March 27, 2024

Have a Hoppy Easter Sunday

CASTRO VALLEY FORUM CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

YEAR 36

A COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SERVING CASTRO VALLEY SINCE 1989

MAC MEETING

New Director

De La Torre named CVUSD Multilingual Services Director

Page 3

TLC for Bat Storm weary mini bat gets rehab at Sulphur Creek Nature Center

Page 4

National Champ

CVHS alumna Ajayzee

Zaballos

Page 12

INDEX

Calendar ................ 10

Classified Ads ........ 8

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

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

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

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

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

Sheriff’s Report ..... 3

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

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

Grove Way Housing Reviewed

By Amy Sylvestri CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

A new affordable housing project is being proposed on Grove Way, the Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) heard at their meeting Monday night.

The property, located at 1467 Grove Way, about 250 feet from Foothill Boulevard, is owned by the City of Hayward and Berkeley-based affordable housing specialist group Resources for Community Development (RCD).

RCD currently has 5,000 residents in its affordable housing projects throughout the area.

RCD told the MAC they are looking into securing state funding to allow the project to come to fruition, and they are currently in a “hopeful stage.”

According to Nora Guzman of RCD, state funding decisions will be announced in August. Guzman said they are also looking at other funding sources and would return to the MAC with more detailed plans in the future.

The tentative plan would be to demolish four existing buildings on the see GROVE on page 11

HERE’S THE SCOOP!

KNUDSEN’S ICE CREAMERY REOPENING TOMORROW:

After three months of renovations, the Ice Creamery on Castro Valley Boulevard is scheduled to reopen tomorrow. The new space has half the dining area as it did last year but is still selling the ice cream, fountain drinks, grilled burgers, and sandwiches the community has known for 20 years. Owner Shay Knudsen says the restaurant will still sell its own chocolate and caramel confections but will make them at a separate site. The restaurant will be closed in observance of Easter Sunday.

MAC MEETING

Housing Mandate Problems

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Last Wednesday, community development and planning officials laid out a map of Alameda County’s unincorporated towns showing where they think property owners and developers can add 4,711 housing units in the next eight years to satisfy state law.

The proposed map includes houses, condominiums, apartment buildings, and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs, commonly called in-law units). Some construction is already underway. Other projects, like a plan to add apartments to the Castro Valley BART Station, are not included because they have either been postponed or – in the case of the Rite Aid property – are likely to retain their commercial status.

“To enable greater housing, we have proposed increased densities on about 50 vacant lots in parts of Castro Valley and Fairview,” said Alameda County Community Development Agency (CDA) planner Olivia Ortiz. “One of the elements of the overlay is that we will revisit our inventory twice a year see MAC on page 10

Gemignani: The Michael Jordan of Pizza Tossing

By Dave Del Grande SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Preparing to give a speech at the annual International Pizza Expo & Conference in Las Vegas last week, Tony Gemignani looked around as he pondered the ultimate question: Are pizza-throwers athletes?

“I know if I asked about a hundred guys standing behind me right now, they’d all say yes,” he responded. And so has the Castro Valley Sports Hall of Fame

selection committee, which has selected the multiple world champion and Guiness World Record-holder to be part of its Class of 2024.

“You are sweating afterward,” Gemignani noted, siding with the majority on the athlete issue.

He’s called the Michael Jordan of Pizza-Tossing, the LeBron James of Pizza-Making … all because, as a Fremont teen-ager, he quit his job at McDonald’s to join his older brother Frank in his new

endeavor: Pyzano’s Pizzeria in Castro Valley.

“I grew up on a farm,” Gemignani, now 50, said of his youth in Fremont after having been born in Alameda. “We grew apricots, cherries, oranges, basil, tomatoes … I love food. Food has always been a big part of my life.

“When I was graduating (from Washington High in 1991), my brother found Castro Valley. He liked the city, and he thought it would be a good place to put a pizzeria. I went

to work for him. I fell in love with it.”

Gemignani also fell in love with Castro Valley. He moved into town in 1997 and immediately started hiring high school students to work for him.

“Pyzano’s was always that restaurant that you started out at for your first job,” he proudly states. “It was a great job to start at – learn customer service and discipline. We had so many great employees. It was awesome.”

see PIZZA on back page

Tony Gemignani

By Jagmeet Kaur Sangha SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

As the years have passed and our social understanding of the autism spectrum has increased, we are beginning to recognize the boundless abilities of autistic individuals instead of focusing on the limitations.

This movement from the medical model to the social model understands that many of the barriers we have set on people come from how society is organized around our attitudes and stereotypes of how things should be. In the medical model, our focus has been to “fix” or “change” individuals so that they can fit into the world we have created as “typical.” Within the social model, we analyze barriers that may keep a person from achieving their potential and then create support structures to help them reach it.

In my work, I focus on employment. How can we create opportunities for individuals with cognitive differences to access meaningful work?

Employment has many benefits for society: financial independence, access to the community, a sense of identity, mental and physical wellness, and much more. However, a population is not getting access to contribute to the workforce mainly because of our social expectations of what defines a “good job candidate.”

Many employers are seeking a “cultural fit” for their organization. This can breed further stereo-

types because people typically hire someone they find like themselves. This can make it very difficult for an individual who has autistic characteristics to get through the initial interview process.

Autism traits can include differences in communication or social skills, repetitive behaviors, focus on specific interests, or sensitivity to the environment, such as lights, sounds, or smells. It can become challenging for individuals who struggle in these domains to connect with employers or find vocational opportunities that can see beyond these superficial differences.

Imagine a candidate coming in for an interview and not making consistent eye contact. During the interview, they rocked back and forth continuously. When you ask specific questions about the job they are applying for, they give you short and direct answers. But their responses are all correct. Would you hire them?

Now, let’s look at these same characteristics through a different lens. In the above example, that candidate has the answers. They know how to complete the job. With their focus and repetitive behaviors, they can stay committed to the

tasks and diligently complete the work. Would you hire them?

The same traits that society was once unaware of are not beginning to be recognized as a great ability - if we create the right environments to support it. Companies are becoming increasingly aware of the social and business benefits a neurodiverse workforce can bring to an organization. Increased productivity leads to higher levels of retention and greater innovation and creativity. These are all workplace advantages that employers can gain from hiring autistic employees. And yet, 85 percent of autistic adults are still unemployed.

More work must be done to recruit and offer opportunities to autistic adults. Doing so will help the individual unleash more potential in the workplace and create ripple effects in society, promoting independence for a larger community supporting the individual. If you are an employer looking to increase your awareness and understanding of autism in your workplace, please reach out.

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

3321 Castro Valley Blvd

De La Torre Named CVUSD Multilingual Services Director

By Josie de la Torre SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Castro Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) selected Doris De La Torre as its new Multilingual Services Director on March 13.

De La Torre is a longtime CVUSD employee and started its Dual Spanish Language Immersion program in 2022.

“I feel very honored to be able to support our multilingual students and families throughout our District. I grew up in Castro Valley as a multilingual learner and always wanted to give back to the community that helped me. It is one of the reasons why I started teaching in Castro Valley 21 years ago,” said De La Torre.

Raised in Castro Valley, De La Torre attended Proctor Elementary, Canyon Middle see CVUSD on page 10

Doris De La Torre, Multilingual Services Director

The Weather and You: Spring is Here

By Mike Pechner SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

It is Spring and we have had some spring weather last week when we hit 70 in Oakland and 75 in the Tri-Valley. This nice warm-up is almost a memory now as the pendulum has swung back to winter. The Sierra has seen over a foot of new snow. Norden at historic Donner Summit on old US 40, the Lincoln Highway now has 88” off snow on the ground and seasonal total snowfall to

date of 307”. The last three days of this week could see another 48” of new snow pushing the total above the average annual.l snowfall of 350”. This is excellent news because this will give us the first back to back winters of above snowfall in quite awhile. The water supply at EBMUD shows total system storage of all the Lakes and reservoirs is at 84%, which is 105% of the historic average. This years Spring run-off should fill all off the High Sierra lakes and reservoirs.

Looking at Longer Range Forecast Models, rain is likely for the last weekend of March which will spill into the first of April. El Nino is waining and it appears that we are going into La Niña by the start of summer. Looking at statistics which look at summer temperatures for La Niña following an El Niño Winter show near to below normal temperatures for the entire East Bay and Tri Valley area which boils down to average to below averages temperatures for the summer.

Sheriff’s Reports

COMPILED BY MICHAEL SINGER • CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

Public Intoxication

Sunday, March 24: At 1:11 a.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested a 58-year-old CV man on suspicion of public intoxication. The man was hanging outside a motel on the Boulevard near Stanton Avenue when deputies arrived to investigate a suspicious person. The man failed his field sobriety test and was taken into custody.

Assaulted a Deputy

Saturday, March 23: At 2:50 p.m., a 36-year-old man with no permanent residence was arrested on suspicion of assaulting a peace officer and resisting arrest. Deputies stopped the man for questioning outside a business on Redwood Road and the Boulevard. The man became confrontational and took a swing at the deputy. The deputy subdued the man and took him into custody.

Drunk and Disorderly

Saturday, March 23: At 11:18 a.m., deputies arrested a 30-year-old CV man on suspicion of being under the influence of alcohol and resisting arrest. The man was hanging outside a home on Lake Chabot Road near Sydney Way when deputies stopped him for being under the influence of alcohol. The man put up a fight but was taken into custody.

Arrested for Prowling

Friday, March 22: At 10:39 a.m., a 32-year-old man with no permanent residence was arrested on suspicion of prowling a neighborhood and

possessing illegal drug paraphernalia. Deputies responded to a call about a suspicious person outside an apartment complex on Redwood Court. The man was handcuffed and taken into custody.

Assaulted Family Member

Friday, March 22: At 11:48 p.m., deputies arrested a 43-year-old CV man on suspicion of assault on a family member. The man was traveling near the 10000 block of Dublin Canyon Road when deputies stopped him following a report of an altercation. The man was taken into custody.

Drove on Drugs

Friday, March 22: At 2:08 a.m., a 32-year-old CV man was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of narcotics and resisting arrest. Deputies pulled the man over at the intersection of Wisteria Street and the Boulevard for a traffic violation and discovered the man was under the influence. The man became confrontational with deputies before he was handcuffed and taken into custody.

Elder Abuse

Thursday, March 21: At 7:33 p.m., deputies arrested a 59-year-old CV woman on suspicion of elder abuse. The woman was at a home on Almond Road near Casa La Cresta when deputies responded to a report of putting the older woman in harm’s way that would cause bodily harm. Deputies took the woman into custody.

Caught with Explosives

Wednesday, March 20: At 11:56 p.m., a 911 call about a loud and aggressive-sounding argument sent deputies to a home on Rizzo Avenue near Lake Chabot Road. There, they arrested a 48-year-old man from Castro Valley on suspicion of assault on a family member, false imprisonment, damaging a cell phone used to call for help, violating the terms of a restraining order, possessing explosives, and vandalizing the home. The man also had a warrant out for his arrest for a prior conviction of illegal possession of a handgun. Deputies took the man to Santa Rita Jail.

Donate a Car to FUMI

Follow Up Prison Ministries, Internatinal is in desperate need of a car for traveling to and from the California State Prisons. Currently, our President is using his own car and is in need of relief. If you have a second car that you are not using, please consider

donating it to FUMI. Hopefully, a car that gets great freeway mileage and is in good running order will meet our current needs. Your donation is tax deductible. Please contact Paul Weber, FUMI Office Manager, at 510-881-1178 for more information.

Storm Weary Bat Gets Dose of Loving Care at Sulphur Creek

By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM

A small California bat received a large dose of tender loving care from Sulphur Creek Nature Center staff following the storms earlier this month.

Wednesday, March 27:

The LAB feat. Courtney Jean

The Lab is a monthly gathering that allows songwriters and poets to workshop and collaborate on new and existing pieces through exercises and brief performances, in front of and among friends. This month’s featured artist is local Smalltown band Courtney

Jean (pictured above). Starts at 7:30pm. Invitation by email only: info@smalltownsociety. com for more info and location.

Saturday, March 30:

The Magnificent Chill 2 at The Chabot Theater Mark your calendars and get ready for another unforgettable in-person event at The Chabot

Theater. Join us for a night of live music, delicious food, off the wall vendors and good vibes. Immerse yourself in the cool atmosphere and enjoy the company of musicians, music enthusiasts and fans of our awesome lineup (including: Lyrical Ops, The Black Excellence Band, Corazon, January the Artist, Beebo and more!

A Castro Valley area resident found the bat in their yard, put it in a cardboard box, and brought it to the Center on D Street in Hayward on March 7. Staff identified it as an adult California Myotis, a species of brown bat that weighs the same as a US nickel (less than 0.19 ounces) and gets no larger than a credit card (3 1/2 inches).

Upon examination, the bat was cold and wet but displayed no signs of illness or injury, indicating it likely just needed a little time to recuperate. Naturalists at Sulphur Creek gave the bat a dinner of mealworms and kept it warm and dry.

After a few days of monitoring and flying rehabilitation, staff successfully released the bat into its natural habitat.

Because it is so small, the California Myotis (Myotis californicus) typically roosts in buildings, cracks, and under the shelter of the bark of sycamore, willow, and cottonwood trees. They typically eat beetles, moths, flies, and spiders. They prefer to live in brush and forest habitats along the coastline through the Tehachapi Mountains from the Oregon border.

California is home to a diverse array of bat species, with twenty-five varieties throughout the state. Sulphur Creek naturalists say these mammals play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, serving as efficient pest control and, in some cases, as pollinators. It’s not the first bat to be treated for injuries at the Sulphur Creek Nature Center, but the site’s hospital reopened in January 2024 and is currently ready to assist injured wildlife in the area.

“While encounters with wildlife like bats can be fascinating, it’s important to remember that they are best appreciated from a respectful distance,” said Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (H.A.R.D.) spokesperson Nicole Espinoza Roa. Roa suggests contacting the Sulphur Creek Nature Center if you encounter a wild animal in distress. More information can be found on their websiteHaywardRec.org/nature or by calling (510) 881-6747.

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GR8 OUTDOORS: Avoid the eight most common mistakes when using outdoor power equipment.

As the weather warms and people are coaxed outside to their yards and managed landscapes, it’s time for everyone to remember how to use their outdoor power equipment safely and properly.

“Think safety first,” says Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), an international trade association representing outdoor power equipment, small engine, utility vehicle, golf car and personal transport vehicle manufacturers and suppliers. “I can’t stress enough to review manufacturer’s safety guidance before starting up any equipment—especially your lawn mower. Review your owner’s manual and do maintenance on your equipment.”

Also being aware of surroundings is key, he adds. “And be sure to keep kids and pets away from outdoor power equipment while it’s in use.”

OPEI urges homeowners and other equipment users to avoid these eight most common mistakes when using outdoor power equipment.

1. Thinking all mowers are the same. You need to know how to handle your specific equipment correctly, and do basic operations like turning it off or on and controlling speed. Review your owner’s manual and how to use the equipment before use.

2. Not inspecting equipment before use. Always look over equipment before operating it. Check the air filter, oil level and gasoline tank. Watch for loose belts and missing or damaged parts. Replace any parts needed or take your equipment to a qualified service representative.

3. Not walking through your yard or work area before starting to mow or using other outdoor power equipment. Always walk the area you intend to work in, and look for and remove objects, sticks and other items that could create a hazard.

see OUTDOOR on back page

Top Ten Backyarding Trends for 2024

“Backyarding” – the act of taking activities typically associated with the indoors outside into the green space around us – will continue taking root in 2024, according to the TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care and use of green space, including our own backyards, community parks, green space, and school yards.

The TurfMutt Foundation predicts these 10 backyarding trends for 2024:

Improving Existing Space (Rather Than Moving to a New One). High interest rates and low housing inventory mean more homeowners have chosen to renovate rather than move into a new home. With interior improvements complete, the focus turns to backyard improvements that customize the outdoor space and artfully merge indoor and outdoor living.

Seeking a Home Near a Park or Nature. Even homeowners looking to downsize still want to maintain a connection with nature. They know backyarding can happen in any size yard and seek additional connection to nature through community parks, school yards, and other green space.

Return of Neighborhood Parties… in the Backyard. Over the last several years, homeowners have invested in their outdoor living areas, and now they are using that space to bring back neighborhood block parties in their own backyards.

Creating a Backyard Oasis for Fun. From parents looking for ways to lure their kids away from screens to neighbors wanting to connect with friends, homeowners are turning their backyards into a place for fun and games. Some go all out to install a pool while others take a simpler approach like designating a strip of grass for cornhole or a small soccer pitch.

Taking Better Care of Living Landscapes. Since homeowners have come to value their lawns, trees, and plants more than ever, they are investing in their care like never before. This means investing in equipment for DIY work and calling in professionals, as needed, for pruning, rescuing diseased trees, and revitalizing turfgrass, just to name a few.

Choosing Real Grass. The trend of ripping out real grass and replacing it with fake, plastic alternatives is fading as

Select plants for yard with pollinators in mind

homeowners and communities recognize the limitations – and downsides – of plastic grass. Synthetic turf is hard to clean, hot on feet and paws, and difficult to recycle.

Planting for Pollinators.

Once a niche practice, planting for pollinator support is omnipresent. Homeowners understand the importance of their backyards to provide food and shelter to pollinators like birds, butterflies, and bats year-round.

And they are selecting plants

for their yards with pollinators in mind.

Adding Drought Tolerant Plants. Plants that are especially adapted to drier landscapes are better for water-stressed areas in our environment. Homeowners are doing their research and selecting plants that will thrive in their micro-climates.

Mixing Materials. As outdoor living has become incorporated into daily life, homeowners are taking care to design cohesive outdoor spaces. They factor in landscaping, hardscaping (patios, outdoor kitchens, etc.), and natural aesthetics (trees, boulders, etc.).

Backyard Birding. The birdwatching craze really took flight during the pandemic, but it’s not a fleeting fad. Birdwatching is not only relaxing; it is a great way to connect with nature right outside our back doors.

For more, sign up for Mutt Mail, a monthly e-newsletter with backyarding tips and all the news from the TurfMutt Foundation here. To learn more about creating the yard of your dreams, visit TurfMutt.com.

REAL ESTATE GALLERY REAL ESTATE GALLERY

REAL ESTATE REALITY

By Carl Medford, CRS

Special to the Forum

California Insurance Woes Adding Complexity To Home Purchases

By Carl Medford, CRS

Special to the Forum

while it has become increasingly difficult to buy a home over the past two years due to rising interest rates and decreasing inventory, there is one additional factor plaguing the homebuying process that is becoming ever more concerning:

Purchasing homeowner’s insurance.

To say that California has an insurance problem would be a significant understatement, as evidenced by State Farm’s recent announcement that it will not renew 70,000 policies in the Golden State over the coming year, affecting approximately 2% of its statewide policies. This is in addition to its decision in 2023 to no longer write business or personal property and casualty insurance in the country’s most populated state.

Recent rampant natural disasters nationwide have contributed to the issue, including California’s spate of wildfires and have been worsened by rising inflation and the exploding costs of rebuilding after a

catastrophe. At the heart of the issue, however, is the fundamental disagreement between insurers and the California Insurance Commissioner with its’ decades old regulations.

Michael R. Blood, in an AP article dated June 5th, 2023, clarifies by stating, “(California) Voters approved Proposition 103 in 1988, which allows the state insurance commissioner to reject proposed rate increases and order refunds. It has been credited with saving consumers billions of dollars, but the industry says it places constraints on accurate underwriting and pricing risk.”

This is not just a State Farm issue as other companies such as Allstate have already stated they are not writing new policies in California. Those companies that remain are hiking their rates to sustain any semblance of profitability. Consequently, a growing number of homeowners statewide are choosing to go without insurance.

While it might be possible for an existing homeowner to own their home without insurance, it is not an option for those who are looking to

purchase with financing since lenders will not fund until a homeowner’s policy is in place. This fact is delaying some escrows as buyers are scrambling to locate insurance at the last minute.

Here is the bottom line: since it is now more difficult to obtain a homeowner’s insurance policy for a new purchase, it is critical that potential buyers begin looking for a carrier willing to insure their purchase BEFORE

THEY ACTIVLEY START LOOKING AT HOMES.

We are in a new reality, and buyers need to preemptively

take the steps necessary to ensure they are fully capable of completing a purchase.

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 If predicted rains actually materialize this week, pulling weeds will be a much easier job. Weeding with bare hands is 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.

RECENT HOME SALES

Castro Valley

$575,500

29234 Hub Lane 94544: $635,000 [1 BD - 1,000 SF - 2020

706 Kingsford Way 94541: $735,000 [3 BD - 1,381 SF - 2003

274 West Jackson Street 94544: $755,000 [3 BD - 951 SF - 1949

1315 Highland Boulevard 94542: $775,000 [2 BD - 839 SF - 1947

27855 Lanai Court 94544: $788,500 [4 BD - 1,406 SF - 1953

504 B Street 94541: $800,000 [2 BD - 1,294 SF - 1905

27522 Orlando Avenue 94545: $826,000 [3 BD - 1,119 SF - 1955

24847 Thomas Avenue #24845 94544: $850,000 [4 BD - 1,500 SF - 1954

153 Cue Way 94544: $873,000 [2 BD - 1,718 SF - 2019

402 Saint Andrews Street 94544: $1,000,000 [3 BD - 1,837 SF - 1951

TOTAL SALES: 12

LOWEST AMOUNT: $540,000 MEDIAN AMOUNT: $781,750

TOTAL

Roadside Redbud Wrongly

Relished

Treat whitefly problems early before population explosion gets out of hand

By Buzz Bertolero The Dirt Gardener

QOur redbud is colorful but it’s not as pretty as the ones next to the freeway. I’m wondering if pruning will produce a more-pronounced bloom because of the compact shape. If so, when should it be pruned?

AThe best time to prune redbuds, flowering cherries, crabapples, plums and pears is after the blooming period.

Flowering trees are planted for their spring color. Pruning them earlier will only reduce the color show, as there are no horticultural reasons to prune any earlier.

Because this is not the norm, what usually occurs is that these trees rarely get pruned. This results in trees that are structurally a mess… even though they look okay from a distance. Typically, the scaffolding branches of roadside redbuds are poorly selected, and there are lots of rubbing and crossing branches. The center of the canopy is crowded and congested with long whiplike stems, and it’s also not unusual to find some larger-caliber branches curled or twisted around another. Ironically, an unhealthy dense canopy will always produce a more-intense color show compared to one that is properly pruned.

Those brightly blooming redbuds along the freeway typically hide a mess of branches under their dense canopies.

crease the bloom by encouraging growth with Dr. Earth All Purpose Fertilizer or 1616-16.

Flowering and shade trees are typically fed annually after pruning.

QI have whiteflies and they are just taking over my yard. Any suggestions? I would really appreciate any input.

AIt’s awful early for whiteflies to be a problem in a garden, so I’m surprised you’re faced with them alread.

You are the most successful in dealing with whiteflies by watching out for them early.

mary host plants are present. The adults are attracted to the color yellow. As the temperature warms up, check the cards for the trapped adults.

Once you find 6 to 12 adults, check under the leaves of the surrounding plants for the insects. If just a few leaves were infected, I’d pick them off and discard them. For a larger population, spray with any one of the several types of horticultural oil such as Neem or All Season Oil.

In your case, I’d spray the host plant(s) now.

The whitefly population builds quickly, as the days get longer and temperatures warm up. They are a big problem after Memorial Day; but, again, you need to start early to keep the population under control.

Mortgage Rates Increase, Nearing Seven Percent

After decreasing for a couple of weeks, mortgage rates are once again on the upswing. As the spring homebuying season gets underway, existing home inventory has increased slightly and new home construction has picked up. Despite elevated rates, homebuilders are displaying renewed confidence in the housing market, focusing on the fact that there is a good amount of pent-up demand, an ongoing supply shortage and expectations that the Federal Reserve will cut rates later in the year.

Eventually, they do get pruned, if you want to call it that, as the trees are given a “buzz cut” with a chainsaw. At random points, you’ll see large-diameter limbs sticking up — naked in the air. They look just terrible; but, like a bad haircut, they do grow back.

Let me get down off my soapbox and finish addressing your question. Pruning properly will direct and manage the growth the tree produces. You can in-

Fuchsias, pyracantha, and escallonias are the primary ornamental host. During the summer months, squashes, cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers and melons tend to be a magnet for them.

To monitor the activity, I’d place yellow sticky cards in those areas where the pri-

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.

BUZZ BERTOLERO

THE DIRT GARDENER

taking jobs that

or

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.

GARDENING

*BEAUTYGARDEN LANDSCAPING

or

IF YOUR GARAGE SALE IS RAINED OUT, WE'LL RUN YOUR AD AGAIN FOR NO EXTRA CHARGE. SLTimes

FENCES/DECKS

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

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

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

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

GARDENING

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

GIVEAWAYS

FREE - Bedside toilet in good condition. 510-504-7016.

FREE - Black futon. Please call 510575-4620.

HANDYMAN SERVICE

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

HAULING SERVICE

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

HELP WANTED

LOST & FOUND

On 12/20/2023, a citizen dropped off found currency to the San Leandro Police Department. The citizen stated the currency was found on E. 14th Street between Maud and Elsie. The owner must give a description of the currency, the amount and exact denominations. If you are the owner, please call 510-577-3224.

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

Now hiring! Apply Online: haywardrec.org/employment HOPE YOU FIND just the job you are looking for!

HOME SERVICES GUIDE

Help for the homeowner means business for you!

To Place an Ad ... Call 614-1558

MISC. WANTED

Follow Up Prison Ministries, Int’l. is in desperate need of a car for traveling to and from the California State Prisons.Currently, our President is using his own car and is in need of relief.

If you have a second car that you are not using, please consider donating it to FUMI.Hopefully, a car that gets great freeway mileage and is in good running order will meet our current needs.

Your donation is tax deductible!

Please contact Paul Weber, FUMI Office Manager, at 510-881-1178 for more information.

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

RENTALS

San Leandro 62+ Community, quiet, private court, 2-Bdrm, 1-bath duplex. Dishwasher, washer and dryer. NO pets, no smoking. $1,900+ $1,900 deposit. 925-980-8943.

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

HANDYMAN & CONTRACTORS You

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)

#SAVELUNCH CAMPAIGN: Hayward Area Recreation & Park District Board President, Peter Rosen, Eden Health District Board Chairs Roxann Lewis & Pamela Russo and Eden Health District CEO, Mark Friedman, prepare and distribute healthy meals to Castro Valley residents at Kenneth C.Aitken Senior & Community Center as part of Spectrum Community Services’ Champions Week.

Local Leaders Rally in Support Of Senior Nutrition Programs

By Caryl Mahar SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

Community leaders from various organizations joined forces at the Kenneth C. Aitken Senior & Community Center to lend their support to Spectrum Community Services’ Champions Week.

As part of the nationwide #SaveLunch campaign, these Community Champions participated in preparing and distributing healthy meals to seniors in Castro Valley. The initiative comes amidst Congress’s deliberations on federal funding levels for Fiscal Year 2024, aiming to combat senior hunger and isolation in Alameda County and beyond.

Among those who volunteered their time were Peter Rosen & Rick Hatcher, Hayward Area Recreation & Park District Board Members, Ed Hernandez, Roxann Lewis and Pamela Russo, Eden Health

District Board Chairs, and Mark Friedman, CEO of Eden Health District. Their presence highlighted the importance of community involvement in ensuring the well-being of senior citizens.

By actively participating in activities like meal distribution, these leaders showcased their dedication to supporting initiatives that combat senior hunger and isolation. The Champions Week serves as a reminder of the vital role that community support plays in addressing the nutritional and social needs of seniors. Each meal prepared and shared embodies not just sustenance, but also a profound message of care, compassion, and interconnectedness.

Spectrum Community Services stands resolute in its mission to enhance the quality of life of every eligible senior in our community, ensuring they receive the nourishment and support they rightfully

deserve. Spectrum Community Services is encouraging more people to sign up for senior lunch programs at their 12 distribution sites throughout the county. Senior Meals are available at Kenneth C. Aitken Senior & Community Center 17800 Redwood Road, Monday through Thursday from 12pm to 12:30pm. Anyone who is aged 60 or better is eligible to register to come get a meal. To make a reservation at Kenneth Aitken Senior & Community center please call: 510-881-6738.

To learn more about how Meals on Wheels opens the door to addressing social connection and safety through the delivery of healthy meals tailored to the needs of older adults, visit www.MealsOnWheelsAmerica.org or www. SpectrumCS.org. To learn more about #SaveLunch and the ways you can take action, visit www.SaveLunch.org.

CVUSD: Multilingual Services Director

continued from page 3 School and Castro Valley High School. She earned her Bachelor’s, Master’s, and teaching credentials from Cal State East Bay.

Previously, De La Torre had taught second grade at Castro Valley Elementary. In that role, she also served as an English Learner Site Coach and then a Response to Intervention Specialist until 2014. She moved on to work as an Assistant Principal at Canyon Middle School until 2018.

“We are extremely fortunate to have Ms. De La Torre leading our school district’s multilingual services. Her expertise and experience coupled with her passion will greatly benefit our students,” said Superintendent Ahmadi.

“As Castro Valley Unified School District’s new Multilingual Service Director, I will be able to continue the work

MAC: CV’s Perennial Problem

continued from front page so that we can comply with a ‘no net-loss’ rule, which basically means that, if we say a housing site is going to be 100 units and it ends up only being 50, we have to make up that 50 somewhere else.”

Representatives from the surrounding Eden Area, Castro Valley, and Fairview Municipal Advisory Councils (MAC) and the public attending the meeting were skeptical. Many voiced concerns about a lack of infrastructure, transit access, economic support, and challenging terrain.

“Fairview has areas with only one or two exit points,” said Fairview MAC member Dale Silva. “One of the big problems with increasing density is how do you get people out in an emergency?”

“The perennial problem in Castro Valley is that some of the schools are already overcrowded,” said CV MAC member Tojo Thomas. “I think that will have to be addressed as well as the traffic congestion we already see feeding up to the hills along Redwood Road and Center Street.”

“It seems like there are concentrated areas of affluence and racially or ethnically concentrated areas of poverty,” said Eden MAC member Jennifer Esteen. “We see that 80 percent of low and very low-income units will be in Ashland or Castro Valley. How is this actually doing what the state is asking? It seems like we’re going to continue to concentrate low-income housing in those areas.”

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Tonight • Wednesday, March 27

Free Community Band Concert

Has the wet weather been getting you down?. Mark your calendars and invite your friends for a free Spring concert put on by Castro Valley Adult & Career Education. Tonight at 7:30pm Kathy Maier will lead the Castro Valley Community Band in a concert celebrating music from around the United States as well as foreign lands. The concert is FREE and at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts. Come out and celebrate the coming of Spring!

March 29th and March 30th

Easter Musical at Redwood Chapel Redwood Chapel would like to invite you to the spring Easter musical full of inspiration, community spirit, and faith on March 29th and March 30th at 6:30pm. Join the community in the mesmerizing orchestra, vocals, and acting of Castro Valley residents who will dive deep into the timeless question: Who actually is Jesus? and bring to life his teachings and impact on humanity. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable Easter experience that goes beyond the stage! Redwood Chapel is located at 19300 Redwood Rd.

Saturday, March 30

HARD 79th Annual Egg Hunt and Bonnet Parade

The Hayward Area Recreation and Park District will be hosting the 79th Annual Egg Hunt and Bonnet Parade on Satuday, March 30 beginning at 9am at Kennedy Park (19501 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward). Bonnet Parade restration will begin promptly at 9am. The Bonnet Parade, led by the Bunny, will begin right after the egg hunt. Bonnet Parade participants must be 6 years and under. All bonnets must be homemade and be worn by the participants during the parade to qualify. The Egg Hunt will start directly at 10am. The event will take place rain or shine.

Saturday, March 30

Eden Garden Club Plant Sale

Sponsored by Eden Garden Club the Plant Sale is held at Paradise Gardens located at 20095 Mission Blvd. in Hayward from 10am to 3pm. The Plant Sale features vegetables, perennials, succulents, shrubs, natives, garden art, pottery, garden supplies and tools. Donations of plants and garden related items in good condition are accepted from 5:30am to 9:30am. Proceeds are given for School Garden Grants awarded to CVUSD and HUSD schools. For more information, please email: edengardenclub@yahoo.com

that is close to my heart. I will work more closely with our multilingual students across the whole district from Transitional Kindergarten through 12th grade, support teachers, staff and families, and also continue to build the Dual Language Immersion program,” said De La Torre.

According to the CVUSD website, 13 percent of students identify as English Language Learners.

Since 1969, state laws require that all cities and counties adequately plan to meet the housing needs of people at all income levels in the community. Local governments meet this requirement by adding housing plans to their “general plan.” Every eight years, cities and counties update this plan, also called a “housing element.” The current plan under consideration would take effect this spring and be reviewed in 2031.

The CDA’s proposed plan would add 1,276 in Ashland and 247 in Cherryland. San Lorenzo would see an additional 629 units constructed. Hayward Acres would be asked to construct 38 more units. Castro Valle could see 1,858 units added to its town, while Fairview would be asked to build 531 more. see MAC on page 11

Saturday, March 30

A.R.T., Inc. Demo: Tejal Shah Mixed Media Artist

Drawing inspiration from the rich hues of nature, Tejal Shah’s artwork seamlessly integrates elements of realism, impressionism, and abstract art. Attend her free art demo this Saturday, March 30, from 2 to 4pm at Adobe Art Gallery & Center (20395 San Miguel Ave., Castro Valley).

Tuesday, April 2

Start Smart: Teen Driver Program at CV Library

The California Highway Patrol and the Castro Valley Library will hold their Start Smart: Teen Driver Program on Tuesday, April 2, from 6 to 8 pm at the CV Library. CHP officers will discuss traffic collision avoidance techniques, collision causing factors, driver/parent responsibilities, and seatbelt usage. The Start Smart program is a driver safety education class which targets new and future licensed teenage drivers between the age of 15 - 19 and their parents/ guardians. A parent/guardian is required to attend the class with their teen. Registration is required for this FREE program. To register, call the Library Information Desk at 510-667-7900 or register online at www.aclibrary.org

PHOTO CREDIT: LARRY ROSA

Letters to the Editor

Email

In Response to Mr. Papachristos’ Letter

In response to Mr. Papachristos’s “Letter

To The Editor” dated March 20, 2024, I am left wondering why so many people fall victim to fear-induced politics, especially considering what we all should have learned about this nasty ploy from the days of Hitler.

Mr. Papachristos, you compiled a litany of headline charges that paint Biden as a monster, but you did not provide one piece of evidence to support a single charge. Time has a way of proving truth, and in this case, time has shown your supposition that “Biden looks like he is

headed for a possible impeachment due to his son’s business dealings and his involvement with Ekraine (sic), China, Russia, etc.” is simply untrue. The only current presidential candidate who has been brought up on impeachment charges (twice), who has been found liable in a court of law for a sexual assault, and is currently facing felony charges (over 80) is the one you are proudly supporting. I hope that once your intoxication wears off you will not be hurting too badly.

–Brian Foster, Castro Valley

Money Dropped on Greenridge Road

I am submitting this letter to help someone retrieve what they lost on Greenridge Road. I found a non-trivial amount of money and am willing, with the help of the Forum editor, to return this money to the rightful owner. If the owner of this money can name the amount

of money and the denominations, can name the day the money was lost, and the location where the money was lost (house address), I will give the money to the Forum editor to pass to the owner. Please no scammers. Just trying to do the right thing.

Grove: ‘Bridge Court’ Development

continued from front Grove Way site and renovate two others to create “Bridge Court,” a housing development with seven residential units and one retail space.

This would not impact current residents, as the property is not fully occupied, Guzman added.

The MAC expressed that they’d like to see some sort of childcare element included in Bridge Court, as has been the case with other affordable housing developments. They said they hoped RCD would be successful in its attempts to secure state money.

“We wish you all the luck with your funding- we hope you get it all,” said MAC Vice Chair Chuck Moore.

T-Mobile Towers on Crow Canyon

Also, at this week’s meeting, the MAC continued a vote on a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) to allow T-Mobile to continue operating a cell tower in the agricultural area. Currently, telecommunications companies Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile all operate antennae at faculties located at 10410 Crow Canyon Road.

Many of these have been operating since the late 1990s and early 2000s, with ten-year CUPs periodically expiring and renewing.

The issue is that, for the past twenty years, the condition of the CUPs has been that the towers be camouflaged in some way, and they have not been. They are currently housed in small buildings.

The MAC continued the

T-Mobile CUP, but they aren’t the only ones that do not comply with the desired landscape and camouflage conditions.

The MAC said it’s time to start requiring compliance moving forward.

“To be perfectly honest with you, it’s pretty ugly,” said Moore of the facility, which is visible on the ridge top.

Moore said that more modern cell towers, often disguised as trees and other natural structures, are as visually disruptive.

“It’s a good start to require (landscape improvements) so they don’t become unsightly,” said Moore. “God knows we need the service- we don’t want to discourage it.”

MAC member Ken Carbone agreed, “It’s a needed service, there’s no doubt. Hopefully, the conditions will be met.”

MAC: Labor and Construction Costs

continued from previous page And while there are consequences from the state if the housing units are not built, it is unlikely that all 4,711 units will see completion. Several speak-

ers at the meeting expressed to housing officials the headwinds of higher interest rates and rising labor and construction costs.

Community Development

FROM THE BOULEVARD

The Dedication of Former First Lady Rosalyn Carter

By Thomas Lorentzen SPECIAL TO THE FORUM

It was four months ago that former First Lady Rosalyn Carter passed. I doubt if she ever heard about Castro Valley, yet she advocated for matters of concern for us and wrote about them as well. That is because her concerns were our concerns. That is the connection between her and us. Two of her most noted concerns impact millions of people in our nation either directly or indirectly. They are the subjects of caregiving and mental health. These are common problems among us, and reside with ubiquity in our town, state, and nation. Her awareness of the importance of caregiving and of caregivers began in her childhood. Her dad developed leukemia and died when Carter was thirteen. Her mother and family gave care to her father at home until he passed. Given this experience, she developed a sense of purpose that traveled with her for the rest of her life. A similar thing happened to my mother, which made caregiving a centerpiece of her life as well. Unknown to me, she started training me as a boy to understand this “fact of life” and to step up to the

Agency’s overlay map and housing element plan are available online. (https://www. acgov.org/cda/planning/housing-element/draft-sites-inventory.htm)

Golf Courses Topic of Rotary Meeting

Ralph Freightman, Regional Manager-Norcal for Touchstone Golf and Assistant General Manager, Alex Herron, will provide an update to the CV Rotary on Redwood Canyon and talk about the Golf Courses direction for 2024. A buffet lunch and the program take place at Redwood Canyon Golf Course (17007 Redwood Road, Castro Valley) at 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. The cost of lunch is $20 and reservations

must be made by 9pm on Sunday, March 31, by contacting Rotary by email at: cvrotary@ iCloud.com or 510-4025123. More information is available on their website at: castrovalleyrotary.org.

responsibility when needed. With that, I followed in my mother’s footsteps. Rosalyn Carter did the same, except she ended up on the national stage as a lead educator and advocate. She also wrote a book about caregiving (“Helping Yourself Help Others”) and established a national center to help the people who do the “heavy lifting” in this crucial role in life. The title of her center is the “Rosalyn Carter Institute for Caregivers (the boldness in the last two word was at Carter’s insistence).”

At the preset time, the Institute estimates that 53 million Americans of all ages are serving as caregivers for family and friends. Included in this figure are individuals here in Castro Valley. They work hard and silently. The foundation of their dedication are beliefs in appreciation, gratitude, loyalty, and love. For those who read this article, Rosalyn Carter knew you well. Others, like me, have walked in your shoes. Be well and do well.

Rosalyn Carter’s other cause was that of mental illness. With a co-author, she wrote two books on this subject. She also

Obituaries

served as a national educator and advocate. Having once served as the senior Federal official in the western states for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, I learned first-hand how deep and difficult this issue is.

A former CEO of the California Hospital Association told me it was the number one health and medical issue for the state of California. One of my best friends is now deep in the quagmire of depression and has been unable to escape from its wrath (despite good access to mental health resources).

Rosalyn Carter’s dedication to public education about this issue and the desperate need for amelioration rang true years ago, and the bell is still ringing for millions of Californians and tens of millions of Americans.

Having placed these thoughts in perspective, I reflect upon the dedication that Rosalyn Carter gave to people like us here in Castro Valley, as well as nationally. She was more than the First Lady of our nation. She was a “First Lady” to millions of people in need. May her dedication and empathy continue to drive our spirits and hopes as we deal with the responsibilities that we all entertain with our lives.

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

Damon Keyser and Ethan Liu

Our Athletes of the Week are Damon Keyser and Ethan Liu from Castro Valley. The boys are students at Proctor Elementary and play on the 10UA Tri-Valley Blue Devils amateur hockey team. The Blue Devils finished the regular season in their division at the end of February 1st with a 12-2-2 record. In the NorCal Playoffs, the Blue Devils went 3-0 leading into the championship game, where they came from behind to beat the San Jose Jr. Sharks in overtime 4-3, becoming the 2024 10UA NorCal Youth Hockey Champions. Along with their team, Keyser and Liu will continue on to play in the California Amateur Hockey Association State Championships at the end of the month.

The Matt Wilhite Team is proud to sponsor Athletes of the Week Damon and Ethan

Outdoor: Equipment

continued from page 5

4. Removing or not using safety guards on the equipment. Never alter or disable safety protection measures. If needed, take equipment to a qualified service representative for repairs and inspection.

5. Using fuels not designed for equipment. Loading up your outdoor power equipment with gasoline with more than 10% ethanol in it can cause running problems and damage the fuel line. Always use E10 or less.

6. Using batteries or chargers that are not specified by manufacturer. While a host of batteries and chargers can be found for sale online, only use batteries and chargers specified by the equipment manufacturer.

7. Not storing fuel and batteries safely. Coffee cans, milk jugs and other non-approved containers should not be used to store fuel. Only store fuel in containers designed for it, and always use up fuel before it is 30 days old. Label fuel cans with the date of purchase and ethanol content. When battery packs are not in use, keep them away from other metal objects that can make a connection from one terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals together may cause burns or a fire.

8. Not cleaning or storing equipment well. Equipment will run more efficiently and last longer if it’s cleaned. Always remove dirt, oil or grass before using and storing your equipment. Store equipment in a dry place, avoiding damp or wet environments.

For info on safe fueling, go to www.opei.org/programs/ ethanolwarning/ For more safety info visit: opei.org

Local Wrestler Wins National Championship

Ajayzee Zaballos, a Castro Valley High School alumnus from the class of 2021 and Captain of the Menlo College Oaks women’s wrestling team in Atherton, CA, participated in the NAIA Women’s Wrestling National Championships on March 8 and 9 at the University of Jamestown in North Dakota. Ajayzee and 11 teammates competed against over 230 wrestlers from 37 schools for team and individual national titles. Ajayzee achieved 4th place individually, gaining her elite recognition as an “All American” and helped her team to become National Champions by scoring 172 team points, 34 points ahead of the second-place team. This victory marked Menlo’s first NAIA Women’s Wrestling Championship. Ajayzee finished her Junior year with a 29-6 record and was also recognized as an Academic All American as she pursues her degree in Sports Management.

Pizza: Gemignani to Soon Open New Restaurant in Castro Valley Marketplace

continued from front page Gemignani now lives in San Francisco, but soon will open a new pizza restaurant in the Castro Valley Marketplace that will be called Slice House by Tony Gemignani. He plans to bring his whole Harlem Globetrotters-style show with him.

That includes perhaps his greatest athletic achievement –once having rolled 20 ounces of dough over the back of his shoulders a total of 37 times in 30 seconds. The feat was accomplished with the Guiness people in attendance at the Mall of America in Minneapolis. Perhaps inspired by Gemignani, Shaquille O’Neal has gotten into the pizza-flipping business as the new spokesperson for rival Papa John’s. Gemignani gushes at Shaq’s performance on the popular TV commercial.

“I don’t know, Shaq is pretty talented,” Gemignani responded when asked if he thought the giant-sized NBA Hall of Famer’s successful flip might have taken several takes. “His hands are so big …”

So far, there’s been no talk of a Hall of Fame showdown on Castro Valley Blvd., but that doesn’t mean Gemignani will be doing all the pizza-tossing at his new place. Another of his world records is having led 263 people in simultaneous 12-inch pizza-tossing at his

Tony’s Pizza Napoletana in San Francisco.

Gemignani credits his background in sports as helping him become a pizza champion. “My dad was a soccer coach,” he recalled. “You practice, practice, practice and get as good as you can. It’s the same in the world of pizza.”

Gemignani could have a protege in the pipeline in 9-yearold son Giovanni. While dad might have to wrestle son away from more traditional sports like soccer, kung fu, basketball and flag football, Gemignani is proud to boast: “He loves (pizza). He comes up on stage with me (at conventions). He’s even on commercials with me.”

Community gatherings and youth involvement have played a big role in Gemignani’s dough-like rise to fame.

“Halloween was always special – tossing pizzas with the kids,” he remembered of his Pyzano’s Pizzeria days. “We would have contests. Seeing all the kids grow up was really nice.”

This is the last 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.”

Community gatherings and youth involvement have played a big role in Tony Gemignani’s rise to fame.