Arts Mosaic community street fair
Submitted by Sherri Plaza
Photos courtesy of Mission San Jose Chamber of Commerce
The Mission San Jose (MSJ) Chamber of Commerce is excited to showcase local artists and microbusinesses at the second annual “Arts Mosaic,” a free community street fair on Saturday, April 27 along Ellsworth Street in Fremont. Ellsworth will be transformed into a closed street from the Washington Boulevard/Ellsworth intersection to the now closed McIvor Hardware building, making it a safe and vehicle-free zone for the community to enjoy the fair. You’ll be able to stroll around and enjoy artisan vendors, art- and cultural-focused activities for all ages, entertainment, food and community.
There will be plenty to see and do at Arts Mosaic, including live entertainment from Dream Achievers and The California Kid, an interactive Bombay Jam demonstration by Sol Studios, art projects and games for kids, Yoga as You Are mini-classes, a community poetry project, food trucks, beer and wine, and 30+ vendors selling their unique products. What a perfect opportunity to purchase a special Mother’s Day gift!
While you’re in the area, walk around the neighborhood and enjoy other Mission San Jose arts and culture highlights: Old Mission San Jose Museum, Olive Hyde Art Gallery, Museum of Local History, and the nearby Mission Peak trail.
MSJ Chamber of Commerce’s focus is to facilitate neighbors meeting neighbors while enjoying our local artists showcasing their talents, whether it’s a craft, a painting, a ceramic, a poem, a yummy bite, music, dance, and smiles. The Mission San Jose Chamber of Commerce is proud to sponsor this event to foster civic engagement, economic development, and beautification of our community. The more the merrier!
Special thank you to the sponsors of Arts Mosaic – City of Fremont, Alameda County Supervisor David Haubert, Tavares Realty and Associates, and Mission San Jose residents and in-kind sponsor HERS Breast Cancer Foundation. We couldn’t do it without everyone’s efforts and contribution!
Parking for Arts Mosaic can be found along the streets adjacent to the area, along Mission Boulevard and at the public parking lot across from St. Joseph’s Church. For more information about Arts Mosaic Mission San Jose, including vendor list and schedule of events, visit the event website at www.hopp.bio/msjchamber.
Arts Mosaic
Saturday, Apr 27
11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Ellsworth St., Fremont
Arts, Culture & Creativity Month Culminates with City Center Celebration
Submitted by Phyllis Wood
The Fremont Creates Grand Finale celebrating April is Arts, Culture & Creativity Month is this Saturday, April 27, 2024, and You Are Invited! This celebration culminates the month-long, city-wide focus on the arts. Bring the whole family to experience Fremont’s diverse artistic talent and multi-cultural influence. See dance performances, hear music and the spoken word, get creative in the Makerspace, and enjoy the culinary arts from the Food Truck Mafia.
Simultaneous activities will take place in the event center and on the plaza:
- Booths with materials on topics relevant to the arts in Fremont (Plaza)
- Food Trucks from Food Truck Mafia (Plaza)
- Vocal and instrumental musical groups (Outdoor Stage)
- Dance, music, and theatrical performances (State Room)
- Exhibits and spoken word (Capitol Room)
- Makerspace with hands-on activities (Liberty Room)
- Videos highlighting artistic endeavors throughout the City (Lobby)
A schedule of the times and performances is posted on FremontCreates.com so you can plan your day. Parking is available in the adjacent parking lot and surrounding streets.
Just a reminder: Fremont Open Studios is the same weekend, April 27 – 28, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. See FremontOpenStudios.com for studio locations. There is no charge to visit the studios.
We are grateful for the support of our generous sponsors from throughout the community. You have made this event a reality; we could not have brought this cultural experience to the City without your support.
We wish to acknowledge our Visionary of the Arts, Champions of the Arts, and Patrons of the Arts:
City of Fremont
- Supervisor David Haubert, Alameda County Supervisor, District 1
- Niles Rotary Foundation
- Brandon T. Sass, Primerica Investment Advisor
- Scott Capen Photography
- Olive Hyde Art Guild
- Washington Hospital Healthcare System
Arts, Culture, and Creativity Month Grand Finale
Saturday, Apr 27
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Downtown Event Center
3500 Capitol Ave., Fremont
FremontCreates.com
Hop, hop, hop to Downtown Hayward for literary showcase
By Stephanie Gertsch
On Saturday, April 27, Hayward will hold its third annual “Lit Hop,” an event to introduce this year’s Hayward Poet Laureate and celebrate the creativity and literary talent of Hayward and Bay Area writers.
The event begins at 2 p.m. with a musical performance at Heritage Plaza, courtesy of the 30-piece East Bay Symphonic Band. At 2:45 p.m., the event will transition into its literary portion with an announcement of Hayward’s 2024 Poet Laureate and Youth Poet Laureate, by Hayward Mayor Mark Salinas and a representative from State Senator Aisha Wahab’s office. The two poet laureates will give a poetry reading.
The “hop” portion of the event starts at 4 p.m. Members of 13 local writers’ groups will be reading their work at eight historic and much-loved venues concentrated in downtown Hayward, mostly on B Street. (Everything is a five- to 10-minute walk from Hayward BART station for those who prefer not to drive.) A full schedule is posted on the Hayward Lit Hop website (https://haywardlithop.com/), but a few groups include the Hayward Peer Writers, AfroSurreal Writers Workshop of Oakland, Women Who Submit Lit, and Bay Area Queer Writers—as well as students from Cal State East Bay, and Chabot College students who will do a bilingual English and Spanish reading.
Dr. Maria Ochoa, who will be reading with Women Who Submit Lit, says, “My work as a writer is primarily in creative non-fiction and fiction. Although I’ve been known to drop a line or two of poetry. I’ll be reading from my creative non-fiction writing that reflects my experiences as a Chicana elder. The writing is a combination of serious reflection with a healthy dollop of humor.” She reflects, “Hayward Lit Hop is especially meaningful because our town is richly diverse in the cultural expressions of its residents. It is great that we will be presenting in languages which represent the display of our diversity.”
Trinie Dalton, of CSU East Bay Creative Writing team, says, “Participating in Lit Hop gives our students a fun, meaningful opportunity to practice literary citizenship, to discover links between college education and our world at large, and to find new avenues for imagining creative space.” Readers this year include editors from the school’s literary magazine Occam’s Razor, which has run for over forty years.
Venues provide a bit of Hayward culture to complement the readings. Of course, Books on B will be participating. Others include Ska Dog Records, The Dirty Bird Lounge, Kin Café, and The World Famous Turf Club. The event concludes with an after party at Odd Fellows Lodge with live background music, and free food from Golden Safari, Marley’s Treats, and Vypassetti Cake Pops. (The Women’s National Book Association, also reading at the Lit Hop, helped with the food budget.)
For those who want to meet local creatives, enrich their literary world, or just hop around downtown Hayward for a bit, it’s an afternoon to enjoy.
Hayward Lit Hop
Saturday, Apr 27
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Various locations
B St., Hayward
Applications for Alameda County Youth Poet Laureate Open For 2024-2025 Term
By Nanki Kaur
Poetry has always found a way to connect thought with emotion, discussing a variety of subjects through deliberate and graceful phrasing of words. Alameda County has developed a youth-centered program to spotlight poetry’s potential to make a difference in our communities while fostering a fondness for language among younger generations.
The Alameda County Library Foundation has opened applications in search of the next Youth Poet Laureate for the 2024-2025 term. This is a unique opportunity for young poets to utilize their writing talents to voice messages of “civic engagement, social justice, cultural awareness, and literary excellence” throughout the community.
The position of Youth Poet Laureate (YPL) entails a responsibility much more profound than simply spreading a love for literature. The YPL forges a bridge between the community through the power of poetry, using their platform to speak at public events, voice their values and opinions, and share their experiences and writing processes during their one-year term.
Brian Guan, Alameda County YPL for the 2023-2024 term, shared that the role offered him opportunities he would not have been able to experience otherwise. “Being the Youth Poet Laureate has allowed me to delve deeper into my own kinship with poetry. It’s a role that incorporates poetry and public speaking but also lets you take the initiative to plan your own projects that you want to do within the role.”
During his term, Guan planned and hosted a college admissions workshop with a panel of collegiate-level poets at the Albany Library, something he says he was able to do with the resources and leadership opportunities provided by the Foundation.
Guan was also able to perform his poetry and speak at multiple events, including at the Ashland Youth Center, allowing him a new perspective into the “Bay Area gems” he would not normally have had the opportunity to visit. “Getting to engage with different communities in the different spaces they hold, has given me a new perspective in what we offer to youth and what the value of public facilities really are.”
Along with the opportunity to explore their own interests via projects and initiatives that can be taken as the YPL, the role also allows poets to make connections with youth from around the Bay Area and make a direct impact on their perception of not only literature but also themselves. “More than anything, this position has taught me to value my own voice,” Guan noted. “I was able to recognize my duty to spread that value to others, by encouraging elementary students to understand that their voices matter.”
He encourages all teens and young creatives with a passion for poetry, learning about the “intricacies of crafting language,” and social justice to apply. “YPL as much as it is a title, as much as an honor as it is, it is also an opportunity to create change and spotlight issues within your community. That’s something I would try to remember as an applicant.”
His advice to prospective applicants is to “embrace that there’s nothing to lose. There are wonderful platforms you will be able to get access to so you can voice your values and concerns that you wouldn’t otherwise.”
Applications are due April 30th. More details can be found on the Alameda County Library website: aclibrary.org/youth-poet/
Enjoy a Fun-Filled Day with the Family in Downtown Hayward
Submitted by Nick Yoo, Assistant District Manager of the Downtown Hayward Improvement Association
Nestled in the East Bay, Downtown Hayward is a vibrant walkable community filled with friendly locals, beautiful sights, historic buildings and innovative businesses.
Start the family trip by exploring the Hayward Public Library (with a convenient public parking garage next door), which in addition to shelves filled with stories and adventure, hosts programs and events for kids of all ages. Located right across the street is Heritage Plaza, and open space with trees a Children’s Garden and an event lawn that hosts cultural events, musical performances, and civic gatherings throughout the year.
The Hayward Farmers Market is located on Watkins, between B and C Streets, next to Hayward City Hall Plaza. Locals come together every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. to enjoy fresh and sustainable produce and shop from local artisans.
You can extent your shopping adventures at local shops such as Vintage Alley, Books on B. Or try downtown restaurants, such as Craft Pizzeria and Sector 19, a newly renovated arcade room next door. Other eateries include, Buffalo Bills, Aama’s Kitchen, The Cupcake Shoppe, and
Marley’s Treats.
A Look Ahead
Beyond the incredible restaurants and local businesses to visit in the neighborhood, Downtown Hayward is livening up with family friendly events set to take place throughout the rest of the year. Join in the festivities at the 39th Annual Cinco De Mayo Celebration taking place at the intersection of B and Main Streets in Downtown Hayward on Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. La Alianza de Hayward invites the community to experience a day brimming with cultural vibrancy and community unity. Attendees can explore arts and crafts activities, marvel at bicycle and pedal car shows, savor the flavors of local food and drink vendors, and enjoy live music and dance performances. With dynamic acts like Third Sol and Prieto & His Mirage Band, the event guarantees non-stop entertainment for attendees of all ages.
Next up is the Hawaiian May Day Festival, taking place on Saturday, May 11 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Presented by the Kuma Hula Association of Northern California, the festival is free to attend and celebrates Hawaiian culture and traditions through Hawaiian music and dance performances, arts and crafts activities, local-style Hawaiian cuisine, and more. The streets of Downtown Hayward, between B Street and Main Street, will be filled with the flavors and sounds of the Hawaiian Islands, and the community is invited to come out and celebrate.
Be sure to mark your calendars for summer celebrations in Downtown Hayward. There is no shortage of fun activities for the family to enjoy!
For the latest updates on Downtown Hayward Improvement Association, visit visithaywardca.com, or follow us on Instagram @DowntownHayward, and Facebook @DowntownHaywardCA.
Writing a short story versus writing a novel
Submitted by Nancy Guarnera
Whether you choose to write a short story or a novel, there are obviously some stylistic choices writers have to make—length, for one. However, what are the not so obvious choices that make a short story yearn to be a novel and vice-versa? Fiction writer and creative writing teacher, Irene Zabytko will discuss some stylistic techniques for developing short stories and ways to grow them into novels.
Irene Zabytko is a writer, filmmaker, and teacher. She completed her 2016-2017 tenure as a Fulbright U.S. Scholar Award in Ukraine where she was doing research on her next novel The Riddle of my Existence, based on the life of the 19th century Ukrainian writer, Nikolai Gogol.
Zabytko’s first book, The Sky Unwashed (Algonquin Books, 2000), is a novel about Chornobyl and the evacuees who returned to their irradiated villages. It was a Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers Book, A Book Sense ‘76 Pick Selection, and a New England Booksellers Association Discovery title. The e-book version was Number One on Amazon.com and appeared on “The New York Times Bestseller E-Books List.”
She was the writer, co-director (with Peter Mychalcewycz), and producer for the award-winning documentary film short, “EPIPHANY AT CHORNOBYL,” loosely based on her novel. It screened at colleges, film festivals, with a worldwide stream at the 2016 Culture Unplugged Film Festival.
Zabytko’s second book, the short story collection When Luba Leaves Home (Algonquin Books, 2003) is based on the Ukrainian community in her Chicago neighborhood. One of the stories, “Obligation,” won the PEN Syndicated Fiction Award, and was read on National Public Radio’s “The Sound of Writing.”
Her latest book is The Days Of Miracle And Wonder: Stories, a short story collection set in post-Soviet Ukraine. (A revised and agented edition is forthcoming). She is also the author of The Fiction Prescription: How To Write And Improve Your Fiction Like The Great Literary Masters, a non-fiction collection of her lectures on writing literary fiction.
This presentation is FREE to everyone. To get your event link, email a request with “FAW Zoom” on your Subject line to scottfrombayside@yahoo.com. You’ll receive a link on or before the day of the meeting.
You can learn more about Fremont Area Writers (FAW) at cwc-fremontareawriters.org. FAW is one of 22 branches of the California Writers Club (CWC) calwriters.org. All CWC branches welcome new members.
Writing a short story versus writing a novel
Saturday, Apr 27
2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Via Zoom
Request link from: scottfrombayside@yahoo.com
Music For Minors II creates and celebrates!
Submitted by Carol Zilli
Music for Minors II (MFMII) since its inception in 1988, has created and celebrated music in the schools and on professional stages throughout each school year, and April is no exception! MFMII will be participating at the “Fremont Creates Finale” on Saturday April 27th at the City Event Center on Capitol Avenue by having a homemade instrument-making booth in the Center and our youngest musical ambassador and YouTube Star, Bella Dong, along with MFMII troubadour, Barry Walter, guitarist and vocalist, will offer their musical skills on the outdoor stage.
The very next day, April 28th, MFMII is sponsoring our annual, exciting Children’s Showcase, “United We Sing,” at the Castro Valley Center for the Performing Arts at 3 p.m. We welcome the community to experience the joyful voices of over 200 children from FUSD and NUSD schools in grades TK to 4th grade before an audience of 500! MFMII volunteer music Docents have prepared their students to perform during their weekly MFMII classroom lessons. For tickets visit www.musicforminors2.org/showcases.
MFMII will also feature our youngest music Docent, Minna Fu, an incredible award-winning pianist, and our ever-popular 60-member MFMII Kids Choir directed by former Docent and professional musician, Mrs. Lydia Concepcion. Guest MC will be the talented and renowned Brandon T. Sass of Fremont.
The MFMII Kids Choir numbering 61 members will also provide wonderful community entertainment at their annual free “Sing for Spring” Concert on May 10th at Niles School in Fremont. Look for another standing ovation event as these children sing their hearts out with signing and choreography.
Winners of our third annual MFMII’s Got Talent (MGT) contest will be announced at the Showcase. MFMII received 100 entries this year from children in FUSD and NUSD who submitted their musical talent in 2 min. videos that are shared on our website for the popular vote straw poll which ended on April 20th. Excitement is in the air as children await the results.
Thank YOU to some of our Showcase sponsors and donors: Morris Memorial Foundation, 4 Imprint, San Jose Barracudas, and Docent Minna Fu. We appreciate the generosity of this support in this special fundraiser that enables the students to unite and shine in song. Proceeds benefit the support of our dedicated and wonderful volunteer music Docents who share the joy of music each week with children.
MFMII continues to create, motivate and celebrate arts education to balance us and feed our brains while touching our hearts. Annually we recruit, train and support community volunteers who become music Docents sharing weekly lessons in the schools. Docents partner with classroom teachers to reinforce school curriculum through the powerful learning tool of music.
Fall Docent Training begins with an orientation on September 10. If you love music and children and know that music is essential for their physical and emotional development and academic success, then taking the FREE training is for YOU! Visit www.musicforminors2.org to learn how. Please join us in our mission of keeping music in children’s classrooms and lives and on professional stages for a healthier, happier, and hopeful future!
National Help a Horse Day: April 26, 2024
Submitted by Ohlone Humane Society
Painting by Cherryl Pape
The government’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for overseeing the wild range lands left in America. On some of those 26.9 million acres of public lands across 10 Western states live wild horses and burros. As great as this sounds for the horses and burros to run free and graze to assist in shrub control, the government has to oversee the health and population of these native animals.
Problems are similar to cities with overpopulation of community cats. To manage the lands and herds, the government started the Wild Horse and Burro program that not only cares for the animals but tries to match animals to appropriate individuals, sanctuaries and rescues to purchase or adopt them. In 2023, the BLM program placed over 8,000 horses and burros into new living quarters, homes or businesses. The BLM has an educational program with an activity book for children.
Newark State of the City Address
Submitted by Kathy Slafter
On Saturday, April 27, join Newark Mayor Michael K. Hannon as he delivers the 2024 State of the City Address. This year’s address is being held in conjunction with the Old Town Streetscape Exhibition. Learn about the city’s achievements and plans for the future, and discover the potential of Thornton Avenue and Old Town.
The event kicks off with the State of the City Address, followed by an exhibition of the Old Town Streetscape project. Plus: interactive public art, Taste of Old Town food tour, Ballet Folklorico dancers, photo booth, and more!
Newark State of the City Address
Saturday, Apr 27
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Thornton Ave.
Between Sycamore & Newark Streets, Newark
Take a stroll in Simone’s Newark Studio
Submitted by Parul Parekh
Join us for the Tri-City Open Studios on Saturday, April 27 to Sunday, April 28 sponsored by Fremont Art Association and Fremont Creates as a part of the annual celebration of the arts.
This event is free and open to the public to navigate through the open studio at their own pace and time and explore the unique artworks. It is a wonderful opportunity to meet the local artists Simone Archer, Helen Neilsen, Sheryl Klingenfuss and Parul Parekh in person and engage in conversation about their stories, techniques and learning what inspires them.
There will be a diverse range of artworks from oil painting, macrame, jewelry and fiber art from these talented artists. These unique artworks that may speak to you will be available for sale. To plan your tour visit, go to fremontopenstudios.com.
Tri-City Open Studios
Saturday – Sunday, Apr 27-28
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
36541 Cherry St., Newark
Park District Set to Receive $1.38 Million in Federal Funds for Wildfire Mitigation Work in the East Bay
Submitted by Jen Vanya
The East Bay Regional Park District will receive $1,380,000 in federal funding secured by U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell (D-CA14) for wildfire mitigation and safe, resilient forest work. On Saturday, March 23, 2024, President Biden signed bipartisan funding legislation, which included the funding request for East Bay Regional Park District’s wildfire mitigation work.
“The federal funds secured by Representative Swalwell will reduce wildfire risks by removing hazardous vegetation from the East Bay hills,” said Park District Board President Elizabeth Echols. “The Park District Board and staff are grateful to Representative Swalwell for his leadership and contributions toward improving wildfire safety.”
The new funding will help thin and remove vegetation, specifically dead and dying trees in areas of Anthony Chabot Regional Park. In the fall of 2020, while conducting ongoing vegetation management work, Park District staff noticed significant tree die-off in its parks. Further investigation identified over 1,500 acres of dead and dying trees within Regional Parks, mostly eucalyptus, but also bay and pine.
“I was proud to secure nearly $1.4 million in Community Project Funding for the East Bay Regional Park District,” said Congressman Eric Swalwell (CA-14). “The Park District’s leadership in vegetation management and wildfire mitigation projects reduce the ongoing risk of catastrophic wildfire, keeping our homes safe throughout the East Bay and California.”
Wildfire safety is one of the Park District’s top priorities. Year-round efforts include monitoring fire danger and weather, maintaining professionally trained full-time and on-call firefighters, maintaining specialized wildland firefighting equipment, and removing flammable vegetation to reduce wildfire risks.
“We thank Representative Swalwell for his support and leadership in prioritizing the region’s wildfire mitigation work,” said Park District General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “This funding will allow the Park District to continue its interagency collaborative work at the local, state, and federal level.”
The funding will help reduce the risk of a catastrophic wildfire and create fire-resilient landscapes, which also lessen ongoing mitigation and maintenance costs. The Park District’s vegetation management plan includes providing valuable habitat for threatened plants and wildlife such as the pallid manzanita, monarch butterfly, and Alameda whipsnake.
The Park District continues to work with its federal, state, and regional partners to secure additional funding for the project.
13th Ride the Rails for Relay
Submitted by Cathy Norvell
There is still time to get tickets for Ride the Rails for Relay! This event, taking place on Sunday, April 28, raises funds for the American Cancer Society. Niles Canyon Railway has generously donated their time and equipment for three train rides, departing from the Sunol Depot at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.
There will be free wine tasting on board the train, and snacks and additional beverages available for purchase. Trains run in all weather; tickets are nonrefundable. Tickets can be purchased online at The Cure Crusaders Relay for Life Team page. Include a note that the purchase is for the Ride the Rails for Relay event.
For more details, contact Cathy Norvell at cn63Ln73@gmail.com or (510) 701-9005.
13th Ride the Rails for Relay
Sunday, Apr 28
Train departures: 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m.
Niles Canyon Railway Sunol Depot
6 Kilkare Rd., Sunol
http://main.acsevents.org/goto/cathynorvell
cn63Ln73@gmail.com
(510) 701-9005
Tickets: $25 adults; $15 children 2 – 12; children under 2 ride free
Portraiture—Beyond Pure Representation
Submitted by Lina Melkonian
The Fremont Art Association (FAA) is delighted to have Sandra Smith-Dugan as the guest artist at its virtual General Meeting and Art Demo on Wednesday, May 1, at 1 p.m.
Smith-Dugan is an accomplished painter known for her expressive seascapes, landscapes, and figurative work. In her demo, “Portraiture—Beyond Pure Representation,” Smith-Dugan will share her process and approach to gouache portraiture. Using a live model, she’ll show the different phases of development as she evaluates and edits her work in creating an emotive portrait.
Smith-Dugan was born into a creative family. Her mother, an accomplished artist, held a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting; and her father was active in the local theater. While it may be that Smith-Dugan was destined to become an artist, it is her strong work ethic, curiosity and dedication to lifelong learning that has led up to her successful art practice. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in painting and drawing from San Jose State University and has studied at the San Francisco Art Institute, UC Santa Cruz, and various professional workshops.
Smith-Dugan’s core artistic approach is rooted in her fascination with the intrinsic character of her subjects be they depictions of nature, urban structures, or the human figure. Her landscapes possess a contemplative quality affirming that she takes the time to see and experience nature in recreating the sublime through her unique lens. Her figurative work exhibits her commitment to honestly capture and express the essence of her subjects.
Beautiful colors, lines, brushstrokes, and compositions informed by the underlying mood, energy and feeling of the places and people Smith-Dugan chooses as subjects, define her body of work.
Smith-Dugan and her work have been featured in numerous solo and group shows and publications. She is currently a member of California Art Club, American Impressionist Society, Laguna Plein Air Painters Association, and Los Gatos Art Association.
You may view Smith-Dugan’s work at:
https://www.smith-dugan.com/
https://www.instagram.com/smithdugan/
https://www.facebook.com/smithdugan/
The demo (free to attend) will be held via Zoom. Participants must register in advance and will receive the Zoom link via email. All details may be found on the Fremont Art Association webpage: www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo.
FAA General Meeting and Art Demo
Wednesday, May 1
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Online via Zoom
Register at:
www.fremontartassociation.org/monthlymeetinganddemo
The Birth of Niles
Submitted by Kelsey Camello
Do you know the real story of the birth of Niles? April 28, 1870 was when the Niles Junction first came to life.
On April 28, come to Niles Downtown for a railroad film, a history presentation, and of course–a slice of cake! The event starts at 1 p.m. at the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum.
The event is free, but donations to the film museum are gladly accepted.
Niles Birthday Celebration
Sunday, Apr 28
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum
37417 Niles Blvd., Fremont
Union City Bike Park
By Jack Alcorn
Photos source Union City Bike Park Advocates
A new BMX Bike Park may be in the works for Union City. Plans for the exciting recreation venue were presented at the April 9 Union City Council meeting by Bob Singer, on behalf of Union City Bike Park Advocates.
The presentation outlined a proposal to convert a three-acre section of the Alameda Creek Regional Trail in Union City into a modern bike park. The proposal includes plans for a dirt “jumpline” racing track; an asphalt course with berms, hills and drop-ins; and toddler tracks with obstacles for improving balance and coordination. Plans are for the park to be free and open to the public.
The site for the bike park is the Alameda Creek Regional Trail entrance at Union City Boulevard and Eastin Drive in Union City. This small park is a popular destination for dog walkers. It features a four-mile flat trail along the north shore of Alameda Creek that leads to an impressive panoramic view of the bay. Hikers may also access the Alameda Creek trail eastward to Quarry Lakes and Niles Canyon.
Constructed in 1973, this East Bay Regional Park District property was designated as the Alameda County Stables. Adjacent to the parking lot and equestrian staging are several acres of cleared land with the remains of a stable facility. Horseback riders can still occasionally be seen using the park.
Union City Bike Park Advocates (UCBPA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit with a simple vision:
- Build and maintain a multi-use bike park in Union City
- Provide an open space for multi-generational outdoor activity
- Offer riding skills and safety programs
- Offer scholarships to BMX riders
UCBPA has coordinated two independent site assessments; facilitated discussions with potential corporate sponsors and brought the idea to the attention of County, City, and Park District leaders.
During the February 8 meeting of the East Bay Regional Park District, the Board was open to a Memorandum of Understanding or lease agreement regarding the park’s potential. The Union City Parks & Recreation Commission gave a unanimous statement of general support at its February 14 meeting.
Alameda County District 2 Supervisor Elisa Marquez committed to leveraging resources to seeing this “important community project” move forward. This includes identifying county funds to support a park feasibility study.
Next steps for moving the bike park forward are to conduct a formal feasibility study and solicit community input. The community led Union City Bike Park Advocates has asked the Union City Council for a statement of support and a commitment to taking over leadership of the project.
For more information visit www.unioncitybikeparkadvocates.org
EARTHTALK
From the Editors of E – The Environmental Magazine
Dear EarthTalk: I’m alarmed that a cement plant plans expansion behind our home. What are the potential health and environmental impacts of such a facility?
Cement is a component of concrete, mortar and other materials. It has many uses as a binding product—roads, sidewalks and patios would be very different without it. Cement production does have health and environmental risks. Manufacturing plants release sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide (NOx) and carbon monoxide. Also, particulate matter, lead and mercury are produced from heating limestone, which is linked to worsening asthma, heart attacks and premature death in those with heart or lung disease.
While those living near cement plants have complained for decades about health and environmental effects, complaints carry more weight with data to back them up. A scientific review published in Chemosphere in 2019 suggests an increased risk of respiratory tract cancers for those living in proximity to cement plants. Higher levels of heavy metals and indications of kidney toxicity were found in people living in areas near cement plants. The review, however, found that many scientific studies had a risk of bias, leading the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to study air, water and soil quality in a cluster of industrial sites where cement is produced in Dallas, Texas. “There haven’t been a lot of studies on [cumulative impact],” says the EPA’s Aimee Wilson. “So, we want to see what’s there because we don’t know.” The study concludes in July 2024, and results will be available to the public.
The environment is suffering from cement manufacturing, too. The EPA reports that NOx released from the plants contributes to ground-level ozone, acid rain, poor water quality and global warming. And heavy metals carried on the wind or washed into lakes or streams when it rains can have ripple effects through the ecosystem. Another source of environmental contamination is washout containers that have flooded. These large plastic or fiberboard containers temporarily hold water and slurry washed from concrete trucks, pumps and chutes after concrete is poured. When it rains heavily, they are prone to overflow and contaminate groundwater. If you live on a property with a well, you are responsible for ensuring the safety of your own drinking water—all the more reason to be mindful of cement plants in the area.
To ensure health and environmental compliance, these facilities need to be subject to tighter regulations, including more inspections and air quality monitoring. There is also the matter of proximity—right now, a required buffer zone of 440 yards is established between homes, schools and churches. Ongoing studies like the EPA’s Dallas research will better inform guidance and policies moving forward.
If you don’t want to live near a cement plant, organize your community to fight against it. Contact your representatives to educate them on the health risks. Monitor the air quality if you cannot move or avoid a cement plant. Stay indoors and change HEPA filters on your home filtration system when air quality is poor—especially if you have health conditions like asthma or cardiac disease. If you rely on a private water well, ask local health officials about your eligibility for help paying for testing and possible repairs or filters. Get your water tested every year, at a minimum, to make sure it has not become contaminated.
CONTACTS:
Pollutants emitted by a cement plant: health risks for the population living in the neighborhood: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935103001725
Cut Carbon and Toxic Pollution, Make Cement Clean and Green:
https://www.nrdc.org/bio/veena-singla/cut-carbon-and-toxic-pollution-make-cement-clean-and-green
EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk.org.
History Matters
A feature courtesy of The Grateful American Book Prize
Showing our children that their past is a prelude to their future.
By David Bruce Smith
April 16 to April 30, 2024
Battle of Lexington
On April 18, 1775—the eve of the start of the Revolutionary War—the Redcoats uncovered a stockpile of Patriot artillery in Concord. They dispatched troops to scoop up the cache, and arrest the leaders, Samuel Adams, and John Hancock.
History.com says that “by 1775, tensions between the American colonies and the British government had approached the breaking point, especially in Massachusetts, where Patriot leaders formed a shadow revolutionary government and trained militias to prepare for armed conflict with the British troops occupying Boston. In the spring of 1775, General Thomas Gage, the British governor of Massachusetts, received instructions from Great Britain to seize all stores of weapons and gunpowder accessible to the American insurgents. On April 18, he ordered British troops to march against Concord and Lexington.”
The Grateful American Book Prize recommends Avi’s Loyalty. (Aka Edward Irving Worts)
Edison Kinetoscope
Thomas Edison created the Kinetoscope in 1891, but Grey and Otway Latham, their father, Woodville, and Edison Laboratory employee, W.K.L Dickson, conceived 1895’s Panopticon—the first movie projector in America.
According to History.com, “Although motion pictures had been shown in the United States for several years using Thomas Edison’s Kinetoscope, the films could only be viewed one at a time in a peep-show box, not projected to a large audience. Brothers Grey and Otway Latham, the founders of a company that produced and exhibited films of prize fights using the Kinetoscope, called on their father, Woodville, and W.K.L. Dickson, an assistant in the Edison Laboratory, to help them develop a device that would project life-sized images onto a screen in order to attract larger audiences.”
The Grateful American Book Prize recommends Charles Musser’s The Emergence of Cinema: The American Screen to 1907.
First African American drafted to the NBA
In 1891, basketball was “discovered” by graduate student, James Naismith, at the YMCA Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts; fifty-nine years later, on April 25, 1950, an African American was picked to participate in the big leagues.
According to History.com, the Boston Celtics made “Chuck Cooper, an All-American forward from Duquesne University, the first African American to be picked in an NBA draft … With [that] Cooper broke the NBA’s color barrier and [changed] the league for the better … The pick was met with skepticism by some in the NBA, including some of the Celtics’ owners. But Celtics founder and original owner Walter Brown famously said that Cooper could be ‘striped, plaid or polka dot … All I know is the kid can play basketball, and we want him on the Boston Celtics’.”
The Grateful American Book Prize recommends Breaking Barriers: The Chuck Cooper Story by Chuck Cooper III and David Finoli.
The feature is courtesy of The Grateful American Book Prize, which is an annual award given to authors who have created outstanding works of historical fiction or nonfiction for seventh to ninth graders. https://gratefulamericanbookprize.org/
Growing Greens in the Garden
By Madhvika Singh
Photos by Madhvika Singh
Growing leafy greens in your home garden is an easy and gratifying pursuit, and they start rewarding the grower in no time.
Greens can be directly sowed or started indoors. I prefer seeds that do well in my area, and are non-GMO, certified organic. Start by reading the seed packet for factors like spacing, and depth. Some relatively easy to grow greens are chard, kale, lettuce, mustard and spinach. If buying transplants, look for green, healthy-looking plants that are stout rather than lanky and tall. I choose between seeds and transplants based on the amount we will be consuming. For example, our household uses lots of arugula, kale, lettuce and spinach, so I find direct sowing easier. Fenugreek also gets directly sown. On the other hand, although we use a lot of chard and mustard greens, these produce bigger leaves so a couple plants are enough. I start seeds in pots inside and transplant when they are about three inches tall. Direct-sown cool-weather leafy greens prefer warm soil, and 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit (°F) for germination. Transplants can tolerate soil temperatures as low as 40° F.
Greens can be planted as early as fall and in succession until spring. Some might be sensitive to unpredictable temperatures but most do well in this time frame. I like to grow greens in raised beds and containers. To prepare, mix compost or well-aged manure into the soil. Water the soil, and spread seeds on the surface, lightly pressing them down. Cover seeds with a thin layer of soil and water gently. Continue to water just the top surface once or twice per day to make sure the soil does not dry out. Once seeds have germinated and plants put on true leaves, reduce watering frequency, keeping a consistent schedule without letting the soil dry out. Although reapplying fertilizer is not necessary for greens like arugula, lettuce and spinach, you might need to fertilize chard and mustard lightly. While ample sunlight is a must for many vegetables, some greens prefer partial shade, especially in the afternoon.
Weather, soil type, and variety determine when greens can be harvested. Baby lettuce can be harvested as early as five weeks after planting, but chard takes around eight weeks. Some greens, like spinach, can be harvested as soon as the plants put on five to six leaves. To harvest, use a clean knife or scissors to trim, starting with outward leaves, avoiding new growth at the center. Plants that can be harvested this way are called “cut and come again” crops. Some examples are chard, kale, leaf lettuce and spinach. Greens to be consumed raw, like arugula and lettuce, taste much better when picked young. Ones that start to bolt can be used for their flowers. Arugula, kale and mustard flowers impart peppery notes to salads and soups. I add flowers to my dishes uncooked to preserve their delicate taste and texture.
Harvesting is also an opportunity to inspect for pests. While caterpillars and slugs can be handpicked, others might require a pesticide. Follow label instructions to minimize harm. Or consider growing the plants under row covers of agriculture fabric to protect them from pests, birds, and the elements.
Once greens are harvested, gently wash and let excess water drain. If storing, wrap them in a damp towel and store in the refrigerator for best flavor, and consume within a few days. They can be enjoyed in salads and stews, as pizza toppings, in pastas, as sautéed greens, or to replace a burger bun.
Here are some seasonal favorites:
Fenugreek leaf fritters
Ingredients
Fenugreek leaves – Two cups, washed and coarsely chopped
Thai or serrano chilies – Two, deseeded, finely chopped
Chickpea flour or besan – One cup
Ginger – One tablespoon, finely chopped
Lemon juice – One tablespoon
Water – Half cup
Salt to taste
In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients thoroughly into a thick batter without overworking, and let rest for few minutes. Heat frying oil on medium in a deep pan or heavy-bottom wok. Gently drop spoonfulls of batter into the oil and fry until golden brown. Remove fritters with a sieve and lay on a paper towel. Bitter fenugreek is an acquired taste; pair with tangy tamarind chutney to balance the flavors.
Kale chips
Ingredients
Kale leaves – Eight to ten, aim for bigger leaves
Olive oil – One to two tablespoons
Salt to taste
Thoroughly wash kale leaves and dry on a towel, under a fan, or by leaving in an airy place (not in the sun) for a few hours. The moisture must be completely drained for chips to become crisp. Preheat the oven to 275° F. In a mixing bowl, tear leaves off the fibrous “spine” into bite sized pieces. Add olive oil and sprinkle salt. With clean hands or tongs, gently toss ingredients to evenly coat the kale leaves. Place on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for about 10 minutes. Check for “doneness” and bake more if chips are not yet crisp. Time and temperature settings might vary depending on the oven, but the recipe remains the same. Chips can be enjoyed right away as a snack or as a side with soup.
Spinach strawberry salad
Start by layering spinach, merlot lettuce, strawberries, sliced apples and onions in a salad bowl. Top with walnuts, crumbled feta cheese and pickled jalapenos. Add borage, mustard, and radish flowers for a burst of color and flavor. Drizzle with your favorite dressing. Let stand for a few minutes for flavors to incorporate, and enjoy!
Note: This article gives an overview of growing plants, sun and soil requirements, moisture needs etc. Plant health and growth will vary based on various factors. This article is intended for gardening and culinary inspiration only. Please consult your healthcare provider should you have any questions or concerns about adding any new foods or ingredients to your diet.
Fremont’s New Community Services Director
Submitted by City of Fremont
Meet Kim Beranek, Fremont’s new Community Services Director, overseeing Parks & Recreation, Parks Planning & Design, and Urban Forestry. With more than 16 years of dedicated service to the City of Fremont, Kim has served in a variety of capacities, including Aqua Adventure Waterpark General Manager, Recreation Superintendent II and, since 2014, our Community Services Deputy Director. While serving in that role, Kim was involved with the development and ongoing management of the City’s 2022 Parks and Recreation Master Plan, Urban Forestry Management Plan, and the department’s budget.
Kim holds a bachelor’s degree in Recreation Administration from California State University, Chico, managed a large private sector amusement/waterpark, and oversaw the start-up of a $45 million tribal owned and operated lake/waterpark project prior to pivoting to public service. She is a National Recreation & Parks Association (NRPA) Director’s School graduate and a NRPA Certified Park & Recreation Executive (CPRE).
Awareness Can Bring Change
Submitted by Andrea Schacter
“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” -James Baldwin
This simple yet powerful quotation from one of America’s most famous writers reminds us that becoming aware of a situation is the first step to bringing about change.
The League of Women Voters, Fremont-Newark-Union City (LWVFNUC) invites the entire community to become aware of the issues and problems at the Alameda County Jail (also known as Santa Rita Jail) in Dublin.
Nearly 70 people have died while incarcerated at the Santa Rita Jail in the past 10 years. In November of 2021, Maurice Monk, a 45-year-old Oakland man, was left for dead on his bunk with stacks of uneaten food and medications scattered on his cell floor, along with a puddle of urine. No one checked on him for at least 3 days.
Alameda County has paid out millions of dollars in lawsuits related to these deaths. Whether or not one has a personal connection to the Jail, we should all be concerned about what is going on at this government agency that acts in our name. Meet the KTVU investigative journalist who has been covering these stories for 10 years, learn about California Assembly Bill 1185, and hear from the dedicated advocates who are lobbying for change and accountability.
This panel discussion will include the following individuals:
- Lisa Fernandez, KTVU Journalist
- Anne Janks, Coalition for Police Accountability
- Norma Nelson, California LWV Criminal Justice Interest Group
- Judy Zlatnik, Interfaith Coalition for Justice In Our Jails
- Syeda Inamdar (Moderator) Alameda County Sheriff Oversight Coalition
Please plan to attend this FREE community awareness event.
Criminal Justice: Taking A Hard Look at Alameda County Jail (Santa Rita)
Saturday, May 4
10:15 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Niles Discovery Church
36600 Niles Blvd., Fremont
https://lwvfnucmembership.clubexpress.com/
Recall Signature Count
Submitted by Alameda County Registrar of Voters
On March 4, 2024, the Registrar of Voters (ROV) received 123,374 signatures supporting the petition to recall Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price. The ROV examined each signature as legally required and found the number of valid signatures to be sufficient to call for a recall election. The proponents of the recall have been notified.
The ROV will certify the results of the examination of the petition to the County of Alameda Board of Supervisors at the next regular meeting for which an item may be placed on the agenda, which is currently scheduled for April 30, 2024.
The proponents needed a minimum of 73,195 valid signatures. The number of valid signatures on the petition is 74,757. The total number of signatures disqualified is 48,617.
Unified School Districts in Alameda County District 1 receive $50,000 each from Supervisor David Haubert
Submitted by Kathy Kimberlin
The office of Alameda County District 1 Supervisor David Haubert is pleased to announce that he has awarded Livermore, Dublin, Fremont, and Pleasanton Unified Schools Districts $50,000 each to offer scholarships to graduating seniors beginning in 2024 and into the future. The scholarships are designated for students living in District 1 who are foster youth, unhoused, first generation, or low-income students.
Each School District will determine which students are awarded the scholarships and how much the scholarships will be for, but the sustainable funding will support many eligible students well into the future. Scholarships can be utilized for continuing education at trade schools, community colleges, and universities.
“I’m proud to support these students with resources they deserve to assist them in achieving their educational aspirations and gaining the knowledge and skills to successfully join the future workforce of our community,” stated Supervisor Haubert.
Robbery of a USPS Letter Carrier
Submitted by Union City Police Department
On Saturday, April 13, 2024, at approximately 2:19 p.m., a USPS letter carrier was robbed at gunpoint, while working in the vicinity of the 4600 block of Granada Way. The letter carrier sustained minor injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment. The suspects involved remain at large, and despite efforts, have not been apprehended.
The Union City Police Department (UCPD) is not aware of any active threats to the community as a result of this incident. Community members are strongly encouraged to promptly report any suspicious activity to the UCPD.
This incident is currently under investigation by the Union City Police Department's Investigations Unit in collaboration with the USPS. If you possess any information regarding the incident, please reach out to Detective Parodi at (510) 675-5227 or via email at SteffenP@unioncity.org.
Additionally, the USPS seeks public assistance and is offering a reward of up to $150,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect(s). The Postal Inspection Service can be contacted at (877) 876-2455.
Information may be left anonymously at (510) 675-5207 or tips@unioncity.org.
Cougars Report
Submitted by Rachel Kahoalii
Champions of Character
The following Newark Memorial High School athletes were recognized as Champions of Character by their teammates this week:
Sport
Softball
Sophomore Alyvia Costa has been put in positions she’s never played in before and has had to step up to fill her role. She is always learning and asking questions so she is ready for each play. She shows up to practice with a smile on her face and continues to grow and get better every practice.
Sophomore Cassandra Reuelas-Mora is one of the kindest people I know. She shows up to practice and games ready to go and has a great attitude. She is a team player and is always willing to help out others when needed. She is one of the most dedicated and determined players I’ve seen. She never gives up and works extremely hard.
CSUEB Women’s Track & Field at Bryan Clay Invitational and Chuck Buettner Twilight
Submitted by CSUEB Athletic Communications
Select student-athletes from Cal State East Bay women’s track & field competed in the Bryan Clay Invitational on Friday and Saturday April 12 and 13 at Cougar Athletic Stadium, while other select athletes were entered in the Chuck Buettner Twilight, which took place Saturday at Chabot College.
In the Bryan Clay Invitational, four Pioneers were entered in various track events. Below are highlights from the meet.
- With a personal best time of four minutes, 49.45 seconds in the 1,500 meters was Madison Gomez.
- In the 10,000 meters, Kimberly Lima Pardina finished with a personal best time of 36:44.97.
Several track and field events included select Pioneers in the Chuck Buettner Twilight on Saturday. For team scoring, the Pioneers placed fifth among 12 teams, with the most team points among NCAA Division II teams in the meet. Below are highlights from the meet for Cal State East Bay.
- Winning the 400 meters in 1:01.19 was Simryn Parikh.
- Just one place behind Parikh in the 400 meters, less than a tenth of a second behind, was Ashley Trout.
- Aleksandra Martinez placed fourth in the 5,000 meters with a personal best time of 19:41.57.
- Tylar Gallien had two personal best sprints, including 12.85 seconds in the 100 meters and 26.97 seconds in the 200 meters.
- The 4×100 meter relay team of Rymiyah Pringle-Hamilton, Maleah Taylor, Sheelah Carey and Gallien finished second in 49.42 seconds.
- Highlighting the field events for CSUEB was Annah-Bryce Wright, who placed third in the long jump with a mark of 5.01 meters.
Ohlone continues improvement, beats Foothill 12-6
Submitted by Ohlone College Athletics
The Ohlone College women’s badminton team, competing for the first time this season, continues to improve as its inaugural season progresses. On Tuesday, April 16 the Renegades won for the third time over its last five matches, defeating visiting Foothill College by a final score of 12-6.
The Renegades, under the direction of head coach Albert Chow, improved to 4-5 overall as well as 4-5 in Coast Conference play. Ohlone has picked up three wins so far during the month of April.
The Renegades opened with a 20-1 win over Skyline College on April 2, earned a 14-7 victory over Mission College on April 9, and added Tuesday’s win over Foothill.
Ohlone has just two matches left on the regular-season schedule. Up next, the Renegades travel to Skyline College for a Coast Conference match on Thursday (April 25) at 3 p.m.
Alleged homicide suspect fatally shot by police in San Francisco Bay Area
Associated Press
A man linked to a homicide investigation in California's capital was fatally shot Wednesday by police 80 miles (128 kilometers) away in Oakland after he allegedly emerged from a home with a firearm, authorities said Thursday.
Sacramento police officers notified the Oakland Police Department that they were in Oakland investigating a homicide and requested assistance in arresting a suspect, the Oakland Police Department said in a brief statement.
Oakland police officers arrived in West Oakland and were securing the area where the suspect was located when the man exited a house holding a firearm and officers opened fire, killing him, the department said.
The officers gave the man first aid until emergency personnel arrived, but he died at the scene, it said.
The officers involved in the shooting were put on paid administrative leave while the Oakland Police Department’s Homicide Section, Internal Affairs Division, and the Oakland Community Police Review Agency investigate the fatal shooting.
The Oakland Police Department said it couldn't share any other information “to ensure the integrity of the investigation.”
“Additional details will be shared as soon as the investigative process allows and in compliance with the law,” the department said.
Chabot College Host Coast Conference Swim Championships
By Andrew Joseph
Chabot College hosted the 2024 Coast Conference Swim Championships from April 18-20 in Hayward with men and women swimmers from 13 schools from throughout the Bay Area.
West Valley College (Saratoga) came in first place overall with 1,821 points, Chabot College finished in fifth place with 720 points and Ohlone College (Fremont) finished in eighth place with 451 points.
The top 16 performers in each event in California advance to the state championship. Ohlone College had outstanding performances by men’s swimmer Moataz Bayoumi and women’s swimmer Teagan Rees.
Moataz Bayoumi placed first in the men’s 100-yard fly event on day two finals with a time of 53.10, third place in the 100-yard backstroke with 57.02 and fifth place in 100-yard freestyle with 50.32.
“My first-place finish in the 100-meter fly was my favorite moment of the entire season,” said Bayoumi. “I’ve been practicing all year for that race and all my hard work finally paid off.”
Bayoumi is a promising freshman and hopes to continue to improve his performances and transfer to a four-year school to further his swim career.
Teagan Rees competed in three events and her best finish was fourth in the 400-yard IM women’s finals with a time of 5:32.71.
“This is the last meet of the season so you want to do well here and drop times,” said Rees. “We practiced all year for this meet and there was a lot of excitement.”
“The results from this meet exceeded my expectations,” said Ohlone College Head Coach Jensen Chen. “I am very happy about this season and the way our swimmers performed especially Moataz and Teagan.”
Gladiators of the Month
Submitted by Chabot College Athletics
Gladiators of the Month at Chabot Community College for the month of March are Egypt Hughes and Daniel Trampe.
Egypt Hughes a sprinter on the track and field team holds third in state with a 24.65 time in the 200-meter sprint and fourth in state with a 11.98 time in the 100-meter sprint. Hughes also earned a fifth-place finish at the UC Berkeley ‘Cal Invitational’ on March 2.
Daniel Trampe a long-distance runner on the track and field team has a 5K time of 14:15, a Chabot College record also making him a state leader. Trampe is signed to continue a collegiate career as a Santa Clara Bronco.
James Logan Softball Atop League
By Andrew Joseph
The James Logan Colts softball team beat the Moreau Catholic Mariners 11-1 on Thursday, April 18 in Hayward in a league game.
With the win the Colts are now 15-1 overall and undefeated in first place in the Mission Valley Athletic League (MVAL) at 8-0. They have now won 13 straight games with their last loss coming at Bishop O’Dowd 6-5 on March 13.
“It feels good to be in first place and we’ve been in this position the last couple years so now the goal is to go further in the North Coast Section (NCS) playoffs,” said James Logan head coach Mandy Camuso. “We’ve only gotten to the second round of NCS while I’ve been here and we want to go further than that this season.”
The Colts had a commanding lead the entire game, scoring six runs in the first three innings. Starting pitcher Anastasia Marquez had everything going her way as the Mariners struggled the entire game to string hits together. Moreau falls to 5-4 overall and 5-3 in league now sitting at third place in the MVAL.
“Mainly I throw a lot of curves because I’m a spin pitcher so my goal was to make sure I’m doing my part and hitting my spots,” said Marquez.
This Colts team is loaded with great talent and their performance against the Mariners is a showcase of their potential. Ava Medellin had a game high two home runs, including the third inning to go up 5-0 and another in the seventh to give the Colts a 10-1 lead. Medellin also had two homers in the Colts last game at Kennedy High.
“I knew there were runners on base and I wanted to get them in and I was able to do that with my two home runs,” said Medellin.
James Logan is hoping to win league and make a deep push in the NCS playoffs with a successful season thus far. Their next game is Tuesday, April 23 at Newark Memorial in another league matchup.
Pioneer Baseball Shut Out by Coyotes in Series Finale
Submitted by Cal State East Bay Athletics
Cal State East Bay baseball concluded a four game CCAA series against Cal State San Bernardino on Sunday as the Coyotes won 15-0 over the Pioneers.
Game Summary:
The Coyotes got on the scoreboard first in the bottom of the second inning with three runs and would explode for six runs in the bottom of the fourth to lead 9-0.
CSUSB added six more runs over the course of the sixth, seventh and eighth innings for the final score of 15-0.
The Pioneers would get runners into scoring position in the third and seventh innings but could not plate the runners. CSUEB was limited to only three hits on Sunday.
Notable Stats:
- Brenden Bell, Alonzo Guijarro and Niko Mollat had one hit each on Sunday.
- As a relief pitcher, Sergio Calderon pitched 3.0 innings and had five strikeouts.
Records:
Cal State East Bay: 19-24, 11-20 CCAA
Cal State San Bernardino: 19-21, 12-18 CCAA
The final home series of the 2024 season begins on Friday, April 26 as the Pioneers host Chico State in CCAA action. First pitch of the series opener from Pioneer Baseball Field is set for 3 p.m.
Elementary Science Olympiad
Submitted by Sujatha Krishnamachari
The 2024 “Elementary Science Olympiad,” (ESO) organized by Science Gurus, was held on March 22 and 23. March 22 events were in a hybrid mode, with the March 23 events and award ceremony happening in person at American High School in Fremont. A total of 23 teams, each comprising six to eight elementary school students, competed in a total of nine events. For each event, two students were chosen from each team to participate—except the final event, where the entire team participated.
Teams represented Hopkins, Walters, BASIS, and several other middle schools. Team Catalysts took first place with an overall rank score under 30 (with first place scores in individual events having a rank of 1, and subsequent places ranking up to 23).
Congrats to all the students on their diligence and skill!
A painting of Winston Churchill by an artist whose work he hated is up for auction
Associated Press
A portrait of Winston Churchill by an artist whose work the British leader loathed went on display Tuesday at Churchill’s birthplace ahead of an auction in June.
The painting by modernist artist Graham Sutherland was made in preparation for a larger portrait that Churchill hated and which was later destroyed — an episode recounted in the TV series “The Crown.”
The surviving oil-on-canvas study shows Churchill’s head in profile against a dark background. It is expected to sell for between 500,000 pounds and 800,000 pounds ($622,000 and $995,000) at Sotheby’s in London on June 6.
Sutherland was commissioned by the Houses of Parliament to paint Churchill to mark his 80th birthday in 1954. The full-length portrait was unveiled in Parliament that year, with Churchill calling it, with a smirk, “a remarkable example of modern art.”
Churchill is said to have complained that the painting “makes me look half-witted, which I ain’t.” It was delivered to his home and never seen again. The Churchill family disclosed years later that it had been destroyed.
Its fate was recreated with poetic license in an episode of “The Crown” in which Churchill’s wife, Clementine, watches the painting go up in flames.
Andre Zlattinger, Sotheby’s head of modern British and Irish art, said that in the surviving study, “Churchill is caught in a moment of absent-minded thoughtfulness, and together with the backstory of its creation, it gives the impression of a man truly concerned with his image.”
Sotheby’s put the picture on public display inside the room where Churchill was born 150 years ago at Blenheim Palace, a country mansion 60 miles (100 kilometers) northwest of London. Visitors can see it there until Sunday. It will go on show at Sotheby’s offices in New York May 3-16 and London May 25-June 5.
Booming cold drink sales mean more plastic waste. So Starbucks redesigned its cups
By Dee-Ann Durbin AP Business Writer
Booming sales of cold drinks at Starbucks have created a problem: growing amounts of plastic waste from the single-use cups that Frappuccinos, Refreshers, cold brews and other iced drinks are served in.
The coffee giant said Thursday it plans to alleviate some of that waste with new disposable cups that contain up to 20% less plastic. The cups are set to be rolled out to stores in the U.S. and Canada starting this month.
Amelia Landers, Starbucks’ vice president of product innovation, said the Seattle-based company spent the last four years developing the new containers. Engineers tested thousands of iterations to see how much plastic they could remove while still making the cup feel sturdy.
“We feel like it’s industry-leading,” Landers said. “It’s the best expression of a cold plastic cup.”
Starbucks says Frappuccinos and other cold drinks now account for 75% of its U.S. beverage sales, up from 37% in 2013. The company estimates the new cups will keep more than 13.5 million pounds of plastic out of landfills each year. Producing the tumblers also requires less water and creates fewer carbon emissions, a leading cause of climate change, it said.
Starbucks made other changes as part of the redesign. The new cold cups feature raised dots near the bottom, so baristas – including those with impaired vision – can quickly feel with the swipe of a thumb which size cup they’re holding. And the 12-ounce cup — that's the “tall” size in Starbucks lingo — is shorter and wider to accommodate the same-size lid as larger cups.
Landers said the new cups are part of a sustained sustainability push at Starbucks. The company adopted strawless lids in 2019. Last year, it said it would accept customer-provided cups for drive-thru and mobile orders in the U.S. and Canada.
The company plans to roll out a reusable cup program at thousands of stores in Europe, the Middle East and Africa by next year. Under the program, customers will pay a small deposit when they buy a hot or cold drink in a specially designed cup that can be used up to 30 times. They will get the deposit back when they return the cup to a store.
Starbucks also has tested U.S. reusable cup programs in California, Arizona and Colorado.
“Every market has their own challenges, their own requirements and customer behavior. Some are more prime for reusables, some are less prime for reusables,” Landers said. “There is no one silver bullet to a sustainable cup.”
Longer term, Starbucks has said it wants all of its packaging to be reusable, recyclable or compostable by 2030. The reduced-plastic cup making its debut is a small step toward that goal: even though the cup is recyclable, it still was designed for one-time use, Landers said.
The company will continue to explore ways to make single-use cups more sustainable, she said.
“I think we will never take our foot off the gas, evaluating new ways and new methods and new technologies to go further,” she said. “We’re not done.”
Starbucks isn’t the only company rethinking plastic packaging. In some markets, McDonald’s has introduced McFlurry cups without plastic lids, and salad boxes and cutlery made from renewable fiber. Late last year, Coca-Cola said it had developed a bottle made entirely from plant-based sources. Coke produced a limited-run of 900 bottles to show that the technology can be commercially scaled.
Will there be a ‘superbloom' this year in California? Here's what to know
By Suman Naishadham Associated Press
Carpets of yellow, orange and gold flowers are beginning to cover Southern California's vast deserts, the Bay Area's dramatic bluffs and even near Los Angeles International Airport.
But do they add up to a “superbloom”? There is no single definition of the event, but so far this year’s blooms haven’t been as vibrant or abundant as those that took over swaths of California last spring following drought-busting rains. This year, too, the state received ample winter rains.
After especially wet winters, bursts of color may appear in the spring, drawing droves of visitors to California and other parts of the Southwest to glimpse the flowering fields and pose for pictures.
Here are some key facts about the natural spectacle:
WHAT'S A SUPERBLOOM?
Scientists don't agree on any one definition. Across California and Arizona, there are stretches of desert that can quickly transform into dense fields of wildflowers, since seeds lie dormant in the soil and then germinate and blossom at around the same time.
A recent study found that such widespread blooms, which have been visible by satellite imagery in some years, take place after seasons with greater than 30% average precipitation, said Naomi Fraga, director of conservation programs at the California Botanic Garden, east of Los Angeles.
DOES THIS YEAR COUNT?
No, according to Fraga. That's because there isn't a huge diversity in the flowers that have blossomed in places like California's Death Valley.
This year's blooms aren't as large or as dense as wildflowers in past years, she said.
“When I think of superblooms, I think of a bloom that is so extraordinary, that’s a once in a lifetime event,” Fraga said, adding that the wildflower display this year “still makes a beautiful show.”
Last spring, early April visitors to Southern California's Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve were treated to dazzling orange displays of the state flower. But around the same time this year, the fields were absent of the orange blooms, with the reserve's officials posting that the window for an impressive show was becoming “increasingly narrow.”
In Death Valley, one of the driest places on earth, stretches of desert are dotted with gold thanks to sunflowers that emerged after an especially wet winter and spring.
Whether that constitutes a superbloom is “really in the eye of the beholder,” said Evan Meyer, executive director of the California-based nonprofit Theodore Payne Foundation, which works to preserve California's native plants.
WHEN DOES IT HAPPEN?
April is typically the peak month for spring wildflowers, but in high-elevation places they can continue to blossom later into the spring.
Superblooms generally refer to low-elevation desert regions, Fraga said.
“It's much more geographic than seasonal,” Meyer said. “Spring in the mountains hasn’t started, and in the low desert, it’s past its peak.”
When temperatures rise in the desert, the flowers can quickly dry out.
HOW DOES CLIMATE CHANGE AFFECT THE SUPERBLOOM?
Experts say it might be too soon to tell.
Climate change is making precipitation patterns more erratic, but the effects on wildflowers could play out over decades or even centuries, Fraga said, since seeds stay dormant in the soil for long periods of time.
Southern California received heavy rain last summer, unlike its usually dry summers, which she said probably stimulated flowers to germinate out of season. Winter temperatures also were higher than average, so many of them were able to stay in bloom through the spring season.
“That made for a very unusual bloom,” Fraga said.
The Associated Press receives support from the Walton Family Foundation for coverage of water and environmental policy. The AP is solely responsible for all content. For all of AP’s environmental coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment
Continuing Events:
Mondays and Thursdays
Food Garden Volunteer
9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Learning from experienced gardeners.
LEAF CR Stone Garden
55 Mowry Ave., Fremont
volunteer@fremontleaf.org
Volunteer agreement form is required.
Tuesdays
East Bay Games Meet
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
German/Euro style board games and card games.
Swiss Park
5911 Mowry Ave., Newark
(510) 936-2523
meetup.com/east-bay-games
Tuesdays
East Indian Seniors R
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Anyone who is retired and of Indian origin or interested in Indian culture is welcome to join us.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Second and Fourth Tuesdays of the month
Tuesdays
LEGO® Time
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Use your imagination and engineering skills to create your own LEGO® designs.
Centerville library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
Drop-in. For everyone.
Tuesdays
Music and Storytime
11:30 am – 12:00 pm
Join us for stories, music, and movement.
Cherryland Community Center
278 Hampton Road, Hayward
(510) 626-8522
For babies, toddlers, kids, and preschoolers.
Tuesdays
Comfort & Joy Ukulele R
1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
A group of ukulele players with volunteer leaders to practice familiar songs as well as learning new.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Tuesdays
East Indian Seniors R
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Anyone who is retired and of Indian origin or interested in Indian culture is welcome to join us.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Second and Fourth Tuesdays of the month
Wednesdays
Folk Dancing Social R
9:00 am – 10:30 am
Join together in the wonderful spirit of dancing and savor the beautiful music from all over the world.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Wednesdays
Book Club AWC R
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
The book club meets for stimulating discussions.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Second and fourth Wednesdays of the month
Thursdays
International Folk Dancing R$
11:15 pm – 1:00 pm
Celebrate the cultural roots and traditional life of various countries.
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
In English and Chinese.
Thursdays
Bocce Ball Class R
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Learn how to play Bocce Ball.
Age Well Center at South Fremont
47111 Mission Falls Ct., Fremont
(510) 742-7529
Rain will cancel class.
Thursdays
Chinese Calligraphy Social R
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Bring your own supplies and socialize and have fun while doing calligraphy.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
There is no teaching on site.
Thursdays
Historic Days
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Ride a narrow-gauge train, tour the beautifully restored Patterson House Museum. Every historic day ends with an animal feeding at 3 pm. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required. Disabled accessible. Ardenwood admission fee applies.
Ardenwood Farms
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
(510) 544-2797
Thursdays
Chinese Music Ensemble R
1:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Open to all who are interested in performing traditional Chinese music.
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
(510) 790-6606
Thursday, April 18 – June 8
Image Central Spring Exhibition
Lower Gallery: Mon 5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Tues & Thur 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Upper Gallery: Mon – Fri 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The Annual Spring Exhibition at the ImageCentral Gallery (formerly PhotoCentral) has bloomed once again. This exhibition showcases work from over 20+ artist from many walks of life! An eclectic group show with amazing images to match. Vote for your favorite image at the reception and help crown the People’s Choice Awards! Celebrate this fun extravaganza with us, take in the imagery, meet the artist’s, make memories, and acquire some incredible art! The event is free and the public is invited.
Image Central Gallery
1099 E St., Hayward
(510) 881-6721
Thursday, April 4 – Saturday, May 25
Human Essence
12 noon – 5 pm
The Olive Hyde Art Gallery proudly presents HumanEssence ‐ a photography exhibition featuring portraits by Suszi Lurie McFadden paired with abstracts by Brandon Stauffer. Join us for an artist talk April 19 at 12 Noon.
Olive Hyde Gallery
123 Washington Blvd. Fremont
(510) 791-4357
Thursdays
Family Board Game Night
3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Play together with family and friends, or make some new friends at the library.
Centerville library
3801 Nicolet Ave., Fremont
(510) 795-2629
Board games will be provided.
Thursdays
The Peaceful Poets
5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Join a Milpitas-based group of writers and appreciators of poetry.
Milpitas Public Library
160 N Main St., Milpitas
(408) 262-1171
For teens, adults, and seniors.
Last Thursdays of the month
Thursdays and Saturdays
Story Time
10:30 am – 11:00 am
Picture book story time
Banter Bookshop
3768 Capitol Ave. Ste. F, Fremont
(510) 565-1004
bit.ly/3VFpbc
Fridays, December 29 – May 10
Go: The Game R
3:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Go is an ancient game of strategy. To learn the game or to play it.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
All ages and levels
Friday – Saturday, through April 27
‘Birds! Birds! Birds!’ exhibition
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Exhibit celebrates beauty and diversity of birdlife
Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center
4901 Breakwater Ave., Hayward
(510) 670-7270
Fridays and Saturdays
Free Telescope Viewings
7:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Join Chabot astronomers on the Observatory Deck for a free telescope viewing!
Chabot Space and Science Center
10000 Skyline Blvd., Oakland
(510) 336-7300
chabotspace.org/calendar
Weather permitting.
Saturday, April 4 – Saturday, June 4
Sun Gallery Climate Justice Exhibit
Thurs, Fri, Sun: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sat: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Local artist submissions with the theme “Climate Justice: World Peace & Security.”
Sun Gallery
1015 E. St., Hayward
(510) 581-4050
Saturdays
Laugh Track City R$
8:00 pm
Series of improvised games and scenes
Made Up Theatre
4000 Bay St. suite B., Fremont
(510) 573-3633
madeuptheatre.com
Saturdays
Free Beginner Pickleball Lesson
12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Free pickleball lesson taught by a USPA professional.
Hall Memorial Park
304 La Honda Dr, Milpitas
(408) 586-3210
Drop-in. Weather permitting.
Saturdays
Teen Cohort for Outdoor Education R$
10 am – 4 pm
Meet new friends, build outdoor skills, and get to know your community as we participate in activities, such as Hayward Shoreline Hike and Clean-Up, Quarry Lakes Excursion; Coyote Hills Excursion; Fishing; rock climbing on our 28-foot rock wall, hiking; and a Sulphur Creek Guided Tour.
Ashland Community Center
1530 167th Avenue, San Leandro
Noel Munivez: (510) 317-2303
Sundays
Farmyard Games
1:00 pm
Join us for some old-fashioned fun! Try your hand at classic American pastimes including stilts, sack races, and the potato-spoon race. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required. Ardenwood admission fee applies.
Ardenwood Farms
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
Sundays
Weekly meditation Session R
8:30 am – 9:30 am
Explore the effortless way to ultimate bliss.
India Community Center
525 Los Coches St., Milpitas
(408) 934-1130
samarpanmeditationusa.org
info@indiacc.org, info@samarpanmeditationusa.org
Sundays – Saturdays
Recreational Swim $
12:30 pm – 5:00 pm
Attractions may vary.
Silliman Activity and Family Aquatic Center
6800 Mowry Ave., Newark
(510) 578-4620
bit.ly/3nxo0is
Sundays
Larry “O” Teen Workshop
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Used bikes, bike parts for sale and bike repair.
Larry Orozco Teen Workshop
33623 Mission Blvd., Union City
(510) 675-5487
www.unioncity.org/723/Larry-O-Teen-Workshop
RobertS@unioncity.org
Donation accepted.
Second and fourth Sundays of the month
Upcoming Events
Wednesday, April 24
Olive Hyde present: Dmitry Grudsky – Mosaic Workshop
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
You might want to bring some special pottery, jewelry pieces, or stones with meaning to you.
Mission Room at Olive Hyde Art Gallery
Olive Hyde Art Gallery
123 Washington Blvd., Fremont
https://olivehydeartguild.org/news-events/upcoming-programs/
(510) 791-4357
Cost $8 per person for supplies
Wednesday, April 24
Robotic Knee Surgery and Muscle-sparing Anterior Hip Surgery
Dr. Alexander P. Sah, Medical co-director of the Institute for Joint Restoration and research, will describe robotic knee technologies and the benefits of an anterior approach to hip replacement.
Washington Hospital
2500 Mowry Ave., Fremont
Anderson Auditorium
Thursday, April 25
Live Music and Dance featuring the Canyon Band
1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Grab your dancing shoes and join the AWC for a fun afternoon of live music and dancing. The Canyon Band will be providing a variety of music for all to enjoy. Cash only. Register today!
Age Well Center at Lake Elizabeth
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy., Fremont
Thursday, April 25
German the Magician
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Germar the Magician will be at the Union City Library performing in honor of Día de los Niños, or Children’s Day. This is a very special day in many Latin American countries. Kids are celebrated and treated to many fun activities and family outings. Germar is an award-winning magician and author.
Union City Library
34007 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
(510) 745-1464
Friday, April 26 – Sunday, April 28
Castro Valley Friends of the Library Book Sale
Fri: 6 pm – 8 pm
Sat: 10 am – 4 pm
Sun: 1 pm – 4 pm
The Castro Valley Friends of the Library will hold a big book sale this weekend! With a member preview sale from 6 pm to 8 pm. You can join or renew your membership at the door to gain entrance. There will be an excellent selection of fiction and nonfiction for all ages, as well as audiobooks, CDs, and DVDs, all at bargain prices. On Sunday you can fill a bag with items and pay only $5 per bag!
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Saturday, April 27
HERS Breast Cancer Foundation’s 15th Annual People with Purpose Gala
6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Event elements will include a reception with a delicious signature pink cocktail and access to a full bar, fundraising games, silent and live auctions, a three-course dinner with wine, our HERS awards presentation and much more.
The Club at Castlewood
707 Country Club Drive, Pleasanton
Saturday, April 27
Fremont Stake Blood Drive
8:00 am – 2:00 pm
Emergency Preparedness and Wellness Convention
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints
Scott Creek Chapel
48950 Green Valley Road, Fremont
Saturday, April 27
Fremont Creates Grand Final Event
11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Four venues at Fremont Downtown Events Center (DTEC), multiple performances scheduled simultaneously, makerspace with activities for children, exhibits, food trucks. Informational space for sponsors, performers, organizations
Fremont Downtown Event Center
3500 Capital Ave., Fremont
Saturday, April 27
Lit Hop DownTown Hayward Day
2:00 pm – 8:00 pm
We'll hop from place to place to different venues near B Street to hear performances including the AfroSurreal Writers Association, students from Chabot College, a bilingual Spanish/English reading, the Queer Writers, local Horror Writers' and Mystery Writers' Association chapters, the Peer Writers' Group and much more. The event concludes with an afterparty at the Odd Fellows Lodge where we will have music, food and drinks.
Various locations
B St., Hayward
Haywardlithop.com
Saturday, April 27
Photo Day at the Museum
11:00 am – 1:00 pm
We are aiming to show the diverse stories of Hayward as we gear up for the City’s 150th birthday in 2026. Do you have family photos that show moments in time worth being remembered for generations to come? Bring them to the HAHS Museum on this day to be scanned and digitally added to our collection. You keep the original! Please limit to 12 photos per person.
Hayward Area Historical Society
22380 Foothill Blvd., Hayward
Saturday, April 27
Ohlone Games
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Learn to play games of skill and chance practiced by Ohlone people since time immemorial and to this day. Win prizes and make your own game to take home! All ages. Parent participation required.
Coyote Hills, Fremont
EBlackwood@ebparks.org
(510) 544-3213
Saturday, April 27
Mission San Jose Chamber of Commerce presents: 2nd Annual Fair
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Arts, mosaic, celebrating arts, culture and creativity
Ellsworth and Washington Blvd., Fremont
msjchamber.org
Saturday – Sunday, April 27- April 28
Tri-City Open Studios
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Navigate through the open studio at their pace and time and explore the unique artworks.
36541 Cherry St., Newark
Sunday, April 28
Are You Informed or Influenced? Evaluating Information in the Digital Age
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
In our 24/7 high speed digital age it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and mistrustful of all the information that flows your way. The ability to direct your attention and to find credible information sources are 21st Century super powers. Join us as we learn how to:
evaluate the credibility of news stories and sources, distinguish types of information and their purposes, deliberately seek a wide range of credible information sources
Castro Valley Library
3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
(510) 667-7900
Sunday, April 28
Ohlone College – Music Dept. Piano Concert
3:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Everyone is welcome to hear Ohlone College music students perform their spring piano recital for us!
Newark Library
37055 Newark Blvd., Newark
(510) 284-0675
Sunday, April 28
United We Sing Children’s Showcase Concert
3:00 pm
We welcome the community to experience the joyful voices of over 200 children from FUSD and NUSD schools in grades TK to 4th grade
Castro Valley Center for the Arts
19501 Redwood Road, Castro Valley
Sunday, April 28
Stilt Walking
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Want to be taller? Improve your balance? Give stilts a try. It's fun. Guess why farmers used these fun tools in the past. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required. Ardenwood admission fee applies.
(510) 544-2797
Ardenwood Farms
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
Sunday, April 28
Sunday Music at Garin
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Bring your musical instruments to the Red Barn at Garin for some whimsical old-time feel and pleasant tunes to learn and play along to. Please bring your own string instruments. 10+yrs. Parent participation required. Parking fees apply where charged. Wheelchair accessible. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required.
(510) 544-3220.
Garin Regional Park
1320 Garin Ave., Hayward
Sunday, April 28
The Soul of Chinese Cuisine
2:00 pm- 4:00 pm
Join us for an interactive event to learn the history and production process of a Chinese cuisine staple: soy sauce. This event is for adults only and will be presented in Mandarin with English interpretation available upon request.
Fremont Library
2400 Stevenson Blvd., Fremont
(510) 745-1400
Friday, May 3
Garden Club Plant Sale
9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Many varieties of flowers, herbs, vegetables, succulents and other plants. There will be house plants for indoor gardeners. Tips on maintaining your plants, ask the gardeners staffing the tables. Proceeds benefit garden club activities and Age Well Center
Age Well Center, Fremont
40086 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont
Saturday, May 4
Cinco De Mayo and Car Show
10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Musical and dance performances including various Balé Folclórico groups and Mariachi Los Halcones de Oakland, followed by a series of live performances, including Third Sol and Prieto & The Mirage Band.
The free, family-friendly event is hosted by La Alianza de Hayward and made possible by title sponsor One Subaru of Hayward with the support of the City of Hayward, Hayward Chamber of Commerce, and an array of other businesses, community organizations and community leaders.
In addition, there will be car and bicycle and pedal car shows, arts and crafts, food and beverage vendors and much, much more. Registration for the car show is $30 and to join the bicycle and pedal cars display is $10.
B St. and Main St., Hayward
Saturday, May 4
Dahlia Tuber and Small Plant Sale
10:00 am – 1:00 pm
For spectacular summer color, it’s time to plant those dahlias. Tubers will sell for $7 and cuttings, small plants will sell for $9, including tax. Dahlia aficionados will be on hand to advise on planting and caring for the dahlias. With so many varieties, there is something for everyone!
Mulford Garden Improvement Clubhouse
13055 Aurora Drive, San Leandro9
(across from Garfield Elementary School)
Sunday, May 5
Filipino Teatime Treats
1:30 pm – 2:30 pm
Explore the enduring legacy of the Manong, Filipino farmworkers who worked these fields in the early part of the 20th century, while sampling sweet treats from their island homeland. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required. Disabled accessible. Ardenwood admission fee applies.
(510) 544-2797
Ardenwood Farms
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
Sunday, May 5
Spring Fever Car Show
9:00 am – 3:00 pm
No car is too old or new! Car lovers have an opportunity to show off their shiny new toys. If you wish to participate in the event, please register here. Food and refreshments will be available, 50/50 Raffle (must be present to win), Live Band will perform, shops will be open for your shopping pleasure
www.niles.org
Niles Town Plaza
37482 Niles Blvd., Fremont
Registration deadline: Wednesday, May 1
Registration fee: $35
Sunday, May 12
Mother’s Day on the Farm
11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Palmdale Estates Events will host our 5th annual Mother's Day Brunch in the Pool Site Garden at Ardenwood. A delicious brunch buffet + dessert will be served along with other fun activities. Advanced registration required. The Farmyard Cafe will also be open for special sweet treats and Mother's Day Gifts.
www.ardenwoodevents.com/mothersday
Ardenwood Farms
34600 Ardenwood Blvd., Fremont
Friday, May 17
Spring School Jazz Festival and Street Eats
5:00 pm
Two of the bands, Cats in Da Club and the Jazzinators will play Traditional Jazz of New Orleans. Cats in Da Club is led by American High school Junior Stuti Jajoo is comprised of students from Mission HS, American HS and Irvington HS. The High Schools from John F. Kennedy (David Bickel – Director), American (Richard Wong – Director) and Irvington- (Charlie Rodda- Director) will play jazz from the “swing era” or “Big Band Jazz”.
Event Center Outdoor Plaza
3500 Capitol Ave, Fremont
Sunday, May 19
Tule Boats Float
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Tule is a wonderful plant that Ohlone Peoples traditionally used (and still use today) for housing material, sleeping, cordage, and much more. Come and build a miniature tule boat and see how well this unassuming plant can float and transport valuable cargo. Ages 7+ parent participation required. Parking fees apply where charged. Wheelchair accessible. This is a drop-in program; no registration is required.
(510) 544-3220.
8000 Patterson Ranch Road, Fremont