June 14, 2023

CASTRO VALLEY FORUM CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Redwood High School Graduates Celebrate Overcoming Adversities

By Alyssa Phillips SPECIAL

Graduating with an educational journey like no other, Redwood High School’s Class of 2023 faced and overcame great challenges throughout their high school careers. On May 31, these graduates were recognized for their accomplishments at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts.

Redwood Staff Speaker, Josh Wheeler, told of the adversities the graduates had faced and honored the strength it took to overcome them. He gave a message of adaptation and recognizing your own self-worth through conquering life’s unknowns.

“Nothing worthwhile comes easy; where there is opportunity, there are opportunity costs. So let the world give you its best because I know you can take it,” said Wheeler.

For the frst time ever, the school granted its ‘Keep on Rising’ award to four graduates to encourage their future endeavors of attending college, vocational programs,

and joining our community’s workforce. Seniors Ignacio Alejandro Valverde Pino,

Hakim Craig Jackson, Saroyah Diamond Monroe, and Mia Mariella Pineda-Rivas were

awarded based on extraordinary academic performance, school leadership, and impactful contributions to the Redwood community. Tina and John Sachs, Gary Howard and Shirley Valdivia, and Dan and Kristy Willits presented the awards.

Celebrating the students’ hard work included prominent school fgures, including Castro Valley Unifed School District (CVUSD) Superintendent Parvin Ahmadi and members of the Board of Trustees. History teacher, Matt Hassebrock, hosted ten Student Speakers that highlighted the perseverance of themselves and their fellow graduates and the love and support from friends, family, and staff that allowed them to reach this achievement. Also earning their degrees were nine seniors of the Castro Valley Virtual Academy.

Like other graduates this year, Redwood High’s Class of 2023 saw immense challenges at the beginning of their high school careers due to the see GRADUATES on page 7

MAC Blasts Project

By Amy Sylvestri CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

The Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) had some harsh words at their Monday night meeting for the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), criticizing the utility’s plan to transport tons of dredged soil through town on trucks.

In order to replace old pipes, EBMUD plans to move 17,000 cubic yards of trench soil from a site on Miller Road in the Castro Valley Hills to the Oyster Bay Regional Shoreline in San Leandro.

This would entail approximately 150 trucks making round trips down Redwood Road and through Castro Valley daily for the duration of the project, set for 9:00 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. weekdays from July 10 through August 8.

see MAC on page 11

DA Seeks Reduced Charges in CV Murder

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

A Castro Valley man convicted of murdering his friend could see his sentence changed to involuntary manslaughter and time served cut to 4 years instead of 50 years to life, the Alameda County District Attorney’s offce said last week.

James Joseph Vega is currently serving time without bail at the Santa Rita Jail in Dublin for the April 2020 murder of 18-year-old Jarin Purvis.

Purvis, Vega, and other friends were playing with Vega’s gun and smoking marijuana in the bedroom of an apartment on the 3400 block of Redwood Court in Castro Valley, according to police reports.

The gun jammed when Vega attempted to test-fre it. Vega, Purvis, and a group of friends examined the gun. Another man took it apart and cleaned it. Witnesses said Vega and Purvis were playing with the gun and laughing when the gun accidentally fred. Purvis was shot in the face and killed.

Initial police intelligence suggested that Purvis shot himself. Reports at the time called the self-inficted fatal wound “suspicious.” After further investigation, Vega provided a full confession and told police he did not realize the gun was loaded.

In November 2020, investigators charged Vega with murder with a special circumstance enhancement, which exposed him to a sentence of 50 years to life.

Based on the factual analysis of evidence in this case,

the Alameda County District Attorney’s offce says it will fle to amend the charges in the fatal shooting. Vega will now face involuntary manslaughter because of the amended complaint. He also faces charges related to carrying a concealed and loaded frearm.

Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price said she came to the decision because “there is no evidence of an argument, confict or animosity before this tragic incident took place.”

“This man did not inten-

tionally shoot his friend,” said District Attorney Price. “This was clearly a mistake. Mr. Vega admits that. Other witnesses agree. His behavior was inexcusably negligent, but this was an accident. While we deeply empathize with Mr. Purvis’ family and friends, James Joseph Vega should not, potentially, spend decades of his life behind bars for a tragic mistake.”

DA Price’s offce said that prosecutors met with Purvis’s family to explain the new charges.

Redwood High School graduate Mia Mariella PinedaRivas, one of four ‘Keep on Rising’ award recipients.

TO THE FORUM

Castro Valley Weather June 14 - June 18, 2023

CV Adult School Graduates Prove

It’s Never Too Late

One of the dignitaries visiting the Castro Valley Adult & Career Education (CVACE) graduation ceremony on June 7th turned to Assistant Principal Keith Nauman and said, “Is it always this emotional?” Mr. Nauman responded, “It sure is.”

There is something particularly inspiring about seeing adults reach their goals, many with their children in the audience proudly looking on and learning the example of resilience. CVACE honored eight students who had completed their GED, and 14 earned their high school diplomas at an inspiring commencement ceremony.

Maria Cornellier brought many in the audience to tears. She shared that she was not allowed to attend school as a child. When she arrived at the adult school, she could not read and had to count on her fngers he was so ashamed that she sat in the back with a hoodie on her head. With the love and encouragement of her frst teacher aresse g yen Maria began coming to the board to answer questions and elt pride in hersel or the frst time in her life. It took ten years, but Maria is now a high school graduate. She is on a

path to becoming an addiction counselor and will be honored by the California Adult Education Program Technical Assistance Program for her accomplishments.

Edel M Lopez-Cruz also inspired the crowd with his story as a GED graduate. When he came to this country at 15, his priority was work, not education. Now he is a proud graduate with a good job and a s pporti e fanc e e tal ed about what a special place CVACE is and how the caring

staff helped him academically and emotionally to fnd his inner strength to succeed. One graduate held her 3-month-old baby on her lap, wearing a tiny graduation cap. It was both adorable and motivating. Are you someone who didn’t fnish yo r ed cation and are ready for a new beginning or to be an example to your children? If you could use support to complete your high school diploma or GED, contact CVACE at (510) 8861000 or visit www.cvadult.org.

Make it a Summer of Skin Care

By Mike McGuire CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

As people head out for that beach, lake, or pool to get a nice healthy tan this summer and build up their body’s stores of Vitamin D while avoiding getting sunburned, dermatologists would like to help you improve those plans just a bit.

People can avoid sunburn entirely while unwittingly exposing themselves to skin cancer. Medical experts say that your body needs very little

sunlight to produce plenty of Vitamin D—and tans aren’t actually good for you.

Tans are evidence of damage to DNA in the skin, even if it looks great, says dermatologist Akhil Wadhera, M.D., who heads the Cancer Committee at Kaiser Permanente’s San Leandro and Fremont medical centers,

Skin cancer is the hidden danger of having fun in the sun, Wadhera said. If you use enough of it, Sunblock does a good job of blocking sunburn — but not all sunblocks guard

against the kind of ultraviolet radiation that gives you skin cancer.

Children are at the most risk, said Wadhera. Not only do children tend to get more sun exposure than adults, but they are more prone to the kind of skin damage that will later cause cancer. One blistering sunburn in a child is thought to double their risk of later developing skin cancer, while he said an adult would need to get f e o those or the same risk increase.

see SUMMER on page 4

Maria Cornellier and Edel M. Lopez-Cruz inspired the audience at the January 7 Castro Valley Adult & Career Education graduation ceremony.

CVHS student journalists have once again excelled in annual competitions, winning dozens of awards. See complete list of award winners at: mycvforum.com

CVHS Olympian Journalists Receive Dozens of Awards

By Matt Johanson SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Castro Valley High School student journalists who publish The Olympian newspaper and website have once again excelled in annual competitions, winning dozens of awards in writing, photography, video, and audio.

Olympian editors Olive Dooley, Drew Paxman, and Zoe Dorado led the pack, who combined for 19 awards, incl ding three frst place honors from California News Publishers Association.

Sherif’s Report

Compiled by Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Spousal Assault

Sunday, June 11: at 9:08 p.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested a 34-year-old man from Castro Valley on suspicion of spousal assault. The man was at a home on San Simeon Place near Castro Valley Boulevard when deputies arrived. Deputies took the man into custody. The victim was treated at the scene.

Stolen Property

Dooley, Olympian editor in chie too frst place in sports photography, earned two other CNPA honors in feature and news photography, and won the newspaper’s Hall of Fame and Editor-of-the-Year awards. A three-year veteran of CVHS journalism, Dooley plans to attend UC Irvine and study chemical engineering next fall.

“I’m really proud of all of the work that this class has done,” said Dooley. “I’m really grateful that we have been recognized for our work this year.”

orado won frst place in

the CNPA news photography division with an image she captured of an Indigenous ceremony on Alcatraz. She claimed another honor in enterprise news for an ambitious story about birth control titled “Trojans in Search of Condoms,” in addition to audio and video awards from CNPA and the Journalism Education Association of Northern California. Dorado will attend Pomona College to study English and public policy analysis.

Paxman created a new podcast called Trojan Horse which see OLYMPIAN on back page

Sunday, June 11: at 10:18 a.m., a 34-year-old man with no permanent residence was arrested on suspicion of possessing stolen property. Deputies caught up with the man in front of a business on Redwood Road near Castro Valley Boulevard after a store manager called about a theft. The man was also found to have a warrant issued for his arrest related to drug charges. Deputies took the man to Santa Rita Jail.

Elder Abuse

Saturday, June 10: at 3:50 p.m., deputies arrested a 52-yearold man on suspicion of elder abuse and violating the terms of a restraining order. The man was found within 100 feet of a home on Somerset Avenue near Betrose Court. Deputies took the man into custody. The victim was treated at the scene.

James and The Giant Peach Jr.

tagecra t lay rod ction camp presents oald ahl’s ames and the iant each r ’ campers in grades ha e een wor ing on their acting singing and dancing or these m sical per ormances t on y lethos rod ctions a non proft theater prod ction company ased in astro alley this wee per or mance arts co rse o ers ids rom all o er the comm nity the chance to learn play and per orm together

ith a wic edly t ne l score and a witty and charming oo this ad ent ro s m sical a o t co rage and sel dis co ery is per ect or ids ages

he whole comm nity is in ited this riday thro gh nday ne and at pm to watch these yo ng per ormers show o their acting chops in this ho r rendition o a classic at eirloom ast ay astro alley et yo r tic ets today at plethos org

N R D a in alloran a sa o onist orn and raised in astro alle as wor ed across t e a rea s

HARD Receives Four Awards

ayward Area ecreation and ar istrict A is pro d to anno nce that it has won o r awards rom the ali ornia Association o ecreation and ar is tricts A he awards were presented at the ann al A con erence which was held in ahoe ali ornia on ay he competiti e awards

that A recei ed were tstanding oard em er rs arol A ereira tstanding omm nity rga ni ation artner i rcio as e ealth enter t standing omm nity and mar or the ayward l nge and tstanding eno ated acility or ennedy ar e are honored to recei e these awards rom A

Summer: Avoid Sun Damage

said A oard o i rector resident ic atcher t’s a testament to the hard wor and dedication o o r sta ol nteers and comm nity partners e are commit ted to pro iding high ality programs and acilities that enhance the ality o li e or o r residents and these awards are a alidation o that commitment he ayward Area ecre ation and ar istrict is an independent special se district created to pro ide par and recreation ser ices or o er residents r o nd aries encompass a s are mile area which incl des the ity o ayward and the nincorporated comm nities o astro alley an oren o Ashland herryland and air iew or more in ormation please isit ayward ec org

continued from page 2 e and aiser s ggest a oiding the s n entirely etween the pea ho rs o am to pm or see ing shade i yo m st e o tside wearing a hat and sing s n loc plenty o it e s ggests sing a o t an o nce to co er all exposed ody parts or a teaspoon per ody part m ch more than most people se he eyword to loo or on the s n loc ’s la el is road spectr m adhera said indicating protection against and A which ca ses s in cancer ometimes he said protection against A is mentioned specifcally i there is any adhera s ggests sing s n loc with an o at least t ca tions that research hasn’t confrmed additional protection rom higher s he sees three to o r million cases o s in cancer diagnosed in a year with melanoma ma ing p aro nd o those t melano ma ills eight to nine tho sand people a year a o t one a min te he other two inds are more easily treated elanoma is highly c ra le i ca ght early adhera said with a percent or higher f e year s r i al rate en i it’s metastasi ed new dr gs are m ch more e ecti e at stopping it than were treat ments e en a decade ago he said ne sho ld loo o t or an irreg lar shape with sometimes irreg lar orders m ltiple colors a diameter greater than millimeters a o t the si e o a pencil eraser changes in shape si e or color and a rand new lesion

A rays don’t e en get slowed down y clo ds e en i s n rn chances decrease so that one can e lly exposed to s in cancer on a clo dy day adhera said ar windows similarly loc t not A so they protect against s n rn t not s in cancer

This Morning, Wednesday, June 14

Coffee with a Cop Event

he Alameda o nty heri s fce will e a co host or a ree comm nity engagement e ent this morning rom to am at the annery itchen ap located astro alley l d he e ent is a chance or comm nity mem ers to meet their local heri s ep ties o er a ree c p o co ee e hope to see yo there

Thursday, June 15 & Saturday, June 17

Celebrate Juneteenth in Hayward

he city is hosting two cele rations with lac endors entertainment and the history o neteenth displayed thro gho t the e ents omorrow ne is a street party on and ain treet starting at pm here will e li e m sic a eer and wine garden a classic car show and n or ids hen on at rday ne ayward is sponsoring its ann al ssell ity neteenth ele ration he e ent starts at am and r ns till pm ehind ayward ity all on treet hec o t a l es and ospel m sic in honor o ayward’s ssell ity m sic heritage ore details at www neteenthhayward com

Thursday, June 15

Support Soroptomist, Order from Canyons BBQ pport oroptomist ast ay y ordering l nch or dinner dine in or o t or deli ered at anyons on ne th and se the romo ode All proceeds go to programs s pporting women and girls o training and ed cation reat ads and h s ands sons and neigh ors to an early ad’s ay meal or more in o contact onnie ert at onniemert gmail com or call

Saturday, June 17

Ken Martin Memorial Bocce Tournament he astro alley occe ro p will host its ann al en artin emorial occe o rnament at Ado e ar in astro alley this at rday ne he e ent will e sponsored y the eterans o oreign ars roceeds rom the to rnament will eneft the eorge ar hildren’s o se https georgemar org which oc ses on ality o li e and contin ity o care or children with illnesses that modern healthcare cannot yet c re or or those who ha e complex chronic medical conditions yo are interested in participating or ma ing a donation to this worthy organi ation email ara eterson at y ma an gmail com

Saturday, June 17

15th Annual Downtown Castro Valley Car Show on’t miss the th ann al downtown astro alley ar how presented y the otary l o astro alley this at rday ne rom noon to pm lease note the o le ard will e closed this day rom am to pm

Thursday, June 22

Castro Valley Chamber of Commerce June Mixer he astro alley ham er o ommerce will e hold ing their ixer on h rsday ne rom to pm at e eria olima ce ream and ro en og rt located at esperian l d an oren o ring a ra e pri e to promote yo r siness e hope to see yo there

Sunday, June 25

Jenny Lin Foundation Beneft Concert astro alley ased enny in o ndation is honored to e selected enefciary o the th iolin eneft on cert presented y er i iolin t dio remont he per ormance is sched led or nday ne at pm at the ate chi all omm nity chool o sic Arts at inn enter an Antonio ircle o ntain iew to s pport the o ndation’s decades o ser ices in promoting child sa ety and yo th m sic ed cation in the ay Area

The Rotary Club of Castro Valley Celebrating 70 Years of Service to Castro Valley 1953-2023

The Rotary Club of Castro Valley was chartered y otary nternational on ne otary is a glo al networ o million neigh ors friends, leaders, and problem-solvers in over local l s who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in o rsel es

or years astro alley otarians ha e supported the community with their commitment to er ice A o e el

Since 1983, Rotary has sponsored the Rowell Ranch Rodeo Parade, which features many community organizations, schools, local businesses, oats classic cars and marching ands otary also sponsors the Student Art & Essay Contest and honors the winners with a wagon in the arade

This outstanding community event draws participants and spectators from throughout the community with outstanding support from our sponsors and volunteers from Rotary and many community agencies and organi ations

Staring in 1993, Rotary hosted the Chili Cook-off to support the Parade, but this year, replaced the Cook-off with a BBQ, Axe & Beer event featuring axe throwing and corn hole competitions, booths for community organizations, a id’s play area and great

Annually, Rotary hosts a Christmas Party & Dinner for children served by social agencies and participates in the HARD and CV Outreach Adopt-a-Family programs and sponsors the annual Thanksgiving Lunch at the HARD Senior Center and participates in holiday themed gi eaways thro gho t the year

Other community events sponsored by Rotary include the Castro Valley Car Show, the Castro Valley Restaurant Walk, Texas Hold ‘em Poker Tournament ocials ixers incl ding eer astings or more in ormation go to www castro alleyrotary org

Spearheaded by Castro Valley Rotarian Obse Lubo (third from the left) in partnership with other Rotary l s otary raised o er to ild an oxygen generator at Nejo Hospital in Ethiopia (Breathing for Life Project) ensuring that all patients have access to oxygen which we ta e or granted ince mem ers ha e donated to he otary o ndation incl ding to the olio Plus campaign to eradicate polio worldwide, which the ill and elinda ates o ndation matches or Through the Wheelchair Foundation, the Club has s pported the worldwide distri tion o wheelchairs, giving the gift of mobility to thousands o people

During COVID, Rotary responded by providing iPads to seniors in care homes to communicate with loved ones, distributing food and medical supplies, recognizing our heroic First Responders, and hosting nationally nown spea ers on the iss es

n otary nded and ilt the ater and Meditation Garden at Eden Medical Center and in donated to help p rchase an exos eleton nit to assist stro e ictims

The Club also has worked on projects at the Abode Center, Castro Valley Center for the Arts, Ruby’s Place, Castro Valley Library, and other community locations he astro alley otary o ndation ann ally nds comm nity grants

ince comm nity and siness leaders have served as Club President including

• 1953-54

Jackson B. Hanley

• 1954-55

George W. Phillips

• 1959-60

Frank Selmecczki (Pete’s Hardware)

• 1965-66

Dick Bigelow

• 1968-69

Owen R. Smith

• 1976-77

Jess C. Spenser

• 1978-79

Red LaQuaglia

• 1978-79

Ray C. Lorge

• 1982-83/2021-22

Dwight Perry

• 1987-88

Fire Chief Bob Waberski

• 1989-90

CVUSD Supt. Robert Hagler

• 1990-91

Alan West

• 1995-96

Gayle Tully (1st women President)

• 1996-97

Jerome Blaha

• 1997-98/2008-09

Cliff Sherwood

• 2007-08

Richard Short

• 2010-11

Randy Vanderbilt

• 2014-15

Heidi Hausauer D.D.S

• 2017-18

CVUSD Supt. Jim Negri

• 2019-20

CVEAC Pres Todd Anglin

• 2020-21

CVUSD Trustee

Gary Howard

o th er ice is at the heart o otary he l annually supports he distri tion o ac pac s with school s pplies iteracy its or astro alley re chool

• Grants to support schools, student clubs, and community organi ations ocational ed cation s pport or den Area

• ponsorship o oy co t roop and nding and wor ing on agle co t pro ects

• Rotary Youth Speech Contest

• Sponsorship of Interact Clubs and sending students to amp A otary o th eadership Awards

The Rotary Club of Castro Valley meets on esday at pm at edwood anyon ol o rse or l nch and a spea er

For more information about Rotary and how to become a member, please go to www castro alleyrotary org or call resident hris arr at

REAL ESTATE GALLERY

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE REALITY

By Carl Medford, CRS Special to the Forum

Understanding Home Warranties

By Carl Medford, CRS Special to the Forum

Anew buyer, in their home a mere 3 months, called in distress. “Our dishwasher just broke,” they said, “it’s going to cost a ton – we were not anticipating any bills this early in our purchase. What do you recommend?” “Hang on a second,” I responded, “let me check on something.” I quickly opened their transaction folder on my phone o nd the fle was looking for and sent it to the buyer. “Check your email,” I replied, “I just sent you a copy of your home warranty – give them a call – they will handle it for you.”

In Alameda County, sellers frequently include a one-year home warranty with the sale. While buyers are given a copy of the policy in their closing documents, many forget and end up paying for issues that would have otherwise been covered.

ABANDONMENT FICTITIOUS

BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

FILE NUMBER. 576239

The following person has abandoned the use of the ctitious business name Eyebright Optometry, at 3550 Castro Valley Blvd., Castro alley a in lameda ounty. ull name of registrant is Mary Nguyen, at 3550 Castro Valley Blvd., Castro Valley Ca 94546.

he ictitious usiness

Name tatement

Eyebright Optometry, was led on 1 2 2 21in the county of lameda. riginal ile Number 2 . declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. registrant who declares as true information which he or she nows to be false is guilty of a crime . his statement was led with the ounty cler of lameda ounty on top right stamp date. N his ctitious name statement e pires ve years from the date it was led on in the o ce of the ounty ler . new ictitious

usiness Name tatement must be led prior to that date. he ling of this statement does not of itself authori e the use in this state of a ctitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal state or common law see ection 1 et se . P ode. his statement was led with the ounty ler ecorder of lameda ounty on

When buying a home that includes a home warranty, it is important to peruse the policy to understand how it works and what it covers. As an example, some programs include an initial re-keying of the home (highly recommended), meaning new owners need not pay for a locksmith. Extra key copies are usually included.

In most policies, basic coverage includes fans (ceiling, attic, whole house, exhaust), central vacuums, electrical systems, garage door openers, garbage disposals, heating systems, instant hot water heaters, built-in kitchen appliances (microwaves, ovens, ranges, cooktops, trash compactors), pest control, plumbing, limited roof coverage, smoke detectors, subterranean termite treatment, telephone wiring and water heaters. Like all policies, there are exclusions and some repairs (eg. central air conditioning, appliances, hot water heaters) have limits on the amount covered. Overall, however, most basic plans are quite extensive.

Upgraded plans cover more including smart

systems, enhanced slab leak coverage, etc. For those wanting more extensive coverage, it can be purchased for additional fees which vary depending on the coverage requested. Included in this category are refrigerators, washing machines and dryers, outdoor kitchens, septic systems, swimming pool equipment, well pumps and more.

I’ve personally used home warranties on numerous occasions. In one case, the range in one of our rentals stopped working. It was a 36” gas downdraft unit and there was literally only one option available – while very expensive, it was replaced by the home warranty company.

Home warranties are great: the irony is that many buyers never bother reading their policy and consequently do not know to call when problems arise.

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.

7385 Glenoaks Way, Dublin • Price: $949,000

Charming updated single-story home on a at lot w/beautiful & expansive green lawn space in Dublin’s Glenoaks neighborhood. Home boasts 3 beds, 2 baths and 1,680 sq. ft. of space to live and entertain. Darling curb appeal with a fresh coat of exterior paint, window shutters & beautiful lavender & white garden roses. Enter front door to quaint living room w/ replace, cook in the brand new permitted kitchen/ dining room combo or relax in the spacious Family room w/ replace and access to large backyard. 2 brand new permitted bathrooms w/Calcutta shower walls & waterproof oors! This 0.19 acre lot includes a backyard outdoor space w/gorgeous oak tree, expansive lawn & concrete patio. Put in a pool, add-on or put an ADU on the back half of the property - plenty of space to enjoy or convert! Add’l. perks: new SS appliances, luxury vinyl waterproof ooring, carpet, light xtures & paint! Garage w/space for 2 cars & laundry. Conveniently located to community parks, trails, San Ramon Golf Club, award-winning schools, shops, restaurants, BART and freeway access. Welcome to your new home!

Cathy Brent Team

Cathy Brent: 510-381-1065

Cathy@CathyBrent.com

DRE #01088138

www.cathybrent.com

510-333-9404 / kathi.townsend@BHHSDrysdale.com

Wayne Licsak: 510-303-7765 / wayne.licsak@BHHSDrysdale.com

/ DRE #01409032

/ DRE #01850870

Linda Neff: 510-557-9185 / linda@lindane .com / DRE #01495978

Kelly McCoy: 925-786-2681 / DRE #02095209

Laurie

Pfohl

Buying

DAVID S. WILHITE

PROFESSIONAL FULL SERVICE REALTOR SERVING CASTRO VALLEY AND SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES FOR OVER 40 YEARS

510-329-8984

Since 1984 DRE#00759835

By Buzz Bertolero The Dirt Gardener

My yellow Crookneck Squash grows about three to four inches long and then stops. The skin turns a darker color, and then they rot. They get lots of sun, and I’m watering daily. What am I doing wrong?

You have a vegetable disease called Blossom End Rot. Blossom End Rot is a common, non-parasitic disorder that attacks tomatoes, peppers, melons, pumpkins, squashes, and cucumbers. With melons, squashes, and cucumbers, the immature fruit rot like you described with tomatoes and peppers brownish, tan blotch develops at the bottom of the fruits. They won’t rot. They will mature and are edible. The application of high-nitrogen fertilizers that tie up the Calcium in the soil or a lack of Calcium is one cause. However, the primary reason is irregular watering and or wet soil erwatering is a signifcant problem with your plants. Blossom End Rot is problematical early on with squashes and

BUZZ BERTOLERO

THE

Overwatering Can Cause Plant Rot A

cucumbers, while melons, tomatoes, and peppers show up mid-season and beyond. Except for a brief period, the April and May temperatures have been cool. We have yet to see any ninety-degree days, which is atypical. So, daily water is not advisable in our clay soils. The watering frequency varies depending on soil type, drainage, and temperature. Squash, cucumbers. melons and peppers are shallow-rooted and like to be kept moist. Tomatoes and Eggplants are watered less often because of their deep roots. On average, you should have been watering e ery three to f e days o extend the days between watering and insulating the roots with a one to two-inch layer of mulch. Gardeners are learning how much mulch matters regarding water conservation, weed reduction, and root insulation from the direct sun. Our weather does ct ate rom week to week, so should your watering schedule. Each spring, you should mix Agricultural or Oyster Shell Lime into the soil along with the traditional soil amendments. This will provide the necessary Calcium.

DIRT

Q Q A

Our peach tree bears a lot of fruit; however, some will fall off before they ripen. Why is this occurring, and what do we do to prevent it?

A certain amount of fruit drop is customary with Peaches, Nectarines, Apples, Pears, and Plums. It’s called the ‘June Drop.’ The ‘June Drop’ is Mother Nature’s way of balancing the fruit load on the tree. It’s essential to supplement this by doing some additional hand thinning. With Apples and Pears, you must thin the fruit clusters down to two or three fruits. Also, I’d completely remove those clusters on the outer third of the branches to prevent the limbs from breaking from the weight of the maturing fruit. Peaches, Nectarines, Plums, and Apricots are thinned, leaving enough space between them for each fruit to develop without touching. The space should equal three to four times the size of the mature fruit. Also, you can have fruit maturing on both sides of a branch. Fruit tree thinning is essential to prevent limb breakage and improve fruit size and quality.

Kathi Townsend:

June Rotarians of the Month

At Rotary Club of Castro Valley meeting, last Tuesday, June 6, two-time past president and former District 5170 governor Dwight Perry surprised Randy Vanderbilt with one of three Rotarians of the Month Awards along with Dan Willits and Marco Jaramillo for their efforts in the Club’s recent BBQ, AXE and BREW event.

All three exemplifed going above and beyond the Rotary International’s Mission of “Service Above Self” Mission. Vanderbilt chaired the event and received outstanding support from Willits and Jaramillo.

Vanderbilt created the inaugural BBQ, AXE and BREW event on May 12 at the Rowell Ranch Rodeo grounds.

Vanderbilt tirelessly attended community meetings with HARD and other organizations with his team, resulting in a successful fund raiser that

was great fun for all the participants and created beautiful memories for Castro Valley and surrounding communities. The entire Club is looking forward to 2024 when Randy and his Team build on this year’s success.

Vanderbilt’s time and energy are not restricted to the BBQ, AXE and BREW as he is also

committed to the Club’s Children’s Christmas for children from Ruby’s Place and FESCO, the Rowell Ranch Rotary Parade sponsored by Castro Valley Rotary, and is the Marshall School Project Manager, which was launched on June 3 at Marshall School PocketPark Renovation in partnership with Forestr.org. A Club Member for more than twenty years and Club President in 2010-11, Randy and his wife, Debbie, also hosts the Club’s annual Picnic and BBQ.

The Rotary Club of Castro Valley has hybrid meetings. The Club meets on Tuesdays at 12:00 noon at The Meadows Restaurant at Redwood Canyon Golf Course and also online. The Club is always searching for individuals who want to make a positive impact locally, nationally and internationally. For more info, please visit: CastroValleyRotary.org.

Graduates: Adaptation, Determination

continued from front page Pandemic. Learning to voyage through the various geographical, academic, social, and cultural aspects of schooling can be especially challenging. But Wheeler and other speakers noted that Redwood High School students embodied the adaptation and determination needed to navigate this critical time of their lives.

Redwood High School principal Kenneth Kahn said the Class of 2023 demonstrated to their fellow students and plenty of adults the ability to thrive in any circumstance, adding that these graduates are an impressive and inspiring bunch who exemplify the values of hard work, determination, critical thinking, and adaptability. He says he’s confdent they will go

on to represent our community with positivity, integrity, and honor through the rest of their professional aspirations.

“Graduation, also known as Commencement, is a relative term, as it speaks not only to the ending of one’s journey or accomplishments but also where we recognize the beginning of a new chapter in our lives,” Khan said.

Saroyah Diamond Monroe Hakim Craig Jackson Ignacio Alejandro Valverde Pino

Randy Vanderbilt, one of three June Rotarians of the Month

CALL NEWS EMAIL 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 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

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HOME SERVICES GUIDE

Help for the homeowner means business for you!

To Place an Ad ... Call 614-1558

Help for the homeowner means business for you!

San Leandro Times

HOME SERVICES

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

*SPECIALIZING IN WOOD FENCES, DECKS & RETAINING WALLS. Replace or repair, paved walkways, yard cleaning, tree trimming, topping or removal, garage cleaning & debris removal. Insured & Bonded #8189. Jerry 510-410-2427. Fence wobbly? Call Randy's Fence Reinforcement and save thousands! 510-706-6189.

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Maintenance, Trimming, Cleanups, Hauling, Sprinkler Repair/ Timers. FREE Estimates. Insured. 510-299-9583

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GIVEAWAYS

FREE - Good for scrap metal - 5 drawer metal file cabinet. Can be used but has lots of rust spots. Call Patrick 510-517-3351.

HAULING SERVICE

HAULING: Small and Big Jobs. Furniture, Concrete, Wood, Trash, Metal, Demolition. Also house inside/ outside cleanups. 510-715-1578.

HOUSE CLEANING

VICTORIA’SHOUSE CLEANING

Excellent references. Free estimates Reasonable rates. 510-715-1578 VictoriaGutierrez140@gmail.com

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)

Black leather recliner couch $300, like new black couch $375. 510-5381309.

Wire dog cage 48”Lx31”W in good condition. $30. Call 510-278-9719.

MISC. WANTED

WANTED - Reel to reel music tapes, Call Patrick 510-517-3351.

WANTED: Old toys, pedal cars, license plates, old coins, etc. 510886-3195.

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

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

Would you like the help of a Professional Agent?

For assistance call ...

*SCOTT HARRISON - Realtor Coldwell Banker 510-388-4536

RENTALS

San Leandro clean, quiet, unfurnished studio with big bedroom and big kitchen, private entry, hardwood floors. $1,200. No drugs. 510-3166326.

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

RENTALS/RV SPACES

RV/ Trailer space in San Leandro and Oakland& Hayward. $925/ month. Call 510-481-9901. SERVICES

HANDYMAN & CONTRACTORS

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.

Help for the homeowner means business for you!

San Leandro Times

HOME SERVICES GUIDE Call 614-1558

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

SECTION 00010 NOTICE INVITING BIDS

Notice is hereby given that sealed bids will be received by the Castro Valley Sanitary District (CVSan) in their offce located at 21040 Marshall Street, Castro Valley, CA 945466020, at any time prior to 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, for furnishing all labor, materials, equipment, and services for the construction of improvements designated as: Infow and Infltration Reduction Project District Project No. 97 (2022-01)

Bids will be publicly opened, examined and declared on said day and hour, and will be referred to CVSan’s Board of Directors for subsequent action.

A pre-bid conference will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 27, 2023, through virtual video conference. Please contact CVSan at (510) 756-4200 for virtual video conference details.

All of said work is to be done in accordance with the Contract Documents, at the places and in the particular locations, of the form, sizes and dimensions and of the materials, and to the lines and grades and at the elevations as shown on the Plans and Specifcations made therefore and approved by CVSan

The successful Bidder will have the opportunity to enter into a partnering agreement with CVSan. Partnering consists of a voluntary effort by all parties to develop joint goals and establish a cooperative rather than adversarial atmosphere while executing the Contract. The objective of partnering is effective completion of the work on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with the Contract Documents. Partnering shall commence and be conducted in accordance with industry practice.

Under California Laws and Regulations, CVSan shall inform all prime contractors of public works, to the extent feasible, of relevant public work requirements. Therefore, CVSan hereby advises all bidders that the successful bidder shall:

1. Employ the appropriate number of apprentices on the job site as set forth in California Labor Code 1777.5;

2. Provide workers’ compensation coverage, as set forth in California Labor Code Sections 1860 and 1861;

3. Keep and maintain the records of work performed on the public works project, as set forth in California Labor Code Section 1812;

4. Keep and maintain the records required under California Labor Code Section 1776 which shall be subject to inspection pursuant to California Labor Code Section 1776 and California Code of Regulations, Division 1, Chapter 8, Subchapter 3, Article 6, Section 16400 (e); and

5. Be subject to other requirements imposed by law.

Bidders are hereby notifed that, pursuant to the provisions of California Labor Code, Section 1770 et. seq., CVSan has obtained from the Director of the Department of Industrial Relations, the general prevailing rate of per diem wages and a general prevailing rate for holidays, Saturdays and Sundays, and overtime work for public work projects of more than one thousand dollars ($1,000) in the locality in which the work is to be performed for each craft, classifcation, or type of worker required to execute the contract. A copy of said prevailing rate of the per diem wage is on fle at the offces of CVSan, 20211 Patio Drive, Suite 200, Castro Valley, CA 94546. Said prevailing rate of per diem wages will be made available to any interested party upon request, and a copy thereof shall be posted at the job site. Bidders intending to use a craft or classifcation not shown on the prevailing rate determinations may be required to pay the rate of the craft or classifcation most closely related to it. (Ref: http://www.dir.ca.gov/dlsr/statistics_research. html#PWD)

CVSan will not recognize any claim for additional compensation because of the payment by the Contractor of any wage rate in excess of the prevailing wage rates on fle as aforesaid. The possibility of a wage increase is one of the elements to be considered by the contractor in determining his/her or its Bid and will not, under any circumstances, be considered as the basis of a claim against CVSan on the Contract.

The successful Bidder and its subcontractors shall employ workers which consistently display and demonstrate proper moral, ethical, and professional conduct to all fellow workers, employees and representatives of CVSan and other involved parties.

Pursuant to the provisions of California Labor Code Section 6707, each Bid submitted in response to this Notice to Contractors shall contain, as a Bid item, adequate sheeting, shoring, and bracing, or equivalent method, for the protection of life and limb in trenches and open excavation, which shall conform to applicable safety orders. By listing this sum, the Bidder warrants that its action does not convey tort liability to CVSan, the Design Consultant, the Construction Manager, and their employees, agents, and subconsultants.

Physical copies of the Contract Documents are now on fle and available for public inspection at the CVSan’s Capital Improvements Offce, 20211 Patio Drive, Suite 200, Castro Valley, CA 94546 where they may be obtained for a non-refundable $85.00 charge. Contract Documents will be mailed for an additional charge of $10.00 per set. Each Bid must conform and be responsive to the invitation, the Plans and Specifcations, and all documents comprising the pertinent Contract Documents. Each Bid shall be presented under sealed cover and shall be accompanied by a certifed check, cashier’s check, cash or bidder’s bond, made payable to CVSan, in an amount not less than ten (10) percent of the bid. The said check shall be given as a guarantee that the Bidder will execute the Contract in conformity with the form of agreement contained within the Contract Documents and will furnish bonds and insurance policies as specifed within ten (10) days after notifcation of the award of the Contract to the successful Bidder.

Addenda issued during the time of bidding shall be covered in the Contractor’s Bid and shall become part of the Contract Documents.

Bidders shall develop and submit bids at their own expense. CVSan will not reimburse any costs associated with the development and submittal of any and all Bids.

CVSan reserves the sole right to reject any and all Bids and to waive any informality in a Bid.

No Bidder may withdraw its bid for a period of sixty (60) days after the date set for the opening thereof.

Any Bid protest must be submitted in writing to Castro Valley Sanitary District, 21040 Marshall Street, Castro Valley, CA 94546, by 4:30 p.m. of the 5th business day following the Bid opening. The initial protest document must identify the protestant and contain a complete statement of the basis for the protest with reference to any portion of the bid documents which the protestant relies on as the basis of the protest. The above time and content requirements are mandatory, and failure to comply therewith shall constitute a waiver of any further right to pursue a bid protest, including fling a Government Code claim or legal proceedings. Bid protests shall be acted upon by CVSan’s Board of Directors.

At the successful Contractor’s option, securities may be substituted for the required retention, in accordance with the provisions of Section 22300 of the State of California Public Contract Code.

In accordance with the provisions of California Public Contract Code Section 3300, CVSan has determined that the Contractor shall possess a valid Class A – General Engineering; Class C-34 – Pipeline Contractor; or Class C-42 – Sanitation System Contractor license.

In accordance with the provisions of California Business and Professions Code Section 7028.15, a Bid submitted to CVSan by a Contractor who is not licensed in accordance with Chapter 9 of the California Business and Professions Code shall be considered non-responsive and shall be rejected by CVSan.

The above-mentioned Project is a public work. Therefore, the prime contractor and all subcontractors for the Project must be registered with the California Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to the provisions of Labor Code Section 1725.5 in order to be qualifed to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal, or engage in the performance of any work under the Contract for the Project. (All code references herein are to California codes). A bid shall not be accepted nor any contract or subcontract be entered into without proof of the contractor’s or subcontractor’s current registration to perform public work pursuant to Labor Code Section 1725.5.

Pursuant to Labor Code Section 1771.4, the Project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Industrial Relations. The prime contractor shall post jobsite notices as prescribed by regulation and the prime contractor and each subcontractor shall furnish the records specifed in Labor Code Section 1776 directly to the Labor Commissioner as specifed in said Section 1771.4. Pursuant to Labor Code Section 1773.3, CVSan shall provide notice to the Department of Industrial Relations of the award of this Contract within 30 days of the award.

By: Roland Williams, General Manager Castro Valley Sanitary District Date: June 6, 2023

MAC: Not Keen on EBMUD Project Nor ‘Environmental Justice Element’

continued from front page But current and former MAC members and members of the public aren’t keen on the project, having been burned by a similar soil relocation from EBMUD in 2019 that they say disr pted tra fc and damaged roads with heavy-duty trucks on main thoroughfares, including Redwood Road.

The project planned for this summer is smaller than the 2019 project, with plans to move about 80 percent less soil than the 2019 project. EBMUD says they will further mitigate issues by working during the summer to avoid impacting school tra fc red cing wor hours, covering loads, and encouraging the public to report offending haulers.

Public speakers questioned the necessity for the project at all, saying there are methods to install new pipes within existing pipes that need to be replaced, and it’s possible to do so without moving so much soil.

Former MAC member Marc Crawford, who was serving on the council during the last EBMUD hauling project, spoke at Monday’s meeting, saying he was “shocked” EBMUD would attempt a repeat of a project that he believes did not go well the frst time

“It’s all BS; they told us all these same things last time,” said Crawford. “They don’t really care what we have to say. The deviousness is appalling.”

Crawford said that 150 trucks running regular large loads down Redwood Road would cause damage, and EBMUD should pay to repave the

road; the utility says they pay taxes like everyone else and have a right to use the road.

MAC member Chuck Moore called EBMUD’s plan “a slimy way of doing business” and said he’d like to see an Environmental Impact Report for the project, just like any other contractor would need for a similar project.

In the end, the MAC said that they would request that the County delay the project and said they’d fle an in nction i necessary.

The MAC was also not keen on another agenda item- an update they received about the Alameda “Environmental Justice Element” of the Alameda County General Plan.

In 2016, the State of California passed Senate Bill 1000 (SB 1000), which established environmental justice requirements for General Plans for all cities and counties.

The California Environmental stice Alliance defnes Environmental Justice as “the basic right of people to live, work, go to school, and pray in a healthy and clean environment, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, age, culture, ability, nationality, or income”

The Alameda County Element is a 178-page document that has been in the works for several years and considers factors like population and socioeconomic factors to create more equitable resources in

R P alo

the community. The document considers air quality, noise pollution, and disadvantaged communities when distributing resources.

The MAC was somewhat skeptical of the Element, saying there are well-intended ideas but little substance to the plan.

“I hope we aren’t falling into a San Francisco, Oakland, Los Angeles style hole with this document,” said MAC member Ken Carbone. “This thing is all over the place.”

The MAC criticized the document for being vague and rushed. Members wanted to know the annual price tag of implementing the plan, but the county says that won’t be known until they identify funding from the county budget or outside grants.

“How are we going to measure these changes?” asked Moore. “What is the timeline for results? I’m concerned that there are a lot more economical things going on; we could focus on the more practical things.”

The report next goes to the County Planning Commission, and there will be further public meetings over the summer, with possible adoption as early as this fall.

In other MAC matters, the Council held its annual election of a Chair and Vice-Chair, with current Chair Bill Mulgrew unanimously winning a second term as Chair and Al Padro elected Vice-Chair.

© 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.

RI ( arc 21 to ril 19) stubborn refusal to go ahead on a project mystifes colleagues who expected more exibility. But once you explain your position, they’ll understand and even applaud you.

R ( ril 20 - a 20) A relationship seems to be stuck in the same place. Now it’s up to you, dear Bovine, how far you want it to go and how intense you want it to be. Choose well and choose soon.

INI ( a 21 to une 20) A relationship progresses more slowly than you would prefer. Best advice: Insist on a frank and open discussion. What is learned could change minds and, maybe, hearts.

N R ( une 21 - ul 22) It’s all right to be grateful to a workplace colleague who has done you a good turn. But gratitude shouldn’t be a lifelong obligation. The time to break this cycle is now.

( ul 2 - u ust 22) It’s going to be especially nice to be the King of the odiac at this time. A recent money squeeze eases. Plans start to work out, and new friends enter our Majesty’s domain.

IR ( u ust 2 - e t. 22) Before you make a commitment on any level (personal, professional, legal), get all of the facts. There might be hidden problems that could cause trouble later on.

I R ( e t. 2 - cto er 22) TPersonal relationships improve.

Professional prospects also brighten. A job offer could come through by month’s end, and an old friend seeks to make contact.

RPI ( cto er 2 - No e er 21) our senses detect that something is not quite right about a matter involving a workplace colleague. Best advice: ollow your keen instincts, and don’t get involved.

I RI (No . 22 - Dec. 21) A prospect offers rewards, but it also demands that you assume a great deal of responsibility. Knowing you, you’re up to the challenge, so go for it -- and good luck.

PRI RN (Dec. 22 - an. 19) A favor you did a long time ago is repaid, as a trusted colleague steps in to help you with a suddenly expanded workload. A family member has important news as well.

RI ( an. 20 - e . 1 ) A new job offer could require moving across the country. But before you let your doubts determine your decision, learn more about the potentials involved.

PI ( e . 19 - arc 20) our sense of fair play doesn’t allow you to rush to judgment about a friend who might have betrayed you. Good All the facts on the matter are not yet in.

Pra eru is Not e it

As an educator for over 25 years, I was upset by the content of a recent Letter to the Editor (“Amazing What’s Not Being Taught in School System”, 5/7/23). The writer recommends the website Prageru.com as an educational resource. Unfortunately, the letter failed to mention that “Prageru” is not an educational service. It is a Right-Wing propaganda organi ation n act many ona fde academics have pointed out that Prageru’s “educational videos” are little more than hate speech. These videos routinely attack people of color, immigrants, and the LGBTQ community. Among other things, the founder of Prageru (Dennis Prager) has compared homosexuality to incest and Prageru videos routinely claim that LGBTQ people are mentally ill. Prager himself has claimed that homophobia, sexism and racism do not really exist. Prageru videos also deny well esta lished scientifc data on climate change and present what is essentially a white-supremacist view of history.

–Alfred Kielwasser, Castro Valley

I Agree With Spink

As an Historian, among a myriad of occupations and degrees I hold, I agree 100% with Stacy Spink on his letter about Memorial Day. A lot of our basic American history, and world history for that matter, is not being taught in our

schools. I taught community college in Kansas for two years, and also basic composition at a university for two years, and I was shocked by the lack of knowledge my students had on what, when I was growing up, was practically considered common knowledge. I always wondered how did these students even get into a junior college or a university. Granted, not all of the students were lacking, but I would say a majority were, not knowing things like the origin of Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, Labor Day, etc. I checked with some of my colleagues about this and some of them were equally vague. I asked one if they knew how we get the dates for Easter, an he said he wasn’t sure but ‘’they are probably determined by the American calendar company.’’ I had to close my mouth tight to keep from laughing. So it is not just students, it is teachers too. Our whole education system has gone awry.

–Angela Shipp, Castro Valley

ait in indness

Our faith in fellow human being is tested at times. My faith in kindness of stranger was rewarded by a person who found my wallet in middle of Center Street. Wallet fell out of my unzippered motorcycle jacket. By prompt recovery saved me from hours and days of cancelling credit cards, requesting new ID cards and drivers license. I can not thank enough for the good Samaritan of Castro Valley.

–Keisuke Warner, Castro Valley

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

Four Amazing Things About Fitness You May Not Realize

By Mitch Rothbardt SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Fitness is a pretty amazing thing, and like most amazing things, a lot of the amazing thing-ness comes from the fact that some of the amazing things it offers are amazing things you may not expect or realize.

Here are 4 of them:

1. Fitness is for everybody. A few years ago, in preparation for a project, I talked to many of my clients about their impressions o ftness e ore joining our gym. The responses were enlightening. Most of our clients are in their 50s and older and elt li e ftness st wasn’t for them.

CVGSL CHAMPIONSHIP WINNERS: Pictured (from Left to right), 1st Row: Rainey Rinaldi, Maddy Engelund; 2nd Row: Alayna Sershen, Val Grazzini, Penny Moore, Sydney Huynh, Richa Padhi, Coach Penny Drake; 3rd Row: Coach Greg Garrett, Manager Jennifer Zaretzka, Coach Robin Wadsworth Rinaldi, Fiona Zaretzka, Lizzie Shavies, Cameron Talauta, Olivia Monarrez, Coach Brenden Brown. Not pictured, Scorekeeper Dan Zaretzka.

Banshees Softball Team

Our Athletes of the week are the Banshees, who are part of the Castro Valley Girls Softball League (CVGSL) Majors Division (12U). The team won the CVGSL Championship on May 20 at Castro Valley High School and won the Tri-Valley Intercity League Championship in back-toback games on May 21 in Livermore. The Intercity League is made up of teams from Castro Valley, San Ramon, Pleasanton, and

Livermore. The Banshees’ 14-1-0 season was made possible by great player sportsmanship and lots of supportive help from family, friends, and the CVGSL staff. The Banshees celebrated their season with a trip to an Oakland A’s game, where a congratulatory message on their win was featured on the scoreboard, and with a Banshees vs. Family back-to-back two-game series and picnic lunch.

All the representations of ftness they e er saw were something ftness models hat’s a shame eca se ftness is or e eryone o matter your age or condition, there is always something you can do to feel better, move better, and improve your mobility and overall health. Fitness is not just about looking like a cover

model; for 99.9% of us, that’s a useless and harmful goal.

2. Fitness is versatile and

ever-changing. One of the best things a o t ftness is how it can change as you change. As much as we’d like to it to be stable, life is always moving and evolving. We have to e ol e with it and ftness can do that with you.

Is work getting a little nuts? Let’s dial back the intensity a little. Want to try an obstacle race? Let’s go for it! How does a 5k sound? Maybe a powerlifting meet? Have some family issues you have to attend to? You can always change your emphasis to deal with whatever you have going on.

3. Fitness is empowering when you least expect it to be. There’s nothing more empowering than fnding yo can do something you couldn’t do before. That can be lifting a Costco-sized bag of dog kibble or your grandchild, walking up

some stairs without breathing heavily, realizing you didn’t think to worry about making it through a tough hike, or anything else.

4. Fitness teaches you to value yourself. Many of my clients are moms. That means many of my clients put themselves last just about all the time because that’s what moms do. Fitness gives them something that allows them to e frst e en i it’s only or an hour or two a few times per week. If you don’t think that’s incredibly valuable, I’ve got some news for you.

There’s so much more to ftness than yo may thin and what people fnd ama ing can vary from person to person. The important thing is how some real enefts can ma e your life more amazing!

Mitch Rothbardt is the owner and head trainer at Castro Valley Fitness. You can reach him with any comments or questions at the dog park with Penny and Puppy almost every afternoon or at Mitch@ CastroValleyFitness.com.

Olympian: Tackled Important Topics Such as Abortion and LGBTQ Rights

continued from page 3 won another frst place A honor and earned other awards in photography, video, and audio rom A and A Paxman plans to pursue a double major in Political Science and nglish at aint ary’s College.

Lisa Carmack, a 2009 CVHS graduate and former Olympian reporter, taught journalism at her alma mater this year and helped the staff cover important topics, including abortion, LGBTQ rights, artifcial intelligence and the pandemic. Carmack graduat-

ed from San Francisco State University with journalism and psychology degrees and teaches journalism enrichment classes at CV schools through a local nonproft gro p

As a frst time editor and graduating senior, I am super proud of our class for having the oldness to co er di fc lt and complicated topics. There were many instances where we had to face the ethical dilemma of whether or not a story should be covered,” said Dorado. “I am thankful to Ms. Carmack for helping us navigate this process. She empowered us as journalists to seek the truth, but to balance

that with compassion.”

“I’m genuinely so proud of what this class has been able to accomplish,” Paxman said. “We released eight newspaper issues, organized a writing and art competition, and increased our presence in the world of multimedia. Much of this is due to the dedication and ambition of the editors and staff writers and Ms. Carmack, who encouraged us to think outside the box. She gave us her complete trust and support in all of our respective creative passions, as crazy as some of them were.”

Find the students’ work at cvhsolympian.com.

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