{"id":333,"date":"2012-06-30T19:20:18","date_gmt":"2012-06-30T19:20:18","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.websitefix.net\/clients\/Generic\/?page_id=333"},"modified":"2023-10-30T20:51:23","modified_gmt":"2023-10-30T20:51:23","slug":"east-valley","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/BayArea3\/WindermereMStern\/?page_id=333","title":{"rendered":"ALAMEDA COUNTY"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><strong><b>ALAMEDA COUNTY<\/p>\n<p>County Offices<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong>1221 Oak Street<br \/>\nOakland 510-272-6984<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.acgov.org\/\">www.acgov.org<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Chamber of Commerce<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong>2215-A South Shore Center<br \/>\nAlameda 510-522-0414<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.alamedachamber.com\/\">https:\/\/www.alamedachamber.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Services<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong>From internationally famous scientific and engineering institutions to world-class wineries, Alameda County embraces a diversity of flourishing enterprises. Oakland serves as the county\u2019s center of transportation and distribution, although the city\u2019s influence reaches beyond the West Coast to impact international markets.<\/p>\n<p>Offering air, sea and ground transportation across the United States and to the Pacific Basin, Oakland is the terminus for major rail and highway transit systems. One of the nation\u2019s major containerized shipping facilities is located at Oakland\u2019s port, an indispensable connection to global markets.<\/p>\n<p>Rated among America\u2019s best cities for business by Fortune magazine, Oakland provides fertile ground in which companies of all sizes can take root and flourish in local, regional, and worldwide commerce.<\/p>\n<p>Conveniently close to Oakland\u2019s international airport, the \u201cIsland city\u201d of Alameda is encouraging and welcoming new upstart industries at the former naval station. Fremont has emerged in recent years as a regional leader in high-tech development, drawing an influx of new firms.<\/p>\n<p>Livermore is a mecca for advanced research and state-of-the art facilities, anchored by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratories. Collectively, these institutions employ over 10,000 scientists, engineers, technicians and administrative personnel.<\/p>\n<p>Managed by the University of California for the U.S Department of Energy, the square-mile Lawrence Livermore facility performs research vital to many national goals. Sandia National Laboratories is operated by a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin for the U.S. Department of Energy, with primary missions in national security and energy technologies.<\/p>\n<p>Residents of Alameda County can look forward to the same quality transportation efficiencies as business and commerce. The entire Bay Area enjoys a network of interstate freeways, state and federal highways, bridges, and local parkways. The county\u2019s comprehensive transit systems are among the world\u2019s most advanced, providing quick and convenient alternatives to freeways and bridges crowded with peak-hour traffic. The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) operates lines that connect San Mateo, San Francisco, Alameda, and Contra Costa Counties.<\/p>\n<p>Thousands of commuters harness the advantages of BART and the county\u2019s own AC Transit as they travel to employment centers. Many area entertainment venues offer discounted tickets based on the use of rapid transit\u2013practice that relieves parking congestion at high-profile events.<\/p>\n<p>Alameda County also shares in the reputation of the Greater San Francisco Bay Area as a world leader in education. Hayward is home to California State University, while the City of Berkeley and the University of California\u2019s campus dominate the northern end of the county.<\/p>\n<p>An abundance of public and private two-year, four-year, and graduate institutions are available close to home for those interested in pursuing a degree program or continuing education. Alameda County\u2019s public school system consists of well organized local districts that have consistently been recognized for their innovative teaching methods and multilingual, enrichment, vocational and special education programs.<\/p>\n<p>Leading healthcare systems like the Kaiser Foundation and Sutter Health underline the network of major medical centers, hospitals, clinics, and professional services available throughout the county. Skilled physicians, specialists, nurses, and technicians provide state-of-the-art diagnostics and treatment in such areas as prenatal care, cancer treatment, cardiac and vascular services, rehabilitation, mental health, burn treatment, bone marrow and kidney transplant programs, Alzheimer\u2019s treatment, community education and home health care. The Children\u2019s Hospital-Oakland is recognized as the largest and most comprehensive pediatric medical center between Los Angeles and Seattle.<br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\n<\/b><br \/>\n<\/strong><strong><b>Quality of Life<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong>Rich in diversity, Alameda County harmonizes cosmopolitan amenities, rural tranquility, professional sports, renowned universities, wineries, and balmy weather. Oakland serves as the county seat and cultural center, a community of colorful contrasts and cultural diversity.<\/p>\n<p>Housing options are plentiful and attractive, from highrise condominiums with breathtaking Bay vistas to charming turn-of-the-century Victorians, modern construction, or ranches with generous acreage. Waterfront properties, secluded hillside retreats, lakeside condos, horse ranches, small farms, and million-dollar mansions are all possibilities on the list of available real estate.<\/p>\n<p>Long-established communities like Oakland, Alameda, Hayward, Union City, and San Leandro provide tree-shaded neighborhoods of well-kept older homes and neatly trimmed landscaping. In the southern and eastern valleys, much of the development is relatively new.<\/p>\n<p>The Tri-Valley area combines the communities of Pleasanton, Livermore, and Dublin. In both wine production and reputation, the verdant Livermore Valley is the fastest growing winemaking sector in the San Francisco Bay region. Throughout the countryside are quaint shopping districts, award-winning restaurants, cozy bed-and-breakfast inns, spas and retreats that preserve the area\u2019s rural atmosphere. Special events are held nearly every weekend, including Jazz in the Vineyards or the popular Labor Day Weekend Heritage Wine Tour.<\/p>\n<p>Aficionados of shopping can spend hours exploring wonderful markets, bakeries, bookstores, antique dealers, and boutiques that make up some of the area\u2019s most enchanting retail centers. Among the local treasures are Oakland\u2019s Chinatown, Albany\u2019s Solano Avenue, Pittsburgh\u2019s revitalized waterfront, Berkeley\u2019s charming shopping districts, or the rustic atmosphere of Jack London Village along the sleepy canal bank in Oakland.<\/p>\n<p>Regional malls are well placed throughout the county in cities like Antioch, San Leandro, Oakland, Fremont, Newark, Hayward, and Pleasanton. Keeping pace with the county\u2019s rapid growth, convenient neighborhood shopping centers filled with goods and services have sprung up \u201cround the corner\u201d from the subdivisions and handsome residential developments.<\/p>\n<p>Sports fans are able to cheer on their favorite teams every season of the year on the East Bay. Alameda County is home to several professional sports clubs and national champions, include the Oakland Raiders football team, the Oakland Athletics (A\u2019s) baseball team, and the Golden State Warriors basketball team. The San Francisco Giants and 49\u2019ers play across the Bay, while neighboring San Jose hosts national hockey and soccer competition.<\/p>\n<p>For live and simulcast horseracing thrills, visit the track in Pleasanton or the Golden Gate Fields Race Track in Albany. Home to two major state universities in Hayward and Berkeley, Alameda County fills the school-year calendar with athletic competition in a variety of sports.<\/p>\n<p>Throughout Alameda County, over 40,000 acres of accessible parklands support hiking and riding trails; lakes and beaches for swimming, fishing and boating; and wooded campgrounds. Community and senior centers, art centers, skating rinks, neighborhood parks, swimming pools, tennis courts, athletic facilities, sports clubs and golf courses are available in or near most communities.<\/p>\n<p>The East Bay Regional Park District efficiently operates an outstanding system of public parks and trails in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. Over 50 parks and 20 regional trails cover over 75,000 acres, ensuring the preservation of natural beauty and open space that has made the Bay Area so desirable as a place to live, work, and play.<\/p>\n<p>The waters of the Bay and Pacific coastline are known for their rich abundance of marine life, including seals, otters, and sea lions. Premier discovery museums, planetariums, and aquariums are available throughout the region, mixing entertainment with educational programs designed to deepen public knowledge and appreciation of the ocean and the planet we call home.<\/p>\n<p>In Berkeley, the Lawrence Hall of Science serves as a fascinating public science museum as well as a research and teacher-education center. Catering to the young at heart, the City of Oakland is home to the whimsical Children\u2019s Fairyland theme park and the impressive Oakland Zoo. Small World Park in Pittsburgh invites families to ride the carousel and train, relax beside ponds and streams, enjoy the play equipment, or bring a picnic lunch.<\/p>\n<p>While the world-class cultural community of San Francisco is readily accessible, Alameda County offers its residents a wealth of visual and performing arts venues and exciting events. Oakland and Berkeley play leading roles in supporting the arts, from intimate theaters to regional facilities like the Henry J. Kaiser Convention Center in Oakland. The Alice Arts Center in Oakland offers another stunning venue, providing an elegant backdrop of Renaissance-palazzo architecture for the county\u2019s finest talent.<\/p>\n<p>Even the smaller towns throughout the county tend to have active cultural organizations. Art centers offer classes for all ages, encouraging artistic expression. Community theater is common, showcasing local talent in intimate venues. While it\u2019s true that Alameda County is overflowing with first-rate attractions, it also serves as a gateway to California\u2019s most celebrated and scenic recreational areas. Lake Tahoe, the North Coast, Yosemite, Napa Valley\u2019s \u201cwine country,\u201d and the spectacular Monterey Peninsula are just a few hours drive from home.<\/p>\n<p>California is truly nature\u2019s playground, offering 15,000,000 acres of diverse landscape that has been dedicated to spectacular national parks and open-space preserves. Parasail, windsurf, powerboat, sail, water-ski, hike or bike, horseback-ride\u2013lake to the skies, skim the water, or keep your feet firmly planted on the ground\u2013the choice is yours. Little wonder that Alameda County enjoys a long-standing reputation as one of the West Coast\u2019s most desirable places to call home.<br \/>\n<strong><b><\/p>\n<p><\/b><\/strong><strong><b>Alameda City<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-747-7400<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.alamedaca.gov\">https:\/\/www.alamedaca.gov<\/a><br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\nAlameda Chamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-522-0414<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.alamedachamber.com\/\">https:\/\/www.alamedachamber.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Once known as the \u201cCity of beaches,\u201d Alameda today excels in preserving\u00a0 its small-town ambiance. Known for its unusual topography, the city consists of an island and a peninsula adjacent to the Oakland International Airport.<\/p>\n<p>In 1940 the sprawling Alameda Naval Air Station moved into the city\u2019s west end, dominating the real estate and spurring economic development. When the base closed in 1997, innovative city planners began redevelopment. The 1,700-acre former base is already home to cutting-edge businesses, with plans underway for quality housing, a wildlife refuge, and parks with shoreline trails.<\/p>\n<p>Among its many amenities, the city claims lovely residential developments and well-preserved Victorian homes, extensive shopping districts, fascinating museums, and a state-of-the-art hospital.<\/p>\n<p>Newcomers will find attractive and well-balanced neighborhoods like Marina Village on the main island, offering beautiful townhomes, a shopping plaza, and several high tech businesses. Extensive recreational opportunities include water sports, boating, and fishing. A golf course, senior center, community parks, athletic facilities, tennis courts, and swimming pools are available within the city, while white-sand beaches offer spectacular views of San Francisco.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Albany<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-528-5710<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.albanyca.org\/\">https:\/\/www.albanyca.org\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\n<\/b>Albany Chamber of Commerce<\/strong><br \/>\n510-525-1771<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/everythingalbany.com\/\">https:\/\/everythingalbany.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Although over 350,000 people live within a 15-miles radius of Albany, the community manages to offer a small-town atmosphere and desirable centralized location within the Bay Area. The combination of major arteries like Interstates 80 and 580 and Route 123 combine with nearby BART stations to offer commuters a variety of transportation options.<\/p>\n<p>Albany presents a pleasing image and an abundance of quality homesites as it stretches from the Bay north of Berkeley and rises into the hills. One of the obvious reflections of the town\u2019s friendly and intimate atmosphere is the main street of Solano Avenue, lined with charming restaurants, bakeries, antique shops, and bookstores.<\/p>\n<p>Known for its dedication to family values, Albany provides exceptional services for residents of all ages. Albany Memorial Park covers 6.5 acres with diverse amenities like a child-care center, veteran\u2019s facility, athletic facilities, tot lot, tennis courts, and picnic facilities.<\/p>\n<p>The community center and senior center both provide a wealth of programs and activities. Near the Golden Gate Fields racetrack, Albany Point State Park provides 38 acres of undeveloped land. Public and private schools provide a first-rate education, and opportunities for higher education close to home range from community colleges to highly acclaimed state universities in Hayward and Berkeley.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Berkeley<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-981-CITY<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/berkeleyca.gov\/\">https:\/\/berkeleyca.gov\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\nBerkeley Chamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-549-7000<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.berkeleychamber.com\/\">https:\/\/www.berkeleychamber.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>With its unique excellence, unusual style and pure energy, the City of Berkeley is one of the most desirable communities in the Bay Area. Situated directly across the bay from San Francisco, Berkeley residents enjoy a waterfront with a marina and sailing club as well as spectacular vistas from hillside developments.<\/p>\n<p>The influence of the University of California ensures the city\u2019s international reputation as an intellectual center. Home of the Free Speech Movement and political protests of the \u201860s, the dynamic campus community influences every aspect of Berkeley life.<\/p>\n<p>At the same time, many of its leading companies are among the Bay Area\u2019s largest and fastest growing. Key industries include architecture, multimedia, biotechnology, software, and innovative \u201cenergy bar\u201d food processing.<\/p>\n<p>Amenities in Berkeley are nothing less than exceptional. Shopping and commercial districts combine charming stores with over 400 restaurants. Several senior centers, wonderful discovery museums for children, world-class libraries and galleries, a year-long calendar of performing arts, the Berkeley Rose Garden, the 3,000-boat Berkeley Marina, shoreline trails, and Tilden Park Golf Course are just a few of the attractions.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Castro Valley<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>County Offices<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong>510-272-6984<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.acgov.org\/\">www.acgov.org<\/a><br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>Chamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-537-5300<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.edenareachamber.com\/\">https:\/\/www.edenareachamber.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Distinguished as one of Northern\u00a0 California\u2019s largest unincorporated communities, Castro Valley was originally a large collection of cattle and poultry ranches. The rural influence of the past still flavors the area, and many residents are involved in equestrian activities \u2013 from riding and showing horses to operating horse-breeding ranches. Within the heart of town, small shops dot the quiet neighborhoods, underlined by the primary business districts concentrated along Castro Valley Boulevard and Redwood Road. Many newcomers are drawn to Castro Valley for its blend of urban amenities and wonderful recreational amenities. Cull Canyon and Don Castro Regional Recreation Areas provide swimming lagoons, picnic areas, fishing and hiking or riding trails. The premier Redwood Regional Park offers 1,500 acres of redwood beauty, while Lake Chabot Regional Park invites water sports and accommodates camping.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Dublin<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n925-833-6650<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/dublin.ca.gov\/\">https:\/\/dublin.ca.gov\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\nDublin Chamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n925-828-6200<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/dublinchamberofcommerce.org\/\">https:\/\/dublinchamberofcommerce.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Situated at the crossroads of Interstates 580 and 680, Dublin claims an ideal location within the Bay Area. With the completion of the BART station in 1997, Dublin is growing in popularity as a bedroom community. The city\u2019s own economic base continues to expand as well, attracting new businesses with its combination of extensive commercial and warehouse space and excellent transportation amenities. True to its Irish roots and legacy, the city claims a cloverleaf for its symbol and is known throughout the region for its colorful St. Patrick\u2019s Day festivals. Dublin is an attractive community filled with lovely parks and excellent recreational amenities. Among the highlights are the Dublin Sports Grounds for soccer, baseball and softball; the senior center with ongoing programs; the Shannon Community Center with preschool programs, aerobics and other activities; and the Dublin Swim Center.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Fremont<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n<strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-284-4000<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fremont.gov\/\">https:\/\/www.fremont.gov\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Fremont Chamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-795-2244<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fremontbusiness.com\/\">https:\/\/www.fremontbusiness.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Offering a dynamic mix of comfortable residential living and industrial\/commercial development, fast-growing Fremont can be characterized as ethnically and culturally diverse as well as family-oriented. With the concentration of high technology companies in the Warm Springs area, the city is now part of the world-renowned \u201cSilicon Valley.\u201d With its outstanding combination of interstates and major highways, Fremont has attracted major enterprises like the joint venture between General Motors and Toyota.<\/p>\n<p>With its moderate climate, proximity to major universities, shopping areas, recreational and cultural activities, Fremont is a model for metropolitan living. Community centers, a multi-purpose senior center, lush parks, elaborate playgrounds, tennis courts, swimming pools and athletic facilities provide activities for all ages. Nearby recreational sites include Lake Elizabeth with its boating facilities, Ardenwood Historic Farm with its horse-drawn trains and hayrides; Coyote Hills Regional Park with wildlife preserve and boardwalks through marshlands; or Mission Peak Regional Preserve.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Hayward<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-583-4000<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.hayward-ca.gov\">www.hayward-ca.gov<\/a><br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\nHayward Chamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-537-2424<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/hayward.org\/\">https:\/\/hayward.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Name for William Hayward, who pitched a tent and opened a merchandise store in 1852, Hayward is a vibrant university town that blends lovely residential developments, flourishing commercial centers, and an abundance of premier recreational and cultural attractions. One of the attractions that is unique to Hayward is the Shoreline Interpretive Center and Japanese Garden. Throughout the town, residents can enjoy easy access to lush parks, sports centers, swim centers, tennis courts, an arts center, performance theaters, a rodeo arena, nature centers, and greenbelt hiking trails. Many of the programs and facilities are designed around the needs of children and families, from Kennedy Park with its petting zoo, carousel, and train rides to the educational programs available at the Sulfur Creek Nature Center. Downtown Hayward is the scene of the weekly Farmers Market, where shoppers can find the finest in fresh fruit and vegetables. The downtown district also hosts numerous festivals and celebrations like Blues and Brew or the Celebration of Nations. Restaurants can satisfy every taste, the local shopping is superb, bookstores are fascinating, and the 18-hole championship Skywest Golf Course is regarded as one of the finest in the East Bay. The intellectually and culturally stimulating influence of California State University ensures a full calendar of collegiate sports competitions, performing arts, special events, and lectures.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Livermore<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n925-960-4000<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.livermoreca.gov\/\">https:\/\/www.livermoreca.gov\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Livermore Chamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n925-447-1606<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.livermorechamber.org\/\">https:\/\/www.livermorechamber.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Offering the epitome of California living, Livermore is known for harmonizing urban amenities with a relaxed lifestyle surrounded by vineyards and golden hillsides. Less than an hour from San Francisco, the city retained its rural flavor as an agricultural and ranching community until the surplus naval base was transformed into the internationally acclaimed Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in 1952. A few years later, the city welcomed Sandia National Laboratory, which spurred a flood of new residents and high-tech businesses. To accommodate new residential developments, retail activity has accelerated in recent years, particularly along the Interstate 580 corridor. In spite of the cosmopolitan nature of the research laboratories and related companies, the area enjoys an ideal microclimate for growing popular grape varieties like sauvignon blanc and cabernet.<\/p>\n<p>Lovely vineyards have graced the valley since the mid 1800s, drawing locals and visitors to their tours, tastings, and colorful special events. The community offers a general aviation airport, recreation centers, senior centers, golf courses, lush local parks, and horse arenas.<\/p>\n<p>Del Valle Regional Park is ideal for hiking, biking, horseback riding, picnicking, fishing, boating, windsurfing, swimming, studying nature and camping.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Newark<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-578-4000<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.newark.org\/\">https:\/\/www.newark.org\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\nNewark Chamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-578-4500<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.newark-chamber.com\/\">https:\/\/www.newark-chamber.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Drawn into the imaginary boundaries of the \u201cSilicon Valley\u201d as it crawls north from Fremont, Newark has managed to blend its expansion into high technology with a strong and proud spirit rooted in community and family values. Significant newcomers, like Sun Microsystems, continue to open the door for thousands of new employment opportunities, although the diversified economy already encompasses over 45 manufacturers of everything from glass to electronic components. Fortunately, Newark has developed commercial and recreational amenities to accommodate the influx of new residents.<\/p>\n<p>In fact, the local Newpark Mall serves as one of Alameda County\u2019s major shopping centers. Newark Community Center, a senior center, and a network of local parks provide classes, activities, sports leagues, playgrounds, and athletic facilities for residents of all ages. The quality public school system and associated adult school are enhanced by the Center for Career Transition located on the Ohlone College campus.<\/p>\n<p>Newark is surrounded by the natural beauty of sprawling open spaces like the 21,000-acre San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, the Mission Peak Regional Preserve, the 900-acre Coyote Hills Regional Park, the 12-mile Alameda Creek Regional Trail, and the 200-acre Ardenwood Historic Farm. The latter is especially well-suited for family activities.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Oakland<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><br \/>\n<\/strong>510-444-CITY<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.oaklandca.gov\/\">https:\/\/www.oaklandca.gov\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\nOakland Chamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-874-4800<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.oaklandchamber.com\">www.oaklandchamber.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>One of California\u2019s largest cities, Oakland has emerged as a national transportation hub. The city not only claims the fourth largest container port in the United States, its 2,500-acre international airport leads the Bay Area in small-package shipping and ranks 20th in the nation in air cargo. In the area of commerce, many of the nation\u2019s most respected corporations are at home in Oakland, including the nation\u2019s largest health plan, the Kaiser Foundation and Kaiser Permanente.<\/p>\n<p>Distinguished as the country\u2019s most ethnically diverse city, Oakland also ranks fourth in the nation among cities with the highest percentage of workforce in skilled occupations such as executives, managers and technicians.<\/p>\n<p>From the bustling Fruitridge District to the trendy shops and cafes along College Avenue in the Rockridge District, Oakland reveals its many facets and faces. The charming waterfront area of Jack London Square, beautiful Lake Merritt, the Grand Lake Theater, and the unique Children\u2019s Fairyland all mirror the pride and heritage of Oakland.<\/p>\n<p>Recreational and cultural amenities abound, including professional sports teams, lush golf courses, Dunsmuir House and Gardens, Knowland Park and Oakland Zoo, Oakland Museum of California, Alice Arts Center, Oakland Lyric Opera, Oakland East Bay Symphony, Oakland Youth Orchestra, and the Oakland Ballet.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Piedmont<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-420-3040<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ci.piedmont.ca.us\/\">https:\/\/www.ci.piedmont.ca.us\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\nChamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n405-373-2234<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/piedmontokchamber.org\/\">https:\/\/piedmontokchamber.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Snuggled in the Oakland Hills, the City of Piedmont is primarily a residential community of lovely homesites, many of which enjoy magnificent bay views. Completely surrounded by the neighboring City of Oakland, Piedmont residents are able to access Oakland\u2019s wealth of recreational and cultural amenities while preserving a tranquil lifestyle in their hillside enclave. The city\u2019s elevation varies from 40 to 700 feet, providing natural contours for some of Northern California\u2019s most architecturally stunning and luxurious homes. The city is known for its excellent public school system, although choices for a private education are available in parochial or independent schools within the Greater Oakland area. Nearby Laney College offers two-year degrees and certificates, while the state\u2019s finest universities are just a short commute from home.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Pleasanton<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n925-931-5002<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.cityofpleasantonca.gov\">www.cityofpleasantonca.gov<\/a><br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\nPleasanton Chamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n925-846-5858<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.pleasanton.org\/\">https:\/\/www.pleasanton.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Home of numerous landmarks like Pleasanton Race Track and Hearst Ranch, Pleasanton claims the 260-acre fairgrounds that host the Alameda County Fair each year.<\/p>\n<p>In spite of massive growth in many sectors over recent years, the city has managed to preserve the small-town charm mirrored in the gateway \u201cPleasanton\u201d arch and the historic Pleasanton Hotel and Cheese Factory buildings. Traditional shops and long-established services harmonize with modern development like the Hacienda Business Park developed by the Prudential Company and the Callahan Property Company.<\/p>\n<p>Over 875 acres provides 4.8 million square feet of office space for over 240 companies, making this one of Northern California\u2019s largest business parks. Stoneridge Mall opened its doors in 1980, featuring 160 stores that contribute substantially to the diverse tax base.<\/p>\n<p>Other amenities that are available to Pleasanton residents include the Castlewood Country Club, a golf course, community centers, senior center, Amador Theater Performing Arts Center, Cultural Arts Center, Aquatic Center, and parks filled with recreational amenities.<\/p>\n<p>Among the regional parks are the 3,000-acre Pleasanton Ridgelands Regional Park and the Shadow Cliffs Recreation area, popular for its Rapid Water Slides and opportunities for fishing, swimming, and picnicking.<\/p>\n<p>Known as the Jewel of Amador Valley,\u201d Pleasanton offers lush rolling hills, a warm community spirit, attractive housing options, and convenient rapid-transit connections to major Bay Area employment centers.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b><br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>San Leandro<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-557-3200<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sanleandro.org\/\">https:\/\/www.sanleandro.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p><strong><b>San Leandro Chamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-317-1400<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sanleandrochamber.com\/\">https:\/\/www.sanleandrochamber.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Friendly and diverse, the City of San Leandro is nestled between the Oakland foothills and the San Francisco Bay. Convenient to Oakland and Hayward, residents enjoy easy interstate access to a wide array of first-rate educational, recreational, and cultural amenities.<\/p>\n<p>Boasting a colorful heritage, San Leandro offers stable and attractive neighborhoods of primarily older but well-kept homes. Tree-lined streets graced by charming homes, fresh paint, and beautiful landscaping are the rule. In spite of the general housing atmosphere of relatively modest homesites, the west-end residents of San Leandro enjoy some of the largest suburban lots of any community in the entire Bay Area.<\/p>\n<p>The inviting downtown district is complemented by the city\u2019s lovely waterfront area and the first-class San Leandro Marina. Here, you\u2019ll find a free launch ramp, yacht clubs, 455 berths, fine restaurants, a waterfront hotel, a driving range, the Tony Lema Golf\/Marina Golf Courses, lush parks, wetlands, picnic areas, and a shoreline trail. Strollers, families, golfers, athletes, boaters and water-sport enthusiasts mingle at the waterfront, reflecting the prevailing spirit of friendliness and camaraderie.<\/p>\n<p>Over 23 parks and recreational facilities include community and neighborhood green spaces, swimming pools, barbecue suites, picnic areas, tennis courts, skateboard sections, playgrounds and sports fields.<\/p>\n<p>One of the more popular amenities is the shoreline bike and hiking trail that meanders to the Hayward Shoreline Interpretive Center north of San Mateo Bridge.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>San Lorenzo<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>County Offices<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong>510-272-6984<br \/>\n<a href=\"http:\/\/www.acgov.org\/\">http:\/\/www.acgov.org\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\nChamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-537-2424<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/hayward.org\/\">https:\/\/hayward.org\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Another unincorporated community in Alameda County, San Lorenzo enjoys an advantageous East Bay location bounded by San Leandro to the north and Hayward to the south. The genesis for this community dates back to World War II with the construction of the San Lorenzo Village Homes, which remain today as the core of the growing community. Many community services are carried out through the homeowner\u2019s association, representing 80 percent of San Lorenzo\u2019s population.<\/p>\n<p>Recreational amenities have grown over the years to include an impressive list of quality facilities. Mervin Morris Park offers lighted tennis courts, while the Arroyo Swim Center is a favorite destination in the heat of the summer months. The San Lorenzo Community Center includes a 31-acre park with dog run, picnic areas, lagoon, play areas, hiking trail, athletic facilities, exercise course, and lush green space for free play.<\/p>\n<p><strong><b>Union City<br \/>\n<\/b><\/strong><strong><b>Municipal Offices<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-471-3232<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.unioncity.org\/\">https:\/\/www.unioncity.org\/<\/a><br \/>\n<strong><b><br \/>\nUnion City Chamber of Commerce<\/b><\/strong><br \/>\n510-952-9637<br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.unioncitychamber.com\/\">https:\/\/www.unioncitychamber.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Union City\u2019s industrial nature was established when it became the site of the first successful beet sugar mill, and later underlined by the low-cost shipping port of the Alvarado Dock on Alameda Creek. Adding handsome residential developments, industrial parks, and commercial districts, Union City has continued the pattern of expansion. A sprawling shopping center with a 25-screen cinema now complements the many retail plazas.<\/p>\n<p>The community center serves as a vital resource for recreational activities and classes for all ages, while local parks offer athletic fields, playgrounds, game areas, picnic facilities, lighted tennis courts, and an amphitheater for outdoor concerts. Vibrant, progressive, and obviously well managed, the city itself has been honored as an \u201cAll American City\u201d finalist. Although local employment opportunities are abundant, Union City commuters enjoy the convenience of bus connections to high-speed rail.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>ALAMEDA COUNTY County Offices 1221 Oak Street Oakland 510-272-6984 www.acgov.org Chamber of Commerce 2215-A South Shore Center Alameda 510-522-0414 https:\/\/www.alamedachamber.com\/ Services From internationally famous scientific and engineering institutions to world-class wineries, Alameda County embraces a diversity of flourishing enterprises. Oakland serves as the county\u2019s center of transportation and distribution, although the city\u2019s influence reaches beyond [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/BayArea3\/WindermereMStern\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/333"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/BayArea3\/WindermereMStern\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/BayArea3\/WindermereMStern\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/BayArea3\/WindermereMStern\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/BayArea3\/WindermereMStern\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=333"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/BayArea3\/WindermereMStern\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/333\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":795,"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/BayArea3\/WindermereMStern\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/333\/revisions\/795"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sunraydirect.com\/BayArea3\/WindermereMStern\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=333"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}