Our most recent Castro Valley Rotary meeting showcased the profound impact of partnership—demonstrating how technology, when guided by clear-eyed leadership and Rotary’s global network, can bridge critical gaps in safety and health.
Castro Valley Open Miniature Golf Championship
The Rotary Club of Castro Valley is thrilled to announce its 1st Annual Miniature Golf Club Championship on May 19, 2026, at Golden Tee Golfland (2533 Castro Valley Blvd., Castro Valley) starting at 5:30 p.m. This new event promises to become one of the Club’s most anticipated traditions, bringing together Rotarians, families, friends, colleagues and community members for an evening of spirited competition and community fun. Participants will enjoy beer, wine, soft drinks, and delicious food provided by Canyons Barbecue, creating the perfect atmosphere for friendly rivalry on the miniature golf course.
Prizes will be awarded to the top finishers and the evening’s champion will receive the event’s highest honor, the Golden Putter, a perpetual trophy that will be passed down annually to future champions. The $20 entry fee includes the 18-hole tournament, hors d'oeuvre appetizers, two (2) drink tickets. Guests are definitely welcome.
Castro Valley Rotary Club Lunch Meeting was a special occasion, abuzz with energy as members gathered to celebrate individual dedication, invest in local culture, and take an inspiring look at the history of our beloved town. Castro Valley Rotary honored John McPartland as a Paul Harris Fellow and awarded a $1,000 grant to the Castro Valley Arts Foundation to support local culture. The meeting also featured Ken Carbone, who shared the inspiring story of restoring the historic Flying A Service Station into a vibrant community landmark. It was a powerful afternoon celebrating service, the arts, and our town’s unique history.
Last week’s meeting honored the long-term commitment of our members, including Randy Vanderbilt for 21 years of service, Roland Williams and Ceta Dochterman for 16 years of service, and Virginia Degner for 17 years of service.. We also welcomed the President of the Boston University Rotaract Club, highlighting Rotary’s global reach among young professionals. Finally, Nimone Li‑Hardisty, CEO of Forestr.org, shared how her nonprofit’s "clean, green, and glean" initiatives provided 20,000 pounds of food to local banks last year while improving Castro Valley’s urban resilience.
Serving Thanksgiving Lunch to Local Seniors
On November 26th, Rotary Club of Castro Valley once again partnered with the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (H.A.R.D.) to provide and serve a Thanksgiving lunch for local seniors at the Kenneth C. Atkins Senior Center in Castro Valley and the Hayward Area Senior Center. Rotarian Carol Bigelow once again coordinated the event with H.A.R.D. and Rotarian volunteers has she has done for many special lunch
program at the Senior Centers.
program at the Senior Centers.
Rotarians Support the Salvation Army
Red Kettle Program
On Saturday, November 22nd, Rotarians handled bell ringing duties for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Program in front of Philz Coffee. Rotarians will return on December 10th and 17th.(Left - Right): Aisha Knowles, President Misti Short, Paulette Johnson, Carol Bigelow, and Dwight Perry.
Rotary Honors Veterans on Veterans Day
On November 11th, the Club honored Rotarians and members of Rotarian families who are veterans. The program also included (1) an inspiring video regarding the events leading up to the writing of The Star-Spangled Banner that concluded with the audience singing the song and (2) a slide presentation recognizing Club members and family members who are veterans or active duty service members.
Photo (L-R): Rotarian Gary Howard, Visiting Rotarian (Dublin) Bob Tucknott, Rotarian Dwight Perry, Rotarian Jerome Blaha, Rotarian John McPartland, Lester Mensinger (husband of Rotarian Michelle Biche), Rotarian Gary Bosley, and Mike Semmelmeyer (son of Rotarian Craig Semmelmeyer) -- Photo by Jim Negri
President Misti Short being interviewed during KTVU's Zip Trips to Castro Valley on August 1. Photos by Ken Carbone.
Rotarian Ye Ye, owner of Beard Papa's in the Castro Valley Marketplace, being interviews on KTVU Zip Trips.
Service Above Self
Castro Valley, CA 94546
United States of America