PROFILES OF LOCAL PROFESSIONALS
Women in Business
5
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM A COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER SERVING CASTRO VALLEY SINCE 1989
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2023
YEAR 35
NO. 42
MAC MEETING
INSIDE YOUR
FORUM
EBMUD On Lead In Pipes
‘Sky Lake’
By Amy Sylvestri
CV novelist publishes new murder mystery set by Lake Tahoe
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Page 2
Cruise the Bay
CV Musicians to perform this Sunday on USS Potomac
Page 4
PHOTO COURTESY OF SMCDPHOTO/NEWS24-680.COM
SUPPORT FOR THOSE DISPLACED BY WAR: About 800 people walked through the streets of Walnut Creek on October 10 to condemn the attacks in Israel and ask for the safe return of more than 120 hostages, including a handful of Americans, captured by Hamas.
Local Groups Call for End To Israel-Hamas Conflict By Michael Singer
Care Planning
How to make sure your loved one’s wishes are honored
Page 10
INDEX Calendar ................ 4 Classified Ads ......... 8 Crosswords ............. 9 Homes ..................... 6 Obituaries ............. 11 Opinions ............... 11 Our Town ................. 3 Seniors ................... 10 Sports .................. 12 Weather .................. 2 WWW.MYCVFORUM.COM
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
The surprise attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7 has drawn condemnation by local groups for the violence and calls for an end to the fighting as well as support for those displaced by war.
While the situation continues to develop, more than 400,000 people have already fled their homes in the Gaza Strip, according to Reuters news service. This was even before Israel ordered more than a million Palestinians to evacuate last week in preparation for troops to fight. United Nations officials say humanitarian organsee CONFLICT on page 3
The East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) told the Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) about an ongoing project to identify any traces of lead lingering in old pipes in their system at the MAC’s Monday night meeting. EBMUD is specifically talking about service lines, the smaller pipes carrying water from the large pipe under the street to the individual home or business. The ownership of the pipe transfers from the customer to EBMUD at the water meter box- the pipes in the street belong to EBMUD, and the pipes to go into the home belong to the homeowner. In the 1940s, EBMUD used lead series lines- all of which have been removed- half were gone by 1970 and more than 97 percent by the year 2000. But nearly 10,000 customers were connected to the lines at one point, including around 100 in Castro Valley and around 1,000 in San Lorenzo. But when the lead pipes were removed, they were in some cases replaced with galvanized lines (Galvanized Requiring Replacement or GRR), and under new federal see MAC on page 11
County DA Earmarks $4M to Fight Retail Theft By Michael Singer
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
So-called smash-and-grab theft at retailers across the Bay Area and resulting store closures have put pressure on Alameda County law officials to step up. Last Thursday, Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price announced the
creation of an Organized Retail of coordinated stash-and-grab Theft Vertical Prosecution incidents. Those grants were Team and a total of $4 million awarded to the Fremont and to help. Newark Police Departments. In September, the DA’s On Thursday, Price commitoffice announced it received a ted an additional $2 million for $2 million grant from Califor- the project with funds from her nia Governor Gavin Newsom’s Consumer Justice Bureau to Organized Retail Crime Task help prevent retail theft in the rest of the county. The funding Force (ORCTF) program to is poised to also aid local law fund a new prosecution unit enforcement in cracking down to address the growing issue
on other types of property and data specialists who are crime related to organized expected to work together to retail theft — including vehicle investigate and prosecute orand catalytic converter theft. ganized retail theft cases from start to finish. “Essentially, we want to choke off the demand that is “Our goal is to dismantle, driving a lot of what we see in disrupt, and deter this type of our communities,” Price said at criminality from occurring a media event. and, where appropriate, to diThe team will consist of two vert those who are engaging in Deputy District Attorneys, two this type of criminality,” said see DA on back page Inspectors, and multiple crime
2 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
Castro Valley Weather October 18 - October 22, 2023
Wednesday
Sunny High 87° Low 58°
Thursday
Sunny High 93° Low 59°
Almanac
Friday
Sunny High 78° Low 58°
Past Week’s Rain: 00.00 Season To Date: 00.00 Normal To Date: 00.00 Season Average: 00.00
Saturday
Sunday
Partly Cloudy High 69° Low 58°
Partly Cloudy High 68° Low 54°
Oct 21
Nov 5
Moon Phases Oct 28
Nov 12
Sun sets at 6:27 p.m. today, rises at 7:20 a.m. Thursday.
mycvforum.com
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8 NEW CHAMPIONSHIP PICKLEBALL COURTS
CV Novelist Publishes New Murder Mystery ‘Sky Lake’ At Brett’s cabin in a secluded community, the title’s Sky Lake, he’s confronted by an armed man and quickly astro-Valley-born discovers the darker side of novelist Scott Tahoe’s beauty. Then, three Lipanovich has just more water skiers turn up dead. released his third in a series of four Jeff Taylor murder Lipanovich has set each of mysteries, “Sky Lake.” It’s set his novels, including a planned around Lake Tahoe and pubfourth Jeff Taylor novel, in a lished by Encircle Publications, different region of California which specializes in murder and nearby states. His first, mysteries. “The Lost Coast,” is set in southern Mendocino County. The main character is an The second, “The Golden ex-basketball star player who Ceiling,” is set in Sacramenlost half his hand, ending his to and is dedicated to John plans to go to medical school. He becomes a detective, and CV-born novelist Scott Brosnan, his late great Castro the books put him in specific Lipanovich released his Valley High School coach and third Jeff Taylor murder longtime friend. regions of California, one per mysteries, “Sky Lake.” book. His upcoming fourth Jeff In Sky Lake, Jeff Taylor has Taylor mystery novel, “Seeba’s Ghost,” is set in northwestern gotten on with his life a bit. Tahoe, where he starts up a He’s married to his girlfriend, medical practice. He hikes Mt. Sonoma County. Karen, and they’ve moved to Tallac and afterward sees on Lipanovich graduated from South Lake, where he’s started his computer a headline that a Castro Valley High School a medical practice. He did get star water skier, Brett, a friend in 1973. He’d been captain back into and graduate medical with whom he’d been out of of the football team, played school after all. touch, had been found dead. varsity basketball for 2 years, He looks into it. and varsity baseball for 2. He They move to South Lake won both of the school’s two athletic awards, the Olympian and the Herculean, sharing the latter with 2 others. He came back after graduation to work with Brosnan as an assistant coach for several years. He worked in advertising briefly, then went on to Hollywood to write film and TV screenplays, articles, and a previous novel. He recently helped establish the renowned Doyle Collection of Art at Santa Rose Junior College. He still maintains it and writes his novels despite officially retiring from college. You can buy “Sky Lake” or other Jeff Taylor mysteries through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Target online (but not at stores, except for online pickup), local bookstores, or from Encircle Books at https:// encirclepub.com/. Like, share, and comment on this article on our website: www.mycvforum.com By Mike McGuire
C
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
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Every four years the County of Alameda Area Agency on Aging collects data from older county residents, which we use to determine current and future needs of seniors. If you are 55+, your participation is needed! Scan the QR code below, or log onto https://t.ly/ROkq. Have questions? Call us at 510-268-CWAP (2927).
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CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
3
Sheriff’s Reports
Conflict: Eradicate Darkness
COMPILED BY MICHAEL SINGER • CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wanted Man continued from front page Caught with Meth izations have had difficulty Monday, October 16: at 1:25 getting people into the zone to a.m., Sheriff’s deputies arrested help the wounded in hospitals a 50-year-old man from Castro and displaced in Palestinian Valley was arrested as part of a refugee shelters. warrant issued for his capture. Locally, both Israeli and PalThe man had been previousestinian supporters have called ly convicted of possessing for the end of fighting and the methamphetamine drugs and safe return of more than 120 being under the influence of hostages, including a handful illegal drugs. Deputies served of Americans, captured by the warrant at a home on Briar Hamas. Ridge Drive near Cull Canyon Last week, rallies at San Road. While there, deputies Francisco’s Civic Center, found the man had more drugs Walnut Creek, and elsewhere in his pockets. The man was called for the safe return of taken to Santa Rita Jail. hostages, with praying, singing, and speakers. Car Thief Sent Back to Jail “It feels surreal because you Sunday, October 15: at 3:41 are in America, and you feel p.m., a 40-year-old man from like you can’t do something, PHOTO COURTESY OF YELENA SHAPIRO Castro Valley was arrested as but you are doing something,” part of a warrant issued for said Castro Valley resident The attacks on Israel by Hamas forces drew worldhis capture. Deputies served Yelena Shapiro, who attended wide condemnation. Three days later, about 800 the procession between the people showed up in Walnut Creek to show support the warrant in the parking lot for those negatively impacted, including Castro of the 580 Market Place on Walnut Creek Library and East Castro Valley Boulevard. Lesher Center for the Arts on Valley resident Yelena Shapiro. The man had previously been October 10. “We were expecting about 200 people, and 800 Ami, said it also joins the glob- Gruzman of Chabad of Castro convicted of breaking into and damaging a car, driving a showed up. It was somber and al Jewish community in shock Valley notes doing acts of stolen vehicle, and possessing much more peaceful than I had and outrage at the brutal attack goodness and kindness here a stolen vehicle. Deputies took anticipated.” on Israel and for healing for all can have a positive effect. the man to Santa Rita Jail. Shapiro, who has about 50 those impacted by the violence. “Our positive actions here Jewish and non-Jewish rela“In the depths of our pain, in Castro Valley can influence Public Intoxication tives near the battle, says the the outcome of the war against we also have compassion for Saturday, October 14: at conflict is devastating for all evil raging in Israel. Because the suffering of Palestinian communities. civilians who have been killed, every act of kindness generates 7:45 a.m., deputies arrested a a powerful light that banishes 29-year-old man with no perinjured, and displaced. We “Some of those relatives manent residence on suspicion recently moved to Israel from hope for a speedy end to mili- much darkness and will cerRussia to escape the violence tary hostilities and for a future tainly eradicate this despicable of public intoxication. The of co-existence for the peoples darkness, we all abhor,” Rabbi man was found hanging out in Ukraine,” Shapiro told the Gruzman said. “May this war in the parking lot of a grocery Forum. “Thankfully, they are of the region,” Congregation Shir Ami Past President Ruth be the last one anyone should store on Redwood Road near supplying us with periodical Castro Valley Boulevard. Depever fight, and may we merit Hartman told the Forum. survival checks, so we know uties reported the man failed the realization of the biblical they’re all right. And while Castro Valley prophecies of an era of eternal his field sobriety test and was A representative of Castro may be physically distant from the battlefields, Rabbi S. peace and tranquility for all.” taken to a sobering center. Valley’s Congregation, Shir
The Entire line of
Since 1969
Garden of Life Products
Robbery Suspect Arrested residence on suspicion of driving while intoxicated, driving Thursday, October 12: at with a suspended license, and 3:45 p.m., deputies arrested violating a restraining order a 19-year-old CV man on suspicion of robbery from an requiring her to be at least 100 undisclosed location. The man yards away from a business. was eventually arrested outside The woman was driving near a home on James Avenue near a grocery store on Redwood Road near Castro Valley BouLemas Place following a police search. The man was taken levard when deputies noticed her weaving and pulled her to Santa Rita Jail. into the parking lot. The woman failed her field sobriety test Shoplifter Caught and was taken into custody. Wednesday, October 11: at 7:24 a.m., a 24-year-old Transient Refused man from Castro Valley was to Leave Business arrested on suspicion of shoplifting from a grocery store on Tuesday, October 10: at 3:21 Castro Valley Boulevard near a.m., a 26-year-old man with Redwood Road. Deputies were no permanent residence was called to the scene after store arrested as part of a warrant security detained the man for issued for his capture. The man had previously been convicted leaving without paying for of refusing to leave a business merchandise. The man was property despite being asked taken into custody. to leave by the manager. Deputies stopped the man for Drove Drunk questioning at a gas station on Wednesday, October 11: at 1:20 a.m., deputies pulled over Castro Valley Boulevard near Strobridge Avenue. The man and arrested a 32-year-old was taken to Santa Rita Jail. woman with no permanent
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4 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
Plethos’ Comedy Contest
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Show Me the Funny is back! Last year Plethos Productions held this stand up comedy competition which featured dozens of comics from all over the Bay Area, this November the competition will return for a new night of quick laughs from lots of comics. Enjoy this stand-up showdown at 8pm on Thursday November 2nd, at JP’s Family Restaurant and Sports Lounge! This year will feature two tiers: comedians with over five years experience and those with TAKE A HISTORIC CRUISE ON THE BAY: Castro Valley-based trio The Quitters five years or less for a diverse will be performing during a two-hour public cruise on the bay this Sunday. showcase of comedy. With a grand prize of $500, who knows who will stroll on stage? Plus audience members will get to make their voices heard and vote on which comedian they felt brought the most laughs. Show Me the Funny won’t and Glenn Houston were also he USS Potomac was Tickets are $75 per person have just one round, but two former President Frank- the long-time bassist and lead for the two-hour cruise and rounds of totally original, guitarist for Houston Jones. lin D. Roosevelt’s hisconcert. Then on Saturday, Oct. action-packed stand-up. Round toric yacht, but for the next two 28 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. All together now as The one comedians will have just weekends, it will be filled with Quitters deliver memorable, Castro Valley’s own Plethos three minutes to bring their music and theater performers fun, toe-tapping performances Productions takes command of best and funniest jokes before from Castro Valley. spiced with humor and seren- the former President’s yacht. they drop the mic and peace dipity, says Castro Valley resiOn Sunday, October 22 As the Potomac cruises San out. Qualifiers for the finale dent Jennifer Pettley, who also Francisco Bay, passengers will from 3 to 5 p.m., guests can will return to JPs for a grand serves as the executive director help solve the “Mystery on take a 2-hour cruise with finale in an epic showdown for Castro Valley-based trio The of the USS Potomac Associa- the Potomac.” Plethos actors the grand prize on Thursday, tion which owns and operates will bring back to life several Quitters. Right-side up finger December 7. the Potomac from Jack London illustrious characters from Bay picker Stevie Coyle, upside Round one commences on down flat picker Glenn “Hous- Square in Oakland. Area history and lore, such Thursday, November 2 and ton” Pomianek, and upright as FDR, Steve Jobs, Amelia “This is a delightful way early bird ticket sales end Oct. bassist Chris Kee make up the to spend a Sunday afternoon, Earhart, Etta James, Willie 25 at 11:59pm. Buy your tickets band. They are three of the McCovey, Janis Joplin, the enjoying The Quitters and a ASAP and save $5 off general four original members of The cruise in the Bay on this histor- Bird Man of Alcatraz, Bruce admission at plethos.org! Waybacks quintet. Chris Kee ic vessel,” said Pettley. Lee, and Jerry Garcia. The passengers and performers all help to solve a birthday mystery. Passengers will interact with the characters and immerse themselves in the story to determine who the birthday celebrant is. see USS on back page
CV Musicians, Performers Featured on USS Potomac
T
Beyond The Veil Returns It’s the season for spooky stories! Join the Hayward Area Historical Society for Beyond the Veil, a frightfully delightful guided tour through McConaghy House or Meek Mansion. Tours at McConaghy are available October 20 and 21, and at Meek on October 27 and 28. More info and tickets at: haywardareahistory.org.
Tomorrow • Thursday, October 19 Job Fair at Castro Valley Library The Castro Valley Library and Rubicon Programs will hold a Job Fair at the library (3600 Norbridge Ave. in Castro Valley) tomorrow, Thursday, October 19 from 10 am to 12 noon. Come learn about and meet with many different employers and find the job of your dreams. Tomorrow • Thursday, October 19 A Night of Whisky, Art and Community “We are excited about our first Sip and Savor community event, a Night of Whisky, Art and Community,” said enthused Castro Valley Rotary President Christian Carr. There are still tickets available for tomorrow night, Thursday, October 19 at Redwood Canyon Golf Club at 5:00p.m. by calling: 650-207-4364. Hors d’oeuvres and dinner are available for $75 or with the whisky tasting by the exclusive Australian Starward founder Dave Vitale for an additional $125. The evening includes silent auction items and select bottles for sale. Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Castro Valley Rotary and Castro Valley Arts Foundation. Saturday, October 21 Marc Yaffe at The Comedy Den Marc Yaffe headlines at The Comedy Den this Saturday, October 21 at 7pm. He is the co-host of Showtime’s ‘Goin’ Native’. Marc was voted Best of Fest in the 2022 Burbank Comedy Festival, and was named one of the 25 Indigenous Comedians to watch by IllumiNatives Magazine. Tickets are available at: www.thecomedydencv.com Sunday, October 22 Above and Beyond Go on a journey through 2,000 years of women’s contributions to astronomy and space exploration this Sunday, October 22 at 2pm at the Library. Local author Dale DeBakcsy will lecture about the first female astronomers in the Babylonian empire all the way up to the women who are working in space and directing planetary surveys today. Visit www.aclibrary.org and click “events” to register. Monday, October 23 Eden Garden Club Fall Bazaar Eden Garden Club will be holding their Fall Bazaar on Monday, October 23, from 9:30am to 12 noon at Castro Valley United Methodist Church located at 19806 Wisteria St., Castro Valley. Drop off donations from 7am to 8:30am. Please no clothing, car seats, or bed pillows. For more info contact Dona Pedvin at 510-499-2132. Monday, October 23 Cybercrime Trends of 2023 and Prevention Guidance Join the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) at the Castro Valley Library on Monday, October 23 from 12:30pm to 2pm for an informative presentation about Cybercrime Trends of 2023 and Prevention Guidance. The FBI will provide an overview of the top cybercrimes facing our communities and offer practical tips to safeguard your households and businesses. (NAA) and the Castro Valley Library. October is Cyber-Security Month. Tuesday, October 24 CV Rotary Hosts State Assembly Member Liz Ortega State Assembly Member Liz Ortega, shares updates on the latest legislation and her work and a representative in Sacramento. A buffet lunch and the program take place at Redwood Canyon Golf Course (17007 Redwood Road, Castro Valley) at noon to 1:30pm. The cost of lunch is $20 and reservations must be made by 9pm Sunday, October 22, by emailing: cvrotary@iCloud.com or 510-402-5123. More information is available at castrovalleyrotary.org. PLACE LISTINGS ONLINE: MYCVFORUM.COM/EVENTS
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
Judy Rose Realtor®
CRS, SRES • CA BRE# 00633313
Karin Johnson Owner
• Over 40 Years Serving the Needs of Sellers and Buyers with Integrity. • Certified Residential Specialist (only the top agents in the country earn this designation). • Senior Real Estate Specialist Serving the needs of Seniors and their Families. • Accredited Staging Professional and Design Consultant. Offering Free Consultation for Sellers to Maximize your profits. Email: judy@judyrose.com 3327 Castro Valley Blvd., Castro Valley, CA 94546
Karin Johnson Specialty Cakes & Pastries 20865 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley • 329-5980
Misti Short
Cindy Kellar
My passion of animals led me to own and operate my own Pet Spaw. It turned out to be so much fun just seeing how happy our pet owners are with our spaw results. Our services include: In-House Grooming Spaw, Luxury Travel Grooming Spaw, Dog Training, and Cats Only Days. We are in the process of expanding our business to include a ReTail Pet supply store a few doors down from our location. Come in and let us put a little dazzle in your doggie’s wiggle waggle!
CLASSY CANINE’S WIGGLE RUMPS • (510) 583-7297 2602 Castro Valley Blvd., C.V. • WiggleRumps.com
Malanie Yan
Realtor® • Cal BRE# 01479962
With over 18 years under her belt, Malanie Yan is not your ordinary real estate agent. Buying or selling a home can be stressful and time-consuming but not with Malanie! Her clients are some of the happiest and knowledgeable home buyers and sellers in the Bay Area. That’s because Malanie’s first priority is exceeding her clients’ goals with integrity, attention-to-detail and a dash of humor. Whether it be managing a remodel, staging, photography, or advertising a residential property, Malanie works with resources and local professionals in the community to provide the utmost of service. Thinking of buying or selling, call me, so you can be provided with “Service You Can Trust.”
United Brokers Real Estate • 510-325-1163 Tere Lee & Danielle Ewing Realtors® (DRE#s 00908857 & 02176998)
United Brokers Real Estate
“Trust A Professional Who Cares” “ We needed to sell our family home in Washington Manor quickly to meet our family’s changing needs. Tere and Danielle were extremely professional, patient communicative and responsive. If you are looking for a dynamic experienced team, whether Selling or Buying a home, we highly recommend them. We could not be happier with the service and the knowledgeable guidance they gave us.” ~ Laurie and family “ It’s Nice To Be Home”
Tere Lee, CRS • (510) 305-8827 Danielle Ewing • (408) 828-3897
Owner
Studio 144 Architects is a Oakland based VSLBE Architecture firm owned by Brittany D. Dhawan, AIA, LFA. Brittany has 19 yearsof experience in the field of architecture in various kinds of projects from large multifamily housing projects to churches, libraries, schools, college buildings, houses. Renovation is a specialty of Studio 144 Architects, but we also do new construction as well. We love to collaborate with owners and other firms on a variety of projects. Call us today for a free consultation.
RE/MAX Accord • 510-220-6206
Owner
Brittany D. Dhawan, AIA, LFA
Realtor • DRE #01456637 Meet Cindy, your top choice for tailored real estate excellence. With 19+ years of experience, she’s committed to providing unique, client-focused service. She excels in getting sellers the highest returns, and for those needing home renovations before selling, she offers a concierge service (an interest free property prep loan for Sellers) Cindy understands that every client and property is distinct, ensuring a customized approach for buyers, sellers, and investors. Her dedication is unparalleled, making her more than just an agent – she’s your trusted advisor and partner. Choose Cindy for a seamless real estate experience. Contact her today to unlock the full potential of your real estate investments.
Everhome Real Estate • 510-301-3456 cindy@everhomere.com
Tianne Rinetti-Vittoria REALTOR® / Owner
I realized long ago that I had a unique opportunity to enter in what has become a fantastic family business. My father started his own destiny back in 1968 when he began his Real Estate journey. By 1970, he opened up Rinetti & Co Realtors which has now become a generational family business that I couldn’t be prouder of. It was in 1999 that I made the decision to contribute and learn how to succeed, carry out a strong code of ethics, respect of others, and the industry that has become my life for the past 24 years. Honestly, I have never looked back! I bring my own passion to working with others, creating an experience, designing a devising a thoughtful plan for selling and buying & forging relationship that last well beyond a working relationship. I will always remember where this love and commitment for Real Estate came from. I believe our company, Rinetti & Company is unique in that way. We all encourage each others strengths share our experiences and encourage one another to succeed. We strive to do our best, help others find their dream homes, move on to their next home and create a new future. Thank you to all our past clients for your continued support and all of those we look forward to helping now and in the future.
Rinetti & Co. Realtors • (510) 568-6171
Studio 144 Architects • 559-232-6407 brittany@studio144architects.com
JENNY KIM HONG
IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY
I am the owner of a small boutique immigration law firm in San Leandro. I focus my practice to 100% immigration law, as I am committed to providing my clients with high-level, attorney-driven representation, allowing us to provide an individualized solution and success-driven outcome. We pride ourselves on our 99% approval rate. I enjoy assisting families, employers and business owners obtain legal residence, citizenship or naturalization, as well as other nonimmigrant visas. I chose “Omega” as the name to represent the beginning and end solution to one’s immigration needs. After having moved my business to San Leandro from the San Jose area, I am enjoying the variety of clientele from San Leandro, Castro Valley, Hayward, Oakland, and neighboring cities. Our services also include: free consultations and Spanish-speaking legal assistants.
Omega Immigration Law, APC • (510) 567-4646
14895 E. 14TH ST., SUITE 240 • SAN LEANDRO, CA 94578 (same parking lot as Western Dental building and Mel’s Diner)
Lynn Levin
Real Estate Salesperson
“Getting the job done right!”
Lynn is a multi-million-dollar producer with a focus on service and real estate with “a personal touch”. She brings over 38 years of experience selling residential real estate in this area. She has been awarded the Bay East Association of Realtors’ Grand Master Award and is a consistent Top Producer in her area. Lynn has been the President of Soroptimist International of the East Bay and currently is their Membership Chair. A few years ago she served as the district’s Fellowship Director, awarding over $100K to women completing their doctorates. Soroptimist is a worldwide group founded in Oakland in 1921 and dedicated to helping women and children locally and throughout the world. At the local level, the group’s focus is on helping raise money for the indigent, battered and elderly members of the community. A recent addition is helping at-risk women become free from trafficking in the East Bay. Born in New York City in 1947 to an Italian-American family, Lynn attended Hunter College and then went on to own her own ethnic music store in Greenwich Village, “The House of Musical Traditions.” She was an accomplished craftsperson, building dulcimers, and later did music management. Lynn has one son who she home schooled and who graduated from Dominican College on a tennis scholarship with a degree in business. And, of course, saving the best for last — 14 years ago, she was blessed with a beautiful granddaughter, and 6 years ago with a handsome grandson.
(510) 329-4158 • www.RinettiCo.com • trinetti@sbcglobal.net
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services - Drysdale Properties • 510-593-7377
Michelle Castro
Linda Nakhai
Owner Massage & Skin Care are my passions. I graduated from The National Holistic Institute in Emeryville, CA, in 2002. In 2012 I went into the beauty space & became a licensed esthetician. I offer a variety of modalities & treatments in the beauty & wellness realm. FOR BODY: massage, prenatal, deep tissue, lymphatic drainage massage for wellness & post operative recovery. Enhanced lymphatic therapy & body sculpting. FOR SKIN: facials, advanced chemical peels, hydra-dermabrasion, derma-planning as well as intimate bleaching for your most delicate parts. VOTED BEST MASSAGE IN THE EAST BAY 2023 BY THE EAST BAY TIMES. I look forward to working with you.
ABSOLUTE BLISS SKIN SPA STUDIO (510) 305-3489 • 22093 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
Email: lynnlevin@aol.com • Website: www.lynnlevin.com
Account Executive Display Advertising I enjoy assisting business owners in developing a very affordable and consistent advertising campaign tailored to their budget in our weekly community newspapers - Castro Valley Forum and San Leandro Times. When you place your display ads in our community newspapers this becomes a great marketing strategy to attract consumers to your business. My services include: free consultations, helping you develop your ad copy, layout, and design, and providing proof copies of your ad before it appears in our papers. Appointments with me can be made at your convenience on weekdays, evenings, or weekends. Please give me a call, or email me, for more information. East Bay Publishing, Inc. • lnakhai@comcast.net Castro Valley Forum/San Leandro Times • (510) 915-1513
5
Homes
6 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
REAL ESTATE GALLERY REAL ESTATE REALITY
By Carl Medford, CRS
GUEST COMMENTARY
Special to the Forum
NAR Working to Reduce Mortgage Interest Rates uation. In response, the National Special to the Forum Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has specific suggestions As interest rates confor federal regulators to reduce tinue rising, a domino mortgage interest rates. effect is threatening In a memo just released to to bring the real estate market Alameda County Realtors, Dato a halt. Potential sellers with vid Stark, Bay East Association mortgages in the sub-3% range of Realtors Chief Public Affairs cannot stomach the idea of and Communications Officer losing their current mortgages stated, “NAR has joined a coaliand replacing them with rates tion of lenders and independent approaching 8%. Consequently, community banks asking the they are putting potential sales Department of the Treasury and on hold, causing an inventory the National Economic Council shortage which is pushing prices to stabilize the mortgage-backed higher. Buyers, reaching the securities market and reduce the limits of their purchasing power, gap between 30-year mortgage are putting their hopes of home rates and 10-year Treasuries. ownership on the shelf, hoping NAR and its partners stated in the market will stabilize in the a letter to federal regulators that future. these actions could significantly In the meantime, the Fed is lower mortgage interest rates, discussing raising rates even increase housing affordability, higher – a move that would and jump-start real estate marfurther aggravate the current sit- kets nationwide.” By Carl Medford, CRS
A
Helping you with all your REAL ESTATE needs Since 1984
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In their communications to the Fed, NAR states, “The gap between the 30-year fixed rate mortgage and 10-year Treasury is normally about 1.5%. Currently it is now closer to 3%. This 1.5% extra gap reflects inefficiencies in the market, but in particular the Fed’s attempt to reduce its holding of MBS when there are few/no buyers to replace it. This decline demand causes rates to go up relative to Treasuries. Simultaneously several factors have reduced demand for MBS that could be a long-term issue. Under GSE reform, the GSEs’ portfolios are limited to minimal sizes. Thus, a second major source of demand is gone. Compounding this is that banks tend not to want to buy mortgages or MBS in rising rate environments and that some are actually selling them due to financial strain (e.g. Silicon Valley Bank). All this has resulted in drain on demand is pressing up on mortgage rates relative to Treasuries.” As the situation worsens, it is our hope that the Fed will finally listen to reason and make appropriate changes to help breathe life back into the real estate market.
Backyard Beekeeper Has Neighbor Buzzing By Samantha Mazzotta Special to the Forum
Q
My next-door neighbor informed me yesterday that he intends to set up a beehive in his yard. Is he even allowed to do this in a populated area? We both have half-acre lots, and he says the hive likely will be located in a far corner, but I see nuisance and even disaster ahead. What if the bees swarm? What if they sting a child and, God forbid, that child is allergic? Should I contact the city about this?
A
Believe it or not, beekeeping can and does take place in suburban areas – and even in the middle of the city. I understand your concern, however. Take heart in the fact that your neighbor came over to tell you about the planned hive before it arrived. That gives you the opportunity to ask some questions about the hive, the type of bees and so on. I encourage you to keep it polite. For now, just ask questions and listen to your neighbor. There’s a very good chance that he has been researching beekeeping for
It’s a GREAT Time to Sell! Put my 35+ years of experience to work for you!
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some time and that he even knows the municipal ordinances regarding the activity. If he already has some homesteading activities going on, such as keeping a few chickens, and those activities haven’t been a nuisance to you or others, it’s likely that the beehive will make little to no difference in the neighborhood – other than the flowers in your garden perhaps blooming bigger and better than ever before, thanks to nature’s best pollinators living nearby. After talking to your neighbor, do some research of your own. MAAREC (Mid-Atlantic Apicultural https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:BeeResearch & Extension Con- keeper_keeping_bees.jpg#/media/File:Beesortium) has a good pamphlet keeper_keeping_bees.jpg available to download as a PDF about suburban beekeep- population worldwide is ing, and a number of websites greatly concerning researchare available under that search ers, so homesteaders’ beeterm. There are many ways for keeping can be a small but beekeepers to reduce the pos- helpful contribution toward sibility of nuisance and stings solving the problem. And, being on friendly terms with in the neighborhood. You also can contact a successful beekeeper can your municipality about have the positive side effect of whether beekeeping is al- receiving an occasional, and lowed. If it is specifically per- perhaps steady, gift of honey. Home Tip: Interested in mitted, there are usually rules about how big the hive can be beekeeping but don’t have a and whether it needs to be reg- lot of money or space? Look istered with the state’s agricul- up local beekeeping groups online or consider starting one tural office. Above all, give it a at a community garden or othchance. The dwindling bee er open space. SOLD $1,530,000 Peaceful Quiet Setting: 5305 Proctor Lane, Castro Valley
This elegant custom built 4 bedroom, 3 bath, 3-car garage home with full bedroom and bath on the main floor offers lots of privacy. The beautiful grand foyer and cathedral ceilings welcome you into the bright and sunny family room and kitchen. A fabulous primary retreat with a spa like bath. Beautifully landscaped yards with aggregate patio and deck offer a private oasis. Close to the highly rated Proctor Elementary School. Asking $1,499,000. Call Trish 510 367-7999 Now is a great time to sell!!
Coldwell Banker Real Estate
Call Trish Radovich: 510-367-7999 / calltrish@comcast.net
21060 Redwood Rd. Ste. 100 • Castro Valley
Robert Jones and Associates Open Saturday 1-3.... 1218 139th Ave. • $723,000 3 Bedrooms, Great Location & Condition!
DAVID S. WILHITE PROFESSIONAL FULL SERVICE REALTOR SERVING CASTRO VALLEY AND SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES FOR OVER 40 YEARS
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Homes
CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
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$1,170,000 [4 BD - 1,817 SF [3 BD - 1,938 SF - 2015 71 Harlan Street 94577: $750,000 2058 Bradhoff Avenue 94577: RECENT HOME SALES $975,000 1068 Central Boulevard 94542: [2 BD - 948 SF - 1940 $880,000 [3 BD - 1,309 SF - 1947 1998
Home sales information is compiled and provided by CalREsource $1,000,000 [3 BD - 1,232 SF and includes Bedrooms, Square Feet and Year Built when available 1959
BD - 2,684 SF - 1950 1318 B Street #208 94541: $540,000 [2 BD - 1,081 SF - 1984 19659 Center Street 94546: 685 Dean Street 94541: $550,000 $776,000 [4 BD - 1,146 SF - 1947 [2 BD - 635 SF - 1940 18584 Carlton Avenue 94546: 26234 Coleman Avenue 94544: $1,068,000 [3 BD - 1,591 SF $575,000 [3 BD - 1,130 SF - 1953 1966 2646 Oliver Drive 94545: $719,000 2700 Somerset Avenue 94546: [4 BD - 1,474 SF - 1971 $1,160,000 [4 BD - 1,712 SF 18741 Melrose Avenue 94541: 1963 $750,000 [3 BD - 1,156 SF - 1951 4733 Rollinghills Way 94546: 612 Artistic Place 94541: $750,000 $1,200,000 [3 BD - 1,572 SF [2 BD - 1,700 SF - 2004 1959 300 Old Oak Lane #1 94541: 3546 Quail Avenue 94546: $775,000 [3 BD - 1,538 SF - 2010 $1,290,000 [4 BD - 1,548 SF 28624 Roanoke Street 94544: 1959 $825,000 [4 BD - 1,490 SF - 1960 25520 Foggy Glen Drive 94552: 114 Virginia Street 94544: $1,300,000 [3 BD - 1,374 SF $875,000 [3 BD - 1,070 SF - 1952 1998 19563 Royal Avenue 94541: 18351 Carlton Avenue 94546: $875,000 [3 BD - 1,626 SF - 1951 $1,480,000 [4 BD - 2,752 SF - ] 22488 South Garden Avenue 5826 Greenridge Road 94552: 94541: $880,000 [5 BD - 1,848 $1,670,000 [4 BD - 1,834 SF SF - 1947 1960 1293 West Street 94545: $900,000 [3 BD - 1,227 SF - 1954 HAYWARD 25510 Scripps Street 94545: Total: 26 – Average Price: $879,730 High: $1,535,000 – Low: $400,000 $930,000 [3 BD - 1,374 SF - 1959 470 C Street 94541: $530,000 [5 90 Middleton Place 94544: CASTRO VALLEY
Total: 11 – Average Price: $1,266,454 High: $1,800,000 – Low: $815,000
132 Berry Avenue 94544: $1,180,000 [4 BD - 1,807 SF 2001 29049 Hillview Street 94544: $1,200,000 [3 BD - 1,614 SF 1995 1777 Dahill Lane 94541: $1,225,000 [3 BD - 2,933 SF 1958 3632 Seabreeze Court 94542: $1,350,000 [3 BD - 1,768 SF 1973 3455 Skyline Drive 94542: $1,390,000 [3 BD - 1,808 SF 1979 30021 Mountain View Drive 94544: $1,575,000 [4 BD - 2,734 SF 2018 87 Dunfirth Drive 94542: $2,138,000 [4 BD - 3,965 SF 2017
SAN LEANDRO
Total: 15 – Average Price: $845,833 High: $1,560,000 – Low: $329,000
1132 Carpentier Street #307 94577: $445,000 [2 BD - 1,182 SF - 1983 16380 Gordon Way 94578: $610,000 [2 BD - 778 SF - 1952
2032 Cleveland Street 94577: $765,000 [3 BD - 1,028 SF - 1944 1552 Plaza Drive 94578: $780,000 [2 BD - 1,196 SF - 1925 14995 Lark Street 94578: $810,000 [3 BD - 1,137 SF - 1945 1536 137th Avenue 94578: $869,000 [3 BD - 1,360 SF - 1947 478 Lloyd Avenue 94578: $870,000 [3 BD - 1,014 SF - 1952
14228 Maracaibo Road 94577: $901,000 [4 BD - 1,386 SF - 1962 14886 Farnsworth Street 94579: $910,000 [4 BD - 1,500 SF - 1950 538 Fortuna Avenue 94577: $963,000 [2 BD - 1,144 SF - 1938 747 Maud Avenue 94577: $1,050,000 [3 BD - 1,916 SF 1926 15653 Fantail Court 94579:
295 Oakes Boulevard 94577: $1,200,000 [3 BD - 1,418 SF 1915
SAN LORENZO
Total: 6 – Average Price: $857,666 High: $950,000 – Low: $620,000
1732 Bockman Road 94580: $859,000 [3 BD - 1,078 SF - 1954 18920 Times Avenue 94580: $980,000 [4 BD - 1,750 SF - 1956
Mortgage Rates Continue to Climb
For the fifth consecutive week, mortgage rates rose as ongoing market and geopolitical uncertainty continues to increase. The good news is that the economy and incomes continue to grow at a solid pace, but the housing market remains fraught with significant affordability constraints. As a result, purchase demand remains at a three-decade low.
SATURDAY & SUNDAY OPEN HOMES HOMES OCTOBER 21 & 22
CITY SAT H 1-4 A
SUN ADDRESS 1-4 5889 Bryn Mawr 1-3 1218 139th Ave
PRICE $659,000 $723,000
BDR./BA. 2/1 3/1
REALTOR AGENT Re/Max Accord Lovewell Team RobertJonesandAssoc Matt / Dilek
PHONE 510-381-1065 510 -357-0120
A = SAN LEANDRO • B = SAN LORENZO • C = CASTRO VALLEY • D = DUBLIN • F = FREMONT • H = HAYWARD • K = KNIGHTSEN
CITY GUIDE O = OAKLAND • P = PLEASANTON • S = SHEFFIELD VILLAGE • SR = SAN RAMON • W = WALNUT CREEK • Z = ALAMEDA
All real estate advertised in the Castro Valley Forum is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, marital status, national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. The Castro Valley Forum will not knowingly accept any advertisement for real estate that is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby
CASTRO VALLEY IS OUR BUSINESS, LIFE AND OUR PASSION JON & LESLIE REAL ESTATE GROUP
20880 REDWOOD RD. CASTRO VALLEY WWW.JONANDLESLIE.COM
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VALLEY FORUM 8 CASTRO Wednesday, October 18, 2023
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California law requires that contractors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. State Law also requires that contractors include their license number on all advertising. Advertisers appearing on this page without a license number indicate that the contractor is not licensed. You can check the status of your licensed contractor at www.cslb.ca.gov or (800) 321-2752. Unlicensed contractors taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board.
FENCES/DECKS
*SPECIALIZING IN WOOD FENCES, DECKS & RETAINING WALLS. Replace or repair, paved walkways, yard cleaning, tree trimming, topping or removal, garage cleaning & debris removal. Insured & Bonded #8189. Jerry 510-410-2427. Fence wobbly? Call Randy's Fence Reinforcement and save thousands! 510-706-6189. CLASSIFIED AD DEADLINE: Monday 5:00 p.m.
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HAYWARD FLEA MARKET Eden FREE - 5’ Wooden fence with gate. Gardens Estates MHP Clubhouse Fence is 62”W ... gate is 28” (total 1150 W. Winton Ave. Sat, Oct. 21st, width 90”). Call 510-517-3351. 9 am - 3 pm Homemade crafts, hshld items, clothing, antiques, power tools, treasures galore! No Early Birds. ANDYMAN ERVICE
GARDENING
*BEAUTY GARDEN 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
AL’S Keep It Green But Trim. Yard Maintenance. Since 1995. Great Rates. FREE Estimates. 510927-6663.
JAIME’S GARDENING Maintenance, Trimming, Cleanups, Hauling, Sprinkler Repair/ Timers. FREE Estimates. Insured. 510-299-9583
GARDENING/TREE SERVICE NAVA'S COMPLETE LANDSCAPING: Mowing, trees, cleanup, hauling, FREE estimates. 510 512-5857.
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IT’S TOTALLY FINISHED CONSTRUCTION. Lic.#583113. Floors, Carpet, Fences, Decks, Patios, Paint- Hot Wheels - individually or by the ing, Sheetrock, Windows, Remodel- case and other collectible toys. 510355-5661. ing. Martin 510-384-8041.
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HAULING: Small and Big Jobs. Furniture, Concrete, Wood, Trash, Metal, Demolition. Also house inside/ outside cleanups. 510-715-1578. UNION HAULING SERVICE. Remove Concrete/ Dirt, Foundation Demolition Excavation, Trees, Sheds, Dumps, and Bobcat Service. FREE Estimates. Danny 510-860-1011. LANDLORDS - Advertise your units! – A vacancy day is money lost forever – R. Bowman
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79 Cuisine at Home cooking magazines in excellent condition $40. Lee 510-786-7416.
MISC. WANTED
WANTED - Reel to reel music tapes, Call Patrick 510-517-3351. HANDYMAN & CONTRACTORS 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.
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
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RENTALS
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San Leandro PRIVACY ABOUNDS Renovated one bedroom duplex unit. $1750/ month Gary 510-846-2918.
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RV/ Trailer space in San Leandro and Oakland& Hayward. $925/ month. Call 510-481-9901.
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*A CAREFUL TREE SERVICE. Certified. Arborist. Lic.#694067. Trimming, Removals. FREE Estimates. Bonded. Call 510-581-7377.
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10 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
Seniors: Advance Care Planning In terms of form is signed by the patient’s legal docudoctor and becomes an actual ments, I also physician’s order. As such, it suggest that carries special weight because your parents it must be honored by all sign an Admedical personnel involved vance Healthin treatment. Your parents’ care Directive, which expresses physician, rather than any their end-of-life wishes and designated agent, would have appoints a health care agent responsibility for implementing By Gene L. Osofsky, Esq. to implement them if they are your parents’ wishes. By doing SPECIAL TO THE FORUM unable to do so themselves. this, your parents can relieve A. Yes, I do. The first step They can either sign a preprint- you and your siblings of the ed form or they may have a is to begin the conversation. responsibility of making the customized document prepared final decisions. There is an excellent “Conversation Guide” prepared by by their estate planning or elThe POLST form is deder law attorney. Please Note: signed to become a permanent the California Coalition for While this is a very valuable Compassionate Care that is part of the patient’s medical reavailable for free download at and important document, cords and to travel with the pastudies do show that end-of-life tient as he/she moves from one www.finalchoices.org, or by calling 916-552-7573. It is not decisions are, unfortunately, treatment facility to another. It HAVE A PLAN: Without a proper plan in place for the future care of your pets, necessary to conduct the entire not honored as often as most is printed on bright pink paper they are at risk of ending up in a shelter where they could be euthanized. people think. Sometimes the conversation in one sitting. so that it is easily identifiable in Instead, it can be an extended signed directive is not available the patient’s chart. At least one discussion that is raised from at the time of need, or it is not study has shown that patients time to time, just in case your clear, or the designated agent who had properly executed is just unwilling to give up the POLST forms had much less parents’ wishes change over time. One of the best ways to hope that further treatment unwanted hospitalization and Wills ly obligated to follow your By Jim Miller may restore their loved one’s ensure that their wishes are medical interventions. If you already have a will or instructions, spend the money SPECIAL TO THE FORUM honored is for you to help them health. We therefore recomFor more information on are planning to make one, you as you intended or send the pet mend that your parents also communicate their wishes to Advanced Healthcare DirecEvery year, approximately could simply add in a trusted to another caretaker that you’ve take the following further step tives and the POLST form, you 500,000 cats and dogs enter their family and physicians. caretaker clause for your pets, named. Once the money is in the following circumstances: may either visit our own web- shelters when their pet parents along with an alternative if distributed to the caretaker, it’s For persons faced with a site (www.LawyerForSeniors. experience an emergency or your first choice falls through. an honor system. serious or potentially terminal com) or you may contact the pass away. Without a proper You should also set aside monTrusts illness, they should initiate a Coalition for Compassionate plan in place for the future care ey in your will for your pet’s Another option is to create a discussion with their physician Care of California at 916-489- of your pets, they are at risk of care with an explanation of pet trust, which provides more with the idea of jointly signing 2222 ( www.capolst.org), or the ending up in a shelter where how the funds should be spent. legal protections. Depending Living Trusts & a document known as “Physi- California Medical Association they could be euthanized. To determine how much on your state’s laws (see aspca. Trust Administration cian Orders for Life-Sustaining at 1-800-882-1262 (www. To avoid this terrifying to leave, multiply your pet’s org/pet-care/pet-planning/ Treatment (“POLST”). This cmanet.org). scenario and ensure your annual food, care and medical pet-trust-laws), you could set Probate • Wills is an innovative medical form Gene L. Osofsky is an furry family is cared for both costs by their life expectanup either a revocable pet trust, Real Estate • Litigation recently created under Califor- elder law and estate planning physically and financially after cies. You may want to add a which can be changed or nia law that allows patients to attorney who has been helping you’re gone, you should consid- separate document, called a canceled during your lifetime, — Give Us a Call — specify what kind of care they East Bay families for over 30 er including them in your esletter of instruction, describing or an irrevocable pet trust that Most Initial Consultations Are Free years with Trusts, Powers of wish at the end of their life. tate plan. Talk to your attorney your pet’s routine, food and can’t be reversed. A pet trust Attorney, Probate, Medi-Cal The most important feature, about how to insert them in medication. can be completely separate or (510) 357-3403 and the one that distinguishes Planning, and related matters. your will or trust in accordance But be aware that even with part of an existing trust that 1883 East 14th Street it from the Advanced Health- Visit: LawyerForSeniors.com, with your state’s laws. Here’s this provision in your will encompasses your other assets. San Leandro or call (510) 247-2555. care Directive, is that the what you’ll need to do. the caretaker is not legalsee PETS on page 11 Q. Our parents are up in years and have become increasingly frail. I know that they both have definite wishes about advance care planning and end-of-life decisions. Any suggestions on how to make sure their wishes are honored?
Protecting Pets After You’re Gone
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CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
Science Night at Library The geometry of the ancient Greeks took place on an ideal, infinite, flat plane. In the millenia since then, mathematicians have opened our minds to the more general and flexible geometries of curved spaces — from the fabric that makes up our clothing, to the spacetime around a black hole. This newfound intuition has intriguing applications, including to recent images from the James Webb Space Telescope! Such understanding allows us to better appreciate Einstein’s greatest insight: that gravity is not a force, but rather a consequence of living in a curvy world. Our speaker, Steve Trettel, is Assistant Professor of Mathematics at the University of San Francisco. He is a geometric topologist who loves computer graphics and a good bike ride. He will speak at the Castro Valley Library on Wednesday, October 25 at 7pm.
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MAC: Economic Development Update
CV Author Gives Talk On October 7, Castro Valley resident Randall Micek spoke at Museum of the Bible in Washington DC. The event was held to introduce his new book, Thy Will Be Done. Micek is a Christian author and the purpose of his new book is to provide the reader with a Biblical foundation for prayer. The book, Thy Will Be Done, is available on Amazon, and Micek can be reached at the website www.randallmicek.com
Pets: Appointing a Trustee, Caretaker continued from previous page and $1,000. There are also cheaper do-it-yourself resourcAlong with appointing a trustee to manage your trust’s es for making a simple will finances, you name your pet’s or trust, like Nolo’s Quicken caretaker (who could also serve WillMaker & Trust (Nolo. com, $99) and Trust & Will as the trustee), and any alter(TrustandWill.com, $159). Or, native caretakers, as well as an optional trust protector for if that’s more than you’re willadded oversight of the trustee ing to pay, you can make your given that the beneficiary (your will for free at FreeWill.com or DoYourOwnWill.com. pets) can’t defend their own rights. Unlike a will, the careOther Arrangements taker has a fiduciary duty to If you don’t have anyone follow your letter of instruction willing to take care of your if you include one. pets after you’re gone, you should make arrangements to The cost for a living trust leave them to an animal retireranges anywhere between $1,000 to $3,000, while a will ment home, a rescue, humane typically costs between $200 society, pet care program or
Kimberly Blair & Betty van Sweringen
There will be a service to celebrate the lives of Kimberly Blair and Betty van Sweringen, to be held 1:00–4:00, October 28, 2023 at United Methodist Church, 19806 Wisteria Street, Castro Valley. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to cancersupport.net, 925-933-0107.
other animal welfare group. Many of these organizations find new homes for pets or offer lifetime care but may require a fee or donation. Talk to your veterinarian about the options available in your area. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
awnings, and landscaping. In Castro Valley Economic continued from front page the Eden area, 23 businesses Development Update regulations, EBMUD must create a service line inventory Jaimie Orfanos, the county’s in total are participating. For more, visit: edenupgrade.org. by this time next year, and Assistant Director of Ecocustomers with GRRS must be nomic and Civic Development Three digital billboards have notified. (ECD), also spoke at Monday’s replaced traditional billboards MAC meeting. Back in the at 38 sites in the Eden Area, The galvanized pipes are summer, the MAC had asked with the Castro Valley billmade of iron or steel and the ECD for a deep dive into board located at the 580 Marhave zinc coating, but once what they do and to provide ketplace. The county estimates that coating is gone, the iron data specifics, so Orfanos came between $132,00 and $172,00 will corrode, and lead-bearback to address the MAC. in annual revenue comes from ing scales can form and be the billboards. released into water even when Orfanos told the MAC the lead pipes themselves are that the ECD does a variety Orfanos also touted the ancient history. These pipes are of things, including business ECD’s permit coaching, no longer in use but were com- attraction and retention, supwhich guides small businesses mon in the 1960s and earlier. port for local entrepreneurs, through the often-confusing promoting community identity, permitting process and helps Now, EBMUD has hired and commercial beautification. entrepreneurs find department a contractor to visit 10,000 contacts and referrals. homes and businesses, which She highlighted the façade and billboard programs, the involves a visual inspection “Permit coaching is fairly banners that line the Bouleat the meter box and, in most new,” said Orfanos. “We try to cases, will not involve contact vard, the way-finding signs, connect people with what they with customers. Informational marketing, business grants, and need to support them opening permit coaching. pamphlets are being distribor expanding a business.” uted. Six businesses in Castro Orfanos says major ECD projects coming up are the After the inventory is com- Valley are currently taking pleted (anticipated November part in the façade improvement old Castro Valley project, the 2024), customers who are program, where they can take Lorenzo Theater, future wayfinding, more façade improvefound to have GRRs will be advantage of up to $80,000 ments, general small business notified. EBMUD estimates in county funding (with a 50 about 5,000 customers will percent cash match or $40,000 assistance, and unincorporated be notified that their lines will with no cash match) to improve area economic development need replacing. The GRR their signage, windows, paint, market analysis. laterals are the homeowners’ responsibility, and customers will receive annual notifications until the GRR is replaced. While EBMUD emphasizes that customers are at low risk, they invite people to call them for a free lead test, advise Castro Valley/Eden Area Chamber of Commerce Lunch that older pipes and facets are & Learn today (Wednesday, October 18) at 12 noon with replaced and that customers Castro Valley Forum Managing Editor Michael Singer. consider a filter for their drinkThis session will introduce Chamber members to the go-to ing water. place for news in town and help them understand how best The MAC told EBMUD to utilize the newspaper’s more than 60,000 readers with that they’d like to hear soon advertising and news announcements. Attendees will be from the utility’s general able to ask questions and take advantage of a special offer. manager to talk about their Join via Zoom at: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87504755909 line-item budget.
Lunch and Learn with Michael Singer Today
Since 1965
Jess C. Spencer Mortuary & Crematory
21228 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley
581-9133
Offering Personalized Memorial and Cremation Services.
FD 1168 CR49
www.mycvforum.com
12 CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
DA: Retail Theft Team
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
continued from front page Alameda County Deputy District Attorney Brian Varghese. Price was flanked by Police, representatives from various local Chambers of Commerce, the Oakland Chinatown Improvement Association, the Bay Area Council, representatives from the cannabis industry, and retailers such as Whole Foods. Target, for example, announced it was closing three Oliver DeBonis (Vannoy stores in September, including Elementary) is our Athlete of the San Francisco, Pittsburg, and Week. Along with his acrobatic Oakland, because of an overgymnastics partner, Elise Brazier whelming number of smash(Contra Costa Christian), the pair and-grab thefts. kicked off the season with a silver “If the District Attorney’s medal and then took five gold new Organized Retail Theft medals, including gold at the state, Vertical Prosecution Team can regional, and national championprovide some relief, I welcome ships. Their routine showcased the initiative,” Oakland City precision, balance, and the essential Councilwoman Carroll Fife trust between teammates, leaving said. “We must also keep in a lasting impression on judges and mind that these initiatives only spectators. While competing against work as one part of a much top talent nationwide, Oliver and larger strategy that resources Elise’s synchronized and graceful both small businesses and routine earned them the national their patrons, so they are gold medal in Tulsa, Oklahoma, not struggling to meet their in June. The pair will continue basic needs, which includes competing through Minneapolis affordable commercial rents, nationals for the 2024 season. low-interest business financing, Trent, age 12, a seventh robust infrastructure and city grader at Redwood Christian services and violence preMiddle School, caught this The Matt Wilhite Team vention services that support beautiful 36-inch, leopard proud to at-risk communities.” Isisproud to sponsor sponsor shark, using squid for bait. Athlete of the Week Alameda County has had Congratulations on your Athlete the Week a difficult time stopping OliverofDeBonis ‘Great Catch,’ Trent! Have a coordinated smash-and-grab ‘Great Catch’ you’d like to thefts because the commercial share with the community? shoplifting valued at less than Please send a photo and $950 during business hours information by email to: filesforforum@gmail.com was a misdemeanor crime and underreported, according to a report last month by the Public Policy Institute of California. Since the passage of Proposition 47 (2014) and the return restoration, and has berthed the from COVID restrictions, continued from page 4 see them 163-164 hours in that Alameda County reported world of cell yacht at Jack London Square The three-hour cruise By Mitch Rothbardt same week. the third largest increase in phones and includes a box lunch, birthday since 1995. SPECIAL TO THE FORUM shoplifting rates in 2022 (more computers, That means Bethany can cake, and the Plethos mystery Since then, the USS Potothan 250 reported incidents, a ast week I received the poor posture follow every cue and perform performance. Tickets are $95 mac Association, a nonprofit 10 percent increase over 2019), each exercise immaculately best compliment a per- and movefor adults, $55 for youths, and organization, has owned and putting them behind San Mament have in the gym, but if she forgets sonal trainer can get. $15 for children. operated the 165-foot vessel all that stuff when she leaves? One of our clients, we’ll call affected since then and provides cruises teo and San Francisco counties. The USS Potomac is a almost everyone. Here’s a little Nothing really changes. DA Price’s new team is her Bethany, mentioned that for students and the general historically preserved yacht secret (it’s not really a secret). last weekend she was able to expected to try and connect Bethany has been relentthat FDR used between 1936 public from April to Novemthe dots sooner, cooperate with pick her grandson - pain-free - If you have chronic pain, it’s lessly engaged in what she’s and 1945. Elvis Presley briefly ber. not about your age, it’s not for the first time in months. doing in the gym and has paid owned it, as did some drug More information about the police and sheriff resources, focus on the investigation, and extra attention to her posture This is the kind of thing that about the piece of paper you smugglers at one point. The USS Potomac and tickets for bent down to pick up, it’s about OUTSIDE THE GYM. specifically prosecute organreally matters. Port of Oakland took control of these shows can be found on your posture and movement. The cool thing is that she There’s nothing fancy here. the vessel, gave it a $5 million the website (usspotomac.org). ized retail theft crimes. Poor posture puts your body didn’t have to do any crazy When trying to get through workouts or diets to do it. She into compromised positions chronic pain, the basics are and that leads to pain. Poor just followed three powerful what will get you results, not but basic principles. Here they movement does the same thing. fancy exercises. And even if are: these things aren’t the complete Do you have back pain? Standard Synthetic Smog answer, they are absolutely Check your hips. Do they 1. Consistency. If you know Oil Change Oil Change Inspection going to be a huge part of it. move or do you round your me, you know how much I back? value consistency. It’s pretty Mitch is the owner and simple. If you don’t show up, Have shoulder pain? Check head trainer at Castro Valley nothing else matters. Bethany your shoulder blades. Are Fitness. He loves answering Includes Free brake & seasonal check up shows up. On time and ready you in a constant shrug? 3. questions at the dog park with to go. Penny, Max, and Tex most Engagement. 2-3 hours is the afternoons or at Mitch@Cas2. Good posture and move- most I’ll see someone in a given week. That means I don’t troValleyFitness.com. ment. In today’s sedentary
Oliver DeBonis (Acrobat)
USS: Cruise and Show
Feeling Pain? Three Powerful (But Basic) Principles for Pain
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