On February 4, Jason S. Matthews, MDRT, President and CEO of Matthews Financial & Insurance Solutions and Gibson Monroe Wealth Advisors, spoke on navigating financial strategies under Trump’s tax policies. He emphasized how changes in federal and state administrations can significantly affect tax liabilities and discussed strategies to minimize their impact.  The presentation concluded with a lively discussion, as attendees explored the potential impacts of shifting tax policies and shared strategies for adapting to financial changes.

Whiskey Dinner Fundraiser

-> Reserve your seat today <-

Get ready for an evening of fine whiskey paired with gourmet food, and community impact!

Tickets are now on sale for the Whiskey Dinner Fundraiser, happening on February 22, 2025, at The Breakfast Club at Midtown here in Castro Valley at the Village Shopping Center. Proceeds from the event will benefit Rotary Club of Castro Valley and the Castro Valley Sports Foundation, supporting vital community programs and youth sports in Castro Valley.

Seats are limited, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting event. Invite your friends, colleagues, and anyone who enjoys great whiskey and great company!

What to Expect:

  • Expert-Led Whiskey Tasting: Featuring 4 private single barrel whiskeys, paired with gourmet dishes. Jason Lujick of Oakland Whiskey Library will lead us through his personal single barrel picks:
    • Whistle Pig Piggyback Rye OWL single barrel
    • Elijah Craig Bourbon OWL single barrel
    • Starward Single Malt OWL single barrel
    • Westward Single Malt Stout finished single barrel
  • Passed Appetizers: Lamb Lollipops, Candied bacon, scallion deviled eggs and Amaretto roasted figs, goat cheese, peppercress on crostini.
  • Plated Dinner: Dual Entrée of Coq au vin, bacon lardons, pearl onions, mushrooms and Braised beef short ribs.
  • Live Jazz: Enjoy a talented jazz duo during the reception hour
  • Silent Auction: Bid on unique items from local businesses and select bottles.

Thank you for supporting our mission to make a difference in our community. We can’t wait to see you there!

We are grateful for our Master Distiller Sponsors for this event:

 

@thebreakfastclubatmidtown | @blue_heron_catering | @oaklandwhiskeylibrary
Castro Valley Rotary
Restaurant Walk 2024:
A Night to Savor and Celebrate Community
 
On the evening of August 13, 2024, downtown Castro Valley buzzed with excitement as locals and visitors alike gathered for the annual Rotary Club of Castro Valley Restaurant Walk. This beloved event, running from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, transformed our town into a vibrant hub of culinary delight, where participants strolled from one eatery to another, sampling mouthwatering dishes prepared specially for the occasion.

With 21 local restaurants and businesses participating, attendees were treated to a diverse array of flavors, from the savory BBQ of Canyon’s Barbeque and Akemi Sushi to the artisanal treats at Always Your Bakery and Beard Papa’s. Each stop offered something unique, highlighting the rich culinary culture of our community.

The event wasn’t just about food—it was about coming together to support vital local causes. Thanks to the generosity of our participants and the incredible support from our sponsors, all proceeds from the Restaurant Walk went to support local charities and community projects for the George Marks House, CALICO Children's Center, and SquadClub345.

This year’s event was made possible by the generous sponsorship of local businesses, including Sutter Health, Fremont Bank, and Classy Canine’s Wiggle Rumps, among others. Their contributions, along with the dedication of countless volunteers, ensured that the evening was not only enjoyable but also a great success for the community.  Aaron Lewis, the event organizer, captured the spirit of the evening perfectly: "I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who helped make the 2024 Castro Valley Club Restaurant Walk a success. Your hard work and dedication truly made a difference!" 

As the sun set and the last samples were savored, the spirit of Rotary International’s motto, “Service Above Self,”  was evident in every smiling face and satisfied stomach. The Castro Valley Rotary Club continues to be a pillar of community support, and events like the Restaurant Walk are a testament to what we can achieve when we come together.

We invite all who share our passion for community service to consider joining the Castro Valley Rotary Club. Whether you’re a foodie, a local business owner, or someone who simply loves to give back, there’s a place for you in our club. Together, we can continue to make a difference—one delicious bite at a time.  Our Club gathers for lunch and outstanding local speakers Tuesdays at noon in the Redwood Canyon Golf Club.  Learn more at castrovalleyrotary.org
Join us for a delightful evening of food, fund, and community!  The Restaruant Walk is an exciting event where participants can sample delicious offerings from a 21 local restaurants and businesses (Click here to see participating restaurants and businesses and sponsors). 
Stroll through our beautiful town, savor unique flavors, and enjoy special dishes prepared just for this event.
 
All proceeds support local charities and community projects (George Marks House, CALICO, and Squadclub345).  Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to indulge in great food while supporting good causes.
 
Purchase your Ticket Books today.
Cost is $40 per book.
 
Contact
Aaron Lewis
alsplace2013@gmail.com or 510.283.3760
Misti Short
Day of the Event Purchase
Rotary Information Booth
Philz Coffee - 3359 Castro Valley Blvd. 
No online ticket sales.
Natalie Wong, Owner of Always Yours Bakery, is inducted into the Rotary Club of Castro Valley on July 23, 2024
Picutred (L-R) are Ceta Dochterman, Natalie's Rotary Sponsor; Michelle Biche, Membership Co-chair; Natalie Wong; Misti Short, Membership Chair & President-Elect; and Dan Willits, President.
Photo by Jim Negri
In December 2021, after a successful Kickstarter campaign that raised $93,000, Natalie opened "Always Yours Bakery" here in Castro Valley (20634 Rustic Drive in Castro Valley Village). Her venture quickly became a beloved staple in our community, enriching our local culture with its delightful offerings and warm, inviting atmosphere.

Natalie's journey from a corporate professional to a cherished local entrepreneur embodies the Rotary values of service, leadership, and community building. Her ability to inspire through her actions, to innovate in the pursuit of her passion, and to contribute positively to the community aligns with the very principles we uphold. It is these qualities—her dedication, entrepreneurial spirit, and community focus—that make her an exceptional candidate for our club.
 
Read more about Natalie and the full induction ceremony here.
 
Natalie receives her Rotary pin from Ceta Dochterman, her Rotary Sponsor.
President Dan Willits' offical President's pin.
Membership Co-chairs Michelle Biche presents Natalie her Membership Certificate.
Recent Club Events
Highlights ~ News ~ Activities
 
Aisha Knowles was raised in Hayward, California, and currently resides in Ashland (unincorporated San Leandro). She has an impressive career in public service, having served as the information officer for the Alameda County Fire Department for 15 years. For the past five years, she has continued her dedicated work as the information officer for the Fremont Fire Department.
 
Her Rotary journey began when she was introduced to the San Leandro Rotary by Fire Chief Bill McCammon. Aisha's commitment and leadership were quickly recognized, and she served as the president of the San Leandro Rotary not only once, but twice. Additionally, she was the endowment president for nearly 4 years. Aisha also made significant contributions to youth development by working with Interact students, teaching safety training, and acting as a leadership liaison for about five years.
 
In addition to her Rotary achievements, Aisha is deeply involved in our local community. She is a board member of the Castro Valley Eden Area Chamber, where she continues to make a positive impact. Aisha describes herself as a lifelong student and volunteer, always eager to learn and give back.
Rotary Club
of Castro Valley
Chartered
June 16, 1953
 
Dan Willits, President 
 
Contact information
https://castrovalleyrotary.org/
President@castrovalleyrotary.com
510.500.5667
 
Mailing Address
P.O. Box 2117
Castro Valley, CA 94546
 
Hybrid Lunch Meetings
Tuesdays at 12:00-1:30 pm
  • Except 3rd Tuesday of the month for Social Mixer at 5:30 pm - see monthly calendar for details
In Person 
The Meadows Restaurant at 
Redwood Canyon Golf Course
17007 Redwood Road 
Castro Valley, CA 94546
Via Zoom
Please click on the Zoom link embedded in the weekly meeting invite.
 
  Venue Map      
 
 
Club Executives & Directors
President
President Elect
Secretary
Treasurer
Past President
Director
Director
Director
Director
February 2025
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Upcoming Events
Birthdays & Anniversaries
Member Birthdays:
  • Todd Anglin
    February 10
  • Aisha Knowles
    February 16
  • Obse Lubo
    March 18
Anniversaries:
  • John McPartland
    Maria McPartland
    February 2
  • Brian Morrison
    Denise MORRISON
    March 16