday in March, on Facebook at 11 a.m., as we livestream a conversation with young leaders of today, highlighting changemakers and movement makers! On March 5, we talked to Audin Leung, co-founder and Political Director of Free the Period. They are instrumental in producing the Menstrual Equity for All Act 2021, which would make free menstrual products available for nearly all public buildings in CA.
[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
