Community Calendar
Local Events, Meetings and More
Regular Government Meetings
• Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) generally meets on land-use issues at 6 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month, and holds general purpose meetings at 6 p.m. on most 3rd Mondays. Meetings are currently virtual at 6 p.m. For agenda, visit: acgov.org/bc/cvmac
• Castro Valley School Board meetings are currently virtual. For agenda, visit: https://www.cv.k12.ca.us/boarddocs/
• Castro Valley Sanitary District (CVSan) meets at 6:30p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month. Meetings are currently virtual: https://www.cvsan.org/who_we_are/board_of_directors/agendas_and_minutes.php
• Alameda County Board of Supervisors meets every Tuesday at 10:45 a.m. Meetings are currently virtual: https://www.acgov.org/agenda_minutes_app/board/bos_calendar/ag_min.jsp?subType=REG
Medi-Cal Eligibility & Home and Community Based Services
Do you need help with your medical costs? Medi-Cal is a government program that pays for health and medical care for adults aged 65+ or disabled individuals who have low income and limited resources. If eligible, Medi-Cal can help pay for ambulance services, dental care, doctor visits, hospice care, hospital and nursing home care, medical equipment and more.
Would you like to receive care and stay in your own home? The HCBS Waiver program recognizes that many individuals at risk of being placed in medical facilities can be better cared for in their homes and communities, preserving their independence and ties to family and friends.
At this FREE program, we’ll learn about:
• Medi-Cal eligibility for specific programs serving individuals
65 and older, and for individuals with disabilities
• Home and Community Based Services benefits covered by Medi-Cal
• Medi-Cal Recovery rules and exemptions
The program is FREE and no reservations are required. The Castro Valley Library is a branch of the Alameda County Library system. The Library is located at 3600 Norbridge Avenue and is wheel chair accessible.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly
Resolved to lose weight in 2025? Join TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) for the support you need to start your weight loss journey. TOPS is a non-profit weight loss support group. We meet on Fridays at 9:30 a.m. (doors open at 8:45 a.m.) at the United Methodist Church, 19806 Wisteria Street in Castro Valley. For more info contact Sandy Montero (510) 299-7312. Join us for fellowship and support. What do you have to lose?
Friends of the San Leandro Library Gift Bazaar
The Friends of the San Leandro Library will host a Gift Bazaar on Saturday, January 25th from 10am to 3pm at the San Leandro Main Library, 300 Estudillo Avenue, San Leandro. Shop a delightful selection of gifts: jewelry, scarves, puzzles, soaps, cozy socks, Hallmark-style books, and more. Show your love for your Valentine and your library! Find a little something for your loved ones (or treat yourself!) and help your library thrive. All proceeds benefit the San Leandro Library’s programs and services.
Poetry & Music at Adobe Art Center
Poetry & Music Adobe Art Center
20395 San Miguel Ave, Castro Valley
Saturday, January 25, 3-5pm
Poets - Bruce Roberts, Tony Pino, Anne Nichandros, Carol Henrie, Pat Doyne
Celtic Music by Margaret Davis & Kristoff Klover Open mike after the break - Free admission & parking
Stand-up Comic David Studebaker
Looking for a fun-filled Saturday night out? Stand-up comic David Studebaker performs at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts, Saturday, January 25, at 7:30pm. David describes himself as a comedian, author, host, and diaper-changer! He delights audiences with his special brand of comedy, blending music, personal stories, and pop culture into his interactive shows. “My goal is to take my audience out of their everyday worries and create our own little joyful, carefree realm—to just have fun and party for the night.”
David’s comedy can be heard on Sirius XM Radio in regular rotation and his new comedy special “The Oracle of Dry Bar” is available now on the Dry Bar Comedy streaming network. He has been featured on Fox, ABC, and the in the SF Chronicle and is a popular entertainer for corporate gigs for Facebook, Twitter, and Re/Max and many others. As a director, David won Best Director at the Oregon Documentary Film Festival for his hit docu-series David’s Ark, which has amassed millions of views on TikTok. As an author, David published his debut novel, a laugh-out-loud mystery, Lone Star Lance in 2020. The sequel comes out later this year. David lives with his wife, two boys and two dogs in Los Angeles.
James D. Creviston opens for David. James is a Navy veteran, writer, filmmaker, and host of the Clean Comedy Podcast. He is known for his clean, self-deprecating style. He has worked as a freelance screenwriter for such shows as Leathal Weapon, The Bachelor and The Bachelorette. James also lives in Los Angeles.
This evening of fun, fresh comedy is presented by the Castro Valley Arts Foundation in their 2024-25 Series. For tickets: cvartsfoundation.org or call: 510-889-8961. Free Parking. Handicap accommodations. 19501 Redwood Road, Castro Valley
Castro Valley City, Inc. Speaker Series
Alan Chamaro, Executive Vice President of Lowe’s Enterprises, will speak on “Attracting the Right Developers.” A native of Castro Valley, Mr. Chamaro will explain why developments happen in some communities and not others, and how a community can build a market.
This is the fifth in a series of presentations sponsored by Castro Valley City, Inc. The speakers will share their experiences in transforming cities for success in the future. The lecture is free and will be held at 2:00 pm at the Castro Valley School of Music at 20990 Redwood Road (across from BART). More information is available at castrovalleycity.com.
Eden Garden Club Meeting
The next meeting of the Eden Garden Club will be Monday, January 27th at 9:30am at Faith Lutheran Church, 20080 Redwood Road in Castro Valley. At 10:00am we will have a speaker, Jessica "Jyothika" Valluru. She is a UC Certified Master Gardener and believes in helping grow organic and chemical free produce. She specializes in growing nutrient dense foods and would like to share tips and tricks to make you a better gardener. She will also speak on propagation. Meetings are free and guests are always welcome. https://edengardenclub.com
Castro Valley Rotary Hosts Arash Aslami
Arash Aslami, Interim Dental Program Director, will provide insights from the Office of Dental Health at the Alameda County Public Health Department. A buffet lunch and the program take place at Redwood Canyon Golf Course (17007 Redwood Road, Castro Valley) from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. The buffet lunch is $20, and reservations must be made by 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 26 at castrovalleyrotary.org.
Bringing Nature Home
BRINGING NATURE HOME @ the Castro Valley Library
Tuesday, January 28, 2025
5:30 to 8 pm
* Free native wildflower seeds
* Native plant cutting and seed swap
* Free drawing to win a free native garden design consultation
* Light snacks and drinks provided
Join us to watch Doug Tallamy's talk, "Nature's Best Hope," followed by a discussion about what we would like to do to make the places we live, work and play welcome areas for birds, butterflies and bees; greener, healthier, and more beautiful cities for people; and how we can move forward to carry out our ideas.
If you have them, bring labelled native plants, seeds, or cuttings to share. Also, bring envelopes to take seed swap seeds home in, and plastic bags with wet paper towels in them to protect cuttings you have picked up.
This FREE meeting will be moderated by Kathy Kramer, founder of the Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour.
Questions? Email Sandra Nevala-Lee at greenthumbworks@hey.com or Kathy Kramer at Kathy@kathykramerconsulting.net.
Reservations are NOT required for this FREE event.
Bringing Nature Home
Bringing Nature Home - Tuesday January 28, 5:30-8pm at Castro Valley Library’s Chabot/Canyon Room, 3600 Norbridge Ave., Castro Valley
Watch Doug Tallamy’s talk, “Nature’s Best Hope” followed by a discussion about what we would like to do to welcome birds, butterflies and bees in our area, and how we can move forward to carry out our ideas. Free native wildflower seeds, and cuttings will be available. Light refreshments will be provided.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly
Resolved to lose weight in 2025? Join TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) for the support you need to start your weight loss journey. TOPS is a non-profit weight loss support group. We meet on Fridays at 9:30 a.m. (doors open at 8:45 a.m.) at the United Methodist Church, 19806 Wisteria Street in Castro Valley. For more info contact Sandy Montero (510) 299-7312. Join us for fellowship and support. What do you have to lose?
Broken Pencils: A Visit and Conversation with Author J.R. Rice
Broken Pencils: A Visit and Conversation with Author J.R. Rice
at Castro Valley Library
Saturday, February 1, 2025
12:30 pm to 2:00 pm
Join us as local, award winning author J.R. Rice comes to the Castro Valley Library to discuss his book Broken Pencils. The author will do a reading from his book as well a poetry performance and an author Q & A.
Broken Pencils tells the story of Jonah Tarver, a troubled Oakland teenager grappling with his parents' troubled marriage, his own mental disorder, and the weight of his best friend's death, embarks on a desperate quest to find meaning in life. On his eighteenth birthday, coinciding with his Senior prom, Jonah, along with his girlfriend Taniesha, his best friend Trevon, and a group of peers, spirals into a night of reckless indulgence in drugs and alcohol in the vibrant city of San Francisco. As tensions escalate and emotions run high, Jonah finds himself thrust into a gripping twelve-hour journey through the dark underbelly of San Francisco's nightlife, forever altering his perception of the world. Will Jonah uncover the purpose he so desperately seeks, or will he discover that life, like broken pencils, may have no point?
J.R. Rice is a Black man, writer, teacher, and spoken word artist, born and raised in Oakland, California. He has a B.A in Creative Writing and an English Education teaching credential from California State University of Long Beach. While studying abroad in Greece, he was mentored by the author, George Crane. His novel, Broken Pencils earned the 2024 Literary Titan Gold Book Award, 2024 Pencraft Summer Best Book Award winner for Young Adult Coming of Age Fiction, and the 2024 Hawthorne Prize Finalist for Best Fiction. To learn more about J.R. Rice, please visit his website at www.jrrice.com.
The Castro Valley Library is a branch of the Alameda County Library system and is located at 3600 Norbridge Avenue, Castro Valley. The Library is wheel chair accessible. An ASL interpreter will be provided with ten days’ notice. For more information, call the Library at 510-667-7900, or see Events at www.aclibrary.org/branches/csv.
Art Reception for Liz Berg and George Phillips
Art Reception for Liz Berg and George Phillips
Castro Valley Center for the Arts
Jazz with Susan Sarti and Bruce Cassady
1-3:00pm Public invited. Refreshments.
Castro Valley Reads 2025
Castro Valley Reads is an annual literary event that asks our residents to read and discuss the same book. It builds community by encouraging a thoughtful exchange of ideas and celebrates the joy of reading together. Castro Valley Reads is facilitated by the Castro Valley Library and generously funded by the Friends of the Castro Valley Library.
Registration for the 8th annual Castro Valley Reads begins today, and our special kick-off event takes place on Sunday, February 2 at 2 pm.
For 2025 we will be celebrating Mexican-American history and culture with a work of contemporary fiction called The House of Broken Angels by Luis Alberto Urrea.
The plot is simple enough. In his final days, beloved and ailing patriarch Miguel Angel de La Cruz, affectionately called Big Angel, has summoned his entire clan for one last legendary birthday party. But as the party approaches, his mother, nearly one hundred, dies, transforming the weekend into a farewell doubleheader.
The magic of this book comes in the telling. Imagine a tornado picking up speed as it whirls through and around each character dislodging and blending their memories, foibles, regrets, desires, and grief through rapid fire dialogues and interior monologues. As we learn tales that have passed into family lore, we are treated to a depiction of the de La Cruz family that is at turns tragic, bawdy, funny, joyful, and, ultimately, about love and grace.
“We need stories to understand ourselves, and we especially need to read stories about people who are different from ourselves. We need to open ourselves up to those stories and find ways of thinking of ‘others’ as having commonalities with ‘us,’” said Dawn Balestreri, Manager of the Castro Valley Library. “That’s the opportunity we’ve tried to provide with Castro Valley Reads for the past 8 years.”
Our Kick-Off Event is Sunday, February 2 from 2 pm to 3 pm (no registration required). You’ll learn more about the book and be able to pick up a free copy, while supplies last. You’ll also hear the beautiful music of Cascada de Flores. Please register for a discussion group online before you arrive.
Discussion group registration begins today. You can register for a Library-facilitated group or you can form your own group with three or more people. To learn more about discussion groups and to register, visit aclibrary.org/castro-valley-reads.
Through the beginning of April, in addition to discussion groups, we have a great line up of programs related to the themes of the book. And on Friday, April 11, featured author Luis Alberto Urrea will be joining us in person at the Douglas Morrisson Theatre for the Finale event.
The Castro Valley Library, a branch of the Alameda County Library system. The Library will provide an ASL interpreter for any event with at least seven working days’ notice. Please call 510-667-7900 or TTY 888-663-0660.
RCS Booster Club “All You Can Eat Crab and Tri Tip Dinner” and Auction
RCHS Booster Club President (Mrs.) Lea Leyva is excited about the February 8 “All You Can Eat Crab and Tri Tip Dinner” and Auction in the Bruce D. Johnson Gymnasium on the Middle School and High School Campus at 1000 Paseo Grande in San Lorenzo. Doors open at 4:00 P.M. The live auction will begin at 6:30 P.M.
Tickets are $75 each and can be purchased at https://form.jotform.com/223484568555165 ...
Auction items are being sought with all profits going into maintaining and expanding the athletic experiences for RCS students. Please contact Director of Athletics Scott Babinat at 510-317-8990 or Booster Club President Lea Leyva at 510-565-8596. Donated items can be picked up.
Castro Valley Orchestra Free Concert
Castro Valley Orchestra will open 2025 with a free concert on Sunday, February 9th at 2:00 PM at Castro Valley Center for the Arts, 19501 Redwood Rd., Castro Valley. The program will include works by Bizet, Humperdinck, and Mozart. Ross Gershenson, retired Fremont music teacher and member of the Oakland Symphony, will perform the Horn Concerto by Lee Actor. A reception to meet the soloist and members of the orchestra will immediately follow the concert.
SENIOR DRIVER TRAFFIC SAFETY SEMINAR
Stay safe…and save money! Registration has begun for the library’s popular senior driving program! Conducted by the California Highway Patrol, this seminar will include: Compensating for Age-Related Changes, Tune-Up Your Driving Skills, Rules of the Road, Safe Driving Tips; and more! Participants will receive a certificate for completing this FREE course which may lead to an insurance discount. You must be 65 or older to qualify. Registration is required for this FREE program. To register, call the Library Information Desk at 510-667-7900.
START SMART: TEEN DRIVER PROGRAM
The California Highway Patrol and the Castro Valley Library present Start Smart: Teen Driver Program. CHP officers will discuss traffic collision avoidance techniques, collision causing factors, driver/parent responsibilities, and seatbelt usage. Additionally, testimonies will be provided by officers who have investigated fatal collisions involving teens, and by family members who have lost love ones in traffic collisions. The Start Smart program is a driver safety education class which targets new and future licensed teenage drivers between the age of 15 - 19 and their parents/guardians. A parent/guardian is required to attend the class with their teen. Registration is required for this FREE program. To register, call the Library Information Desk at 510-667-7900 or register online at www.aclibrary.org
“Beyond Recognition” A Film Screening and Conversation
After decades struggling to protect her ancestor’s burial places, a native woman and her allies occupy a sacred site to protect its desecration. Attend this screening of this short documentary, as it explores the quest to preserve one’s culture and homeland. RSVP to this free event at https://cvace.link/beyondrecognition. The screening will be held in the multipurpose room at Castro Valley Adult & Career Education, 4430 Alma Avenue, from 6:30- 8:00 pm.
San Leandro Garden Club Meeting
The San Leandro Garden Club will meet on Tuesday January 21 at 10:30 a.m. at the Marina Community Center, 15301 Wicks Blvd., San Leandro. The speaker this month is Martine La Belle, a member of the East Bay Rose Society. Please join us.
Plethos' Soiree & Fammy Awards
Plethos Productions is hosting its 8th Annual Season Announcement Soiree and Fammy Awards ceremony Saturday, January 18 @7pm at JP’s Restaurant and Bar. Looking for a last minute gift? Look no further than giving the experiential gift of a lively night full of live singing, dancing, and comedy performances.
Attendees will be the first to hear about Plethos’ 2025 lineup from mainstage and comedy shows to special events, auditions and more, plus an exclusive BOGO offer on season subscriptions. Get ready to party with a fun night full of games, prizes, and karaoke plus their illustrious and coveted Fammy Awards!
Awarded to 5 standout cast and crew members from their 2024 seasons, these prestigious accolades bring with them the drama of theatre as winners are announced and teary acceptance speeches are given to an enraptured crowd of peers and attendees. Delicious JP's food and drinks will be available to purchase and enjoy throughout the show. Seating is limited, so run don't walk to plethos.org and score your soiree tickets now!
CV Library Math Festival
Visit the Castro Valley Library for an afternoon of play and problem-solving at the Julia Robinson Mathematics Festival. At the festival, children and families will have the opportunity to explore a variety of fun, hands-on math puzzles and games. Activities are designed for children (and adults) of all ages and backgrounds, so everyone is welcome. Drop in and drop out whenever you’d like. Whether you stay for one puzzle or join us for the entire festival, we’re looking forward to seeing you for a day of joyful math!
The Castro Valley Library is a branch of the Alameda County Library system. The library is located at 3600 Norbridge Avenue and is wheelchair accessible. The library will provide an ASL interpreter for any event with at least seven working days’ notice. Please call 510-667-7900 or TTY 888-663-0660 or email castrovalley@aclibrary.org.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly
Resolved to lose weight in 2025? Join TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) for the support you need to start your weight loss journey. TOPS is a non-profit weight loss support group. We meet on Fridays at 9:30 a.m. (doors open at 8:45 a.m.) at the United Methodist Church, 19806 Wisteria Street in Castro Valley. For more info contact Sandy Montero (510) 299-7312. Join us for fellowship and support. What do you have to lose?
Castro Valley Rotary Hosts Bill Monsen
Bill Monsen, Principal of Monsen Energy Consulting Group LLC, will speak to the Rotary Club of Castro Valley on “Uncovering some of the mysteries of the electric utility system that is so critical to all of us.” A buffet lunch and the program take place at Redwood Canyon Golf Course (17007 Redwood Road, Castro Valley) from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. The buffet lunch is $20, and reservations must be made by 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 12 at castrovalleyrotary.org.
AARP Tax Assistance
AARP Tax Assistance at the Castro Valley Library
Wednesdays & Thursdays, February 05 - April 10, 2025
AARP Tax-Aide returns to the Castro Valley Library for appointment-only, on-site tax preparation on Wednesdays and Thursdays starting February 5, 2025 through April 10, 2025. No walk-ins are permitted. The Library will start taking appointments on Monday, January 13, 2025, by phone or in person. AARP will only be preparing taxes for tax years 2023 and 2024. Other exclusions apply.
Please contact the library to learn about exclusions to tax preparation for the tax year 2024.
Appointments are limited.
A.R.T, Inc. Members' Art Exhibition
A.R.T, Inc. is having a Members’ Art Exhibition this Saturday, January 11, 2025, from 3 to 5pm at the Adobe Art Gallery (20395 San Miguel Ave., Castro Valley). There will be 10 Cash Prizes. Judge Andrew Johnstone.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly
Resolved to lose weight in 2025? Join TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) for the support you need to start your weight loss journey. TOPS is a non-profit weight loss support group. We meet on Fridays at 9:30 a.m. (doors open at 8:45 a.m.) at the United Methodist Church, 19806 Wisteria Street in Castro Valley. For more info contact Sandy Montero (510) 299-7312. Join us for fellowship and support. What do you have to lose?
Gary Howard to Give Free Lecture
Author Gary Howard will ring in the New Year with a free lecture, The Biology of Us, on Tuesday, January 7, at 7:00 pm in the Exhibition Room at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts (19501 Redwood Road). Howard’s talk and latest book show us how biology and nature are hidden in plain sight in our urban environment, just as amazing as the organisms found in the Serengeti or the Galapagos Islands!
Talking to Howard, it is clear that he has many interests and lots of energy. First, he is a scientist through and through, with many publications to his name. Howard earned a PhD in biological sciences from Carnegie Mellon University and completed fellowships at Harvard University and John Hopkins University. His previous books include (2021) and Imaging Life (2014), and several more written with co-authors. For 22 years, Howard was a science editor and writer for the Gladstone Institutes in San Francisco.
Second, Howard is deeply invested in our community. He is in his 12th year of serving on the Castro Valley School Board. “I’m particularly proud of the Wellness Center and medical clinic and the Spanish Language Immersion program. In fact, more than 50 different languages are spoken in the homes of our students.” He is currently the Chair-Elect for the Castro Valley/ Eden Area Chamber of Commerce. In addition, he has taken an active role in supporting cityhood for Castro Valley. Howard and his wife Shirley are long-time residents of Castro Valley. Reserve your seats: https://www.cvcfa.com/events
Take Off Pounds Sensibly
Resolved to lose weight in 2025? Join TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) for the support you need to start your weight loss journey. TOPS is a non-profit weight loss support group. We meet on Fridays at 9:30 a.m. (doors open at 8:45 a.m.) at the United Methodist Church, 19806 Wisteria Street in Castro Valley. For more info contact Sandy Montero (510) 299-7312. Join us for fellowship and support. What do you have to lose?
Morrisson Theatre Chorus Holiday Concert
The Morrisson Theatre Chorus returns for a joyous holiday concert on Friday and Saturday December 13 and 14 at 8pm and Sunday December 15 at 2pm, at the Douglas Morrisson Theater. This unforgettable night of uplifting music is sure to raise spirits and spark the holiday mood. Cesar Cancino directs and entertains with his informative and witty comments about the musical selections and talented solo performers. Don't miss this night of glorious music and fun.
Tickets can be purchased at the HARD offices (1009 E St. Hayward) or online at haywardrec.org/theater. Call 510-881-6700 for assistance if needed. Tickets will not be available at the door.
The Douglas Morrison Theater is located at 22311 Third St. Hayward.
Chabot College Jazz Ensemble Holiday Concert
Chabot College (Chabot) is excited to present their Holiday Big Band Concert on December 12, 2024, at 7pm at the Reed L. Buffington Visual & Performing Arts Center, Building 1300, at 25555 Hesperian Boulevard in Hayward, CA.
The performance features Chabot College Jazz Ensemble, directed by Jon Palacio Jr., and will include Filipino-born American singer guest artist Ellona Santiago and actress, singer-songwriter, and recording artist April Absynth.
The Chabot College Jazz Ensemble is Chabot’s top multi-award winning student jazz group that consists primarily of music majors. The ensemble finished in the top five amongst two-year schools at a 2006 and 2007 national jazz festival in Reno, Nevada. The Jazz Band was also invited to compete with top four-year schools in the country at the Next Generation's Festival 2006.
“We are so excited to have an event that will highlight the best of Chabot’s Jazz Band along with amazing, featured artists,” said Director Jon Palacio Jr. “It will be a holiday big band extravaganza that everyone will truly enjoy.”
Guest artist Ellona Rano Santiago comes from a background singing since the age of three, early professional vocal training, and many professional contests. She also placed 6th out of 16 finalists and thousands of auditionees on the XFactor after being mentored by Demi Lovato. Ellona is also a passionate advocate for children in need, serving as an ambassador for Project Resoled, a nonprofit that provides refurbished shoes to impoverished children in developing countries.
Guest artist April Absynth comes with experience in not only singing but also TV, film, and theater acting with performances in Blindspotting, Lumpia with a Vengeance, Miss Saigon and Thoroughly Modern Millie. April performs as a professional singer around the country with her electro-pop duo No Rest Till Death.
With talented guest artists and Chabot’s Jazz Ensemble, you won't want to miss this exciting concert that is sure to get you in the mood for the holidays!
Ticket prices vary between $10 for general admission and $15 for livestream and can be purchased online at PurplePass.com. Doors open at 6:30PM. For additional questions, email Jon Palacio at jpalacio@chabotcollege.edu.
Chabot’s PAC is host to many community events and other world-class talent. For more information, visit The Chabot College Performing Arts Complex.
Homework Center Volunteer Orientation
The Castro Valley Library is looking for dedicated and enthusiastic High School student volunteers, just a few hours a week, for its after-school Homework Assistance Center. Are you looking for community service hours or need some job experience for your resume? Sign up for hours and help students tackle their homework, gain valuable experience, and have fun.
Contact the Castro Valley Library at 510-667-7900 for more information.
Start Smart: Teen Driver Program
The California Highway Patrol and the Castro Valley Library present Start Smart: Teen Driver Program. CHP officers will discuss traffic collision avoidance techniques, collision causing factors, driver/parent responsibilities, and seatbelt usage. Additionally, testimonies will be provided by officers who have investigated fatal collisions involving teens, and by family members who have lost love ones in traffic collisions.
The Start Smart program is a driver safety education class which targets new and future licensed teenage drivers between the age of 15 - 19 and their parents/guardians.
A parent/guardian is required to attend the class with their teen.
Registration is required for this FREE program. To register, call the Library Information Desk at 510-667-7900 or register online at www.aclibrary.org
CV Rotary Hosts The Madrigals
The Madrigals, the premier acapella chorus from Castro Valley High School, will visit our Club. The Madrigals will perform between 1:00 and 1:15 pm.
A buffet lunch and the program take place at Redwood Canyon Golf Course (17007 Redwood Road, Castro Valley) at 12:00-1:30 p.m. The buffet lunch is $20, and reservations must be made by 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 8, at castrovalleyrotary.org (Upcoming Events banner).
California State Job Fair
Assemblymember Liz Ortega is pleased to co-host a Bay Area California State Job Fair with Assemblymember Alex Lee and the California Department of Human Resources. This will be an opportunity to explore how you can transform your passions into a rewarding career with the State of California.
A range of state departments and agencies will be in attendance to offer information on a variety of career pathways. The Work for California team will also be on-site to provide personalized assistance on the application process.
The event will take place Monday, December 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Fremont Downtown Event Center (3500 Capitol Ave. Fremont, CA 94538).
Help Us Make a Pollinator Garden
Faith Lutheran Church, Castro Valley is converting a portion of its lawn into a pollinator garden highway! We could sure use your help in laying cardboard, spreading mulch and beautifying our property along Redwood Road. Wear your grubby pants, bring a pair of gloves, and let’s invite more pollinators into our community! Event is December 8, 11am, at 20080 Redwood Rd, Castro Valley.
St. Gerard Women’s Club Christmas Bake Sale
Christmas baked goods sale fundraiser for St. John’s Church in San Lornzo. There will also be trinkets and treasures, continental breakfast, raffles, religious items, miscellaneous goods and lots of fun. It will all begin this Saturday, Dec. 7 from 4pm to 6pm and again on Sunday, Dec. 8 from 8am to 4pm. St. John’s Community Meeting Room (264 East Lewelling Blvd., San Lorenzo).
Pearl Harbor Day Remembrance Ceremony
Pearl Harbor Day Remembrance Ceremony Saturday, December 7 at Castro Valley Veterans Memorial. Ceremony starts at 10am. Navy Veteran will speak about a Forgotten Battleship USS Utah.
Friends of San Leandro Library Cookbook Sale
The Friends of the San Leandro Library will host a Cookbook Sale on Saturday, December 7th (10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m.) at the San Leandro Main Library, 300 Estudillo Avenue, San Leandro. Hundreds of beautiful books featuring cuisines from around the world will be featured. From the basic how-to to elegant dining recipes, these books originally sold for as much as $50 but will be sale-priced for much less. It’s a great time to start your holiday shopping with quality cookbooks at bargain prices. All proceeds benefit the San Leandro Library’s programs and services. We now accept credit cards!
CV United Methodist Women's Holiday Tea & Boutique
Castro Valley United Methodist Women's
Holiday Tea and Boutique
Castro Valley United Methodist Church
19806 Wisteria St.
Castro Valley, CA 94546
Boutique Hours: 10 am - 4 pm
Tea Seatings: 11 am & 1 pm - Tickets $25
Tea Reservations contact karen.loughrige@yahoo.com or the church office @ (510) 581-3486
Friends of the CV Library Indoor Book Sale
The Friends of the Castro Valley Library will hold an indoor book sale December 6 - 8 at the Library, 3600 Norbridge Ave., in Castro Valley. Sale times are as follows:
Friday December 6th - 6 to 8 p.m. Member preview. Memberships will be available at the door, or you can join any time by visiting the bookstore or our website.
Saturday December 7th - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Check the December 4th Forum for our $2 coupon, good on Saturday only.
Sunday December 8th - 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Fill a Bag day. Fill a standard grocery bag for $5.
We will have all categories of books available: fiction, mystery, children’s books, most genres of nonfiction, DVDs, music CDs, audiobooks, jigsaw puzzles, games, and lots of miscellaneous items, all at bargain prices. We will also have a selection of antiquarian, special price, and gift quality books. This is a great way to do your Christmas shopping! Cash, checks, and credit cards accepted. Proceeds pay for library programs and amenities that would not otherwise be possible.
H.A.R.D. Holiday Lights!
H.A.R.D. Holiday Lights! Mt. Eden Mansion
Tuesday, December 3, 2024
Celebrate the season with an enchanting time at our historical mansions as we transform them with dazzling lights! Join us for one (or all three!) of the free, family-friendly mansion-lighting events. Enjoy live entertainment, and dance along to festive music. Delight in crafts, and cozy refreshments to get the holiday spirit glowing. Mt. Eden Mansion will be open for tours.
Other Mansion Lighting Events
December 4 - McConaghy House
18701 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward
December 5 - Meek Mansion (Open for tours!)
240 Hampton Rd., Hayward
Rotary Club's Festive Holiday Lunch
Holiday gift wrapping. Join Rotary Club of Castro Valley for a festive holiday lunch with a purpose at Redwood Canyon Golf Course (17007 Redwood Road, Castro Valley) from 12:00 to 1:30 p.m. In true Rotary spirit, we’ll wrap gifts to bring cheer to those in need while enjoying good food, great company, and plenty of holiday fun. The buffet lunch is $20, and reservations must be made by 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 1, at castrovalleyrotary.org (Upcoming Events banner). Bring your wrapping skills—or just a willingness to help—and join the holiday spirit of service and fellowship!
Betty Loeffler Art Reception
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 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.
The Goodness of Sleep
Join us 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!
About the presenter: 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 also was part of a team that conducted SIDS research at Stanford. Within the medical device industry, she managed clinical research projects and worked with marketing teams to develop educational programs and literature. She has authored numerous publications, book chapters, and research-focused abstracts and lectures on a variety of sleep-related topics.
Registration is required. For information about this and other events, visit www.aclibrary.org or call 510/667-7900.
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 Eurasia from West to East.
No tickets required; donations accepted.
https://sonostemp.org/index.html
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 10:00 we 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. https://edengardenclub.com
Soroptimist of the East Bay 19th Annual Holiday Boutique
Soroptimist of the East Bay will hold its 19th Annual Holiday Boutique on 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, handcrafted cards, woodworking, pampered chef, pottery, knitted/crocheted items, raffle prizes, 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 information, please contact Donna Whitehouse at: 510-999-2911 or at: rambosmom@comcast.net
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.