On December 16, the Castro Valley Rotary Club hosted their annual Children’s Christmas Party for kids and families living in shelters and other housing programs. CV Rotarian Mark Poniatowski chaired the event – continuing a remarkable 35-year tradition – with the support of fellow Rotarians and the Castro Valley community.
The party was held at the Castro Valley Adult School Multipurpose Room, which was transformed into a festive holiday celebration by members of the CV Rotary Club. Decorations were organized by Rotarian Carol Bigelow and beautifully arranged by Shirley Bertinuson assisted by CV Rotarian Daniel Soohoo.
Guests were warmly greeted by Program Chair Mark Poniatowski, “Aldo a la mode” – Clown Rotarian Al Proietti -- and other Rotarians, all set to the cheerful sounds of Christmas music. Gifts were wrapped by the students at Redwood Christian High School (RCHS), many of whom also volunteered at the event – entertaining children with face painting, making balloon animals, arts and crafts, games and joyful interaction throughout the afternoon.
Santa’s Helper, CV Rotarian Ceta Dochterman, along with Santa’s Elves – Head Elf Lola Hamill and Austin Beck, Donovan Cortez and Sam Ryan – made sure Santa always had a gift ready for every child. RCHS students who provided face painting, balloon animals and toys, coloring and playing games with the children were Alex Clayton, Austin Beck, Donovan Cortez, Christabel Francis, Lola Hamill, Jolene Ho, Sam Ryan, Hannah Sautter, Claire War, Quintin Warneke and SaMiyah Whitaker.
More than 50 children and adults joined more than 25 Rotarians and community volunteers, all working together to ensure the 2025 Children’s Christmas Party as welcoming and “kid-friendly” as possible.
A hearty, holiday meal was prepared by “Chef” Randy Vanderbilt, along with fellow CV Rotarians Cathy Catanho, Virginia Degner, Marco Jaramillo, Dan Willits and Gary Wolfe. The menu included ham, turkey, fruit, mixed vegetables, mac ‘n’ cheese, rolls and butter, cranberry sauce, and three varieties of pie – apple, pumpkin and pecan -- served with whip cream. They were assisted by lead Lorenzo C. Grayson and Castro Valley Sanitary District staff members Dominick Gates, Naomi Lue and Annie Lee.
Santa made a dramatic entry as by fire engine sirens and flashing red lights announced that his sleigh had once again broken down! Thanks to the Alameda Fire Department, Santa and his Helper were transported to the party just in time. Children rushed outside chanting “Santa! Santa! Santa!” as Santa stepped off the fire engine, greeted by cheers, laughter, and plenty of Santa hugs.
Each of the children received an age-appropriate gift and warm encouragement from Santa and his Helper. Gifts were provided through the California Highway Patrol Toy Drive, overseen by CHP Officer Jennifer Pabst, who serves as our local Public Information Officer.
In addition to 2024-25 Castro Valley Rotary Club President Misti Short and 2025-26 Club President Craig Semmelmeyer, other Rotarians serving at Children's Christmas Party included Jerome Blaha, April Chan, Pastor Austin Foxworthy, Bruce D Johnson, Dwight Perry, Ray Wallace and Connie Willits. CV Rotarian Jim Negri photographed the entire event. Community volunteers Brenda Bigongiari, Leslie Poniatowski, Sharon Semmelmeyer, and Rich Zollner also provided invaluable support.
Children’s Party Chair Mark Poniatowski stated “each year involves different children and their parents, yet the atmosphere is always the same. Our guests are always so respectful and considerate, and the joy they bring continues to touch everyone in attendance.”
Special thanks to Castro Valley Unified School District Superintendent Nia Rashidchi and Beth Cutter and her staff for hosting this special event every year; the students of Redwood Christian High School; the Castro Valley Fire Department; CHP Officer Jennifer Pabst and the California Highway Patrol; the Castro Valley Sanitary District; community members; and the many Castro Valley Rotarians who continue to unselfishly model ‘Service Above Self.’
