August 23, 2023

CASTRO VALLEY FORUM CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

A COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SERVING CASTRO VALLEY SINCE 1989

Fate of The Old Library

By Amy Sylvestri CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

The fate of the old library on Redwood Road was once again up for discussion by the Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) at their meeting Monday night. Everyone wants the building to be used to help local veteransbut will it be a simple veterans’ resource center or a multi-story veterans’ affordable housing project?

Originally built in 1962, the site at 20055 Redwood Road has sat empty for nearly 15 years. The county’s General Services Agency has estimated that renovations to get the site operating would range from $1.5 million to $9 million, depending on the level of improvements.

The Board of Supervisors has directed county staff to pursue using the property for veterans’ housing and other services. The prioritization of see MAC on page 5

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Tomorrow (August 24) will be the last day of operation for the Rite Aid on Castro Valley Boulevard. A spokesperson for the corporate offce told the Forum that prescriptions are being transferred to the Walgreens in the Castro Village Shopping Center down the street. A store manager said employees are being offered a chance to transfer to other sites. The next closest Rite Aid is at 1355 MacArthur Blvd, San Leandro. “A

Director Calls for Clarity

By Mike McGuire CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

The East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) has vowed to fx a practice of letting hundreds of millions of dollars be transferred between projects with no notifcation to nor approval from the elected board of directors.

decision to close a store is one we take very seriously and is based on a variety of factors including business strategy, lease and rent considerations, local business conditions and viability, and store performance,” the representative said in an email. The Castro Valley Rite Aid had seen declining business over the years and property managers considered subleasing the site for a Sprouts Grocery store in 2016. Originally built in 1964 as Lee Brothers Value World, the store converted to a Payless Drug Store in the 1970s. No word yet on any plans for the property.

Fall Festival Marks Year of Chamber Transformation

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

The Castro Valley Fall Festival is a time for the community to gather and explore our diverse music, food, and art communities, but for the Castro Valley and Eden Area Chamber of Commerce, it also marks a year of growth and change.

This year’s Fall Festival will occur on Saturday and Sunday, September 9-10, on Castro Valley Boulevard between Redwood Road and San Miguel Avenue.

Presented by the Chamber and its event sponsors, more than 125 vendors and attractions will again line the streets and the center of the downtown district.

And while attendance is expected to be more than last year, the Chamber is sponsoring a few incentives for residents and business owners to spread the word about the Fall Festival. For example, last week, people were encouraged to post a picture of a previous Fall Festival tagged #CVFallFest and indicate if they see FESTIVAL on back page

April Chan, Ward 7 Director who represents both Castro Valley and San Leandro, raised the issue at the end of the EBMUD board’s August 8 meeting, when board members can make general comments. Some $279 million was transferred without board knowledge in fscal year 2023 alone, she said.

“That’s a lot of money going project to project, and directors have no idea about it,” Chan said.

EBMUD Director of Finance Sophia Skoda said management always knew exactly where the money was see EBMUD on page 2

Presented by Castro Valley and Eden Area Chamber of Commerce, over 35,000 people are expected to attend this year’s Fall Festival September 9 and 10.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL SINGER

EBMUD

RITE AID CLOSING TOMORROW MAC MEETING

Weather August 23 - August 27, 2023

EBMUD: Director Calls for Oversight

continued from front page and what it was being used for. Details weren’t being shared with the board up till now, she said, but will be moving forward.

Chan had received a letter from a constituent who turned out to also be an EBMUD employee complaining about the practice and passed it on to Internal Auditor Barry Gordin for investigation.

After seeing Gordin’s report, Chan said, “I was shocked to read in the audit report that in FY 2023 alone, $279 million was moved between projects with no approval or visibility from the elected Board of Directors. As such, we cannot provide the mandated fscal oversight that the pu lic deserves.”

She continued, “The report further states that the auditor will be placing necessary internal controls on the budget in the near future to ensure transparency. I have asked that this item be agendized so the Board of Directors can decide what are the next steps, if any.”

Chan also urged going back to previous years to see what transfers had occurred without board knowledge or approval. The amount Chan questioned had been moved to an improvement project at

“I was shocked to read in the audit report that in FY 2023 alone, $279 million was moved between projects with no approval or visibility from the elected Board of Directors.”

–April Chan, WARD 7 DIRECTOR

EBMUD’s Upper San Leandro water treatment plant.

Skoda said that any initial appropriation over $80,000 had always required board approval, but that transfers of any amount within appropriated funds hadn’t been going to the board.

However, an internal set of controls ensured agency managers knew what money was being spent where, with any transfers above certain amounts requiring signoffs from department heads, she said. EBMUD is divided up into six departments.

“It’s a bit like a family setting aside some money for home repairs or improvements, and then discovering one part costs more than expected while another cost less,” Skoda said.

Budget Manager Sam Feldman, when he joined the agency about 18 months ago, had suggested informing the board about transfers within projects, she said.

Skoda said, “He just saw it as a good practice.”

he fnance director said there was already an internal report on transfers seen by herself, General Manager Clifford Chan (no relation to Director April Chan), other top managers and the affected department heads.

That report can be sent to the board as well, for their possible discussion, Skoda said, but her staff is still working on what exact format would be most useful to the board for its purposes.

Read, comment and share this article at: mycvforum.com

Become a Castro Valley Booklegger

Want to inspire kids to read?

f you re looking for a exi le volunteer opportunity, consider becoming a Booklegger for the Castro Valley Library!

Bookleggers visit K-5 classrooms across the Castro Valley nifed School istrict to give presentations on books.

Two options for the orientation meeting: In-person at the Castro Valley Library, this coming Monday, August 28 from 10:30 am to 11:30am or virtually via Zoom on Saturday, September 9 from 10:30 am to 11:30 am.

The orientation will serve

as an opportunity to meet current Bookleggers and hear why they love to volunteer, as well as gain information on volunteer and training requirements. After the orientation, there will be 6 trainings which will be held in-person weekly on Mondays from September 11th through October 16th from 10:30am-12:30pm at the Castro Valley Library. Please be available to attend each training session.

Please register for an orientation meeting by visiting aclibrary.org or call the library at (510) 667-7900.

The Castro Valley Booklegger Project is a partnership of the astro alley nifed School District and the Alameda County Library.

Sheriff’s Reports

COMPILED BY MICHAEL SINGER • CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Intoxicated Driver

Monday, August 21: at 2:04 a.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested a 23-year-old woman from San Jose on suspicion of driving while intoxicated and an outstanding warrant for drunk driving. The woman was traveling on Aspen Avenue near Castro Valley Boulevard when deputies pulled her over. Deputies report the woman had a blood-alcohol content three times the legal limit. She was taken to Santa Rita Jail pending $10,000 in bail.

Cannabis for Sale

Doctors Launch Moonshot Research to Save Daughter

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Two East Bay doctors are racing against time to save their two-yearold daughter, who suffers from an ultra-rare gene defect.

Sutter Health physicians eri ediatrics and ach Landman ain Management were on vacation in 2022 with their three daughters when their baby Lucy contracted a cold that drained her of her energy and ability to sit up and eat normally. Multiple brain, spinal, and nerve tests proved negative, but genetic testing found Lucy has two bad copies of the A 3 gene, one of the many genes involved in cell communication. It’s one tiny amino acid difference in one tiny protein, but it’s critical.

“Her brain is developing normally, but it might not communicate properly with the rest of the ody, ach Landman told the Forum. “Without a

cure, we were told that she would never walk or talk, and she would suffer from severe seizures. Geri and I have medical training, so we read all the papers on the subject and found some startling information.”

Lucy’s condition is so rare that only 30 to 50 people worldwide have this defect in their genes, ach said, adding that his other daughters do not have the same condition.

he cure for A 3 is being developed at Nationwide Children’s Hospital Center for Gene Therapy right now. Scientists have used Lucy’s donated cells as the scientifc building blocks for the cure. ach says the latest round of clinical tests should be wrapped up by this Fall, and the family will know if the treatment has a chance. The procedure includes adding the proper genes into Lucy’s system using the shell of a virus structure as the carrier.

However, because there are simply not enough kids known to have Lucy’s genetic disorder, no drug company, government, or investor is interested in funding this research.

Last year, the Landmans co-founded Moonshots For nicorns moonshotsforunicorns.org , a 501 c 3 non profit, to raise awareness and pay for the nearly $2 million in research costs. The results would be made available to other researchers as a way to treat other gene-related issues.

“The goal is to give these kids the est shot at life, ach said. “About 1 percent see MOONSHOT on page 5

Sunday, August 20: at 1:30 a.m., a 29-year-old man who refused to give an address was arrested for an outstanding warrant for illegally possessing cannabis packaged for sale. Deputies stopped the man for questioning outside the Castro Valley BART station, where they positively identifed the man and the warrant. The man was taken to Santa Rita Jail pending $15,000 in bail.

Assault on Former Partner

Saturday, August 19: at 11:21 p.m., a 911 call about a loud and aggressive-sounding argument sent deputies to a home on Betlen Court near Grove Way. There, they arrested a 35-year-old woman from Castro Valley on suspicion of spousal assault and battery. Deputies report the woman used to date the victim at the address and had an outstanding warrant for previous altercations. The woman was taken to Santa Rita Jail.

Car Crash Ends in Arrest

Wednesday, August 16: at 10:21 p.m., deputies arrested a 24-year-old man from San Leandro on suspicion of possessing an illegal weapon and illegal narcotics. The man had just been in a car crash on Castro Valley Boulevard near Stanton Avenue. When deputies arrived to investigate, they found an extendable baton weapon and three tabs of acid in the man’s car. The man was taken into custody.

Revoked Driver’s License

Wednesday, August 16: at 7:05 p.m., a 35-year-old woman from San Lorenzo was arrested as part of a warrant issued for her capture. Deputies served the warrant outside the Castro

Valley BART station on Norbridge Avenue following a traffc stop. he woman admitted to her license being revoked because of a DUI. Deputies took the woman to Santa Rita Jail pending $2,500 in bail.

Back to Jail

Tuesday, August 15: at 10:25 p.m., deputies arrested a 42-year-old man with no permanent residence on suspicion of public intoxication, possessing illegal narcotics and related drug paraphernalia, and an outstanding warrant that was issued for possessing illegal tear gas. The man was detained following a citizen’s arrest for shoplifting. Deputies took the man to Santa Rita Jail pending $10,000 in bail.

Suspects Sought in Carjacking Incidents

Last uesday, fve men pulled a woman from her car at gunpoint as she attempted to exit her driveway on Sydney Way near Stanton Avenue. Alameda County Sheriff’s ffce A S Lieutenant Tya Modeste says the incident happened around 6:30 a.m. All fve men wore lack face masks and dark clothing. The woman was unharmed.

The carjacked vehicle is a black 2016 Nissan Sentra with alifornia plates MM 2 . The carjacking occurred within a few minutes before an attempted theft of a second

vehicle at the Mobile gas station on Lake Chabot Road and Quail Avenue. In that case, LT. Modest says the woman was a le to “ ee in her vehicle to safety.”

“During both carjacking incidents, the suspects drove the 2014 silver Hyundai Elantra with California plates B 55 , which was susequently determined to be an unreported stolen vehicle.” ACSO is hoping neighbors may have video surveillance footage of either incident. Anyone with information to call 510-667-7721.

CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Sutter Health physicians Geri and Zach Landman are racing against time to save their two-year-old daughter, Lucy, who suffers from an ultra-rare gene defect.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KREE PHOTOGRAPHY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Saturday, August 26: Free Artist Demo at Adobe Gallery

A.R.T., Inc. invites you to a Free Demo by Peggy Milovina Meyer this Saturday, August 26, from 2 to 4 pm in the Redwood Studio at Adobe Art Gallery & Center, 20395 San Miguel Avenue. The public is invited. She’ll teach the basic pen strokes and techniques for pen and ink sketching, which will help you develop great feld and travel sketching skills. Please bring a #2 pencil, ballpoint pen, and an eraser. Peggy will supply two illustration pens and several sheets of mixed media paper to the frst 25 people who attend. At the end of the demo, she’ll also gift a set of illustration pens by drawing a name.

Sunday, August 27

Dogs and Deputies Event

Alameda ounty Sheriff s ffce invites you to “Dogs and Deputies,” a community event taking place this Sunday, August 27, from 10 am to 2 pm at the Rowell Ranch Rodeo Park. It is a great way for the community to learn about dogs, get free dog-related services, and have a venue to chat with their local deputies. Bring your furry friend and join ACSO for fun at the Ranch!

Tuesday, August 29

Rotarians Gary Howard, Todd Anglin

Rotarians Gary Howard and Todd Anglin will discuss information pertaining to the astro alley owntown Specifc lan. A buffet lunch and the program take place at Redwood Canyon Golf Course (17007 Redwood Road, Castro Valley) at 12 noon to 1:30 pm. The cost of lunch is $20 and reservations must be made by 9 pm on Sunday, August 21, by contacting Rotary at cvrotary@iCloud.com or 510-402-5123. More info is available at castrovalleyrotary.org.

Tuesday, August 29

Adult Technology Classes

Learn how to get the most of your Android smartphone in this hands-on class with California Connect, Tuesday, August 29 from 1 to 3 pm at the Castro Valley Library. They’ll cover all the basics including the buttons, gestures, the basics of calling and texting, and the many accessibility options that make your device easier to use. Bring your Android smartphone and your Google ID and password. Advance registration is required. Register online at www.aclibrary.org (click on Events) or call 510-667-7900.

An Afternoon of Fur and Fun

This

Sunday

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

This Sunday, the community is invited to bring their dogs to the Rowell Ranch Rodeo Park for an afternoon of free fun and fur as part of the Dogs and Deputies event.

The Alameda County Sheriff s ffce A S is hosting the gathering between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on August 27 “to build community engagement through an interactive environment with their local deputies around the love of dogs.”

Organizers say the Sheriff’s ffce wanted a one of a kind community event for people to come and learn about dogs, see interesting demonstrations, and have access to dog rescue organizations.

“Even if you don’t own a dog, come to the ‘free’ event,” says ACSO Deputy Ruben Pola. “We are looking forward to seeing everyone there.”

People who bring their dogs will be provided a free pupachino (whipped cream treat), free dog related items and free nail trims by local groomer, Classy Canines. There will

at ACSO Event

also be a look-a-like contest for owners and dogs, Deputy Pola added.

In addition to getting to know ACSO Deputies, attendees can meet with members of the Alameda Search and Rescue, Alameda County Animal Control, and American Kennel Club dog trainer experts.

This is the second Dogs and Deputies event held by ACSO. Last year, nearly 100 people attended the free Dogs and

Deputies event at Meek Estate in Cherryland.

ACSO has provided other community outreach opportunities, including this past March’s Health and Wellness Fair and the “Halloween Comic Fest” at Crush Comics.

The Dogs and Deputies event will be held at the Rowell Ranch Rodeo Park (located at 9725 Dublin Canyon Road) in Castro Valley. Parking and attendance are free.

Happening This Week at Smalltown

TONIGHT, August 23: The LAB

The Lab is a monthly gathering that allows songwriters and poets to collaborate on new and existing pieces through exercises and brief performances. This month’s featured artist is Safyah Hernandez! Starts at 7:30pm Invitation by email only: info@smalltownsociety.com for more info and location.

Friday, August 25: Safyah Hernandez Record Release @ Pampas Cafe

Smalltown Society songwriter and BMG recording artist Safyah erenande will be performing hits from her newly released album “Homesick” available now on all streaming platforms. 7 to 9 pm at Pampas Cafe’s new location 22222 Redwood Rd. (adjacent to Trader Joe’s). FREE.

Friday, September 8: Paul Keim @ Pampas Cafe

Come join us for an evening of good food, drinks and music. Smalltown Society and Pampas Cafe continue their “Verse & Vibes” series with special guest Founder, Executive Director and Smalltown artist Paul Keim. 6 to 8 pm at Pampas Cafe’s new location 22222 Redwood Rd. (adjacent to Trader Joe’s). FREE.

AC Three Possible Design Options

continued from front page the property for veterans is something both the MAC and the county want, according to Eileen Dalton, director of Economic and Civic Development for the county.

Previously, the MAC has indicated that they’d like to see the building itself kept and use a service facility for vets. The county’s Parks Recreation and Historical Commission also wanted to keep the building

and have it placed on the county and state historical register for its value as an example of mid-century modern architecture.

County staff also looked at options to raze the site and rebuild, which would provide an opportunity for a much larger facility with housing on the upper oors. he MA saw three possible design options for mixed-use development, which would be quite dense

and tall on the relatively small footprint of the old library.

The three housing options ranged from 28 to 52 housing units and from three to fve stories with forty parking spaces. County staff said that the larger 52-unit option would likely be the most attractive to potential developers, as larger projects are more effcient for them to build.

In March, the Board of Supervisors once again discussed that matter and--where they had previously told staff to focus on mixed-use with the housing and a veterans’ center-- this time they added direction to also include a possible veterans’ center only option, without the housing.

“We are going to take a fresh look at everything,” said Dalton. “That’s what I can promise you.”

MAC member Chuck Moore expressed frustration that the project has taken so long to get off the ground.

“We worked on this in 2019, and it’s now 2023, and it’s still empty,” said Moore. “It’s almost embarrassing. I’m sure there are some veterans who have passed away. Will it be another four years?”

The next step will be for the Alameda County Fire Department to decide if the site is safe to be used temporarily while its ultimate fate is decided. Dalton told the MAC it would be at least six months before the matter came back before the community.

FINAL SHOWS: Rachel Powers and cast sing and dance in BRIGHT STAR at the Castro Valley Center or the Arts. Don’t miss the last ee end Sat rday A st at 0 pm and S nday A st at pm in the Castro Valley Arts Fo ndation C Arts prod ction. i cvarts o ndation.or

Senior Driver Safety Seminar Tomorrow

The library’s popular senior driving program returns tomorrow, Thursday, August 24, from 2 to 4pm. Conducted by the California Highway Patrol, this seminar will include: Compensating for Age-Related Changes, Tune-Up Your

Driving Skills, Rules of the Road, Safe Driving Tips; and more! Participants will receive a certifcate for completing this course which may lead to an insurance discount. You must be 65 or older to qualify. Registration is required for this

FREE program. To register, call the Library Information Desk at 510-667-7900 or see Events at www.aclibrary.org/ branches/csv. This program will be held in person at the Castro Valley library in the Chabot/Canyon room.

eri andman ith her da hter cy.

oonshot How to Help

continued from page 3 of people in the United States have some type of genetic disease. We would use the results from Lucy’s treatment like researchers do with developing u shots. ach year, we would build on developing research to be able to treat more people.”

The Landmans have been in contact with four or fve other families whose loved ones may have similar gene therapy needs that could eneft from Lucy’s story.

But in the process, their youngest daughter has taught

the family resilience. “Marrying my personal and professional life has taught me, and I look for what Lucy has given us,” Zach said. “From this experience, she taught me to be a listener and to make sure I am learning and growing.”

The Moonshots for Unicorns page (moonshotsforunicorns.org) provides information on getting involved and opportunities to donate. You can follow Lucy’s journey on her Instagram page (@ lucythepgap3goose).

Also, at Monday night’s meeting, the MAC heard an update on Measure X, the $90 million bond approved by voters in 2020 to fund several phases of improvements at local fre stations. he frst round of improvements will impact two sites in Castro Valley in the coming months.

Fire Station 7 at 6855 Villareal Drive in Palomares Hills will be built adjacent to the existing fre station there. And Fire Station 25 will be built on the same site as the current station at 2033 San Miguel Avenue. Conceptual designs are currently being developed, and the project is set to be discussed at an upcoming MAC meeting in November.

Library’s Summer Concert Tomorrow

The Castro Valley Library’s third summer concert featuring Dee Coco & Co takes place tomorrow, Thursday, August 24 at 6:30 pm.

You’ll enjoy the ultimate party band! Dee Coco Johnson and her band do it all, cover-

ing your favorite R&B, Funk, Soul and Rock songs. They’ll have you up and dancing! No Registration Required. Bring your lawn chairs…bring the family…bring a picnic!

Automobile parking will be limited at the library. Alcohol-

ic beverages are prohibited on Alameda County Library property. The library is unable to provide chairs for this event. Contact the Castro Valley Library or visit: aclibrary.org for more information about this program and others.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BERENICE KU SULLIVAN

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMAN FAMILY

REAL ESTATE GALLERY REAL ESTATE GALLERY

Homeowner Affordability Drops to 16%

By Carl Medford, CRS Special to the Forum

As interest rates continue to rise, affordability in the California housing market is sinking lower and lower. In 2021, one in four of Golden State residents earned enough to buy a home at the statewide median price. The California Association of Realtors, in a recently released report, informs that today, with the median price of a detached single-family home at $830,620 and substantial-

ly higher interest rates, that number has dropped to one in fve 1 .

The report also revealed that in the second quarter, California residents required a minimum annual income of $208,000 to be able to qualify for the purchase of a statewide median-priced single-family residence SF . he monthly payment, including taxes and insurance on a 30 year, fxed rate loan, would be $5,200, Assuming a 20 down payment and an effective composite interest rate of . 1 on

a 30 year fxed rate loan, the required monthly payment, including taxes and insurance, would be $5,200. This would require an income of $208,000 to qualify. With interest rates currently inching higher, more income will be needed.

Things are worse in Alameda County, with a median price of 1,2 5,000. ith a 20 downpayment of $255,000, an income of $319,600 would be required to manage a monthly payment of $7,990. With these numbers pushing many buyer wannabes out of the running, more prospective purchasers are looking towards lower priced condos or townhouses to enable them to become homeowners. Statewide, the median price for a condo/ townhouse is 0,000 23 lower than SF s , re uiring a lower qualifying income of $160,400 and a monthly PITI payment of $4,010.

In contrast, the rental rate for a SF in astro alley, depending on size and location, ranges between $3,000$4,600/month, with condos/ townhouses/apartments priced lower, averaging between $2,000-$3,400/month.

As mentioned in previous articles, one would normally expect rising interest rates to push home prices down. Unfortunately, as homeowners continue to refuse to put their homes on the market, the record low inventory is keeping prices at an artifcial high. Soaring home values actually make it more diffcult for long-time homeowners to move since many, who purchased years ago at low prices, face signifcant capital gains taxes should they sell. Coupled with the prospects of liquidating existing low mortgage rates, it simply makes no sense for many to sell at this time. Factor in an economy that is showing moderate strength, it is not anticipated that this situation is going to change anytime soon.

Dealing with Root Rot and Airborne Fungus

By Buzz Bertolero The Dirt Gardener

QI’m concerned a out my ffteen year old Apricot tree. The growth was lush and vigorous in the spring, but now one section of the canopy is dead. It happen quickly, starting in early June. What’s going on, and what must I do to prevent it?

APhytophthora Root Rot and Euypta Die Back are the two primary causes for sections of the canopy in Apricot trees to die. They affect major and minor branches/limbs. Phytophthora Root Rot is a soil-borne fungus that attacks the roots of Apricots, along with Cherry, Peach, Nectarine, and Plum trees. Root rot is the primary suspect when a limb or section of a tree fails to break dormancy and leaves out in the spring. It’s also the reason when for no apparent reason, the foliage on a branch collapses/wilts and turns brown shortly after the rainy season concludes. You would expect this problem in clay soils that drain poorly and receive exces-

sive summer irrigation. A good soaking with a large watering basin once every three weeks is suffcient for mature Apricot, Cherry, Peach, Nectarine, and Plum trees. Phytophthora Root Rot is a slow-developing disease. ou ll fnd more information at http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/r5100611.html.

That being said, I don’t think this is your problem. Instead, Euytpa Die Back would be my educated guess. Euytpa Die Back is only a problem with Apricot trees and grapes. It’s an airborne fungus that enters the tree through the pruning wounds

When’s it’s damp and wet after pruning. You need a week or so of dry weather so the pruning wounds callus over. Euypta Die Back was not an issue in 2022 because of the dry conditions.

The affected branches or limbs collapse around Memorial Day or early summer for no apparent reason. You correct this by changing the time of the year you prune. It’s now recommended to prune Apricots from August through early November. Although the foliage hasn’t

turned yellow and dropped, they’re in the early stages of dormancy as the year’s growing and fruiting cycle is fnished. The biggest drawback of fall pruning is the leaves as they obscure the branching. So it’s a little more diffcult on which branches need removing. ou ll fnd more in formation at http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/r5100911.html.

Note: When fruit trees are under stress from Phytophthora Root Rot and or Euypta Die Back, borers can attack and be a secondary problem. It’s not uncommon for globs of amber-colored sap to be on the limbs and branches. It’s very possible for an Apricot to be suffering from both problems concurrently. The ideal prevention is to keep the tree healthy by not over-watering during the summer months and avoiding planting under the canopy. Watering once every three weeks is suffcient. ach tree should have a watering basin around them that is six to eight inches high and extends from the trunk to a foot beyond the drip line. his asin is flled multiple times when you water.

Buzz Bertolero is an Adanced California Cer ifed Nursery Professional. The Dirt Gardener’s website is www. dirtgardener.com and questions can be sent by email to buzz@dirtgardener.com

Homes

RECENT HOME SALES

WEEKEND GARDENER

Best Buys

With the summer gardening season winding down, look for bargains for your fall landscaping projects. Flowering plants in 1-gallon containers, such as lantana, star jasmine, owering vines and onal geraniums are on sale at some nurseries and home centers.

Feeding Trees and Shrubs

Feeding Trees and Shrubs

ontinue to water and fertili e fruit trees after the harvest is gone. hey need nutrients to produce a good crop next season. ive yellowing a aleas, citrus, rhododendrons and camellias an iron supplement along with their normal fertili ing routines.

Flowers

rolong fuchsia looms y picking off the faded owers and yellowed leaves. ut ack ranches to force side ranches and owering. Fertili e and water them well. Feed chrysanthemums until their buds begin to show color and open. Continue to gently shape roses by pruning suckers, unwanted branches and spent blooms.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

You can run a classified ad for a little as $35 a week. Your ad runs in both of our newspapers, the Castro Valley Forum on Wednesday and the San Leandro Times on Thursday. You can also save $5 by placing your ad on our website at castrovalleyforum.com or sanleandrotimes.com. We’ll call you for your credit or debit card info for payment.

To place an ad by phone call Patrick Vadnais at 510-614-1560, Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

IF

Thanks to our many Readers who SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

CONCRETE SERVICE

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CONTRACTOR SERVICE

NOTICETO 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.

FENCES/DECKS

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GARAGE SALES

Multi-Family Sale. Vinyl records, furniture, clothing, tools. Saturday & Sunday. 9am-4pm. 20852 Baker Road, CV.

GARDENING

*ANYYARD WORK. Cleanups and Maintenance. Free Estimates. Call 510-798-1833.

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FREE - Tree chips. Delivered free. Call 510-889-1169.

HELP WANTED

IT Senior Software Engineer (San Leandro, CA): Design and develop desktop and web applications for terminal operations. Analyze business requirements and existing code supporting the development of product functional specifications working with business analysts and customers. Design components of software systems by writing design specifications, descriptions of interfaces, services, business components, and interaction between the components. Work with software development; Optical Character Recognition (OCR); video streaming communication protocols, including H.264/265, TCP/IP, Serial, and UDP; Microsoft .NET; Azure DevOps; C# programming language; .NETCore; and, Tensor Flow AI models. Req. Master's degree + 2 yrs of exp or Bachelor's degree + 5 yrs of exp. Salary Range: $183,310.00 - $233,000.00 per year. Email resume to anthony.pusillo@portsamerica.com or mail resume to Anthony Pusillo, Smart-Tecs LLC, 55 N. Arizona Place, Suite 400, Chandler, AZ 85225. Must Ref# D02STL.

HOUSE CLEANING

Just Like Gramma’s House Cleaning. Summer Special 10% OFF. 20 years experience. Licensed/ Insured. Phenomenal cleaning! Owner Fatimah 510-978-6803.

MISC. FOR SALE

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) 1992 BMW 525i white station wagon, automatic, 1-Owner, excellent condition. $5,000. Call 510-614-0150.

MISC. WANTED

WANTED - Reel to reel music tapes, Call Patrick 510-517-3351. Rent it FAST with a TIMES WANT AD ... 614-1558

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

SERVICES

HANDYMAN & CONTRACTORS

Are you interested in buying or selling a home or property?

Would you like the help of a Professional Agent?

For assistance call ...

HOPE YOU FIND just the job you are looking for!

REAL ESTATE

Rent it FAST with a TIMES

You can run a classified ad for a little as $35 a week. Your ad runs in both of our newspapers, the Castro Valley Forum on Wednesday and the San Leandro Times on Thursday. You can also save by placing your ad on our website at castrovalleyforum.com or sanleandrotimes.com. We’ll call you for your credit or debit card info for payment.

HOME SERVICES GUIDE

Help for the homeowner means business for you!

To place an ad by phone call Patrick Vadnais at 510-614-1560, Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

WANT AD ... 614-1558

To Place an Ad call 614-1558

San Leandro 14544 Tiburon Road, 5 bedroom, 2 bath house for sale by owner. Hottub., 2 car garage. $1,200,000 o.b.o. by appointment only call 509-690-2947.

TREE SERVICE

To Place an Ad ... Call 614-1558

RENTALS

To Place a Garage Sale Ad 614-1558

*ACAREFULTREE SERVICE. Certified. Arborist. Lic.#694067. Trimming, Removals. FREE Estimates Bonded. Call 510-581-7377.

To Place a Garage Sale Ad call 614-1558

IF YOUR GARAGE SALE IS RAINED OUT, WE'LL RUN YOUR AD AGAIN FOR NO EXTRA CHARGE. SLTimes

San Leandro 62+ community (NO ONE UNDER 62), Floresta Gardens area, $2,075; duplex, quiet, private court,2-Bdrm, single-story, walk-in shower, central heat, air conditioning, microwave, dishwasher, washer and dryer inunit, patio, carport. NO pets/smoking.510-352-7023 for requirements.

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REMODELING?

How about a new kitchen or bath? Check the TIMES "Classified Ads" & The TIMES "Home Service" ads for help!

YOUR INFO

Advertise your Home for rent in the San Leandro Times & Castro Valley Forum

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– Avacancy day is money lost forever –

Help for the homeowner means business for you! San Leandro Times HOME SERVICES GUIDE Call 614-1558

To place an ad call 510-614-1558

CLASSIFIED AD DEADLINE: Monday 5:00 p.m.

LANDLORDS - Advertise your units!

– Avacancy day is money lost forever –R. Bowman NEED - MUSIC LESSONS or PIANO TUNING? Check the Classified Ads under “MUSICALSERVICES” for help.

LANDLORDS – Advertise your units! Avacancy day is money lost forever ... R. Bowman

Help for the homeowner means business for you! San Leandro Times HOME SERVICES GUIDE Call 614-1558

Health & Fitness: Stop Stretching (Part 1)

By Mitch Rothbardt SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Let s re think stretching. May e even stop doing it. on t worry. ll explain why. t may go against what you ve heard, ut have my reasons.

know you think you want to e more exi le. know you think stretching helps various aches and pains and injuries, ut that may not e the case. As a matter of fact, stretching may hurt you in the long run. Follow me. promise ll land the plane safely.

Soft tissue injuries, injuries involving muscles, tendons, or ligaments , tend to happen when tissues are put into an ex treme range of motion M . Stretching, y its nature, puts soft tissue into extreme M. Stretching can condition tis sues to go into extreme M during common movement.

So, what constitutes an extreme range of motion

Any position that puts your muscles outside of a normal range of motion. he important thing to know is that every one s normal M is different. ouldn t stretching extend your normal M ossi ly, ut here s the key f you don t have the strength or movement uality to hold these positions, that leads to soft tissue injuries that lead people to start stretch ing in the frst place. hat s a ad cycle to get into.

hat may make sense, ut what do you do a out those aches and pains ork on mo ility and strength.

First, let s talk a out the difference etween mo ility and exi ility. hey re related, ut there s a distinction Mo ility is a out how well you move while exi ility is

a out your M from a static position.

t s like the difference etween picking something up off the ground mo ility versus standing still and touch ing your toes exi ility . ou likely pick things up all the time ut pro a ly don t touch your toes much.

Mo ility work is individual, and do ens of ooks have een written on the su ject, rec ommend “ ain Free y ete

goscue , and while anything write shouldn t e taken as medical advice, ll just say that lots of issues see stem from poor shoulder and or hip movement.

ere are two easy tests you can do to check your asic mo ility. All you need is a wall.

Hip es

• Stand with your ack against a wall.

• ake a step forward.

• ush your utt ack to the wall and keep it there.

• Are your knees ent more than 15 20 degrees

Shoulder es

• Stand with your ack to a wall and touch it with your utt, upper ack, and the ack of your head if possi le. f you can t, simply keep your eyes straight ahead.

• Maintain that 3 point wall contact reach forward, making your arms as long as you can. ull your shoulder lades ack against the wall. Are your el ows ent f you answered yes to either of those uestions you may need some mo ility work.

n my next article you ll learn a few mo ility exercis es we do for your hips and shoulders.

Mitch Rothbardt is owner and head trainer at Castro alley i ness Reach him i h any ues ions a he do par i h Penny and Puppy almos e ery af ernoon or a i ch@ Cas ro alley i ness com

Accommodations at Work: Asking for Help

By Jagmeet Kaur Sangha SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

onsider the following

o you use closed caption ing while watching a video

o you often opt for the eleva tor when there are stair options also availa le

o you rely on prescription eyeglasses

hese are all different types of simple accommodations that are commonly used or seen. erhaps you haven t thought of it efore, ut you pro a ly use an accommodation somewhere in your daily work life as well may e you enlarge the si e of your computer s text to make it easier to read, create calendar reminders for yourself, or take regular reaks from diffcult tasks.

ithin the workplace, it s important for companies to rec ogni e and offer different types of accommodations in order to create inclusive and supportive environments. hen employ

ers are mindful of the diverse needs and pref erences of their workforce, they ensure that everyone can

participate fully and comfort a ly in the work they are doing. eurodivergent individuals, such as those with autism, A , dyslexia, and other neurological differences, have uni ue learning styles and strengths that can e har nessed effectively through the personali ed approaches that accommodations can offer them. mployers can use this information to increase the workplace well eing and productivity of their neurodi verse teams.

ere are a few simple ac commodation strategies to im plement in the workplace or, uite frankly, in any setting rovide information in multiple formats e.g., written, audio, video . his allows

neurodivergent individuals to access content in ways that est suit their cognitive prefer ences and a ilities.

Make reasona le allowanc es for exi le deadlines and self paced learning. mple menting some exi ility here can reduce stress and anxiety for neurodivergent individuals who may struggle with rigid timelines.

reate environments that are sensitive to sensory needs. onsidering factors such as lighting, noise levels, smells, and availa le physical space can make a signifcant difference for individuals with sensory processing differences.

ecogni e and value the uni ue strengths of neurodiver gent individuals. onsidering how those with neurological differences can aid in the areas of creativity and pro lem solv ing leads to greater inclusion and diversity of thought, which typically leads to more dynam ic solutions.

Stay curious and ask more uestions. ow does your em ployee, student, or child learn est, and how often do they ask for help hese patterns can show you ways to est accommodate their learning and productivity style.

Accommodation helps to promote our authentic a ilities. Sometimes we just need a little help to get to the fnish line and when we recognize and provide the necessary support, we remove arriers that might hinder someone s progress and allow them to excel in their pursuits.

Jagmeet Kaur Sangha is a oard cer ifed eha ior na lys ho li es in Cas ro alley Her or aniza ion eha ior Pi o Consul in par ners i h or aniza ions o cul i a e neuro inclusi e en ironmen s that understand brain-based differences and promo e men al ell ein or more infroma ion isi her e si e eha iorpi o com

Now is NOT the Time to Be Vacationing in Maui

Dear Editor,

According to authorities, the death toll of the Maui wildfres rose to 111, after crews scoured 3 of the urned out area. ffcials are expecting the num er to clim as they continue searching. cnn.com 0 .1 .23 his makes the town of Lahaina in Maui the deadliest S wildfre in over 100 years surpassing the 201 amp Fire in A, which destroyed the town of aradise and killed 5 people. n c news.com 0 .1 .23

Although Maui offcials and residents have een asking tourists to stay away from the island during this time, surprisingly, their re uests have elicited hostile and disparaging remarks from many out of state commenters who appear to have taken offense. erhaps the reasons for asking tourists to stay away needed further clarifcation and explanation ould the fact that toxic gases and particles from melted plastic, urned cars, electrical wiring, treated wood, household ha ardous waste, and paints L A , , A help dissuade these vacationers “ hen de ris or dust is stirred up, ha ard ous particles enter the air and can e easily reathed in y people. a ardous and or carcinogenic chemicals can contaminate water supplies. ther o vious ha ards include roken glass, downed power lines, and leaking gas lines. Buildings deemed structurally safe can still have ha ardous pollutants enter via doors, windows, and other portals thus making them unsafe. p s.org 0 .1 .23

here are now thousands of affected residents who are struggling to fnd housing. hey, along with the emergency response personnel, need places to stay. he local hotels, B B s, and other rentals are trying to meet those needs y providing accommodations. acationers staying in these places would reduce the availa ility of housing to those who need it the most. civil eat.org 0 .11.23 and ketv.com 0 .1 .23

For those people who still insist on vacationing in the areas near Lahaina and are justifying it y claiming they are supporting its tourist industry, the o vious uestion is... hat type of tourist goes to a disaster area for vacation and swims snorkels in the waters that emergency response crews just recovered dead odies from yahoo.com news hawaii woman shocked tourists ack 0 .1 .23 f you are a le to help, please make monetary donations to reputa le organi ations that are helping directly on the ground. f not, at least help remind friends and family to not vacation there until further notice. f the situation was reversed, we would want the same consideration, kindness, and support shown to us y others.

–Aileen Chong-Jeung, Castro Valley

Residents Should be More Receptive to Cityhood

t was pretty apparent at the MA meeting presentation of the A housing plan that residents of astro alley don t like eing dictated to y Alameda ounty or alifor nia. t makes me elieve that residents should e a lot more receptive to cityhood and the idea of self determina tion. May e if we were in control of our own permitting processes we would have etter control of what gets permit ted and what does not. e may not e a le to completely stop A ut would think we could shape the outcome.

–Joe Lamberti, Castro Valley

A ’S A S E C he important thin to no is that everyone’s normal ran e o motion is di erent.

Don’t a e Verbal Shot and eave e ore or e ins r. a er’s etter

Dear Editor,

hy are some people putting so much effort into fnding something nefarious about those of us who are merely studying the new LAFCO report on incorporating the unincorporated Eden areas of Alameda County? Yes, we are guilty of questioning the fgures and ensuring that the people of astro alley have accurate information when or if asked to vote. We should prepare if the state, in its infnite lack of wisdom, decides that unincorporated areas in California should no longer exist.

“Just move” is your best response to people who care about the decisions that impact our community. I draw the line at bullying people into silence. Suppose others know a better way to protect astro alley as we know it today. want to hear from them. We are all learning as we go.

I have lived in this community for over 50 years. I watched this town change it is not the same astro alley. Some changes were good; others lack good planning. Local control is not perfect, but it certainly gives the community a local voice. How many of you can trek down to an afternoon meeting in Oakland? Financially naive, we are not. These very decisions impact all our lives. The choice ultimately is that of the voters. We only endeavor to provide researched information that provides the pluses but protects against the minuses.

This community loses so much money. All funds that we would consider local funds go into the county budget. All the federal funds that went to cities during Covid went to the county. f you think astro alley will get an e ual share of monies sent back from the state and federal government, let me know, I am listening.

Consider this; we were the group that held a public town hall. We advertised the town hall in the Forum. Does it look like we are hiding? Some of you left before the breakout sessions. Next time, stay and participate. Don’t take your verbal shot and leave before the real work begins. Yes, Mister we did notice that you left. You should note that others who expressed your same concerns remained and participated. Open dialogue is the purest form of democracy. At a minimum, open dialogue consists of two parts: talking and listening to the other person.

–Linda Tangren, Castro Valley

Does ot epresent ost en

o e or ot to e Sho ld Castro Valley ncorporate

Dear Editor,

I was deeply intrigued by Peter Hauer’s letter titled, “Hollywood Ignores Human Nature”; he possessed divine-like insight into women’s fantasies and desires. How many women did he interview to confdently state, “most women do not fantasi e about being strong, brave, athletic, and resourceful”? When I read eter s article to my wife she replied, “ e don t fantasi e about those things; we are those things.” She’s right. Women must be strong and brave to work, play, and live in a country that, only within the last 50 years, declared they had equal rights to men and continues to pay them less than men for the same job.

Peter also spoke in broad brush strokes about men and their desires. His comments do not represent “most” men as he believes. I am attracted to my wife precisely because she is stronger and smarter than me. She has a graduate degree, is a thriving small business owner, and the breadwinner for our family. She also formed a human person inside her body, pushed said human out of her body, then kept said human alive with her body. If that is not strength, I’m not sure what is.

f eter doesn t like movies with female heroes, that s fne. Don’t watch them. Just don’t assume that your preference is somehow indicative of all human nature. As for me, I hope there are more movies with female heroes so my daughters know that women can be, and are, heroes.

–Calvin

Sodestrom, Castro Valley

Please Practice Proper Disposal o o r rash

Dear Editor,

At the onset of the Pandemic, I started walking from my home several times a week. I walk up Center Street to Paradise Knoll (past Creekside Middle School), through Earl Warren Park to Crow Canyon Rd., up to Cull Canyon (past Canyon Middle School), through Cull Canyon Park and return via the same route. I noticed so much trash on this route that I also started picking up: everything plastic, cans and other trash. Plastic is especially bad for the environment, and I always picture it making its way to the Bay and ending up in the belly of a dead whale.

Dear Editor,

o e or not to e hat is the uestion Should astro alley incorporate e at astro alley ity are trying to answer that question. The answer right now is not clear, but it’s critical for the future of our community. We are taking an honest, objective look based on facts and data. We are not interested in knee-jerk reactions from either the pro or anti side. This question is too important for simple answers. LAFCO has given us a starting point, ut they are the frst to say that their initial estimates need a lot of work. If you want to help with this issue, we want you. Sign up on our website (www.castrovalleycity.com), visit us at the Fall Festival on Septem er and 10, and let s fgure out the best future for our wonderful community.

–Gary Howard, Castro Valley

Are e Dissatisfed ith C rrent evel o Co nty

Dear Editor,

Surrounding cities such as Hayward, San Leandro, Fremont, and Oakland have business parks, manufacturing and large retail shopping areas which contribute to these cities’ tax base and reduce taxes the residents have to pay. astro alley is a “bedroom community” and is largely built up. We have no space for signifcant new usiness development which means that we, the residents (renters and home owners) would be responsible for many of the taxes needed to support city services.

he Birkson raft eport on cityhood estimates it would cost us an extra $7 million to support our existing level of government services. Frank Mellon, who has many years of experience in local government as an East Bay MUD director, estimates that becoming a city would cost us an extra $14 million per year in taxes.

Reading Peter Hauer’s letter in the Forum was like reading an essay from the 1950’s, or even an episode of Archie Bunker. it was flled with sexist presumptions, overreaching ideas, and ironic concerns. Mr. Hauer doesn’t understand that many of the action flms he talked a out have een created y ueer people not for sexual adulation, but allegories of self-empowerment. All super heroes have a queer aspect to them that ALL people can identify with. Also, what no one ever says is that often bad movies make less money, which is important. Why is Barbie doing well? It is a great commentary on the expectations of women. Ironman made money because it was good, Black Panther made money because it was good (and they had messages as well). It is unfortunate that people like Mr. Hauer continue to believe in old misguided ideas which perpetuate sexual stereotypes. It is also important that the word masculine with Mr. Hauer means strong, rave or athletic. hat is not the defnition of masculine. oman can be beautiful and brave, beautiful and strong. “Woke” means empathy for others and understanding their experience. Yes, as a white cisgender male I am “woke.” White men have been ruling the better part of the world for most of the last 500 years. We have not done a very good job, between climate problems, poisoning our waters, discriminating against women and people of color etc. Let’s not even get started on Boy Scouts, banking schemes and bailouts, priests, policemen, etc. It is time we share the stage with everyone, this is the best way to address fairness and e uity. ith everyone s voices we all eneft. t s not a out sexual roles or old ideas of masculine or feminine. Those have proven to be false and inaccurate and there are thousands of years where other cultures do not have these strict rules of masculine/feminine like Eskimos, American Indians, Indonesians, Aboriginal tribes, etc. It was once again white men who decided these were not “appropriate.”

–Stephen Altbaum, Castro Valley

Yesterday, I picked up more trash than any other day for the past 3 years. At the end of my walk, I had a bag full of plastic bottles, cans, and other assorted trash. I sense that this increase may be due to the opening of the school year.

If you care about our community and the environment, please practice, and reinforce with your families the proper disposal of all trash. It doesn’t belong on our streets.

–Carolyn Darcey, Castro Valley

A more useful way to appreciate the cost of cityhood is to reali e that right now, as an unincorporated part of Alameda ounty, our government services are eing su sidi ed y the County to the tune of 7 to 14 million dollars a year. Are we really so dissatisfed with our current level of ounty provided services that we would want to pay an extra 7 to 14 million dollars a year for the same services? Or even more for expanded services?

–Steve Rosenberg, Castro Valley

SC PE by Salom © 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.

A ES arch 1 to April 19 A relaxed mood early in the week could give way to high-temperature disputes. The Aries Lamb should resist being pulled into heated quarrels that could really singe your wool.

A S April 0 ay 0 Satisfy that practical obligation frst, then feel free to indulge in your creative endeavors. Also, check for hidden or overlooked areas where repairs might be long overdue.

E ay 1 to ne 0 Home is still the Twins’ major focus this week, but outside matters begin to take on added importance, especially those involving possible career moves. Stay alert for signs of change.

CA CE ne 1 ly A travel plan might need to undergo some considerable adjustments because of unexpected changes. Keep an open mind and let the facts guide you on how you want to handle this.

E ly A st Playing cat and mouse with a matter you’ve been avoiding wastes time, energy and, most importantly, an opportunity. Ask someone with experience to help you get started.

V A . Sept. A shift in policy might not please you, but before you put up a “no go” wall of resistance, examine the circumstances. You might be pleasantly surprised at what you fnd.

A Sept. ct. Yesterday’s critiques about your methods might have already evolved into today’s praise for your achievements. Good for you. Now go on and continue to build on your credibility.

SC P ct. ov. 1 An occasional temperamental fare-up might occur, as you continue to help get things back to normal. Stay with it. You should soon get some idea of where to take things next.

SA A S ov. Dec. 1 A negative reaction to what you believe was a well-deserved request might mean that you need to reconsider your position and make changes accordingly.

CAP C Dec. an. 19 There’s always room for someone new at the Sea Goat’s table. The someone new for this week could bring a message you’ve been waiting a long time to hear.

A A S an. 0 Feb. 18 A pile-on of personal matters this week might seem too overwhelming to deal with, but handling them on a one-by-one basis could have you out from under it by the weekend.

P SCES Feb. 19 arch 0 A friend might need your good advice regarding a matter. Be supportive, but unless you can be absolutely sure you have all the facts, also be careful about any suggestions you’re asked to

r. a er’s etter is Filled ith Se ist Pres mptions

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

Extreme Garcia Baseball

Our Athletes of the Week are Extreme Garcia, a 16U travel baseball team out of Castro Valley.

Managed and Coached by Alex Garcia, the team took First place on July 23 in The Bay Area Tournament Series (B.A.T.S) Wood Bat Baseball league. They went 135-2 in the regular season then went undefeated in the playoffs during the semifnals and Championship game. Winning 6-0 in

Festival Chamber

continued from front page were on “Team Red Wine” or “Team White Wine” to be eligible to win a bottle of one of Kitson Wines varietals.

Chamber Executive Director Gary Slate told the Forum the August 23-29 promotion for a $25 gift card, which will be good for any Chamber business, is just as exciting.

“All you have to do is post a photo from a past Castro Valley Fall Fest or take a video of what you are looking forward to at this year’s Fall Fest,” Slate said. “Then tag the Chamber Castro Valley-Eden Area Chamber of Commerce in a Facebook or Instagram post and use #CVFallFest to get entered into the drawing.”

the semifnals and 10 1 in the hampionship game.

Pictured (left to right): Brady Montgomery, Coach Steve Montgomery, Jordan Catap, Easten May-Fanene, Jimmy Massey, Paul Funderburk, Thirdy Catap, Owen Siedel, Ethan Stark, Gilbert Siedel, Ky’Lenn Smith, Jeffrey Chan, Manager/Coach Alex Garcia, Blake Larkin, Kai Mollat, Alex Alejandre-Rosas, Jorge Benavidez.

The Matt Wilhite Team is proud to sponsor Athletes of the Week

Extreme Garcia

For the last promotion between August 30 and September 6, residents are encouraged to post a picture or a mention of what they will wear to the Fall Festival and use #CVFallFest on social media for a chance at a $25 gift card.

The Fall Festival and promotions are just one way the Chamber has changed over the past year. In the past 12 months, the group has opened an offcial head uarters in the Ashland neighborhood on East 14th Street near 160th Avenue, hired Spanish-speaking staff, offered business-related assistance programs, and added regular Lunch and Learn sessions on topics for small businesses such as insurance, marketing, and employee safety.

Regular chamber mixers are now held at exciting venues, including Twining Vines, Pinoys, JP’s Restaurant, and tomorrow’s mixer at Genghix Asian Fusion restaurant.

The Chamber has also made a special effort to celebrate member businesses opening, such as Pinoys, Pampas, and the recent Beard Papa’s in the Marketplace.

“Really being able to connect with shop owners and help small businesses succeed is one of the main reasons I wanted to be a part of the Chamber,” Slate told the Forum. “Seeing new businesses come to town has been exciting, and it’s exciting to see the community support these new openings.”

Father and Son ‘Great Catches’

r ady o race 8th rade st dent Colin allace and his dad ames allace ca ht fve Dorados on Colin’s frst deep sea fshin trip in Cabo San cas e ico on A st 10th in the Sea o Corte . Fantastic trip Con ratlations on yo r reat Catches ’ Colin and ames ave a reat Catch’ yo ’d li e to share Send a photo and in o by email to fles or or m mail.com

Phil Celebrates 93rd Birthday!

Phil eri defnitely is a man ho ill b rn o t and not r st o t. n A st 1 he t rned 9 years yo n by startin his day at the Castro Valley o r Fitness here he as reeted by m ltiple posters anno ncin his bi event. Phil aith lly reets everyone three days a ee ith a smile and a ind ord appy irthday Phil

And, of course, the Chamber has expanded its large-venue events, including the Spring Festival in Ashland in May, the return of the Light Parade along Castro Valley Boulevard in November, and next month’s Fall Festival.

Visit the Chamber website, edenareachamber.com, for more details.

ambo is a 2 year old Husky mix wildly looking for his forever home. Rambo is a energetic, goof ball always looking for attention. Rambo would do well in a home with teens and up, and would love to go on adventures. To adopt contact Hayward Animal shelter: 510-293-7200.

i i is a 1 year old Shepherd/Husky seeking adventure and loves be the center of attention. Luigi loves to play keep away with toys and enjoys the game of chase. To adopt Luigi, please contact Hayward Animal shelter: 510-293-7200.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRUCE D. JOHNSON