Something Fishy in Castro Valley

Your Boulevardier decided to walk the length of Castro Valley Boulevard this morning, beginning at Strobridge Avenue and finishing at Center Street. It was decided, for no particular reason, to walk on the north side of the street. It was revealed that our boulevard has fishy bookends.

The westmost bookend we encountered was Connie's Pond and Garden store. Your Boulevardier has walked by many times but never stopped in. Today was no exception -- the store was closed -- but there was plenty to see. Including these lunkers, who live in the window and are well over a foot long. Your Boulevardier does not know what type of fish they are; could a helpful reader chime in?



Continuing eastbound, the walking was pleasant for the most part. A few people were out and about, filling their gas tanks, topping off their caffeine, going to religious services. Yet another dog spa was noticed, this one called Classy Canine Dog Salon. (Your Boulevardier previously noted the opening of Pawsitive Karma.) Some less-pleasant encounters were made -- for example, the vacant storefront next to the Valley Inn will never be leased as long as the tavern lets its inebriated patrons vomit in its doorway.

Some motorists were too busy talking on their mobile phones to watch for pedestrians, but such is the hazard of being a true Boulevardier.

The Pistache and Ginko trees in front of the Safeway at Redwood Road and Castro Valley Boulevard put on a lovely autumn display. And work continues, albeit at a slow pace, on the new diner. A stop at Rudy's was made.

Your Boulevardier made a stop at the second fishy bookend, The Castro Valley Sportsmen's Center. Although it must be admitted that the redworms purchased were for use in the compost bin at Chez Boulevardier, and not for use in angling. Your Boulevardier paused a moment to admire the large stingray (long dead and recreated in fibreglass) hanging from the ceiling.

Now walking with two paper sacks -- one containing redworms, one containing donuts -- Your Boulevardier had to keep careful track of which bag he plunged his hand into for a snack.