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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

MistiShortCakes@gmail.com or 510.583.7297

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.

Aisha Knowles Inducted as New Member

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.