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CASTRO VALLEY FORUM A COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SERVING CASTRO VALLEY SINCE 1989
YEAR 35
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2023
2023 Light Parade Shines Brightly on the Boulevard By Michael Singer
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Veterans Day
Veterans remembered on their day at the CV Veterans Memorial Park
Page 2
The Write Stuff
CV author Katherine Vaz’s new book gets national spotlight
Page 3
New Law
New law addresses gap in medical decision-making
Page 10
INDEX Calendar ................ 4 Classified Ads ......... 8 Crosswords ............. 9 Homes ..................... 6 Obituaries ............. 11 Opinions ............... 11 Our Town ................. 3 Seniors .................. 10 Sports .................. 12 Weather .................. 2 WWW.MYCVFORUM.COM
Last Saturday night, the lights shone brightly on Castro Valley Boulevard as the Light Parade returned to downtown for its 11th year. About 15,000 people lined the street to cheer on 65 different entries representing Castro Valley businesses, schools, law enforcement, government dignitaries, dancing Christmas trees, old-time cars, and even parents with their kids in wagons adorned with sparkly lights. Many participants drove, walked, and danced the half-mile stretch between Nunes Avenue and Redwood Road. The procession included The Grinch driving a brightly lit school bus and ended with the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus. The Theme of this year’s parade was “Honoring our Veterans,” which was appropriate since it was held on Veterans Day. The Castro Valley Eden Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the event along with PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRELL LAVIN/ LAVINPHOTOS.COM dozens of sponsors including TMC Productions. ‘TIS THE SEASON: Every Castro Valley Light Pa“I am always so impressed rade ends with Santa and Mrs. Claus. He will be with this community! We had appearing at the tree lighting ceremony in the Castro see LIGHT on page 4 Village this month and at Knudsen’s Ice Creamery.
NO. 46
MAC MEETING
Climate Action, Safety Element Plans Reviewed By Amy Sylvestri
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Alameda County is updating its Community Climate Action Plan (CCAP) and Safety Element (SE) for the first time in a decade. The CCAP document is a roadmap for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change. The revisions include equity and environmental justice in climate planning. The CCAP includes greenhouse gas emission forecasts, which create targets and strategies, and measures for improving emissions. The county’s most recent estimate is that 73 percent of emissions come from “on road transportation,” so strategies mainly involve getting cars off the road. State law had set reduction targets to hit the objective of carbon neutrality by 2045. One of the highest-scoring strategies in limiting greenhouse gasses is to eliminate gaps in the existing network of bicycle and pedestrian connections to transit, schools, parks, retail, and other community amenities. And public speakers at Monday’s meeting said they appreciated the focus on pedestrians and bicycling. “We really need to get people out of their cars,” said speaker Bruce Dughi. “We have great bones (infrastructure) in Castro Valley. A lot of stuff is very accessible.” Speaker Rebecca Stanek-Rykoff said that the desire for more easily accessible and safe pedestrian and bicycle features is something almost everyone in town wants despite a reluctance to sacrifice parking spots for bike lanes. She said closing gaps in the pedestrian/ bike infrastructure would benefit everyone. see MAC on back page
Incorporation Feasibility Report Accepted Consultant Richard Berkson of Berkson Associates presented a revised financial feasibility update and recommendaIf Castro Valley became a tions to the LAFCO Board. city, it would need to create more revenue than the County The report considers a plan to incorporate Castro Valley by would provide to cover its itself, or Castro Valley with costs, according to a consultant’s report before the County’s the inclusion of the Eden Area (San Lorenzo, Hayward Acres, Local Agency Formation Ashland, and Cherryland) and Commission (LAFCO) last Fairview, or the incorporation Thursday. By Mike McGuire
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
of the Eden Area and Fairview, but not Castro Valley. No new cities have been formed in California since 2011. The LAFCO Board voted to accept the report but did not take a stand on Castro Valley cityhood. If residents desire cityhood, it will take either a petition signed by a designated number of registered voters or an application by a government
legally able to propose a new city. Contrary to belief by some, that can’t be LAFCO, said board President Karla Brown. “It’s not legal for us to apply to form a new city.” Funding Gap While plans to incorporate the unincorporated areas nearby would have an even bigger gap between costs and
revenues if they pursued cityhood, Berkson noted, he did suggest Castro Valley cityhood proponents should consider including the Canyonlands area (parts of Crow Canyon, Cull Canyon, Palomares Road) in their efforts, as it would have little effect on financial feasibility. Currently, Alameda County see REPORT on page 5
2 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
Castro Valley Weather November 15 - November 19, 2023
Wednesday
PM Showers High 71° Low 55°
Thursday
Mostly Cloudy High 74° Low 56°
Almanac
Friday
Showers High 70° Low 56°
Past Week’s Rain: 00.00 Season To Date: 00.71 Normal To Date: 00.00 Season Average: 00.00
Saturday
Showers High 69° Low 51°
Sunday
Partly Cloudy High 71° Low 47°
Moon Phases
Nov 19
Nov 26
Dec 5
Dec 12
Sun sets at 4:57 p.m. today, rises at 6:47 a.m. Thursday. PHOTO BY MICHAEL SINGER
Castro Valley was fortunate to have two WWII veterans in attendance at this year’s Veterans Day event at the Community Center Park. Of the 16.1 million Americans who served in the global conflict, little more than 119,000 are still living as of this year, according to the National World War II Museum.
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Veterans Remembered at the CV Veterans Memorial Park Corps Veteran Joseph Trujillo, Remoaldo was also present. who will be one hundred years Dressed in red, white and old in December, and Army blue from the bow in her hair to her boots, ten-year-old November 11 was a beauti- Veteran Toft Jeggen, who turned 102 in April! January Karbowski sung our ful Castro Valley morning to National Anthem with talent remember, celebrate and honor “Rendering of Honors and enthusiasm well beyond our United States Veterans of to Our Veterans” was acher years. The guest speaker the Military at the Castro Val- complished multiple times was retired First Sergeant ley Veterans Memorial Park throughout the program Kathleen Vargas (retired), who on Quail Avenue in Castro starting with Posting of the Valley. More than one hundred Flags and ending with the Rifle served in the US Army for 32 years (14 active and 18 in and fifty were in attendance Salute and Taps in memory the reserves). First Sergeant representing veterans who are of our fallen heroes. VFW still alive as well as those who Post 9601 Commander Chris Vargas is a veteran of the war made the ultimate sacrifice for Bokamper served as master of in Afghanistan. Colonel John our Great Country. Honored ceremonies. American Legion McPartland, US Army see VETERANS on page 10 guests in attendance were Air Post 649 Commander Bernard By Bruce D. Johnson
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CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
CV Author Katherine Vaz’s Book in National Spotlight
Sheriff’s Reports COMPILED BY MICHAEL SINGER • CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Spousal Assault Two Arrested for Drug Use Thursday, November 9: at Friday, November 10: at 2:57 p.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested 11:46 a.m., a 22-year-old woman from Castro Valley was artwo transient men on suspirested on suspicion of spousal cion of using and possessing illegal drug paraphernalia. The assault. Deputies were called to an apartment on Strobridge men were loitering behind a fast-food restaurant on Castro Avenue near the Interstate Valley Boulevard near Yeandle 580 freeway in response to Avenue. Deputies report they a call about an altercation at arrested a 32-year-old man and the property. The woman was a 28-year-old man at the scene. taken into custody. The victim was treated at the scene. The younger man was also found to have a warrant issued Elder Abuse for his capture. The men were Wednesday, November 8: at taken into custody. 11:16 a.m., deputies arrestAssaulted Family Members ed a 43-year-old man from Castro Valley on suspicion of Thursday, November 9: at elder abuse. The man was at 10:12 p.m., a 911 call about a loud and aggressive-sounding a home on Bret Harte Court near Edwin Markham Drive argument sent deputies to when deputies responded to an a home near Castro Valley Boulevard and Rizzo Avenue. emergency call. The man was There, they arrested a 30-year- taken into custody. The victim old man from Castro Valley on was treated at the scene. suspicion of assault on a family Breaking and Entering, member and a juvenile. The Assault with Deadly Weapon man was taken into custody. The victims were treated at the Tuesday, November 7: at 12:00 PHOTO CREDIT: BEOWULF SHEEHAN scene.
By Linda Sandsmark
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Castro Valley native Katherine Vaz has authored a new book, “Above the Salt,” which was chosen Book of the Week by People Magazine. It is prominently featured in People’s November 13 issue, with Matthew Perry on the cover. “I’ve been working on this book for over 16 years,” says Vaz, who now lives in New York. “The most gratifying thing is that reviewers say the language is very poetic, but the story is gripping and wellpaced with unexpected twists and turns.” “Above the Salt” follows Protestant immigrants from the Portuguese island of Madeira to Illinois in the late 1800s. Described as an equal parts love story and immigrant experience, it follows a couple through America’s Civil War period and beyond. Readers will discover the meaning of “Above the Salt” during a scene in the book with AbraAuthor Katherin Vaz grew up in Castro Valley. Her new book “Above the Salt” comes out this month. Stalking, Resisting Arrest ham Lincoln. Thursday, November 9: at Katherine Vaz has written extensively about the experiVaz’s interest was rekindled by was always where we had the 8:21 p.m., deputies arrested a 24-year-old man from Castro ences of Portuguese people in the materials inside. She based family holidays when I came Valley on suspicion of vioAmerica. Her father August her novel on the real-life stories to California. I have happy Vaz came from the Azores memories of walking with my lating a restraining order and of these immigrants. resisting arrest. The man was and spoke Portuguese as his best friend Colleen Hammer Vaz has authored several reported within 100 yards of first language. He and his wife books, including “Saudade,” to Castro Village and Al’s raised six children on Somerset “Mariana,” “Our Lady of Market. And I had such a good a home on Lake Chabot Road Avenue in Castro Valley. time taking swimming lessons near Somerset Avenue. Depthe Artichokes,” and “Fado uties dispatched to the scene at the Castro Valley High Vaz attended Our Lady & Other Stories.” She is the pool. We would always get an tried to remove the man from of Grace School and Bishop first Portuguese American to the property, but he became ice cream sandwich from the O’Dowd High School. She have her work recorded for graduated from the University the Archives of the Library of vending machine they used to confrontational. The man was handcuffed and taken into of California Santa Barbara Congress, Hispanic Division. have there.” see AUTHOR on page 5 custody. and got her master’s at UC The Ambassador to the U.S. Irvine. Over the years, she from Portugal is throwing her a has worked at UC Davis and book launch party at the end of Harvard and did some teaching the month. Since and writing in New York. Despite these cosmopolitan 1969 After giving a talk at successes, Vaz still thinks the Library of Congress fondly of Castro Valley. Four many years ago, Vaz saw an of her siblings still live in the interesting display about the Bay Area, and two went to NATURAL FOODS San Leandro Portuguese Protestants of Castro Valley High, where her Store 182 Pelton Center Illinois. Intrigued, she started godmother Clementina Vaz (510) 483-3630 intermittent research about was a P.E. teacher long ago. these folks. During one of her “I’ve always felt that it was Castro Valley moves, the box holding the my little corner of the Bay 3446 Village Dr. materials about them broke. Area,” she says. “Castro Valley (510) 581-0220
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p.m., a 35-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of breaking and entering into a building on San Carlos Avenue and Park Way, as well as assault with a deadly weapon. The man also had a warrant issued for his capture for a previous conviction of threatening with a deadly weapon and contempt of court. Deputies handcuffed the man and took him to Santa Rita Jail. Warrant Served for Stay-Away Violation Tuesday, November 7: at 9:25 a.m., deputies arrested a 38-year-old woman from Castro Valley as part of a warrant issued for her capture. When deputies served the warrant, the woman was at a home on Heyer Avenue near Center Street. The woman had been previously been convicted of four counts of violating a restraining order and disorderly conduct. Deputies took the woman to Santa Rita Jail.
Give back this season, one meal at a time The holidays can be especially lonesome for homebound seniors in Castro Valley and San Leandro. Bring a senior a meal, a smile, and joy this holiday season.
Get involved today: sosmow.org 510-244-0165 John@sosmow.org
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4 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
GIVING TUESDAY AT JP’S
Plethos Productions is holding a unique fundraiser at JP’s Restaurant in Castro Valley. Support this local, volunteer-owned nonprofit theater by singing or nominating someone to sing at Karaoke for a Cause. Donations of any amount will get you or your nominee up on stage for a great night of all-ages karaoke. This is a “pay what you can” fundraiser, so that everyone who would like to support with any amount is able to participate. Plethos Productions has a big goal this year is to raise $10,000 to support expansion in 2024, and the focus for their 7th season’s big goals: bringing on more staff, offering more scholarships to Stagecraft Camp for Kids and creating a new theatre retreat for adults. Plus Plethos has been touring local buildings in hopes of getting a dedicated space. The community is invited to help make these big dreams come true! Sing your heart out this Giving Tuesday at JP’s Family Restaurant, Tuesday November 28, 6 to 8pm. Tickets are pay-what-you-can at plethos.org
Light: Parade continued from front page over 150 volunteers making the event happen, great vendor and participant turnout, and a HUGE crowd,” said Gary Slate, Executive Director for the Chamber. The street party kicked off at 3:00 p.m. with nearly 40 vendors, a festive kid zone, street food, and festive drinks served by the Chamber members. Slate added that there was a record community turnout this year, and the overwhelming feedback from the crowd was that this was “the greatest Light Parade ever experienced!” The schools and community groups were festively lit to welcome in the holiday season. There was even an impromptu dance-off between the costumed mascots from Castro Valley Elementary (tiger), Chabot Elementary (bear), Palomares Elementary (eagle), and Creekside Middle School (wildcat). “The parade had everything,” said Castro Valley resident Janella Anquiano. “Great weather and food, floats, lots of kids, dancing Christmas trees, and Santa. What more could you want?”
Kurdish-Iranian Author Ava Homa to Speak at the Hayward Public Library will sign copies of her book Ava Homa, Kurdish-Iranian at the end of the program and author of the book Daughcopies of the book will also be ters of Smoke and Fire, will available for purchase at the discuss, and read from, her event. award-winning book as part of Hayward Public Library’s Jennifer Carson is a novelist, Many Voices series. This essayist, and book critic. Her free event will take place at work has appeared in the New the Weekes branch at 27300 York Times Book Review, Los Patric Avenue, in Hayward, on Angeles Review of Books, Saturday, December 2, from 1 Barnes & Noble Review, Scito 2:30pm. All are welcome! ence, Six Hens Journal and Los Angeles Times. She is also the Listen to Ava Homa in founder of the literary organiconversation with literary critic zation To the Lighthouse. and author, Jennifer Carson, as she talks about growing up in Registration is encouraged, Iran, her journey to becoming but not required. In case of a the first female Kurdish author full house, preference will be published in English, and given to those who have regissome of the challenges facing tered in advance. To register for both women and Kurds in the this event or to find out more Author Ava Homa holding her book ‘Daughters of Smoke and Fire’ Middle East. about it, go to: bit.ly/HPLHoma The Weekes Branch Library Ava Homa is an award-winWilliam Saroyan International O’Connor Short Story Prize. ning novelist, a journalist, an is also hosting a book discusactivist, and a writing instruc- Writing Prize, and has earned Homa’s writings have appeared sion group about Daughters of in media like the Globe and tor at California State Universi- recognition as a selection in Smoke And Fire on Saturday ty, Monterey Bay. Her ground- Roxane Gay’s prestigious book Mail, BBC, Literary Hub, and November 18 from 2 to 3pm. Literary Review of Canada. club, Literati. Homa’s collecbreaking novel, Daughters of For more information, contact She was also recently awardSmoke and Fire, received the tion of short stories, Echoes the Branch Manager at Meleed the 2023 California Arts from the Other Land, was a 2020 Silver Nautilus Award, sha.Owen@hayward-ca.gov or Council Fellowship. Homa Ava (510) 293-5214. nominee for the 2011 Frank was a finalist for the 2022
COMMUNITY CALENDAR Tomorrow • Thursday, November 16 Poetry Takes Flight: Birds of California The Friends of the Castro Valley Library are honored to present James Roethe, author and poet, in a discussion of his latest book Poetry Takes Flight: Birds of California on Thursday, November 16 from 2 pm to 3:30 pm at the CV Library. James Roethe is a life-long hiker and birdwatcher who has written in verse about birds seen on a typical hike in the Bay Area. He will read several of his poems and will talk about his birdwatching adventures. RSVP by visiting: aclibrary.org. Light refreshments will be served. Tomorrow • Thursday, November 16 Free Home Energy Efficiency Class We all want to feel comfortable in our homes. We want our HVAC, lighting, and appliances to work efficiently, save us money, and maintain a healthy environment. Attend this free class, tomorrow at 6 to 7:30pm at the CV Library Community Room, to learn how you can improve the efficiency of your home, and stick around to talk with County Planning staff about updates to the Community Climate Action Plan and Safety Element for unincorporated Alameda County. Hosted by the Alameda County CDA Planning Department, StopWaste, and BayREN. Tomorrow • Thursday, November 16 Learn What You Can Do to Fight Fentanyl “Fentanyl is everywhere. From large metropolitan areas to rural America, no community is safe from this poison,” according to the administrator of the US Drug Enforcement Agency. So what do we do in Castro Valley to keep our youth safe? This is a question that will be addressed at a free event tomorrow from 6:30 to 8:30pm at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts. You can register online at cvace. link/fentanyl or call CVACE at (510) 886-1000. Friday, November 17 League of Women Voters Meet & Greet League of Women Voters of the Eden Area (LWVEA) is hosting a Meet & Greet at Don Jose’s Mexican Restaurant for members and guests on Friday, November 17 from 6 to 7:30pm. This is a no host bar event. Meet new friends and find out more about local issues of concern and how to get involved. RSVP via email to: lwvea57@gmail.com. Saturday, November 18 Holiday Art & Crafts Sale at Adobe Art Center A.R.T., Inc. will be sponsoring the Holiday Art & Crafts Sale at the Adobe Art Center, located at 20395 San Miguel Ave. in CV this Saturday, November 18, from 10am to 2pm. Free Refreshments will be served. Don’t miss it! Saturday, November 18 Disabled Comedy Troupe hits CV Northern California’s only all Disabled Comedy Troupe will hit Castro Valley on their three day tour. The show takes place this Saturday, Nov. 18 at 7pm at JP’s Family Restaurant and Sports Lounge (3600 Castro Valley Blvd). For more information, visit: thecomedydencv.com. Saturday, November 18 Old West Escape Room Adventure at CV Library The Castro Valley Library presents, Old West Escape Room Adventure. Work as a team and use your wits to solve puzzles, unlock clues and escape the Room. Groups are limited to 10 people. There are various time slots available the day of the event. Groups should arrive 10 minutes prior to start time. This is a program designed for tweens and teens. Register you and your friends for 1 of 3 time slots: 12:00pm (for teens), 2pm (for tweens), 4pm (for teens). The CV Library is located at 3600 Norbridge Avenue. PLACE LISTINGS ONLINE: MYCVFORUM.COM/EVENTS
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
Author: Spotlight continued from page 3 Vaz now resides in New York with her husband, Christopher Cerf, whom she had met back in Irvine. The two had lost track of each other for over a dozen years but were reintroduced when she moved to New York. “We’ve been together 16 years now. Christopher wrote many of the original Sesame Street songs, and he’s still devoted to children’s literacy,” she says. Vaz says she is grateful that Flatiron Books/Macmillan published her book because they arranged publicity, leading to her inclusion in People magazine and other media. “Above the Salt” can be purchased at independent bookstores such as Books on B in Hayward and those listed at bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble, Amazon, etc. It is available in print, Kindle, and audiobook “Above the Salt” by Castro Valley native Katherine formats. TV/ film rights for the Vaz comes out this month. People Magazine feastory are represented by Rich tures “Above the Salt” by Castro Valley native KathGreen of The Gotham Group. erine Vaz as “Book of the Week” in its Nov. 13 issue.
Report: ‘We Need Better Numbers’
not to go forward with a fiscalcontinued from front page If voters or an agency did spends $46.9 million a year on ly irresponsible plan.” apply for Castro Valley cityservices to Castro Valley resihood, they or it would next be LAFCO commissioner dents. If Castro Valley became Ralph Johnson, who has required to carry out another a city, the County would only publicly backed cityhood, said feasibility study at an estimatreceive $35.9 million—a gap of that the law enforcement costs ed cost of $130,00-$180,000. about $11 million that the new proponents used were quite However, said Jones, that might city would have to make up, be reduced by $10,000 due to conservative, and better data Berkson said in his report. Berkson Associates having just might change the feasibility done a feasibility study. One potential new revenue picture. source from the state’s County “We need better numbers,” If the new study showed feaService Area (CSA) laws sibility, the next stop would be Johnson said. could lower that gap to about negotiations over revenues with Mellon urged Johnson to $2 million, much closer to a recuse himself from the discus- the County, seeking LAFCO break-even point. CSA funds sion and vote due to his public approval, and a vote by Castro are money the state pays the advocacy of cityhood. LAFCO Valley residents. Two previous County for public safety in un- Counsel Andrew Massey said votes on cityhood, in 1956 and incorporated areas that could Johnson had no personal fi2002, both failed. shift to a new city. The connancial stake in the discussion Asked by a board member sultant’s main finding assumed and that the board was merely to sum up the mood of public the County would continue to deciding whether to accept a meetings on cityhood, LAFCO receive those funds. consultant’s report, not to take Executive Officer Rachel Jones any action on a proposed new said people seemed interested The Berkson Associates in cityhood but a bit hesitant. report mentioned a community city. service district as one way Castro Valley could gain more control over services without forming a new city. The consultant said annexation to another city was also an option, but one where Castro Valley’s needs would not necessarily take priority. Frank Mellon, a Castro Valley resident, said the consultant’s findings bolster the case against cityhood. “The negative numbers are higher than we saw back in July (in a preliminary report), by about $3 million,” he said, adding, “LAFCO has a fiduciary responsibility to residents
5
Health & Fitness: How to Get Back in Touch with Your Body The result What are the usual problems? of this is simple: pain. Instead of them moving We see people with all We’re back and down, they move up in a shrug. Check yourself in a sorts of goals at Castro Valley too quick mirror as you try this. Fitness. They want to move to blame easier, feel more energetic, age when Are you moving your hips? have less pain, get off or avoid experiencing chronic pain. Age Too often people move their medication. A long and varied doesn’t necessarily have much low backs instead of their hips. list. Oftentimes, though, their to do with it. The real culprit is Back pain is sure to follow. biggest obstacle is something our lack of body awareness. What to do about it. they might not realize. Here’s some simple things to Stand with your back to a think about. They’re out of touch. wall. Take a small step forward Where are your shoulders? and push your butt straight back No, this isn’t about being a to the wall while keep your legs This is the biggest problem I Swiftie. I mean being out of soft and straight. Do not lock see. People’s shoulders up by touch with their bodies. their ears in a constant shrug. your knees. Think of it as pushThis is our biggest issue ing back not bending over. when it comes to our physical Feeling neck pain, shoulder pain, headaches, and lots and well-being. We simply don’t What are the usual problots of stress? feel what our body is doing. lems? We don’t feel where our shoulWhat to do about it. A rounded back. This leads ders are. We don’t feel if our Breathe deeply into your belly to pain soon after no matter hips are moving. We don’t feel and pull your shoulder blades how old you are. if our core is working. back and down. see FITNESS on back page By Mitch Rothbardt
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6 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
REAL ESTATE GALLERY REAL ESTATE REALITY
By Carl Medford, CRS
GUEST COMMENTARY
Special to the Forum
Sales Down Heading Into The Holiday Season By Carl Medford, CRS
W
Special to the Forum
ith Halloween in the rearview mirror, Thanksgiving advertising visible everywhere and Christmas decorations starting to appear, we are headed towards the Holiday Season. Officially beginning the day after Thanksgiving and lasting until January 2nd, for many it is their favorite part of the year. As holiday preparations begin, thoughts turn to turkey dinners, seasonal parties, family gatherings and more. Consequently, thoughts tend to turn away from … Real estate. The slowest season in the real estate calendar is usually November and December.
Peaking in September, sales usually begin to ease towards the end of the year and then come to life again in the spring. This year, however, with the sudden decrease in interest rates, some think we may see a bump in sales through to the end of the year. There is a caveat, however … we will need homes to sell. With 62% of current mortgage holders across the country locked in at rates at 4% or lower, there is not a lot of incentive for homeowners to sell. As a result, many of the homes hitting the market are there because circumstances dictate they be sold, including deaths, divorces, job relocations and the like. As result, the number of single-family
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homes available for sale in Castro Valley in October, 2023 dipped 25% from same time last year. Available homes in San Leandro dropped 35.4%, Hayward saw a larger dip of 36.8%, while San Lorenzo led the pack at a whopping decline of 61.5%. Alameda County as a whole saw a decrease of 28.6% in available properties for sale over last year. As a result, Castro Valley sales prices are up 7.4% from October, 2022. Haward prices increased 8.3%, San Leandro came in at 7.4% and San Lorenzo noted a 4% gain. While Castro Valley’s current list prices are .7% higher than last year, Hayward’s list prices have soared 14.8% in the same period. San Leandro comes in a bit lower at 9.46% while list prices have begun to decline in San Lorenzo, down to a .1% gain. Alameda County, on the other hand, has decreased county-wide to -1.1%. Everyone is down, however, from the peak at the end of the summer. Where do we go from here? While the numbers are higher than last year on average, the seasonal declines have already begun. Will lower rates reverse the decline? We’re going to have to wait to see.
As Treasury Yields Decline, Mortgage Rates Move Down November. Incoming data show that household debt continues to rise, primarily due to mortgage, credit card and student loan balances. Many consumers are feeling strained by the high cost of living, so unless mortgage rates decrease significantly, the housing market will remain stagnant.
Gerard Demiguel Construction and Plumbing n New & Repair Plumbing n Handyman Task n Bathroom Remodels n Custom Tile
Custom shower pans and waterproofing — LICENSED BONDED & INSURED —
License #987574
510 962 1227
Robert Jones and Associates DAVID S. WILHITE PROFESSIONAL FULL SERVICE REALTOR SERVING CASTRO VALLEY AND SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES FOR OVER 40 YEARS
510-329-8984
DRE#00759835
Matt Jones & Bob Jones
DRE#0137894
DRE# 00276097
Dilek Silva
DRE# 02139355
Ron Trentler
DRE# 02068317
We Are Here For You VETERAN USSHornet CVS12
142 JOAQUINAVE. • SAN LEANDRO • 510 -357-0120 RobertJonesandAssociates.com
RECENT HOME SALES
Castro Valley ————————— 4339 Omega Avenue 94546: $1,150,000 [3 BD - 1,726 SF - 1947 4053 Milton Avenue 94546: $1,200,000 [3 BD - 1,940 SF - 1959 2776 Sydney Way 94546: $1,215,000 [4 BD - 2,056 SF - 1952 4670 Lockridge Way 94546: $1,439,000 [4 BD - 2,106 SF - 1961 7963 Pineville Circle 94552: $1,450,000 [4 BD - 2,340 SF - 1997 TOTAL SALES: 5 LOWEST AMOUNT: $1,150,000 MEDIAN AMOUNT: HIGHEST AMOUNT: $1,450,000 AVERAGE AMOUN
$1,215,000 $1,290,800
Hayward ————————------22139 Castille Lane #56 94541: $580,000 [2 BD - 1,163 SF - 1983 22103 Vista Del Plaza Lane #22 94541: $670,000 [3 BD - 1,453 SF 1982 1251 Terrace Avenue 94541: $719,000 [2 BD - 850 SF - 1928 25470 Huntwood Avenue 94544: $730,000 [4 BD - 1,565 SF - 2007 648 Overhill Drive 94544: $750,000 [3 BD - 1,161 SF - 1958 242 Sullivan Way 94541: $800,000 [3 BD - 1,651 SF - 2010 25945 Peterman Avenue 94545: $870,000 [3 BD - 1,268 SF - 1956 27865 Pebble Court 94542: $1,020,000 [3 BD - 1,928 SF - 1967 17202 Los Banos Street 94541: $1,100,000 [5 BD - 2,391 SF - 1949 3112 Freestone Place 94541: $1,120,000 [3 BD - 1,922 SF - 2017 2149 Edgebrook Place 94541: $1,265,000 [3 BD - 2,020 SF - 1989 22177 Prospect Street 94541: $1,650,000 [5 BD - 3,971 SF - 1908 TOTAL SALES: 12 LOWEST AMOUNT: $580,000 MEDIAN AMOUNT: HIGHEST AMOUNT: $1,650,000 AVERAGE AMOUN
$835,000 $939,500
San Leandro ————————------16630 Liberty Street 94578: $720,000 [2 BD - 927 SF - 1954 115 Oakes Boulevard 94577: $830,000 [2 BD - 1,068 SF - 1923 14752 Lark Street 94578: $849,000 [3 BD - 1,279 SF - 1945 TOTAL SALES: LOWEST AMOUNT: HIGHEST AMOUNT:
3 $720,000 MEDIAN AMOUNT: $849,000 AVERAGE AMOUN
$830,000 $799,666
Happy Thanksgiving DO YOU HAVE A LIVING TRUST?
Your number “1” New Year’s Resolution if you own real property and don’t have a “Living Trust” is to get one! It costs more money to handle a probate sale than setting up a living trust. Designate your successor trustee and have your wishes communicated! The importance cannot be overstated! Contact a trust attorney ASAP and make an appointment! Save time, money and hassles! Call Trish 510 367-7999
Coldwell Banker Real Estate
Call Trish Radovich: 510-367-7999 calltrish@comcast.net
21060 Redwood Rd. Ste. 100, Castro Valley
Homes
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
7
How to Protect a Slope from Erosion (During Winter Rain)
and weeds. It’s installed much tles are long, tubular rolls of can lead to overripe and mushy not pull or twist. If the stem fragrance. like landscape fabric by laying noxious, weed-free rice straw pears. It is essential to harvest does not break easily, allow Special to the Forum it down over an area before wrapped in black plastic net- Anjou pears at the right time to the fruit to remain on the tree Buzz Bertolero is an AdHow might I protect planting. You start at the top of ting or burlap. They’re approx- ensure optimal flavor and tex- for a few more days. Comice, vanced California Certified my slope from eroding the slope, securing the edges imately eight to sixteen inches ture. Pick the fruit when green, Winter Nellis, and Anjou. The Nursery Professional. The Dirt with the heavy rains with Bio Stakes every two to wide and twenty-five to thirty complex, and full size for the aroma is a good indicator of the Gardener’s website is www.dirtpredicted for this winter? I just three feet. The seams are over- feet long, with a three to five- particular variety. To harvest pear’s ripeness. So. smell the pear gardener.com, and questions can finished planting it with creep- lapped four to six inches, and year life span. Wooden stakes pears, lift the fruit until the stem to determine its ripeness. A ripe be sent by email to buzz@dirting rosemary. Because it was you fold the bottom six inch- are driven into them every four separates from the branch. Do Anjou pears will have a sweet gardener.com. planted late, I don’t expect it to es under at the bottom of the feet to secure them. Water is be very effective in holding the slope. Plants are then planted released through the wattle at a ground. Jute netting has been through the large opening in the slower, steady rate. Jute Netting mesh, but you can cut it if nec- and Straw Wattles are probably suggested. essary for larger planting holes. not at your favorite garden cenI’d be concerned When sowing seed, the seed is ter but at an irrigation and land- Vegetables For a bumper harvest of broccoli, pinch out the main shoot a month after planting. This will result in with hillside erosion sowed first with the netting laid scape supply supplier, such as from the upcoming over the top. All is not lost since Horizon (www.horizononline. fewer—but larger—side shoots and the biggest overall yield. Cutting the main shoot after the head has already formed will result in more side shoots, but they will be smaller in size. rainy season, too. It should be you’ve already planted; I’d com) Set out garlic, onions and shallots from sets, planting them where they can dry out for the month an issue when the soil becomes stretch the net over the planted before harvest next June or July. My Anjou pears are saturated, probably around the area and push the vegetation not ripening. This is my Roses holidays or shortly after. Jute through the opening, cutting first crop, so I’m unsure Netting or Erosion Control it if necessary. Another option Stop watering and feeding roses. Prune lightly to remove long, bloomed-out canes, but hold off hard pruning until January when the bushes are fully dormant. Mesh is designed to be a soil is Straw Wattles or Erosion what to do next. surface and slope stabilization Logs. They’re commonly seen Pears are best har- Trees solution for erosion control. at construction sites along freethat shade and ornamental trees have shed their leaves, their need for pruning to correct vested before they ripen anyNow It’s made from a coarse, woven ways and are preferred in those problems is readily apparent by their fully exposed branches. Though pruning can be done and allowed to ripen off any time in fall and winter, there are good reasons for doing it now to eliminate potential hazards yarn and will biodegrade natu- areas with established plants. rally within six months to two They’re an excellent way to the tree. Tree-ripened pears will of weak, broken or diseased limbs crashing down in the storms that will be coming in the next few years, depending on microbial control sediment, erosion, and not develop their peak flavor weeks. Major problems with trees should be left to professional arborists. action, after clearing the debris stormwater runoff. Straw Wat- or texture. Harvesting too late By Buzz Bertolero
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WEEKEND GARDENER
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IS THERE ANYTHING WORSE THAN A BURNT TURKEY? CHOOSING THE WRONG LISTING AGENT
CALL OR TEXT FOR MORE INFORMATION (510) 906-8355
CASTRO VALLEY IS OUR BUSINESS, LIFE AND OUR PASSION JON & LESLIE REAL ESTATE GROUP
20880 REDWOOD RD. CASTRO VALLEY WWW.JONANDLESLIE.COM
EXP REALTY OF CA, INC, #01878277 | J-DRE# 01458054 | L-DRE #01804083
VALLEY FORUM 8 CASTRO Wednesday, November 15, 2023
Classified Advertising
ADVERTISEWITH WITH EAST EAST BAY BAY PUBLISHING PUBLISHING AND AND REACH REACH OVER OVER 65,000 60,000 ADVERTISE
HOPE YOU FIND just the jobAyou are looking for! NNOUNCEMENTS
You can run a with classified ad for Rent it FAST a TIMES a little as $35 a week. Your ad runs WANT AD ... 614-1558 in both of our newspapers, the Castro Valley Forum on Wednesday and the San Leandro Times on To Place an Ad call 614-1558 Thursday. You can also save by placing your ad on our website at castrovalleyforum.com sanleanTo Place a Garage Sale or Ad 614-1558 drotimes.com. We’ll call you for your credit or debit card info for payment. To by phone Toplace Placeana ad Garage Salecall Ad at 510-614-1560, Patrick Vadnais call 614-1558 Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
IF YOUR GARAGE SALE IS RAINED OUT, WE'LL RUN YOUR AD AGAIN FOR NO EXTRA CHARGE. SLTimes
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CONTRACTOR SERVICE Help for the homeowner
HOME SERVICES GUIDE means business for you!
GARDENING
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To an Ad ... AL’S Keep It Green But Trim. NOTICE TOPlace READERS Yard Maintenance. Since 1995. California law requires that contrac- Great Rates. FREE Estimates. 510Call 614-1558 tors taking jobs that total $500 or 927-6663. more (labor or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. State Law also requires that JAIME’S GARDENING Maintenance, Trimming, CleancontractorsHelp include theirhomeowner license for the ups, Hauling, Sprinkler Repair/ number on all advertising. Advertismeans business for you!Timers. FREE Estimates. Insured. ers appearing on this page without 510-299-9583 a license number indicate that the contractor is not licensed. You can check the status of your licensed contractor at www.cslb.ca.gov or OFB MOWING lawn mowing and (800) 321-2752. Unlicensed contrac- clean ups Call/Text 510-556-9344 tors taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board. GARDENING/TREE SERVICE
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Mirrors $10 each. Mission style (28’x44 1/2”). Faux leaf antique (28”x24 1/2”). 510-909-9851.
San Leandro Times
FENCES/DECKS
HOME SERVICES GUIDE Call 614-1558
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REAL ESTATE AGENTS
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MISC. FOR SALE
Are you interested in buying or selling a home or property?
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Would you like the help of a Professional Agent?
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)
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SELLWe YOUR CAR REAAALLLY appreciate our GSan ARDENING Leandromany Times Readers who support our OR TRUCK NOW! HOME SERVICES GUIDE Advertisers! Patrick V.
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HOPE YOU FIND just the HANDYMAN/ LANDSCAPING SERVICE. Maintenance, Cleanups, jobayou looking for! To Place Garage Ad music WANTED - are ReelSale to reel Hauling, Fences, Decks/ Patios, tapes, Call Patrick 510-517-3351. call 614-1558 *BEAUTY GARDEN Advertise yourPainting, vehicle forRepairs, Tree Work, We REAAALLLY appreciate our Call LANDSCAPING 614-1558 Concrete. 510-712-4318. Design - Construction - Maintemany Readers support our Rent it FASTwho with a TIMES 3 weeks in the San Leandro nance. Cleanups, New Lawn, Thanks Artifi- to our many Readers who IF YOUR GARAGE SALE IS V. Advertisers! Patrick WANT AD ... 614-1558 Times and 3 weeks in the cial Grass, Irrigation, Patios, PathSUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS! RAINED OUT, WE'LL RUN IT’S TOTALLY FINISHED CONways, Brick, Stone, Concrete CastroFence/ Valley Forum for only…Lic.#583113. Floors, YOUR AD AGAIN FOR NO STRUCTION. Decks. Free Estimates! Lic.#925130. EXTRA CHARGE. SLTimes To Place an many Ad call 614-1558 Carpet, Fences, Decks, Patios, PaintThanks to our Readers who 510-691-8852. SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS! www.beautygardenlandscaping.com ing, Sheetrock, Windows, Remodeling. Martin 510-384-8041.
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25 SELL YOUR CAR 10 words maximum. $1.00 for each Advertise your vehicle for 3 weeks inadditional the San Leandro word.
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This offer is for private party ads only (no dealers). Items must be priced and only one item may be listed for sale. You may 10 words change the asking price at anytime (no maximum. other changes are allowed). You may cancel your ad at anytime (there are no refunds $1.00 for available on this $25 special). Other restric- each tions may apply. For more information call additional Patrick at 614-1558. word.
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This offer is for private party ads only (no dealers). Items must be priced and only one item may be listed for sale. You may change the asking price at anytime (no other changes are allowed). You may cancel your ad at anytime (there are no refunds available on this $25 special). Other restrictions may apply. For more information call Patrick at 614-1558.
bath? Check the TIMES "Classified Ads" & The TIMES "Home Service" ads for help!
This offer is for private party ads only (no dealers). Items must be priced and only one item may be listed for sale. You may change the asking price at anytime (no other changes are allowed). You may cancel your ad at anytime (there are no refunds available on this $25 special). Other restrictions may apply. For more information call Patrick at 614-1558.
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Medium-length time rental ManageREE ERVICE ment Specialist (30 days - 3 months) Airbnb Superhost 10 years local experience Airbnb house clean, house staging, small and large house re- *A CAREFUL TREE SERVICE. pairs. YXWY Enterprise Tel: 408- Certified. Arborist. Lic.#694067. Trimming, Removals. FREE Estimates. 444-0609. Bonded. Call 510-581-7377. LANDLORDS – Advertise your HOME SERVICES GUIDE units! A vacancy day is money OUR NFO lost forever ... R. Bowman
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For assistance call ...
REAAALLLY appreciate our *SPECIALIZING IN We WOOD FENHOPEANTIQUE YOU FIND theKurtzman. grandjust piano, CES, DECKS RETAINING Help for& the homeowner many Readers who support our Best are offer.looking Text onlyfor! to 510-266job you IVEAWAYS WALLS. Replace or repair, for paved Help for the homeowner means business you! Patrick V. 2520. walkways, yard cleaning, Advertisers! tree trimmeans business for you! ming, topping or removal, garage 10 Jazz/ Blues vinyl LPs $50. Call/ cleaning & debris removal. Insured & FREE CASSETTES - Music from To Place an AdPACES ... ENTALS Rent FAST with a TIMES the it text 510-654-1951. Thanks to our many Bonded #8189. Jerry 510-410-2427. 40's Readers and 50's who Big Band era. 208-640WANT AD ... 614-1558 Call 614-1558 SUPPORT OUR 1635. ADVERTISERS! Fishing pole with reel in good condi- RV/ Trailer space in San Leandro tion $20. 510-278-9719. Fence wobbly? Call Randy's Fence and Oakland& Hayward. $925/ To Place an Ad call 614-1558 Reinforcement and save thousands! month. Call 510-481-9901. ANDYMAN ERVICE 510-706-6189.
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CASTRO VALLEY FORUM Wednesday, November 15, 2023
9
10 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
New CA Law Addresses Gap In Medical Decision-Making Q. My best friend of many The choice So, now, your friend’s doctors are free, in the circumyears is in the hospital and is would be from stances you describe, to choose not able to tell her doctors her the following you to speak for her, as a “close wishes regarding medical care. list of persons, personal friend” who has She has no close family mem- without any “demonstrated special care and bers and–unfortunately– has preference in concern...is familiar with [her] not designated a Health Care hierarchy: personal values and beliefs... Agent in writing, nor is she 1. the spouse or domestic and is reasonably available”. now capable of doing so. Is it partner of the patient; Some feel that the new law possible for me, her long time 2. an adult child of the now gives legal legitimacy and friend, to speak for her? patient; protection to what doctors have 3. a parent of the patient long been doing, albeit infor4. an adult sibling of the By Gene L. Osofsky, Esq. mally, in circumstances where patient SPECIAL TO THE FORUM 5. an adult grandchild of the the patient could not speak for herself. patient A. Yes! Under a new CaliFirst Sergeant Kathlee Vargas (US Army, retired) addresses the crowd at the fornia law effective this year 6. an adult relative or close Good wishes to you and to Castro Valley Veterans Memorial to share her experiences serving in Afghanipersonal friend your friend. She is lucky to stan. In 2021, women comprised 17.3% of the active-duty force, totaling 231,741 (2023), in the circumstances members, and 21.4% of the National Guard and reserves at 171,000 members. you describe, her doctors are have you by her side. While other states with At right is 10-year-old January Karbowski, who sang the National Anthem. now permitted to select a similar laws have opted Gene L. Osofsky is an medical “surrogate” (agent) to to designate a preferential elder law and estate planning make health care decisions for hierarchy, the new California attorney who has been helping your friend. law purposely does not! This East Bay families for over 30 years with Trusts, Powers of The new law, known as AB decision was intentional and Attorney, Probate, Medi-Cal 2338 and now codified in CA was apparently the subject of continued from page 2 Probate Code § 4712 provides much debate, and was made in Planning, and related matters. (retired), read “The Watch,” Please visit his website at: that where, as in your friend’s recognition that families and a poem that clearly states the www.LawyerForSeniors.com, case, she has not designated a relationships are not all the role of our military. VFW or call (510) 247-2555. Health Care Agent/Surrogate same. Post Chaplain Bruce Bennett in a written Advance Health prayed the opening Invocation Care Directive, and is not caand closing Benediction. All pable of designating someone branches of the military were orally, that her health care honored by the playing of their providers may now choose a anthems with those who served For people who are process- unique considerations of griev“surrogate” for her. in that branch asked to stand ing the loss of a loved one, the ing during the winter holiday and be honored. The choice would be from a winter holiday season can be season. We also will talk about list of adult persons, whom her painful. Experiencing grief at how to prepare for gatherings The Castro Valley Veterans health care providers deterMemorial Park is open yearthis time may intensify feelings that you choose to attend, as mine.. round to the public. Special of loneliness or anxiety about well as spending time alone remembrance events are held “..has demonstrated special being asked how you are to honor the memory of your every Memorial Day and Veterloved one privately. care and concern for the coping. ans Day at 11am. The public is patient, is familiar with the Hope Hospice offers this Although this workshop is invited. Veterans are encourfree one-hour workshop tomor- offered over Zoom, space is Commander Bernard Remoaldo (AL Post 649) reads patient’s personal values and aged to wear their uniforms or a statement of recognition of those prisoners of war beliefs to the extent known, row, Thursday, November 16, still limited due to the interacother clothing that distinguishes and missing in action as part of the Veterans Day re- and is reasonably available and from 11:30am to 12:30pm, tive nature of the presentation. membrance at the Castro Valley Veterans Memorial. willing to serve.” them as military veterans. as a safe space to discuss the There is no charge to attend.
Veterans: Military Branches Honored
Grief Workshop Tomorrow
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Have a peace of mind knowing that helping hands are never far away. Take a tour of our senior living community today.
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19960 Santa Maria Ave Castro Valley, CA 94546
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6127 Castro Valley Blvd Castro Valley CA License # 015601507
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CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
11
Polina Vitz
December 12, 1938 ~ October 26, 2023
Since 1965
Jess C. Spencer Mortuary & Crematory
21228 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
581-9133
Offering Personalized Memorial and Cremation Services.
FD 1168 CR49
With her family around her, on October 26 Polina Arensburger Vitz left us after a brief struggle with gall bladder cancer. Born on a collective farm in Soviet Russia on December 12, 1938, Polina was orphaned in World War II. In 1943, she made her way as a refugee to Tallinn, Estonia, where she was adopted by Konstantin and Marina Arensburger. They were a Russian couple who fled to Estonia after the Russian Revolution, and who wanted a younger sister for their son Dimitri. In September 1944, the young family fled again as the Soviets invaded Tallinn. They ended up in Sulz, a small town in Germany. Fortunately, when the war ended, their town was placed in the French zone of Germany and they were permitted to stay instead of being forcibly repatriated to the Soviet Union. Despite the scarcity of food and goods after the war, Polina and her brother had an almost normal childhood for several years in Sulz. In 1950, the family immigrated to San Francisco as DPs (displaced persons). By age 12, Polina had her second family, third language, and fourth country. Marina Arensburger soon began work as a Russian language teacher at the Army Language School (later the Defense Language Institute) in Monterey. The family joined the already large Russian community associated with the school. Polina attended Russian school and joined the Russian scout program. She graduated from Monterey High School, Monterey Peninsula College, and San Francisco State University in 1960 with a BA in elementary education. She also earned a master’s degree in Russian Studies from Middlebury College. Her first teaching positions were in the Monterey school district’s schools on Fort Ord. In 1962, she met her future husband, Martin, who was in the Russian-language training program at the ALS. Sensing that his future was with Polina in California, not his native Ohio, Martin landed a city planning job in Alameda. In June 1963, they married at the small Russian Orthodox church in Seaside. This past summer they celebrated 60 years together. Martin soon began working in Richmond, where he and Polina started their family. Polina left teaching in Berkeley to raise their three children. When Martin was offered a city planner position in San Leandro in 1969, they bought the Tudor-style house that Polina adored. She was a loving mother and supported her children as they went through the San Leandro public schools. At the same time, she passed on her culture and language by leading not only her own children but others of Russian heritage through Russian school and Russian scouts in Palo Alto on Saturdays. Polina loved to share her Russian background, including much-coveted invitations to spectacular Russian dinners for 20 or more friends and family. As her children grew, Polina frequently worked as a substitute teacher, known affectionately as Mrs. V. She returned to full-time teaching and spent 17 years teaching third grade at St. Felicitas parish school in San Leandro. After retiring, she had more time for her interests, including knitting, crocheting, sewing, and gardening. She freely gave her creations to many, even sewing hundreds of face masks for seniors in the early days of the Covid pandemic. She also visited over 50 countries with her family, mother, and husband, including Machu Picchu, the Matterhorn, Australia, East Africa and Russia. Polina will be remembered as the supportive core of her family by her husband Martin, her children Alexander, Gregory (Mick’l), and Katherine (Georg), and her grandchildren, Nikolai, Kasey, and Mason, and Michael and Elizabeth. She was predeceased by her parents and her brother Dimitri. In her native Russian, Vechnaya Pamyat’ - Eternal Memory. Funeral services were held November 6 at St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church, Berkeley, and interment followed at Lone Tree Cemetery, Hayward. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to either the San Leandro Education Foundation (SLED) or the San Leandro Scholarship Foundation, in honor of her long commitment to education.
Melanie Rose Blaha November 22, 1942 ~ November 8, 2023
Melanie complied and as a result, Born November 22, 1942 of Frank Vincent Melewicz Melanie: and Naomi Marion (Pink) a. Won a bicycle in an essay conMelewicz, Melanie would tell test and created the first school her life stories giving much news magazine in the 5th grade “The Redwood Bark” credit to her parents: b. As a HS senior, purchased 1. Melanie never had a home and completed modelling school because she moved every two to learn finer points of grace and years with her younger brother etiquette. c. Learned proficiency in five Frank, her mom and dad who was a Navy Commander mete- languages, compared to eight her b. National Education Magazine orologist starting in World War father mastered. d. Performed as a thespian in in Washington, DC, (one of MelII. Melanie adapted to each anie’s articles was read to the U.S new residence, including far- multiple plays. away places like Newfound- e. Went way beyond in attaining Congress and is archived in the land, Canada and the Island her Master’s Degree in English Congressional Record. of Guam, but did not like the where her professor stated that c. U.S. Department of Interior, racial segregation she experi- her thesis, as an original work was working on the Clean Water Act in San Francisco, CA (which became equivalent to a PhD thesis. enced in Virginia in 1956. the Environmental Protection 4. Melanie’s Mother, showed Agency “EPA”). 2. Melanie’s Father who was strongly family oriented, Melanie how to be a hard-work6. Melanie loved working at taught Melanie the value of ing and devoted wife and mother, family and provided family ad- which Melanie adopted and ap- EPA as one of the first professional ventures, gatherings, and annu- plied to her own husband Jerome women with various positions of al reunions, which Melanie has and their children Jerome, Jr. and writer/editor, public relations officer, manager of 28 employees, Jennifer. carried out her entire life. creating a new fun reading NEWS Melanie’s Father taught Mela5. Melanie’s professors, mostly publication “Staff Flash” and her nie at age 11 how to tie flies, how to fly fish and how to PhD Sisters of the Holy Names, favorite job as EPA liaison and hosting many International digniplay golf with men’s clubs taught Melanie how to be a on Navy golf courses before spiritually devout loving woman, taries and delegations coming to it was acceptable for women unafraid to also be a professional EPA to learn environmental techto play golf. Melanie’s Father woman in 1964 when profession- nology to assimilate and use in and Mother taught Melanie to al women were relegated to be a their home countries. be a devout Catholic, never lie, teacher, nurse or airline steward7. Melanie’s favorite story is cheat, gossip or hurt anyone ess. As a result, Melanie broke and to be gracious and help ranks to be a professional woman how she was spiritually compelled anyone in need, which Melanie in a men’s controlled world and by to come back to California in 1970 has carried out her entire life. the grace of God became a profes- and how she flew out with faith sional researcher, writer and editor that she could get a job as a writer/ editor in San Francisco. She hand 3. Melanie’s Father told for: Melanie that her only job was a. The Folger Shakespeare Li- carried her resume to multiple government agencies over Thanksgivher studies in school, to which brary in Washington, DC.
ing week and on Friday was hired Melanie, Jerome thought “that’s as a professional writer/editor to the girl I am still in love with and transform scientists’ research and want to marry”. On the second reports into common language for date at a stop light, Melanie saw the public to understand what EPA light reflecting off Jerome’s face was doing to clean the water of riv- and thought “that’s the man I’m going to marry”. Then to Jerome’s ers, lakes, and oceans. proposal of marriage, 52 days 8. Melanie loved to tell her sto- later Melanie said “Yes, Jerome ry of how she met her Husband, Blaha, I will marry you.” Melanie Jerome, in the 4th grade in Castro and Jerome each had the loves of Valley, CA, how she moved to their lives and Melanie had a whirl Newfoundland after 6th grade at wind of adventures with Jerome age 11 and re-met Jerome at age for the next 52 years. 27 when she had just started her job at EPA; how her girlfriend, 9. Melanie loved children. Shirley, from the 6th grade told her From the birth of Jerome Jr. (JJ), about Jerome was still unmarried Melanie constantly loved him and and attending law school in San secondly from the birth of Jennifer Francisco, where classes are over constantly loved her as the most 90% men, and asked Melanie to precious gifts that God could have go on a date with Jerome so that given Melanie. Melanie gave all Melanie and Shirley could go to of her love to educate them and the law school parties to meet the expose them to adventures such men. The other side of that story as regularly learning about all the is that the first time Jerome saw animals and having fun at Marine Melanie in the 4th grade, he fell World Africa, USA, athletics such in love with her. She was the most as soccer, swimming, tennis, and beautiful girl he had ever seen and to God through attending church she was the smartest, best writer, and bible school. Melanie taught best artist in the class. But Jerome, JJ and Jennifer to be curious about at age 8, could not tell Melanie that everything, be not afraid to ask he loved her and had to love, pure questions and be studious; they and chaste from afar. That, Jerome too became proficient in several was heart broken when Melanie languages. moved to Newfoundland. Then at age 27, when Shirley mentioned Melanie is survived by her husto Jerome that Melanie Melewicz band, Jerome, son, Jerome Blaha, was in San Francisco and was not Jr. (and wife, Pim), daughter, Jenmarried, Jerome was on a mission nifer Cheek (and husband, Morto woo his first love Melanie to be gan), grandchildren Austin and his wife. Jerome called Melanie Olivia Cheek, brother, F. Michael and asked: Do you remember me Melewicz (and Valery), sister-infrom Redwood School, “yes, sort law, Judith Blaha, and 20 nephews of “; Are your married? “No”, and nieces. would you like to go on a date? No, I am a little busy” and final- 10. Melanie’s humility kept her ly Melanie agreed to go on a date from ever talking about herself and the next evening. On first sight of her dedication to helping others.
Melanie loved to see reasons to compliment almost anyone for their achievements. She would take the time to listen to needs of others and compassionately encourage them to work hard to accomplish their goals, including many children, persons considering college or employment, disabled persons or anyone in need. Melanie also accepted heavy duty tasks to help others or the community in putting on fund raising events for Church, Schools, Charities and Rotary. Melanie also served when called upon as a singer in St. Mary’s Choir, President of OLG School Board and Public Relations Administrator and member of the Oakland Museum Women’s Board (for over 30 years). 11. Most of all Melanie lived a virtuous life of loving every person she met. She was able to avoid gossip and ever wanting or wishing harm or hurt to any person. Even if that person hurt Melanie in some way, Melanie would immediately forgive that person. Her husband, Jerome, says that he has never observed any woman on earth more loving and forgiving than Melanie. The love of Melanie will be missed but not forgotten as an example for each of us to follow. 12. Melanie’s life will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023 at Redwood Chapel, 19300 Redwood Road, Castro Valley, followed by a meal together.
12 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
ATHLETES OF THE WEEK
Gravediggers Recreational Soccer team members are: Issiah Chattoo, Nathan Gonzalez, Jacob Graves, Maxwell Hodsdon, David James, Reese Lopes, Julian Martinelli, Maxim Moenne-Loccoz, Silas Naidu, David Ramirez, Cameron Sullivan, Kingston Jackson, Head Coach Jason Graves, Assistant Coach Dan Hodsdon, Assistant Coach JD James.
Gravediggers Soccer Team Our Athletes of the Week are the U10 Gravediggers Recreational Soccer team. The team finished their season with a tournament in Pleasanton on October 28-29, hosted by BUSC (Ballistic United Soccer Club). The team won all three games. For October, the team purchased pink uniforms to honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
A breast cancer survivor mom has been on the team for the last two years. The team got its name from Coach Jason Graves, whose call sign in the U.S. Marines was “Gravedigger.” “Our parents deserve kudos too, as their kids’ success is a reflection of them.,” says Coach Graves.
The Matt Wilhite Team proud to Isisproud to sponsor sponsor Athletes of the Week Athlete of the Team Week Gravediggers
TROJAN GIRLS RACE TO VICTORY
Congratulations to the Castro Valley High School Girls Varsity Cross Country Team, which won the prestigious Mt. San Antonio College (Mt. SAC) Invitational on October 21. All seven Trojans finished the hilly, 2.93-mile course in the top third of the field. Leading the team and winning the individual crown was Freshman Iliana Nierengarten in 19 minutes and 38 seconds. Senior Alyssa Chen followed in 20:24 minutes, good for fifth place. Also winning medals were Junior Hannah Murry, Junior Maya Dughi, and Sophomore Mika Gomes. Juniors Anna Dughi and Abigail Choi also completed a fine team effort. The Trojans scored 51 points, 18 points better than second-place Warren High School, winning their first-ever team championship at Mt. SAC. Full results are available on the Athletic.net website (https:// www.athletic.net/CrossCountry/meet/224388/results/936616).
Fitness: The Usual Problems continued from page 5 What is your core doing? This is closely related to your shoulders. People often move in positions that shut their core off and force their neck and low back to do the core’s job. To see what I mean, try standing in a relaxed position. Now shrug your shoulders. Your hips just moved forward, didn’t they? Hips jutting forward = shut off core. What to do about it: Learn to set your core correctly. To do that, push your fingers lightly into the sides of your belly. Using your abs, push your fingers out. Notice how solid your core feels when you do that? That’s how to do it. You DO NOT want to suck your belly in. Add some deep belly breaths to this and you’re on your way. What are the usual problems? Going back to your usual patterns by using your low back and shoulders instead. This can be a hard concept to get, but it’s incredibly important. Let me know what questions you have. 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.
Here’s a beautiful trout caught by Kristopher Parker fly fishing on Pyramid Lake. Not all trophy fish photos are as easy as they appear. In this case, Kris’ good friend Nate is tail-slapped before gaining control, taking a photo, and releasing the fish safely back into the lake. Have a ‘Great Catch’? Email photo and information to: filesforforum@gmail.com #CATCHTHEREALESTATEBUG Paulette Johnson Realtor paulettejohnson@kw.com | 510-329-3297
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MAC: Cell Tower, Business Facelift received the lengthy 443-page to make public transportation continued from front page “This is both a low-hanging CCAP draft and 176-page SE safe,” said Moore. He added fruit and a popular fruit,” said draft four days earlier and had that he believes that physical safety is an overall priority for Stanek-Rykoff. “It’s a win-win- little time to study them. it would make so many people The MAC also said that al- most people, even over more in Castro Valley much happier though the state mandates such conceptual environmental and go a long way to achieving a plan, there are no federal or concerns. these goals. state penalties for non-compliAlso, at Monday night’s The Safety Element address- ance, so there is no real sense meeting, the MAC approved es hazards to minimize deaths, of accountability. the continual use and operation property damage, and injury of an existing cell phone tower MAC member Chuck from earthquakes, fires, floods, Moore asked what other coun- at 3541 Quail Avenue. The and other disasters. ties and states are doing and if tower, housed in a faux Italian Cypress tree, is authorized to The final CCAP and SE are the figures in the report have continue operation for three been independently verified. scheduled for final approval He also asked county staff how years provided no further from the Alameda Counmuch the actual report cost to issues or complaints exist. ty Board of Supervisors in March of next year. A copy of create ($213,000). Previously, some of the the documents is available at “If I have to go buy an fake branches and greenery www.acgov.org/cda/planning/ electric car, I want to be sure had fallen, but the issues have ccapsepublic-draft.htm. The since been resolved. The area people in Oregon are too bepublic comment period is open cause where there is a wildfire where the tree-tower is located through Wednesday, December in Oregon, we get the smoke,” is owned by the Hayward Area 6. Recreation and Park District. said Moore. Members of the MAC Moore also said that the reAn agenda item to review expressed frustration with what alities of public transportation exterior modifications to the Member Ken Carbone called clash with the idea of a thriving Jack in the Box restaurant at system. the “layers of government” 3035 Castro Valley Boulevard inherent in such documents. “If you’re asking us to take was continued to a future The MAC added that they only public transportation, you have meeting.