HOLIDAYS AROUND THE TOWN
Christmas is Near PAGES 4 & 5
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM A COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SERVING CASTRO VALLEY SINCE 1989
YEAR 35
INSIDE YOUR
FORUM
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2023
NO. 50
Sports Hall of Fame: ‘94 CVHS Girls More Volleyballers Meld into NCS Champs ‘Granny Flats?’ MAC MEETING
By Lowell Hickey
SPECIAL TO THE FORUM
Look! Chinook!
Salmon have recently been spotted running on local waterways
Page 3
That’s a Wrap!
RCHS students wrap dozens of gifts to be donated for Christmas
Page 4
In the Bin
Keep recycling and composting in your holiday plans
Page 10
INDEX Calendar ................ 4 Classified Ads ........ 8 Crosswords ............. 9 Homes ..................... 6 Merchants ............. 10 Obituaries ............. 11 Opinions ............... 10 Our Town ................. 3 Sports .................. 12 Weather .................. 2 WWW.MYCVFORUM.COM
The 1994 Castro Valley High Girls Volleyball team had By Amy Sylvestri some big sneakers to fill. CASTRO VALLEY FORUM The tremendously talented 1993 team went 28-4 and won The Castro Valley Municithe North Coast Section Divipal Advisory Council (MAC) sion II championship. Trouble closed out their year with the was, there were 10 seniors on approval of a pair of land use that team who had graduated. projects at their Monday night The ’94 team had just four meeting. seniors who had played the It will soon be a little easier year before. to have an Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU) on your property As if that wasn’t enough, the thanks to amendments the 1994 Trojans had a new coach, MAC approved, which will Eric Boice, who had been the align the county with the state junior varsity coach under the law that went into effect early very successful Glen Mitchell. this year. Boice had to meld the new girls on the team with the vetState Assembly Bill 221 erans. It wasn’t always easy. (AB221) attempts to help resolve California’s housing “The age difference created ‘94 CVHS Girls’ Volleyball Champs: Bottom row, left to right, are Meghan Suta chemistry unbalance,” Boice cliffe, Leslie Welch, Shauna Welch and Brandi Walls. Top row: Coach Eric Boice, crunch by clarifying old legislation, which makes the recalled 29 years later. “It was Judi Behnken, Jill Schmitz, Alyssa Carbonetti, Amy Kohl, Heather Sammons, (the smile of) Barbara Klews, Sara Szalay, Gigi Townsend, and Nicole Abella. language of the regulations a tough nut to crack.” less prone to misinterpretation But crack it he did. The and streamlines the process 1994 team equaled the ’93 “The win was sweeter for Senior Heather (Sammons) playing together for years on of ADU development. Also club teams as well as in high team’s record of 28-4 and re- me the second year because we Miller, the league Most peated themselves as the NCS had to work so hard becoming Valuable Player, was joined on school. But Amy and Barbara known as an in-law or motherin-law unit, secondary dwelling were new to her. Division II champion. For a unit,” said Alyssa (Carbonet- the front line by two talented unit, or granny flat, an ADU its accomplishment, the 1994 ti) Bellevue, the senior setter sophomores, Amy Kohl and “Setting up each hitter is usually has its own kitchen, livteam has been elected to the and co-captain of that team. Barbara Klews. Alyssa knew a little different,” Alyssa ex2024 Castro Valley Sports Hall “It was different personalities exactly how to set up Heather plained. She had to learn how ing area, and separate entrance. see MAC on page 11 of Fame. coming together.” for big hits; they had been see FAME on back page
CV’s Tyler Coolidge Nominated for a Grammy Performance or Song. The Grammy Awards will be held on February 4. Castro Valley-raised musiTyler has only been procian Tyler Coolidge (he uses ducing music for about two all lower-case tyler coolidge years but has been recording professionally) was thrilled his own music in rap, hip-hop, recently to be nominated for a and rhythm & blues (R&B) for Grammy Award for his work over a decade. as a producer on “Your Power” If his name isn’t totally by Lecrae & Tasha Cobbs familiar, play or just look at a Leonard. It was his first nom- copy of the video game NBA ination and his first work with 2K22. His song “Slow Burner” those artists. is on the soundtrack and has been listened to millions of The category is Best Contimes on YouTube, as well as temporary Christian Music By Mike McGuire
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
whenever anyone plays the game, a big seller. Coolidge started off not paying much attention to music, and when he did in his early years at Castro Valley High, it was very different from his parents’ musical taste for bands like Aerosmith and AC/DC. “I started really listening to music as Drake’s career was taking off, and I liked how he tyler coolidge approached songwriting. He did about half rap, half R&B,” But he got into poetry before he said. “And I really liked he got deeply into music, Kanye (West) as well.” reading it for inspiration, doing
some poetry slams (competitive public readings), and then writing raps. At some point, though, Coolidge says, “music was the only thing that felt right.” While he lived a life full of poetry and music at Castro Valley (Class of 2011), he never took a music class. When he went to Cal State East Bay, he majored in English rather than music. “But I really enjoyed going, and I found that it was creative see GRAMMY on page 11
2 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Castro Valley Weather Decembe 13 - December 17, 2023
Wednesday
Mostly Sunny High 62° Low 42°
Thursday
Mostly Sunny High 64° Low 43°
Almanac
Saturday
Friday
Mostly Sunny High 65° Low 42°
Sunday
Sunny High 67° Low 47°
PM Showers High 62° Low 51°
Dec 19
Jan 3
Moon Phases
Past Week’s Rain: 00.28 Season To Date: 01.85 Normal To Date: 00.00 Season Average: 00.00
Dec 26
Jan 10
Sun sets at 4:50 p.m. today, rises at 7:15 a.m. Thursday.
PHOTO CREDIT: DAYNA SPEED
Warren Hanson, Sean Cooper, Dori Campbell, Sean OBrien, Britt Jensky, Ali Lane, Kristen Vellinger, Erin Sullivan, Elmer Strasser get ready for the Cabaret.
Celebrate Holidays with Cabaret ‘Loves Obsession’ This Sunday
mycvforum.com
COMMIT YOUR FAMILY TO BE FIT! Swim Lessons Available for Members Only
By Terry Liebowitz
pm with a no-host bar, light snacks, and surprises followed by the show at 6 pm. The evening is a fundraiser for elebrate the season with a Holiday Caba- Castro Valley’s newest theater ret, Love’s Obsession, company, TMC Arts. on Sunday, December 17, at the Founder Dayna Speed has Firehouse Arts Center, 4444 assembled over 20 local enRailroad Avenue, Pleasanton. tertainers to sing their favorite songs of love. Many performThe festivities begin at 5
C
SPECIAL TO THE FORUM
EXCITING OPPORTUNITY ALERT! Yoga w/7 classes a week Indoors & outdoors gym W/40 classes per month of other group exercise classes
New Initiation Fee (December Only) $1500 Family now $650 Save $850 $800 Single now $450 Save $350
DECEMBER FREE When you join early and pay for your 1st month dues
CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Christmas/New Year’ s Resolution Special! 2 Free Lockers 1 for each Spouse for 1 year.
FREE MONTH
w/Annual Dues, Pay for 11mo. get 12mo. FREE Offer exp 12/30/2023
Monthly Dues Monthly Dues Families = $289 Singles = $257 *Previous members of 12 months or less are not eligible for this promo. Not to be combined with any other offers.
8 NEW CHAMPIONSHIP PICKLEBALL COURTS
All Club features are included in your monthly dues. Except Babysitting, Swim lessons, Massage and Personal Training
See website “BOVSWIM.COM “ FOR ALL OUR CLASSES AND FEATURES. 1881 Astor Drive-Directions: Lake Chabot Rd. is Open. Use View Drive or Fairmont to Lake Chabot Rd. to Club @ Astor Dr. during construction.
The Castro Valley Unified School District is on the lookout for passionate individuals to join the Personnel Commission and fill two vacancies. This independent body oversees the merit system for selecting, retaining, and promoting classified (non-teaching) employees in our public school system. Apply now and be a part of shaping the future of our school community! https://www.cv.k12.ca.us/PC_application/
ers return from TMC Arts’ debut summer blockbuster, Bright Star. They are joined by cast members of Castro Valley High School’s recently sold-out musical The Little Mermaid including Sophia Pereira (Ariel), Nora Layne (Ariel), Alex Hurley (Prince Eric), and Xavier Collins (Sebastian). Castro Valley Center for the Arts Manager Sean Cooper is paired with Pleasanton’s Kristen Vellinger to sing “I’d Give It All for You” from Songs For a New World. Producer Dayna Speed is passionate about bringing musical theater to the forefront of the local entertainment scene. Following her Bright Star success, she will produce three shows in 2024: Anastasia and Oklahoma at the Douglas Morrisson Theatre and The Hunchback of Notre Dame at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts. “It is important to me to inspire and entertain audience members with shows that will leave them with a sense of hope,” Dayna shared. For tickets, visit: TMCtheatre.org
CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Chinook Salmon Running on Local Waterways Around CV
3
Sheriff’s Reports COMPILED BY MICHAEL SINGER • CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Concealed Weapons home on Crane Avenue near Public Intoxication Winifred Drive when deputies Monday, December 4: at Friday, December 8: at 6:47 p.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested did a wellness check and found 10:37 p.m., deputies arrested hinook salmon have a 36-year-old man with no per- the woman involved with drugs a 42-year-old man with no recently been spotted manent residence on suspicion and alcohol while responsible permanent residence on suspicion of carrying a concealed running on local waof public intoxication. The man for a minor. Deputies took knife with a blade longer than terways around Castro Valley, was passed out in the parking the woman into custody. The 4 inches, brass knuckles, and which is a good sign that the lot of a restaurant on the Boule- children were cared for until giving deputies false identifish habitat is healthy, even if vard near Redwood Road. Dep- another adult was contacted. fication. The man was found more could be done to protect uties woke him and smelled to also have an outstanding Breaking and Entering it, say members of the Friends alcohol on his breath. The man warrant for his arrest. He had of San Leandro Creek. failed his field sobriety test and Wednesday, December 6: at been previously convicted of 1:37 p.m., a 33-year-old man was taken into custody. Salmon returning to freshshoplifting, grand theft, petty was arrested on suspicion of water streams from the salty theft, holding a false ID, and breaking and entering into a Wanted for DUI ocean are counted every year possession of a lock pick and Thursday, December 7: at 11:31 home on Keith Avenue near during the spawning season, illegal drug paraphernalia. a.m., a 27-year-old CV woman Lake Chabot Road. Deputies which runs from August responded to a silent alarm at Deputies stopped the man for was arrested as part of a through January. East Bay questioning outside a business warrant issued for her capture. the home and found the man Municipal Utility District (EBin the Castro Village Shopping Deputies served the warrant at had broken in. The man was MUD) reported the salmon run Center and found his stash. an apartment on Center Street also found possessing illegal on the Mokelumne River is the near Grove Way. The woman drug paraphernalia. Deputies The man was taken to Santa most successful return in more PHOTO CREDIT: FRIENDS OF SAN LEANDRO CREEK had been previously convicted Rita Jail. took him into custody. than 80 years. of driving under the influence “We’ve been hearing about This salmon is most likely the Chinook (or King), which is a “winter run” salmon – September thru De- of alcohol and driving with a the big salmon run this year, and we’ve been hearing rumors cember – which was spotted in San Leandro Creek. blood-alcohol level above the Happy Hanukkah legal limit, as well as reckless about seeing them in San Lewhite, shows the damage to the driving. Deputies took the andro Creek. We have recently salmonids. Both are anadroFeliz Navidad woman to Santa Rita Jail. skin from its epic journey. spotted them and got photos,” mous fish, meaning they live Happy Holidays! in fresh and salt water. The By the time the exhausted said FSLC member Susan Child Endangerment California Coastal Chinook is fish reach this final stage of Levenson. Lovewell Team a threatened species and has life, they are single-minded in Wednesday, December 6: at Levenson added that the (CA DRE #00689931, #01912817, #02187163) been off-limits to commercial their instinct to spawn, Leven- 12:40 p.m., deputies arrested Chinook in the photo is a “Lovewell Team” is a dynamic, son said. After entering fresh a 44-year-old woman from cousin of the Rainbow Trout, fishers since the 1990s. award-winning Real Estate team Castro Valley for child endanwater, they no longer eat The coloration of the fish with the same family and Call 510-351-5555 or visit us at see SALMON on page 4 germent. The woman was at a genus, and both are considered in the photo, which is spotty www.Lovewellteam.com By Michael Singer
C
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
— A team you can love and trust —
Since 1969
Health Unlimited Brand Vitamins
Tom Nohr CFP® NATURAL FOODS
25% OFF
San Leandro 182 Pelton Center (510) 483-3630 Castro Valley 3446 Village Dr. (510) 581-0220
510-888-7171
Comprehensive Financial Planning For Your Lifestyle in Retirement Since 1986 www.tomnohr.com 20632 Redwood Road Suite E, Castro Valley, CA 94546 Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge and Successful Financial Education Workshops are not affiliated.
Join Us For
Christmas Eve Services! December 24
5:00 PM – Candlelight Service 9:00 PM – Candlelight Service
Save money on a high-quality education with guaranteed transfer to over 40 colleges and universities, training for high-demand jobs, and support programs to help you succeed. Financial aid is available.
APPLY TODAY
9PM Service Livestreamed on: www.facebook.com/FaithLutheranCV Faith Lutheran Church of Castro Valley 20080 Redwood Road Castro Valley, CA 94546 A ou W e l l A re Y ! (510) 582 0818 e lco S e h e re me www.flccv.org ! T
Please Join Our Spiritual Family
Sun., Dec. 17 - 11 a.m. Burning Bowl Ceremony Sun., Dec. 24 - 11 a.m. Truce Play & Christmas Party Sun., Dec. 31 - 11 a.m. White Stone Ceremony
Unity Church of Castro Valley 20121 Santa Maria Ave., Castro Valley
4 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Salmon: Obstacles In Creek continued from page 3 and begin physically deteriorating. They are, therefore, not palatable to humans. It is estimated that only 10 percent of salmon are born in the wild. The rest are born and raised in hatcheries. Hatchery fish are different than their wild cousins because their adipose fins (a small fin near the back of the fish) are clipped. Members of the FSLC PHOTO CREDIT: MALAKAI STEWART say that they are thrilled and RCHS Students with more than 90 wrapped packages for upcoming CV Rotary somewhat surprised to see Club Children’s Christmas Party with CV Rotarian and Superintendent Emeritus these salmon because, in the downtown stretch of the creek, Bruce D. Johnson (rear left) and Vice Principal Evan Barnhart (rear right). many human-made obstacles (couches, tires, etc.) have substantially blocked the flow of water. “Seeing the tenacity of these them from Santa Claus at the native fish to reach spawning n addition to participatPackages were donated to grounds upstream should stress Castro Valley Adult School. ing in “Donna’s Holiday the CHP Toy Drive and then the importance of not using Hope” (formerly “Adopt were made available to the CV RCHS Assistant Princiour creek as a dump,” said a Family”) Program through Rotary Children’s Party. pal Dr. Evan Barnhart looks Levenson. “While humans the Hayward Area Recreation forward to this event every The transfer of gifts was and Park District (chaired by coordinated by CV Rotarian year, stating “members of our have inhabited its banks for Castro Valley Rotarian Dr. high school student body once thousands of years, it is only Ceta Dochterman and CHP within the last 150 that our Heidi Hausauer), the Rotary Officer Jennifer Pabst, which again displayed a heart for waters were not met with reverClub of Castro Valley will others by wrapping gifts for were picked up and labeled once again be hosting their kids in the community - these ence and respect.” appropriately and then the annual Children’s Christmas students continually impress packages were taken to RedWhile the return of water Party for kids and their parents wood Christian High School so me by their willingness to levels after last year’s big from shelters for the abused members of their student body, sacrifice their time for the sake storms has brought the fish and homeless. led by Assistant Principal Evan of others.” back, Levenson says, salmon The party is chaired by CV Barnhart, could wrap and reapThe Rotary Club of Castro are a delicate species and are ply labels to the packages. Rotarian Mark Poniatowski, Valley’s Children’s Christmas affected by pollution, water but could not happen without The students wrapped more Party is truly another example temperature, and stresses. “Our creek is indeed a the participation of many than ninety packages and are of the Castro Valley Commuorganizations coming together ready for names to be applied nity coming together to serve natural habitat and should be treated as such,” she says. to benefit the less fortunate. prior to the children receiving others.
Community Shows Holiday Spirit
I
COMMUNITY CALENDAR Saturday, December 16 Winter Concert at Castro Valley Library Two local groups will present a program of light classical and seasonal music. Members of the groups are local residents who wish to share their life-long love of music with the community. The groups have performed throughout the Bay Area. The concert will be held this Saturday, December 16 from 2 to 3:30pm at the Castro Valley Library. Saturday, December 16 LWVEA Winter Party Join League of Women Voters of the Eden Area (LWVEA) for some holiday cheer during the annual LWVEA Winter Party featuring: cold and hot drinks, appetizers and desserts. Bid on the gorgeous packages available during the Silent Auction. Proceeds benefit the LWVEA, a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Please RSVP by email: lwvea57@gmail.com Saturday & Sunday, December 16 & 17 The Velveteen Rabbit at DMT The Hayward Area Recreation and Park District has teamed up with ODC/Dance to present a spectacular rendition of “The Velveteen Rabbit” on December 16th and 17th at the Douglas Morrisson Theatre as part of the new DMT Presents series. Performances will be this Saturday, December 16, from 6 to 7:45pm and Sunday, December 17, from 2 to 3:45pm. The performance duration is 90 minutes with a 15-minute Intermission.Secure your tickets online: douglasmorrissontheatre.thundertix.com/events/218468 Wednesday, December 20 Free CV Community Band Concert The gift of your presence is the best “present” of all. Invite family and friends to spend time together and enjoy wonderful free performances at three free winter concerts. This concert will be at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts. On Dec. 20 at 7:30 pm Kathy Maier will lead the Castro Valley Community Band in a winter concert.
ORDER YOUR HOLIDAY DESSERTS Cakes
Cookies Breakfast Pastries Tarts Hostess Gifts
KARIN JOHNSON
*Gluten Free Options Bakery Hours: Saturdays: 9am-1pm 20865 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
Specialty Cakes and Pastries
(Lucky Shopping Center)
karinjohnsoncakes@yahoo.com
From our family to your family. Wishing everyone a warm, wonderful, safe Christmas and New Year with family and friends. Greg and Aida,
Mel’s Shoe Clinic
3366 Village Drive Inside the Castro Valley Village. (510) 537-7061
Katy Del Rio of
N-V-Us Looks Color High-lites Perms Styling
Katy & Daughter Danell
Cher Le Salon & Boutique 510 332-1806 * Ask for Katy 19129 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
This Friday, December 15: Kisura Nyoto and Friends @ Pampas Cafe 6 to 8pm. The “Verse & Vibes” series continues with Bay Area performing artist Kisura Nyoto! Come support local live music and local business, in your community’s living room! Pampas Cafe: 22222 Redwood Rd Castro Valley (adjacent to Trader Joe’s). FREE.
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
5
NOW OPEN IN CASTRO VALLEY
Over 6,000 items from 42 Countries of International Imported Foods
(OFFER EXPIRES 12-23-23)
“We Offer Unique Holiday Food Items From All Over the World!” Birthday Parties Art Camp Team Building
Scout Troops Private Events And more...
German, Greek, Bulgarian, Italian, Polish, Armenian, Bosnian, Russian, France, East European, Middle Eastern, and Others
(510) 728-1333 www.aransartstudio.com
Castro Valley Hayward
‘Promise of Christmas’
STORAGE
This Christmas season, Red- calendar for Friday, December wood Chapel is inviting com- 15, and Saturday, December munity members to immerse 16, at 7 pm and embark on the transformative journey themselves in the enchanting conveying the profound beauty production, “The Promise of Christmas.” Step onto a stage of Christmas. Admission is free, so bring your family and that will span through time, friends to celebrate the promise from that little Bethlehem town long ago, to our present that echoes through time—the promise of Christmas. Join us day. Experience how amidst the echoes of history, as people for an unforgettable evening filled with joy, reflection, experience challenges and and the enduring spirit of the carry the weight of pain and season. Redwood Chapel is struggles, one thing remains constant: the comforting prom- located on 19300 Redwood ise of Christmas, offering so- Road, in the heart of Castro lace to every heart. Mark your Valley.
Wishes Everyone A Very Safe and Festive Holiday Season 2457 Grove Way, Castro Valley
3430 Village Dr. Castro Valley
HEYER CENTER
In the Castro Village Shoping Center
Corner of Heyer Ave. and Center St., Castro Valley
Mexican
Wishes you Happy Holidays
CAFÉ RUMI We specialize in quality Mediterranean foods and drinks. Try our special drink.... a “Pink Cha”.... very refreshing! STUDIO ONE SEVEN SALON AT HEYER CENTER New guest and returning clients are always welcome in our cozy remodeled salon. Make your appointment early for the holidays. BOY SCOUT CHRISTMAS TREE LOT AT HEYER CENTER Open Nov. 26th.; specializing in freshly cut Douglas. Noble and Grand fir trees. Proceeds from sales help support Boy Scout activities. D’S FITNESS DESIGNED 4 WOMEN We specialize in providing individual fitness programs for women Let us customize a fitness program for you. HEYER HOUSE LIQUOR We carry a wide selection of beers, wine and liquor to meet your holiday needs.
Restaurant exican FineM eason. r o f s Join U is Holiday S th Dining
Holiday bakery sale cookies • cocoas • great gifts
week of thanksgiving-
Christmas Eve
Begins at 8:30am Daily - 7 Days A Week
2380 Grant Ave. San Lorenzo, CA
www.toogoodgourmet.com
538-3290
Open for Lunch & Dinner Monday - Saturday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Banquet Facilities Available.
(510)317-8150
Homes
6 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
REAL ESTATE GALLERY The Key to Real Estate Investing: Buy and Hold term advantage people like us have gotten by trying to be consistently not stupid, harlie Munger recent- instead of trying to be very ly passed away at the intelligent.” age of 99. Second in Over the years, we have command to Warren Bufseen many market strategies fett at Berkshire Hathaway, here in the Bay Area. We Munger built a fortune most have endured the foreclosure of us can only imagine. He crisis, short sales, waves of began in real estate in Califlippers and commercial fornia. investors aquiring large numMunger’s impact has been bers of properties. Through it felt in every area of investall, with the ups and downs, ing: not for get-rich-quick those who have invested in schemes, but for his practice real estate and held for the of strategically buying and long haul have profited signifholding. He stated, “It’s icantly and built wealth. remarkable how much longThe key to investing, By Carl Medford, CRS
C
Special to the Forum
************* NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CASTRO VALLEY SANITARY DISTRICT ************** NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Directors of the Castro Valley Sanitary District (CVSan) intends to approve maximum proposed monthly rates for solid waste services for the next five years, beginning July 1, 2024, and modified each July 1 thereafter through and including July 1, 2028. Actual annual rate increases will be calculated in accordance with the Franchise Agreement with Alameda County Industries (ACI), and will not exceed the maximum proposed monthly rates.
according to Munger, is to buy wisely and hold for a long period of time. He stated, “If you’re going to invest in stocks for the long term or real estate, of course there are going to be periods when there’s a lot of agony and other periods when there’s a boom. And I think you just have to learn to live through them.” The mistake many make is to let their emotions get the better of them: if the market is hot, they want to jump in and buy, failing to realize that the most significant gains have already been made. Inversely, as the market slides, an emotional response is to sell to stave off potential losses. This type of mindset – buy high and sell low – will result in significant losses. Instead, the goal should be to buy and hold, regardless of the current market condition. I know local investors who purchased residential income properties years ago and who, watching their property values plummet during the foreclosure crisis, refused to sell their assets. Those same investors, once the dust of the financial crisis settled, saw their values skyrocket. Real estate has always been a great investment. Even
The Cathy Brent Team would like to wish all a Wonderful Holiday Season Filled with everything good that life can bring!
Thank You to all our clients past, present & future for entrusting us with your business and contributing to our status as Berkshire Hathaway’s #1 Team. We could not have done it without you! We look forward to helping you all in the New Year. Cathy, Kathi, Wayne, Linda & Kelly
Cathy Brent Team 510-381-1065 • www.cathybrent.com DRE #01088138 Kathi Townsend: 333-9404 / kathi.townsend@BHHSDrysdale.com / DRE #01409032 Wayne Licsak: 303-7765 / wayne.licsak@BHHSDrysdale.com / DRE #01850870 Linda Neff: 557-9185 / linda@lindaneff.com / DRE #01495978 Kelly Brent McCoy: 925-786-2681 / kelly.mccoy@bhhsdrysdale.com / DRE# 02095209
with the current high prices and interest rates, if a person buys now and holds long term, history shows us that over time, they will be able to build significant wealth. Unfortunately, many, reacting to current conditions and hoping for better days, will miss the opportunity currently staring them in the face. Carl Medford is a licensed Realtor with Keller Williams Realty and a licensed general contractor. This article is sponsored by the Central County Marketing Association.
NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that CVSan will hold a Public Hearing at the Board of Directors Meeting on February 6, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. in theCathy Brent Team .indd 1 CVSan Board Room located at 21040 Marshall SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 198 Street, Castro Valley, CA 94546 to hear and conAN ORDINANCE OF THE CASTRO VALLEY sider all written protests and hear and consider all SANITARY DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS oral comments against the proposed rate TO ADJUST THE CAPACITY FEE RATE. increases. Written protests may be submitted by mail or in person to: Castro Valley Sanitary Ordinance No. 198 Amending Article IV, Regulation District, 21040 Marshall Street, Castro Valley, CA of Sewer Services, Section 4113 of the Castro Valley 94546, or at the public hearing, so long as Sanitary District Code, was duly and regularly adopted by they are received prior to the conclusion of the the Sanitary Board at a regular meeting of said Board public comment portion of the public hearing. held on the 5th day of December 2023. To qualify, each protest must (1) be in writing, (2) state the protest is being submitted in The ordinance will adjust the rate charged for the opposition to the proposed rate increases; (3) wastewater capacity fee. This change will be effective provide the location of the identified property January 1, 2024. (by street address); and (4) include the origiThe Castro Valley Sanitary District Board of Directors nal signature of the property owner or tenant voted on December 5, 2023, at the Castro Valley Sanitary submitting the protest and be identified on the District Regular Board meeting to adopt the Ordinance front of the envelope with: Attn: Public Hearing as follows: Akagi – Yes; (Dooman) Woerz – Yes; Johnson on Solid Waste Services Rates. Only one – Yes; McGowan – Yes; Sadoff – Yes. written protest will be counted per parcel. The above summary constitutes the major highlights of Ordinance No. 198. A reading of the entire Ordinance Dated: December 5, 2023 may be necessary to obtain a full understanding of the Ordinance and the full text of the Ordinance is available ROLAND P. WILLIAMS, JR. upon request via email at contact@cvsan.org or by General Manager calling 510-537-0757. Castro Valley Sanitary District
RECENT HOME SALES Home sales information is compiled and provided by CalREsource and includes Bedrooms, Square Feet and Year Built when available
Castro Valley ————————— 29524 Palomares Road 94552: $1,900,000 [4 BD - 2,301 SF - 1949 TOTAL SALES: 1 LOWEST AMOUNT: $1,900,000 MEDIAN AMOUNT: HIGHEST AMOUNT: $1,900,000 AVERAGE AMOUN
$1,900,000 $1,900,000
Hayward ————————-------
53 Fernridge Court 94544: $500,000 [3 BD - 1,585 SF - 1991 27841 Biscayne Avenue 94544: $650,000 [3 BD - 1,216 SF - 1954 1008 Imperial Place #5 94541: $660,000 [2 BD - 1,565 SF - 1982 24647 Traynor Court 94544: $715,000 [3 BD - 1,058 SF - 1950 675 Hampton Road 94541: $725,000 [5 BD - 1,530 SF - 1989 1266 Sandy Bridges Court 94541: $750,000 [3 BD - 1,532 SF - 1988 215 Bolt Court 94544: $752,000 [2 BD - 1,491 SF - 2020 693 Chase Avenue 94541: $753,000 [3 BD - 1,345 SF - 2004 456 Brian Street 94544: $770,000 [3 BD - 927 SF - 1952 24730 Santa Clara Street 94544: $780,000 [3 BD - 1,400 SF - 1957 27925 Biscayne Avenue 94544: $820,000 [3 BD - 1,000 SF - 1954 26981 Jennings Way 94544: $949,000 [3 BD - 1,231 SF - 1955 301 Fig Tree Court 94544: $1,135,000 [4 BD - 1,821 SF - 1996 29028 Vagabond Lane 94544: $1,250,000 [4 BD - 3,025 SF - 2008 TOTAL SALES: 14 LOWEST AMOUNT: $500,000 HIGHEST AMOUNT: $1,250,000
MEDIAN AMOUNT: AVERAGE AMOUN
$752,500 $800,642
San Leandro ————————-------
2077 Washington Avenue #314 94577: $372,000 [1 BD - 692 SF - 1984 1551 Marybelle Avenue 94577: $780,000 [3 BD - 1,015 SF - 1944 1221 Coe Avenue 94579: $855,000 [3 BD - 1,401 SF - 1951 1359 Santa Rosa Street 94577: $905,000 [3 BD - 1,338 SF - 2000 181 Sunnyside Drive 94577: $1,020,000 [4 BD - 2,286 SF - 1923 837 Glen Drive 94577: $1,140,000 [4 BD - 1,523 SF - 1929 TOTAL SALES: 6 LOWEST AMOUNT: $372,000 HIGHEST AMOUNT: $1,140,000
MEDIAN AMOUNT: AVERAGE AMOUN
$880,000 $845,333
San Lorenzo ————————------1777 Via Redondo 94580: $805,000 [3 BD - 1,434 SF - 1954 16052 Via Harriet 94580: $880,000 [3 BD - 1,621 SF - 1956 17453 Via Valencia 94580: $930,000 [3 BD - 1,973 SF - 1951 1508 Via Hermana 94580: $1,075,000 [3 BD - 1,627 SF - 1955 TOTAL SALES: 4 LOWEST AMOUNT: $805,000 HIGHEST AMOUNT: $1,075,000
MEDIAN AMOUNT: AVERAGE AMOUN
$905,000 $922,500
S
Y D
S
Homes
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Preparing Roses for the Winter
7
reaching the blades of grass. have to reseed the bare spots velop when left covered for These areas turn yellow and in the spring. With herbaceous an extended period. It’s one of eventually die as the plants and woody ornamental ground the few times that a leaf blower cannot manufacture food in covers, Stem and Crown Rot, becomes handy. So, my recomtheir leaves, known as photo- along with Water Mold fungi mendation is to clean up the By Buzz Bertolero tion practices are important; other insects. One application synthesis. This means you’ll and other diseases, could de- debris often. Special to the Forun however, they will not prevent lasts six weeks. My gardener wants diseases from reoccurring next to prune my roses early. year when the right conditions Is it too late to clean Is that okay, or should I are present. Rust, Mildew, and up the fall debris, or wait? Also, should I spray an Black Spot are airborne disshould we wait and do it anti-disease agent onto the bare eases that require moisture and in the spring? branches? Will this help hinder temperature to be a problem. The foliage must remain dry the Black Spot next year? The fallen leaves and Prune Prune fruit trees and vines this month and next, but only after all of the leaves have fallen. after the sun goes down. Rose other debris should be Pruning plants that ar not fully dormant leads to disease and damage to the tree tissue. Don’t There is no prob- Rust requires only two to four removed from the base prune rose until mix-January. lem pruning your roses hours of constant moisture for or under the canopy of trees today. After pruning, the infection to begin. With and shrubs, and turf and ground the bushes are sprayed with a Black Spot, it’s seven hours; cover areas should be cleared. Vegetables Transplant globe artichokes, Jerusalem artichokes, asparagus, broccoli, cabbages, cauCopper Fungicide or Horticul- hence, Rust will always appear From my personal experience, liflower, horseradish and rhubarb. Dig the soil when it’s not waterlogged. If you squeeze a before Black Spot. In addition, tural Oil. Before pouring, you it’s easier to stay on top of the should strip off all the remain- it will be weeks before the dis- debris as it’s occurring than to handful of soil and it stays in a lump, it’s too wet to dig. ing leaves and clean up all the eases show up after each infec- wait. Dry and wet leaves are debris under and around the tion. A wet spring from an ex- easier to clean up than those Flowers Transplant azaleas, camellias, ornamental cabbage and kale, cyclamen, primroses and bushes. They could be sprayed tended rainy season accelerates that have matted down. Instead pansies. Be on the lookout for snails. If you prefer not using pesticides, use a flashlight right after pruning or wait until the problem. Your best control of raking the matted leaves up, to handpick them just after dark . If the plants are dry, sprinkle them at dusk which will next year. It’s a judgment call is Bayer Advanced All-In-One they’ll have to be scraped off encourage the snails to come out of their hiding places. on your part. One application Rose Care. It’s a liquid or gran- the ground, and that’s not fun ular product applied to the roots is all that’s necessary. Rose at all. With grass, it’s a critical Dividing plants Now is the time to divide dormant perennials, including herbs Rust, Mildew, and Black Spot in March and controls all three issue. The debris left from each will overwinter on rose canes diseases, fertilizes the bushes, winter storm forms a solid lay- like marjoram, mint and rosemary. They’re easy to transplant in cool weather. and old leaves. Good sanita- and controls the Aphids and er that prevents sunlight from
Q
A
Q
A
WEEKEND GARDENER
VALLEY FORUM 8 CASTRO Wednesday, December 13, 2023
Classified Advertising
ADVERTISEWITH WITH EAST EAST BAY BAY PUBLISHING PUBLISHING AND AND REACH REACH OVER OVER 65,000 60,000 ADVERTISE TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD NEWS
510-614-1558 510-614-1557
Classifieds@ebpublishing.com
CALL
AUTOS / TRUCKS
$
35
10 words (1 week)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
GARAGE SALES
$ $
35 30
10 words (1 week)
CONTRACTOR SERVICE
Visit our Websites 24 hours a day
CLASSIFIED AD DEADLINE New ads, cancellations or ad changes:
www.sanleandrotimes.com www.castrovalleyforum.com
Call 510-614-1558 (Mon. - Fri., 9 a.m - 5 p.m.)
TO VIEW THE CLASSIFIED ADS
2060 Washington Ave., San Leandro, CA 94577
HELP WANTED
$
35
10 words (1 week)
FENCES/DECKS
MONDAY BY 5:00 P.M.
VISA, MASTERCARD & DISCOVER ACCEPTED
MISC. FOR SALE
$ $
35 30
10 words (3 weeks)
GARDENING
RENTALS
$
35
10 words (1 week)
HELP WANTED
$ $
SERVICES
35 30
10 words (1 week)
HOUSE CLEANING
ALL CLASSIFIED ADS ALSO RUN FREE ONLINE! • AD MUST BE PREPAID WITH CASH, CHECK OR CREDIT CARD • ADDITIONAL WORDS ARE $1.00 EACH
You can run a classified ad for a little as $35 a week. Your ad runs in both of our newspapers, the Castro Valley Forum on Wednesday and the San Leandro Times on Thursday. You can also save by placing your ad on our website at castrovalleyforum.com or sanleandrotimes.com. We’ll call you for your credit or debit card info for payment. To place an ad by phone call Patrick Vadnais at 510-614-1560, Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
CONCRETE SERVICE
S.L. CONCRETE SERVICE Driveways, Sidewalks, Stamped Concrete, Retaining Walls, Asphalt, Paving Stones. Lic.#982202. 510856-8937. Advertise your Home for rent in the San Leandro Times & Castro Valley Forum DON’T LET ANOTHER WEEK SLIP BY!
– A vacancy day is money lost forever –
To place an ad call 510-614-1558
Fence wobbly? Call Randy's Fence NOTICE TO READERS Reinforcement and save thousands! California law requires that contrac- 510-706-6189. tors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License ARDENING Board. State Law also requires that contractors include their license number on all advertising. Advertis- *BEAUTY GARDEN LANDSCAPING ers appearing on this page without Design - Construction - Maintea license number indicate that the nance. Cleanups, New Lawn, Artificontractor is not licensed. You can cial Grass, Irrigation, Patios, Pathcheck the status of your licensed ways, Brick, Stone, Concrete Fence/ contractor at www.cslb.ca.gov or Decks. Free Estimates! Lic.#925130. (800) 321-2752. Unlicensed contrac- 510-691-8852. tors taking jobs that total less than www.beautygardenlandscaping.com $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by AL’S Keep It Green But Trim. the Contractors State License Board. Yard Maintenance. Since 1995. Great Rates. FREE Estimates. 510927-6663.
G
FENCES/DECKS
*SPECIALIZING IN WOOD FENCES, DECKS & RETAINING WALLS. Replace or repair, paved walkways, yard cleaning, tree trimming, topping or removal, garage cleaning & debris removal. Insured & Bonded #8189. Jerry 510-410-2427.
AL’S Keep It Green But Trim. Yard Maintenance. Since 1995. Great Rates. FREE Estimates. 510927-6663. NEED - MUSIC LESSONS or PIANO TUNING? Check the Classified Ads under “MUSICAL SERVICES” for help.
BAY AREA BLOSSOM LANDSCAPING. Cleanups, Hauling, tree service, maintenance, new patio, deck, painting, etc. Insured. Unlicensed. 510-499-5453.
JAIME’S GARDENING Maintenance, Trimming, Cleanups, Hauling, Sprinkler Repair/ Timers. FREE Estimates. Insured. 510-299-9583
GARDENING/TREE SERVICE
Just Like Gramma’s House Cleaning. Summer Special 10% OFF. 20 years experience. Licensed/ Insured. Phenomenal cleaning! BONDED. Owner Fatimah 510-978-6803.
The City of San Leandro is now accepting online applications for Crime Analyst $8,277 - $10,061/month For more detailed information, please visit www.sanleandro.org. EOE
NAVA'S COMPLETE LANDSCAPING: Mowing, trees, cleanup, hauling, FREE estimates. 510 512-5857. NOW HIRING - San Leandro Christian Preschool Part time and full time, units in ECD, $17-$20 hour. 510ANDYMAN ERVICE 12 435-8788.
H
S
IT’S TOTALLY FINISHED CONSTRUCTION. Lic.#583113. Floors, Carpet, Fences, Decks, Patios, Painting, Sheetrock, Windows, Remodeling. Martin 510-384-8041. CLASSIFIED AD DEADLINE: Monday 5:00 p.m.
You can place a FREE
“MISC. FOR SALE” ad for items $50 or less at: sanleandrotimes.com or at: castrovalleyforum.com or more info call Patrick Mon-Fri. 9am-1pm at 510-614-1560 (some restrictions may apply)
LORENA’S HOUSE CLEANING & HANDYMAN SERVICE •Also Carpet Cleaning/Installation FREE Estimates 925 435-7748 / 510613-5777
MISC. FOR SALE
7 speed bicycle, aluminum frame, 26” wheels, runs good. $50 firm. Will text/email photos. 510-517-3351.
Mongoose 21 speed mountain bike, aluminum frame, 26” wheels, runs good. $50 firm. Will text/email photos. 510-517-3351.
50 Christmas CD’s in excellent condition $50. Call 510-654-1951. LANDLORDS - Advertise your units! – A vacancy day is money lost forever – R. Bowman
Classified Advertising
MISC. WANTED WANTED - Reel to reel music tapes, Call Patrick 510-517-3351.
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
H
Are you interested in buying or selling a home or property? Would you like the help of a Professional Agent?
RENTALS
For assistance call ...
LANDLORDS – Advertise your units! A vacancy day is money lost forever ... R. Bowman
SERVICES
HANDYMAN & CONTRACTORS You can run a classified ad for a little as $30 a week. Your ad runs in both of our newspapers, the Castro Valley Forum on Wednesday and the San Leandro Times on Thursday. You can also save $5 by placing your ad on our website at castrovalleyforum.com or sanleandrotimes.com. We’ll call you for your credit or debit card info for payment. To place an ad by phone call Patrick Vadnais at 510-614-1560, Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
TREE SERVICE
*A CAREFUL TREE SERVICE. Certified. Arborist. Lic.#694067. Trimming, Removals. FREE Estimates. Bonded. Call 510-581-7377.
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM Wednesday, December 13, 2023
9
10 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
PHOTO COURTESY OF CVSAN
Do you know what goes in each bin? CVSan is reminding customers to sort compostable and recyclable materials into the appropriate containers.
CVSan: Keep Recycling and Composting in Holiday Plans Lue adds that food scraps and paper used to carry food like a pizza box can also go in the green cart to be composted. With the holidays in full swing, Castro Valley Sanitary This includes used paper District (CVSan) is reminding napkins, compostable plastic customers to sort compostable foodware, milk cartons, and egg cartons. and recyclable materials into the appropriate containers. Properly sorting your food “We have many resources scraps and other compostable materials also helps fight available for our community there are lots of different ways climate change, adds Lue, and it’s also been the state law to collect and place those materials in your green or blue since January 2022. State law (SB 1383) requires residents cart instead of putting them and businesses to keep comin a landfill,” Naomi Lue, a postable and recyclable materisupervisor with CVSan, told als out of California’s landfills. the Forum. While putting green waste In addition, some businesses such as grocery stores, food from the yard, like leaves, distributors, and large restauweeds, and grass trimmings, in the green bin seems logical, rants must recover and donate By Michael Singer
CASTRO AVLLEY FORUM
their surplus edible food. To help encourage customers to put more compostable materials in the green bin, agencies like CVSan are providing various-sized green bins that are perfect to keep in the kitchen area or wherever food waste may be generated. In this way, those carrot tops, onion skins, and 10-year-old fruit cake can make their way into a compost collector. “It’s a huge step that each home and business can have by redirecting food into green containers,” Lue said. “The benefit is to help the climate and reduce greenhouse gas emissions instead of putting into landfill.” see CVSAN on back page
Thanks to You, Billy Bradford
Thanks for Support Against Quarry Plan
Dear Editor, In last week’s Forum Billy Bradford thanked the Castro Valley community for their long time support, prior to his move to Mexico. I would like to thank him back for all that he has given to Castro Valley. Billy Bradford has been such an asset to this community. He has done so much volunteering in various ways for the last 16 or so years. Besides his Bad Business Model Bikes in which he repaired and gave away bikes to people who couldn’t afford a new bike, he could often be found at the CV Center for the Arts. He volunteered there in whatever capacity they need him. When his son played baseball at CVHS, Billy announced the games. Then his son attended Chabot College, and Billy became the announcer there. When his son moved on, Billy went back to CV High and has been the voice of Trojan baseball ever since. He also started doing DJ work for any group or school that asked. He did family dances, field days, Ed Foundation events and Sports Foundation events. All these things he did because they brought him joy. He made no money for giving his time and expertise. In 2010, some CVHS kids reached out to him to help them put on a Pride event. These were kids who had been marginalized and maybe even made to feel invisible until Billy got involved. Now they proudly display their identity at the annual Pride event at the high school every year. It is a joyful event. By the time you read this, Billy Bradford and his wife, Ari, will be on their way to their new home in Mexico. I, for one, will miss his kindness and generosity. I hope they find happiness in their new life. Thank you, Billy Bradford. –Jessica Barrett, Castro Valley
I wanted to take this opportunity to thank the community members of San Leandro and Castro Valley for your incredible support in our fight against EBMUD’s plan to turn the Quarry site into an infill dirt dumpster for the next 40 to 80 years. Due to your efforts, and the tenaciousness of our EBMUD Board Member, April Chan, we have stopped the project for the foreseeable future. EBMUD notified the owners of the Quarry that they were not exercising their option to purchase the site, which expired in October. Kat Wellman, the chair of the Save Lake Chabot Road coalition, was the catalyst for this result. Her leadership, professionalism, and organizational skills were the driving force to galvanize our coalition members and communities into action to oppose this project, which also generated the unanimous support of the San Leandro City Council and the Castro Valley MAC. When we met with EBMUD General Manager Clifford Chan and his staff last February they asked us to help them find alternatives for their pipeline replacement dirt. We offered several possible alternatives. Paul Merrick of our group was able to locate a viable option at the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project, where EBMUD is now conducting a pilot project much more suitable to their needs. We are continuing to pursue a good steward to purchase the Quarry site to protect it from any further detrimental plans to destroy the beautiful, natural open space we currently enjoy and we will keep you apprised of this exciting potential development. Thank you again for your overwhelming response to this monumental project. Your voices were heard and you made the difference in preserving our communities and the valuable surrounding environments of Lake Chabot Park, Fairmont Ridge and our local San Leandro Parks. –Anne Cawood, San Leandro
SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MERCHANTS Upper Grove Way Auto Repair Bring this ad in for
30 off LABOR
$
For services of $100 or more
DAVE’S TAVERN TAXI SERVICE
Mon - Sat 7am - 7pm Off Sunday
Airports & Amtrack Transportation Open 24 Hours With Prior Notice
• Brakes • Diagnostic • Check Engine Light • Wheel Alignment Since 1959
• Foreign and Domestic • Complete Auto Repair
537-4438 2932 Grove Way, Castro Valley
Hours: Mon. - Fri. - 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
R&J QUICK CLEAN CENTER 2522 CASTRO VALLEY BLVD • 510-581-9797
LARGE & CLEAN Laundromat with: • 16Lb., 25Lb., 50Lb. & 65Lb. commercial washers (Great for Bedspreads, Sleeping Bags, & Blankets!) • Attendants Present • Monitored Surveillance • Free Wifi Internet • Self-Service Pressing Station
ANYTHING
TO OAKLAND AIRPORT ONLY
TO OR FROM BART $600 - $12 TO SF or SJ AIRPORT $60
510-303-3478
Dry Cleanable Clothes, Drapes & More!
5
$ 50
per lbs.
Washed & Dry Services • Sleeping Bags • Bedspreads • Blankets Same Day Service When Available
NOW OPEN 7 DAYS! 8am-8pm
TO ADVERTISE CALL:
Linda Nakhai 510-915-1513 Claudette Morrison 510-912-1490
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
11
MAC: ADU Modifications, Other News half-mile of public transit or continued from front page the property already has a Rodrigo Orduna, assistant multi-family dwelling that is planning director for the at least two- stories, the height county, said that ADUs are can be 18 feet tall if a unit is beneficial because they are helpful for first-time homeown- attached to a home, it can be ers/ renters, can enable multiple 25 feet. generations of a family to live Other changes: previously, together and provide additional an ADU permit had to be income for homeowners who approved or denied within 60 might be struggling with their days by a municipal planning mortgage payments. department. Sometimes, this “We are in a housing crisis process would take longer, and departments would just deny in California, and we need applications once the 60 days to provide more affordable were up. Now, the law requires homes,” said Orduna. the municipalities to specify Orduna added that the county expects to see approx- all the reasons an application is denied. imately 414 ADUS in the unincorporated area during the AB221 also allows builders next 8-year housing cycle and to propose and build ADUs receive “a couple” of weekly while building multi-family applications. housing. Previously, developers Under the law, all cities must had to complete their housing projects before trying to get allow ADUs to be as much approval for ADUs. as 16 feet tall, meaning there could be two-story ADUs. Also, if an ADU is under Further, if a unit is within a 800 square feet, it now cannot
be denied because of front setback requirements. Under AB221, municipalities may be more permissive than the state regarding ADUs, but not less. Also, the laws will default to the state statutes if the county doesn’t have its own legislation. Some members of the MAC said that it’s not optimal to make unilateral decisions because each city or county has its own unique challenges. Others said they were worried that having ADUs could potentially impact neighbors but also acknowledged the need for more housing. The ADU modifications will next go to the Planning H.A.R.D. and ODC/Dance to present a spectacular rendition of “The Velveteen Rabbit” playing this Saturday and Sunday at Douglas Morrisson Theater. Commission in the new year and are expected to be before the Alameda County Board of Supervisors in February 2024. The MAC also approved an application to allow the continued operation of a massage establishment and massage school at 2881 Castro Valley Boulevard, the current site of dancers of the ODC Dance from H.A.R.D’s dance proThe Hayward Area Healing Touch Massage. Company at the Douglas Mor- Can You Help Me Reconnect gram, is a heartwarming adRecreation and Park District The establishment was aptation of Margery Williams’ risson Theatre. (H.A.R.D.) has teamed up initially granted the ability to With My Long Lost Friend? with ODC/Dance to present a cherished book. Performances will be on operate in 1985 when it was spectacular rendition of “The Prepare to be enchanted Saturday, December 16 from primarily a medical office that Velveteen Rabbit.” 6 to 7:45pm and Sunday, as “The Velveteen Rabbit” offered physical therapy and Dear Editor, overflows with humor, festive December 17 from 2 to 3:45 Voted as San Francisco chiropractic services, but medI am hoping someone in the community can help me reconpm. The performance duration nect with my childhood friend. I have not been able to find her. ical services have since been costumes, whimsical characMagazine’s Best of the Bay, ODC/Dance is making a rare ters, and just the right touch of is 90 minutes with a 15-minute Her pre-married name was Susan Warren, and we were such discontinued. The proposed Intermission. appearance in the East Bay to holiday joy! This captivating massage establishment/ school close friends when I lived in Castro Valley in the 1950s. Her commemorate the 37th anni- production boasts engaging Secure your tickets conve- parents’ names were Nick and Marge Warren. She had two is being reviewed because it narration, a delightful musical niently from our online box versary of this beloved Bay will now be a primary massage sisters. Debbie was the youngest, and Vickie (I think) was the score composed by Benjamin office by visiting our online Area holiday tradition. “The business when, in the past, the oldest. Susan and I were both Navy brats. Our fathers worked Britten, and larger-than-life Velveteen Rabbit,” directed box office:https://douglasmor- at Oak Knoll Hospital and the Presidio. Susie was a year older, massage aspect was ancillary, storybook characters brought rissontheatre.thundertix.com/ but that didn’t matter. We became fast friends and were together according to the county. and choreographed by KT Nelson and featuring students to life by the world-class events/218468 most days during summer. Also, at Monday night’s I went to Marshall Grade School, and we lived at 19208 Cen- meeting, the MAC approved ter St. And then tragedy struck. My dad retired from the Navy, their meeting schedule for all and we moved to Washington State, where my father was born. of 2024, including 24 land use We would visit California, and they would come to Washington. meetings and 12 general purThe last time I saw Susie was when I was 15 and she was 16. pose meetings of the council. and decision he made led him continued from front page Coolidge currently works I am 74 now and surely would love to find her. I’m hoping along that path to today. writing classes that really out of San Diego but consisomeone in Castro Valley might know where she is today. Please helped me in writing music,” ders the Bay Area home and “Even my non-hit songs email me at pansielady62@gmail.com. he said. would like to return soon. somebody heard on some Since 1965 –Georgene Bean streaming service. And maybe Meanwhile, he said, he’s finishCoolidge said he usually ing up several projects as a started out with a beat, which they told someone else who could be from almost any style might be in music. Or maybe producer. of music, before adding words they were involved in music His longer-term goal is to IN LOVING Mortuary & themselves, maybe even well- become financially successand music. Crematory MEMORY “About half the time it ends known, and they remember the ful enough as a musician to 21228 Redwood Rd., support his family, but then go up as a rap, and the other half name when a project comes IF YOU NEED ASSISTACE PLACING AN up they’d like to work with me on to give back to Bay Area Castro Valley the time as a song,” he said. OBITUARY NOTICE, PLEASE VISIT OUR on,” he said. communities and especially “With ‘Your Power,’ I was 581-9133 WEBSITE: WWW.MYCVFORUM.COM Castro Valley. asked to work with the artists “One of the producers of and a group of people, and I the Grammy-nominated song He thanks his parents, Craig Offering sent them some beats to work called me because he’d liked and Kim, his sister Jill, and his with. It ended up a Grammy album ‘Moonside’ in “loving, wonderful girlfriend Personalized my-nominated song.” 2021,” Coolidge said. Ashley” for their roles in his Memorial and success so far and says he got He said he hasn’t worked He cut back on doing live that much in the field of Chris- shows when the pandemic hit, much of his inspiration and Cremation encouragement from Castro tian music himself but was though he’d appeared live in Services. Valley itself, though. happy to provide material to San Francisco, Oakland, and artists Lecrae and Tasha Cobbs Castro Valley by then. “There are lots of good Leonard, who had. “Touring is good, but one people, good energy, and good friends, and very little bad So how did he get from a can do much of your music energy there,” he said. “When Castro Valley High music lover from home these days,” he said. “But I’m getting the itch you go to Castro Valley, there’s to being a professional musician nominated for a Grammy? to go back to live performing a charmingness to it. It’s a www.DeerCreekCremation.com FD 1168 CR49 good energy incubator.” Coolidge said every experience soon.”
H.A.R.D. and OCD Dance To Present ‘Velveteen Rabbit’
Letters continued...
Grammy: Tyler Coolidge Nominated
Jess C. Spencer
12 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, December 13, 2023
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Jason Gee Our Athlete of the Week is Jason Gee. This Castro Valley High School graduate learned to bowl at Castro Village Bowl. He bowls for UC Davis and has the highest collegiate bowling average in the nation, with a 227 average. Last week, Jason won two titles at the West Coast Collegiate Championships in Fresno. This year, he has bowled four perfect games and won four collegiate tournaments.
The Matt Wilhite Team proud to Isisproud to sponsor sponsor Athlete of the Week Athlete of the Jason GeeWeek
Boomer is a 1.5 year old Doberman mix. Boomer is looking for a very active home that will take him out on adventures and train him to be a fantastic boy. Boomer would do well in a home with Teens and up. To meet or adopt Boomer, contact the Hayward Animal Shelter at 510-293-7200.
Santana is a 7 year old German Shepherd mix. Santana is looking for someone who he can look to for guidance to build his confidence. Santana is sweet and would love to be in his forever home. To meet or adopt Santana, contact Hayward Animal Shelter at 510-293-7200.
Standard Oil Change
Includes
Synthetic Oil Change
Smog Inspection
Free brake & seasonal check up
Five Fitness Tips to Know for New Year ones with real world implications that This is a scary time of year, make your friends. Right about now you’ll real life betstart to see things. Things that ter. It doesn’t have to take defy description, logic, and long, and you don’t have to do common sense. Things that back-breaking workouts, either. challenge all we hold to be true. Here’s 5 things to know to I’m talking, of course, about arm yourself against the crazy New Years gym and personal hyped-up stuff so when you see it, you can fight back. trainer promotions. 1. There are no quick fixes. Terrifying stuff, indeed! You know I’m right. Your We know deep down that body just doesn’t work like that these promises are as real as and by the way, that’s a good Santa, and yet each year they arrive just the same. And you thing. If someone promises you something crazy, just back know that if they do come around each year, that means away slowly. the lies must still work. 2. Avoid extreme methods. 1000 calories diets…crazy That makes me sad and workouts that make you feel angry. like death warmed over...never So, what do you say this year we do our best to change eating another cookie. Does that, huh? Not fall for that gar- any of that really make sense? bage. Not give in to the New 3. Consistency is key. When Year Transformation Challenge starting a workout program, quick-fix stuff you’ll, see? keep that in mind. Yeah, it’s expertly marketed 4. Do something you like… with amazing before & after or at least don’t hate. I get that pictures and incredible mesexercise isn’t everyone’s idea of saging and boy-oh-boy do we a good time, but if you join a want it to be true. But it’s not. program doing something you hate, you won’t do it, no matter The good news, though, is what your intentions were. that you can get results. Real By Mitch Rothbardt
SPECIAL TO THE FORUM
Trust me. I’ve seen it many times. 5. Don’t use the scale to gauge your success. The scale isn’t a measure of your health or your worth. Don’t believe anyone who tells you that merely losing weight will make you healthier or happier. Losing weight may not have any effect on either one and in many cases leaves you less healthy and more unhappy than before you started. The myth that losing weight will cure all is perhaps the biggest lie there is. Don’t fall for it. I know this may ask you to change some things about what you’re listening to or believe, but it’s worth it. Ask me any questions you like about any of it or if you just want some help on picking your own exercise program for 2024. I promise you I’ll help, even if it isn’t mine. My email is listed below. Mitch is the owner and head trainer at Castro Valley Fitness. He loves answering your fitness questions at the dog park with Penny, Max, and Tex most afternoons or by sending him an email at: Mitch@ CastroValleyFitness.com.
Fame: 1994 CVHS Girls Volleyballers continued from front page With a mind reset, the to feed the ball to the new girls. Trojans came out and won “Every game we were getting the next three sets, each one used to each other.” a nail biter. It may not have “Eric kept telling us we were been as easy as the year before only as strong as our weakest but, to the seniors, it was more satisfying. link,” Heather recalled. That meant the team had to come “We won that year on the together as a unit and that’s shoulders of the work put in by exactly what happened. many girls who came before The season culminated with us,” Alyssa said. “It can’t be a five-set victory over Ukiah in overstated how important the girls before us were to our the NCS finals, a thriller that success. They set the tone and saw the Trojans come back from a two-set deficit. Alyssa laid the foundation.” described what happened after “The ’93 team was our the second set. inspiration, just as Glen was “It was the apex of my frus- an inspiration for me,” Boice recalled. “No one expected us tration,” she said. “I was just to win it all in 1994. It was a making dumb mistakes. Eric pulled me aside and told me to surprise.” get that frustrated look off my The unity created on that face and get out there and win 1994 team has lasted for three this game. He kind of reamed decades. Many of the women me out.” on that team have remained
close, sharing many of life’s milestones such as marriages and family deaths. “So much of life is about relationships,” Heather Miller reflected. “That’s what we learned.” In addition to those already mentioned, the 1994 team consisted of Brandi Walls, Gigi Townsend, Nicole Abella, Judi Behnken, Meghan Sutliffe, Leslie Welch, Shauna Welch, Sara Szalay and Jill Schmitz. Boice’s assistant coaches were John Hierro, Tom Sammons, Dean Sutcliffe, Eric Jacobson, and Jeff Mar. Marilyn Bowman served as team coordinator. This is the first in a series of 16 articles profiling the 2024 inductees into the Castro Valley Sports Hall of Fame.
CVSan: Offers Additional Collections continued from page 10 While the logical place for cardboard, paper, and empty bottles and cans is the blue bin, CVSan is one of the few waste agencies that has expanded its capabilities. “Periodically, we offer additional collections for things not normally found in a blue bin,” Lue said. This includes old textiles
collected the first full week of recycled materials such as June and October each year. Recycle #3, #4, and #5 food Up to three used motor oil con- containers, yogurt containers, tainers (5 gallons or smaller) chicken broth and juice boxes, and three used oil filters can and food tubs or packaging. be placed next to the blue bin “After COVID, there was a each week. Dead batteries can lot of strain put on the recycling be put in a clear baggie for market,” Lue said. “Currently, identification and left on top of there is a lack of market for #3 the recycle bin. and #4 containers, but we will continue to collect those until CVSan also has contracts the market recovers.” that allow the collection of