Thanking Billy Bradford

In last week’s forum Billy Bradford thanked the Castro Valley community for their long time support, prior to his move to Mexico. I would like to thank him back for all that he has given to Castro Valley.
Billy Bradford has been such an asset to this community. He has done so much volunteering in various ways for the last 16 or so years. Besides his Bad Business Model Bikes in which he repaired and gave away bikes to people who couldn’t afford a new bike, he could often be found at the CV Center for the Arts. He volunteers there in whatever capacity they need him.
When his son played baseball at CVHS , Billy announced the games. Then his son attended Chabot College , and Billy became the announcer there. When his son moved on, Billy went back to CV High and has been the voice of Trojan baseball ever since.
He also started doing DJ work for any group or school that asked. He did family dances, field days, Ed Foundation events and Sports Foundation events.
All these things he did because they brought him joy. He made no money for giving his time and expertise.
In 2010, some CVHS kids reached out to him to help them put on a Pride event. These were kids who had been marginalized and maybe even made to feel invisible until Billy got involved. Now they proudly display their identity at the annual Pride event at the high school every year. It is a joyful event.
By the time you read this, Billy Bradford and his wife, Ari, will be on their way to their new home in Mexico. I, for one, will miss his kindness and generosity. I hope they find happiness in their new life.
Thank you, Billy Bradford.

–Jessica Barrett, Castro Valley