CASTRO VALLEY FORUM CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
MEETING
Building Community Through Classrooms
By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
This year marks Chrissy Emmons’ 23rd year teaching Middle School, the last 11 of which have been with Canyon Middle School.
This year, she is again teaching 8thgrade History and is in her third year of teaching Ethnic Studies as an elective. She also serves as an AVID Coordinator, a program that helps students with average grades learn to advocate for themselves as they move through high school and toward a college or career skill path. Last year, she celebrated the graduations of nine of her original AVID students and is looking forward to more.
In her career, Emmons says Middle School is a critical place where teachers, staff, and parents help shape student education and their appreciation for the place they live. To this end, she advocates for more involvement at all levels to ensure the students actively participate in their community.
The Forum sat down with Ms. Emmons
to understand more about the Middle School’s role in our community and the critical lessons for parents and school partners to support student success.
“I’m a middle school teacher, but I am also now a parent of a middle schooler myself,” Emmons told the Forum. “I think to understand middle schoolers, and just this stage in life is to realize that they are still kids. They are kids who still need to be able to know that people care about them. They’re not ready to be pushed out into the world and be completely independent. They need to know that adults care about them, whether they are family, friends, teachers, or staff members, and that we will go to bat for them.”
Emmons started her career in San Francisco and moved to Castro Valley to buy a home. She says the experience has been fulfilling because the students see representations of themselves through various posters and displays featuring influential individuals from diverse backgrounds, both past and present, in her classroom.
see EMMONS on page 4
Unanimous Vote To Reject County Housing Element
By Amy Sylvestri CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
The Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) voted 6-0 to whole-heartedly reject a county plan to expand the housing element of the Alameda County General Plan at its meeting last week, but state mandates might leave its hands tied.
Last Tuesday, the MAC heard Liz McElligott, the county’s assistant planning director, give the latest in a series of housing updates. State law requires each local jurisdiction to revise its Housing Element every eight years. The document is a road map for current and projected housing needs and site inventories.
As is true throughout the Bay Area, higher-density and more affordable housing is needed. Castro Valley’s population jumped from 60,625 in 2010 to 66,441 in the 2020 Census. County officials estimate 4,700 new housing units are needed in Castro Valley in the upcoming cycle through 2031, more than twice the 1,800 units in the previous 2015-2022 cycle. According to the county plan, a quarter of those spaces (1,250) would be required to be available for very low-income households. Even though the MAC voted 6-0 (with Chair Chuck Moore absent) to recommend the Board of Supervisors reject the plan as it is, that recommendasee MAC on page 7
WEST SIDE WALKWAYS
Somerset Avenue Sidewalk Project To Begin in 2025
By Amy Sylvestri CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
New sidewalks and bike lanes will be built beginning in Spring 2025 in order to make pedestrians and cyclists safer on the west side of town.
The Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) heard an update from the county about the Somerset Avenue Sidewalk Improvement Project.
The project extends from Stanton Avenue to Redwood Road. The Alameda County Public Works Agency will be installing new concrete sidewalks in order to improve pedestrian and bicycle access to Castro Valley High School, Castro Valley Elementary School, Our Lady of Grace School, and the Castro Valley Downtown area.
In addition to the new sidesee SOMERSET on page 11
CV Food Drive
Bringing hope to the table: Thanksgiving food drive returns
CHRISSY EMMONS
Castro Valley Weather
CVSan’s Roland Williams to Serve Regional Parks Board
Castro Valley Sanitary District’s (CVSan’s) CVSan’s General Manager (GM), Roland P. Williams, was recently appointed to serve on the East Bay Regional Parks District (EBRPD) Parks Advisory Committee (PAC). This will be his fourth consecutive two-year term.
The PAC is a 21-member community advisory group appointed by the EBRPD Board of Directors. Candidates are nominated by individual Board members and a variety of other public entities, such as the Mayors’ Conference, Board of Supervisors, and Special District Chapters of Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.
The role of the PAC is to provide community perspectives and advice to staff and the Board on the issues, projects, and policies of EBRPD.
Upon learning of his most recent appointment, GM Williams stated, “It has been my great pleasure to serve as a Park Advisory Committee
and enjoyment of open space in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.”
(PAC) member for the past 6 years. I am humbled to be nominated by the Alameda County Special Districts Association to serve another two years! This is not my first stint as a PAC member, as I served from 2003 to 2010.
Over the past 20 years of my involvement with East Bay Regional Park in this capacity, I have come to appreciate the dedicated individuals who are committed to the preservation
“Living in Castro Valley has allowed me to thoroughly explore and experience Lake Chabot Park, which I consider my home park. I have also enjoyed countless hours in numerous other parks over the years. It has truly been my pleasure to be part of the park district’s growth in size and diversity. Despite my busy schedule as the General Manager for Castro Valley Sanitary District, President of Alameda County Special Districts Association, and several other industry and service organizations, I have always looked forward to PAC meetings, where I am able to participate in something extraordinary. I have cherished my time serving on the PAC and look forward to serving for another two years.”
Congratulations to GM Williams on beginning your next two-year term as a member of the EBRPD PAC.
Bringing Hope to the Table: A Thanksgiving Food Drive
Redwood Chapel and Castro Valley Outreach have joined forces to orchestrate a Thanksgiving food drive, aimed at tackling food insecurity and ensuring families can enjoy a holiday meal. This collaborative effort embodies the spirit of compassion and unity, as they come together to support those in need during this festive season.
After a pause during the pandemic, the beloved Castro Valley Thanksgiving food drive is back, with Redwood Chapel Community Church hosting the event in partnership with
local nonprofit Castro Valley Outreach. Together, they’re bringing back a cherished tradition to support families facing temporary hardships and empowering them to select groceries that meet their needs.
Castro Valley Outreach, known for its work with the Castro Valley Unified School District to identify families in need, is excited to join forces with Redwood Chapel to bring this vital event back to the community. “We’re committed to supporting our neighbors in any way we can,” said Connie Ma, president and board
member for Castro Valley Outreach. “With the help of our volunteers and community donations, we aim to make a real difference.”
Pastor Jeff of Redwood Chapel expressed his gratitude for the partnership and the opportunity to serve: “Our congregation has a long-standing commitment to serving our neighbors. This food drive is a testament to the power of community coming together for a common purpose, and we hope to reach even more families this year.”
see DRIVE on page 4
CVSan’s GM, Roland P. Williams
Student Art Celebrates Sunol
Glen’s Upcoming Centennial
Many call Sunol Glen Unified School District the “Gem” of Sunol. To celebrate its upcoming centennial in 2025, students were asked to show their love of their school through a sketch where they included their perspective, design techniques, elements of art, and architectural aspects of the 109 years of education in the area.
“Sunol’s students are some of the most creative, compas-
sionate and well rounded”, Heather Cass Art Teacher. Sunol Glen is unique because it is a one-school, school-district that covers Transitional Kindergarten (TK) through 8th Grade classes. Despite its rural status and small size, the school’s curriculum includes the latest technology and offers Art, Music, Garden, Home Economics, and Band electives.
“Being at Sunol Glen School means being part of a closeknit community. Our staff is dedicated to meeting the needs of all students by fostering a caring and supportive environment for students to learn and grow. “ Shay Galletti Sunol Glen Principal and District Superintendent Read and share this article and see some of their artwork online at: mycvforum.com.
Special Education Meeting Via Zoom
The Community Advisory Committee for Special Education (CAC) will have a Zoom meeting tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 21, from 5 to 6pm. Contact the Castro Valley
Unified School District at 510537-3000 ext.1267 and ask for the Zoom invite for the Nov. 21 CAC meeting. All are welcome to see how you can help with Special
Education Districts in San Leandro, Castro Valley, San Lorenzo, and Hayward. CAC encourages community involvement in the development and review of the local plan.
COUNTY VOTES
A Slow Start to Count
By Mike McGuire CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Alameda County is down to 17,675 uncounted votes as of Friday afternoon, November 15, catching up rapidly after a slow start, leading to them being called America’s slowest vote-counting county.
As of Thursday afternoon, before Friday’s vote update, the county had led the state in the number of uncounted vote-bymail ballots, according to the California Secretary of State’s daily uncounted ballot report. However, the Friday update showed several large counties with more uncounted votes.
The uncounted votes can have a wide-reaching impact, such as the Alameda County Board of Supervisors District 5 race, in which Oakland City Councilmember Nikki Fortunato Bas was leading Emeryville City Councilmember John Bauters by 106 votes, up in the air.
In San Leandro’s District 2, city council incumbent Bryan Azevedo led challenger and former councilmember Ed Hernandez by only 473 votes.
In most other races and measures in the county, uncounted votes were unlikely to change results.
Alameda County had only counted 5,000 ballots out of over 680,000 cast in its first reported vote update after see COUNTS on page 5
Sheriff’s Reports
COMPILED BY MICHAEL SINGER • CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Robbery and Assault
Sunday, November 17: At 3:01 p.m., Sheriff’s Deputies arrested a 61-year-old Castro Valley man on suspicion of robbery and assault. The man was spotted in an altercation outside Castro Valley BART station. Deputies handcuffed the man and took him into custody.
Family Fight
Sunday, November 17: At 10:35 p.m., a 9-1-1 call about a loud and aggressive-sounding argument sent deputies to an apartment on Wisteria Street near the Boulevard. There, they arrested a 43-year-old CV woman on suspicion of assault on a family member. The woman was taken into custody.
Home Robbery
Saturday, November 16: At 9:31 a.m., deputies arrested a 33-year-old man with no permanent residence on suspicion of breaking into and robbing a home on San Franciscan Drive near Bellingham Drive in the Columbia neighborhood. The man was found on the property
when deputies arrived. He was additionally charged with possessing methamphetamines and resisting arrest. Deputies took the man to Santa Rita Jail.
Illegal Narcotics
Friday, November 15: At 1:11 p.m., deputies arrested a 50-year-old Castro Valley man on suspicion of possessing illegal narcotics. The man was visiting a relative at Eden Medical Center on Lake Chabot Road when staff noticed the man was trying to do drugs on hospital grounds. Deputies found the drugs in his pockets and took the man into custody.
Attempted Robbery
Thursday, November 14: At 2:31 p.m., a 66-year-old man with no permanent residence was arrested on Knox Street near Redwood Road following an attempted robbery. Deputies were called after a nearby business said the man tried to rob them. The suspect was found trying to hide in the bushes, but deputies handcuffed him and took him into custody.
Front row (left to right) Xavier Lueker-Boden, Adeline Rivers. Back row (left to right) Aiyana Colombage, Angel Herrero, Cassian Cox Solorzano, Angad Mann.
TOMORROW • Thursday, November 21
Chamber of Commerce Monthly Mixer
Castro Valley / Eden Area Chamber of Commerce will hold its monthly mixer tomorrow, Thursday Nov. 21 from 5:30 to 7:30pm at Don Jose’s located at 3430 Village Dr.
TOMORROW • Thursday, November 21
Community Advisory Committee for Special Education
The Community Advisory Committee for Special Education (CAC) will have a Zoom meeting tomorrow, Thursday, Nov. 21, from 5 to 6 pm. Contact the Castro Valley Unified School District at 510-537-3000 ext.1267 and ask for the Zoom invite for the Nov. 21 CAC meeting. All are welcome to see how you can help with Special Education Districts in San Leandro, Castro Valley, San Lorenzo, and Hayward. CAC encourages community involvement.
Drive: Drop Off Non-Perishable Food COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Saturday, November 23
Soroptimist of the East Bay Annual Holiday Boutique Soroptimist of the East Bay will hold its 19th Annual Holiday Boutique this Saturday, November 23 from 10am to 4pm at the Hill and Valley Women’s Club (1808 B Street, Hayward). There will be hand crafted gift items, holiday decor, jewelry, wardrobe accessories, and much, much more! Refreshments will be available. All proceeds benefit the goals of Soroptimist International – improving the lives of women and girls by providing educational scholarships and supporting local charities that serve our women and girls. For more info, contact Donna Whitehouse at: 510-999-2911 or at: rambosmom@comcast.net
Monday, November 25
Eden Garden Club Meeting
The next meeting of the Eden Garden Club will be Monday, November 25th at 9:30am at Faith Lutheran Church, 20080 Redwood Road in Castro Valley. At 10am the club will begin with Josh Rubietta of Down by the Bay Nursery. Josh will be speaking about native bulbs that will bloom in the Spring. Sandra Nevala-Lee and Stephanie Brady will also speak on EBMUD rebates and the “BEE Highway.” Meetings are free and guests are always welcome. For more information, visit: https://edengardenclub.com
Saturday, November 30
Sonos Handbell Concert
World-traveled Sonos is joining us in Castro Valley on Saturday, November 30 at 7pm. Faith Lutheran Church of Castro Valley (20080 Redwood Rd) welcomes world-traveled “Sonos” as they present “From Steeple to Steppe”. Join us at 7pm on November 30 for an evening of music. Sonos is bringing their lauded brand of handbell innovation and artistry to a venue near you. Come see what audiences the world over herald as the pinnacle of handbell performance as they perform music spanning from West to East. No tickets required; donations accepted. Visit: sonostemp.org/
Sunday, December 1
The Goodness of Sleep
Stop by the Castro Valley Library on Sunday, December 1 at 2 pm for a presentation from sleep health professional and RN Robyn Woidtke about the fundamentals of sleep. She’ll discuss: why we sleep and why it is important, the consequences of poor sleep and sleep deprivation, the major sleep disorders, what we need to sleep well, and more. Robyn Woidtke, MSN-Ed, RN, RPSGT, CCSH, FAAST, began working in the emerging field of sleep medicine in 1985. She worked a variety of roles within the sleep clinic, including conducting overnight sleep studies. She has authored numerous publications, book chapters, and research-focused abstracts and lectures on a variety of sleep-related topics. Registration is required. For info and to register, visit www.aclibrary.org or call 510-667-7900.
continued from page 2
Community members can drop off non-perishable food items at participating schools, including Canyon Middle School, Creekside Middle School, and Castro Valley High School.
Requested items include soup and broth, canned chicken, tuna, green beans, peas, corn, tomatoes, yams, fruit, canned beans, dried beans, rice, pasta, stuffing, muffin mix, mashed potatoes, fried onions, and cereal. No
expired items will be accepted. All collected items will be distributed to families in need on November 26. Families interested in participating can register online, with the requirement that they have a student currently attending a school in the district. Volunteers are invited to serve on November 25 from 10am to 2pm to sort and organize donations and/or on November 26 from 10am to 2pm to help families select and carry food items.
For more info on how to donate, register, or volunteer, email castrovalleyoutreach@ gmail.com or you can visit their website https://www. castrovalleyoutreach.org/.
Castro Valley Outreach would accept all generous donations to continue their holiday efforts and would like to send a special thank you to the following individuals for their donations: Nate Miley, Supervisor of District 4 in Alameda County, Carol Bigelow, Castro Valley Rotary, Fremont Bank.
Betty Loeffler Art Reception
By Terry Liebowitz SPECIAL TO THE FORUM
The public is invited to a very special Art Reception and sale for the extensive works of Castro Valley’s Betty Loeffler, Sunday, December 1, from 3:00- 5:00 pm at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts (19501 Redwood Road). Betty’s work which includes handmade paper, prints, and monotypes spans almost 100 years.
Betty and her husband, Dr. Robert Loeffler, moved to Castro Valley in 1960. They raised their five daughters in Castro Valley and Bob opened his plastic surgery practice there. Both Loefflers were actively involved in the Bay Area art community, garnering
Emmons: Learning
continued from front page
“On my desks, I highlight influential Americans from different communities to help students see themselves in what we are learning,” Emmons says. “I also share pictures of my family and my interests to humanize our space and emphasize that we are all in this together.”
As the year progresses and students produce work, she replaces posters with student creations to empower them and instill pride in seeing their work displayed for others to appreciate. She also sets up students in small groups, encouraging collaboration and support.
“This setup helps prevent feelings of isolation and promotes a supportive learning environment,” she adds.
While Middle School teachers and staff support student success, Emmons advocates for community participation in middle school, including volunteering in the classroom, being active in a school fundraiser, or attending a school sporting event.
“Even if you don’t have a kid there, show up,” Emmons says.
awards along the way. Betty was influenced and studied under Lundy Seaquist and took workshops from Mel Ramos and Wayne Thiebaud. Betty died in 2022.
Daughter Pam Holloway shares, “This is an opportunity to have an original piece of art at a very reasonable price. Most important to the family is that Mom’s work be out in the world bringing people joy.” There are framed and unframed offerings. Refreshments will be served. Artist and curator Susan Sarti will play piano and photographer Bruce Cassaday will accompany on trumpet. Any questions, please call 808-754-0393.
For example, teachers appreciate adults coming in to view career days and talking to kids about their experiences of colleges or various professions, she said, which is one way the community could support students and help them explore what’s out there.
“It is crucial to build relational capacity with our students,” Emmons says. “Students of all ages and levels need to feel welcomed and safe every day when they walk through our doors. As educators, we have the power and responsibility to create these spaces and show up for them. We might not know the weight on their shoulders, and they might not see ours, but by finding ways to learn about and care for each other, we can create a special and meaningful learning environment for everyone.”
Spiritual, but not religious?
Watch 11:11am Live-stream at unitysanleandro.org or on Facebook Live
Unity Church of San Leandro 20121 Santa Maria Ave, Castro Valley, CA 94546 . SUNDAY 11:11 A.M.
• We emphasize spirituality more than religion.
• We believe there are many paths to God.
• We show you how to transform your life through practical spiritual principles
• Everyone is welcome. We are now livestreaming and meeting in person at
Count: ‘The Public Was Not Pleased’
continued from page 3 the election. Registrar of Voters Tim Dupuis told the county board of supervisors at their November 12 meeting that “the public was not pleased.”
Outgoing District 5 Supervisor Keith Carson said in a November 8 press release, “Many have contacted my office to express their dismay/ anger regarding the small number of votes that have been counted to date, while all of our surrounding counties are posting a greater number of results. I share your dismay.”
Dupuis said that Alameda County had been in line with other large California counties, which also had many uncounted ballots. He added that his office then went on to count 95,000 more votes by that Friday, then 150,000 more over the Veterans Day weekend.
District 2 Supervisor Elisa Marquez asked why the vote count had been so slow. Dupuis responded, “That is because of a shift we made four years ago to being an all-vote-by-mail state.”
“We like that because it promotes voter participation and increased turnout. It is convenient,” Dupuis said. “But what we have seen in the last four years is that most voters tend to drop their ballots off in the last few days before the election, and our office gets inundated by vote-by-mail votes.”
In fact, he said, ballots are still arriving, having been postmarked on Election Day—November 5—or earlier, as legally required for them to count.
He said Alameda County’s election workload also increased because two cities allow underage voting for school district choices, four cities use ranked-choice voting, and there were two different recalls
on the ballot this time, one for District Attorney Pamela Price and the other for Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao.
Dupuis also said that vote-by-mail ballots require extra work at the Registrar’s office compared to votes cast on machines. They arrive unstructured, in bags or on trolleys, and must be prepared for machine processing.
Ballots are sorted and put in trays in the same orientation before signatures are verified. Then, their envelopes are opened, and they are sorted again and set up for high-speed scanning, he said.
If any votes are not correctly marked or have extraneous marks, the whole batch has to be removed and examined by two-person teams, and then the good ballots are re-scanned and tallied.
“You’d be amazed what people put on their ballots,” the Registrar of Voters said.
Legado Avanzado Live
Wednesday, November 20: Tonight is The Lab, a monthly meetup for songwriters and poets to workshop and collaborate through creative exercises and performances in a friendly setting. Tonight’s special guest will be local Norteño band Legado Avanzado! The show starts at 7:30pm. Please email: info@smalltownsociety.com for more information and location.
By Carl Medford, CRS Special to the Forum
Commission Levels Remain Relatively Unchanged
By Carl Medford, CRS Special to
s the class action lawsuit against the National Association of Realtors kicked in on 08/17/2024, there was considerable confusion as to what would become of commissions paid to Realtors representing buyers. It is important to note that real estate commissions have always been negotiable.
Interestingly, a post by Dave Gallagher of Real Estate News, highlighting a recent study of more than 17,000 transactions nationwide after the
August 17th deadline, reveals only minor shifts in percentages. Historically, the general practice was for sellers to pay a commission to the listing broker from which a portion would be paid to the buyer’s broker. The settlement decoupled commissions, meaning that sellers are now responsible only for their listing agent’s commission and buyers are now expected to compensate their own representation. Gallagher states, “Soon after the National Association of Realtors announced its landmark $418 million settlement,
headlines cropped up predicting that real estate commissions could soon be “slashed,” “gone” or “eliminated.”
But so far, at least, those predictions have not been borne out. There’s been little movement in commission rates since industry rule changes took effect — though it may be too early to know if that will remain true over the long term.
A study by AccountTECH found that commission percentages paid to listing agents actually edged up slightly, and those paid to buyer agents declined marginally, in the 60 days following the Aug. 17 policy change deadline.”
It is safe to say that the initial reporting by major media outlets surrounding the NAR lawsuit was suspect at best, and in many cases, sensationalist and blatantly misguided. Claims that the lawsuit would lower housing costs were also poorly informed.
One of the overarching concerns stemming from the settlement was the idea that buyers, already stretched to the limit and
financially unable to pay their agents fee, would not be able to complete purchases. As it happens, buyers can still ask the seller for a concession from which they can pay their agent.
Based on this report and our own experience here in the Bay Area, most sellers have so far been willing to provide a concession from which the buyer’s agent can be paid. It also needs to be noted, however, that the market has been seasonally slow, and it is likely that without the concessions, it would be slower still. It will be interesting to see how things develop as we enter 2025.
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.
Free Park Day After Holiday
Turn Black Friday Green
– Free Park Day on Friday, November 29. Green Friday –the day after Thanksgiving – is a great time to visit Regional Parks for free and spend quality time with family and friends. All entrance and activity fees are waived on Green Friday, including parking, dogs, horses, boat launching, and fishing, as well as entrance to Ardenwood Historic Farm. Fee waiver does not include state fees for fishing licenses and watercraft inspections, or concessionaires, such as the Tilden Merry-Go-Round or Redwood Valley Railway steam train. For more info on Green Friday programs, visit: www.ebparks.
MAC: Critical of the Plan’s Practicality as at Previous Meetings
continued from front page tion doesn’t dictate the Board’s actions.
As at previous meetings, the MAC was critical of the plan’s practicality. Is the appropriate infrastructure in place, such as traffic plans, parking, or classroom space for new residents?
Another MAC concern is that potential developers have not submitted solid proposals to build new homes. McElligott said builders are interested in the area, but there are no definite plans for a specific development.
Several residents took to the public speaking portion of the evening to decry the housing element, particularly the state’s interference with Castro Valley.
“I’m very angry about this,” said speaker Cathy Langley. “Build houses where houses make sense. The state shouldn’t have eminent domain. This is a developers’ dream to take over our land.”
Speaker (and former MAC member) Matt Turner acknowledged the possibility for developers to “buy out” the ostensibly required low-income element and find a way to offer only higher-priced housing, adding that he felt the entire idea was essentially futile.
“The real disaster is that this wouldn’t even make a dent in housing availability,” said Turner. He posited that international investors would buy up any stock they can, pricing out the average person.
A copy of the full housing element plan is available at www.acgov.org/cda/planning/ housing-element/housing-element. The matter will be before the Board of Supervisors at an upcoming date.
The MAC also heard an update on the Castro Valley Central Business District Specific Plan, a massive ongo-
ing project that maps out the various uses for an area that covers approximately 290 acres and 765 parcels, including the Central Business District on Castro Valley Boulevard, the Medical Center area on Lake Chabot Road, the BART Transit Village, and the Rite Aid parcel to the east.
The project was divided into two phases. Phase one, completed in late 2021, involved a Community-Wide Zoning and Map Update. Phase two, which includes listening to and
refining community recommendations, is scheduled for late 2025.
Kathryn Slama, Director of Lisa Wise Consulting, reviewed current feedback, including reducing the Boulevard to two-lane traffic, increasing pedestrian and bike traffic, and supporting mixed-use buildings that put housing on top of businesses.
During this process, the MAC has continually said that the public must balance a wish list of amenities with the
realities of space constraints, funding, the economic future, and sustainability.
For more information on the plan, visit www.cvgpimplementation.com
Also, at last week’s meeting, the MAC delayed discussion about the proposed Splash Brothers Car Wash at the current lumberyard site at 2495 Castro Valley Boulevard to a future meeting.
Read, share and like this article at: mycvforum.com
Mortgage Rates Level Off
Mortgage rates continued to inch up this week, reaching 6.79 percent. It is clear purchase demand is very sensitive to mortgage rates in the current market environment. As soon as rates began to rise in early October, purchase applications fell and over the last month have declined 10 percent.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
You can run a classified ad for a little as $35 a week. Your ad runs in both of our newspapers, the Castro Valley Forum on Wednesday and the San Leandro Times on Thursday. You can also save by placing your ad on our website at castrovalleyforum.com or sanleandrotimes.com. We’ll call you for your credit or debit card info for payment. To place an ad by phone call Patrick Vadnais at 510-614-1560, Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Thanks to our many Readers who SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!
CONCRETE SERVICE
S.L. CONCRETE SERVICE Driveways, Sidewalks, Stamped Concrete, Retaining Walls, Tree and Drain Service. Lic.#982202. 510856-8937.
CONTRACTOR SERVICE
NOTICETO READERS
California law requires that contractors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. State Law also requires that contractors include their license number on all advertising. Advertisers appearing on this page without a license number indicate that the contractor is not licensed. You can check the status of your licensed contractor at www.cslb.ca.gov or (800) 321-2752. Unlicensed contractors taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board.
FENCES/DECKS
Fence wobbly? Call Randy's Fence Reinforcement and save thousands! 510-706-6189.
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.
GARAGE SALES
Mistletoe Madness a Christmas Fair November 30, 2024 from 10am-4pm. 15301 WicksBlvd., San Leandro. An amazing craft fair!
GARDENING
*BEAUTYGARDEN LANDSCAPING Design - Construction - Maintenance. Cleanups, New Lawn, Artificial Grass, Irrigation, Patios, Pathways, Brick, Stone, Concrete Fence/ Decks. Free Estimates! Lic.#925130. 510-691-8852. www.beautygardenlandscaping.com
GARDENING
JAIME’S GARDENING Maintenance, Trimming, Cleanups, Hauling, Sprinkler Repair/ Timers. FREE Estimates. Insured. 510-299-9583
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GIVEAWAYS
FREE 30 gal nice fish tank with all accessories including walnut cabinet stand, also free Apt size washing machine. Both in very good condition. Call 510-909-4409.
IF YOUR GARAGE SALE IS RAINED OUT, WE'LL RUN YOUR AD AGAIN FOR NO EXTRA CHARGE. SLTimes
HANDYMAN SERVICE
HANDYMAN 35 Years. Senior Discounts. Native. All Phases. In and Outside Work. Tom 510-427-0455.
HAULING SERVICE
HAULING: Small and Big Jobs. Furniture, Concrete, Wood, Trash, Metal, Demolition. Also house inside/ outside cleanups. 510-715-1578.
HELP WANTED
DSPStaff wanted to work with D.D. Adults in a Care Home in S.L., Have exp. working with disabled adults & their needs. Will train. AM, PM and W/E shifts available. Salary + Benefits Call 510.638.8070 or email: mr2125@att.net.ry
HOPE YOU FIND just the job you are looking for!
MISC. FOR SALE
3 adult 3 wheel study bikes $100 each. Child’s 3-wheel bike good condition (needs new tires) $50. Phone 510-388-8105/ text/ emailangelaisme2015@yahoo.com Duncan Phyfe dining table and 6 chairs +accessories. Excellent condition. $1,000. 510-581-6585. Motorcycle helmet(size medium) $50. Call 510-514-3168.
50 Christmas CD’s in great condition $50. Call 510-654-1951.
Rent it FAST with a TIMES WANT AD ... 614-1558
MUSICAL SERVICES LESSONS
PIANO LESSONS Low rates, kids 5+, recitals, certificates, educational. 510-352-0546.
Are you interested in buying or selling a home or property? Would you like the help of a Professional Agent? For assistance call ...
HOPE YOU FIND just the job you are looking for!
RENTALS
LANDLORDS – Advertise your units! Avacancy day is money lost forever ... R. Bowman
To Place a Garage Sale Ad 614-1558
To Place a Garage Sale Ad call 614-1558
IF YOUR GARAGE SALE IS RAINED OUT, WE'LL RUN YOUR AD AGAIN FOR NO EXTRA CHARGE. SLTimes
RENTALS/RV SPACES
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Seniors
Q&A: As POA for Dad, Can I Make Gifts on His Behalf?
Q: My father signed a Power Of Attorney some years ago, naming me as his agent. The POA is effective upon Dad’s incapacity, which I believe has arrived . Some family members could use some financial help. Would it be legal for me to make gifts to them from his assets using the POA? Can I also include myself as a gift recipient?
By Gene L. Osofsky, Esq. SPECIAL TO THE FORUM
A. Great questions, and I believe many readers would be interested in the answers. Here is the approach that I recommend in order to come up with the answers:
First, to prove that the “triggering event” has occurred to make the POA effective, evidence of your Dad’s incapacity, such as the written opinion of one or two physicians (as the POA may require), must be secured in writing and either attached to the POA and/or presented to any third party, such as a bank, who may be asked to rely upon it when implementing your instructions;
Second, the power to use your Dad’s assets to make gifts must be expressly stated in the Power Of Attorney (“POA”); general powers, no matter how seemingly broad and comprehensive, are not sufficient.
Third, in answer to you further question as to whether you can make gifts to yourself, be advised that the law
requires still another recital in the POA, i.e. the recital that you may “self- deal” in exercising the gifting powers and/or an otherwise clear recital that you may do so. This is because you would otherwise have a fiduciary duty to use your dad’s assets only for his benefit, but not for your own personal benefit. Thus, if the POA did not have those recitals and you opted to gift to yourself, you would arguably be breaching that fiduciary duty. However, if there is an express recital in the POA that permits you, as his agent, to include yourself as a gift recipient, then you may rely upon that recital to include yourself as a gift recipient, provided that any other conditions in the POA are satisfied, such as those mentioned below. By the way, many POA’s refer to the designated agent as the “Attorney-In-Fact” (“AIF”), which is the correct legal terminology.
There is another caution to observe. Many POA’s contain a further qualification in order to make gifts, such as that the amount of any gift may not exceed the amount of the Annual Gift Tax Exclusion under federal tax law, or may only be made so long as any such gift does not generate any tax consequence. So, be mindful of these additional requirements
ing. Further, before you make gifts of your father’s assets, be especially sure that he retains sufficient resources to pay for his own expenses, including the expense of long-term care as he ages and becomes more dependent upon others for assistance with daily activities.
Note, also, that there are other acts which are also prohibited, unless the POA expressly authorizes them. They include the following and are set forth in California Probate Code Section 4264:
1) The power to create, modify, revoke, or terminate a trust; 2) The power to designate or change the designation of beneficiaries to receive any property upon your Dad’s death; 3) The power to make a loan to yourself, as his Attorney-In-Fact.
Note, further, that as his Attorney-Fact you may not, under any circumstances, make, amend or revoke your father’s Will. Overall, the best plan is to seek the guidance of an attorney familiar with these issues before undertaking significant action under your father’s POA.
Gene L. Osofsky is an elder law and estate planning attorney who has been helping East Bay families for over 25 years with Trusts, Wills, Powers of Attorney, Probate, Medi-Cal Planning, and related matters. To contact his office, send an email to Gene@LawyerForSeniors.com or call (510)
Give Thanks: Fulfilling Ways Seniors Celebrate
Thanksgiving is a time to come together, celebrate, and express gratitude for the blessings in our lives. For seniors, this cherished holiday offers a wonderful opportunity to engage with family and friends, share delicious meals, and reflect on memories that fill our hearts with joy. If you’re a senior or a loved one of one, here are some tips and ideas on how to celebrate Thanksgiving in a fulfilling and joyful way.
A Meaningful Gathering Thanksgiving is all about togetherness, so planning a gathering can set the stage for a
er you choose to host at your home or prefer to gather at a family member’s house, ensure that the venue is accessible and comfortable for everyone involved. If mobility may be an issue, make arrangements that allow easy access and seating. Think about including a diverse guest list, from younger family members to friends and neighbors, which can enhance the festive atmosphere and create multigenerational bonding. If you feel up to it, consider making the gathering a potluck-style meal where everyone brings a dish. This not only reduces the workload on one
person but also allows for a delightful variety of flavors that can spark conversation and camaraderie. Don’t hesitate to share your favorite recipes— many guests will enjoy a walk down culinary memory lane! Embrace Technology For seniors who may not be able to attend gatherings in person due to health concerns or distance, technology can bridge the gap. Platforms like Zoom or FaceTime have become increasingly user-friendly and can help seniors connect with family members, even if they’re miles apart. Organize see THANKS on back page
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Letters must include the writer’s name, address, 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 those of the newspaper or its advertisers. Submit letter online: mycvforum.com/letters-submission-form
I Have an Honest Question About Stacy Spink’s Letter to the Editor Last Week
Dear Editor,
This is an honest question about an assertion in Stacy Spink’s letter (November 13, 2024) that leaves me baffled. In what way are Kamala Harris’ credentials based on DEI? Did I miss something? She is a woman of mixed ethnicity with immigrant parents. So? She is accomplished. She has “done her thing” and completed law school and served as attorney general of California and U.S. Senator ably. But where is it written that this is due to DEI? Is Mr. Spinks suggesting that her admittance to UC Law San Francisco (formerly Hastings) was all DEI? So, too, her place at Howard University? It wasn’t even around then. I am not personally fond of DEI that aims to fill institutions with a certain number of people that mirrors the general population. It’s too Soviet for my taste, and we know what happened there. But that’s almost an aside. Mr. Spink’s letter smacks of bigotry. I don’t think anybody of her background would be
“purely” qualified in his eyes because of the baggage HE has thrown on her. He carries it, not her. His perception of her is exactly why affirmative action, DEI’s forerunner, arose. She couldn’t have done it on her own, never. She is naturally inferior, just a bit. People must be seeing her through the lens of DEI to find her super capable.
Trump’s qualifications are “based (at least in part) on” something like DEI, though. Call it Spoiled Rich Boy Syndrome. SRBS. Doesn’t that describe many mediocre, non-DEI men we see in positions of power everywhere? Truly.
Biden probably wasn’t removed from office for the same reason that Reagan wasn’t removed when clearly exhibiting symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Respect. Competent people around him. By the looks of things, we won’t have that luxury when Trump goes completely bonkers.
–Stephen Gutierrez, Castro Valley
Somerset: Construction Set to Begin This Spring
and Last About 18 Months
continued from front page walks installed where there are none current, the project will include wider sidewalks where they do exist, shared Class 3 bike lanes, ADA curb ramps at all intersections, high-visibility crosswalks, sidewalk bulb outs at intersections, flashing beacons, and over 100 new street trees.
A typical section of street in the improvement area would be a seven-foot-wide sidewalk, seven-foot-wide parking lane, 11-foot shared auto/ bike lane, another 11-foot shared lane in the opposite direction, followed by a seven-foot parking lane in that direction, and another seven-foot sidewalk.
Construction is set to begin this spring and last about 18 months Construction will typically be Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and two-way traffic is expected to be maintained throughout the process though some detours may pop up.
Speaker Jim Robson said a focus should be on dedicated bike lanes instead of “shar-
rows” where bikes share space on the road with cars and that cyclists are often forced to use sidewalks, which is bad for everyone.
“They need to have a place to ride and they shouldn’t be on sidewalks,” said Robson.
A mother whose child was hit by a car on Somerset on their way to Castro Valley High last month said something needs to be done about safety in the area.
“He was very lucky, but he should have to depend on luck,” she said
For more information about the project and to see updates, visit www.acpwa.org/projects/2022/Somerset_Ave.page.
At Monday’s meeting, the MAC also approved their schedule of upcoming meetings for 2025.
Generally speaking, Land Use meetings are held on the second and fourth Mondays of each month and General Purpose meetings are held on the third Monday of the month beginning at 6:00 p.m., in the Castro Valley Library, Chabot
Six Strategies to Promote Self Care During Holiday Season
By Jagmeet Kaur Sangha SPECIAL TO THE FORUM
With the holiday season fast approaching, the days seem packed with more to do than ever. Now is the time to create a strong foundation to support yourself as the festivities ramp up and, for many, start to feel overwhelming. For some, crowded gatherings, hectic schedules, and endless to-do lists can turn the season from joyful to challenging. By using the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), you can navigate the holiday rush with a focus on balance and well-being. ACT provides six core processes to help you lead a more values-driven life. Let’s apply these to the holiday season:
1. Acceptance
Acceptance means allowing thoughts and emotions to come and go without struggling against them, making space for them instead of pushing them away. During the holidays, you may experience all sorts of emotions. Allow yourself time to feel them. Like the seasons, it all comes and goes on its own, and your job is to remain flexible without letting your emotions get in the driver’s seat.
2. Values
Room, 3600 Norbridge Avenue.
The exceptions in 2025 will be the General Purpose meetings in January and February which will be held on Thursday January 23 and Thursday February 20 and the second Land Use meeting in May which will be held on Tuesday, May 27- all due to holidays.
The MAC asked county staff why Thursdays were the replacement date instead of the common replacement day of Tuesday when Monday is a holiday and staff said they’d look into it- so those dates may shift.
It was also suggested that the October 13 meeting be moved or removed because, while not a county holiday, it is Indigenous Peoples’ Day, so that change may also be made in the future.
Anyone with questions regarding the Land Use meetings may call Rodrigo Orduña at the County Planning Department at 510-670-5400 and for questions regarding the General Purpose meetings, call Tona Henninger at 510-670-5717.
Identify what truly matters to you and use these values as a compass to guide your actions. Before the holidays
begin, write down what is important to you. Do you value connection, health, gatherings, routine, and
solitude? By understanding what’s truly important, you can make decisions that reflect those values rather than being pulled in many directions. This can mean spending more time with loved ones or setting aside quiet time for yourself without feeling guilty.
3. Uncouple from Your Thoughts
Learn how to separate yourself from unhelpful thoughts by observing your thoughts without getting caught up in them. For example, if you think, “I need to make everyone happy,” try saying, “I’m having the thought that I need to make everyone happy.” This helps you see the thought from a distance, making it less overwhelming and giving you more freedom to choose how to act.
4. Present-Moment Awareness
This involves staying connected to the here and now, bringing mindful attention to your current experiences rather than drifting to the past or future. Avoid multitasking and instead be fully present in your current activity with all your senses. This can counter the holiday rush and help you appreciate small joys, even if the season feels chaotic.
5. Commit to Action: Honor Your Values
Taking steps that align with your values helps to create meaningful experiences. Self-compassion is key, especially during hectic times when there’s often pressure to overdo. Having your values written down can help you decide what to commit to or where to draw boundaries if something does not align with you.
For instance, If you value generosity, you may find ways to give to others meaningfully rather than feeling obligated or stressed out about giving gifts. If your value is gratitude, you can build in time throughout your day or week to reflect on things you appreciate and express that to others. Honoring your values creates space for self-care, allowing the holiday season to feel more balanced and aligned with what matters most to you.
6. Self-as-Context
Recognize that you are more than your thoughts, emotions, or life experiences. This fosters a perspective from which you can observe these inner events with greater objectivity. This mindset allows you to engage in the holiday season with a sense of inner stability and acceptance, even when emotions are running high or stressful situations arise. Remember, you are the observer of your holiday experience, not defined by any single moment or emotion.
see SANGHA on back page
CV Soccer Club Champions
Congratulations to the Castro Valley Soccer United 2017 Boys Green Team. On November 10, the team won the 2024 NorCal Premier State Cup U9 Copper 5 Championship in South Davis, Calif., over the South San Jose Soccer League 17B Blue Team by a score of 7-1.
Castro Valley played a series of six games to take the title. The first two matches were
played on October 19 with mixed results as the CV Green Team defeated Piedmont SC Highlanders 2016B Grey 6-5 but lost the second match to Ballistic United BUSC 2016 Select Gold 3-5. The next two matches on October 20 were also split, with Castro Valley losing 2-6 to Albion SC Central Valley B16 Premier in the opener. However, in the Quarter Finals round, the
Green Team racked up an impressive 14-0 shutout of North Coast Futbol Club North Coast FC 17B Blue. When it came to the Semi-Final round, Castro Valley showed its resiliency against the Alameda Soccer Club Islanders 16B White, defeating them 6-2. South San Jose could not get past Castro Valley’s defense in the Finals, and the Green Team sent them packing.
Sangha: Fulfilling Holiday Experience
continued from previous page What might feel challenging to one person could be exciting for another. Embracing this perspective during the holiday season can help us balance our own needs while honoring those of others. By applying ACT principles, you can
cultivate greater meaning, flexibility, and self-compassion, creating a holiday experience that feels more fulfilling. As you embrace these practices, those around you will likely feel inspired to do the same.
Jagmeet Kaur Sangha is a board-certified Behavior Ana-
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Dominic Bolender
Our Athlete of the Week is Dominic Bolender. Last weekend, this Castro Valley High School Junior played for the East All-Star Team in the Continental Tire ECNL National Selection Games in Phoenix, Arizona. The three-day event saw 230 teams from the U15-U18/19 age groups in action. The matches feature top soccer players from teams that play in Elite Clubs National League (ECNL) events. Players for the National Selection were chosen through a combination of scouting and recommendations based on performances over the past several months. Bolender was picked to represent the Association Football Club (AFC) to play for the East Team on November 15. He then played with his AFC teammates the rest of the weekend. AFC is a new club formed via a partnership between Castro Valley Soccer Club, Montclair Soccer Club, and Piedmont Soccer Club. The combined club participates in the ECNL program. Bolender is also a center defensive midfielder and one of the team captains on the Castro Valley High School Boys’ Varsity Soccer Team. “I’m very proud of this young man,” said Dominic’s coach Dave Barrett. “I have had the pleasure of watching him grow within the game since he started.”
lyst 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 info, visit: www.behaviorpivot.com
Thanks: Gratitude Activities for Seniors
continued from page 10 a virtual Thanksgiving dinner where those unable to attend can join in for conversations, share stories, and even eat together over a video call.
Additionally, you might consider creating a shared digital scrapbook or album where family members can add photos and notes, capturing the moments of gratitude and love, making every holiday feel special regardless of distance.
Gratitude Activities
Thanksgiving is also about reflecting on the things we are
grateful for. Consider incorporating a gratitude activity into your celebration. This could involve a simple roundtable where everyone shares something they are thankful for, or perhaps creating a gratitude jar where guests can write down their thoughts on slips of paper.
For those who enjoy crafts, making Thanksgiving-themed decorations or cards can also serve as a creative outlet. Seniors can lead a small workshop or simply enjoy the time spent with younger family members.
Celebrating Thanksgiving as a senior can be a heartwarming experience filled with love, laughter, and gratitude. By focusing on connection, comfort, and shared stories, seniors can not only enjoy the holiday but also create lasting memories with the ones they cherish the most. So, whether you’re hosting a feast, sharing a meal virtually, or exchanging stories of gratitude, remember that this season is about embracing joy and togetherness—an opportunity to cherish the moments that truly matter.
The Matt Wilhite Team is proud to sponsor Athlete of the Week Dominic Bolender
Pictured from left to right: (back row) Head Coach Hunter LeBlanc, Coach Stephan Barone, and Coach Bolaji Olutade. (middle row) Alexander Hunt, Sam Madruga, Kamil Barry, Mason Wilhite, Pearce Fitzgerald, and Mufewa Olutade. (front row) Joseph Barone, Marcelo Jimenez, Leon Leyva, and Luka Tobar.