March 22, 2023

CASTRO VALLEY FORUM CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

MAC: Library, Billboards and More

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Closing Shop

After 20 Years in CV, Brother’s Furniture to close next month

Page 3

On Monday, the Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) heard progress updates from the county’s Public Works and Economic Development departments that address safety, traffic, and the look and feel of the town.

Pedestrian safety around schools has been heightened after a woman and her son got hit by a car on their way to Proctor Elementary on February 6.

Get Started

Six easy ways to start an exercise routine that you’ll stick with Page 10

Rosa Leither, who lives on Proctor Road and witnessed the injury, said it is a daily struggle for many neighborhoods that are frustrated that traffic and on-street parking priorities are coming into conflict with kids and parents on their way to school.

“We have been outraged for years, and our cries have been falling on deaf ears. These schools are not safe to walk to or ride to,” Leither told the MAC. She added that construction vehicles and work trucks block walking paths, forcing people to walk in the street.

Speech Contest

RCHS seniors take center stage at Rotary Club speech contest

Page 12

In his sidewalk update to the

MAC, Alameda County Public Works Agency (PWA) director Daniel Woldesenbet outlined the progress made near Castro Valley Schools, including the $3 million in sidewalks and crosswalks currently being added along Anita Avenue.

“We are working as fast as we can to add safety measures to these neighborhoods under

the Safe Routes to Schools program and Bicycle Pedestrian Master Plan,” Woldesenbet said. “We continuously take a look at what we can do to change the signs and the lanes, but it is also important to educate the students and parents and help them be aware.”

Woldesenbet cited cost constraints and low staffing

Quarry Project Delayed

By Mike McGuire CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Castro Valley and San Leandro residents won’t see many dump trucks headed to the old quarry site on Lake Chabot Road anytime soon, following a March 14 meeting of the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) board of directors.

service center.

issues in getting the work done faster. He said PWA’s to-do list included all the unincorporated areas and that priorities depend on a project’s alignment with One Bay Area Grant funds, Measure BB Sales Tax, and others. Adding sidewalks and other safety features near Castro Valley Elementary has the see MAC on page 2

EBMUD is abandoning, at least for the near future, its proposal to move and store trench soil there from pipe replacement projects throughout its two-county service area. The agency had promised a new park and hiking trails to be built there once the project is completed, but that completion would take 40 years or more.

Trench soil is removed along with old pipes and not reused. EBMUD engineers say fresh soil is better for the stability and longevity of the new pipes. see QUARRY on page 5

Local Baker’s Spin on Portuguese Malasadas

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

What do you call a misshapen doughnut that is lightly covered with sugar? If you are of Portuguese or Hawaiian heritage, you might call them malasadas. And now, one local baker is pouring her worldly experience into making these delicious treats.

Isabella Garcia is a Castro Valley native and an Our Lady of Grace and Castro Valley High School graduate. She says she has always had a passion for baking, including cakes,

tarts, pies, and other original pastries. Her mother is Denica Freitas of Denica’s Real Food Kitchen, where she does her baking and where customers pick up their online orders.

“I’m just trying to make everyone happy by feeding them with what I like and by what I am inspired by,” Garcia told the Forum.

While she is not Portuguese, she has family members who are. The family also spends vacations in Maui, where family gatherings and feasts with lots of treats like malasadas are common. It’s also

where Garcia says she learned to apply the Hawaiian spirit and vibe to her life. After high school, Garcia traveled and worked, including a pre-COVID trip to New Zealand with her boyfriend because it was one of the few countries where Americans could get a work visa.

“I got a job at the Double Black Café, and it was fun because the entire kitchen and café staff were women,” Garcia said. “New Zealanders are super big on their cafes where each has specialty dishes. We see BAKER on page 5

The Alameda County Board of Supervisors voted this month to keep the old Castro Valley Library building intact and renovate it as a

PHOTO BY MIKE MCGUIRE

Bay House Cakery makes a wide selection of malasada pastries filled with various flavors, including Lilikoi, Cookies n Cream, Nutella, and Raspberry.

Castro Valley Weather March 22 - March 26, 2023

MAC: Old Library for Vets, Billboards

continued from front page highest priority in town, followed by Stanton Elementary and Castro Valley High School. Sidewalk improvements slated for Proctor Avenue could come as early as 2025 at an estimated cost of $8.5 million, Woldesenbet said.

OLD LIBRARY FOR VETS

For veterans, the good news is that the Alameda County Board of Supervisors voted this month to keep the old Castro Valley Library building intact and renovate it as a service center. A previous proposal suggested tearing down the 60-year-old building in favor of a 4-story, 7,470 mixed-use space that would accommodate about 36 apartments. County staff reported to the MAC that the plan has now been scrapped. The county is now looking at what it would take to spruce up the facilities. In 2020, renovation and improvement costs were estimated between $1.5 and $9 million. According to County Economic and Civic Development Department director Eileen Dalton, that number has not been adjusted for current inflation and is likely to increase.

BYE-BYE BILLBOARDS?

Billboards along Castro Valley Boulevard may disappear entirely if the CV MAC has its say. The Council heard an update about the county’s plan to erect a digital billboard in Cherryland on Langton Way near Interstate 238 and how it might tie into funding for adding community-specific signage, murals, and other seasonal banners that welcome visitors to the town.

The unincorporated towns have 47 billboard spaces (about 24 structures) left. Castro Valley has about three clustered around the Boulevard between Park Way and Anita Avenue. The county has negotiated with the two main billboard companies (Clear Channel and Outfront Media) to remove old billboards in favor of digital ones. Three digital billboards have been erected—two along Interstate 880 and one at 580 Market Place in Castro Valley. The signs can show as many as seven ads in 8-second increments.

The process has been a moneymaker for the unincorporated area, netting $340,8873. If the Langton billboard is approved,

it could add an additional $40,000 annually and help the removal of the few remaining billboards on the Boulevard and allow Castro Valley and surrounding areas to invest in community signage.

Councilman Ken Carbone suggested the county help remove all non-digital billboards before spending on community funding. Councilman Chuck Moore floated the idea of spending billboard money to add welcoming signs for drivers coming into town along Crow Canyon Road.

BURGER ISLAND TRAFFIC

The Council got its update on plans for the infamous “Burger Island”- the patch of land on the west end of Castro Valley Boulevard, home to McDonald’s and Wendy’s. The county is reconfiguring the island with improvements to the intersection and a new sidewalk. The median will be reconstructed at Castro Valley Boulevard and Stanton Avenue, and a traffic signal with a left turn and southbound through movements will be added. A traffic signal will also be added at John Drive for northbound Strobridge Avenue traffic. Two crosswalks are being added to allow for safe pedestrian and bike traffic. Construction was expected to begin in September 2022, but rains and other factors have delayed reconfiguring and construction until Fall 2023. The environmental clearance was completed this past January. Public Works will finalize its designs and work with Caltrans on property permits in July 2023.

Proceeds help Hope Hospice care for more than 2,000 East Bay neighbors each year. Funds raised benefit patient care and help keep grief support, dementia education, and caregiver resources available to the public at no charge.

Sheriff’s Reports

COMPILED BY MICHAEL SINGER • CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Caught with Fentanyl

Sunday, March 19: at 11:32 p.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested a 53-year-old woman from Castro Valley suspected of possessing fentanyl drugs. The woman was traveling on Shadow Ridge Drive near Cold Water Drive when deputies stopped her for questioning and discovered her stash. Deputies took the woman into custody.

Warrant Served

Brother’s Furniture to Close

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Despite having weathered the housing crisis and other changes to people’s buying habits, Bay Area-based Brothers’ Furniture is shuttering its doors next month after 20 years at its Castro Valley Boulevard location.

Bold red and yellow banners and signs announce the pending closure. Store owner Dihn Nguyen said the family sold the property last year and is now making plans to clean out the store’s inventory. Prices inside the store have been slashed in half in most cases.

“It’s a combination of the impact of COVID along with much higher prices for freight,” Nguyen told the Forum. “We

used to have five stores in the Bay Area, and now we’ll only have one in South San Francisco.”

Brothers’ was started by three brothers back in 1999 when the cost of a 5-piece dining set averaged $300. The various furniture stores specialized in good quality pieces for any room in the house.

Unfortunately, the COVID pandemic forced the temporary closure of stores followed by the exponential rise in prices to make and ship furniture to stores.

“Before COVID, it would cost us about 8 percent of the price to ship furniture from Los Angeles to San Francisco. That has risen to as much as 14 percent in the last two years,” Nguyen said. “A shipping con-

tainer of furniture from Asia now costs upwards of $18,000 whereas it used to cost shippers $2,000.

The so-called supply chain issues have left some customers waiting for as much as a year to get their deliveries. Along with inventory issues, Nguyen also says mass-produced furniture from retailers like IKEA and Wayfair changed people’s taste in furniture and buying habits.

“Many people didn’t even know who we were or that we sold furniture,” Nguyen said. Brothers’ closure is the second largest furniture store to close down in the last few years. Connolly’s Furniture & Mattress on Redwood Road liquidated its company after the pandemic.

Saturday, March 18: at 12:08 p.m., a 31-year-old CV man was arrested as part of a warrant issued for his capture. Deputies served the warrant outside a hotel on Castro Valley Boulevard near Strobridge Avenue. The man was previously charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. Deputies took him to Santa Rita Jail.

Making Death Threats

Saturday, March 18: at 12:13 p.m., deputies arrested a 58-year-old man with no permanent residence on suspicion of making death threats to another person. The man was spotted outside a grocery store on Redwood Road near Grove Way. Deputies handcuffed the man and took him into custody.

Drove Intoxicated

Saturday, March 18: at 2:50 a.m., a 22-year-old CV was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. Deputies stopped his vehicle in front of a business on the Boulevard near Baker Road. The man failed his field sobriety test and was taken into custody.

CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Warrant Served to Man With a Knife

Thursday, March 16: at 1:23 a.m., a 41-year-old man from Castro Valley was arrested as part of a warrant issued for his capture. The man had been previously convicted of assault and battery, threatening with a deadly weapon, making death threats, and public intoxication. Deputies were called to a business on Redwood Road near Grove Way to investigate a suspicious person. The man was

found under the influence of alcohol, concealing an illegal knife, and providing a false ID. Deputies took the man to Santa Rita Jail.

Stolen Vehicle, Concealed Weapon

Thursday, March 16: at 11:14 a.m., deputies pulled over and arrested a 19-year-old man on suspicion of driving and possessing a stolen vehicle, driving with an expired license, driving see REPORTS on back page

Nordell Avenue Robbery

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

A 65-year-old man was robbed outside his home on Nordell Avenue last week, and Sheriff’s deputies are asking for the public’s help in capturing the suspects.

The robbery took place around 11:25 p.m. on March 13, according to Alameda County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant Tya Modeste as the man was approaching the front door

of his home near the intersection with Stanton Avenue. The man’s daughter told the Forum that two people rushed up from behind, pushed the man to the ground, put him in a chokehold, patted him down, searched his pockets, and stole his wristwatch. No other valuables were reported stolen. Emergency responders treated the man at the scene. The man’s daughter said he is still in shock.

see ROBBERY on page 10

Howard Morrison, Editor & Publisher howardm@ebpublishing.com

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Contributors:

Olivia Hsu, violin

Lalo Cello Concerto, First Movement Cara Wang, cello

The soloists are students in the Holy Names College Preparatory Music Program

Bruce Roberts

You only have until the end of April to shop for furniture at this store.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL SINGER

Free Castro Valley Orchestra Concert

Castro Valley Orchestra will present a concert at Redwood Chapel Community Church, 19300 Redwood Rd, Castro Valley, on Sunday, March 26th, at 3:30 PM. The orchestra will perform compositions by Mozart, Borodin, Lalo and Saint-Saens. Students from the performing arts program at Holy Names College will appear with the orchestra. Admission is free and a reception will be held immediately after the concert.

HOROSCOPE by Salomé © 2019 King Features Synd., Inc.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19): The adventurous Aries won’t be disappointed with taking on a new challenge, despite some initial misgivings. Look for this move to open other opportunities down the line

TAURUS (April 20 - May 20): Be careful how you handle a relationship that you’re hoping to save. You already have the facts on your side. Avoid weakening your position by embellishing it with unnecessary dramatics.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20): Don’t be discouraged or deterred by a colleague’s negative opinion about your ideas. It could actually prove to be helpful when you finally get around to finalizing your plan.

CANCER (June 21 - July 22): Taking definitive stands isn’t easy for the often-wavering Moon Child. But you not only need to stay with your decision, but also reassure others that it was the right thing to do.

LEO (July 23 - August 22): As a proud Lion, you’re right to be upset about those who might be lying about you to others. But the best revenge is proving them wrong by succeeding at what you set out to do.

VIRGO (August 23 - Sept. 22): Caution is still advised before making a financial commitment to a “promising” project. Look for the facts behind the fluff. Meanwhile, devote the weekend to loved ones.

LIBRA (Sept. 23 - October 22): A Taurus offers comfort and advice as you deal with an upsetting event. Use this as a learning experience that will help you avoid similar problems in the future.

SCORPIO (October 23 - November 21): A romantic situation creates some chaos for single Scorpions. But it’s well worth the effort to work things out. A trusted friend can offer some helpful advice.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21): Expect to make new friends as your social circle expands. Also, remember to tell that family member how proud you are of their achievements.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19): New ventures continue to be favored. With your self-confidence rising all the time, you’ll want to see how well you can do with a new challenge. So, go to it.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18): This is a good time for the usually serious-minded Aquarian to let loose and enjoy some fun times. Expect to get good news about a workplace issue.

PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20): Changed plans might upset some people, but your needs should be respected. Offer explanations when necessary. Don’t let yourself get talked into changing your decisions.

Wildflower Season at EB Parks

By Ned MacKay SPECIAL

The wildflower season is starting, and one of the best places for viewing the blooms is Sunol Wilderness Regional Preserve in southern Alameda County.

With that in mind, Sunol’s naturalist staff has scheduled a series of wildflower walks. The first one is from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 25. The next is at the same time on Sunday, March 26.

The hikes are free of charge, intended for ages four and older, with adult participation required. To join in, sign up at the Sunol Visitor Center the morning of the hike. Attendance is on a firstcome, first-served basis. Trails and hike capacity will vary each day. Wear weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and closed-toe shoes. Bring drinking water.

Sunol Wilderness is at the end of Geary Road off Calaveras Road, about five miles south of I-680 and the town of Sunol. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. For information, call 510-544-3245.

Note that Geary Road has been closed periodically due to landslides. So before you go, check this website: ebparks. org/alerts-closures to be sure the park is open and the program is on.

It’s a good idea to do this for every Regional Park you wish to visit or program you wish to join.

There will also be a naturalist-led wildflower walk from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 25 at Thurgood Marshall Regional Park in Concord. This program is free too, but requires advance registration. For registration and information, call 888-327-2757 and select option 2.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Tomorrow: Thursday, March 23

CVEA Chamber of Commerce Mixer

Please join us for a Mixer at the Woodroe Woods School at 6 pm. The school is at 750 Fargo Ave., San Leandro. Networking Mixers are a benefit of being a Chamber member. These events allow you to network and grow your business and are FREE for members to attend. Pre-register for this event to be entered into a special drawing the night of this event. Pre-register in advance to enter a special drawing this night. If you would like to join the Chamber, contact us in advance at info@castrovalleychamber.com. We want to make a special announcement and introduce you to our Board.

Friday, March 24

Coffee with a Cop Event

The CHP Hayward Area invites you to participate in a Coffee with a Cop event this Friday, March 24 at 9 am to noon at Vivoz Coffee of Hayward (926 B St., Hayward). This event is open to the public and we are encouraging everyone to attend and engage in meaningful conversation with CHP Officers and personnel.

Friday, March 24

Eden Night Live Returns!

Eden Night Live is back! The pop-up festival and marketplace, which drew over 10,000 attendees in the past, is returning. A rotating list of nonprofits, entrepreneurs, entertainers, County agencies, and DSAL departments will host booths and share resources. Eden Night Live will take place this Friday, March 24 from 3 to 7 pm at the Sunset Futsal Courts at Hayward Adult School (300 Laurel Avenue, Hayward) and will feature: will feature: Futsal at Sunset Futsal Courts, music and dancing, food from local businesses, games for all ages, group art projects and more!

Friday, March 24

Celebrating Art is Education Month

The Hayward Unified School District’s annual Art is Education exhibition showcases work of seventy-five art students. On Friday, March 24 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm, exhibiting artists will be honored with a program including certificate presentations and performances at Hayward City Hall Rotunda (777 B Street).

Saturday, March 25

Big Gardens in Small Spaces

Sunday, March 26

Free Concert: Castro Valley Orchestra

Castro Valley Orchestra will present a concert at Redwood Chapel Church, 19300 Redwood Rd, on Sunday, March 26, at 3:30 pm. The orchestra will perform compositions by Mozart, Borodin, Lalo and SaintSaens. Students from the performing arts program at Holy Names College will appear as well. Admission is free and a reception will be held immediately after the concert.

Monday, March 27

Eden Garden Club Meeting

Eden Garden Club meets on Monday, March 27, at 9:30 am. The meeting is held at the Castro Valley Methodist Church 19806 Wisteria Street in Castro Valley. The speaker will be Carol Dixon on Monarch Butterflies and their Milkweed host plants. Meetings are free and guests are always welcome. Call 510 397-1268 for further information.

Tuesday, March 28

CV Rotary Hosts Lorien Fono

Lorien Fono will explain what PFAS is and why you should care. A buffet lunch and the program take place at Redwood Canyon Golf Course (17007 Redwood Road, Castro Valley) at noon to 1:30 p.m. The cost of lunch is $20 and reservations must be made by 9 pm on Sunday, March 26, by emailing: cvrotary@iCloud.com or call 510-402-5123. More information at: castrovalleyrotary.org.

Wednesday, March 29

Free Concert: CV Community Band

Has the wet weather been getting you down? Mark your calendars and invite your friends for a free winter concert put on by Castro Valley Adult & Career Education. On March 29 at 7:30 pm, Kathy Maier will lead the Castro Valley Community Band in a concert called “Wet, Wild and Wonderful.” The concert is FREE and at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts.

Wednesday, March 29

Douglas Morrisson Theater Chorus Douglas Morrisson Theater Chorus presents Stage and Screen, with music from Broadway and the Movies on Friday March 31st, at 7 pm and April 2nd at 2 pm, at the Douglas Morrisson Theater (22311 Third St., Hayward). To purchase tickets, Visit https://rb.gy/zkyfic or visit the HARD District Office at 1099 E Street, Hayward. Call 510-881-6700 for assistance if needed. Tickets will not be available at the door.

Bringing

Mining Town Back to Life

There are few signs remaining that one of Contra Costa’s most populous mining communities once thrived in what is now Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch.

Through historic photos, maps and clues on the ground, naturalist Katie Garchar will bring the town of Somersville back to life during a program from 2 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 25 at Black Diamond Mines.

see PARKS on page 10

CompostGal Lori Caldwell is back to help us learn about gardening in small spaces. Growing in containers is a great way to start a garden or add on to maximize your already existing garden possibilities. Topics such as maintaining soil fertility, best plants for container gardens and crop rotation will be covered. Reservations are required for this FREE event. Register at aclibrary.org. The library is located at 3600 Norbridge Avenue. We will be maintaining social distancing practices and following all local health precautions and guidelines. For more info, call 510-667-7900, or see Events at https:// aclibrary.org/location/castro-valley-events/.

Saturday, April 8

Free Afternoon of Poetry & Jazz Celebrate National Poetry Month with a live and free event with Hayward poets and musicians! Featuring: Hayward Poet Laureate Bruce Roberts, Hayward Youth Poet Laureate Germani Latchison, Pat Doyne and Vecepia Robinson plus The Cal State East Bay Jazz Combo directed by James Happ. Saturday, April 8 at 3 pm at Hayward Public Library (Fremont Bank Foundation Room, 2nd Floor) 888 C Street, Hayward. For more information, please call (510) 293-7173.

Baker: Now Taking Orders Online

continued from front page had specific recipes, but I could be as creative as I wanted to. Since I started at 5:30 in the morning, I got off work around 2 p.m. and could explore the beautiful country.”

After the pandemic hit, Garcia came home and decided to try making malasadas with a twist: custard or jam fillings.

“Traditional malasadas are just dough and sugar. I tried to make mine a bit more pretty because people like taking pictures of their food and posting them on social media. Americans also like their fillings, and that inspired me to try different things,” Garcia said.

She started with Hawaiian-style filings like coconut cream, pineapple jam, and passion fruit. During the holidays, she tried different flavors like pumpkin spice, coffee, and apple pie. She says her most

popular malasada flavor is guava crème.

“I also have a malasada with fresh whipped cream with vanilla bean. I haven’t seen any bakers around the Bay Area do a variation like that,” she said.

After a year and a half, Garcia has sold her pastries at pop-up stands in Livermore but does more business now taking orders online.

Her company—Bay House Cakery—is a two-person operation between Garcia and her cousin Miranda. During crunch time, Garcia says she gets help from other family members as well.

This past January, Garcia had a baby and has had to cut back on her hours. But she is preparing to take orders for Easter next month and working two out of four weeks going forward.

To see more of Bay House Cakery’s wares and order malasadas, visit their website (bayhousecakery.com) or Instagram page (@bayhousecakery).

Visit our website to read, like and share this story: www. mycvforum.com

Quarry: Chan Calls for Cancellation

continued from front page That leaves the problem of where to put the increasing amounts of trench soil as EBMUD gears up its replacement of old water pipes.

EBMUD sees an advantage in it taking that long for its ongoing supply of trench soil to fill up the old quarry, but at least some nearby residents strongly disagree. The old quarry site is on county land but is adjacent to Bay-O-Vista, which is within San Leandro city limits.

EBMUD had proposed sending 30 to 100 dump trucks a day heading northbound on Interstate 580 and exiting at Estudillo Avenue in San Leandro. They would then have headed up narrow, twisting Lake Chabot Road to the old quarry site on county land, just over the city line. The empty trucks were to return on the county portion of the road to Fairmont Drive in Castro Valley and then onto freeways.

EBMUD announced on Tuesday that it was letting a purchase option on the land lapse, would not pursue a required environmental impact report, and was dropping its request for a conditional use permit for the project from the county.

But its board failed, on a pair of 3-3 tie votes with one member absent, to either cancel the project permanently or to leave the door open to it in the future. Its staff was instructed to keep looking into alternative ways to dispose of trench soil.

Members of the public commenting at the meeting

expressed opposition to the quarry proposal.

“We’re very pleased that three members of the East Bay MUD board of directors voted to terminate the project immediately,” said Kat Wellman of the Save Lake Chabot Road group. “We’re also pleased that (San Leandro) Mayor Gonzalez and Councilmember Reynes spoke so strongly against it.”

The Save Lake Chabot Road group had led opposition to the project and gathered 1,500 names on a petition against it. Their members are mostly Bay-O-Vista residents but also include residents from Oakland’s nearby Sheffield Village neighborhood, Castro Valley, and elsewhere. The San Leandro City Council voted unanimously on March 6 to oppose the project.

Before the meeting, EBMUD had announced a “pause” to the project while looking at alternatives and

also while the road is closed for repairs from recent storm damage. But newly elected EBMUD board member April Chan, whose district includes Bay-O-Vista, called forcefully at the meeting for an outright cancellation.

“As a director, I feel this is really the wrong direction for us to go,” she said. Chan saw lawsuits and a citizen rebellion brewing if the project proceeded.

“People are uncomfortable with the idea of a pause,” she continued. “The 1,500 names on a petition are just the beginning.” She sponsored the motion to cancel the project.

EBMUD insists the road could be used safely and with minimal inconvenience to BayO-Vista residents.

Lake Chabot Road between Fairmont Drive and Benedict Drive is closed indefinitely while storm damage is repaired, which had already forced EBMUD to delay their

AND THE BEAT GOES ON

Students at Palomares Elemetary discovered the joy of rhythm and music-and were reminded of the importance of teamwork through drumming–during a group activity last week. Members of the Drum & Perk (drumandperk.com) engaged students in rhythmic activities that focused on three important components of teamwork: effort, respect, and focus.

Isabella Garcia (with her new baby) owner of Bay House Cakery

PHOTO COURTESY OF PALOMARES ELEMENTARY

REAL ESTATE REALITY

By Carl Medford, CRS Special to the Times

Local Banking Collapse Fuels Real Estate Market Uncertainty

As if things have not been crazy enough this year, last week’s collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) coupled with the woes faced by First Republic Bank have fired a shot across the bow of the Bay Area’s economy. How this will eventually shake out is anyone’s guess. One thing for sure: it has introduced a substantial amount of uncertainty and even fear into the local housing market.

Although only 15% of SVB’s loan portfolio was residential and commercial real estate mortgages, the bank’s collapse will likely have a short-term effect on mortgage rates. Lawrence Yun, chief economist of the National Association of REALTORS® commented, “The Silicon Valley Bank failure, along with a few other banks, means that the Federal Reserve cannot be so aggressive in raising its short-term interest rates,” adding, “therefore, mortgage rates will decline.”

Melissa Dittmann Tracey, in REALTOR Magazine, clarifies by stating, “As of Monday, mortgage rates had fallen about 50 basis points lower than last

CROSSWORD PUZZLE ANSWERS

week. Yun says that when there is a panic in the financial market, investors often shift money toward safer assets, which tends to be U.S. Treasury notes and bonds. Mortgage rates lately have tended to follow the movement of Treasury yields, which are falling.”

While this may be good news for prospective homebuyers in the immediate future, the demise of SVB along with other lenders that focused on tech startups has raised concerns about the overall health of the tech sector. Since tech is such a significant part of our regional economy, any weakening could mean more layoffs which, combined with negative tech-related stock market activity, would most likely pull the bay area into a recession. This could in turn result in a lowering of local housing prices. The recent announcement of Meta (Facebook’s parent company)

to lay off 10,000 employees seems to add fuel to this fire.

In contrast, we have seen a recent rally in local real estate sales with the return of multiple offers and resultant price increases. Fueled by a historic shortage of inventory and buyer awareness that higher mortgage rates are here to stay, homeowner wannabes have been out in hordes snapping up elusive properties as quickly as they hit the market. While this is good for sellers, it is further deepening the local affordability crisis.

Bottom line, we are in confusing times and it is becoming increasingly difficult to predict the market’s future outcomes.

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.

WEEKEND GARDENER

Weeding

best, but use gardening gloves if your working around roses, briars or plants with sharp leaves. Grab a handful of weedy growth close to the ground and pull up with the roots. If the roots don’t give, use a narrow trowel to loosen the soil a little more. Shake dirt off the roots and put the weeds in the compost bin

Best Buys

With fresh stock arriving for spring planting, everything in the nursery or garden center is a good buy. Look for vegetables and flowering annuals in six-packs and 4-inch pots.

Roses

Feed roses heavily to ready them for their long blooming season. Water first, then apply the fertilizer, then water again. As soon as they begin blooming, prune spent blossoms down to the first five-part leaf to gently shape the plant. Continue to feed lightly and water through through the summer. Apply a thick mulch to conserve water and to keep the plant healthy.

There are No Open Homes this Week

By Silverije - Own

Ants Won’t Harm Fruit Trees

By Buzz Bertolero THE DIRT GARDENER

QWhen is the right time to start feeding my fruit trees? I have a cherry, apricot, and persimmon. Also, how can I prevent the ants from running up and down the trunks?

AEstablished or mature Cherries, Apricots, and other fruit trees except Persimmons are fertilized annually in the late winter or early spring, February through April. Persimmons are fed in the fall, as fertilizing in the spring can cause fruit to drop from the nitrogen. New and maturing fruit trees are fed a second time from May through July. Peaches and Nectarines benefit from a second feeding as next year’s fruit is produced on this year’s growth. Many fruit tree-specific fertilizers are available today, so you can’t go wrong with any of them. I’d apply half a pound of fertilizer per inch of trunk diameter, measured two feet off the ground is recommended for each tree. The fertilizer is evenly distributed around the drip line, not piled at the base of the tree(s), and then watered in. Before making a second application, water the tree(s) the day before or at least four hours beforehand to prevent

fertilizer burn. It’s not necessary now as there is plenty of moisture in the ground from the winter rains. Ants cause little to no damage to fruit trees. They are more of a nuisance than anything else. What they are looking for is food. Ants will ferry Aphids around to feed off the clear, sticky secretions called ‘Honey Dew.’This occurs during the spring and early summer months. If ants are a problem year-round, I will suspect another insect called Scale. Scale is located on the stems and branches of the trees. They are raised, bumpy areas that could be mahogany, brown, or black in color. You can control the ants from two approaches. One would have you apply a sticky resin called Pest Barrier or Tanglefoot to the tree(s) trunk. Tanglefoot/Pest Barrier is placed about two feet off the ground in a two-inch wide band. The Tanglefoot /Pest Barrier traps the ants as they march upward. Controlling the insects and eliminating the food source is the second option. This eliminates the ants incentive to be in the trees in the first place. Depending on the problem, Insecticidal soap or Horticultural Oil can be used. Both of these products are safe to use on trees with mature fruits.

QThe Daffodils we planted several years are now about two feet in circumference. They come up abundantly but give maybe two blooms. We always let the leaves die and turn yellow before removing them. What have I done wrong?

ADaffodils will stop blooming when the clumps become crowded. It’s too late for this year. After the foliage turns yellow and easily separates from the ground, I would dig up the clump(s). You could divide the clump(s) into smaller segments then or wait until next fall when you replant. The bulbs should be stored in a cool location. Daffodil clumps are divided every three to four years.

work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=119402831

CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons. wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=680205

Homes

Mortgage Rates Pull Back

Mortgage rates are down following an increase of more than half a percent over five consecutive weeks. Turbulence in the financial markets is putting significant downward pressure on rates, which should benefit borrowers in the short-term. During times of high mortgage rate volatility, homebuyers would greatly benefit from shopping for additional rate quotes. Our research concludes that homebuyers can potentially save $600 to $1,200 annually by taking the time to shop among multiple lenders.

Some Old Basements Teem with Creepy-Crawlies

By Samantha Mazzotta Special to the Times

If you have an older basement, you may have seen some creepy-crawlies – spiders, beetles, ants and centipedes lurking around.

You don’t want to find any of those pests lurking under a pile of laundry.

The first thing you’ll want to do is find where many of these pests are entering the basement. Even if the walls and floor are structurally sound and appear dry, very small cracks or holes may have developed over the years.

Ants are the easiest to track: Find one of their trails, or create a trail by placing a small amount of crumbs in a pile on an otherwise clean floor. The trail will typically lead back to the perimeter of the basement where the floor and wall meet. Mark each entry spot with tape or chalk.

Next, test how bad the house centipede or beetle population may be, by setting down sticky traps in the areas you saw these pests. Even if you just catch one, it will confirm their presence.

A pest-control professional can do the most thorough job of eliminating these creatures, or you can find bug sprays specific to these pests at home-improvement stores. But if you don’t want them coming back, you’ll need to close up entry points and re-

duce the amount of moisture.

While your basement may seem dry, the appearance of house centipedes often signals a moisture problem. Have a contractor specializing in basements evaluate the floor and walls to find out if water is seeping in. Small cracks and gaps need to be sealed using correct mortar or cement patching material to allow for expansion and contraction.

Meantime, look around the outside foundation of the house

for potential water and bug magnets, like piles of leaves or old mulch, drain spouts that are pouring water directly down into the foundation rather than being extended out several feet away, or firewood stacked against the wall. These issues can be dealt with quickly and easily and can reduce both bug and water issues.

Home Tip: Store boxes and place dirty laundry containers on platforms or shelves that keep them off the ground in areas that centipedes and spiders frequent.

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.

CONCRETE SERVICE

*MPCONCRETE. Driveways, Patio, Retaining Walls, Stamped Concrete, Asphalt, Hauling. Lic.#1054154. Milo 510-502-9336.

CONCRETE SERVICE

S.L.CONCRETE SERVICE Driveways, Sidewalks, Stamped Concrete, Retaining Walls, Asphalt, Paving Stones. Lic.#982202. 510856-8937.

Help

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.

San Leandro Times HOME SERVICES GUIDE Call 614-1558

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EMPLOYMENT WANTED

22 year old with EMT, CPR & Security Guard Card certifications seeks full time employment. I have excellent references. Please email me at: rogerdouglasvadnais@gmail.com

FENCES/DECKS

Fence wobbly? Call Randy's Fence Reinforcement and save thousands! 510-706-6189.

GARAGE SALES

Yard Sale Saturday Mar 25, 9-3, rain date: Sunday, Mar 26. Couch, love seat, dinette, bed, small kitchen appliances. 2209 Estabrook Circle, San Leandro.

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

GARDENING

*ANYYARD WORK. Cleanups and Maintenance. Free Estimates. Call 510-798-1833.

JAIME’S GARDENING

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

HAIR CUTTING

Free Haircut with hair donation for Wigs for Kids.Call Yumi for details!!! (510)407-0436.

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

HAULING SERVICE

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

ATTENTION LANDLORDS

You may rent your property with a sign in the window or with an ad on the internet… But why not also advertise your rental in both the San Leandro Times & Castro Valley Forum for as little as $25, and reach over 60,000 readers! TO PLACE AN AD, CALL 614-1558

HELP WANTED

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

The City of San Leandro is now accepting online applications for: Plant Operator (Operator-inTraining/Operator I) -$6,485.00 - $8,691.00/monthly

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

MISC. FOR SALE

Aggressor 2.0 trail bike with rock shocks, 24 speed, 25 inch height, in great condition. $200. For more information call 423-504-4642.

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)

1973 Gibson Les Paul Deluxe Cherry Sunburst guitar in good condition with case. $3,200. Patrick 510-517-3351.

MISC. WANTED

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

Need Remodeling?

How about a new kitchen or bath?

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

RENTALS

LANDLORDS – Advertise your units! Avacancy day is money lost forever ... R. Bowman San Leandro 62+ community (NO ONE UNDER 62), Floresta Gardens area, $2,075; duplex, quiet, private court,2-Bdrm, single-story, walk-in shower, central heat, air conditioning, microwave, dishwasher, washer and dryer inunit, patio, carport. NO pets/smoking.510-352-7023 for requirements.

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.

TREE SERVICE

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

CHECK OUT OUR CLASSIFIED ADS & HOME SERVICES FOR HELP!

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Wegreatly appreciate our many advertisers who make it possible for us to publish these newspapers.

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Classified & Home Service ads run in both the Castro Valley Forum and San Leandro Times.

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ATTENTION LANDLORDS

THANK-YOU for supporting the Castro Valley Forum and San Leandro Times!

You may rent your property with a sign in the window or with an ad on the internet… But why not also advertise your rental in both the San Leandro Times & Castro Valley Forum for as little as $25, and reach over 60,000 readers! TO PLACE AN AD, CALL 614-1558

Wegreatly appreciate our many advertisers who make it possible for us to publish these newspapers.

BUY, SELL & SAVE HERE IN YOUR LOCAL MARKETPLACE

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• SPECIAL OFFER •

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Attention Classified & Home Services Directory Advertisers

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ONLY 10-WORD AUTOMOBILE OR TRUCK ADS PLACED ONLINE ARE FREE.

Classified & Home Service ads run in both the Castro Valley Forum and San Leandro Times.

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Your ad will run in the San Leandro Times and Castro Valley Forum, as well as online on our website, for 12 weeks. Private party ads only (no dealers). Some restrictions may apply. For more information, call Patrick at 614-1558.

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GARAGE SALE

Complete Garage Sale Kit Included Call 614-1558 or place your ad online at www.sanleandrotimes.com or www.castrovalleyforum.com

Only $20 (10 words or less — $1.00 for each additional word). For more information, call Patrick at 614-1558.

All real estate advertised in the CASTRO VALLEY FORUM and SAN LEANDRO TIMES is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes itillegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, marital status, national origin or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.

$25 Runs for 3 weeks in both the San Leandro Times & Castro Valley Forum for only…

10 word maximum ($1.00 for each additional word). Private party ads only (no dealers). Some restrictions may apply. For more information, call Patrick at 614-1558.

EASTBAY PUBLISHING, INC. will not knowingly accept any advertisements for real estate that is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Six Ways to Start Exercising

By Mitch Rothbardt SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Irecently heard someone say that personal trainers always preach to the converted. In other words, everything we talk about tends to focus on people already knowing about exercise and nutrition. In light of that, I want to talk to people who want to start exercising but don’t know how. Here are six easy ways to start exercising.

Celebrating Art is Education

By Winda I. Shimizu SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

The Hayward Unified School District’s annual Art is Education exhibition showcases work of seventy-five art students. For the last thirteen years during March, which is Arts Education Month, Hayward Arts Council has sponsored monthlong exhibitions showcasing outstanding student work in the John O’Lague Galleria in Hayward City Hall.

Students have been selected for their exceptional achievement in the arts and their potential to continue in the arts

in the future. “Art Is Education” Exhibition is a highly selective show and you will truly get to see the best that Hayward Schools have to offer in a variety of media including 3D and 2D works.

On Friday, March 24 from 5:30 to 7:30 pm exhibiting artists will be honored with a program including certificate presentations and performances at Hayward City Hall Rotunda.

The exhibition sponsored by Hayward Arts Council will run from March 20th through April 24th at the John O’Lague Galleria at Hayward City Hall, 777 B Street.

The Hayward Arts Council believes that all students deserve access to a quality arts education. Providing skills and various forms of art education gives students a voice and improves critical thinking skills. March is Arts Education Month and thus the perfect time to reflect on the myriad of benefits that arts education can provide.

Visit haywardartscouncil.org to learn more about exhibitions and programs. John O’Lague Galleria is open to the public Monday-Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.

Winda I. Shimizu is Hayward Arts Council Executive Director.

IWUSA SPRING NATIONAL MEETING

1. Walk. If you’re starting from ground zero, the first step is simply to get up and go for a walk. If you never walk, start with an easy 10-15 minutes once a week. It’s that simple. The key is picking something you know you can do and building on it.

2. Be honest and realistic about your goals. So many people think they should “lose weight” or “get in shape” just

because they think that’s what they’re supposed to do. Take the time to figure out what you really want and why, and you’ll have a much better chance of achieving it.

3. Have fun. Figure out something you like doing and do it. If you hate walking? Maybe that’s not for you. Don’t like lifting weights? Maybe that’s not for you. Remember, we’re just talking about getting started therefore make it something you enjoy so you’ll stick with it.

4. Keep it simple. I know this can be overwhelming but don’t let that get to you. It’s not as hard as some make it out to be. As a matter of fact, the simpler you make it, the better your chance of success.

5. Talk to someone. You know there are people who

specialize in helping people who have never exercised and getting them started in a safe, fun, and effective way? Find someone you’re comfortable with, and that’s worked with others like you.

6. It’s about progress, not perfection. Everyone wants results, but feeling as if you’re far away from your ultimate goal makes it harder to get started. Just think about getting a little better on a consistent basis. It’s more realistic, and *BONUS* it’s actually better for you in the long run!

My motto is “The best thing you can get from a workout is the desire for another one.” If you start exercising with that in mind, you’re more likely to stick to it, and if you stick to it? Well, that’s when the results start happening.

Mitch Rothbardt is the owner and head trainer at Castro Valley Fitness. Email him at: Mitch@castrovalleyfitness.com

Parks: History of Land Preservation

continued from page 4

The program is drop-in and free of charge. Heavy rain may cancel the program. Meet Katie in the park’s uppermost parking lot at the end of Somersville Road, 3.5 miles south of Highway 4. For information, call 510-544-2750.

Duck, Duck, Goose!

“Duck, Duck, Goose!” is the theme of Family Nature Fun Hour from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 25 at the Doug Siden Visitor Center at Crab Cove in Alameda. It’s all about fun with our feathered friends. The program repeats at the same time on Sunday, March 26.

And in celebration of Women’s History Month, naturalist Susan Ramos will host a program from 2 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 25 at the Elsie Roemer Bird Sanctuary at Crown Beach in Alameda.

During a short walk along the edge of the bay, learn how Sylvia McLaughlin, Kay Kerr and Esther Gulick formed Save the Bay. Also find out who

were Elsie Roemer and Junea Kelly. Bring your binoculars or borrow one from Susan.

Both programs are drop-in and free of charge. The visitor center is at 1252 McKay Ave. off Alameda’s Central Avenue. The marsh observation platform is at the intersection of Park Street and Shoreline Drive. For info on either program, call 510-544-3187.

EBRPD Presents Advocacy Award

The Park District and Regional Parks Foundation have presented State Assembly member Rebecca Bauer-Kahan with the District’s 2022 Radke Championing Advocacy Award, in recognition of her years of support for the Park District in Sacramento.

She was instrumental in securing $4 million in the 2019-20 state budget for restoration at McCosker Creek in Robert Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve in Orinda. She also secured $3.5 million in the 2021-22 state budget for wildfire protection equipment.

The award is named for late Park District Board member Ted Radke, the longest-serving board member in the District’s history.

How Robert Doyle Shaped the East Bay Learn more about the Park District’s history of land preservation at the premier of the film documentary, “The Long Game: How Robert Doyle Shaped the East Bay.”

The documentary will be premiered at a Save Mount Diablo program from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 23, at the Lafayette Veterans Memorial Center.

Doyle is a retired Park District general manager and a founding member of Save Mount Diablo.

The program also honors two recently retired, long-term Park District elected board members: Beverly Lane and Ayn Wieskamp. All three have been active for many years in preserving East Bay open space. To obtain tickets, visit bit.ly/ebrpd2.

Robbery: ACSO Asks Public for Help

continued from page 3

The man was able to tell deputies that at least two people were involved in the robbery. The first attacker was wearing black shoes and was the driver of the car. The second attacker was wearing white shoes, a faded black sweatshirt, and was wearing a

white undershirt that the victim said he saw during the robbery. The man told deputies the attackers were driving a newer model Mercedes-Benz, black in color with four doors and dark tinted windows.

The robbers did speed off toward the end of the street, but the family says the car

ended up turning around, they suspect, because there is a dead end at the top.

Lt. Ty says ACSO is asking the public for help. If someone has video footage or was an eyewitness to the attack to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 510-225-5918 and reference incident number 23-003657.

An art piece by a student at Cesar Chavez Middle School in Hayward.

Inner Wheel Club of San Leandro members Gloria Vasconcellos, Lynnette Flusche, and Jeanetta Arenott attended the IWUSA Spring National Meeting in Folsom, CA. They presented IW International President Zeny Farcon with the Club’s flag and a copy of Images of America-San Leandro. During the National Meeting Gloria was installed as IWUSA President 2023-24, Lynnette National Treasurer, and Jeanetta District Chair. Pictured (left to right): Gloria Vasoncellos, Zeny Farcon, Lynnette Flusche, Jeanetta Arenott.

RE: ‘CVSan Preps Site’ For Their New HQ’ Article

On the front page of the March 8th Forum was an article titled “CVSan Preps Site for Their New HQ.” The article noted that the Castro Valley Sanitary District (CVSan) acquired the Center Street property for $1.5 Million in 2013 and recently awarded the construction contract for $20.844 Million. Other costs not mentioned in the article are related costs to date of $1.3 Million and an estimated $2.5 Million for additional material costs. Thus, assuming no cost overruns, the cost to the CVSan ratepayers is going to be over $26 Million.

Most troubling is that CVSan plans to finance this project by selling 30-year bonds at a cost to the ratepayers of hundreds of thousands of dollars a year. In the past, CVSan would pride itself with the philosophy of “pay as you go.” The way that works is that CVSan would overinflate its yearly budget to justify rate increases and then at audit time they would always end up with a multi-million dollar surplus, which they would squirrel away for pet projects. Their new $26 Million headquarters started off as a $7 Million corporation yard that was going to be paid totally from the CVSan’s reserve fund.

Most of CVSan’s 100 year-old sewer mains are dilapidated and overburdens the Oro Loma Treatment plant, especially when it rains, which we have been getting a lot of lately. Instead of spending $26 million on a new Headquarter building, they should spend it on replacing their worn out sewer system. Moreover, CVSan’s current Headquarter building is only 20 years-old, which they plan to sell at a pittance from its original cost. Needless to say, their current Headquarters building could be donated or sold to a homeless organization to house many homeless people in our area. Their current Headquarters has restrooms with showers, a kitchen, and considerable space for sleeping quarters.

CVSan’s fiscal incompetence and reckless spending should be investigated.

–Ken Owen, Castro Valley

There is No Conspiracy by ‘Media’ to Influence Public

First of all Tosha, Supporting Ukraine has nothing to do with any administration support of a conspiratorial military industrial complex. It has to do with taking a stand against aggression by dictators. Being an isolationist in a global political world only invites chaos. What happens in other places effects us all. NATO countries are also helping in Ukraine. There is also no conspiracy by “the media” to influence the public. (Except for Fox, who we know has lied to everyone.) January 6 shows us what belief in conspiracies can do.

Mr. Scott, Kamala Harris has never called for defunding the police. This was a false statement (lie) by Mike Pence in one of his political ads. There is no truth to it what so ever, so stop spreading this misinformation. Yes Democrats do watch Fox, but for entirely different reasons than Republicans. They either want a touch of comedy, or they want to to hear the oppositions view, something many conservative viewers eschew. As for Fox doing something right based on ratings…well it turns out Fox News did something wrong to keep its ratings… it outright lied about the election being a fraud, despite their all knowing it was a lie. I don’t think you want to praise them for lying do you?

–Robert Thomas, Castro Valley

Letters must include writer’s name, address and phone number, and must be under 300 words. Letters can be edited for clarity or length. Letters are the views of the author and not necessarily that of the newspaper or its advertisers. E-mail letters to: filesforforum@gmail.com

FROM THE BOULEVARD

A Nevadan, but Heart Resides in CV

By Thomas Lorentzen SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Although my entire life has been centered in Castro Valley, there is another place that impacted me. That place is Nevada. It all started in 1968. I had recently graduated from Cal State, Hayward, and decided to seek a little adventure. With that, I wandered through small towns in the Sierras for a couple of weeks. My act was that of an errant bohemian.

Eventually, I ended up in Reno. Both my wallet and gas tank were empty. The only way to fill both was to get a job. I searched the want ads. A small ad got my attention. It stated the following: “Dealers Wanted. Trainees Welcome. The Nevada Club. 224 N. Virginia Street.” I went there the next day to apply for a job. I got in a line with others. A grumpy old man briefly talked with each person in line. When it was my turn, he bellowed “What do you want?” I said, “A job.” He asked a second question: “Are you a college kid.” I said “Yes. I just graduated.” He asked mathematical questions. I passed. With that he hired me as a trainee on the roulette wheel. At times he would also hire individuals coming out of prison or the nearby state mental institution. I fit in well.

I was graduating again – this time to a “real life” education. It would bring me deep into the depths of the colorful realms of the gambling world and politics in Nevada.

At that time Reno was

nearing the end of an era. The era began in 1931 with the legalization of gambling and “quickie divorces.” The roots were in the preceding decades when mining ran the state. The stories are colorful from these eras, if not legendary. During my lifetime of involvement in Nevada, relationships and friendships would develop with many of the most colorful and powerful people in the state. Although my heart resided here in CV, for all extents and purposes, I had become a Nevadan. Originally, I would live in Reno. Later, it would be Las Vegas.

My years of involvement in Nevada were largely in an era that has now passed. Time does march on. In recent years, I have been asked to do oral histories and talks at both the University of Nevada, Reno, and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The same with a museum in downtown Las Vegas. Its official title is the National Museum of Organized Crime & Law Enforcement. Thus far, I have not done so as I have had higher priorities.

Before ending this reflection on what I now call “Old

Reno,” you may wonder who the bellowing character was that hired me to work at the Nevada Club was in 1968. His name, and that of his wife, are engraved on a building on the campus of the University of Nevada, Reno. It is where I attended graduate school. Their names were Lincoln (Fitz) and Meta Fitzgerald. They were the owners of the Nevada Club and Nevada Lodge at Lake Tahoe. They died years ago and led very private lives. They gave millions of dollars to medical research and public education. They obeyed all laws and paid all taxes. They took care of their employees. Their backgrounds and lives now reside in the unknown darkness of time lost. That was their wish.

In 1993 I was visiting with Meta. Despite her financial wealth, her office was in a warehouse in Reno. Her desk was a card table. She no longer owned a hotel or casino. We talked about what brought her and Fitz to Reno from Detroit in 1946. As we talked, an assistant was shredding documents and records. It was not because they had done things that were illegal. It was because they were sensitive. Having an affinity for history, I urged her to not destroy everything. She firmly told me that she had promised

Fitz that she would do so when the time came. She then asked me to do the same with her. I reluctantly did. Her promise and request were understandable. It is an example of why the best histories are often buried alive. No books are done to memorialize them. It is perhaps as it should be. Old Reno and Old Las Vegas are now never more. Nonetheless, those times and persons reside deep within the memories of my life.

FILED FEB 28, 2023

MELISSA WILK County Clerk

ALAMEDA COUNTY

By----------, Deputy

FILE NO. 595922

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS

NAME STATEMENT

Pursuant to Business and Professions Code

Sections 17900-17930

The name of the business(es): Redwood Road Pizza Express Hayward, located at 22323 Redwood Road Castro Valley, CA 94546, CA 94546. in Alameda County, is hereby registered by the following owner(s): Dylonco, 22323 Redwood Road Castro Valley, CA 94546, CA 94546. This business is conducted by a a Corporation. This business commenced N/A /s/ Jagmeet Kaur

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Alameda County on date indicated by file stamp above. Expires FEB 27, 2028

MAR 01, 08, 16, 22, 2023 0566-CVF

Marion Nilla Girard

March 23, 1933 ~ March 11, 2023

On Saturday, March 11, 2023, surrounded by her children, Marion Nilla Girard passed away. Marion was born to James (Marty) Martin and Marion (Kelly) Martin in Oakland, CA, on March 23, 1933. She attended Oakland Technical High School and California State University, Hayward, earning a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Science in Educational Psychology. She started her career in Castro Valley Unified School District as a school counselor and, later, a marriage and family counselor at the Girard-Lindsay Counseling Center. Marion was a proud, long-time resident of Castro Valley. Marion spent most of her childhood in Oakland, where she grew up with her parents, sister Nancy and brother Bart. In her adult life, she lived for several years in Sacramento, CA, before relocating to Castro Valley in 1968, where she moved to the family ranch in Cull Canyon to be closer to her parents. It was at this place where she was happiest and truly at home. Regarded by neighbors as the “Queen of Cull Canyon,” she could often be seen riding her bicycle down the canyon road and was famous for her annual Fourth of July parties. Marion was one of several matriarchs amongst families living in Cull Canyon, and her presence in this capacity will be felt throughout the hills of the canyon.

Marion had many passions, including painting and quilting, hobbies which she was proud to pass along to her children and grandchildren. Marion was very creative, as she dabbled in carpentry and loved to work with her hands; she was truly an original DIY-er. She could frequently be seen by summer visitors reading poolside as she commented on the golden hills around her or walking around the property with a sparkle in her eye, taking in the day’s sights. Marion had a zest for adventure and enjoyed traveling with her family and friends to places worldwide, including Puerto Rico, Salt Lake City, Canada, and many more. To know Marion was to know strength, grit, and an immeasurable work ethic. She supported her children’s and grandchildren’s goals and passions, perfectly matching her “don’t take yourself too seriously” attitude. As the anchor of the Girard family, Marion hosted holiday gatherings in her home and united a group of relatives that, at times, spanned the globe.

She is survived by her daughters Patricia Koltko of Ithaca, NY, Gina O’Feral of Albion, CA, Marta Perry and husband Steve of Livermore, CA, and sons Justin Girard and partner Joanne Cartwright of Albany, CA and Bart Girard and wife Jocelyn of Castro Valley, CA. Marion had 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Lucy Bruns, Freestyle Skier

Our Athlete of the Week is Lucy Bruns, a Freshman at Castro Valley High School who is a nationally-ranked freestyle and moguls skier.

Lucy comes from a family of skiers and started skiing when she was about 2 years old. She joined the NorthStar Freestyle team at age 10, loving to ski “bumps” but was not sure what a mogul course was. She began training with the team, traveling up and back every weekend. Winter training turned into summer training as well.

Lucy trains on water ramps at Utah Olympic Park in Park City, and on snow at Mt. Hood in Government Camp, Oregon,

and in Whistler, Canada. She sacrifices every weekend from November to April and most of her summer for her sport.

Lucy’s first podium was at Palisades Tahoe in 2021. She qualified for US Junior National Championships in 2022 in Park City. This year, she got a spot on the US Ski Team Selections. She recently brought her backflip to the competition course and placed 9th overall at Snowbird, Utah, in February. She competed at the 2023 US Ski & Snowboard Junior Nationals last week and just got her first invitation to the 2023 US Ski Team National Championships at Waterville, New Hampshire, this week.

The

RCHS Seniors Awarded at CV Rotary Speech Contest

Last Monday, March 14, the Rotary Club of Castro Valley hosted the Club Level competition of the Richard D. King Annual Speech Contest at their weekly lunch meeting. Program Director John Aufdermauer served as Master of Ceremonies introducing the speakers.

Lucy Bruns

Abigail Hague, Ashlyn Miller, Ethan Neal, Julianna Loux, Kayla Chaudhary and Nathanael Butler, seniors from Redwood Christian High School were the contestants. Each of their speeches represented an understanding of this year’s Rotary International theme IMAGINE ROTARY, 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 Craig Semmelmeyer, Jim Phillips, Marco Jaramillo and Misti Short were up to the task.

Nathanael Butler was awarded first place, Ethan Neal was awarded second place, and Ashlyn Miller was awarded third place. In addition to all speakers receiving certificates with their achievement listed, Nathanael was awarded a check for $100, Ethan received a check for $50, and Ashlyn received a check for $25.

Due to both Nathanael and Ethan being on a missions service project to the Navajo Nation, Ashlyn will represent the Rotary Club of Castro Valley at the Area Speech Contest on March 28, 2023, at Dublin High School. The

Area Winner will advance to the Regional Level and the winner at Regional Level will advance to the District Speech Meet.

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 Redwood Canyon and online on Tuesdays at noon. Speakers and links to the meetings are posted at: castrovalleyrotary. org. The Club welcomes individuals who want to make a positive impact locally, nationally, and internationally.

Reports: Busted for Illegal Drugs

continued from page 3 with a loaded and concealed weapon, possessing a high-capacity magazine for the weapon, and possessing a weapon with a prior felony conviction. The man was driving on Castro Valley Boulevard near Redwood Road when deputies stopped him for a traffic violation. Deputies took the man to Santa Rita Jail.

Busted for Illegal Drugs

Wednesday, March 15: at 1:08 p.m., a 58-year-old woman

with no permanent residence was arrested on suspicion of possessing illegal narcotics and related drug paraphernalia.

Deputies stopped the woman for questioning outside a business on Redwood Road near Grove Way. During questioning, the woman revealed that she had drugs in her purse.

Deputies took the woman into custody.

Joy Ride Ends in Arrest

Tuesday, March 14: at 9:54 a.m., deputies pulled over and

arrested two people from Castro Valley suspected of driving and possessing a stolen vehicle in front of a liquor store on Redwood Road near the Boulevard. The driver, a 41-year-old woman, was additionally charged with possessing stolen property, driving with a suspended license, and possessing illegal drug paraphernalia. The passenger—a 40-year-old man— was additionally charged with possessing illegal drug paraphernalia. The couple was taken to Santa Rita Jail.

Matt Wilhite Team is proud to sponsor Athlete of the Week

PHOTO CREDIT: GARY BOSLEY

Front row L to R: Dr. Al Hearne (Superintendent of Redwood Christian Schools), 3rd place winner Ashlyn Miller, 1st place winner Nathanael Butler, 2nd place winner Ethan Neal, John Aufdermauer, contest chair and Club past president. Back row L to R: Dr. Evan Barnhart Assistant Principal, Redwood Christian High School, and Justin Redemer, Principal, Redwood Christian High School.