March 20, 2024

in

5

YEAR 36

INSIDE

New Book

Longtime CV resident’s eye-opening book on America’s presidents

Page 2

New Rules

Medi-Cal abandons

its asset test for all categories of Medi-Cal

Gym Cues

Five common gym

cues and why they’re important to know

INDEX

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

Classified Ads ........ 8

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

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

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

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

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

Sports .................. 12

Weather ................ 2

Women .................... 5

PHOTO BY MICHAEL SINGER

Downtown: Big or Small?

Should Castro Valley’s business district go big or stay small? Last Wednesday, more than 50 people crammed into a meeting room at the library to debate the issue and begin to narrow down the amenities and features they want to define the middle of town.

“I encourage people to think about our children and families,” said resident Silvia Lambert. “We’re not going to compete for business with cities like Oakland or Berkeley because we are a bedroom community. But we can create something special here… a place where parents want to settle down and raise families.”

The business district covers 290 acres and is see DOWNTOWN on page 5

MAC MEETING

Property Crime Up 7% in CV

By Amy Sylvestri CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Crime is down overall in Castro Valley, but property crimes continue to plague the area, according to an update given to the Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) by the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office at Monday night’s meeting.

Sergeant Marcus Cox gave the MAC a statistical breakdown of 2023’s crime numbers, reporting that total “person crimes” such as murder and assault are down 23 percent from 2022.

“Crimes against people are usually targeted, and the public’s fear shouldn’t be there,” said Cox.

However, property crimes are up 7 percent, including robberies and car break-ins.

Cox lamented the “decriminalization” of property crimes and said that shoplifting and “bipping” (the breaking of a car window to smash and grab belongings inside) lately go unprosecuted due to state mandates on felony minimum thefts.

“We are feeling that,” said Cox. “Castro Valley itself is feeling that.”

He added that Safeway, TJ Maxx, Ross, see MAC on page 11

LaPonte’s Journey: CVSC to National League

By Dave Del Grande SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

A funny thing happened when Jen LaPonte received a call recently from a member of the Castro Valley Sports Hall of Fame selection committee. She wondered if they wanted to talk to her mom or her dad.

No doubt, dad Lance is worthy of consideration based on having been a standout threesport athlete at Castro Valley High before graduating to be-

come a college All-American. And mom Debbie, too, after having been one of the best runners in the country for her age group as a Castro Valley youth. Heck, even older sister Jessica was a Junior Olympian as a cross country runner.

But Jen LaPonte, who has taken the path from the Castro Valley Soccer Club to the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) despite encountering many hurdles, can trump them all. And that’s why she got the call.

Not without the family’s help, mind you.

“I’m super-fortunate with what my parents gave me,” assures a true Castro Valley native who was even born in town. “I played for clubs in Mountain View, Danville … They drove me everywhere. I even started out homeschooled so I could have a better schedule. There is nothing I could have done without them. They have given me everything.”

That included time to dabble

in gymnastics and compete in track and cross country in high school—all when the family wasn’t wakeboarding or snowboarding somewhere.

But LaPonte preferred soccer, she says, because “I just loved the physicality of it. And it’s a tactical game, too. It makes you use your talents not just physically but mentally as well, which I enjoyed.”

Most of the time, such as when the 2008 Castro Valley High graduate, a defender most see LAPONTE on back page

Jen

LaPonte

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

CASTRO VALLEY FORUM CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

www.mycvforum.com/donate

Longtime CV Resident Pens Book on Political Peculiarities

By Linda Sandsmark CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

A timely book documenting the previously little-known quirks, foibles, and bravery of America’s past presidents will be released on April 2. It is written by longtime Castro Valley resident Gerald S. Henig, professor emeritus of History at Cal State University East Bay, who spent six years researching and writing it.

“I’ve written three or four previous books, all of which were designed for academics or specialized audiences,” says Henig. “With this book, I wanted to appeal to as many people as possible, to a general nonfiction-reading audience. It reveals information and presidential peculiarities the average reader would be unaware of.”

“America’s Presidents:

What Your History Teacher

Never Told You” has received enthusiastic reviews. It covers dimensions of the presidency many people don’t learn about in school. Henig approached

topics in categories, such as reluctant candidates, presidents who crossed paths before coming to power, infidelities, and political peculiarities. Most, but not all, previous presidents were included.

Henig says he hopes that in this pivotal election year, the information he’s unearthed might help readers rethink their vague, often inaccurate notions about our former chief executives. Perhaps it will spur voters to more closely scrutinize the backgrounds of candidates currently seeking the presidency.

“I couldn’t have timed the publication date any better,” he says.

Henig will host a book launch event at Cal State East Bay on Saturday, April 20, starting at 1 p.m. The event will include a book talk, Q&A, and a book signing. It is free and will be held in the CORE-University Library. Free parking should be available off West Loop Road, Lot 8. Space is limited, so arrive early to get a seat.

Henig received his undergraduate degree from Brooklyn College, his master’s from the University of Wisconsin, and his Doctorate from the Graduate Center, City University of New York. He taught history at Cal State East Bay for 40 years. Henig began his career there at age 27 in 1970, when he arrived from the East Coast for what was supposed to be a one-year assignment. The rest, as they say, is history. Described as a professor “who has been collecting facts to see BOOK on back page

Meals on Wheels Seeks Volunteers

By John Schinkel-Kludjian SOS MEALS ON WHEELS

SOS Meals on Wheels, the provider of home-delivered senior nutrition in the San Leandro and Castro Valley, needs more kitchen volunteers to keep up with the demand for

service. The work is rewarding, fun, and flexible, and meets a pressing need in our community of providing homebound seniors with a nutritious meal and wellness check.

We are proud to keep saying ‘yes’ to the homebound older adults in San Leandro and

Castro Valley who need us most, but with this comes an increased need for volunteer support.

As you may know, the SOS Meals on Wheels kitchen is a joint effort of staff and volunteer teams. Staff cooks, cleans, and plans for the over 1,800 meals we serve daily, but rely heavily on our dedicated volunteers to portion, pack, and seal our meals five days a week.

Monday through Friday, volunteers come to our San Leandro kitchen starting at 9am, and work on our tray line for about 2.5 hours. Ideally, we would have about five volunteers a day. Currently, we are falling short of that goal, with Thursdays and Fridays being the most challenging to fill. The work is fun and rewarding, all taking place in a see MEALS on page 3

Gerald S. Henig

Trail Challenge Designated as Half Marathon Championship

The Castro Valley Sports Foundation (CVSF) is proud to announce the 40th Annual Lake Chabot Trail Challenge Half Marathon has been selected as the 2024 Road Runners Club of America (RRCA)

California State Trail Half Marathon Championship.

Lake Chabot Trail Challenge Race Director and CVSF President stated “Get ready for an epic 40th annual event. The

Road Runners Club of America is the oldest and largest national association of runners and running organizations dedicated to growing the sport of running since 1958. This is a huge deal for our race and a testament to its quality.”

The event will take place on June 2 at Lake Chabot (17404 Lake Chabot Road, CV). The Half Marathon begins at 8am, followed by a 5K at 8:30am.

Support Castro Valley youth athletics and experience this top-tier event – register at: runsignup.com/Race/CA/ CastroValley/LakeChabotTrailChallenge. Sponsorship info online at: castrovalleysportsfoundation.org/trail-challenge. All proceeds benefit youth athletics in CV. We challenge all of our local businesses to join us in our mission and be part of something bigger.

Meals: Opportunities for Volunteers

continued from previous page supportive, teamwork-focused environment. This is a fantastic opportunity for groups! We regularly host groups of up to 30 people from nearby companies, service clubs, and even families looking to give back together.

So, will you join us for a shift? Please spread the word

to anyone or any group you think may be interested, and please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have. Sign up today and start tomorrow. Visit sosmow. org/volunteer. For additional information, please contact John Schinkel-Kludjian at 510-244-0165 or via email at John@sosmow.org.

Sheriff’s Reports

COMPILED BY MICHAEL SINGER • CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Stolen Property and Resisting Arrest

Monday, March 18: At 1:54 a.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested a 42-year-old man from Castro Valley on suspicion of stolen property and resisting arrest. The man was caught leaving a retail store on Castro Valley Boulevard near Chester Street with unpaid merchandise. When deputies attempted to handcuff the man, he became confrontational. The man was taken into custody.

Luck Runs Out for Two Following Traffic Stop

Sunday, March 17: At 2:34 p.m., a 35-year-old woman and a 46-year-old man were arrested following a traffic stop on Cameron Street near Grove Way. Deputies charged the woman with driving a stolen vehicle and possessing an illegal stun gun, burglar tools, and illegal drug paraphernalia. The man was charged with possessing methamphetamine drugs and related paraphernalia. Deputies stopped the vehicle after running the plates. The couple were taken to Santa Rita Jail.

SOS Meals on Wheels is a 501c(3) organization. We foster the independence and dignity of older adults by reducing food insecurity, with daily nutritious meals, friendly visits, and connection to support services. We serve San Leandro, Castro Valley, San Lorenzo, Fremont, Newark, and Union City, Hayward, and Oakland.

Tried to Leave with Unpaid Merchandise

Saturday, March 16: At 8:09 p.m., deputies arrested a 34-year-old man without permanent residence on suspicion of shoplifting from a drug store in the Castro Village Shopping Center. Store security alerted deputies after the man left with unpaid merchandise. The man was taken into custody.

Drunk, with Drugs

Saturday, March 16: At 2:59 a.m., a 34-year-old CV man was arrested on suspicion of public intoxication, possessing illegal narcotics, and resisting arrest. Deputies responded to a noise complaint outside a home on Greenview Drive near Betlen Way and found the man under the influence of drugs and alcohol. The man became confrontational and was taken to Santa Rita Jail.

Vandalism Arrests

Saturday, March 16: At 12:57 a.m., deputies arrested three men from Castro Valley suspected of vandalism by shooting at and knocking around traffic signs on Charlene Way near Redwood Road. The men, aged 20, 19, and 19, were spotted by a neighbor and reported to the Sherrifs’s Department. Deputies took the three men into custody.

Busted for Evading Arrest

Tuesday, March 12: At 9:17 p.m., a 35-year-old man from Castro Valley was arrested on suspicion of evading arrest and driving with an expired license. Deputies stopped the man near the intersection of Castro Valley Boulevard and Foothill Boulevard for a traffic violation. The man tried to drive off, but deputies stopped him and took him into custody.

Attempted Robbery

Monday, March 11: At 3:50 p.m., deputies arrested a 36-year-old man on suspicion of attempted robbery at a gas station on Castro Valley Boulevard near Redwood Road. The man was caught on tape trying to rob the cashier. Deputies stopped the man and took him to Santa Rita Jail.

3321 Castro Valley Blvd

County Assessor Phong La To Speak with Rotary Club

On Tuesday, March 26, Alameda County Assessor, Phong La will speak with the Castro Valley Rotary Club about the work of the County Assessor’s Office. A buffet lunch and the program take place at Redwood Canyon Golf Course (17007 Redwood Road, CV) at 12 to 1:30pm. The cost of lunch is $20 and reservations must be made by 9pm on Sunday, March 24, by emailing: cvrotary@iCloud.com or call 510-402-5123. More info available at castrovalleyrotary.org.

Phong La was elected to serve as the Assessor for the County of Alameda in 2018 and is committed to making government work for the people of Alameda County. The work of the Assessor’s Office helps generate revenue for

Alameda County, its 14 cities, and six unincorporated communities. These major funds provide for crucial services such as schools; public health, social, and family support services; fire, police and sheriff departments; road maintenance; neighborhood improvements, and more.

Since taking office, Phong’s priorities include increasing customer service and office efficiency. Phong obtained his Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of California, Davis and his Juris Doctor from the UC Law San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings). Phong worked as an attorney in one of California’s largest real estate law firms, for the United States government, for a privately held real estate holding company, and his own small businesses.

Phong was born in Vietnam and came to the United States as a refugee at the age of two. He grew up in Union City, lived in Fremont for many years, and currently lives in Alameda with his wife Stephanie and two daughters.

Fri. & Sat., March 22 & 23

CVHS’ Production of ‘The Outsiders’

Don’t miss Emon Dost, Nick Warren and Wyatt Traski perform in CVHS’s production of the S. E. Hinton’s classic “The Outsiders” this Friday and Saturday, March 22 and 23 at 7pm. Tickets available at: CVCFA.com or call 510-889-8961.

Saturday, March 23

Soil Safety at Cherryland Eggstravaganza

Curious about the safety of your soil for gardening or kids’ activities? Please join us at the Cherryland Eggstravaganza on Saturday, March 23, from 11 am to 3 pm for a free, fast soil screening for lead. Bring a soil sample from your yard in a Ziploc bag, and we will screen it for lead. Our partners will be there to share information on: your soil test result, best practices to avoid lead exposure, tips to garden safely, resources for blood lead testing, and more! Location: Meek Estate Park in Cherryland neighborhood at 240 Hampton Rd., Hayward.

Saturday, March 23

“Rebel Girl” Elizabeth Hurley Flynn

Join U. S. Women’s History Professor Emerita Jane Wolford as she takes us on a journey through Flynn’s life and times. Elizabeth Gurley Flynn is best known for her labor activism but she was also involved in the fight for women’s rights. Visit the CV Library this Saturday from 1 to 2:30pm and learn more about her fascinating life.

Monday, March 25

Eden Garden Club Meeting

Eden Garden Club will hold a meeting

Monday, March 25, at 9:30am at Castro Valley United Methodist Church, 19806 Wisteria Street in Castro Valley. The speaker will be Lori Caldwell an Alameda County Master Composter and more. Lori will be talking about all the techniques to help with moisture retention, increasing soil tilth and feeding the soil food web. Meetings are free and guest are always welcome. Please call 510-397-1268 for further information.

Downtown: Much of Discussion Centered Around Growth without Congestion

continued from front page comprised of 765 parcels. It includes both sides of Castro Valley Boulevard from the so-called “Hamburger Island” on Stanton Avenue to Center Street, Eden Medical Center to the north, and Castro Valley BART to the south.

The Alameda County Community Development Agency (CDA) hosted the event. The overall objective is to implement the 2012 Castro Valley General Plan, which provides guidelines for smart growth patterns, preferences, and so-

cio-economic sustainability.

“This is the skeleton and the structure for land, use, and design, which we will combine with your feedback to help shape the preferred plan along with the vision and goals of the downtown plan,” said Kathryn Slama, director of Lisa Wise Consulting (LWC), the lead consultancy on the project along with representatives from planning agencies from Raimai + Associates and TJKM.

This was the second community workshop where the public was asked to add their

thoughts on what they would like to see. The first workshop was in May 2023, followed by an October presentation to the Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC).

Attendees cycled through four stations that focused on how to interpret Land Use, Mobility, Opportunity Sites, and Creating a Downtown.

Much of the room’s discussion centered on getting people into and out of the area without too much congestion, encouraging them to walk or ride a bike, and providing

multiple public meeting spaces. Since the last workshop, more people have commented on the lack of downtown parking, the possibility of narrowing the Boulevard into a two-lane road, and the encouragement of more local entrepreneurship.

“Small businesses are still hurting in our community.

If we don’t support small businesses with this plan, all that will be left will be big businesses,” said resident Stacy Poulos.

Attendees also expressed opportunities to develop the

western part of Castro Valley Boulevard between Stanton Avenue and San Miguel to include more housing, shops, and green space.

“Castro Valley can be as large as you want it. Anything is possible,” said Chamber president and CEO Gary Slate. “Cupertino is half the size of Castro Valley when Apple Computer started its business there.”

With public input from two sessions in hand, Slama said the consultants will now assemble a Preferred Plan and

Policy Framework that the MAC will review three times by March 2025. A Review Draft and Environmental Impact Report (EIR) are expected to be made public by June 2025, with another public input workshop planned for the summer of 2025. The MAC is expected to review all revisions twice and hold a few public hearings before the end of 2025 before the county issues the final plan in early 2026.

The project documents can be found on the website: https:// cvgpimplementation.com/

Judy Rose Realtor®

CRS, SRES • CA BRE# 00633313

• Over 40 Years Serving the Needs of Sellers and Buyers with Integrity.

• Certified Residential Specialist (only the top agents in the country earn this designation).

• Senior Real Estate Specialist Serving the needs of Seniors and their Families.

• Accredited Staging Professional and Design Consultant.

Offering Free Consultation for Sellers to Maximize your profits. Email: judy@judyrose.com

RE/MAX Accord • 510-220-6206

3327 Castro Valley Blvd., Castro Valley, CA 94546

Misti Short Owner

My passion of animals led me to own and operate my own Pet Spaw. It turned out to be so much fun just seeing how happy our pet owners are with our spaw results. Our services include:

In-House Grooming Spaw, Luxury Travel Grooming Spaw, Dog Training, and Cats Only Days.

We are in the process of expanding our business to include a ReTail Pet supply store called Wiggle Rumps ReTaiL a few doors down from our location. Wiggle Rumps Where Every Groom Ends With A Happy Wiggle!

CLASSY CANINE’S WIGGLE RUMPS • (510) 583-7297

2602 Castro Valley Blvd., C.V. • WiggleRumps.com

Anita “Kit” Thompson

Owner

Share your project idea and let’s make a beautiful quilt together!

I provide digital edge-to-edge longarm services to quilters to finish the quilt tops they have worked so hard on to piece together! I loveaddingdesignandtexturetomakeyourquilttopreallyshine!

Or upcycle your cherished clothing into a beautiful quilt! Those favorite t-shirts that you just can’t bear to throw away or cherished clothing from a loved one to wrap yourself in comfort, are perfect for a custom keepsake quilt!

Kitty Ani Kreativ Longarm & Quilting Services • 510-459-5357 kittyanikreativ@gmail.com • www.kittyanikreativ.com

Lynnette Bailey

Enrolled Agent (EA), Owner

Bailey’s Bookkeeping Plus offers Tax Preparation (Individual, Partnership, Corporate, Fiduciary), a ‘One Stop’ personalized service to small businesses. A stand out tax preparer and full-charge bookkeeping office. We prepare payroll, payroll tax forms, sales tax reporting and filing. Furnishing financial statements, managing accounts payables and receivables. Lynnette is an Enrolled Agent, a Notary Public and a Quick Books Pro Advisor. Lynnette worked for a local San Leandro CPA firm for over 30 years before starting her own business 10 years ago . www.LynnetteBailey.com

Bailey’s Bookkeeping Plus • 510-281-0701

123 Estudillo Ave. #225, Best Building, San Leandro

Monica Gioukaris

REALTOR®

DRE#: 02098690

25+ years experience in customer service, sales, real estate investing, and building. Dedicated to helping buyers, sellers, and investors.

Strong negotiator, modern methods, and social media savvy. Passion for first-time home buyers. Family-oriented, volunteer,sports fan, and cooking enthusiast.

COMPASS • 510.882.2939 monica@moniluvrealestate.com

Tianne Rinetti-Vittoria

REALTOR® / Owner

I realized long ago that I had a unique opportunity to enter in what has become a fantastic family business. My father started his own destiny back in 1968 when he began his Real Estate journey. By 1970, he opened up Rinetti & Co Realtors which has now become a generational family business that I couldn’t be prouder of. It was in 1999 that I made the decision to contribute and learn how to succeed, carry out a strong code of ethics, respect of others, and the industry that has become my life for the past 25 years.

Honestly, I have never looked back! I bring my own passion to working with others, creating an experience, designing a devising a thoughtful plan for selling and buying & forging relationship that last well beyond a working relationship. I will always remember where this love and commitment for Real Estate came from. I believe our company, Rinetti & Company is unique in that way. We all encourage each others strengths share our experiences and encourage one another to succeed. We strive to do our best, help others find their dream homes, move on to their next home and create a new future. Thank you to all our past clients for your continued support and all of those we look forward to helping now and in the future.

Rinetti & Co. Realtors • (510) 568-6171

(510) 329-4158

• www.RinettiCo.com • trinetti@sbcglobal.net

Cindy Kellar Realtor • DRE #01456637

Meet Cindy, your top choice for tailored real estate excellence. With 19+ years of experience, she’s committed to providing unique, client-focused service. She excels in getting sellers the highest returns, and for those needing home renovations before selling, she offers a concierge service (an interest free property prep loan for Sellers)

Cindy understands that every client and property is unique, ensuring a customized approach for buyers, sellers, and investors. Her dedication is unparalleled, making her more than just an agent – she’s your trusted advisor and partner.

Choose Cindy for a seamless real estate experience. Contact her today to unlock the full potential of your real estate investments.

Everhome Real Estate • 510-301-3456

cindy@everhomere.com

JENNY KIM HONG

IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY

I am the owner of a small boutique immigration law firm in San Leandro. I focus my practice to 100% immigration law, as I am committed to providing my clients with high-level, attorney-driven representation, allowing us to provide an individualized solution and success-driven outcome. We

pride ourselves on our 99% approval rate. I enjoy assisting families, employers and business owners obtain legal residence, citizenship or naturalization, as well as other nonimmigrant visas. I chose “Omega” as the name to represent the beginning and end solution to one’s immigration needs. After having moved my business to San Leandro from the San Jose area, I am enjoying the variety of clientele from San Leandro, Castro Valley, Hayward, Oakland, and neighboring cities. Our services also include: free consultations and Spanish-speaking legal assistants.

Omega Immigration Law, APC • (510) 567-4646 14895 E. 14TH ST., SUITE 240 • SAN LEANDRO, CA 94578 (same parking lot as Western Dental building and Mel’s Diner)

Lupita Garcia

Funeral Arranger

With almost 32 years of experience as a professional administrative accountant, Lupita earned a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, and worked with the Administrative Department of the Consulate General of Mexico for over 15 years. Impressed by her education, extensive experience and dedication as a committed employee, Lupita joined the Santos-Robinson Mortuary staff in March 2023. Competent in many areas of the business, Lupita is a fluent Spanish speaker which allows her to help, and guide, our Spanish-speaking community in planning the funeral services of their loved ones. We understand how difficult these times can be for families and Lupita’s main goal is serving families in an exceptional manner with both compassion and professionalism.

Santos-Robinson Mortuary • (510)483-0123

160 Estudillo Avenue, San Leandro

Email: santosrobinson@sbcglobal.net

Professional Representation is Critical

professional service providers, Realtors are required to carry extensive insurance.

Every year we encounter those who, when considering selling their home, decide they want to sell on their own to save the cost of commissions. “How hard can it be?”, they reason.

The answer? That depends.

The first consideration is the fact that selling a home is fraught with potential litigation. California’s real estate laws are the strictest in the Union and, if not fully understood, could lead to dire legal consequences with financial ramifications significantly higher than a commission. Due to this reality, like any

The second factor is experience. While a person may be looking to sell one home –their own – our region contains real estate agents who have personally sold well over a thousand homes in their career. They will be quick to provide examples of transactions gone wrong along with their actions to getting things back on the rails. Imagine any of the following:

The home you are preparing to sell backs to a right-ofway and, during the process of preparation, a homeless encampment is set up directly behind your property. Making

things worse, the new ‘neighbors’ begin hopping the fence, breaking into the home, stealing things and doing malicious damage.

The home you are selling is vacant and a neighbor, looking to make a fast buck, breaks in, changes the locks and ‘rents’ the property, requiring you to go through a legal eviction prosses to remove the ’tenants’.

The day before your sale is supposed to close, the buyer backs out.

The appraiser representing the buyer’s lender delivers an appraisal over $200,000.00 under the contract value, which threatens to blow up the sale.

Your next-door neighbor suddenly claims that a significant part of your front yard actually belongs to them – and they have the map to prove it.

In addition to the Inspection Reports you provided, the buyer decides to hire their own inspections and the new inspector finds $50,000 of damage missed by the previous inspector. Someone dies during the

transaction.

The buyer’s insurance company discovers an extra insurance claim on your property you were unaware of, causing them to refuse insurance coverage, making it impossible to close escrow.

These are all real situations handled by experienced real estate agents and, in every case, the transactions closed to their client’s satisfaction. My question? Why take a chance when professional representation could save the day?

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.

94544: $440,000 [2 BD - 730 SF - 1986

21391 Gary Drive #12 94546: $466,000 [2 BD - 936 SF - 1961

310 Lafayette Avenue 94544: $630,000 [3 BD - 927 SF - 1951

657 Atherton Place #413 94541: $675,000 [2 BD - 1,075 SF - 1997

22626 Amador Street #1 94541: $800,000 [3 BD - 1,538 SF - 2008

22584 Pearl Avenue 94541: $840,000 [1,255 SF - 1977

1339 Rieger Avenue 94544: $901,000 [3 BD - 1,399 SF - 1956

1917 Wingate Way 94541: $902,000 [3 BD - 1,462 SF - 1964

87 Revere Avenue 94544: $920,000 [3 BD - 1,221 SF - 1951

20151 Leif Lane 94541: $1,144,000

514 Kim Place 94544: $1,151,500 [4 BD - 2,094 SF - 1956

2136 Edgebrook Place 94541: $1,325,000 [4 BD - 2,308 SF - 1989

TOTAL SALES: 13

LOWEST AMOUNT: $227,000 MEDIAN AMOUNT: $840,000

HIGHEST AMOUNT: $1,325,000 AVERAGE AMOUN $801,653

San Leandro

1425 152nd Avenue 94578: $175,000 [2 BD - 1,131 SF - 1930

15925 Maubert Avenue #1 94578: $546,000 [2 BD - 1,050 SF - 1992

132 Castro Street 94577: $625,000 [2 BD - 1,152 SF - 1989

14329 Seagate Drive #191 94577: $665,000 [2 BD - 1,338 SF - 1984

485 Nabor Street 94578: $700,000 [2 BD - 865 SF - 1947

2081 Horne Street 94578: $715,000 [2 BD - 969 SF - 1948

14395 Locust Street 94579: $762,000 [3 BD - 1,096 SF - 1952

135 Farrelly Drive 94577: $780,000 [3 BD - 1,305 SF - 1947

1315 Dutton Avenue 94577:

Frequency of Watering May Be the Cause of Cucumber’s Bitter Taste

By Buzz Bertolero The Dirt Gardener

QLast year, we planted cucumbers and were disappointed. They had a bitter, odd taste. A neighbor suggested that the squash growing near them was pollinating them. Will moving the squash to a different location solve this problem?

AThe notion of relocating squash plants or not even planting them is not the answer to the bitter/ odd taste problem. This solution is also flawed. Cucumbers

ing amounts of this compound triggered by environmental stress. Environmental stress comes from high temperatures, heavy soil that is too wet, dry,

temperatures from mild to hot during the summer months. Bay Area gardeners tend to water with the same frequency regardless of the temperature. Yes, we

ten not severe. Note: Cucurbitin is often concentrated at the vegetable’s stem end and in the light green layer under the cucumber’s skin. You can limit the bitterness by peeling cucumbers from the blossom end toward the stem end and cutting off the last inch. It is best to rinse your peeling knife after each slice not to spread the bitter taste.

QWhat kitchen scraps should go into a compost pile? My mom

says only uncooked fruit and vegetable scraps, while I think anything is fair game, including chicken soup.

AMost kitchen wastes are fair game for a compost pile. So cooked and uncooked fruits and vegetables, and yes, even chicken soup, which is the solid portion, not the liquid, along with coffee grounds and filter, could be added. The items permanently excluded are animal feces from meat-eating animals, grease, other fats, and meats. Some kitchen wastes are better disposed of with a dispos-

al unit. I’d use the active(hot/ heat) or passive (cold) composting technique with garden trimmings, lawn clippings, and solid kitchen waste. If you’re composting with worms, only use the wet and dry kitchen wastes. And finally, to avoid having a mess on your hands, let common sense rule when deciding which kitchen waste you use 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.

SERVICE

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

CONTRACTOR SERVICE

NOTICETO READERS

California law requires that contractors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. State Law also requires that contractors include their license number on all advertising. Advertisers appearing on this page without a license number indicate that the contractor is not licensed. You can check the status of your licensed contractor at www.cslb.ca.gov or (800) 321-2752. Unlicensed contractors taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board.

FENCES/DECKS

*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

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

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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

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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: Library Assistant$4,878 - $5,929 monthly

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

HELP WANTED

Senior Data Engineer – Pleasanton, CA. Seeking MS in Comp. Sci., Info. Sys. Mgmt. or closely rel. field. 2 yrs data engineer or related exp. req’d. Position reports to HQ in Pleasanton, CA; may telecommute. $160K/yr.

Mail CV to Attn: HR/Job #0228, Redica Systems, Inc., 6700 Koll Center Pwky #140, Pleasanton, CA94566.

Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (H.A.R.D.)

Now hiring! Apply Online: haywardrec.org/employment

Associate Attorney in Oakland, CA. Telework option available. Reference this ad & send resume to Haapala, Thompson & Abern LLP1939 Harrison Street #800, Oakland, CA94612 or ldobbins@htalaw.com.

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

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.

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. TREE

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

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

New Medi-Cal Rules Make It Easier To Qualify for Financial Assistance?

Q:My mother will need care in a Nursing Home, but the cost is beyond our reach. I understand that Medi-Cal can help subsidize that cost if she were eligible for that financial assistance. I also heard that there are new rules now in place that may make it easier for her to qualify. Can you shed any light on this, and is there still a role for advance planning?

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

A:Yes, and you heard correctly! Because of legislation (AB 133) signed by Governor Newsom, and fully effective this year, Medi-Cal has abandoned its long-standing asset test for all categories of Medi-Cal.

Until this year, there were, broadly speaking, two categories of Medi-Cal:

(1) Medi-Cal for those under age 65, who qualified under the Affordable Care Act by reason of having modest incomes (where assets did not count), and (2) Medi-Cal for those over age 65 and the disabled, who qualified by reason of having “countable resources” under certain limits (that is, where assets did count, although income only counted toward their “co-pay” or “Share of Cost”). Asset resources did not count for the younger group, but did count for the older group. Now, they no longer count for either group! With this transformative change in the law, eligibility for the older group is now in sync with the younger group. In short, the value of assets is no longer disqualifying for either group. This comes as very welcome news for many seniors.

That said, there is certainly a role for advance planning, especially for seniors, and I am glad you asked that question. Here are some bullet points:

1) Income still matters: For seniors, income is still considered for purposes of determining whether he or she will have

care received. While the rules regarding income are different for care received in a nursing home, as compared with care received at home, there are still lawful planning strategies available to shelter that income. These strategies can be helpful so as to either minimize the patient’s monthly Share of Cost or eliminate it entirely. For example, in appropriate cases, certain trusts may be used to shelter income generated by income-producing assets, in full compliance with the Medi-Cal rules. Furthermore, know that some Medi-Cal options are only available when the beneficiary’s Share of Cost has been reduced to zero. One such option is the Assisted Living Waiver Program, which provides a Medi-Cal subsidy for care in assisted living facilities for those who qualify. Other programs are only helpful where the Share of Cost is substantially below the actual cost of care, such as the In Home Supportive Services (“IHSS”) Program.

2) Estate Recovery: When the Medi-Cal beneficiary dies, Medi-Cal looks to his or her estate to determine if it may recover payments made on his or her behalf. In this regard, estate recovery is now limited to cases where the patient’s estate is administered in a formal probate proceeding.

include holding assets in certain trusts and/or by creating certain financial accounts with named death beneficiaries.

3) Good Planning Documents are still essential: It is still essential to have good planning documents in place, such as a Durable Power of Attorney containing the requisite Medi-Cal planning powers: should you become incapacitated, these powers may be necessary for your designated agent to use so as to enable him or her to help you take advantage of the new rules. And these powers should always be coordinated with your trust and meet your other estate planning objectives. So, advance planning is just as essential as before.

Medi-Cal has been issuing new rules and guidance to help Medi-Cal eligibility workers comply with the new law and to assist advocates, such as myself, help their clients. So, stay tuned as the new law moves forward and good wishes to you and your mother on securing a Medi-Cal subsidy to help with the cost of her care.

Gene L. Osofsky is an elder law and estate planning attorney who has been helping East Bay families for over 30 years with Trusts, Powers of Attorney, Probate, Medi-Cal Planning, and related matters. Visit: LawyerForSeniors.com

Spectrum, Meals On Wheels Push To #SaveLunch

Spectrum Community Services joins local Meals on Wheels programs from across the country in calling upon Congress to #SaveLunch for millions of American seniors at a time when key hunger relief and nutrition programs are being threatened. The organization is urging Senators Alex Padilla and Laphonza Butler to protect and increase funding for Senior Meals and Meals on Wheels services and is asking everyone to take action by visiting www.SaveLunch. org, where you can easily send Congress a direct message about this.

Federal funding accounts for 73% of Spectrum’s senior nutrition programs’ annual budget, but it has neither kept pace with inflation nor the rapid growth in America’s senior population. The increased living wage, along with rising food and transportation expenses, has placed strains on our services. Despite these challenges, we managed to deliver 156,200 meals to 2,392 seniors in 2023. Cuts of any kind will cause a waitlist for eligible seniors Spectrum Community Services is able to serve and those desperately in need of this lifeline.

see FOOD on page 11

LETTERS EDITOR TO THE

In Response to Ken Owen’s MAGA Letter

In response to Ken Owen’s MAGA “Letter To The Editor” dated March 13, 2024, I would like to add some of Biden’s incompetence leadership in three-plus years while in office. Our Nation is suffering like never before due to social and radical rulings by the Biden Administration. Below please find a list of his ruling or changes in our government during his presidency:

His restrictions on free speech/religious liberty, the government fully weaponized against its opponents, the deepening of recession, inflation and energy costs, social security and medicare on the verge of bankruptcy, the boarder’s growing invasion of illegal aliens, skyrocketing crime, child sex trafficking and fentanyl deaths, worldwide lack of respect for the American power and leadership, possible war with Russia, North Korea, Iran and China, underfunded the US military, war on parental rights, a country more divided than at any time since the Civil War, harassment of Trump supporters and the political prosecution and potential imprisonment of President Trump.

So I ask, what has Biden promised and done for the American people? When he took the oath on January 2021, he stated that he would unify this country. He has done nothing, but lie, cheat and steal for his family only. Do we want this person to represent us for another four years? Hell, no!! I want a president that when he promises something he delivers as did President Trump did in his four years of service.

Trump rebuilt the US military, made America energy independent, produced the Covid Vaccines through operation warp speed, produced record economic growth, low inflation and low interest rates, created jobs with tax cuts and deregulation, historic low unemployment, exposed the Obama/Clinton deep state, full support for funding the police, created the safest boarder in history, established great relationships with China, Russia and North Korea, he protected Israel, Taiwan, Ukraine and US allies, devastated ISIS, weakened Iran, created a historic Arab/ Israeli peace accords, he built a branch of the military called Space Force. And, above all, no wars during his presidency or no attacks launched against America.

Today, Biden and Trump are the candidates for the 2025 Presidency and Biden with its corrupt Washington Deep State and its radical allies in New York and Georgia want Trump jailed with false allegations. In the meantime, Biden looks like is headed for a possible impeachment due to his son’s business dealings and his involvement with Ekraine, China, Russia, etc. What a mess we’re in for selecting a President of the US? Myself, I support an individual that’s been there before, proven to be successful, promised to support and make America great and I believe he will Make America Great Again when reelected.

Don’t select an individual because of your political beliefs, but select the individual that will place America first and not last.

–Zack Papachristos, Castro Valley

In Response to Ms. Antonucci’s Letter

I am an independent voter, a mother and grandmother of three girls. I refused to vote for Trump in 2016 due to the “brag” about assaulting woman by grabbing them by the p... and more importantly his trip thru the dressing room of the Teenage Miss America pageant while the GIRLS were dressing. This message is in response to MS. Antonucci letter supporting DJT. She stated that while he was president that the country was at Peace. I believe that his International decisions resulted in instability that President Biden is now dealing with. Trump took us out of the Iran Nuclear agreement. Iran is feverishly working toward a nuclear weapon. What happens if Iran, and especially Hezbollah, Houthi or Hamas gets hold of one. Trump also withdrew from the TPP with our Pacific Allies thus embolden China to increase its Military presence. Then there is threats to NATO which fortunately caused our European allies to wake up. It also emboldened Putin to invade Ukraine. Trump also wanted to send out US Military out into the streets of the United States to suppress peaceful demonstrations

which is against the Constitution. Besides these decisions Trump had to be talked out of firing a nuclear weapon at a Hurricane, no understanding of the harm of fallout! He also wanted to fire weapons at the Mexico drug labs WITHOUT consulting the Mexican Govt. He thought they would not identify who fired the weapons, really? While who wouldn’t like to get rid of the Cartels, I am sure the innocent citizens of Mexico would not have taken kindly to the invasion.

Ms Antonucci also stated that is refreshing to hear his plans to put us on the right track. I do not hear anything good for our Country, only retribution for him and quite frankly I am terrified of his winning the Presidency. Believe him when he states he “will be dictator”, let Putin do “whatever the Hell he wants” and cut Medicare and Social Security just to name a few. As for Mr. Owen’s letter, he stated that Trump did a lot of “good things”. I would like to hear what they are. The few good things that happened during his administration are minuscule compared to the damage he did.

–Gail Lawton, Castro Valley

Sanitary District’s Proposed Rate Hikes

Dear Editor, Homeowners in the Oro Loma Sanitary District recently received a notice regarding proposed rate increases for the next five years. The District is planning on raising rates over 15% each year for the next five years. We were told we could attend a ‘public hearing’ on May 21, 2024 if we had any concerns.

However, instead of actually having a public hearing, the District wants to have a Zoom meeting. The District should meet with us IN PERSON, at a public location, for an actual public hearing. The District could state their case to us in person, and we could voice our concerns about this rate increase.

–Patrick Brown, Castro

Valley

MAC: CV is Among the Safest Places

continued from front page and stores in the Village are common theft targets overall.

“Society crimes” such as drug offenses and disorderly conduct are down 35 percent from 2022 figures.

Cox reported that there were no murders in Castro Valley in 2023 (one occurred in 2022), three forcible sex offenses, 11 reports of aggravated assault, and 16 reports of simple assault. Additionally, there were six robberies, 22 motor vehicle thefts, and 40 reported cases of theft or larceny.

As far as actual arrests in town, they were down in all three categories (person, property, and society) to 42 total from 59 in 2022.

Cox told the MAC that Castro Valley is among the safest places the sheriff’s office patrols outside the rural areas of Alameda County.

He added that some formerly common crimes, such as catalytic converter thefts, are way down because deputies

‘SOCIETY CRIMES’ DOWN 35% FROM 2022

are more involved and that the buyers of stolen goods have been identified and no longer practice.

Demographically, 17 of those arrested in Castro Valley in 2023 were black, 12 were white, and nine were Hispanic. Men accounted for 35 of the 42 arrested; 11 were aged 28-32, and ten were between 33 and 37. Castro Valley residents accounted for 14 arrestees: 14 from unknown towns, five from Hayward, and five from Oakland.

Cox said that, generally speaking, when deputies pursued a suspect, they would flee west, and many did appear to be headed to Oakland.

“I don’t know what significance that has, but that’s what happens,” said Cox.

MAC Vice Chair Chuck Moore asked if recidivism is an issue. Cox answered that the sheriff’s office knows most arrestees as reoffenders.

“I know the players,” said Cox. “It’s rare that we have contact with someone we haven’t seen before. It’s almost comical, but it’s not comical, how you see the same people all the time doing the same thing.”

Cox said that crime trending downwards is a positive development, but his advice remains to avoid becoming a victim by using common sense, such as not leaving valuables in your car and reporting suspicious behaviors.

“If you see something, say something,” said Cox. “Help us help you. Be your own advocate- lock your doors, know your neighbors, and be vigilant. We’re here, and we’re ready to work.”

Food: #SaveLunch Campaign Week

continued from previous page

“As seniors are the fastest growing age group in America and the pandemic funding is depleted, we see evidence around us of the devastating impacts lower support levels can have on the seniors in our community,” said Lara Calvert, Executive Director of Spectrum Community Services. “After more than three years of extra support for social isolation, and food, it is imperative that Congress acts now to preserve seniors’ lifelines and prevent taking vulnerable seniors off of services, by supporting Meals on Wheels funding.”

Underscoring the importance of federal funding for these programs, a newly released report, “The Case for Meals on Wheels: An Evidence-Based Solution to Senior Hunger and Isolation,” highlights a set of consistent findings that Meals on Wheels programs improve senior

health, safety, social connection and more while saving money. Meals on Wheels America – the leadership organization supporting the network of more than 5,000 community-based programs across the country that are dedicated to addressing senior hunger and isolation – analyzed 38 studies, spanning from 1996 to 2023. The studies consistently reported that Meals on Wheels programs reduce health care utilization and costs, falls, nursing home use, social isolation and loneliness and improve seniors’ ability to age in place, food security, diet quality and nutritional status.

During the week of March 18 through 22, Spectrum Community Services will participate in Community Champions Week as a part of the #SaveLunch campaign where local “champions” are invited to visit our senior meal sites or ride along on our Meals on Wheels delivery routes. These

“champions” include local city council, officials, civil servants, and other prominent community figures to help prepare and deliver meals, meet our clients and volunteers, and help raise awareness about the nutritional and social needs of seniors.

To learn more about these services, please visit www. MealsOnWheelsAmerica.org or www.SpectrumCS.org. To learn more about #SaveLunch and the ways you can take action, visit: SaveLunch.org.

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

Our Athletes of the Week are the Next Level Flag Football K-1

In the back row are: Coach John Flaaten, Coach Lukas Montero and Coach Kyle Bassman.

The Matt Wilhite Team is proud to sponsor Athletes of the Week K-1 Cal Bears

Congratulations to the Castro Valley High School Boys JV Volleyball Team for winning the Livermore HS JV Volleyball Tournament on March 9. In pool play the Trojans defeated Washington HS (2-0), lost to Monte Vista HS (1-2), and then defeated Granada HS (2-0). Their wins placed them as the 3rd seed in the bracket play. They went on to beat 2nd seed Dublin High School (2-1) and then defeated the 1st seed De La Salle High School (2-0) to win the Championship. The CVHS team is led by first year Head Coach Paolo Espirtu and Asst. Coach Makaela Yoshida. Pictured are: Top Row (L-R): Alex Winn, Laith Saleh, Ethan Koski, Ian Frost, Sambhav Karki, Marcus Antinero, Samuel Njoroge, Isaac Kan, Hudson Tien, Ethan Lunes, Asst. Coach Makaela Yoshida. Bottom Row (L-R): Head Coach Paolo Espirtu, Jacob Eickmann, Timothy Hui, Jayson Xu, Calvin Guiomar, Tai Nguyen, Kris Landsdowne.

Five Common Gym Cues

By Mitch Rothbardt SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

What the heck is he talking about? That’s what some of our new clients are probably thinking when they hear me talking to some of our veteran clients.

It’s not that I’m talking in some weird forbidden code, it’s that I’m coaching clients to perform their exercises more effectively and sometimes… well I have to admit, it sounds like a weird forbidden code.

In today’s article I’ll reveal… well…what the heck I’m talking about with five of my most common cues and why they’re important in making sure that people are getting the most out of their workouts.

Relax your shoulders. If I had a nickel every time I said this, I’d have a Brinks truck full of nickels. Tight necks and shoulders are the number one issue we see and that’s because everyone is so used to looking at phones and computers that shrugging has become a habit. Learning to correctly use your shoulder blades is the cure.

Get tall. Your body loves straight lines. Your body also loves strong positions. Getting tall keeps your back straight, your shoulders in a good position, and your core engaged. Those are all important if you want to feel good.

Set your core. You may have heard this one before, but so many people do it wrong

I think it’s important to bring up. You DO NOT set your core by sucking it in. Stand up and lightly push your fingers into the sides of your abs. Now, using your abs, push your fingers out. Notice how much more stable you feel in your midsection? That’s how you set your core.

Grab the floor with your feet. The foot has 29 muscles and over 200,000 nerve endings. Grabbing the floor with your feet (think heel, big toe, little toe) activates many of those and improves your entire body’s ability to balance and connect to the world around you.

Hold and exhale. Generally speaking, you want to do exercises with a quick pace as long as your form is under control. Core exercises are the opposite. You want to do those as slow as possible. This gives your core time to work and stabilize. With many of those exercises a good hold and strong exhale activates the core even more. Take your time!

I hope this helps understand some of my strange language, but understanding only goes so far. The application is what’s important. Let me know if I can help with that.

Mitch is the owner and head trainer at Castro Valley Fitness. He loves answering your fitness questions if you see him at the dog park with Penny, Max, and Tex or you can send him an email at: Mitch@ CastroValleyFitness.com.

Book: Past Presidents

continued from page 2 startle his students for over four decades,” Henig has received the Outstanding Professor Award and four Pi Kappa Delta Best Lecturer Awards.

Henig has lived in Castro Valley for over 40 years. He and his late wife, Lori, raised their children, Jennifer, Rebecca, and Adam, here. All three attended Independent Ele-

mentary, Canyon Middle, and Castro Valley High School.

These days, he’s an avid jogger, reader, traveler, and devoted grandfather.

“America’s Presidents: What Your History Teacher Never Told You” will be available through Amazon after April 2. For more information, visit itascabooks.com or call 1-800901-3480.

LaPonte: Still Kicking After Surgeries

continued from front page of her career, helped lead a strong team coached by Paul McCallion to annual league and section prominence.

For the next four years, playing for the legendary Jerry Smith, she helped the Santa Clara University Broncos secure a spot among the national elite. She even scored a goal in the 32nd minute of her first college game against San Jose State.

In the past 12 years, she has played for five NWSL teams and, most recently, transitioned as a 33-year-old Houston resident into the indoor game, where she represented the United States in Mexico last year.

But along the way, there were obstacles; “I don’t have an ACL or either meniscus in my right knee,” she notes without batting an eye.

That’s the product of 13—count ‘em, 13—different surgeries on that knee. Those came after hip surgery ended her running career as a teenager, a broken nose interrupted her freshman season at Santa Clara, and before the regular injections she now takes in her back.

But LaPonte is still kicking … if not with the flip-style front handspring that allowed her to inbound the ball halfway down the field in her prime.

“In my childhood, I relied on athleticism,” she says. “I’m still agile, but I need to show I am more of a tactical player. I have to show different facets in my game.”

Could she still possibly recommend soccer to kids? Absolutely.

“I completely encourage it,” she insists. “I coach now. I just make sure people are taught

to tackle properly, play the right way. Some of the things that happened to me – like getting tackled from behind – just make sure my players don’t play like that. Pass along everything I learned.

“When I was playing in Castro Valley, we had an abundance of parent coaches who were unlike any other area. The group of parents we had who taught us the game was vastly superior to other areas. My dad was my coach. To this day, he was one of the best coaches I ever had.”

This is the 15th 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 Sunday, April 21, at Redwood Canyon Golf Course. For tickets, go to castrovalleysportsfoundation. org and click on “Events.”

TROJANS SPIKE TOURNEY WIN

Cal Bears. The Sunday league, which plays at Castro Valley High School, went 7-1 for the season and won its Championship on March 3. The Kindergarteners and First Graders team is coached by CVHS junior and Trojan football player Lukas Montero, along with two

volunteer parent coaches. Pictured (front row from L-R) are: Barrett Bassman, Taj Frazier, Mason Wilhite, James Flaaten, Declan Soulard, Rajan Alejos, Olympia Arevalo, Dylan Molgaard and Brayden Mazza. Not pictured is Sam Madruga.