The May 2026 edition of The Valley Magazine celebrates the people, places, and stories that make life in the Bay Area special. This month’s cover feature takes readers inside Castro Valley’s growing plant and gift shop, Beyond the Leaf, where owner Aaron Lewis shares his vision for creating a fun, community-focused retail experience filled with plants, art, games, and unique gifts.
Readers will also discover a variety of local lifestyle content, including a culinary review of Pho Play, a hidden Castro Valley dining gem earning high marks for its fresh vegetarian offerings and welcoming atmosphere. The issue highlights the work of urban sketcher Cathy Raingarden, explores local history through a nostalgic look at Bay Area bread thrift stores and the former Union City Drive-In Theatre, and features a delicious homemade Vanilla Cinnamon French Toast recipe from local contributor Monica Haro.
The magazine also shines a spotlight on Castro Valley multimedia artist Susan Sarti, whose decades of teaching and artistic contributions have enriched the local community. Additional features include local events and happenings, community updates, and a profile of Pawsitive Karma, a beloved Castro Valley pet grooming business that has been caring for four-legged friends since 2006.
As always, The Valley Magazine delivers a blend of local culture, food, art, history, and community stories that showcase the vibrant character of Castro Valley and the greater East Bay.
