HOLIDAYS AROUND THE TOWN
Christmas Tree Lighting
THIS FRIDAY !""#$%&"#'
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM A COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SERVING CASTRO VALLEY SINCE 1989
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2023
YEAR 35
EJE, CVCBDSP
INSIDE YOUR
MAC Talks Plans
FORUM
Center Makeover Sulphur Creek Nature Center to break ground on ‘reimagined’ look
Page 2
X-Mas is Saved ‘The Man Who Saved Christmas’ opens this Friday at Chanticleers
Page 5
Big Book Sale Friends of CV Library to hold Fall book sale this Friday through Sunday
Page 12
INDEX Calendar ................ 4 Classified Ads ......... 8 Crosswords ............. 9 Homes ..................... 6 Obituaries ............. 11 Opinions ............... 11 Our Town ................. 3 Sheriff’s Report ...... 3 Sports .................. 12 Weather .................. 2 WWW.MYCVFORUM.COM
NO. 48
By Amy Sylvestri CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
What does environmental justice look like in the unincorporated area? The Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) PHOTO BY: HAYWARD AREA RECREATION & PARK DISTRICT heard a lengthy update on the Environmental Justice Element Friday’s event will include a ukulele performance, a local poetry reading, a hula dance, a guitar jam and band dance, guided tours, and a ceremonious ribbon cutting. The building was constructed in 1989. (EJE) of the county’s General Plan at their Monday night meeting but may have been left with more questions than answers. The EJE is part of the County’s General Plan that focuses December 1, at 10:00 a.m. ented programs, preschool 34-year-old building at 17800 on the Ashland, Cherryland, By Michael Singer with a ribbon cutting, music, activities, arts, and community Redwood Road needed several Hayward Acres, and parts of CASTRO VALLEY FORUM and performances by local programs, the building has upgrades. Castro Valley and San Lorenzo especially. After a yearlong hiatus, the artists. The public is welcome been closed since October Friday’s grand re-opening 2022 after Hayward Area Kenneth C. Aitken Senior and to attend. will also spotlight various local The Alameda County ComRecreation & Park District Community Center is schedartists, including a Ukulele Constructed in 1989, the munity Development Agency (H.A.R.D.) determined that the uled to reopen this Friday, see SENIOR on page 10 cherished hub for senior-orisee MAC on page 11
Aitken Senior Center Reopening
Theater Production Tackles Teen Mental Health learn about the individual mental health challenges they CASTRO VALLEY FORUM are facing and what options Healing teens’ mental health they have for seeking help. challenges after the pandemic They discover that although their identities and challenges was the focus of “Ghosted,” are unique, they are not alone presented by Kaiser Permain their struggles. nente’s Educational Theatre at Brenkwitz High School in “I thought the play was great Hayward on November 15. because some of our students The show marked a return here suffer with those mental health challenges,” said Brenkto in-person performance witz Principal Yvette Beavers. by Kaiser’s theater program after a 3-year hiatus due to the “It’s a great creative way to COVID-19 pandemic, though present help for the students and presenting the 988 number virtual performances had and know they are not alone.” continued. “Ghosted” tells the story That toll-free 988 telephone of four students navigating life number is a new nationwide in high school while learning suicide-prevention and mental health helpline, answered 24 to cope with stress, anxiety, hours a day and seven days a depression, and relationship week. issues. Together, the students By Mike McGuire
Kaiser hopes students watching the show will learn to avoid stigma by normalizing mental health challenges; develop skills to talk about stress, anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts; prevention; identify coping strategies to build resilience; and access resources to get the help they may need. The need for mental health awareness and care for teens has exploded in the last 20 years, especially since COVID-19 exacerbated feelings of anxiety and depression, Kaiser said in a release. Even before the pandemic arrived, teen suicides were on PHOTO COURTESY OF ANTONIA EHLERS the rise. From 2000 to 2020, the numbers grew by 233 per- A scene from “Ghosted,” performed by Kaiser’s cent for girls ages 10 to 14, Educational Theatre at Brenkwitz High School in see MENTAL on page 3 Hayward on November 15.
2 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
Castro Valley Weather November 29 - December 3, 2023
Sulphur Creek Nature Center ‘Redesigned and Reimagined’
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
By Michael Singer
AM Showers High 65° Low 47°
PM Shower High 63° Low 45°
Partly Cloudy High 62° Low 45°
Partly Cloudy High 64° Low 46°
Partly Cloudy High 65° Low 46°
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Almanac
Moon Phases Dec 5
Past Week’s Rain: 00.00 Season To Date: 01.26 Normal To Date: 00.00 Season Average: 00.00
Dec 12
Dec 19
Dec 26
Sun sets at 4:50 p.m. today, rises at 7:02 a.m. Thursday.
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Sulphur Creek Nature Center is about to break ground on a “redesign and reimagining” thanks to a $100,000 grant from Fremont Bank Foundation, officials said last week. The beloved wildlife education and rehabilitation facility and popular field trip destination features local wildlife on display, a discovery center, educational programs, a wildlife hospital, and activities designed to connect people and nature. At one point, the Center on D Street in Hayward treated up to 900 wild animals a year and installed a webcam for observing a barn owl family. The redesign will include a new outdoor classroom with a paved pavilion that will provide PHOTO COURTESY OF H.A.R.D. shade and shelter for interactive learning opportunities, camps, Nestled amongst the oaks on D Street in Hayward, field trips, and community Sulphur Creek Nature Center has provided wildlife education since the 1960s. events. Visitors will also see a new open-air amphitheater with rustic log seating for “The Nature Center Hatcher said the Fremont lectures and performances. enhancements will make the Bank Foundation grant will be Workers will also install new facility more welcoming, combined with money from directional signage and provide accessible, and popular among the California Department of more comprehensive education- community members, partic- Parks and Recreation’s Outal materials about the center’s ularly students from diverse door Environmental Education animal residents and native neighborhoods who will ben- Facilities (OEEF) grant to get flora and fauna. efit from unique educational the project up and running. opportunities.” Hayward Area Groundbreaking for the Grant funds will also supRecreation and Park District $500,000 project will take port general construction costs, place on Thursday, December (H.A.R.D.) Board of Directors including grading and President Rick Hatcher. 7, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. see SULPHUR on page 10
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Wednesday, November 29, 2023
HISTORIC STANTON HOUSE FOR SALE
3
Sheriff’s Reports COMPILED BY MICHAEL SINGER • CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
You can now own a piece of Castro Valley history. Stanton House, which welcomes drivers entering town near Interstate 580 by McDonald’s, is currently on the market for a mere $1,190,000, down from its original asking price of $1,325,00. The two-story, wood frame 2,560 square foot home sits on a 9,757 square foot lot with 12 parking spaces. It currently functions as an eight-suite professional office building. Avison Young Realtors out of Foster City is the listing agency. Stanton House was built in 1860 on Lake Chabot Road and was moved to its location at 1700 Norbridge Avenue in 1978 by two lawyers. The current owner purchased the property in 2003 and has since fully restored the building over the past 20 years. Listing agent Lloyd Bakan says he’s already gotten a few interested parties calling about the home. Stanton House does not have historical landmark status, making it easier to purchase, he added.
Mental: Kaiser Educational Theatre continued from front page and 58 percent for boys of the same age, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Despite the rapid rise for girls, boys remain at greater risk, however, the CDC says. The pandemic then added stress and anxiety, and 42 percent of high school students in the US now report feeling persistently sad or hopeless while 29 percent have recently
experienced poor mental health, the CDC found. Brenkwitz High senior Anakalia, who did not give her last name, said “A lot of people have stuff they don’t really share or talk about that’s really affecting them. I just think it’s really important to bring awareness to it and for people to know that they can get help.” Kaiser Permanente Educational Theatre dates back to
1986 and is part of Kaiser’s Thriving Schools program. “Ghosted” is one of three plays they present free of charge to schools, along with “The Password” for elementary students and “RISE UP” for school staff. For more information, schools can contact Kaiser Permanente Educational Theatre at https://thrivingschools. kaiserpermanente.org/educational-theatre/
rested a 43-year-old man from Too Much to Drink Death Threats Castro Valley on suspicion of Sunday, November 26: at 9:29 Thursday, November 23: at spousal assault. Deputies took p.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested 2:53 a.m., a 35-year-old CV the man into custody. The vica 22-year-old man from Castro woman was arrested on sustim was treated at the scene. Valley on suspicion of making picion of public intoxication. death threats. The man was at Deputies stopped the woman Drove Intoxicated a home on Greenwood Circle for questioning outside a business on Lake Chabot Road Thursday, November 23: at near Villareal Drive when deputies stopped him for ques- near Eden Medical Center. The 2:48 a.m., deputies pulled over woman failed her field sobriety and arrested a 43-year-old tioning. The man was taken test and was taken into custody. man from Castro Valley on into custody. suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. The man Spousal Assault Three Arrested on was traveling on John Drive Thursday, November 23: at Drug-Related Charges near Castro Valley Boulevard 1:36 a.m., a 911 call about a Friday, November 24: at 6:29 loud and aggressive-sounding when deputies stopped him for p.m., three people with no weaving in traffic. The man permanent residence were ar- argument sent deputies to a failed his field sobriety test and rested on drug-related charges. home on Forest Avenue near Deputies found the trio parked Vincent Court. There, they ar- was taken into custody. outside a grocery store on Castro Valley Boulevard near Redwood Road. A 45-year-old woman was found with methGive back this season, amphetamine drugs, a 50-yearone meal at a time old woman had illegal drug The holidays can be especially paraphernalia in her pocket, lonesome for homebound seniors and a 32-year-old man was in Castro Valley and San Leandro. found with an illegal amount of marijuana in his possession Bring a senior a meal, a smile, and for sale. The man was also joy this holiday season. found to have an outstanding Get involved today: sosmow.org warrant related to a previous car theft conviction and being 510-244-0165 John@sosmow.org in contempt of court. Deputies took all three into custody. Shoplifter Caught Wednesday, November 22: at 9:20 a.m., deputies arrested a 37-year-old woman on suspicion of shoplifting from a grocery store on Redwood Road near Castro Valley Boulevard. The woman was detained by security after leaving the store with unpaid merchandise. Deputies took the woman into custody.
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Wednesday, November 29, 2023
COMMUNITY CALENDAR Tomorrow • Thursday, November 30 Avoid Scams: Holiday Edition Join the Alameda County Deputy District Attorney for a fun presentation that includes a “Scam Jam Trivia Challenge – Holiday Edition” with (small) prizes. Want to know more about scams and suggestions for avoiding them? Then join us for an interactive, entertaining, and informative session. No advance registration required for this free event taking place tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 30 from 11am 12:30pm at the Castro Valley Library.
A Joyful Holiday Concert Next Week The Douglas Morrisson Chorus will be presenting a joyful holiday concert on Friday December 8th at 8pm and Sunday, December 10, at 2pm at the Douglas Morrisson Theater, 22311 Third St. Hayward. Spirits will be lifted by both sacred and secular music, performances by talented soloists and a chance to hum or sing along with some familiar songs, directed by Cesar Cancino. His usual comments and interaction with the audience promise to add to the fun of this festive concert. Purchase tickets online DW GRXJODVPRUULVVRQ WKXQGHUWL[ FRP RU YLVLW WKH +$5' 'LVWULFW 2IÀFH DW ( 6W +D\ZDUG &DOO at douglasmorrisson.thundertix.com or visit the HARD District Office at 1099 E St., Hayward. Call 510 IRU DVVLVWDQFH LI QHHGHG 7LFNHWV ZLOO QRW EH DYDLODEOH DW WKH GRRU 881-6700 for assistance if needed. Tickets will not be available at the door.
From our family to your family. Wishing everyone a warm, wonderful, safe Christmas and New Year with family and friends. Greg and Aida,
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HEYER CENTER
Friday, December 1 Grand Re-Opening of Senior Center The highly anticipated grand reopening of the Kenneth C. Aitken Senior and Community Center is scheduled for this Friday, Dec. 1, at 10am. This momentous event promises a captivating lineup including a Ukulele Performance, Local Poetry Reading, Hula Dance, Guitar Jam Demo, Band Dance, guided tours, and a ceremonious ribbon cutting. The center is located at: 17800 Redwood Road. Saturday, December 2 Holiday Tea and Boutique Holiday Tea and Boutique is happening at Castro Valley United Methodist Church this Saturday, Dec. 2 from 10am to 5pm. Tea service is from 11am to 3pm. Tea tickets are $30. Reservations are optional but available by contacting karen.loughrige@yahoo.com. Proceeds from this event will go toward numerous community projects. 7XHVGD\ 'HFHPEHU Tuesday, December 5 Cyber Crime Trends and Prevention Guidance Learn about Cyber Crime Trends 2023 and Prevention Guidance. The FBI will conduct this workshop that provides an overview of the top cybercrimes facing our communities and offer practical tips to safeguard your household and businesses. The workshop takes place on Tuesday, Dec. 5 from 1 to 2:30pm at the Cherryland Community Center (278 Hampton Road, Hayward). This event is co-sponsored by the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, League of Women Voters of the Eden Area and SF Cause.
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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.
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CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
5
HOLIDAYS AR UND the TOWN Opening This Friday: ‘The Man Who Saved Christmas’
T
he holidays will be a little brighter this year when Chanticleers Theatre (Castro Valley’s little theatre in the park) and East Bay Children’s Theatre (the Bay Area’s longest continuously operating theatre company) team up to present the award-winning musical The Man Who Saved Christmas! This very merry hit, which enjoyed its world premiere right here in the Bay Area, returns for the first time in more than a decade after enjoying success throughout the United States, Canada, and England. There is even a successful cast
album! This production will be reporter determined to thaw directed by the show’s creator, it out; the nefarious Iago of Ron Lytle (Christmas in OZ, the toy factory, Mister Dixon; Oh My Godmother!, etc.) Gilbert’s loving wife Mary; and the Gilberts’ precocious The Man Who Saved Christmas is loosely based on niece Ellen, who untangles the myriad complications in which the true story of toy maker the young lovers--and the Toy A.C. Gilbert (the inventor of Tycoon– find themselves. The Erector Set.) Set in 1917, as America is embroiled in the Suitable for the entire famfirst World War, this old-fash- ily, this is the perfect antidote ioned crowd-pleaser focuses for those saying “Bah humon Gilbert’s battle with the bug!” to one more production U.S. government as it attempts of “A Christmas Carol” or for PHOTOS BY EBCT to ban toy sales during the holi- those driven nuts by yet anothday season. er “Nutcracker”! The scheming Mr. Dixon (Michael Vetrovec) is tormented by the children (CaAdded to the mix: A The talented cast hails from dence Santyipsum, Mathilda Babcock, Vivian Crocker, Serena Sweat, Connor Taylor, Angel Veliz Vasquez and Kayly Veliz Vasquez) in the musical The Man secretary who keeps her all across the Bay Area and heart on ice and a visiting see CHRISTMAS on page 10 Who Saved Christmas. Opening Friday, December 1 at Chanticleers Theatre.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1ST 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
TREE LIGHTING AT 6:00 PM LIVE MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA
Homes
6 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
REAL ESTATE GALLERY REAL ESTATE REALITY
By Carl Medford, CRS
GUEST COMMENTARY
The Proper Care for a Live Christmas Tree
Decorating a living Christmas tree not only perks up the season but provides a tree for your yard if you have the space. That planted tree not only can add esthetic value to your landscape, it can also keep soil from eroding and buffer a house from Prep List: furnace ducting will also winter winds and summer sun. By Carl Medford, CRS Special to the Forum Check your furnace save energy. But you’ll need to do more than BEFORE it gets cold. Replace drafty windows. shake the tinsel off the branches Fire it up to make sure When cold weather comes, and stick it in the soil. atching football old windows reward you For the best choice of tree, games from across everything is working. Remember that furnaces with drafts and heat loss. you might want to check the the country this sitting idle have accumuEliminate drafts and lower Sunset Western Garden Book past week was a reality for details on how fast—and check: in addition to classic lated dust that is burned off heating costs by replacing during the first run, resultyour old windows with how big—a tree gets. Some that pigskin rivalries, some new thermally efficient are suited to Bay Area climates, matches included inclement ing in that classic “ionization” smell. Considering dual-pane products. Check include Monterey pine, Sequoia weather and even snow. installing a new thermostat for available discounts for redwood, the slow-growing We are so fortunate in the such as a NEST? Do it now. installing new windows Italian stone pine and the deodar cedar. Bay Area with our temAn HVAC technician can out of the peak season. Use Gradually introduce your perate climate. Even then, check your furnace and window shades to keep in living tree from outside to init is important to take care install a new thermostat heat, especially at night. side over three or four days by as the weather can have to make sure everything Check your roof and gutputting it in the garage or an dire consequences for the works as it should. Change ters. enclosed porch. unprepared. A roof inspection is relAt a nursery or garden supply Here is our Top Six Fall your furnace filter. Sealing atively inexpensive, yet can store, purchase a spray with an prevent hundreds of dollars antidessicant or antiwilt product in potential damage. It’s al- to minimize needle loss and and ways best to catch potential reduce loss of moisture once issues BEFORE they cause inside the home. harm. For an extra fee, Locate the tree in the coolest some roof inspection com- part of the room, away from https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:A1_Christmas_Tree_photo.jpg#/media/ panies will also clean your heating ducts. File:A1_Christmas_Tree_photo.jpg gutters. If you need new The tree should not remain in gutters, beat the rush and the house for longer than seven Ron Trentler Matt Jones & Bob Jones Dilek Silva do it now. Make sure your to 10 days. Water the tree as DRE# 02139355 DRE# 02068317 DRE#0137894 DRE# 00276097 RECENT HOME SALES downspouts have diverters often as necessary to moisten which carry water away the roots. Slowly trickle about !"#$%"#&"%"#'(%#)(*+ from your home and ensure two quarts of cold water around Home sales information is compiled and provided by CalREsource 142 JOAQUINAVE. • SAN LEANDRO • 510 -357-0120 nothing on the ground traps the trunk every three to four and includes Bedrooms, Square Feet and Year Built when available RobertJonesandAssociates.com water or directs it towards days for trees 4 feet or taller. your dwelling. But don’t let the soil become Castro Valley ————————— Trim vegetation away soggy and never add nutrients 9969 Lorena Circle 94546: $932,500 [3 BD - 1,660 SF - 1995 YRBLT from the house. or fertilizers as that could initiate 5315 Wilow Glen Place 94546: $2,050,000 [4 BD - 2,880 SF - 1993 YRBLT INTERO REAL ESTATE SPOTLIGHT If you have tree branches, growth which shouldn’t occur in TOTAL SALES: 2 Castro Valley Small Business Of The Month bushes or shrubs touching a dormant tree. LOWEST AMOUNT: $932,500 MEDIAN AMOUNT: $1,491,250 your home, trim them back Decorate the tree with mini- HIGHEST AMOUNT: $2,050,000 AVERAGE AMOUN $1,491,250 before the storms come. lights and small ornaments, but Tree branches can do don’t use any flocking or other Hayward ————————------20875 Agnes Lane 94541: $550,000 [2 BD - 702 SF - 1947 YRBLT extensive damage, especial- decorative spray. ly to roofs, and vegetation When it’s time to remove the 2038 Duval Lane 94545: $750,000 [3 BD - 1,119 SF - 1956 YRBLT close to the walls will trap decorations and plant the tree 526 Jilliene Way 94544: $900,000 [3 BD - 1,184 SF - 1955 YRBLT moisture. outdoors, choose a spot away 24709 Brentwood Court 94545: $920,000 [3 BD - 1,587 SF - 1954 YRBLT Check weather seals. from buildings and other trees. 27401 Palmwood Avenue 94545: $925,000 [3 BD - 1,421 SF - 1956 YRBLT IMPORTED FOOD Make sure your doors (Pines grow to 50 feet and red5,000 Selected Items TOTAL SALES: 5 have adequate weather seals woods two or three times that LOWEST AMOUNT: $550,000 MEDIAN AMOUNT: $900,000 European, Middle Eastern, Italian, and door sweeps to close height.) HIGHEST AMOUNT: $925,000 AVERAGE AMOUN $809,000 off all gaps. Caulk all gaps Dig the hole three times German, Greek, & Persian around windows. Close the the width of the root ball, but (510) 582-2231 fireplace damper. less than a foot deep. The hole San Leandro ————————------eep flashlights handy. should not be deeper than the 3300 E. Castro Valley Blvd., Ste. B, Castro Valley 14942 Portofino Circle 94578: $410,000 [3 BD - 1,582 SF - 1982 You never know when rootball. YRBLT weather might knock out Make four shallow cuts on the local power – keep charged rootball with a sharp knife, place 1 flashlights handy in case. the tree in the hole and spread out TOTAL SALES: LOWEST AMOUNT: $410,000 MEDIAN AMOUNT: $410,000 Beat the season and the cut roots. HIGHEST AMOUNT: $410,000 AVERAGE AMOUN $410,000 while others are panicking, As you fill in the soil, keep you will be snug and warm the crown (where roots and stem in your fully prepared meet) one to two inches above San Lorenzo ————————------FULL SERVICE REALTOR home. the soil line. Add soil until the 426 Crespi Place 94580: $710,000 [3 BD - 1,370 SF - 2004 YRBLT hole is two-third full, tamping the 1406 Via Buena Vista 94580: $847,000 [3 BD - 1,325 SF - 1951 YRBLT DAVID S. WILHITE 732 Via Pacheco 94580: $860,000 [3 BD - 1,032 SF - 1944 YRBLT Carl Medford is a licensed soil gently. SERVING CASTRO VALLEY AND Realtor with Keller Williams Water around the roots, then SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES 3 Advisors and a licensed fill the hole completely and tamp TOTAL SALES: FOR 40+ YEARS general contractor. This article the soil again. Be sure the crown LOWEST AMOUNT: $710,000 MEDIAN AMOUNT: $847,000 510.886.1100 is sponsored by the Central remains above the soil line or the HIGHEST AMOUNT: $860,000 AVERAGE AMOUN $805,666 DRE#00759835 County Marketing Association. tree will die. Special to the Forum
Be Prepared for Winter
W
Robert Jones
Associates
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CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
7
A Naturally Clean Home
ing solution, it can clean ing in a few ice cubes and clear. paintbrushes and help dis- lemon or lime rinds, and © 2014 King Features solve oil and grease. running the disposal until Synd., Inc. baking soda can be used Soap: Look for unsopropyl alcohol: By Samantha Mazzotta to gently scour surfaces scented soap that doesn’t Another common and Special to the Forum without scratching. contain petroleum distil- affordable disinfectant Cornstarch: A lates. Soap also demol- straight out of your firstWhile you might not be able to replace every gentle cleaning product ishes grease, and creates aid kit. cleaning product in your that can be used to polish a slick surface that makes How do you safehome, there are alterna- some furniture, clean win- it easier to wash food par- ly use these ingredients? tives to commercial prod- dows, and even shampoo ticles and bacteria from There are more ways than dishes. ucts ... and they’re proba- carpets. I have room to describe. Salt: When you Bora : The com- The back of the packages bly in your cupboard right now. Here are five you need more scrubbing mercial name for sodi- for many of these prodshould have on hand at all power than soda or starch, um borate, this chemical ucts like Bora , washing and surface scratches ar- cleans and disinfects sur- soda, citrus solvent and times: Lemon: A natural en’t a concern, salt is an faces, including wallpa- baking soda contain tips disinfectant that also im- excellent substitute for per and painted walls. It’s and instructions on safe even used to attract and use. Additionally, you can parts a pleasant scent. It’s scouring powders. In addition to these poison pests like roaches. find a trove of information no coincidence that many Washing soda: on the Web. commercial products are fairly benign cleaners, there are a few products Also known as SAL soda, lemon-scented. Eartheasy has a page Vinegar: ore that you should have that this is a mineral called so- dedicated to nontoxic than just a good disinfec- boost cleaning options dium carbonate. It’s used cleaning along with ways tant, vinegar is effective while having a limited for household cleaning to use the above ingrediagainst mold. t breaks up impact on the environ- and is often an ingredient ents. Real Simple’s webgrease, and can be effec- ment. These should be in laundry detergents and site has a page with 66 tive against some stains. stored out of the reach of coffee pot descaling for- different cleaning tips. Baking soda: n children and pets, and you mulas. Home Tip: Clean Citrus solvent: and deodorize your garaddition to being a good should follow package inA more powerful clean- bage disposal by throwdeodorant for the fridge, structions:
Christmas Tree Safety Tips It is important to remem- tricity, all open flames and other of doors. Keep the emergency ber that at no time can a real heat sources during the holidays. escape route clear of trees, Check all Christmas tree packages and furniture. Christmas tree start a fire. It can however be ignited by an lights, other electric decorations • Unplug tree lights and other and electrical appliances with decorations when out of the external source. According to National Fire worn electrical cords. Use only room or sleeping. Prevenion Association, elec- L approved electrical decoraDon’t let the very slim chance trical causes and lamps were tions and extension cords. of a fire involving your Christ• Place the Christmas tree mas tree keep you from enjoying responsible for starting almost half (47%) of structure fires well away from heat registers, the life, fragrance and tradition space heaters, fire places and that real trees bring to your involving Christmas trees. Another quarter of the fires wood stoves. Keep it well clear holiday celebration. were caused by various open flames, sparks and embers. The remaining fires were started by PALOMARES HILLS a variety of ignition sources, HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE including gas-fueled equipment and cigarettes. DECEMBER 9th & 10th Keeping the holiday safe from 10a.m. - 4p.m. from fire is an important responsibility for every family. AccordSHOP FOR UNIQUE GIFTS CREATED ing to the California Christmas BY TALENTED, LOCAL ARTISANS. Tree Association, these simple Enjoy lunch and fresh-baked cookies. steps can help guard against 6811 Villareal Dr the rare, but serious, event of a Castro Valley, CA 94552 holiday fire: Select the freshest-looking tree available. ake a fresh cut across the tree’s base and immediately place in water. Keep the tree’s water container full at all times, checking the water level daily. • Be extra careful with elec-
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VALLEY FORUM 8 CASTRO Wednesday, November 29, 2023
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CONTRACTOR SERVICE NOTICE TO READERS California law requires that contractors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. State Law also requires that contractors include their license number on all advertising. Advertisers appearing on this page without 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 (800) 321-2752. Unlicensed contractors taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board. CLASSIFIED AD DEADLINE: Monday 5:00 p.m.
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CASTRO VALLEY FORUM Wednesday, November 29, 2023
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10 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
Senior: Center continued from front page performance by Christine, a Poetry Reading featuring local poet Bruce Roberts, a Hula dance performance by Phyllis, a guitar jam demo, and a Len and Richard Dorfi Band Dance. Guided tours of the campus will also be available to the public. “The revitalization of the Kenneth C. Aitken Senior and Community Center reflects the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District’s dedication to creating spaces that resonate with the spirit of our community,” H.A.R.D. board of directors president Rick Hatcher told the Forum. On the outside, the Center is getting an overhaul, from its roof to improved accessible site access and parking. On the inside, visitors will notice new commercial flooring, upgraded lighting, revamped restroom “Shine on,” mixed media on wood by Castro Valley artist Claudine Krause facilities, enhanced transaction on view at the “Arts & Letters Encore Exhibition” in the HAHS Art Gallery. counter accessibility, and a fresh coat of paint. The Center includes two main halls, each with its own CJ Strickland and Cara Impallomeni share a tender kitchen, and seven smaller father-daughter moment in The Man Who Saved Christmas. Opening this Friday, December 1, at rooms for separate activities. Twenty-nine artists, utilizing divisive world. All these fine By Bruce Roberts Chanticleers Theatre in Castro Valley. There is also a patio area for every skill from oil and acrylic works of art complement the SPECIAL TO THE FORUM outstanding historical displays entertainment and outdoor-spepainting, to graphic drawing, cific functions. Hatcher noted to quilting, to poetry, to digital always on exhibit there. he Hayward Area that enhancements to the faciliprinting, to mixed media, to Historical Society is Now, through January 30, ty are expected to pave the way the keeper of Hayward calligraphy have taken over the every Saturday from 11 to 3, for additional programs and HAHS wall space. Area History. Founded in fans of both Art and History activities. 1956, the Society has done its More exotic techniques are can enjoy both passions at the berg, Cadence Santyipsum, continued from page 5 Construction on the Senior best to keep records and focus the frottage collages of Ruey Hayward Area Historical Socibeyond and includes: Michael Mathilda Babcock, Vivian on the nearly 150 years of ideas Syrop, the use of markers on and Community Center was ety, 22380 Foothill Blvd, HayCrocker, Serena Sweat, Connor a collaboration between the Sally, Christopher Crosby and details that have made up galvanized steel by Tiffany ward. (Park behind building in Taylor, Angel Veliz Vasquez Cruz, Jordyn Foley, Torey contractor Calstate Construc- this fine town. Wan, and several examples of the lot off of Russell Way). and Kayly Veliz Vasquez. Bookstein, Michael Vetrotion, TBP/Architecture, project Now, branching out, HAHS Chinese ink and color on xuan Bruce Roberts is Hayward vec, Cara Impallomeni, CJ The Man Who Saved consultants, various Alameda has joined with the Hayward paper by Benjamin Chang and Arts Council Board Vice Strickland, Antonio Cervantes, Christmas plays three weeks County agencies, and H.A.R.D. Arts Council to add an art John To. Also impressive is President. Please visit www. Lissette Chao, Kelly Crocker, only: December 1-17! staff was pivotal to the progallery, a home for local artists, Khristel Johnson’s quilt titled haywardartscouncil.org for Lyida Crocker, Ashleigh JohnFor tickets ($25-30) or more ject’s success. “Unity,” a concept so needed more free exhibitions and to its already notable local son, Benjamin Hoang Nguyen, info, visit www.Chanticleers. today in our war-torn and The improvements were programs. museum. Emme Maher, Kenny Silberorg or call 510-SEE-LIVE. paid for in part by the passage of the $250,000,000 Measure F1 bond that 78% of local voters approved in 2016. Hatcher added that H.A.R.D. used the Hughes. rest of the funding to make continued from page 2 improvements to renovations landscaping, to create a safe, More information about inviting atmosphere for visitors. Sulphur Creek Nature Center, at the Mission Hills Driving including hours, directions, and Range, Kennedy Park, Mia’s “Easy access to parks and recreation are at the core of our volunteer opportunities, can be Dream Come True Playground, Bay Area cities and neighbor- found on the H.A.R.D. website. Hayward Community Gardens, hoods,” said Fremont Bank and (https://haywardrec.org/1991/ and various updates to tennis and basketball courts. Nature-Centers) Foundation executive Brian
Hayward History—and Art!
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Christmas: Chanticleers’ Production Opens Friday
Sulphur: Nature Center
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SEVEN RESCUED FROM TESLA CAR CRASH: Alameda County Fire Department (ACFD) rescued seven people from a single-car crash near the eastbound 580 and Grove Way exit on November 18 at 6:12 p.m. First responders were dispatched to the scene following a call from the driver that his Tesla Model X landed inside the creek bed down a 60-foot embankment. The passengers—three adults, three children, and one toddler—were transported to a local hospital and treated for minor injuries.
Free
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
MAC: The Castro Valley Central Business District Specific Plan Discussed
LETTERS Please Ban These Weapons
continued from front page is in the process of preparing the “environmental justice element” as part of a 2016 State Senate bill (SB 1000) that established environmental justice requirements for all cities and counties in California. The Agency plans to present it for approval by the MAC in December and adoption by the Board of Supervisors in March. The EJE contains goals and policies to reduce health risks in disadvantaged communities. Goals include reducing pollution, promoting equitable access to food and physical activity, improving access to safe housing, and promoting engagement in the public decision-making process. MAC member Ken Carbone said these were no doubt worthy goals but questioned the number of policies, agencies, and red tape involved. He further questioned when money to fund county staff to improve such policies would be available. Others mentioned that, though an EJE is state-mandated, it’s unlikely to be enforced meaningfully. “There needs to not just be goals, but achievable goals,” said MAC member Chuck Moore. A draft of the EJE is available at acgov.org/cda/planning/ generalplan/publicdraft.htm Central Business Plan Review Also, at Monday night’s meeting, the County planning staff provided the latest in a series of updates on the “Central Business District Specific Plan” (CVCBDSP), which is part of the larger Castro ValleyGeneral Plan. The CVCBDSP has seven focus objectives: creating a community focal point and regional destination, community character and design, pedestrian-friendly and accessible, economic development, transportation, housing, and
TO THE
11
EDITOR
Where Has the Focus Gone Dealing With Big CV Issues?
open space/environment. Thank you for your article on the public hearing our SherThis week, the MAC once again expressed concerns about iff’s Office held, as required by AB 1, on their retention and Dear Editor, how traffic and parking coe ist use of military weapons. Sheriff’s Office Discusses ilitary Equipment (11/22/23). I was one of over a dozen people from our with a pedestrian-centered In the recent meetings I have attended (LAFCO, Cityhood, downtown, calling the balanc- congregation, Starr King Unitarian Universalist Church, in FairAC, Alameda County Planning, Specific Plan, Rotary, and view who attended to ask the Sheriff to ban the use of scattershot Chamber of Commerce events) I can’t help but get the sense ing act “three-dimensional multi-munition weapons. This is a type of indiscriminate pain chess.” While they said that from these forums that the pieces do not fit very well together to compliance weapon banned elsewhere in the country. ideally, everyone wouldn’t be see a future that might look good to the citizens of Castro Valley driving to the downtown area and I wonder where the focus has gone to deal with some big isScattershot multi-munitions have cruelly been used against each time they visit, that simply mentally ill people incarcerated at Santa Rita Jail on four ocsues that need addressing first before all of the other distractions might not be a realistic view that have been put in the mix. casions in the past two years. These multiple projectile “scatof how people actually behave tershot” weapons are inherently indiscriminate. Analysis by The last meeting I went to was a LAFCO meeting where the when out shopping or dining. Physicians for Human Rights finds that these weapons are more final report and Alameda LAFCO’s nitial Feasibility Analysis (IFA) for CV was discussed at a meeting on November 9th in “We cannot currently county dangerous than single projectiles. They cannot target a single individual or a specific body part. Dublin and approved. Dublin? on public transportation even Amnesty International has called for a ban against such Jennifer Stephenson with Policy Consulting laughed when she within a half-mile of our downtown,” pointed out MAC weapons. Sheriffs’ departments in San Francisco, Santa Clara, said she would highlight a few items from the report since the member Moore. San Joaquin, San Mateo, and Solano Counties do not have or use report was 462 pages and of course no one would be reading the these weapons. We call upon Sheriff Sanchez to heed the call of whole thing. Our supervisor for CV who does not live in an unThe current CVBDSP Amnesty International, American Friends Service Committee, incorporated area was not in the room or on zoom. Commissionincludes land use like “core pedestrian retail” in the Village Interfaith Coalition for Justice in our Jails, Families Advocating er Lam was on zoom in place of Nate Miley. He did come onto area and central Castro Valley for the Seriously Mentally Ill and other groups calling for a ban the zoom call about 1 1/2 hours into the meeting to vote for an item. Frank Mellon requested to speak at the meeting during the Boulevard, the “transit village” of these dangerously indiscriminate and cruel weapons. –Bob Britton, Castro Valley CV portion. Kudos to him for his continual and persistent input near the BART station, and the into the issues that he has great concern with what is happening “professional medical district” in CV and he brought up oath infractions that he sees within down Lake Chabot Road. The LAFCO. I have concern with our CV Chamber of Commerce. series of meetings and updates I thought they would be more active in all these forums since was designed to see how the public would like things shaped Reflecting on the recent CV Light Parade, a wonderful gather- they now have 300 members. I have been looking for that pot of in the future. ing which served to bring our little town closer together, as well coffee and cookies that are supposed to be at a location that now County staff said that many as the FORUM letter of a few weeks ago where Vicki Stadelman is shuttered. –Cheryl Uithoven, Castro Valley participants at the meetings felt reminded us to “Live, Shop, CV,” I began to ponder how our CV there were limited commercial businesses are supported by each other. Or, are they? What came options in the downtown busi- to mind is our nified School district and the yearly ritual of the School Picture. I discovered that of the 13 schools in Castro ness district and particularly Valley nified THREE of them stay true to the Castro Valley wanted more dining options. !"#$%&'()$&*"()+"*!, The public has said they see Spirit by contracting with a Castro Valley business. I would like !%-.&#&/%**%$&*(&%.0*($ a lot of room for improvement to publicly recognize the principles and staff of Stanton Elementary School, Creekside Middle School and Castro Valley High regarding pedestrian access Letters must include writer’s name, address and phone School for using a long time CV resident and business owner, in the district and bicycle number, and must be under 300 words. Letters can be Kurt Burton Photography! Way to go to show your support for infrastructure. As far as car edited for clarity or length. Letters are the views of the traffic, Castro Valley Boulevard Castro Valley! Hopefully others will be anxious to follow your author and not necessarily that of the newspaper or its at Norbridge, San Miguel, and lead to stay “at home” when looking for quality workmanship. advertisers. E-mail letters to: filesforforum@gmail.com Chester Street were all singled Small Towns NEED Small Businesses. or online at: mycvforum.com/letters-submission-form –Patrice McDaniel, Castro Valley out as intersections that need improvement. Parking proved to be a major concern- the limited availability along the Boulevard possibly Since 1965 hindering business. Some suggested multi-level parking. October 3, 1953 ~ October 11, 2023 The CVBDSP is currently in Phase II. More meetings are Mark Douglas Banning, 70, of Castro Valley, passed away at Stanford HosMortuary & pital due to a rare autoimmune blood disease. His life was centered on music: planned, and the eventual adopCrematory song writing, composing, performing, playing, teaching, and recording himself tion of the plan is tentatively and others. 21228 Redwood Rd., set for next winter. For updates Mark loved the guitar from a very early age. He sang for his preschool classCastro Valley and more information on the mates while playing air guitar with a broom. He had the privilege of performing project, visit cvgpimplementa581-9133 and recording with numerous bands. He produced over seven albums of his tion.com/ own works, ranging from ambient space music to rock. In most instances, he
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produced, composed and played all of the instruments as well as sang. He had an impressive twenty plus year stint with The Unauthorized Rolling Stones. His favorite was The Mark Banning Band where he could shine playing his originals. As a highly visual performer, Mark played the guitar behind his head, with his teeth, and on peoples’ tables as he strolled through the crowd. He could make the guitar “talk” and “laugh”. He used humor in his lyrics and was an enthusiastic, vivacious entertainer. A man of faith, in his last days, he was ready to be with Jesus, hug his parents, and meet Elvis. Mark is survived by his loving wife, Valerie, and his children: Jason (Liz) Banning, Jesse (Tiffany) Banning, Jordan (Christina) Banning, Jessica Gould, and Brian (Sarah) Ford. He also leaves behind a cherished legacy through his grandchildren: Jacob, Dylan, Devon, Becca, Elizabeth, Emmy, Ashlynn, Isaac, Adella, Tiffany P., David, Jenna, and Tim as well as his great grandchildren: Matthew, Sophia and Clarissa. Additionally, Mark is survived by his siblings, Marianne (Gary) and David. Mark’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his musical talents, kind spirit, quick wit, and unwavering love. May he rest in peace.
12 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, November 29, 2023
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK Our Athlete of the Week is Jordan Chen. This Castro Valley High School Junior is on the school Varsity Dance Team. In addition to her accomplishments in dance, Jordan is also an excellent student in the classroom. She recently participated in The Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition, hosted by the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD). It is held in different locations around the world but returned to RAD headquarters in London, England, this year. Jordan passed the RAD Advanced 2 Examination with Distinction earlier this year to qualify for the Fonteyn competition. In the 12-plus-year history of the studio that Jordan has danced with, only three previous dancers have ever qualified for the Fonteyn. Jordan was one of 79 international competitors this year and only one of 11 16-yearolds competing against other dancers ranging up to 20 years old. The weeklong competition consisted of daily classes at the RAD studios, culminating with the finals at London’s historic His Majesty’s Theater, where Jordan performed an original choreographed ensemble with the other competitors. Congratulations to Jordan for her achievements on the international stage.
The Matt Wilhite Team proud to Isisproud to sponsor sponsor Athlete of the Week Athlete of the Week Jordan Chen
Big Book Sale This Weekend The Friends of the CV Library will hold our Fall/Winter book sale Friday through Sunday, December 1 - 3. Sale times are as follows: • Friday 12/1: 6 to 8pm. Member Preview. Memberships are available at the door. • Saturday 12/2 10 am to 4 pm • Sunday 12/3 1 to 4 pm Bag Day - fill a bag for $5! There will be the usual great selection of fiction and mystery books, as well as all types of nonfiction, children’s books, DVDs, music CDs, audio books, and a variety of miscellaneous jigsaw puzzles, educational materials, games, etc. See $2 coupon in today’s Forum (good on Saturday only). Most books are $1 or less children’s books are 25 cents. They will also have a wonderful selection of gift quality, antiquarian, and special books at slightly higher prices. Proceeds from the sale pay for library programs and amenities that would not otherwise be possible. The Castro Valley Library is located at 3600 Norbridge Avenue.
A Better Approach to Nutrition: No Need to Obsess They also said, that for the most part, as long as I was thinking about their client nutrition coaching the other ate what they day (yes, these are the kinds absolutely of things I think about) and I remembered an interview with had to, they didn’t care what a nutrition coach to several else they ate. They had clients Olympic athletes I heard a that loved McDonald’s and while back (yes, these are the they were fine with it. kinds of things I listen to). I’m going to go out on a limb and say that you’re probThey were talking about how, due to the intense nature ably not an Olympic athlete. I’m sure not. So, if an Olympic of training for the Olympics, their clients absolutely needed athlete has that kind of leeway with their diet what does that to eat certain things to fuel mean for the rest of us? their training and recovery. By Mitch Rothbardt
SPECIAL TO THE FORUM
Could it mean that we’re taking nutrition too seriously? That obsessing over whether every bite we eat is “good” or “bad” maybe isn’t the best way to go about things? That listening to nutrition gurus screaming about having “the answer” to your problems isn’t the best use of your time and buying their stuff isn’t the best use of your money? There’s lots of miserable people making money from telling people how complicated nutrition is. But it’s not. It’s simple. And you know what’s amazing? You already know the answers. Even if you don’t realize it. You know eating fruits and vegetables is good for you and you know drinking water is, too. Our nutrition isn’t suffering from a lack of knowledge it’s suffering from TOO MUCH knowledge. That’s what makes it seem so overwhelming. Want to make some changes? Try this approach. Think about one change you can make with absolutely no problem and minimal effort. Make it easy. Got one?
On a scale of 1-10 how confident are you that you’ll do it If the answer is less than a 9, make it easier. I’m not kidding. Once you have it, start doing it. It can be as easy as drinking a glass of water at 10 am every day. Once you’ve done it 12 days out of 14, pick something else using the same method. DON’T SKIP STEPS AND MAKE IT TOO HARD! If this seems like you’re not doing anything, I get it, but you are. Here’s what: You’re getting a little success under your belt. This builds confidence and momentum. You’re thinking more proactively about what you’re doing. This gets you more engaged. You’re getting out of your comfort zone. This is where things happen. I know this concept can be a little tough, but if you’re having trouble finding a workable approach it may be because you’re making it too hard. Let me know what you think. 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.
Jazzy Barbour, daughter of Lisa Millora and Scott Barbour, went fishing for the very first time last week and caught a fish ust before dark It was like an early birthday gift as she turns 6 on Dec. 29. Congratulations on your reat Catch,’ a y ave a reat Catch’ you’d like to share mail info to filesforforum gmail.com
That’s a great Catch #CATCHTHEREALESTATEBUG
Paulette Johnson Realtor
paulettejohnson@kw.com 510-329-3297 DRE: 02016707
DRE: 02029039 Each office independently owned and operated
ADOPT-A-PET
Junior is a 11 month old Doberman mix. Junior is a high flying fun loving dog. Junior is looking for a home that can set him up for success with the training, love and kindness. To adopt or meet Junior contact Hayward Animal Shelter at 510-293-7200.
Dewey is a 4 month old German shepherd mix. Dewey is a pup that wants to just be the center of attention in your home. Dewey would do best in a home with teens and adults. To adopt or meet Dewey, please contact Hayward Animal Shelter at: 510-293-7200.