At Spanish Ranch II, we pay tribute to all our veterans with deep respect and gratitude. We recognize their sacrifices, their courage, and their dedicated service to our nation. Thank you for protecting our freedoms and for the example of strength and honor you bring to our community. Today and always, we celebrate your legacy.
In addition, we want to thank Jill Luna, our hostess for planning the event and Chef Delia for the delicious Mexican dinner. Attendees had a enjoyable time!
DECEMBER 2025
Inside this month’s issue:
• AARP update
• Community News
• How to prepare for fog.
Richard Norgrove 707-849-7258 Racer5gogo@gmail.com
Barbara Jaye Newsletter Layout and Design barbarajaye1@gmail.com
If interested, please reach out to a board member if interested in volunteering some of your time.
• Welcome & Welfare Director
• Activities Director
Food Giveaway Cancelled Until Further Notice
This year the federal government has purged hundreds of grants and programs that serve low-income people, particular seniors. Sadly, now it’s very personal to our community.
It is is with a heavy heart that I must tell you that One Nation Dream Makers has had to cancel all deliveries for the time being. However, there is hope. Its founder Ronnie Forbes, a disabled Army veteran who saw tough days, has made it his life's mission to serve those in need. He is working hard to restore the program, meeting with local governments and searching for alternate funding. May all of us pray that the closure is short-lived.
Los Amigos Community Events
Game Night
Every Wednesday at 6:00 pm in Club House
Donuts with friends!
3rd Friday of each month 10:00 am - Dec. 19 Clubhouse
Merry Christmas December 25, 2025
Senior Resources
PG&E Energy Partners 888-216-8463
Free weather stripping, caulking, compact fluorescent lights, showerheads, replacement of energy-hog refrigerators, and repair/replacement of broken or unsafe furnaces and water heaters.
PG&E CARE Program 866-743-2273
Discounts on gas and electric bills for low-income people.
Alameda County Minor Home Repair 510-670-5398
Grant program for emergency home repairs for homeowners. Maximum grant is $2,499 or the actual cost of repairs, whichever is less.
Oakland Housing & Development 510-238-3909
They offer grants for access improvement, lead safe housing and paint program, and minor home repairs. They also offer loan-based programs for home maintenance and improvement, emergency home repair, as well as weatherization and energy retrofit.
Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley 510-251-6304
They have two programs to help low-income seniors with a variety of interior and exterior repairs. One is a grant for up to $15,000 and you’ll pay nothing until the home is sold. They call the other a loan, but it actually works the same. No payments, no interest, but the principal will be deducted from the proceeds when the home is sold. That one is for much more; they appraise your house and provide an amount.
ReCares Equipment Recyclers 510-251-2273
Free medical equipment recycling program. Obtain used canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, etc You can also donate unneeded medical equipment for use by others.
Center for Elders’ Independence 510-251-2273
Health plan for seniors aged 55 and older who prefer not to move into a nursing home but who need help of health caregivers to stay at home.
Meals on Wheels 510-582-1263
Home-delivered meals for seniors unable to purchase or prepare meals for themselves.
Hayward Area Senior Center 510-881-6766
Located at 17800 Redwood Road, Castro Valley. Provides classes and activities, monthly lunches, social services, travel opportunities and special events.
Also, you can dial 211 and an operator can refer you to a wide range of service.
The Olé Funnies
‘Tiz the Season to be Jolly!
Senior Food Resources
Food pantries may temporarily close distribution, due to unforeseen circumstances or if food runs out.
Mon – Tue – Thur – Fri 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
https://www.foodnow.net/find-afood-pantry/
Tue & Fri 9:00 am – 11:00 am
2nd & 4th Wednesday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
3RD Saturday: 7:30 AM - 8:30 AM
Food types and availability may vary by site. Bring your own bags to sites.
South Hayward Parish, 27287 Patrick Ave., Hayward, Walk-up only
Alameda County Food Bank can connect you with resources for food
Peace Haven Freedom Store 1063 A St, Hayward, CA 94541
Eden United Church of Christ, 21455 Birch Street, Hayward
Hope 4 the Heart 22035 Meekland Ave., Hayward, CA 94544
• Meals on Wheels Low-income SENIORS age 60+ might be eligible for. Contact (510) 981-5250 for more info.
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• CAL FRESH - California's Food Stamp Program.
• To be eligible, you must meet income and resource limits. Any senior with a low income (↓ 200% of poverty) is eligible. Contact the Alameda County Community Food Bank: 510-635-3663 ext. 2 to see if you qualify
Farmer’s Market
Date & Time Location Address
Tues & Sat.
9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Every Saturday, 9:00 am 1:00 pm
Tuesdays
9:30am - 1:30pm
Every Saturday, 9:00 am 1:00 pm
Every Saturday 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Alameda Farmers Market 706 Haight Avenue Alameda, CA 94501
Castro Valley Farmers Market Corner of Redwood Rd. and Norbridge Ave. Castro Valley, CA 94546
Kaiser Farmers Market 2500 Merced Street San Leandro, CA 94577
San Leandro Farmers Market 15555 East 14th Street San Leandro, CA 94578 Bayfair Center
Union City Famers Market 30940 Watkins St. Union City is located in Old Alvarado Park, where street parking is available.
Every Saturday 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Hayward Farmers Market On Watkins between B & C St. Downtown next to City Hall
How to Prepare for Dangerous Fog & Super Fog
Fog, while a common natural phenomenon, can be dangerous if you’re on the road
From time to time, we also experience tule fog, which is especially dangerous because it’s very dense. Over the last few years, we’ve also dealt with “super fog,” a condition that is a combination of wildfire smoke and dense fog. The density and persistence of fog can lead to delays, detours, and sometimes cancellations of travel plans.
It’s vital to anticipate foggy conditions, stay informed via weather forecasts and consider alternate routes. Being prepared and navigating through or around fog-affected areas efficiently, minimizes risk to both traveler and infrastructure.
Essential Gear and Clothing for Foggy Conditions
• Waterproof jackets and pants to protect against dampness.
• Reflective clothing, like a safety vest, so people can see you if you’re outside.
• A sturdy pair of waterproof footwear ensures grip on slippery surfaces.
• Gloves and hats for additional warmth without hindering movement.
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries for visibility during low-light conditions.
• Have an emergency kit ready, including first-aid supplies, flashlights, extra batteries, water, non-perishable food, and blankets.
• A fully charged phone and charger. I often tether my phone to my car charger. It keeps it at peak charge and helps me grab the phone if it has fallen from my reach.
• Download an updated GPS navigation system which is crucial, in case road changes or detours arise. There are several apps you can download including Google Maps, Apple Map, and Waze. That said, also carry a paper map should the app fail
• If you don’t have a smartphone, purchase a weather radio. They cost about $30.
Prepare your vehicle with a thorough inspection.
• Check your car’s headlights, taillights, and fog lights for proper function
• Ensure windshield wipers are in top condition, leaving no streaks, and that the windshield washer fluid is full and suitable for foggy conditions.
• Be sure your tires are fully inflated and there is good tread to provide strong grip and safe handling on wet surfaces. Be sure your spare tire is in good condition and that you have the tools and knowledge to change it, if necessary.
• Clean all windows and mirrors to prevent fog from obstructing your view.
Navigating in Fog.
• Reduce speed to ensure more time to react to unexpected obstacles.
• Use road reflectors and lane markings to guide your path. Maintain a considerable distance between your vehicle and others, allowing ample stopping space.
• Stay in your own lane or find a safe vehicle to follow.
• Use fog lights if you have them. They enhance visibility and cut through dense fog to illuminate the road ahead.
• Don’t use high beams as they reflect off fog, reducing visibility.
• Regularly check the weather forecast before heading out.
• Navigator apps with real-time updates on road conditions and alternate routes can guide you safely.
• Keep your hearing attuned to the environment to alert you to approaching vehicles or changes in road quality, providing another layer of safety.
• Don’t use high beam lights. They can reflect off fog, creating blinding glare and impaired visibility.
• Avoid distractions like mobile phones or loud music, which can impair focus. If fog becomes too dense, it’s safer to pull over to a secure area until conditions improve.
• Stay alert. Be aware of your surroundings and be cautious of potential hazards, such as animals or other vehicles.
• Keep windows and mirrors clear of condensation for unobstructed views.
• Practice patience and stay calm if you encounter unexpected delays or require assistance, ensuring your safety and well-being throughout the journey.
• Notify others of your travel plans, the route you plan to take and expected arrival time for safety follow-up. Having a backup plan or alternative route is advisable in case of road closures or extreme conditions.
• Confirm your insurance details and emergency contact numbers are accessible in case assistance is needed.
By following these tips and being proactive, you can enhance your safety and reduce the risk of accidents when driving in foggy conditions. Remember, fog can turn a simple drive into a white-knuckle ride, so it's important to stay informed and prepared.
Local Events
2026 Senior Changes
Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA): Social Security benefits will increase by 2.8%, which translates to an average of about $56 per month, starting in January 2026. It is among the smallest COLA increases since 2020.
Medicare Premiums: The Part B premium for 2026 will rise by 11.6%, to $206.60 per month. For the average retiree, the increase is $56 for individuals and $88 for married couples. According to the Social Security Administration, this could offset the COLA increase.
Full Retirement Age (FRA): The FRA will officially rise to 67 years, meaning that individuals born in 1960 or later will need to wait until age 67 to receive full benefits. However, it will also eliminate reduced benefits for retirees with pensions or from nonSocial Security covered employment.
Temporary Senior Deduction (aka Senior Bonus): Many have been misinformed about this deduction. They believe Social Security benefits would stop being taxed from tax-year 2025 going forward. That is not true and it has nothing to do with Social Security. Here are the facts:
• This is temporary benefit. It applies to only tax years 2025-2028.
• It doesn’t matter whether you’re receiving Social Security or not and applies to all seniors 65 and older during those years.
• This is a deduction. A deduction lowers your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). For example, if you’ve ever owned a home, you deducted property taxes and interest.
• It is not a tax credit. However, it does lower your taxable income (AGI), so you’re paying tax on less income, thus lowering your income tax.
• It creates a senior deduction of up to $6,000 per year ($12,000 if you’re married, and filing jointly and both of you are 65+). If an individual makes more than $75,000, ($150,000 for married couples), it will begin to decrease.
• Confused? It is confusing. This is time to reach out to your CPA or tax preparer, who can make the calculation to show you how much money you are likely to save.
Get the Most of Your AARP Membership
Most of us are probably members of AARP. But I bet most don’t know what comes with membership. Their discounts and programs are significant. For assistance on any of these programs, go to AARP.org/membership/benefits.
Learn How to Support Your Brain Health. Access to AARP “Staying Sharp” – an online program focused on brain health with interactive activities, recipes, and more.
Mobile Phone Service. Members get access to an exclusive offer from Consumer Cellular. Get two lines of unlimited talk, text, and data for $55 per month. No long-term contract is required. Includes an extended 45-day risk-free guarantee.
AARP Books: Find e-books, print books, and free downloads on a wide range of topics, including health, technology, money, caregiving, and more. Members get a 40% discount.
Substantial Discounts
• AARP Smart Driver Course: Online class for a discount on car insurance
• Entertainment: Local restaurants, including many with buy one, get one free offers.
• Insurance:
o Dental
o Long-term care
o Vision plans
o Life insurance
• Travel:
o Car rentals
o Cruises
o Flights
o Vacation packages
• Shopping:
o Groceries
o Clothing and accessories
• Home Services:
o Food and housing
o Health
o Employment
o Home security
o Home warranty
o Real Estate
• Work & Finances:
o Retirement planning
o Work services
o Medicare supplements
o Pet insurance
o Vehicle & Property
o Hotels & resorts
o Rail & tours
o Travel planning
o Flowers and gifts
o Gas and auto services
o LifeLine Medical Alert
o LifeLock
o Family Caregiving
o Caregiver Resource Guides
o Nutrition Caregiver Support
o Local volunteer opportunities
Grammy’s Best Bar Cookies
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups rolled oats
1½ cups brown sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1½ cups butter, melted
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
1 (12 ounce) jar caramel ice cream topping
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Preparation
1. Preheat the oven to 350ºF Grease a 9x13-inch pan.
2. In a large bowl, stir together 2 cups flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and baking soda.
3. Mix in melted butter until evenly distributed. Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly toasted. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with chocolate chips. Set aside.
5. In a small bowl, mix caramel topping with butter; drizzle evenly over the chocolate chips. Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture evenly over the caramel layer and press down lightly.
6. Bake for 15 more minutes in the preheated oven. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
