June 19, 2024

THE ARRIVAL OF SUMMER

CASTRO VALLEY FORUM CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

At Odds Over Canyon Field

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Are you aware of the steps involved in

More than 60 people packed a school district meeting last Wednesday, hoping to sway the board on proposed improvements to the Canyon Middle School athletic fields.

Half of those in attendance were students decked out in soccer uniforms and carrying signs asking the district to approve a $14 million upgrade to replace the school’s natural turf upper playing field with a synthetic turf athletic field suitable for soccer and baseball. The project also includes installing new scoreboards, bleachers, and a batting cage. Student and staff

restrooms, showers, and drinking fountains would also receive ADA and other accessibility upgrades.

Most of the remaining audience members were neighbors living near the school concerned that adding pole-mounted lighting, additional noise and traffic, and extending use as late as 10:00 p.m. would negatively impact their quality of life.

The Board of Trustees held the hearing on June 12 to include final public comment on an Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/ MND), part of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). CVUSD must certify the MND before the project can continue. The information-

al document does not approve or deny a project. Still, it identifies how disruptive the project is to the area, including air quality, noise, traffic, light, and biological impacts on wildlife.

The Board is scheduled to consider approval of the MND on June 26. Placeworks, a consulting firm working with CVUSD, is currently reviewing all the written public comments and will prepare a written response to each one received during the comment period.

“At this time, we do not know whether revisions will be made to the MND,” CVUSD Superintendent Parvin Ahmadi told the Forum. see FIELD on back page

By Amy

Construction on Crow Canyon Road is set for completion by the end of this summer, and a roundabout installation project on the road is planned for 2026, according to an update from the Alameda County Public Works Agency (PWA) at this week’s meeting of the Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC).

A “full depth reclamation” or resurfacing of the busy road from mile marker 5.25 to mile marker 6.78 began in April and is projected for completion in August. The construction is taking place in three phases: Phase One (southernmost section) is complete, Phase Three (northernmost section) is currently being worked on, and Phase Two (middle section) is set to begin this week.

Crow Canyon is one of Castro Valley’s busiest roads, with up to 18,000 cars daily on the popular commuter route.

According to Daniel Woldesenbet, PWA director, there have been delays, flaggers, and oneway traffic during construction but no full closures. see MAC on page 4

FamFest Returns to Ashland This Saturday

By Josie de la Torre SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Ready to kick your summer into high gear? Then, make your way down to the Ashland Youth Center for the 2nd Annual FamFest on June 22.

The Castro Valley and Eden

Area Chamber of Commerce again hosts this street festival, which features entertainment, food, beer, and family fun. The event will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on East 14th Street at 163rd Avenue in Ashland.

Traffic will be closed along

East 14th Street for a few blocks and rerouted a few hours before that to accommodate the setup of stages and booths. Admission is free for everyone to enjoy. Vendors will sell a variety of items, from jewelry to homemade goods. Street vendors will be selling

fan favorites such as tacos and pupusas.

“As people walk through, they will see vendors, community services, games & bounce houses for the kids. They will smell wonderful food, including tacos and pupusas, and hear Music,” said Gary

Slate, executive director of the Chamber.

Returning musical performances will be Taiko Drummers and Patron Latin Rhythm. Booths have games for children, with some giving out keepsakes to kids and see FAMFEST on page 5

Sylvestri CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

More than 60 people packed a school district meeting last Wednesday, hoping to sway the board on proposed improvements to the Canyon Middle School athletic fields.

Castro Valley Weather June 19 - June 23, 2024

PHOTO BY CORINNE DAVIDSON

Faces of the Shelters: Frank Martinez Shares His Story

By Corinne Davidson SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Although the number of unhoused people in Alameda County has dropped slightly in the past few years, hundreds remain on the streets.

First Presbyterian Church of Hayward works to help the unhoused through shelters in Hayward and Castro Valley. One of these community members is Frank Martinez.

Martinez is 63 years old and was born and raised in Hayward. Around three years ago, he found First Presbyterian’s South Hayward Parish (SHP) shelter. Aaron Horner, the Director of Community Outreach at First Presbyterian, approached Martinez in the park where he had been living and offered him lunch at the shelter to get to know the space. Martinez was also encouraged to go to the shelter by a friend who visited regularly. According to Martinez, that friend has now found a home.

“You’re not going to get nowhere by being on the street and feeling sorry for yourself,”

Martinez said, “Let somebody help you like the Lord and come to a shelter and see what it’s like.”

Martinez’s mom had dementia. To prevent her from being put into a nursing home, Martinez stepped up to take care of her. When his parents passed away, and their house was lost, Martinez ended up homeless.

Horner and Martinez have become friends over the years.

Horner is a pastor at First Presbyterian, of which Martinez is now a frequent member. Though visiting the church, Martinez befriended Horner’s father. When Horner’s father was diagnosed with a terminal illness, Martinez put his time and resources into reimagining a photo of Horner’s parents in the form of a painting. The painting was displayed at Horner’s father’s celebration of life and hangs in Horner’s mother’s home.

“In my grief and the sorrow I was going through, Frank — who has very few earthly possessions — supported me,” Horner said, “where I have, I have housing, and I have a family that I live with and go home to each day, and I was

hurting, and Frank soothed my hurting.”

Martinez said that he used to work at a local food bank and often goes back there to help them out. He also helps out around the SHP: helping in the front, helping fellow community members, etc.

A few months ago, Meshon Ringgold, the Case Management Manager at SHP, introduced Martinez to Ginger Boysaw. Boysaw has dementia. “Mr. Frank is an amazing guy all the way around. He helps out with everybody and helps with things, so I figured he would be the perfect candidate to oversee her and make sure that she’s good,” Ringgold said. Horner explained that often, unhoused people aren’t seen as actual human beings. They are often seen as a nuisance when, in reality, they are people from our own communities who are deserving of food, shelter, compassion—everything that a housed person would receive.

“We can’t be responsible for people’s actions out on the street, we can’t be responsible for people’s actions in our space, we can be responsible and how we respond to it,” Horner said.

SMILING THROUGH HARD TIMES: Ginger Boysaw (L) and Frank Martinez (R) sit together at lunch at the South Hayward Parish shelter.

Redwood Road Repairs to Fix Storm Damage Begin

Repairs are underway on Redwood Road from the north end of Castro Valley to a staging area in Anthony Chabot Park in Oakland, fixing storm damage dating back to January 2023. According to Alameda County Public Works Agency spokesperson Leslie Robertson, a contractor was to begin work on Monday, June 17.

“Work is anticipated for completion within 3 to 4 months,” Robertson said in an email.

On Saturday, one could drive as far north as the Redwood

Canyon Golf Course entrance before being forced to turn around. That closure is closer to town, however than what is shown on the Alameda County Public Works Agency road closure webpage. That site, updated June 6, says that the road is drivable to the intersection with Miller Road, home to the Chabot Staging Area and the Castro Valley Christmas Tree Farm. Robertson said no additional closures are anticipated in the near future, nor are any currently closed sections about to reopen.

Sheriff’s Report

COMPILED BY MICHAEL SINGER • CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Stolen Property

Sunday, June 16: At 10:00 a.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested a 49-year-old man from Castro Valley on suspicion of possessing stolen property and illegal drug paraphernalia. The man was spotted leaving a drugstore on Castro Valley Boulevard near Yeandle Avenue with unpaid merchandise when store security stopped him. Deputies took the man into custody.

Busted for Drugs

Sunday, June 16: At 8:00 a.m., a 56-year-old man with no permanent residence was arrested on suspicion of possessing methamphetamine drugs and drug paraphernalia. Deputies stopped the man outside a drugstore on the Boulevard near Yeandle Ave. when they discovered his stash. The man was taken into custody.

Wanted Man

Saturday, June 15: At 9:36 a.m., deputies arrested a 47-year-old CV man as part of a court-issued warrant for his capture. The man was previously charged with driving a stolen vehicle. Deputies spotted the man near a shopping center on Redwood Road near Redwood Court and served the warrant. The man was additionally charged with possessing methamphetamine drugs. Deputies took the man into custody.

New Sheriff Patrol Car Debuts Saturday, June 15: At 8:00 a.m., deputies with the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) Community Oriented Response and Engagement (CORE) participated in the 16th Annual Castro Valley Car Show in Downtown Castro Valley. In addition to the more than 400 classic cars on display, a new ACSO patrol Charger equipped with the AXON Fleet 3 Dash Cam system was on display and was a big hit. Deputies gave out ACSO stickers, bracelets, pens, and coloring books. Deputies also provided recruitment information on our agency’s sworn and professional employment opportunities. CORE accepted donations from the Rotary Club of Castro Valley to support the George Marks Children’s House and the CALICO Center. In the coming days, CORE will present the donations to these vital organizations on behalf of the Rotary Club.

PHOTOS BY MIKE McGUIRE

Hundreds of cars lined Castro Valley Boulevard between San Miguel Avenue and Redwood Road. Even more showed off their custom work in the parking lot at Three Crosses Church and other staging areas this past Saturday, raising over $30,000 for local causes.

CV Classic Car Show Raises Over $30,000

Nearly 20,000 people attended the Castro Valley Car Show this past Saturday, raising over $30,000 for local causes.

Hundreds of cars lined Castro Valley Boulevard between San Miguel Avenue and Redwood Road. Even more showed off their custom work in the parking lot at Three Crosses Church and other staging areas.

Car clubs, independent owners, and enthusiasts showed off everything from classic roadsters to modern muscle cars, and competition-level funny cars.

The Rotary Club of Castro Valley, Friends of the Car Show, and the Moose Lodge hosted the event. Proceeds went to organizations such as the George Mark Children’s

House, which received $750 on behalf of the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO).

The Child Abuse Listening, Interviewing, and Coordination Center (CALICO) also

received $750 on behalf of ACSO.

The 345 Squad Club got a $1,500 donation on behalf of the California Highway Patrol. This non-profit supports

law enforcement, honoring fallen officers like CHP Officer Andrew Camilleri through initiatives like the Memorial Gymnasium.

Additional donations were made to the Hayward/ Castro Valley Moose Lodge 1491 ($1,800), Three Crosses Church ($1,500), and Boy Scout Troop 708 ($1,000)

Rotary member Ken Carbone called the Car Show “a resounding success, thanks to the dedication of these organizations and the community’s support.” He also thanked all the organizations that provided essential volunteers, ensuring smooth event operations, from road closures to public safety.

Next year’s Castro Valley Car Show will be on June 14, 2025.

MAC: Better Ride Along Roadway Once Complete

continued from front page

Also, part of the project is the construction of three new animal crossing culverts.

“There will be a better ride along the roadway once we are done,” Woldesenbet told the MAC.

But even after the resurfacing, Crow Canyon Road is set for further changes in the form of multiple traffic-calming roundabout intersections. The exact locations have yet to be determined, but they are tentatively planned for mile markers 2, 2.5, 3.45 (Norris Canyon

Road), and 5.1.

MAC member Shannon Killebrew said she was “excited” about the roundabouts and would like to see them in other locations, such as Redwood Road.

After the construction is complete, Crow Canyon Road will be eligible for a traffic and speed study under AB 43. The speed limits on the road could potentially change significantly.

MAC Vice Chair Chuck Moore wanted to ensure that the agricultural aspect of the

route is always considered—for example, a truck pulling a trailer containing livestock would take much longer to get up to a safe speed when pulling onto the road than a regular sedan.

He added that the current repairs may make things worse, as the bumpier road slowed speeders down.

“Something has to be done, or we are going to have a real serious problem,” said Moore.

“The law should support the locale,” agreed MAC Chair Bill Mulgrew.

Moore added that he’d like

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Today • Wednesday, June 19

Celebrate Juneteenth at East Bay Regional Parks

The East Bay Regional Park District is celebrating Juneteenth with a Free Park Day today, Wednesday, June 19, in recognition of the date when the last of the enslaved Black Americans were notified of their freedom. Juneteenth is the oldest nationally recognized celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States. The East Bay Regional Park District is committed to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion, and making the parks and agency more welcoming and reflective of the communities it serves. Park District fees waived on Juneteenth include parking, dogs, horses, boat launching, and fishing. However, the fee waiver does not apply to swimming, camping, reservable picnic facilities (due to capacity limits), Park District concessions, state fees for fishing licenses, and watercraft inspections for invasive mussels. Naturalist-led programs are also scheduled for the celebration of Juneteenth today. For more info, visit: www.ebparks.org

Saturday, June 22 & Sunday, June 23

Quilted Treasures XVIII: Together Again

Amador Valley Quilters is hosting their 18th quilt show – Quilted Treasures XVIII: Together Again – this Saturday, June 22, from 10am to 4pm and Sunday, June 23, from 10am to 3pm. The show will be held at the Trinity Church Gymnasium, 557 Olivina Avenue in Livermore, with free parking. Show tickets will be available at the door. The event will bring together quilters and quilt lovers from around the Bay Area and beyond.

Saturday, June 22

Expanding Your Perspective Through Tarot

A change in perspective may raise one’s IQ as much as 80 points! You are invited to change your view of a nagging question or issue, by a taking a journey into tarot land. Join internationally known Qabalistic Tarot teacher and author Amber Jayanti, to “play” an insightful, fun-filled and educational tarot board game. Group size limited to 10, please preregister. Amber Jayanti is the founder of the International School for Tarot & Qabalah Study in 1975, and author of, “Living the Qabalistic Tarot,” “Tarot For Dummies,” and “Principles of Qabalah.” She has been living, studying, writing about, consulting with and teaching these subjects for 40+ years. Her spare time is dedicated to socio-political activism. The Library is located at 3600 Norbridge Avenue. For more info or to register, call the Library at (510) 667-7900 or visit: www.aclibrary.org.

Sunday, June 23

Honoring the Senses: Mindfulness in Everyday Activities

to see areas where law enforcement could pull over and ticket speeding drivers along Crow Canyon and joked that they are welcome to use his driveway.

Finally, the MAC asked Woldesenbet to return to update them regarding repairs to the long-term damage to the northern stretch of Redwood Road sometime later this summer or in the early fall.

You can receive updates on ongoing and planned PWA projects and see road closure statuses by visiting https:// www.acpwa.org.

Join the Castro Valley Library to explore how elements of mindfulness can be incorporated into one’s daily life using the five senses of touch, taste, smell, sound and sight. This workshop takes place this Sunday, June 23 from 2 pm to 3:30 pm and will be lead by Arisika Razak. Applying mindfulness to daily activities has the potential to ease our stress, and improve our health, while allowing us to experience routine activities in fresh and delightful ways. We invite you to participate in a safe sensory experience that explores your own body’s perceptions. While we will provide some food items, if you are on a particular diet, or have allergies, please bring a small (and tasty item) that is safe for you to eat. Arisika Razak is Professor Emerita and the former Chair of the Women’s Spirituality Program at the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco. Formerly a nurse-midwife, her teachings incorporate diverse spiritual traditions, multiculturalism, queer theory and feminism. She is a graduate of the Spirit Rock Dedicated Practitioner Program and a core teacher at the East Bay Meditation Center. Contact the Castro Valley Library at 510-667-7900 or visit: www.aclibrary.org to register.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CASTRO VALLEY ROTARY CLUB

Understanding, Supporting the Aging Neurodiverse Population

By Jagmeet Kaur Sangha SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Over the last few years, there has been a significant increase in adults recognizing that there was always something “different” about them—including our elders. This might manifest in how they interpret the world, experience sensory input, handle group settings, or exhibit particular interests and talents. As this trend continues to emerge, it’s important to examine the experiences of these individuals and how to support them as they uncover this aspect of themselves.

Uncovering What Was Always There

On the outside, undiagnosed neurodivergent adults may have all the hallmarks of neurotypical success, such as flourishing careers and families. However, the internal struggles they face can be challenging. Neurodivergent people often navigate a complex inner world, dealing with feelings of isolation, sensory overload, or the pressure to conform to societal expectations.

Many older adults may not realize that from a young age, they were taught to “mask” their neurodivergent behaviors,

changing their behavior in different settings to conform to societal expectations. We all mask to some degree; we

don’t behave the same way at work as at home. But when we feel required to mask throughout the day and cannot truly be ourselves, it can get exhausting. It can eventually lead to work challenges, relationship issues, and general burnout. However, with growing awareness of neurodiversity, older adults are more likely to seek a diagnosis later in life. Many are motivated by observing similar behaviors in their children or grandchildren, recognizing patterns they experienced in their own childhoods. And with growing rates of early detection and diagnosis for children, older adults have more opportunities to assess themselves and seek support. This can lead to mixed emotions—while there is relief at finally being understood, recognized, and seen, it can also lead to grief and regret over missed opportunities for assistance earlier in life.

Having had no access to support or intervention, adults

diagnosed later in life have often developed their own coping strategies. While these self-taught methods have helped them navigate daily challenges, they can benefit significantly from the tailored support and resources available nowadays. This newfound understanding and assistance can lead to improved quality of life and a stronger sense of self-acceptance.

Advice Going Forward

In a world that divides us by our behaviors, I would encourage recently diagnosed older adults to find a community that supports them in all their strengths, talents, and unique behaviors. It is important to find people who can validate and listen to your needs, especially as you begin to learn and accept those parts of yourself. It may also be helpful to share your diagnosis with others, as this can lead to the construction of useful accommodations within work settings or personal relationships. You may need more breaks throughout the day or prefer certain times of the day as quiet time. Setting these boundaries for yourself can help you and others around you.

see SANGHA on page 10

Make your way down to the Ashland Youth Center for the 2nd Annual FamFest this Saturday, June 22 from 10am to 6pm on East 14th Street at 163rd Avenue.

FamFest: This Saturday in Ashland

continued from front page others giving out information on community resources for adults. Activities for children also include a rock-climbing wall, quilting, bouncy houses, games, and more. FamFest has its roots in Cherryland and Ashland community outreach and was

initially organized by Alameda County Supervisor Nate Miley. The event started as a fun run for kids and adults. It added a few booths at the finish line a few years back. In 2019, it expanded to include vendors and fun family events. Recently, the Eden Chamber decided to take over hosting duties for the

event. FamFest is touted as a smaller counterpart to the Fall Festival held in Castro Valley each year.

Supervisor Miley, Kaiser Permanente, Sutter Health, Oro Loma Sanitary District, and Alameda County Economic & Civic Development are the event’s sponsors.

Ducklings Rescued From Drain

On Thursday evening an alert driver noticed a mother duck circling a storm drain grate on upper Stanton Ave. Thanks to the quick actions of multiple neighbors and the fire department six ducklings were rescued.

CV Resident Beth Taylor to be Presented with a Quilt of Valor

Castro Valley resident Beth Taylor, an Amador Valley Quilters member and a US Army veteran, will receive a Quilt of Valor at this weekend’s quilt show Quilted Treasures XVIII: Together Again. The presentation will take place this Saturday, June 22 at 2pm during the quilt show at Trinity Church, 557 Olivina Ave., in Livermore.

The Mission of the Quilts of Valor Foundation is to cover Service Members and Veterans touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.

Local Quilts of Valor group leader Michelle McCumber reports that she learned about Quilts of Valor while attending the Niles Quilt Show with

a friend whose son suffered severe war injuries in Iraq.

He received a Quilt of Valor to honor his valiant military service. Michelle was inspired to make and present Quilts of Valor to local veterans. She was able to accomplish this mission with the help of Amador Valley Quilters (AVQ) member Bonnie Schwergle, who was active in the American Legion Auxiliary in Niles, CA. Together they convinced the AVQ Board in 2013 that Quilts of Valor (QOV) was a worthy philanthropic cause, and AVQ has continued this affiliation into the present.

Currently there are 620 QOV groups and 11,000 QOV members nationwide.

The Amador Valley Quilters have currently presented 968 quilts to local male and female military veterans, and are eager to continue sewing. The Quilts of Valor Foundation has presented 393, 702 quilts at this current time. Michelle reports that an often asked question from the general public is,” How long will your group keep sewing these quilts?” Her reply is, “We will keep sewing them as long as there are military veterans to honor.”

The Quilts of Valor sewing group meets at the Veterans Memorial Hall, 522 South L Street in Livermore every Monday from 10:30am to 3:30pm. New members are always welcome.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ISABELLE ADAMS & MARK BROWN

By Carl Medford, CRS

Buyer Agent Compensation to Change in August

By Carl Medford, CRS Special to the Forum

Beginning 08/17/24, homebuyers will be required to sign a representation agreement to have a REALTOR® work on their behalf. Consequently, buyers are raising a few questions.

my agent’s fee?”

“By signing a buyer broker agreement, does it guarantee I will have to pay

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It depends. Many believe the seller-paid compensation model will ultimately prevail. In those situations, the buyer agent’s compensation would be paid by the seller. If the compensation provided does not fully pay the compensation amount included in the buyer broker agreement, then the buyer would be responsible for paying the balance.

“I will get to ask the seller to pay my buyer agent’s commission?”

Absolutely. If no compensation is stated, you can always ask and they can choose to say ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ If they agree to compensation, your agent would write this into the offer.

Is it possible to negotiate a commission?

Yes. Commissions have always been negotiable. Negotiation happens in two separate situations. First, when engaging the services of a buyer agent, you will have the opportunity to negotiate the representation fee your agent will accept. You will have the right to ask for a specific fee structure and the agent will have the right to state what their fee will be.

If agreement is reached, then that fee will be written into the buyer broker agreement. If agreement is not possible, you then have the freedom to go find another agent.

The second negotiation happens during the offer process. Prior to showing any given home, your agent will have determined whether or not the seller is willing to provide cooperative compensation and will share that information with you. You will then be given the choice as to whether you still wish to see that property. Even then, and although the seller has stated no compensation will be provided, you could still view the home and write an offer including your agent’s compensation. Once the seller has an offer in hand, given the other terms of the offer, they may be willing to negotiate the fee. As an example, an option could be to write an offer over list price that would include the fee (make sure the home will appraise at the higher amount).

Come August it will be a whole new world – make sure you interview a few agents to find one that will work for you.

*Subject to final court approval

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.

Garden Problem Not Sowbugs, which Are Nature’s Decomposers

By Buzz Bertolero Special to the Forum

QOur vegetable garden seems to be facing a challenge with what we believe are Sowbugs. These bugs, which I might be referring to by the wrong name, resemble armadillos and curl up into a ball when touched. They’ve been nesting and causing damage to our vegetable leaves, leaving them full of holes and attacking the stems at the ground. Can anyone suggest a natural predator that could help control them?

AThis doesn’t sound like a Sowbug problem. Sowbugs are not insects or bugs. They belong to the same group of animals as the crab. They’re the only

crustaceans to spend their entire life out of water. Contrary to popular belief, Sowbugs do more good than harm and are often wrongly blamed for many problems. Sowbugs never attack living tissue, so they will not shred or eat holes in the leaves of plants. They are, in fact, Mother Nature’s decomposers, breaking down organic matter and debris into nutrients that plants can use. We find colonies of Sowbugs breaking down larger pieces of organic debris like bark and homemade compost. They pose the biggest problems in strawberry, pumpkin, and melon patches. Also, any other crop where the maturing edible touches the ground. The wet ground from normal irrigation and poor air circulation causes the tissue at the resting point to decay and provides an en-

try point for Sowbugs. You need to lift those crops that touch the ground with small paper cups, drip irrigation clips, or straws to improve air circulation. This prevents the tissue from decaying and gives Sowbugs an entry point. I would suspect snails, slugs, and earwigs as your vegetable garden’s primary suspects. Sluggo Plus is the organic control for snails, slugs, and earrings. It’s an organic bait that is safe for two and four-legged pets. Sluggo should be reapplied monthly during the growing season. Another organic control for Earwigs is to trap them in a paper tube made from rolled-up newspaper. The tubes are pre-moistened and set out at dusk. In the morning, empty the contents into a pail of soapy water. This is repeated daily until the plants have

established themselves and matured.

QI have a hibiscus in large pots on a patio with southern exposure. The new growth is very scraggly, and the leaves look deformed. I let the soil dry out before I watered. Is there anything I can do to bring it back?

AIt seems your Hibiscus is experiencing water stress, but there’s no need to fret. You

have the power to change your watering habits and correct the issue. With a southern exposure, your Hibiscus is exposed to the full heat of the day, leading to quick drying out. This is compounded by the wind, which acts as a desicant. To combat this, when the temperatures are over seventy-five degrees, water them every other day, and daily with temperatures over eighty-five degrees, filling each container to the brim. Additionally, adding Os-

mocote fertilizer to every container provides nutrients every time you water. With these changes, you should see dramatic improvements in your Hibiscus in six to eight weeks. You’ve got this! Buzz Bertolero is an Advanced California Certified Nursery Professional. The Dirt Gardener’s website is www. dirtgardener.com, and questions can be sent by email to buzz@dirtgardener.com.

Mortgage Rates Continue to Move Down

Mortgage rates continued to fall back this week as incoming data suggests the economy is cooling to a more sustainable level of growth. Top-line inflation numbers were flat but shelter inflation, which measures rent and homeownership costs, increased showing that housing affordability continues to be an ongoing impediment for buyers on the house hunt.

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.

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CONTRACTOR SERVICE

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continued from page 5

Once you begin to accept and celebrate your own neurodiversity, this can increase awareness and encourage others to recognize their authentic gifts! Remember, autism is not a learning challenge. The experience of neurodivergence encompasses the full breadth of life—and truthfully, it need not be seen as a challenge at all. By embracing neurodiversity—including autism, ADHD, and other related conditions—we unlock the potential for new, beautiful ideas, innovation, and the overall evolution of society.

Jagmeet Kaur Sangha is a board-certified Behavior Analyst who lives in Castro Valley. Her organization, Behavior Pivot Consulting, partners with organizations to cultivate neuro-inclusive environments that understand brain-based differences and promote mental wellbeing. For more, visit www.behaviorpivot.com

Neurodivergent people often navigate a complex world, dealing with feelings of isolation, sensory overload, or pressure to conform to societal expectations.

WINKLER LAW

How to Administer a Trust

A: Q:

My father recently died. His home, bank accounts and other assets were held in a Living Trust. His financial advisor said we should now engage a lawyer to help with trust administration. What? I thought if you had a Living Trust that there was little or nothing to do following the death of the trust-maker? Is that not so?

By Gene L. Osofsky, Esq. SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Your father’s financial advisor is correct. One of the most common misconceptions among those who have established a Living Trust is that there is little or nothing to do following the death of the trust-maker. In fact, depending upon the nature of the assets, there is often quite a bit to do.

Living Trusts & Trust Administration Probate • Wills Real Estate • Litigation

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Think of it this way: many people create Living Trusts in order to avoid a formal probate proceeding, which many people correctly understand to be a cumbersome, time-consuming process overseen by a judge in court. By comparison, administering a trust following death involves many of the same processes, except that it is controlled by a trustee in an out-of-court process called trust administration. Further, a probate is a public proceeding, while administering a trust is typically a private matter. Still, even with trust administration there are things to do and laws to follow.

While everyone’s situation is

different, here is a partial list of things that should to be done during a typical trust administration:

• Prepare formal, written Notice to Trust beneficiaries and heirs in legal format;

• Identify and protect decedent’s assets;

• Lodge decedent’s Will with the Court;

• Give formal notice to agencies: Medi-Cal, FTB, IRS, Social Security;VA

• Prepare a trust accounting, if required by the terms of the trust;

• Obtain appraisals for tax purposes and for distribution purposes;

• Ascertain and pay creditors;

• Advise Beneficiaries about any “Disclaimer” option;

• Resolve disputes among beneficiaries;

• Take title to real property in the trustee’s name;

• Sell real property where appropriate & distribute the proceeds;

• Handle sub-trust funding if required by the trust;

• File fiduciary income tax returns, if required;

• File estate tax returns for larger estates or to elect / preserve tax portability;

• Arrange care for pets Sometimes there are problems with a trust which need to be corrected by seeking an appropriate court order. One example would be a trust prepared years ago, when tax laws were different, which should now be revised to comport with

new tax law. Another example: where a trust leaves assets to a beneficiary who is now disabled and receives public benefits (such as SSI and/or Medi-Cal), and whose bequest should, instead, now go into a Special Needs Trust for his benefit so as not to disturb the continuation of those benefits. Where these issues appear, the trustee must also consider whether to seek a post-mortem trust modification via a Court Proceeding, or via the newer out-of-court Decanting Process. While the rules regarding trust administration are generally more relaxed than those governing a probate proceeding, nevertheless it is wise for the successor trustee to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in these matters, so that he or she can be properly advised and avoid tripping over legal requirements. Remember: the successor trustee typically has a fiduciary duty to honor the terms of the trust, comply with relevant law, and deal fairly with designated beneficiaries. We recommend that all successor trustees seek appropriate legal guidance so that they discharge their duties lawfully, minimize family disputes and avoid creating liability for themselves.

Gene L. Osofsky is an elder law and estate planning attorney who has been helping East Bay families for over 25 years with Trusts, Wills, Powers of Attorney, Probate, Medi-Cal Planning, and related matters. Contact his office, by email: Gene@LawyerForSeniors.com or call (510) 247-2555.

Canyon Middle School Athletic Fields Project

Dear CV Community and CVUSD Board of Directors, My name is Mallory Pirogovsky and I am an 11 year Castro Valley resident. I am also a mother and a volunteer in our communities’ youth sports programs. I had the great honor of attending the public forum on 6/12 regarding the Canyon Middle School Athletic Fields Project with my family and my community. It is very refreshing to see so much community engagement on both sides of the argument.

I am writing to you on behalf of both my family, but also on behalf of all the thousands of families in Castro Valley to urgently appeal for the approval of the proposed field project despite the opposition it has faced from some of our neighbors regarding sound and lights. I understand and respect their concerns, but believe that the benefits of this project far outweigh any potential drawbacks.

As a volunteer for community youth sports, I am acutely aware of the pressing need for accessible outdoor spaces, particularly athletic fields. Currently, our children and families are forced to travel long distances—often 20 to 30 minutes away from our community—in order to practice and play sports. This not only adds to the logistical challenges for parents but also deprives our children of valuable time that could be spent engaging in healthy outdoor activities within their own neighborhood. The proposed field project is not merely a luxury but a necessity for our community’s well-being. It will provide a safe and convenient space for our youth to engage in sports and recreational activities, promoting physical fitness, social interaction, and overall well-being. Moreover, having these facilities close to home will foster a sense of community pride and cohesion among residents. One of the key features of the proposed project is the installation of lights on the fields. While we understand concerns about light pollution and disturbance to neighbors, I must emphasize the critical importance of these lights. They are not simply for convenience but are essential for ensuring that our children have the opportunity to participate in sports year-round. With limited daylight hours, especially during the winter months, without lights, the fields would be rendered unusable for a significant portion of the year, further exacerbating the shortage of available playing space.

I acknowledge the concerns raised by some neighbors regarding potential noise and light disturbances. However, the project proposal as written is committed to working to address these concerns through mitigation measures such as carefully designed lighting systems that minimize spillage and glare and a commitment to not installing any noise amplification systems. In conclusion, I urge the school board to consider the pressing needs of our community and approve the proposed field project. The benefits it will bring in terms of physical activity, community engagement, and overall quality of life far outweigh the challenges that may arise. Together, let us invest in our children’s future and create a vibrant, healthy, and inclusive community for generations to come.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

–Mallory

Pirogovsky, Castro Valley

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We Need to Thank HARD, Park District, and CVUSD CVUSD, HARD: Please No Sports Park Malarkey

Dear Editor,

I have been to several community forums and heard people stating that we need more parks in Castro Valley. In my opinion, we need to thank H.A.R.D., EB Regional Park District and the CVUSD for maintaining the beautiful parks, playgrounds and facilities we have available to community members of all ages. To name a few: Lake Chabot and Anthony Chabot Regional Park provides hiking trails, picnic area, a campground, and boating, Cull Canyon Park provides a swimming lagoon, picnic area, volleyball nets and is surrounded by hiking trails, CV Community Center with basketball hoops, water park, picnic area and playground, the Skate Board park, Earl Warren Park with a playground and we even have a dog park. There are public tennis courts on Cull Canyon Rd., a swimming pool at the High School and every elementary school has a playground. I’m sure I’ve missed a few parks and amenities provided to us.

Frequently, I receive a flyer from H.A.R.D and East Bay Regional with a plethora of activities available to people of all ages. All the parks and recreational areas may not be within walking distance of everyone, but if you really want to get out, there are plenty of recreational areas within a very short drive. As a community, I believe we need to focus more on shelter for our unhoused community and take advantage of all the parks we currently have available.

–Carolyn Darcey, Castro Valley

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Dear Editor,

Addressing the major CVUSD and HARD project to build a mega sports park on the CV High School property without a formal environment impact report strongly suggests the potential for major law suits. Considering the salivating rush for project acceptance by the CVUSD Board of Trustees (and others), should any omitted or minimized issue cause financial or personal loss would be the basis for a law suit against every CVUSD Board member since the FORUM reported they all approved the plan.

On the sport park planning company’s (Placeworks) Project Lighting plan dated May 22, 2024, there are 15 light poles ranging from 60 feet to 90 feet. WOW! A separate Project Site Plan shows the location of two scoreboards – also assumed to be lighted. A hidden bonus? In addition to park usage until 10:00PM(!), the another major concern is the effect of the horrific amount of lighting. Placeworks representative, Mr. Dwayne Mears reported “how he and his team used visual simulations and light trespass analyses (yes plural) to limit light spillover”. Now we don’t want any malarkey. No simulations are acceptable. You want to sell this plan then bring in some 90 feet tall light poles with the strand of lights proposed and do an announced live demonstration for the local residents. Also, has anyone heard from our Supervisor on this issue?

–Conrad Wilgus, Castro Valley

Obituaries

Eileen Faye Lewis

Eileen Faye Lewis peacefully went to Heaven on May 16, 2024 after a lengthy illness at her home in Castro Valley with loving family. Eileen was born to Joseph and Bea Lewis June 11, 1947, in Oakland, California. She graduated from Canyon High School in 1965, and Cal State Hayward (now California State University East Bay) in 1969 before beginning her fortytwo-year ministry in Christian education teaching first at Grace Community Christian School in Concord, and then at Redwood Christian Schools in Castro Valley, teaching from 1972 until her retirement forty-one years later in 2013. She was the only teacher to teach every year that the Crossroads Elementary Campus of Redwood Christian Schools operated (1974-2009). Upon her retirement from Redwood Christian Schools in 2013, Eileen was awarded the “Lifetime Achievement Award” by the Association of Christian Schools International, an organization that numbered 24,500 schools worldwide.

Eileen is survived by sister Bea (and Bob) Montgomery of Castro Valley, sister Pat Campbell of Grass Valley, four loving nieces and a nephew and grandnieces and grandnephews plus her beloved pet, Kitty. She was also blessed with many extra special friends from her forty-one years teaching at Redwood Christian Schools, including administration, faculty, staff, parents of her students and her more than one thousand students who were blessed to be in her kindergarten classes. She also leaves many friends from both Redwood Chapel Community Church of Castro Valley, and Gateway Church of Castro Valley.

Eileen loved gardening and traveling with longtime fellow RCS teacher, Georgiann Menke. Yosemite was an annual family camping trip. She also loved to cook and grew green beans and tomatoes, and she shared with new neighbors. She loved to play Canasta with anyone available.

Redwood Christian Schools Superintendent Emeritus Bruce D. Johnson remembers “Miss Lewis” serving “her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in an exemplary manner teaching kindergarten for her entire forty-one years at RCS. Her students always grew academically, physically, mentally, socially and, most important, spiritually under her loving care. A tireless worker, her investment in her students continues to pay great dividends in their children and grandchildren. Her enthusiasm for life will truly be missed.”

Eileen will always be remembered as a godly teacher, friend, sister and aunt as she left a godly legacy for all to remember by modeling Galatians 5:22-23 for all who knew her: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control. She truly lived a Colossians 1:10a life, “Walking in a manner worthy of the Lord.”

Whether or not you are able to attend Eileen’s Celebration of Life, feel free to email your memories to BruceJohnson@rcs.edu and they will be shared either at the Celebration or with the family in written form. If former student or parent, please be sure to include your maiden name, or your relationship to Eileen.

Eileen’s Celebration of Life will be held at Redwood Chapel Community Church, 19300 Redwood Road, Castro Valley, California, on Wednesday, July 24, at 6:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to the Kenya Evangelical Mission (www.KenyaEvangelicalMission.com) or the Bay Area Rescue Mission (www.BayAreaRescue.org).

June 11, 1947 ~ May 16, 2024

Top

Wildcats’ Undefeated Season

Congratulations to the Transfiguration 8th Grade Girls CYO basketball team. The Wildcats completed another successful season going undefeated in league play and winning the Southern Alameda County League championship over St Joachim with a final score of 31 -19. This win set up the Wildcats to be the #1 seed going into the Oakland Diocese Tournament May 18 – 20. In the Diocese tournament, the Wildcats earned a first-round bye, then in the semi-finals played the School of Madeliene out of the East Bay Parochial League, winning 36 - 15. This set up a rematch in the championship game with St. Joachims Trojans who had won their side of the tournament bracket. In the championship

game both teams started out slow and scoring was limited. By halftime the score was Wildcats 10 – 9. Starting in the 3rd quarter, the Wildcats turned up the defensive pressure going into a full court press and causing multiple turnovers that were converted into fast break points. The Wildcats ended up scoring 15 points in the 3rd quarter and holding the Trojans scoreless for the entire 3rd quarter and a few minutes into the 4th quarter while cruising to the victory. The final score of the Diocese Championship Game May 20 was Transfiguration Wildcats 30 – 18 over the St Joachim Trojans. The team has now won back-to-back Diocese’s Championships winning in 7th Grade as well, also over St. Joachim. Highlights of the

last two years for the Wildcats team are, going 12 -2 in the 7th Grade season and winning the Diocese Tournament. This season going 14 – 0 as 8th graders and winning the SAC League Championship and Diocese Tournament. Having now beat St. Joachim five times in a row starting from last season’s Diocese Championship to this current year’s one, knowing that St. Joachim had previously been undefeated in all seasons leading up to this, making the Wildcats the only team to ever beat them.

Congratulations to the 8th Grade Transfiguration Wildcats girls and their storybook finish to their CYO careers as they move on to the High School level and hopefully many more championships!

Field: Skepticism of IS/MND Report

continued from front page

All in attendance said they supported youth sports and improving the grounds for the schools and teams. However, several neighbors near Canyon were skeptical of the IS/MND report.

“People in the surrounding neighborhood have organized as the Canyon Ridge Alliance Project to mount a legal battle

including commissioning studies which show the project will violate existing Alameda County light and sound ordinances,” resident and organizer John Hauser said. Placeworks representative Dwayne Mears noted the planned LED lighting for the Canyon Field would be less intrusive to the neighborhood than their own street lighting.

The Canyon Sports Filed project is a collaborative effort between the Castro Valley Unified School District and Hayward Area Recreational Park District. Castro Valley Soccer Club president Bernard Goodman said the improvements would benefit the players and the community, which currently must spend money elsewhere to rent fields.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Chase Lopez

Our Athlete of the Week is Chase Lopez. This 14-year-old from San Leandro attends Castro Valley High School and won his first-ever NASCAR Edge of Summer: Super Series at the All American Speedway in Roseville, California on June 1. Lopez, driving #24, placed first in the Junior Division for Late Model Feature cars. After placing 2nd and 3rd in the two qualifying rounds, Lopez led for 14 laps, slipped back momentarily, but then regained the lead in lap 22, finishing the race with a time of 8:00.722, a mere 2.3 seconds faster than the next race car. To even compete, Lopez, must be a NASCAR-licensed driver.

Braves Win Championship

Congratulations to the Castro Valley Little League Minor A Braves. On June 12, the team won the California District 45 Little League Tournament of Champions (TOC). The Braves defeated teams from Union City and Mt. Eden in the early brackets before moving on to the finals to meet the San Lorenzo (Los Charros) for the Championship in an 8-6 win. Highlights for the Braves included starting pitcher Major Jackson throwing three straight innings and striking out four batters. Closer Carter Norris pitched the last three innings and recorded the save. Jacob Graves went 3 for 3 at the plate—including an intentional walk—and was responsible for 5 of the 8 runs.

The Matt Wilhite Team is proud to sponsor Athlete of the Week Chase Lopez

Row, (L-R): Coach - Chad Geisler, Sarah Yang #0, Jayden Johns #12, Coach Chad Sullivan, Jessica Verdier #2, Gabi Rogge #23, Mya Williams #55 Coach Rick Verdier. Bottom Row, (L-R): Siena Giannecchini #3, Sofia Hochkoeppler #41, Taylor Sullivan #30, Isra Sherif #14, Isabella Vazquez #53, Katelyn Geisler #1.