Spark a Love For Reading
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
MAC MEETING
Tenants Start Moving In: Crescent Grove Housing
By Mike McGuire CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Tenants started moving into the new Crescent Grove apartments on Ruby Street off A Street in Castro Valley last week, ending a multi-year fight over the best use for a piece of land left over from a freeway that was never built.
Staff with the nonprofit developers Eden Housing welcomed the residents into their new homes with several different orientations. They included snacks and lunch, as well as meeting neighbors and touring the new, gleaming 72-unit apartment building.
All of the units are affordable for people with modest to low incomes, and while some moved from older and sometimes rundown housing, some moved directly from being homeless to having an apartment of their own, according to Eden staffers helping people move in. Some residents were delighted as the building’s features were described in gatherings and tours that started in the community room.
“Let’s all be good neighbors for each other,” said Eden’s Malissa Vizard as she laid out a few ground rules for residents. “Eden will be,” she added.
According to Eden’s website, the development consists of studio, 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom units aimed at households earning 20 percent to 60 percent of the area median income. One apartment is set aside for an on-site community manager.
Some units are specifically set aside for veterans, recently homeless families and individuals, and people with disabilities.
The units are all-electric, using no gas, and all appliances are Energy Star-rated. They come with central air conditioning and heating, refrigerators, electric cooktops, stoves, ranges, and dishwashers. The four-story buildings have three stairways and a pair of elevators.
There are trash and recycling chutes on each floor, along with a green waste contained, so residents don’t have to go outdoors in bad weather to cans outside.
The building’s large laundry room was a big hit on the tour for new residents.
Michele Garay of Eden received appreciative murmurs when she described some of its up-to-date features.
“There’s an app that will tell you when a machine is available,” she told the group, “And also when your laundry is done.”
see CRESCENT on page 7
A Begrudging Approval to CV Car Wash
By Amy Sylvestri CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
The Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) gave a begrudging approval to a plan for a proposed car wash to be developed on the former lumberyard site at the western end of Castro Valley Boulevard.
The Splash Brothers was given the go-ahead to demolish the existing lumberyard buildings on the 1.35-acre site at 2495 Castro Valley Boulevard. But the MAC reiterated that a car wash is perhaps not the most ideal use for such a
prominent location in Castro Valley. Last month, the MAC told Splash Brothers owners to modify their proposal with a mural and other features to make it more visually appealing, and they returned with the current plan for another chance in front of the MAC. The real estate brokers behind the sale of the property said that a full 50 percent of those interested in buying the spot were car washes and others were storage facilities or contractors’ yards, so some dream development for the site see MAC on page 11
Former CVUSD Board Member
Barbieri Dies at 88
By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
John Barbieri, a longtime Castro Valley Unified School District Board member and local businessman, died last week at the age of 88.
Barbieri is survived by his wife, Emily, with whom he recently celebrated 70 years of marriage. All five of their children and two of their grandchildren graduated from Castro Valley schools. Barbieri’s private practice included serving as COO and co-owner of Barbieri’s Financial Consultant and as an appraiser.
see BARBIERI on page 11
Front entrance to the Crescent Grove apartments at 22447 Ruby Street in Castro Valley, which welcomed their first residents on Tuesday, January 7.
PHOTO BY MIKE McGUIRE
Longtime CVUSD Board member John Barbieri died last week at the age 88
Castro Valley Weather January 15 -
Former Afterschool Teacher in CV Charged with Molestation
By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
A former afterschool teacher in Castro Valley was arrested and is waiting for his day in court to face felony charges of lewd acts with an 11-year-old girl at Stanton Elementary School in the fall of 2023.
charges later this month. He is currently out on bail. Alameda County District Attorney’s office is handling the case.
Alameda County Sheriff’s Department arrested Eduardo Lopez-Robles (27) on December 18, 2024, for allegedly touching the girl on multiple occasions while he was an employee of PlayCV. The non-profit organization provides enrichment classes and activities to Castro Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) campuses.
Lopez-Robles first appeared in court on January 6 and is expected to face felony
PlayCV said it alerted parents to the situation shortly after it received allegations of inappropriate behavior by a staff member on November 22, 2023. While he was not directly identified in the letter, PlayCV put Lopez-Robles on administrative leave and notified law enforcement and other appropriate authorities. PlayCV Executive Director Amy Ramos said the non-profit would continue cooperating with law enforcement throughout the investigation.
“If the allegation proves to be true, it would be a profound violation of the trust we placed in this former staff member to ensure the safety and well-be-
ing of our students,” Ramos said in a second letter to parents on December 22. “We understand that this situation may be unsettling for our community, and we want to assure you that we are taking every step necessary to ensure the continued safety of all our students.”
PlayCV rules state they maintain a low adult-to-student ratio to ensure that staff are never alone with children outside the presence of other adults.
Ramos added that to ensure the safety of all students, PlayCV conducts thorough and ongoing background checks for all staff members, provides regular staff safety training, and has reporting processes in place for any concerns.
While PlayCV’s after-school see TEACHER on page 3
CV Man Arrested for Trying to Break into Stanford Accelerator
A 46-year-old man from Castro Valley was arrested last Sunday, January 5, after he tried to break into the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. According to the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office, he appeared in court for the first time last week to face the crime.
Around 8:30 p.m., deputies received a report of a suspicious person with bolt cutters outside the facility—originally named the Stanford Linear Accelerator Center—on Sand Hill Road. Deputies report they saw Ronald Simpson of
Castro Valley running toward Interstate 280, about a half mile away.
Deputies sent a Sheriff’s Office K-9 dog to help canvass the 426-acre property and found Simpson in some bushes nearby. Investigators later found numerous burglary tools and a damaged security fence.
Simpson was arrested for attempted burglary, possession of burglary tools, resisting arrest, vandalism, and two outstanding warrants related to stolen vehicles. He was booked into the Maguire Correctional Facil-
ity in Redwood City, a Sheriff’s Office spokesperson said. No motive was given for the attempted break-in. Stanford University and the U.S. Department of Energy run the site. It includes a 2-mile linear accelerator for research purposes.
Anyone with information about the intrusion or the man arrested is asked to contact Deputy Collins at tcollins1@ smcgov.org or at 650-363-4911. Anonymous tips can also be left with the sheriff’s office at 800-547-2700.
Marketplace Shops Open Last Week with Lighting Ceremony
By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
After three years of construction and disruption, the building formerly known as the Knudsen Building was renamed Marketplace Shops, complete with a lighting ceremony last Thursday.
Following a champagne toast, Craig Semmelmeyer of Main Street Property Services led a countdown from 10, ending with light emerging from the hand-crafted fixtures for the first time.
Local contractors Bonetti Plumbing, Air Synergy, Golden
Wire Electric JP Silva Construction, Arrow Signs, and Torres Hardscape, along with Architect Studio, the building architect, The Chamber of Commerce, and members of the public were on hand to see the finishing touches completed.
“On behalf of the [owners] Castro Valley Investment Group, we are truly grateful for the craftsmanship and resilience of our design and construction partners in overcoming the challenges of such a complex project,” Semmelmeyer said. The Marketplace Shop
Plethos’ Soiree Saturday
Plethos Productions is hosting its 8th Annual Season Announcement Soiree and Fammy Awards ceremony Saturday, January 18 at 7pm at JP’s Restaurant and Bar. Looking for a last minute gift? Look no further than giving the experiential gift of a lively night full of live singing, dancing, and comedy performances.. Get ready to party with a fun night full of games, prizes, and karaoke plus their illustrious and coveted Fammy Awards. Seating is limited, so run don’t walk to plethos.org and score your soiree tickets now!
section, adjacent to the Castro Valley Marketplace building, includes Knudsen’s Ice Creamery, Unincorporated Clothiers, State Farm, RE/MAX Accord, and CycleBar.
Semmelmeyer said the Castro Valley Investment Group, which owns the property, is looking forward to signing leases with additional restaurants and other merchants later this year to bring more vitality to the dining scene in Downtown Castro Valley.
“Projects such as the Marketplace Shops help create the place that makes a downtown special,” Semmelmeyer said.
Sheriff’s Report
COMPILED BY MICHAEL SINGER • CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Stolen Property
Tuesday, January 7: At 11:03 p.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested a 38-year-old Castro Valley man on suspicion of petty theft, possessing stolen property, illegal narcotics, methamphetamine drugs, and impersonating someone else.
The man was spotted leaving a business in the Castro Village Shopping Center with unpaid merchandise. Deputies caught up with him and discovered his drugs. The man was taken into custody.
Drug Paraphernalia
Monday, January 6: At 9:50 a.m., a 33-year-old man with
Teacher: Charged
continued from previous page program is independently operated, Superintendent Parvin Ahmadi said she is committed to ensuring that the district offers the children, families, and those impacted the support they need.
“As an educator, parent, and grandparent, I understand the deep concern that follows learning someone trusted to work with children has been arrested for inappropriate conduct with a child,” Superintendent Ahmadi told the Forum. I encourage all members of our school community to remind their children, indeed all children, that their safety and personal boundaries must be respected by others.”
no permanent residence was arrested on suspicion of possessing illegal drug paraphernalia. Deputies stopped the man for questioning outside a business on Redwood Road near Castro Valley Boulevard when they discovered his stash. The man was taken into custody.
Busted for Tear Gas and Blocking Police
Sunday, January 12: At 7:56 p.m., deputies arrested a 38-year-old man from Castro Valley on suspicion of illegal possession of tear gas and interfering with deputies trying to perform their duties. The
man was in the parking lot of a grocery store on Castro Valley Boulevard near Redwood Road when he encountered deputies and began harassing them. The man was taken into custody.
Joy Ride Ends in Arrest
Sunday, January 12: At 3:25 a.m., a 59-year-old man without a permanent residence was arrested on suspicion of driving a stolen vehicle and possessing a stolen vehicle. Deputies pulled the man over in a grocery store parking lot on Castro Valley Boulevard near Redwood Road. The man was handcuffed and taken into custody.
CVSan Holiday Schedule
Castro Valley Sanitary District (CVSan) offices will be closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, January 20th. Please call (510) 506-5821 for sewer emergencies. For information regarding CVSan services and programs, visit cvsan.org.Recycling, organics,
and garbage collection services will occur as scheduled by Alameda County Industries (ACI). Please call ACI at (510) 483-1400 with billing and service questions or visit Alameda County Industries’ website at: alamedacountyindustries.com/ CVSan.
PHOTO COURTESY OF OF SANDY MARTINEZ, EMERALD GATE STUDIOS
Looking for a Night of Laughs?
By Terry Liebowitz SPECIAL TO THE FORUM
Looking for a fun-filled Saturday night out? Standup comic David Studebaker performs at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts, Saturday, January 25, at 7:30pm. David describes himself as a comedian, author, host, and diaper-changer! He delights audiences with his special brand of comedy, blending music, personal stories, and pop culture into his interactive shows. “My goal is to take my audience out of their everyday worries and create our own little joyful, carefree realm—to just have fun and party for the night.”
David’s comedy can be heard on Sirius XM Radio in regular rotation and his new comedy special “The Oracle of Dry Bar” is available now on the Dry Bar Comedy stream-
David Studebaker
ing network. He has been featured on Fox, ABC, and the in the SF Chronicle and is a popular entertainer for corporate gigs for Facebook, Twitter, and Re/Max and many others. As a director, David won Best Director at the Oregon Documentary Film Festival for his hit docu-series David’s Ark, which has amassed millions of
views on TikTok. As an author, David published his debut novel, a laugh-out-loud mystery, Lone Star Lance in 2020. The sequel comes out later this year. David lives with his wife, two boys and two dogs in Los Angeles.
James D. Creviston opens for David. James is a Navy veteran, writer, filmmaker, and host of the Clean Comedy Podcast. He is known for his clean, self-deprecating style. He has worked as a freelance screenwriter for such shows as Leathal Weapon, The Bachelor and The Bachelorette. James also lives in Los Angeles. This evening of fun, fresh comedy is presented by the Castro Valley Arts Foundation in their 2024-25 Series. For tickets: cvartsfoundation.org or call: 510-889-8961. Free Parking. Handicap accommodations. 19501 Redwood Road, Castro Valley.
Something to Cheer About
Redwood Christian High School Cheerleaders were recently honored by the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF). Coach Emily Driggers’ Eagle Cheerleaders have been selected as the Fall 2024 Varsity Spirit Cheer Team of the Season. Erika Busch of CIF Sports made the notification and is coordinating the announcement on social media. Coach Driggers response to the notification was simply “Wow! Thank you so much! What an honor!”
Women Making a Difference Awards Honor Exceptional East Bay Women
Three exceptional women will be honored for their professional achievements and contributions to positive change in the East Bay with the new Women Making a Difference Awards.
Kaiser Permanente will present the awards in collaboration with the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau during the East Bay Women’s Conference (EBWC) on Tuesday, March 4, 2025. Nominations opened last Monday, January 6.
Award categories include:
• Innovation Award: Honors a woman who has significantly contributed to her field through innovative solutions that improve the well-being of people, places, opportunities, or conditions in the East Bay. She achieves measurable results and utilizes creative problem-solving to implement cutting-edge strategies and approaches.
• Leadership and Empowerment Award: Recognizes a woman who has shown outstanding leadership and a commitment to empowering others, leading to a lasting impact that improves the well-being of people, places, opportunities, or conditions in the East Bay.
She successfully collaborates with diverse groups of people, creates inclusive teams, and exhibits superior leadership qualities.
• Rising Star Award: Will be presented to a woman who has demonstrated exceptional early-career accomplishments, including leadership prowess, clear initiative and a commitment to continuous learning.
She is guided by a focused vision to positively impact people, places, opportunities, or conditions in the East Bay.
“Supporting health includes addressing the social, environmental and economic factors that shape well-being,” says
Deneen Wohlford, Public Affairs Director of Kaiser Permanente’s Diablo Service Area. “By honoring women who are driving meaningful change in our community, we hope to spotlight their impactful work and inspire others to do the same.”
Celebrating its 20th year in 2025, the EBWC remains the only conference of its kind in San Francisco’s East Bay that provides women with opportunities to come together and participate in programs of personal and professional enrichment and development. The addition of the Women Making a Difference awards marks a new tradition of recognizing local women for their achievements that benefit the whole community.
For more about the Women Making a Difference Awards including how to apply, please visit: www.walnut-creek.com/ ebwc2025-awards.
We all know reading is vital for a child’s development. But let’s be honest, in a world brimming with screens and instant entertainment, getting kids excited about turning the pages of a book can feel like a Herculean task. Don’t worry, you’re not alone! The good news is, that fostering a love for reading isn’t about forcing them to sit still for hours – it’s about creating a positive and engaging experience. Let’s explore some fun and practical ways to get your kids more interested in reading, turning those reluctant readers into bookworms in no time.
First and foremost, make reading a family affair. Kids, especially younger ones, often mimic what they see their parents doing. If they see you enjoying a book, they’re far more likely to want to join in. Set aside some time each week where everyone, even teenagers (yes, even them!), reads alongside each other. It doesn’t have to be a silent affair! Discuss what you’re reading, share funny moments, or rec-
ommend books to each other. Create a cozy reading nook in your home with comfortable seating, good lighting, and maybe even a fun blanket. The idea is to make it a place that feels inviting and special, not a punishment zone. Secondly, let choice be your guide. Don’t force your child to read books you think they should be reading. Instead, let them explore different genres and authors. Take them to the library, encourage them to browse the shelves, and let them pick what sparks their interest. Graphic novels, comics, and magazines are all great options for reluctant readers. They can be less daunting and can often bridge the gap to traditional novels. Don’t dismiss these formats as “not real reading”— they are still encouraging literacy and building a foundation for deeper reading in the future. Think of it as the stepping stones towards more complex texts. The main thing is that they are enjoying the actual act of reading and building this habit.
CV Library Math Festival
Visit the Castro Valley Library for an afternoon of play and problem-solving at the Julia Robinson Mathematics Festival this Saturday, January 18, from 2 to 4pm. At the festival, children and families will have the opportunity to explore a variety of fun, hands-on math puzzles and games.
Activities are designed for children (and adults) of all ages and backgrounds, so everyone is welcome. Drop in and drop out whenever you’d like. Whether you stay for one puzzle or join us for the entire festival, we’re looking forward to seeing you for a day of joyful math!
It’s also important to remember that reading doesn’t only have to take place from a traditional bound book. There are many ways to get kids engaged with the written word in daily life. Encourage them to read menus in restaurants, road signs on car journeys, or even the instructions on a board game. Making reading relevant to everyday activities shows its importance and helps them understand that literacy is a skill needed in many aspects of life.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, remain patient and positive. Don’t pressure your child if they are facing difficulties in reading, or feel they are not reading at the same pace as their friends. Each child develops at their own speed, and negative experiences can easily deter them further. Focus on celebrating their efforts, no matter how small. Praise their accomplishments and be their biggest cheerleader. The goal is to foster a lifelong love of reading, so try to make it a positive and enjoyable experience, focusing on the fun rather than the pressure. Ultimately, instilling a love for reading is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time, patience, and a willingness to embrace different approaches. By creating a supportive and engaging environment, you can help your children discover the joy and wonders that books hold. So, grab a book, snuggle up, and prepare for a fantastic literary adventure together.
Register for CV Reads
Castro Valley Reads is an annual literary event that asks Castro Valley residents to read and discuss the same book. It builds community by encouraging a thoughtful exchange of ideas and celebrates the joy of reading together.
Castro Valley Reads is facilitated by the Castro Valley Library and generously funded by the Friends of the Castro Valley Library.
Registration for the 8th annual Castro Valley Reads began last week, and the special kick-off event takes place on Sunday, February 2 at 2 pm. For 2025, Castro Valley Reads will be celebrating Mexican-American history see REGISTER on back page
Our Lady of Grace Catholic School
REAL ESTATE GALLERY REAL ESTATE GALLERY
By Carl Medford,
Increasing Numbers of Homeowners
Are Staying Put
By Carl Medford, CRS
Hardly a week goes by without a call from someone asking us if we are interested in selling our home. Whether a flipper looking to score an off-market deal or a local Realtor searching for potential listings, our response to them is always the same: “NO, this is our forever house and we plan on leaving here in a box.”
Truth is, my wife and I had been looking for a home like ours for close to 40 years and so, when the opportunity finally arose, we jumped on it. Given the location of our home, the amount of money we have invested in it to make it fit our lifestyle, our extremely low mortgage rate and proximity to other family members, it is no small chance we firmly fit into the category of home-
Robert Jones Associates
owners who, according to Redfin’s 01/07/25 news post by Dana Anderson declare “They will never sell.”
The Redfin article goes on to delineate potential sellers by strata, stating, “More than one-third (34%) of U.S. homeowners say they’ll never sell their home, according to a recent Redfin-commissioned survey. Another 27% say they wouldn’t consider selling for at least 10 years. Roughly one-quarter (24%) plan to sell in five to 10 years, while just 8% plan to sell in three to five years and 7% within the next three years.
Broken down by generation, older homeowners are more likely than their younger counterparts to say they’ll never sell. More than two of every
five (43%) baby boomer homeowners say they’ll never sell, compared to 34% of Gen X owners and 28% of millennial/Gen Z owners.”
Data suggests that a significant percentage of homeowners, working hard over the years to eliminate their mortgage, have either attained that goal or are close enough that, in their minds, it makes no sense to sell. Using the analogy of a car, many, having paid off their vehicle, choose to continue driving it instead of opting to sell and buy a new vehicle with a new set of payments. It appears the same logic applies to sellers. In fact, looking at the demographic who would be most likely to have liquidated their mortgage payments – Boomers (those born between 19461964) – Redfin’s latest data reveals that 43% state they will never sell their existing home.
While the national average for moving has increased from 7 years to 13.2 years, for some … it is “never.”
Carl Medford is a licensed Realtor with Keller Williams Realty and a licensed general contractor. This article is sponsored by the Central County Marketing Association.
Crescent: There Had Been 6,800 Applicants for 71 Spaces in the Apartments
continued from front page
A pleasant surprise for the residents was finding out that they all had an electronic credit for their first few loads of laundry.
There is secure bicycle storage that can be accessed 24/7, shared bicycles, and a community e-car that can be rented by the hour. A courtyard containing play structures, a garden, a picnic area, a dog run, and a garden is still under construction but will open soon.
Wood reused from trees cut down to build the project is used throughout the building. Some community groups opposed building the housing, arguing instead to leave the area natural with some 100 mature trees left standing. They were also concerned about the fate of a stretch of San Lorenzo Creek that runs along the edge of the property.
On December 3 of last year, Eden Housing turned over
the land near the creek to the Lisjan people (also known as the Ohlone tribe), the area’s original inhabitants. They also announced the wood would be reused in the building, which has been in the form of wood plates around each apartment number, several wood ceilings, and a mosaic that will be completed soon.
A pathway for bicycles and pedestrians passes along the creek near the building, which runs from Cull Canyon Regional Recreation Area to the Bay and connects Castro Valley with several nearby communities.
Caltrans took the site of the housing decades ago to build the proposed I-238 freeway through downtown Hayward. That project was abandoned, making land available for affordable housing under the Surplus Land Act. Eden Housing saw it as an ideal site for housing, as it was on transit
lines and near shopping and job opportunities in Castro Valley and Hayward.
Community activists had, however, called for building the housing instead on any of several nearby vacant pieces of land left over from the freeway project. Alameda County Supervisors decided, however, in 2022 to build the housing on Ruby Street.
Originally called the Ruby Street Apartments, construction began last October.
According to Darian Williams of Eden Housing, speaking at the December 3 event, there had been 6,800 applicants for the 71 spaces in the apartments (other than the manager’s apartment).
Some 60 percent of the apartment site has been preserved as open space, some of which is open to the public, he said. None of that space had been available to the public previously, Williams added.
TECHNOLOGY AND FEATURES: Michelle Garay (facing camera) of Eden Housing shows new Crescent Grove residents how to use some of the more advanced features in washers in the building’s laundry room.
PHOTO BY MIKE McGUIRE
You can run a classified ad for a little as $35 a week. Your ad runs in both of our newspapers, the Castro Valley Forum on Wednesday and the San Leandro Times on Thursday. You can also save by placing your ad on our website at castrovalleyforum.com or sanleandrotimes.com. We’ll call you for your credit or debit card info for payment. To place an ad by phone call Patrick Vadnais at 510-614-1560, Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
CONCRETE SERVICE
S.L. CONCRETE SERVICE Driveways, Sidewalks, Stamped Concrete, Retaining Walls, Tree and Drain Service. Lic.#982202. 510856-8937.
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
Fence wobbly? Call Randy's Fence Reinforcement and save thousands! 510-706-6189.
FENCES/DECKS
*SPECIALIZING IN WOOD FENCES, DECKS & RETAINING WALLS. Replace or repair, paved walkways, yard cleaning, tree work, brush removal (fire prevention), garage cleaning/ debris removal. Insured & Bonded #8189. Jerry 510-4102427.
GARDENING
JAIME’S GARDENING Maintenance, Trimming, Cleanups, Hauling, Sprinkler Repair/ Timers. FREE Estimates. Insured. 510-299-9583
*BEAUTYGARDEN LANDSCAPING Design - Construction - Maintenance. Cleanups, New Lawn, Artificial Grass, Irrigation, Patios, Pathways, Brick, Stone, Concrete Fence/ Decks. Free Estimates! Lic.#925130. 510-691-8852. www.beautygardenlandscaping.com
G G ARDENING ARDENING /T /T REE REE S S ERVICE ERVICE
NAVA'SCOMPLETE LANDSCAPING: Mowing, trees, cleanup, hauling, FREE estimates. 510 512-5857.
HANDYMAN SERVICE
HANDYMAN 35 Years. Senior Discounts. Native. All Phases. In and Outside Work. Tom 510-427-0455
IT’S TOTALLYFINISHED CONSTRUCTION. Specializing in ADU’s & Garage Conversions, Kitchen/ Bath Remodels. Floor Care: Vinyl & Laminate (no hardwood). Lic.#583113. Call Martin Sharp 510-384-8041.
HAULING SERVICE
HAULING: Small and Big Jobs. Furniture, Concrete, Wood, Trash, Metal, Demolition. Also house inside/ outside cleanups. 510-715-1578.
HELP WANTED
DSP Staff wanted to work with D.D. adults in a Care Home in San Leandro working with disabled adults & their needs. Will train. AM, PM and W/E shifts available + overnight. Salary + Benefits. Call 510-638-8070 or email: mr2125@att.net.ry
Sr. Project Eng open’g @ AirProtein (San Leandro, CA) for manag’g eng’g projects; capital proposals; tech docs; test’g; commissioning facilitation. Need master ’s in chem/ bio/ mechanical eng’g or related + 2 yrs exp w/eng’g proj mgmt;capital proj; vendor procurm’t mgmt; tech docs incl P&ID/PFD/SOP, vendor qual’s, desgn stds; production plan’g coord, FAT; statistical analysis; food proc’g; Visio/Autodad/MS Proj/ Lean Six Sigma. Travel not req’d. No telecommut’g. Salary range: $115k-150k. Apply @ HR@airprotein.com referencing “Sr.PE”
HOPE YOU FIND just the job you are looking for!
TheCity of San Leandro is currently accepting online applications for:
Maintenance Aide –
$22.05-26.80/hourly
Police OfficerAcademy Graduate and Lateral –
$9,502-$12,733/monthly
Police Recruit Trainee and Academy Attendee –$6,863-$8,342/monthly
Police Service Technician I –$5,378-$6,537/monthly
Public Safety DispatcherEntry and Laterals –$7,945-$9,658/monthly
For more detailed information, please visit www.sanleandro.org EOE
MISC. FOR SALE
8 Valentine cards 1920-1930’s. Mechanical, pop ups, lacy, unique. $5 each. 510-538-1765.
Medline aluminum folding Transport Chair, blue frame,black seat. Call/ text Janet 510-470-2834.
Cable snow chains, new, never used.
Z-Chain #Z-547. $40. Call Steve 510537-0326.
Beautiful traditional Santa Claus
3’x3’ painting. $50. Call/ text 510654-1951.
French provincial: (bedroom) 2 dressers & 2 night stands. 510-8951555.
NEW Bedside Commoode (never used) $50. Call 10-895-1555.
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)
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
RENTALS/RV SPACES
RV/ Trailer space in San Leandro and Oakland& Hayward. $950/ month. Call 510-481-9901.
SERVICES
HANDYMAN & CONTRACTORS
You can run a classified ad for a little as $35 a week. Your ad runs inboth of our newspapers, the Castro Valley Forum on Wednesday and the San LeandroTimes on Thursday. You can also save $ by placing your ad on our website at castrovalleyforum.com or sanleandrotimes.com. We’ll call you for your credit or debit card info for payment. To place an ad by phone call PatrickVadnais at 510-614-1560, Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
TREE SERVICE
*ACAREFULTREE SERVICE. Certified. Arborist. Lic.#694067. Trimming, Removals. FREE Estimates Bonded. Call 510-581-7377.
YOUR INFO
Are you interested in buying or selling a home or property?
Would you like the help of a Professional Agent? For assistance call ...
RENTALS
LANDLORDS – Advertise your units! Avacancy day is money lost forever ... R. Bowman
Advertise your Home for rent in the San Leandro Times & Castro Valley Forum DON’T LET ANOTHER WEEK SLIP BY! – Avacancy day is money lost forever –To place an ad call 510-614-1558
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.
‘Trusted Contact Person’: Financial Tool To Protect Seniors from Financial Scams
Q:My 90 year old father has a substantial brokerage account and likes to manage it himself. Yet I worry that he could easily fall victim to financial scams. Is there anything I can do to protect him?
By Gene L. Osofsky, Esq. SPECIAL TO THE FORUM
A:Yes, there may be. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”), which regulates firms and professionals selling securities in the United States, has activated two new rules to protect senior investors: One rule now requires member brokers to make reasonable efforts to ask investor clients, age 65 years
and older, to designate a Trusted Contact Person” (“TCP”) whom the broker may contact if the broker reasonably believes that financial exploitation has occurred or may be attempted, or where the investor shows signs of dementia or diminished capacity. Where exploitation is suspected, a companion rule authorizes the broker to place a temporary hold on the disbursements of funds from the customer’s account, pending further investigation. These two rules are the result of a growing realization that financial exploitation of seniors is a very real problem, not only for the senior investors, but also for the brokerage
firms when financial abuse is suspected. Previously, there were issues of privacy which prevented the broker from contacting family members when suspicious activity was detected, and prior FINRA rules prevented brokerage firms from halting suspected transactions without risking liability. The scope of the problem became apparent to FINRA after it placed into service its Securities Helpline for Seniors in April 2015: during its first two years of its operation, it fielded more than 8,600 calls seeking help and recovered more than $4.3 million for seniors. For Senior Helpline, call 1-844574-3577.
Hayward Senior Softball
The Hayward Area Recreation District’s senior softball program is gearing up for the 2025 season. This will be the 34th year of the league. The initial meeting is set for 9:30am on January 16, at the San Felipe Center, 2058 D Street in Hayward. The league will begin play on March 18 and end in September. Games will be played at Alden E. Oliver Fields on Hesperian Boulevard in Hayward. The league is open to men and women over 50 years of age. Because of the lack of players at the 50s level
over the last few years, we are reducing the league from three to two. One league will be for 50 and above, and the second will be for 70 and above. Tryouts for new players will take place on January 28, February 4, and February 11. They will be at Centennial Field in Hayward starting at 9:30. The draft for the new season will take place on February 25 at San Felipe. Team practices will take place March 4, 5, 10, and 11 at Centennial Field. The time for team practices is to be
For now, the new rules only apply to new accounts or to accounts that are updated, but not yet to existing accounts. That said, it is anticipated that the rule will soon apply, as well, to existing accounts even without an update. These rules protect not only seniors, but also younger persons aged 18 and older whom the broker reasonably believes have a mental or physical impairment which renders such individuals unable to protect their own interest. I sense from your question that your father might take offense if you asked permission to monitor his accounts. The nice thing about the new FINRA rules is that the request will come from the broker, rather than from you, and to that extent may be more pal-
senior investors.
Where the brokerage firm suspects financial exploitation, and initiates a hold on disbursements, it must immediately begin an investigation to determine whether the hold may be extended. The initial hold is limited to 15 days, but may be extended an additional 10 days if there is sufficient cause. A hold can be further extended by court order where the facts so warrant.
Another option is to consider elder protection monitoring through services such as EverSafe. This account monitoring service sends alerts when suspicious activity is detected showing unusual withdrawals, deposits, changes in spending patterns, changes in passwords and identity theft. EverSafe also enables subscribers to designate trusted advocates to receive these alerts, and can assist with creating a recovery plan in the event of loss. Monitoring is on a paid subscription basis, and customers of some brokerage firms can qualify for a discount, e.g. Fidelity customers. For more go to www.EverSafe.com or call 1-888-575-3837.
Gene L. Osofsky is an elder law and estate planning attorney who has been helping East Bay families for over 25 years with Trusts, Powers of Attorney, Wills, Probate, Medi-Cal Planning, and related matters. Contact him by email at Gene@LawyerForSeniors.
Get Help With Medical Costs
Do you need help with your medical costs? Medi-Cal is a government program that pays for health and medical care for adults aged 65+ or disabled individuals who have low income and limited resources. If eligible, Medi-Cal can help pay for ambulance services, dental care, doctor visits, hospice care, hospital and nursing home care, medical equipment and more. Castro Valley Library will hold a free program next Wednesday, January 22, from 11am to 12:30pm. You’ll learn about: Medi-Cal eligibility for specific programs serving individuals 65 and older, and for individuals with disabilities; Home and Community Based Services benefits covered by Medi-Cal; Medi-Cal Recovery rules and exemptions, and more. The program is free and no reservations are required. The Library is located at 3600 Norbridge Avenue and is wheel chair accessible.
Letters must include the writer’s name, address, phone number, and must be under 300 words. Letters can be edited for clarity or length. Letters are the views of the author and not necessarily those of the newspaper or its advertisers. Submit letter online: mycvforum.com/letters-submission-form
Los Angeles Fires Could Be Us!
By luck we got the rain this year. Next year we could be burned out. What can we do to AVOID this catastrophe?
Our East Bay Parks District backed us by Cal Fire, have the answer. Fire Season after Fire Season they preach to us the necessity of clearing the fire prone undergrowth and downed trees and branches. Yet, they fail to practice what they preach. Our Castro Valley Community is in jeopardy – a fire ready to happen; just like Santa Rosa and now Los Angeles.
Is there a remedy? Absolutely! Have East Bay Parks District clear the area along Ten Hills Trail down to the golf course and Lake Chabot, of what they call tinder dry undergrowth. They talk about how this would keep any fire manageable and prevent it from setting fire to our homes, beside the forest, which as
we know, can spread through the whole community. Yes, they label it as “Fire Prevention”, but nothing happens in our area. Instead, our East Bay Parks District tries to assure us of how valuable they are at putting fires out. Well, sadly we saw again how futile an argument that is – Santa Ana winds, air tankers, helicopters can’t fly. Water shortages, dry fire hydrants. Luckily for Los Angeles all the billions of dollars of equipment in our State lined up there but Mother Nature prevailed. I implore our Politicians to wake up. Your constituents depend on you, to use your Political Power to insist that East Bay Parks District do what they acknowledge is vital –Preventive Work. Prevent the forest fires from reaching our homes by keeping that fire prone underbrush in check: “Forest Fire Prevention”.
–John Sullivan, Castro Valley
MAC: Car Wash Approval with Caveat
continued from front page was unlikely to be forthcoming. In the past, the MAC turned down an application from Chick-fil-A to operate at the former lumberyard location.
“As a gateway property, we have got to do the right thing (for the location),” said MAC member Tojo Thomas. “But how long are we going to wait?”
MAC Chair Chuck Moore proposed waiting until the Alameda County Public Works Agency had more solid plans for the future of the Norbridge/ Strobridge “Burger Island” area adjacent to the lumberyard, including traffic control information, but a motion to continue the discussion didn’t pass. Then, a motion to approve the car wash with a caveat to remove two parking spaces also didn’t pass.
This would’ve meant the matter was kicked up to the county for approval without any MAC recommendation, but the MAC decided to revote and recommended approval pending a review by Public Works.
“I think this is a reasonable and decent project,” said MAC vice-chair Bill Mulgrew. “But I don’t think it is the best project. I can’t support it, and I can’t argue against it.”
Splash Brothers operates a car wash on Hesperian Boulevard in San Leandro, and
they have another location in Colorado. The owners plan to open the Castro Valley site as self-service only and offer a monthly rate for unlimited car washes.
Also at Monday night’s meeting, the MAC heard from county planners regarding possible grants from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC) regarding “transit-oriented communities” – there are two in the unincorporated area: at the Castro Valley and Bay Fair BART stations.
The MTC is in the midst of enacting “Plan Bay Area 2050” which has a goal of increasing housing supply, increasing density of business, and prioritizing public transit in areas one-half mile from transit hubs such as the BART stations. They will be awarding grants to communities which plan to do so, and the county is in the midst of deciding how or even whether to actively pursue those funds.
The county has applied for the funding, but would have to be in compliance with the MTC’s policies by 2026 to receive it, and the degree to which the local communities comply is now being discussed. They are potentially eligible for over $10 million in annual funds and will be notified in March as to whether they have gotten the grants.
County staff is now in the process of meeting with local MACs, the Planning Commis-
Passing of Former EBRPD Board Director Doug Siden
Doug Siden, an Alameda resident who served as East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD) Board Director of Ward 4 between 1993 and 2017, passed away peacefully on January 7, 2025.
EBRPD General Manager Sabrina Landreth made the following statement about Siden’s passing: “Doug Siden was a champion for civil rights and a dogged advocate for access, and social and environmental justice. His efforts to support opening thousands of acres of shoreline and parks within the East Bay Regional Parks system is part of his legacy. He will be deeply missed.”
His extraordinary advocacy efforts for East Bay Regional
Parks included ensuring access for all, supporting development of the Tidewater Boating Center at Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline in Oakland, extending the SF Bay Trail in Oakland and San Leandro, securing funding to preserve Alameda’s Robert W. Crown Beach from tidal erosion, and protecting and restoring Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline in San Leandro. He also led successful campaigns for bond measures CC and WW, which continue to fund much-needed Regional Parks and community improvement projects.
Siden’s lifelong dedication to youth education, social justice, and inclusivity began
in the 1960s with his service as a minister, and marching alongside civil rights leaders Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., in Alabama on the historic walk from Selma to the State Capitol in Montgomery and with César Chávez on behalf of better treatment for farm workers. He was a founding board member of the MLK Jr. Freedom Center in Oakland and chaired numerous conservation and community organizations.
In June 2022, EBRPD’s Visitor Center at Crab Cove in Alameda was renamed in Siden’s honor. The flags at EBRPD properties will be flown at half-mast in his honor.
Barbieri: Remembered for Forty-Six
Years of Contributions to Castro Valley
sion, and the Board of Supervisors and have not committed to any new transit-oriented development yet. Any changes to zoning would become part of the Castro Valley General Plan.
New MAC member Dan Davini wondered whether higher density housing at the Castro Valley BART station would make a parking structure necessary. Others questioned building up BART at the same time ridership is declining and the system is considered unsafe by some.
“If we further diminish parking at BART, we are going to destroy it,” said Davini.
Moore lamented that funding is essentially taxpayers’ money that is being put through a red-tape-laden process by the MTC and said the new policies aren’t very clear or applicable to a town like Castro Valley with its own infrastructure concerns.
“There are a lot more questions than answers,” said Moore. “If I was in San Francisco, I’d sign up for this in a heartbeat, but this is Castro Valley. Does this really benefit our community”
Finally, the MAC also continued an item regarding renovating Alameda County Fire Department Stations No. 25 at 22306 San Miguel Drive because of a clerical error in agendizing it for the meeting. It will now be discussed at a meeting later this month.
continued from front page Barbieri received his bachelor’s in business from the University of San Francisco in 1959. He served eight years in the U.S. Marine Corps until his discharge in 1962. He taught math, management, and economics at Chabot College for 14 years and held a lifetime teaching credential and a master’s degree in governance. His community service included serving on the Castro Valley Unified School District Board of Education for twenty-six years, including
several terms as its president. Before being elected as a CVUSD Board Member, Barbieri served on the Personnel Commission for the District for twenty years. Barbieri also served on the Alameda School Board Association and the County’s Oversight Redevelopment Committee.
“Mr. Barbieri will always be remembered for his contributions and service for forty-six years to the Castro Valley community and CVUSD,” CVUSD Superintendent Parvin Ahmadi said. “His ad-
NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS
Education,
vocacy for students at the local and state level will continue to benefit the students in Castro Valley for years to come.”
The superintendent added that Barbieri’s leadership on the Board of Education for many years improved opportunities and access to high-quality programs for all students.
“We are forever grateful to have had the opportunity to know Mr. Barbieri, who modeled for all of us what it means to be a caring leader who puts others above himself,” Superintendent Ahmadi said.
Francisco Campus admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Name and/or Title: Jonathan Railton – Regional Director of Operations Address: 100 Challenger Road, Suite 100, Ridgefield Park, NJ. 07660 Telephone No.: 908-674-8088
Education Inc. dba OneSchool GlobalSan Francisco Campus is a private school serving students in grades 3 through 12 from the areas of Castro Valley, Hayward, and San Leandro. Located in Castro Valley, OneSchool Global- San Francisco Campus admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.
DR #3828724 • January 17, 2024
Anchor
Anchor
Inc, dba OneSchool Global—San
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Our Athlete of the Week is David Rogers, a Senior at Redwood Christian High School. On December 18, MaxPreps– an online publication that covers high school teams from throughout the USA in public, private, charter, parochial and Christian schools– released the names of the Top 100 High School Scorers in the United States.
For the first time in the fifty-one-year history of Redwood Christian High Schools (RCHS) Athletics, one of their athletes was listed, Senior David Rogers was listed 25th
averaging 27.7 points per game, leading the North Coast Section of the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF).
Coach Andrew Castaneda states that “what makes David special is his ability to shoot 60% from the field without taking opportunities away from his teammates.”
David has also been named to the RCHS 2024-25 Homecoming Court as Senior Prince, and will be doing double duty both on the court next Friday night as member of the Court and the team.
The Matt Wilhite Team is proud to sponsor Athlete of the Week
David Rogers
Register: CV Reads
continued from page 5 and culture with a work of contemporary fiction called The House of Broken Angels by Luis Alberto Urrea.
The plot is simple enough. In his final days, beloved and ailing patriarch Miguel Angel de La Cruz, affectionately called Big Angel, has summoned his entire clan for one last legendary birthday party. But as the party approaches, his mother, nearly one hundred, dies, transforming the weekend into a farewell doubleheader.
The Kick-Off Event is Sunday, February 2 from 2 pm to 3 pm (no registration required). You’ll learn more about the book and be able to pick up a free copy, while supplies last. You’ll also hear the beautiful music of Cascada de Flores. Please register for a discussion group online before you arrive.
Discussion group registration begins today. You can register for a Library-facilitated group or you can form your own group with three or more people. To learn more and to register, visit aclibrary.org/ castro-valley-reads.
Through the beginning of April, in addition to discussion groups, the library will have a great line up of programs related to the themes of the book. And on Friday, April 11, featured author Luis Alberto Urrea will be joining in person at the Douglas Morrisson Theatre for the Finale event.
Gabe and Lucas Piedade caught a striped bass on December 23 while aboard the Hooked Up sport fishing boat. Lucas is in 3rd grade at Chabot and Gabe is in 6th grade at Creekside. Dad and Grandpa Piedade were also there for the catch. Have a “Great Catch” you’d like to share? Please send email to: filesforforum@gmail.com.
Redwood Christian High School Announces 2024-25 Homecoming Court
Last Friday night, the Redwood Christian High School Homecoming Celebration was held in the Bruce D. Johnson Gymnasium on the Redwood Christian Middle School and High School Campus. Assistant Principal Dr. Evan Barnhart served as Event Coordinator and Master of Ceremonies announcing the 2024-25 Homecoming Court: Queen Sophia Sautter and King Tyrone Snipes; Senior Princesses Amaya Rivas and Mary Azraei, and Senior Princes Ethan Zambrano and David Rogers; Junior Princess Emma Mittelstedt and Junior Prince Joshua Chulata; Sophomore Princess Julianna De Leon and Sophomore Prince Isaac Enos; Freshman Princess Abigail Valle and Freshman Prince Lukas Vicente. The theme for the evening was “Glowfest” and a choice of entrees were provided by Bobcha SF Food Truck based out of San Jose. Redwood Chris-
choose students of great character to represent them. Each of the honorees are excellent members of the RCS community - they are servant hearted leaders who place others before themselves. They are well deserving of this honor!”
The 2024-25 Homecoming Ceremonies will be held on Friday, January 17 in the Bruce D. Johnson Gymnasium on the Redwood Christian Middle School and High School campus at 1000 Paseo Grande, San Lorenzo. This is the 50th Homecoming Ceremonies for Redwood Christian High School.
on Instagram) personally made all
of the desserts for the evening. The evening included multiple activities and competitions.
Redwood Christian parents played key roles throughout the evening.
Dr. Barnhart stated “One thing I love about Redwood students is that they continually
The Junior Varsity Boys open the three-game day at 3:30pm; Varsity Girls 5pm and Varsity Boys at 7:30pm following the Homecoming Ceremonies at 6:30 p.m. where Queen Sophia and King Tyrone and the rest of the Homecoming Court will be formally introduced and celebrated. The community is invited to attend.
tian High School parent Erica Marmolejo (@Good.E.SSS
Freshman Prince Lukas Vicente (from left to right), Freshman Princess Abigail Valle, Sophomore Prince Isaac Enos, Sophomore Princess Juliana De Leon, Senior Prince David Rogers, Senior Prince Ethan Zambrano, Homecoming King Tyrone Snipes, Homecoming Queen Sophia Sautter, Senior Princess Amaya Rivas, Senior Princess Mary Azraei, Junior Princess Emma Mittelstedt and Junior Prince Joshua Chulata.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CATHY BRESLOW/ BRESLOWIMAGING
PHOTO COURTESY OF AARON MACKLIN AT MACKLIN MEDIA