March 13, 2024

CASTRO VALLEY FORUM CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

A COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SERVING CASTRO VALLEY SINCE 1989

61.92% OF VOTE

66.07% OF VOTE

Primary Frontrunners

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

The ballots are still being counted, and some contests are too close to call, but voters in Alameda County were firm on a few issues and the politicians they want to represent the area.

Nate Miley is likely headed to a seventh consecutive term on the Alameda County Board of Supervisors, representing District 4. As of Tuesday, at 12:01 a.m., Miley has 61.92 percent of the vote over challenger Jennifer Esteen, who has 38.02 of votes counted.

Despite Miley’s lead, the count continues. With all 562 precincts reporting Tuesday night, the Alameda County Registrar of Voters tallied 194,902 ballots cast, or 20.75 percent of the county’s 93,9274 registered voters. Provisional ballots will continue to be processed for the rest of the month.

Alameda County voters were also confident they wanted the county to shorten job posting requirements to 14 calendar days. Measure A needed a simple majority to pass. It currently stands at 59.44 percent voting yes (100,377 votes) and 40.56 see PRIMARY on back page

What’s Next for Rudy’s?

By Amy Sylvestri

VALLEY FORUM

At Monday night’s Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) meeting, it was announced that MAC Vice Chair Al Padro resigned last week. MAC Chair Bill Mulgrew thanked Padro for his years of service, and the board quickly and unanimously voted Chuck Moore to the Vice Chair position.

The position will last until June, when the MAC holds its scheduled regular internal elections. Supervisor Nate Miley will have to select a replacement for Padro after the application process.

“I just want to thank Al for his volunteer work,” said Mulgrew. “His love of the community never wavered or his land use expertise.”

And in land use business, the MAC then heard more about a townhouse development that’s been in the works for some time.

In August, the MAC initially approved an application to allow the 11-unit townhome development at 20036 Anita Avenue. see MAC on page 10

A.J. Vanegas Goes from Baseball to Ministry

By Lowell Hickey SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Calendar ................ 4

Classified Ads ........ 8

Crosswords ............. 9

Homes ..................... 6

Merchants ............. 10

Obituaries ............. 11

Opinions ............... 11

Our Town ................. 3

Sports .................. 12 Weather ................ 2

At first glance, seeing the parallel between baseball and ministry might be difficult.

Ah, but to A.J. Vanegas, the parallel is clear.

“In my weird way of thinking, this is the same thing I’ve always been part of,” said Vanegas, a former Stanford and minor league pitcher who is now Discipleship and Life Group Director at 3Crosses Church in Castro Valley.

“I’ve spent my whole life on

teams,” he explained. “Now I’m trying to replicate that in a different arena.” Instead of building teams that hit, pitch, and catch, Vanegas builds spiritual teams with his “life group” ministry.

Now an ordained minister, Vanegas was forced out of baseball in 2016 because of back and shoulder injuries. However, his stellar career at Redwood Christian High, Stanford, and the minor leagues earned him election to the Castro Valley Sports Hall of Fame.

Vanegas caught the eyes of professional scouts at Redwood Christian, where he was a three-time all-league selection, a two-time East Bay Prep Athlete of the Year, and the 2010 National Christian School Athletics Association Player of the Year. He consistently clocked 92-93 miles per hour on his fastball and even touched 96. Most professional teams gave up on him when he committed to Stanford his junior year in high school, but the San Diego Padres drafted him in the seventh round anyway,

hoping he’d change his mind. He almost did. The major league deadline for making his decision was Aug. 16, 2010, which happened to be his 18th birthday. Vanegas took it down to the wire before choosing to go across the bay to Stanford, passing up the Padres’ $1.8 million offer.

“I always wanted to go to Stanford,” said A.J., whose father, Al, is a Stanford graduate. “I figured pro baseball would still be there three or four years later.”

see VANEGAS on back page

CASTRO

Another New Year Article?

By Kevin Koo SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Really, Kev? Another New Year article? It’s the middle of March already. I know, I know. I haven’t lost all sense of time yet, but I still can’t believe it’s March! Usually, by this time of year, New Year’s Resolutions are no longer a thing. How are you doing?

You know how they say it gets harder to learn things as you get older? Well, I definitely started feeling that once I became an adult. I would learn something new, but it wouldn’t go as I thought. For example, I played ping pong for a very short while. I thought that since I played tennis, ping pong would be an easy transition. I was blown away by how fast the game was and it was hard for me to respond to different types of spin. It got so frustrating that I stopped playing after a dozen times or so.

Then, when I was a bit older, and my body was feeling stiffer and tighter from tennis,

The Castro Valley MAC advises the Board of Supervisors on matters concerning services that are or may be provided to the area as defined within the boundaries established by the General Plan, including advice on matters of public safety, welfare, public works, and planning.

Meetings occur three times a month on Monday evenings. Appointees must live in the area or have operated/owned

I decided to try out yoga because I heard it was good for flexibility. Can I say I definitely underestimated how difficult yoga is? I would try it out for a month and then stop. Then half a year later, I would try it out for a month and then stop. It felt like I wasn’t improving, even though I did feel better after every session. I thought something was wrong with me or maybe I wasn’t going at the right time, or some other reason.

After some reflection, I realized it wasn’t the logistical or strategic planning that prevented me from sticking to ping pong or yoga, it was that I didn’t enjoy sucking at doing something new. My pride would expect me to pick it up quickly, but when it didn’t, I decided to stop. A few years later, a mentor of mine had a social media post that said the following: Suck first. Suck less. Success!

MAC Seeks Applicants

a business there for at least 5 consecutive years. Appointees will receive a $50 stipend per meeting.

Please go to https://www. acgov.org/bnc to complete an online application. Applications for consideration must be submitted by Friday April 12, 2024. For more information about the Council, please contact Supervisor Miley’s District office at 510-670-5717 or email Ashley.Strasburg@acgov.org

I didn’t love the language at first, but when I reflected on my own experiences, this was exactly my issue. When you start anything new, you most likely will suck. If you can deal with sucking for a little while, you’ll suck less (yay…). If you keep going down that path of sucking less, you will eventually have success. The progression made sense to me. My chiropractor shared that babies fall about 2,000 times before they learn how to walk. How’s that as an example?

So since then, I’ve been thinking about what activities I’ve been avoiding, not because I can’t do it, but because I’m too scared to suck at it. Full transparency, writing for the Forum was a fear of mine. I didn’t know if I would be a decent writer or not. However, I would never know if I never wrote or submitted an article. Another part of business these days is posting social media content, heavily emphasizing video content. I’m still working on posting more often, but I’ve recorded myself enough times and posted enough content that I can be ok with sucking for now.

So, I’m curious… What have you wanted to do but have been afraid to do? Is it because you’re afraid that you’ll suck? Can you think of maybe one or two things? Have something in mind? Now, can I challenge you to try sucking sometime in the next month? Go into it knowing you won’t be good and commit to enjoying doing something new. Better yet, if you learn to laugh at your suckitude, you’ll progress forward even faster! After you do it, I want you to report it to me. Even better, send me proof you did it! If you do, I might have a special gift for you!

Coach Kev helps people find calm, clarity, and confidence in their life while sucking less so he can succeed. Contact him at kevinkoocoaching@ gmail.com, or follow on IG and YouTube @kevinkoocoaching and come meditate with him at https://bit.ly/ kkcmeditation

Sheriff’s Reports

COMPILED BY MICHAEL SINGER • CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Grand Theft Grocery

Sunday, March 10: At 1:57 p.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested a 49-year-old man from Castro Valley on suspicion of grand theft from a grocery store on Castro Valley Boulevard near Redwood Road. Security stopped the man after he tried to leave with unpaid merchandise. Deputies took the man into custody.

Drove Drunk and Over Limit

First Amendment Discussion Next Week at the CV Library

By Mike McGuire CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Why the First Amendment matters more than ever while peoples’ doubts about it have also increased will be the subject of a forum held at the Castro Valley Library on Tuesday, March 19.

“The First Amendment: Our Most Fundamental and Contested Right” will be held at the library from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. The library asks attendees to pre-register on its website, but only to plan details such as how many chairs to set up.

“We won’t actually be checking off names at the door,” laughed Adult Services Librarian Chris Selig, who is helping coordinate the event along with the League of Women Voters.

The forum brings together an educator, a publisher, and a leading First Amendment activist to discuss the document, its history, and its use. It is one of several events supporting this year’s Castro Valley Reads book, “The Cold Millions,” by Jeff Walter, Selig said.

Selig said that the book, set in the early 20th century during a time of much dissent and opposition to it, has freedom of expression as a major theme.

The panel includes David Snyder, the executive director of the First Amendment Coalition, a Berkeley-based group that defends freedom of expression and enforces California’s Brown Act, which requires local government meetings to be open to the public. Snyder will be joined at the event by Katherine Ann

Rowlands, publisher of Bay City News, and Nia Rashidchi, Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services for the Castro Valley Unified School District.

Snyder said that the First Amendment is more important now than it has been in years, but doubts about it are also greater than in the past. He added that there is confusion about what it does and doesn’t do.

“It protects you from the government’s restriction on expression, but anyone else’s,” he said. “And courts have generally upheld such limits as a ban on actual disruption of public meetings as long as the rules address actual disruption and apply to all, not just certain opinions.”

see FIRST on page 4

Saturday, March 9: At 7:43 p.m., a 55-year-old man from Castro Valley was pulled over and arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and driving with a blood alcohol content over the legal limit. Deputies stopped the man on Castro Valley Boulevard near Center Street. The man failed his field sobriety test and was taken into custody.

Wanted for Burglary

Saturday, March 9: At 12:34 a.m., deputies arrested a 28-year-old man from Castro Valley as part of a warrant issued for his capture. The man was previously convicted of possessing burglar tools, providing a false ID for authorities, and resisting arrest. Deputies served the warrant at a home on Pine Street near Elm Street. The man was taken to Santa Rita Jail.

Spousal Assault

Friday, March 8: At 6:17 a.m., a 911 call about a loud and aggressive-sounding argument sent deputies to a motel on

Castro Valley Boulevard near Stanton Avenue. There, they arrested a 41-year-old man on suspicion of spousal assault. The man also had an outstanding warrant for violating the terms of his parole. Deputies took the man to Santa Rita Jail. The victim was treated at the scene.

Possessing Lost Property

Friday, March 8: At 2:22 a.m., deputies arrested a 60-year-old man with no permanent residence on suspicion of possessing lost property, methamphetamine drugs, and related illegal drug paraphernalia. The man was spotted outside a home on Grove Way near Idena Avenue. Deputies handcuffed the man and took him into custody.

Drug Runner Arrested

Thursday, March 7: At 1:28 p.m., a 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of illegal possession of more than 28.5 grams of cannabis and a loaded concealed handgun. Deputies stopped the man outside a grocery store on Redwood Road near Castro Valley Boulevard. The man revealed his stash and was taken into custody.

Attempted Robbery

Thursday, March 7: At 4:28 p.m., deputies arrested a 19-year-old on suspicion of attempted robbery of a grocery store on Redwood Road near Castro Valley Boulevard. Store security alerted deputies to the scene as he tried to rob a clerk. The man was taken into custody.

Refused to Leave

Restricted Area

Thursday, March 7: At 9:24 a.m., a 69-year-old man from Castro Valley was arrested for failing to leave a restricted area of a hospital despite repeated attempts to move him. Deputies were dispatched to Eden Medical Center on Lake Chabot Road after hospital security detained the man for refusing to leave. The man was taken into custody.

CV Man Arrested for Auto Theft

Wednesday, March 6: At 4:28 p.m., deputies arrested a 34-year-old Castro Valley man suspected of auto theft. The man was spotted in the parking lot of a grocery store on Redwood Road near Castro Valley Boulevard. Sheriff’s deputies ran the plates and found the vehicle had been reported stolen. The man was taken into custody.

Assault and Battery with Intent to Maim

Tuesday, March 5: At 8:52 a.m., a 35-year-old man from Castro Valley was arrested on suspicion of assault and battery, assault with intent to maim, and mayhem resulting in serious bodily injury. Deputies were dispatched to the parking lot of a grocery store on Redwood Road near Castro Valley Boulevard following reports of an altercation. After questioning, The man was handcuffed and taken into custody. The victim was treated at the scene.

A forum called “The First Amendment: Our Most Fundamental and Contested Right” will be held at the CV Library

First: The Public Info Ecosystem

Rowlands said she’d like to highlight the role of the press in what she termed the public information ecosystem. Her Bay City News supplies news stories to numerous Bay Area newspapers.

“We just had an election. People should understand that they can make a difference, not only by voting on Election Day but by discussing issues in a wide variety of settings the rest of the time,” she said. But she added that some will not share your views, and you could each have information the other person doesn’t.

The role of the press is to elevate civil participation by providing verified relevant information that’s the most useful to people in considering issues, she said. Rowlands called this “baseline factual information.”

Selig said the First Amendment forum is one of several programs the Castro Valley Library is holding to support Castro Valley Reads. A group meets earlier that day at the library to discuss “The Cold Millions.” There are also events to discuss the life of labor and social activist Elizabeth Gurley Flynn on March 23 and inequality in America on March 24.

The library’s website, aclibrary.org/locations/CSV/, has information on all the events and pre-registration for the First Amendment event.

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

CASTRO

Bay Philhamonic to Hold Big Celtic Celebration on Sunday

B

ay Philharmonic is excited to bring you their Celtic Celebration this Sunday, March 17, at 3pm, at their premier venue, Chabot College Performing Arts Center in Hayward. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, promising an exciting, lively, soulful, educational, and entertaining experience. “Bring out the green. This concert will get the entire family in the Irish spirit.”

Bay Philharmonic’s artistic director and conductor, JungHo Pak, will share colorful stories about the Celtic culture and traditions. Notable performances by Annie Dupre (vocals/violin), Caroline McCas-

Jung-Ho Pakkey (award-winning Scottish fiddler), Culann’s Hounds (Irish band), San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers (beloved Bay rea fiddle group), Todd Denman (Irish uilleann pipes), Bill Wolaver (piano/arranger), Kennelly School of Irish Dance (Irish dancers), and Dunsmuir Scottish Dancers, along with the entertaining 50-piece Bay Philharmonic orchestra.

Patrick’s Day celebration with wonderful Celtic musicians, singers, dancers, and storytellers,” says Jung-Ho Pak. “Along with engaging video, gorgeous lighting, and stunning sets, concertgoers will get a true immersive Celtic experience. If you’re looking for luck o’ the Irish, this show will fill your pot of gold!”

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

TONIGHT • Wednesday, March 13

CV Central Business District Specific Plan Update

Join a community-wide workshop to help shape the future of the Castro Valley Central Business District. The Specific Plan will address mobility improvements, community design, new housing, and commercial development and implement the vision of the 2012 Castro Valley General Plan. The event takes place tonight from 6:30 to 8:30pm at the Castro Valley Library (Chabot Room), located at 3600 Norbridge Avenue. The event will also be held virtually via Zoom. Visit: www.mycvforum.com for Zoom link.

Thursday, March 14

Join BSA Troops 722/2722 at our Open House Night BSA Troops 722 (boys) & 2722 (girls) invite you to see how Scouts can have fun, make friends, & learn life skills!

Thursday, March 14, from 7:30 to 8:30pm at Faith Lutheran Church, 20080 Redwood Road, Castro Valley.

Friday, March 15

Dublin Historical Society’s 2024 Shamrock Gala

Join the Dublin Historical Society for the 2024 Shamrock Gala. Held at the Shannon Community Center in Dublin and kicking off Friday, March 15 from 6 to 10 pm. For tickets and more information, please visit: www.eventbrite. com/e/shamrock-gala-2024-tickets-816120587647

Saturday, March 16

CVUSD Education Job Fair

CVUSD is seeking talented and diverse Education Staff at all levels. Please apply online now at: edjoin.org/CVUSD to secure an interview at our Job Fair on March 16. The Job Fair takes place from 9am to noon at Castro Valley High School. CVUSD is built on a strong foundation of parent support, community involvement, a dedicated staff, and quality instructional programs with high expectations for student achievement based on clear district standards.

12:00

Speech and Language Pathologist

•

“We are pulling out all the stops to bring you an extraordinary and unique St.

Bay Philharmonic’s renowned and esteemed Artistic Director and Conductor JungHo Pak has been described by The New York Times as a conductor who “radiates enthusiasm” and the LA Times as “a real grabber.” Jung-Ho Pak is known for his unique approach and vision for symphonic music. Pak brings over 35 years of experience conducting acclaimed professional orchestras worldwide. As with every show, Pak will infuse his style of creativity, and enthusiastic conversational personality. Individual show tickets are $25 to $67 and are available online at: BayPhil.org.

Saturday, March 16

Irish and Celtic Music Concert at CV Library

Join Chris Waltz on St. Paddy’s Day eve at the Castro Valley Library for an Irish and Celtic Music Concert from 1:30 to 2:30pm. He will share music from Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man. This program combines Celtic music on vocals, guitar, bouzouki/octave mandolin Irish flute, the Irish tin/penny whistle, Celtic low whistle, and fiddle.

Tuesday, March 19

Senior Driver Traffic Safety Seminar

Registration has begun for the library’s popular senior driving program! Conducted by the California Highway Patrol, this seminar will include: Compensating for Age-Related Changes, Tune-Up Your Driving Skills, Rules of the Road, Safe Driving Tips; and more! Participants will receive a certificate for completing this FREE course which may lead to an insurance discount. You must be 65 or older to qualify. Registration is required for this FREE program. To register, call the library at 510-667-7900.

Tuesday, March 19

The First Amendment: Panel Discussion at CV Library

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS

Missions Team Serves Others

On Thursday, February 22, the Redwood Christian High Schools Missions Team prepared meals for Kids Against Hunger Bay Area at their Pleasanton warehouse.

Missions Team Director Dr. Evan Barnhart proudly stated “our students love to serve others and their making 6912 meals in 90 minutes is a great example of how they come together to serve together.”

Preparing meals for Kids Against Hunger Bay Area (Sherry Leal, Executive Di-

rector) came three weeks prior to their March 14 departure to serve the Navajo Nation for ten days at Across Nations in Widow Rock, Arizona. The Missions Team will be teaching classes, working on building projects, leading chapels and befriending and encouraging others.

Dr. Al Hearne, Redwood Christian Schools Superintendent, remembers when in 2006 then Superintendent Bruce D. Johnson asked him to lead the first Missions Team Trip: “The excitement that first year was a

mixture of serving in a ministry in Guatemala the first time and all of the uncertainties, imagined and real, that could happen. But, trusting Jesus, we moved ahead. Our students have served in Guatemala and the Dominican Republic prior to teaming with Across Nations beginning in 2013. Every year, our students take the Lord Jesus with them, and serve with commitment and dedication raising the funds for the trip and many of the projects they encounter. We are very proud of our students.”

CV Native Supports U.S. Navy Helicopter Maritime Squadron

Petty Officer 1st Class Jaime Badgett, a native of Castro Valley, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 49. Badgett graduated from Castro Valley High School in 2013.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Castro Valley.

“I moved around a lot growing up, so I was used to making new friends,” said Badgett. “In the Navy, you have to be able to adapt because things are constantly changing.”

Badgett joined the Navy 10 years ago. Today, Badgett serves as an aviation electronics technician.

“I joined the Navy because I couldn’t afford college and I wanted to have new opportunities,” said Badgett.

Members of HSM 49 fly and maintain the MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, the Navy’s most advanced rotary wing maritime strike platform. The Navy MH-60R is able to perform many different missions. Some of the most common operations include strikes on maritime targets, submarine hunting and attack, electronic warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuations and supply support.

Badgett has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishment in the Navy is having junior sailors recognized for the hard work they’ve done on deployments,” said Badgett.

“I am proud of that because when I was a junior sailor, I didn’t feel like my leadership recognized me. Now, I want to make sure my sailors know their efforts are appreciated. It is easy to feel like a small piece of the Navy mission however, getting an award at the end of a deployment can make sailors feel like they did something important.”

Badgett serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“Serving in the Navy means job security and not having to worry about where your next paycheck will come from,”

said Badgett. “It also means having opportunities that I would not have had otherwise. For example, I have been to a lot of really cool places like Thailand and Bail. I was also able to buy a house.”

Badgett is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I want to thank my parents, James Badgett and Rhonda Cardona, for their support,” added Badgett. “I also want to thank my wife, Kaitlyn Durant, who is also in the Navy, for supporting me while I’m gone and being understanding of the lack of control I have sometimes when it comes to this job.”

Emilee Doehne Wins Castro Valley Rotary Club Speech Contest

On Tuesday, March 5, the Rotary Club of Castro Valley hosted the Club Level competition of the 2024 Richard D. King Annual Speech Contest. Program Director Jeff Moore served as Master of Ceremonies introducing the speakers.

Castro Valley was represented by Tulasi Venkatesh, Emon Dost, and Vivian Yang, while Redwood Christian High School was represented by Caleb Busch, Emilee Doehne and Cristiana Ramos.

Each speech represented an understanding of the 2023-24 Rotary International theme Create Hope In The World, and the Four-Way Test: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Judging good speeches to pick the best of the best is always difficult, but Castro Valley Rotarians Dwight Perry, Mark Poniatowski and Misti Short were up to the task. Marco Jaramillo kept time for the contestants, ensuring they stayed within the time parameters.

Emilee Doehne, a senior at Redwood Christian High School, was awarded first place and was awarded a check for $100. Emilee will represent the Rotary Club of Castro Valley at the yet to be confirmed Area Speech Contest between March 25 and April 5. The Area Winner will advance to the Regional Level and the winner at Regional Level will advance to the District Speech Meet. see ROTARY on page 11

Left to right: Mark Poniatowski, Vivian Chang, Dwight Perry, Cristiana Ramos, Emilee Doehne, Jeff Moore, Tulasi Venkatesh, Misti Short, Emon Dost, Maco Jaramillo, Caleb Bush.

PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISTIAN CARR

Jaime Badgett of Castro Valley

ON A MISSION: BACK ROW: Jackson Strange, Zach Kahn, Jeshua Hernandez, Travis Dong, Isaiah Bautista, Gavin Fanucchi MIDDLE ROW: Aidan Azraei, David Barquero, Jonathan Murray, Sophia Sautter, Cristiana Ramos, Timothy Pak, Jerryann Dania, Kristine Pak, Tori Hopken former Missions Teams member (RCHS Class of 2023) FRONT ROW: Dr. Evan Barnhart, Sydney Driggers, Eva Seganish, Emilee Doehne, Janine Ducusin, Micaiah Leyva.

ESTATE REALITY

By Carl Medford, CRS

Market Pundits Providing Contradictory Opinions

By Carl Medford, CRS

FIn contrast, Bill Adams, chief economist at Comerica Bank, believes prices will rise an average of 2.9%.

Chen Zhao, lead economist at Redfin agrees. “Housing sales are expected to increase a bit from this year. However,” she explains, “we are not expecting sales to increase

dramatically, as rates are likely to remain above 6 percent.” Larence Yun, chief economist at NAR (National Association of Realtors) is more bullish, stating, “There are simply not enough homes for sale.” As a result, he believes a 13% increase is in the offing this year.

Storybook home in Castro Valley’s coveted Upper Lake Chabot neighborhood with picturesque hill views. This 2-story charming home has over 2,359 square feet of living space, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms & a 2 car garage. Enjoy the comforts of the 2 downstairs living areas, one with a gas fireplace and enclave surrounded by windows & door to backyard. The other a formal living space is adjacent to the formal dining area w/slider to backyard, perfect for entertaining. Kitchen with oak cabinets & dining space overlooking the backyard. Upstairs, you will find one large primary suite with sweeping views, gas fireplace, 2 walk-in closets & bathroom with soaking tub & 3 additional spacious bedrooms & full hall bath. Backyard features newer redwood decking & concrete patio space w/garden boxes, the perfect place to relax, garden or enjoy. Additional home features include: vaulted ceilings, built-in storage, recessed lighting, sprinklered for fire, guest bathroom, laundry room & oversized storage shed. New Carpeting, interior paint & chandelier fixtures. 2 car garage with off street parking. Close proximity to Lake Chabot hiking trails, parks, transportation, easy freeway access, stores, schools & restaurants. All this & so much more!

Laurie Pfohl 510-851-3551

We are already seeing price increases locally. From January 1st, 2024 to February 29th, 2024, Hayward single family homes were listed at an average of $1,056,524 and sold for an average of $1,090,195. This represents an increase of 3.19% in only two months. Castro Valley

2966 Dominic Ct., Castro Valley • $1,328,000

Cathy Brent Team 510-381-1065

Cathy@CathyBrent.com

DRE #01088138 www.cathybrent.com

Kathi Townsend: 510-333-9404 / kathi.townsend@BHHSDrysdale.com / DRE #01409032

Wayne Licsak: 510-303-7765 / wayne.licsak@BHHSDrysdale.com / DRE #01850870

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

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

increased from $1,171,161 to $1,201,973, a 2.63% boost. San Leandro jumped from $836,853 to $868,866, up 3.83%, while San Lorenzo

saw the biggest rise from $783,765 to $838,879, a huge 7.03% gain for a short period of time. Looking at the county as a whole, the average gain

• Flowers Sow or transplant perennials such as coralbells, coreopsis, delphiniums, foxgloves, hollyhocks, lupines and Iceland poppies. A good selection of perennials is available in six-packs, 4-inch pots and one-gallon cans at local nurseries and garden centers.

• Vegetables

Sow seeds for beets, carrots, chard, herbs, lettuces, green onions, parsley, peas, spinaches and turnips.

• Cuttings

Start some new plants by rooting 3-to-4-inch long stem cuttings of dianthus, dusty miller, spurge, blue marguerite, fuchsias, geraniums, lavenders, chrysanthemums, sedums and succulents. Pinch or cut off the lowest pair of leaves, then plant the cutting in a 2-inch pot mixture of moist peat and coarse sand. Put a clear plastic cup over the cutting to form a mini greenhouse until it roots. Keep the plant moist, but not soggy wet.

was 5.6%.

This trend is the opposite of what one might expect given the current interest rates. Historically, rising interest rates would free up inventory which, coupled with decreasing buyer demand due to higher mortgage rates would in turn bring prices down. However, a number of issues are keeping homes off the market, causing bidding wars on the few homes that are available. A Newark property just received 18 offers and saw a gain of $260,000 over list price while a South Fremont home garnered 42 offers and sold at $450,000 over asking.

Using the same time period of January and February, Alameda County saw 1,426 sales in 2021, 1,109 in 2022 (interest rates started rising in May, 2021), 752 in 2023 with a light bump in 2024 to 756 (due to the leap year). It is critical to remember that the decreasing numbers are not a result of fewer buyers: in reality, fewer sellers are choosing to sell, causing inventory to plummet.

Our recommendation is, instead of looking to national news sources, consult with a local Realtor who is more in tune with local conditions and pricing.

Proteas Perform Best with Proper Soil pH

By Buzz Bertolero The Dirt Gardener

QI would like to germinate the seeds of Protea, Eximia, Cynaroides and Leucospermum, if they’ll grow in this area. Can they be grown in large containers and then transplanted into the ground later if I decide? In addition, I have a disk of Smoke Primer but I’m not sure if it’s necessary?

ANative to Australia and South Africa, Proteas can be grown throughout the warmer areas of the Bay Area. They produce some of the most exotic flowers that one can use in arrangements. They’re an excellent landscape or container plant.

The biggest concerns in growing them is water, soil pH, nutrients and the winter cold.

Proteas love full sun and they’re a water-wise landscape

shrub, as long as they’re not over watered. With our clay soil, I’d hand water them instead of using an irrigation system to control the moisture. They like a soil that drains well; so, being planted in a container is ideal as the drainage is

perfect. Proteas are mostly acid-loving plants with a desirable pH around 5.0; however, some varieties prefer an alkaline condition (8.0). It is variety specific so you need to know ahead time what their needs are.

Potting soil tends to be around pH neutral, 7.0, so it would be beneficial to purchase a simple pH kit to determine what you have and then adjust for the specific variety.

Soil Sulfur, Magnesium Sulfate will lower the pH while Hydrated Lime increases the pH. You’ll need to follow the directions on the packaging for the amount you’ll need to add to make the necessary change.

Proteas require little fertilizer containing NPK — about an eighth to a quarter of the amount given to a typical ornamental plant(s). However, they do like higher levels of Magnesium, Iron and Sulfur.

Cold weather damage occurs with Proteas when the temperatures drop below 30°F, and few varieties tolerate temperatures below 20°F. Thus, it’s easier to protect these plants in

containers versus the ones planted in the ground.

The container size is determined by the ultimate growth habit of the variety. A one-gallon to 12-inch pot for the small- to medium-size varieties and 15 gallon or 24-inch pot for the larger ones.

The seedling will need to be transplanted several times until you reach the final size.

The Smoke Disk Primer is not only necessary for germination, it’s a requirement. Proteas produce a seed dormant and needs very specific conditions for germination.

In 1990, researchers realized that the chemicals in smoke from the South African bush wildfires, called fynbos, and not just the heat of the fire was responsible for breaking seed dormancy and stimulating germination.

The smoke seed primer solution contains a combination of natural substances that overcome dormancy and stimulate seed germination. So, I’d put it to use.

Other than the root rot problem from water, Proteas are pretty easy to grow with few, if any, pests or diseases.

BUZZ BERTOLERO

Proteas are very easy to grow and rarely have problems with pests or diseases.

ADVERTISE WITH EAST BAY PUBLISHING AND REACH OVER 65,000 ADVERTISEWITHEASTBAYPUBLISHINGANDREACHOVER60,000 ADVERTISE WITH EAST BAY PUBLISHING AND REACH OVER 60,000

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

S.L. CONCRETE SERVICE Driveways, Sidewalks, Stamped Concrete, Retaining Walls, Tree and Drain Service. Lic.#982202. 510856-8937.

CONTRACTOR SERVICE

NOTICETO READERS

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.

GARDENING

*BEAUTYGARDEN LANDSCAPING

Design - Construction - Maintenance. Cleanups, New Lawn, Artificial Grass, Irrigation, Patios, Pathways, Brick, Stone, Concrete Fence/ Decks. Free Estimates! Lic.#925130. 510-691-8852. www.beautygardenlandscaping.com

Dormant Pruning Professional hand pruning and cleanup. Landscape design/install. Katsura Landscaping CL#.858145 Call Mike 510-828-4854.

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

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NAVA'SCOMPLETE LANDSCAPING: Mowing, trees, cleanup, hauling, FREE estimates. 510 512-5857.

GIVEAWAYS

FREE - Two fish tanks {20 - 30 gallon} with stands, also beautiful dark wood medium size china hutch. Call 510-909-4409.

HANDYMAN SERVICE

HANDYMAN/ LANDSCAPING

SERVICE. Maintenance, Cleanups, Hauling, Fences, Decks/ Patios, Painting, Repairs, Tree Work, Concrete. 510-712-4318.

HAULING SERVICE

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

HELP WANTED

The City of San Leandro is now accepting online applications for:

Lifeguard$18.00 – $21.88 hourly

Recreation Specialist I$20.88 - $25.38 hourly

For more detailed information, please visit www.sanleandro.org. EOE

MISC. FOR SALE

LP’s - 10 for $50. Jazz, Vocals, Sinatra, etc. Great condition. Call 510654-1951.

Wood dresser with 4 drawers $9, office chair - $7, small book shelf $6. Call 510-566-6678 to leave message.

6” jointer with 40” cast iron table. Need refurbishing. $50 o.b.o. Contact pszutu@gmail.com

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)

MISC. WANTED

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

RENTALS

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

SERVICES

HANDYMAN & CONTRACTORS

You can run a classified ad for a little as $30 a week. Your ad runs in both of our newspapers, the Castro Valley Forum on Wednesday and the San Leandro Times on Thursday. You can also save $5 by placing your ad on our website at castrovalleyforum.com or sanleandrotimes.com. We’ll call you for your credit or debit card info for payment.

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

YOUR INFO

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

DON’T LET ANOTHER WEEK SLIPBY!

– Avacancy day is money lost forever –

To place an ad call 510-614-1558

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

LANDLORDS

RENTALS

AFFORDABLE HOUSING in SAN LEANDRO!

The waitlist has opened at Marea Alta, a conveniently located affordable apartment community with Studios, 1BR, 2BR, and 3BR units, located next to San Leandro BART station—walkable to shopping and services. Rents range from $930-$1,711/ month. Amenities include a children’s play area, on-site childcare facility, bicycle storage, community room with full kitchen, and shared courtyard. Marea Alta offers a preference to households with at least 1 member who currently lives and/or works in the City of San Leandro. 6 units available for mobility-impaired households; 5 for hearing-impaired households.

Visit bridgehousing.com/marea-alta to download a pre-application or pick one up in person Mon-Fri b/w 9a-5p at Marea Alta: 1400 San Leandro Blvd., San Leandro. For more info, call 510686-9970.

Preference, income and other restrictions apply. Section 8 welcome. EHO.

MAC: Garbage

continued from front page

The project site is approximately a half-acre (in an area is zoned for up to 29 units per acre). One of the 11 units will be earmarked for affordable housing.

Developer Patrick Sullivan is utilizing the California Density Bonus Law, which provides an incentive for affordable housing development. The density bonus is a state mandate, and the MAC can’t amend the approval to exclude it. Without the density bonus, only 8 units would have been allowable.

As with many higher-density housing and in-fill projects around town, neighbors on Anita Avenue expressed concern about parking and crowding.

Another major issue discussed on Monday was garbage pickup. CV San says they can’t service large dumpsters in the development, so residents would use individual cans in the street for weekly pick-up. With recycling and green waste separate, that could mean upwards of 30 bins.

However, the developers said recycling containers could be combined and landscapers would be responsible for green waste. The MAC said the developer “bent over backward” to address crowding concerns but that they are simply an ongoing reality with high-density projects.

“The whole neighborhood is overloaded,” said MAC member Ken Carbone. “There’s nothing wrong with the project; it’s just that this will be a problem with all high-density.”

The state has mandated that 4,000 additional housing units be built in Castro Valley over the next several years.

The townhomes will consist of one-—and two-story units with attached garages and three-story townhomes with a ground-level garage and two stories above.

The discussion then turned to the future of Castro Valley’s mainstay, Rudy’s Donuts.

Applicant Jennifer Young wants to convert the 3692 Castro Valley Boulevard property into a dental office space.

When the plan was first discussed a few months ago, there was a public outcrymany in the community have been visiting the donut shop for decades.

“I think that property should remain a donut shop,” said public speaker Leroy Robinson, who frequents the spot. “It’s been established for many

years in Castro Valley as a gathering place.”

MAC member Tojo Thomas even called Rudy’s a “historical site.”

However, despite its ongoing popularity, Young claims the family-run shop appears to be winding down, and the next generation is not planning to continue the business.

“Rudy’s doesn’t want to buy the building,” said Young. “I understand people’s attachment- maybe another donut shop will come in, but we can’t force it.”

The MAC encouraged Young to preserve the space’s retail aspect, as shops, not medical uses, surround the area of the Boulevard.

She submitted two plans, one with the dental office to the

side and retail space fronting the Boulevard and another with both uses sharing the frontage.

Also, at Monday’s meeting, the MAC gave Patti’s Swim School the go-ahead to continue operating despite not being in total compliance with county regulations.

The school, located in a residential area at 4621 James Avenue, may continue providing swimming lessons to community youth despite issues regarding compliance with signage, safety regulations, and the Americans with Disabilities Act, among other factors.

“It’s a wonderful business, but it’s (currently) a wonderful unpermitted business,” said Mulgrew.

The school does continue to offer classes during this time.

The permitting matter had already been before the MAC in January, and staff said that owner Patricia O’Brien was working steadily toward compliance. The business was also eligible for hardship exemptions for compliance in some matters.

Previously, the Alameda County Department of Environmental Health sent O’Brien multiple notices of violation, saying the facility lacked appropriate finishes in a lavatory, drinking water, a hook and life ring in the pool, capacity signage, and more.

Additionally, neighbors complained of customers taking up street parking at the school, which is located in a residential area.

The MAC unanimously agreed that the matter could be referred to the County Board of Zoning Adjustments, as they believe compliance will be achieved shortly.

Pleasanton Murder Suspect Takes His Own Life on I-580

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

A woman is dead after her estranged boyfriend shot her and then took his own life on I-580 last Thursday, leaving their child orphaned, according to Pleasanton Police.

According to a police report, the names, ages, and other details are being withheld at the family’s request and confidentiality laws.

It all started around 11:10 a.m. on March 7, when the woman’s neighbor called the police about gunshots at a residence on Saginaw Circle near West Las Positas Boulevard. Officers found the woman alone inside the home—unresponsive with multiple gunshot wounds. Police say her boyfriend forced entry through a sliding door in the back of her house, and, during an argument, he shot her several times before fleeing in a black sedan car.

An unmarked Pleasanton Police car spotted the man’s vehicle driving away from the scene and followed him onto westbound Interstate 580. The California Highway Patrol, San Leandro Police Department, and the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office also responded to assist. Officers followed the vehicle until it collided with the center median and came to a stop on I-580 westbound near Miramonte Avenue at about 11:30 a.m.

Officers attempted to communicate with the man, but he did not respond. They then used tear gas, but there continued to be no response from the driver. At about 12:25 p.m., officers approached the vehicle and discovered the driver had died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Traffic on I-580 through Castro Valley and San Leandro came to a standstill for several hours while the coroner and police removed the suspect and his vehicle. Westbound lanes of the freeway remained closed at 164th Avenue, and eastbound lanes were closed at 150th Avenue for several hours. Traffic returned to normal after 6 p.m.

The victim and the suspect have a child in common, and the child is now with relatives, Pleasanton Police said. In a statement, they added that the family has asked for privacy as they mourn the loss of their loved one.

In support of the family, Pleasanton Police Chief David Swing said the department would not be releasing the names of the involved parties in accordance with confidentiality laws of domestic violence.

“This is a tragic incident,” said Chief Swing, “We encourage those in an abusive relationship and those affected by domestic violence to contact their local police department or local advocacy group for assistance.”

Applicant

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Re: Typical Behavior of MAGA Supporter

In response to Typical Behavior of MAGA Supporter (Forum February 28). I believe in Freedom of Speech. We are all entitled to our opinion. However, Mr. Thomas’ Letter is downright nasty, inaccurate, and inappropriate in his criticism of Ms. Antonucci’s replies suggesting that she is like a Hitler supporter.

It would appear that Trump haters are not willing to look at the good things that Trump has done for this country. The choice for President should be obvious. I know that I’m not going to change anyone’s presidential preference. Perhaps one way for the left to look at the candidates is to ask themselves who is the lesser of two disappointing choices. Who has done more for this country? Trump. Who has hurt this country more? Biden.

One recent example of Biden’s incompetence: “Special Counsel finds Biden ‘willfully’ disclosed classified documents but no criminal charges warranted.” (CBS News, 2/8/2024) “Joe Biden carelessly handled classified materials found at his home and former

office and shared government secrets with his ghostwriter.” (Washington Post, 2/8/2024)

“The special counsel said Mr. Biden’s conduct “present[ed] serious risks to national security, given the vulnerability of extraordinarily sensitive information to loss or compromise to America’s adversaries…” “Prosecutors said it was possible that Mr. Biden would ‘present himself to a jury, as he did during our interview of him, as a sympathetic, well-meaning, elderly man with a poor memory.’ During his interview with Hur, the special counsel wrote that the president was confused about the timeline of events and was unable to ascertain questions about his time as vice president.”

(CBS News, 2/8/2024)

Ignoring Biden’s incompetence means that you are willing to accept his open border policies, possibly getting us into World War III, and his financial bankrupting our country and its citizens. Please reconsider who you want as your next president.

–Ken Owen, Castro Valley

What Has Happened to Our Marketplace?

Last March 2023, the town was looking forward to the newly remodeled Marketplace. With new restaurants, a plant shop, a meat market, a grocery store, a coffee and loose leaf tea shop, and wine tasting galore.

Inside the building there were so many towns people one could barely get the door open to see what all the fuss was about.

Having lived in Castro Valley since 1997, buying our first home my husband and I were over the moon with all the activity promised from the opening of the long over due remodeled “Marketplace”.

To date, one year later as my husband and I wandered through the Marketplace; we looked at each other and began to tear up. What has happened? No hustle, nor bustle not

nearly a person in sight. Countless stores were closed. Down stairs the wine shop welcomes you with iron gates. The upstairs floor a ghost town. Completely cleared out, baren. On the first floor there is a proposed pizza parlor still waiting to be open. And yet the only thing open was the floor space. Empty cement floors with holes in the walls, and empty boxes spread about.

One small (sweet) shop owners stated, “she was promised activity when she moved in and suddenly found herself working in a warehouse”.

Please help me understand, what my friends and neighbors has happened to our Marketplace?

–Vallorie Kalos, Castro

Valley

‘Fear Tactic’ Used by Mr. Robert Thomas

Dear Editor,

As a lifelong Democrat, until Trump came along, I recognize the “Fear Tactic” used by Mr. Robert Thomas. The Democrats want to ban our Second Amendment rights, and that is the first step to a Nazi dictatorship. Since Biden has been in office, I don’t recognize my America. When Trump was in office, our country was thriving and at peace. Now, we don’t really know who is running our country.

Biden is nothing more than a puppet for his handlers. Trump recognizes the demise of our country, and it is refreshing to hear his plans to put us on the right track. I could care less about his colorful personality or the many legal attacks brought by the liberals to block him. After all is said and done, you can’t keep a good man down. Save America. Vote Trump!

–Claudia

Antonucci, Castro Valley

FROM THE BOULEVARD

Other Side of Mt. Diablo

By Thomas Lorentzen SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

It is always interesting to discover new things, including those that are in proximity to us. It reveals that regardless of the largess we have in our knowledge bank, there is more to learn. Recognizing this factor helps to keep us humble and curious about the multifarious things we do not know, as well as the importance of lifetime learning and discovery. With this view expressed, for the last few years I have been spending time with friends who live in Discovery Bay, which is east of Mt. Diablo. We here in the East Bay live to the west of the fabled mountain. Spending time on the other side of the mountain has opened my eyes to a new perspective of the mountain, as well as life around it. For my entire life, I have looked at the mountain from the west. After multiple visits with my friends, I have realized that the mountain looks different from the east. The same with life that is east of Diablo.

Dear Editor,

The parking at the Post Office is very limited. At busy times, especially Holiday season, cars are backed onto the street , waiting for a spot. I have noticed that there are 8 plus employee cars taking up the prime spots next to the building. They are backed in with sun-

shades deployed. Another 2+ spots reserved for management. These spots are taken away from public business use ALL DAY. Management should require employees to park in the fenced area or on surface streets. All day parking should not be allowed for anyone.

–Michael Evans, Castro Valley

During my first few visits, I referenced being on the back side of Diablo. From their perspective, they live on the front side. To them, we in the East Bay live on the back side. They made an interesting point. Perspective is based on place. John Steinbeck stressed that in East of Eden. An added awareness also emerged. It is that from the west, there appears to be one peak at its top. To the east it has two peaks. Again, perspective is based on place.

cannot see, as she has a more experienced view than I do. Again, perspective is beholden to place.

During a recent visit, I decided to go to a local winery. I was not expecting much. I am quite liberal when it comes to wine. I like most everything. Nonetheless, I do appreciate wine that is exceptional. Given this perspective, the wine at the local winery was one of the best I have had in years. To me, it was comparable in quality to those presented in places like Napa, Sonoma, Paso Robles, and Livermore. With that, I joined their wine club on the spot.

Other views have changed because of my visits. One is that I took the terrain for granted. There was nothing special about it to me. It appeared simplistic and mundane. Then, one of my friends pointed out something. She is an accomplished artist of both faces and places. She has spent time in the famed “South of France.” I have not. From her perspective, the area east of Mt. Diablo has similarities to the “South of France.” She sees what I

A lesson learned is that although we have a great hamlet here in Castro Valley, there are other places of discovery within our region. From what I have learned from my friend that is an artist, and from my visits to their home and terrain, “East of Diablo” has become the “South of France” that I never knew was there. With that, a new appreciation has emerged for a place and its people. This new awareness is like good wine. It has a good taste to it.

Rotary: New Individuals Welcomed

continued from page 5

The Castro Valley Rotary Club, chartered in 1953, is a non-political, non-religious humanitarian service organization that brings together individuals, business, and professional leaders, to provide

community service, promote integrity and advance worldwide goodwill, peace and understanding.

The Rotary Club of Castro Valley is currently providing hybrid meetings with both in-person luncheons at Red-

wood Canyon and online on Tuesdays at 12 noon. Speakers and links to meetings are posted at castrovalleyrotary.org.

The Club welcomes individuals who want to make a positive impact locally, nationally, and internationally.

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

CVHS Boys Varsity Soccer

Our Athletes of the Week are the Castro Valley High School Boys Varsity Soccer Team. On Tuesday, February 6, the Trojans honored their Seniors and defeated the San Leandro Pirates with a victory of 7-0. Most of these players have been playing the sport they love since they were 5 years old, and many have known each other for that long.

On February 14th, the 15th seed Trojans went on to play the 2024 California Interscholastic Federation North Coast Section Winter Boys Soccer ChampionshipsDivision 1 tournament but lost 0-3 against the 2nd seed Monte Vista High. The team finished the year with a 7-7-4 overall and a 6-6-3 in the league.

Primary: Prop. 1 Still Too Close to Call

continued from front page percent voting no. Those voters hoping to amend the current methods to recall county officials also got a boost. Yes votes for Measure B are currently 108,969 votes (64.53 percent) compared to the 59,894 No votes (35.47 percent).

Statewide, the votes were still too close to call on Proposition 1, which would earmark $6.38 billion in bonds to build mental health treatment facilities for those with mental health and substance use challenges and provide housing for the homeless. With more than a million votes still waiting to be counted, Proposition 1 remains up in the air. Currently, the initiative championed by Governor Gavin Newsom is narrowly leading, with 50.3 percent voting in favor compared to 49.6 percent opposed.

The Primary Election typically narrows the field to the top two candidates. So, despite large leads, some contests will be repeated in the November 5 General Election.

Assembly 20th District candidate Liz Ortega received 99% of vote.

Eric Swalwell-D, who represents Congressional District 14, has a commanding lead over challengers with 66.07 percent of the vote. His next largest challenger is Republican Vin Kruttiventi, who has 17.81 percent of the vote.

This November, the contest for Diane Feinstein’s U.S. Senate seat will be between Adam Schiff-D and former baseball player Steve Garvey-R. Schiff holds 32.3 percent of the vote,

Vanegas: Drafted by Dodgers in 2014

continued from front page Vanegas reached his peak at Stanford in 2012, his sophomore season, when he went 4-0 with a 2.62 earned run average and made the NCAA Regional All-Tournament team. That summer, playing in the Cape Cod semi-pro league, he clocked 100 mph on his fastball, and his career seemed to be soaring—until he injured his back and had to undergo surgery.

A.J.’s junior year at Stanford – when he was hoping to establish himself as a full-time starting pitcher – was basically a lost season. Trying to rehab his back, he began having shoulder problems and was able to pitch a total of only five innings. He also saw the velocity of his fastball begin to diminish. He still managed a decent senior season as the Cardinal closer

(4-3, 2.63 ERA), but his stock as a professional had fallen considerably.

Drafted by the Dodgers in the 11th round in 2014, Vanegas signed for $100,000 – a far cry from what the Padres had offered four years earlier. But he has no regrets.

“My Stanford experience was amazing,” he said. “It set the trajectory for my life and taught me that you don’t make decisions based solely on money.”

Vanegas pitched three seasons in the minor leagues, two with Single-A Rancho Cucamonga, the Dodgers’ Single-A affiliate in the California League. While his minor league record was an impressive 5-1 with a 2.62 ERA, his shoulder problems kept landing him on the Disabled List until he finally called it quits in July

of 2016. He already had undergone two surgeries and figured that was enough.

Since graduating from Stanford with a psychology degree and pitching three seasons in the minors, Vanegas has earned a Master of Divinity from Western Seminary and was ordained in 2023. He and his wife, Laura, live in San Leandro with their three daughters: Ellie, 4; Olivia, 2; and Jocelyn, 3 months.

This is the 14th in a series of 16 articles profiling the 2024 inductees into the Castro Valley Sports Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame ceremonies and banquet will be held on Sunday, April 21, at Redwood Canyon Golf Course. For tickets, go to castrovalleysportsfoundation.org and click “Events, Hall of Fame Banquet.”

while Garvey has 31.7 percent. Congresswoman Katie Porter garnered 15 percent of the vote, while Barbara Lee received 8.9 percent.

In the race for California State Senate 9th District (Contra Costa County, San Leandro, Castro Valley, and San Lorenzo), Contra Costa County Assemblymember Tim Grayson has a lead of 52.58 percent over San Ramon Councilmember Marisol Rubio, but both are expected to repeat the contest in November.

State Assembly 20th District candidate Liz Ortega received 99.78 percent of the vote.

However, because write-in candidate Sangeetha Shanbhogue received 0.22 percent, voters will see these two candidates again in November.

Because the state now provides mail-in ballots to all registered voters, the county Registrar of Voters reported its vote-by-mail turnout was 175,537. Officials said an additional 19,365 people turned out to the polls.

CANYON,

CREEKSIDE GIRLS BASKETBALL

CHAMPS: This season, the JV Girls Basketball teams from Castro Valley’s two middle schools– Canyon and Creekside– made it to the championships. They played against each other in the regular season on February 27, where Creekside defeated Canyon. In the Championship game on March 8, Canyon took the trophy. Fun fact: half of the girls on the Canyon team and half of the girls from Creekside play on the same CYO basketball team for Transfiguration in Castro Valley.

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

PHOTO COURTESY OF JEN BENSON