Meet the Board of the Castro Valley History Museum
The Castro Valley History Museum is guided by a passionate and dedicated team of community members who serve on our Board of Directors. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on the energy, expertise, and vision of these individuals—each responsible for a unique aspect of the museum’s operations. From curating exhibits and managing educational outreach to overseeing fundraising and digital engagement, our board members bring a wide range of talents to the table. What unites them is a shared commitment to preserving Castro Valley’s rich heritage and making our local history accessible to all. Learn more about each board member below and discover how their work helps bring the story of Castro Valley to life.
Randy Vanderbilt - President
Randy Vanderbilt is a longtime resident and business owner in Castro Valley, California, widely recognized for his deep passion for local history. He has spent years researching, preserving, and sharing the stories that define the community’s past. Randy has unearthed rare and decades-old film footage of Castro Valley, which he has presented at public events such as those hosted at the Castro Valley Library. His dedication to historical preservation has made him a familiar face in local circles, and he’s been featured in community media for his efforts to keep Castro Valley’s heritage alive. Through his work, Randy continues to inspire others to appreciate and explore the town’s rich and evolving story.
Lucille Lorge - Historian
Lucille Lorge, born in 1930, is a lifelong resident of Castro Valley and a passionate local historian whose family roots run deep in the region’s past. She grew up on Grove Way, the daughter of a Sunol native and a San Franciscan who survived the 1906 earthquake. After graduating from Hayward High School in 1948, Lucille began working for the school district.
Lucille married Ray Lorge, who had moved to Castro Valley in 1936 and operated the California State Hatchery on Castro Valley Boulevard—during a time when chickens outnumbered people in the valley. Together, they contributed to the town’s growth through their work in the poultry industry and later as small business owners.
Her passion for history was ignited when she discovered that her great-grandfather, Henry Thomford, had opened one of the region’s earliest businesses—The Exchange—in the 1880s. This personal connection to Castro Valley’s origins became a lifelong mission to preserve, teach, and celebrate the town’s rich heritage.
Lucille became a dedicated volunteer and docent with the Hayward Area Historical Society, helping to preserve and share the stories of Castro Valley’s evolution. She assisted historian Jerry Bishop in teaching a local history class for adult learners and co-authored Castro Valley (Images of America) in 2005—a visual chronicle of the community’s transformation from ranchland to suburbia.
Her efforts have earned her numerous honors, including a United States Congress Service Award, the Castro Valley Business Person of the Year award, and the role of Grand Marshal in the 2003 Rowell Ranch Rodeo Parade. To spark interest in local history, Lucille created a narrated slide show that she presented in schools and community clubs. She also partnered with Randy Vanderbuilt to host a well-attended free history show at the Adobe’s performing arts building.
When plans for a new Castro Valley library were announced, Lucille led a successful campaign to fund a dedicated local history section. Her extensive collection of photographs and artifacts now serves as a foundation for what she hopes will become the permanent Castro Valley History Museum.
Lucille’s work continues to inspire a deeper appreciation for local heritage. Her voice remains vital in efforts to document, preserve, and pass on the stories that define Castro Valley’s cultural legacy.
James J Phillips
Practicing law in his Castro Valley and Pleasanton offices, Jim’s career as a certified specialist in probate, estate planning and trust law includes his pro bono services to incorporating and advising numerous, local non-profit corporations.
Jim graduated CV Elementary School (where his father was taught by AB Morris) and CVHS (as did his children, Katelyn and Jackson).
Founder and coach of Castro Valley Track Club. coaching soccer. Cub scout leader. Rotarian for over 35 years. Jim’s community services include Castro Valley Rotary Club’s Community Foundation and CV Arts, Education, and Sports Foundation, as well as serving Castro Valley Adult School, Eden Hospital, Cal State East Bay, and our local Chamber of Commerce.
Jim’s grandfather, Rev. George W. Phillips, appears in “The Pioneers (1880-1940)” chapter of The History of Castro Valley, at pages 28-30. He moved his family to Castro Valley in 1922, living in the closest house (still standing on Middlefield) to Lake Chabot. He grew persimmons, apples, grapes, and the area’s first pomegranates trees. He sold queen bees around the world. Starting in 1925, he broadcast “The Hour of Prayer” from his barn for the Tenth Avenue Baptist Church (later Lakeshore Avenue Baptist Church). He was inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of Fame for his work founding KTAB 510 on AM dial, the second oldest radio station in the Bay Area (now KSFO).
One of Castro Valley’s first attorneys, Jim’s father, George W. Phillips, was devoted to the early growth and welfare of Castro Valley. He incorporated Eden Hospital, served on the school board that formed CVHS, was the 2nd president of CV Rotary Club. He was a Superior Court Judge from 1964-1980.
Jim and his wife, Melissa, and his siblings, George Phillips and Anne Duey, live in Castro Valley and raised their children here. 4 generations so far…
Robert Souza
Robert Souza is a seasoned journalist and the founder of Castro Valley News, a dynamic community news outlet powered by social media. He also publishes The Valley, a monthly print magazine that shines a spotlight on local business owners, artists, chefs, and changemakers throughout Castro Valley and the greater Bay Area.
Robert’s passion for storytelling began during his time as a reporter for the Castro Valley Forum, where he covered the rich history and vibrant culture of his hometown. His work continues to connect neighbors, celebrate local voices, and document the evolving identity of the region.
Outside the newsroom, Robert enjoys painting modern art, spending quality time with his mother, and exploring the Bay Area alongside his partner, Meredith.
Thomas E. Lorentzen
Tom Lorentzen has dedicated his life to the study and preservation of history—local, state, and national. A lifelong resident of Castro Valley, he brings deep roots and perspective to his work in public service and cultural advocacy. His distinguished career includes a presidential appointment to the National Board of the Institute of Museum & Library Services, a role requiring confirmation by the U.S. Senate.
Tom has held leadership positions across the West Coast, including serving as Vice President of Marketing & Development for Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Redding, and as a member of the Advisory Board to the President of Southern Oregon University in Ashland. Over the course of his career, he was appointed to key roles under three U.S. Presidents, culminating in his tenure as Regional Director for the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
Today, Tom continues to champion local heritage as President of the Board for the Hayward Area Historical Society. He also shares his insights and historical reflections
through a bi-weekly column in the Castro Valley Forum, helping connect the community to its rich and evolving story.
Brian Anthony Morrison
Brian Anthony Morrison is a seasoned general contractor and respected business owner who has served the Castro Valley community for over three decades. Since founding B.A. Morrison in 1990, Brian has built a reputation for integrity, craftsmanship, and customer-first service across the Bay Area. His company specializes in residential and commercial HVAC systems, remodeling, and general construction projects—from kitchen upgrades to full-scale home additions.
Under Brian’s leadership, B.A. Morrison has grown into one of the region’s top-rated contractors, consistently earning high marks for quality and reliability. The company holds multiple licenses, including General Building and Warm Air Heating & Ventilation, and ranks in the top 2% of California contractors based on performance and client satisfaction.
Beyond his business, Brian is an active member of the Castro Valley/Eden Area Chamber of Commerce, where he supports local economic development and community initiatives. His commitment to excellence and community engagement continues to shape the built environment and strengthen local ties.
Dennis Waespi
Dennis Waespi’s family settled in Castro Valley in 1923, operating a chicken ranch on the hill behind Pete’s Hardware. Born and raised in Castro Valley, Dennis attended Castro Valley Elementary, A.B. Morris Junior High, and Castro Valley High School. After college and years spent living throughout the Bay Area, he returned to Castro Valley to raise his own family—committed to the community that shaped him.
Dennis has dedicated decades to public service, holding leadership roles on the Castro Valley Sanitary District Board of Directors, the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District Board of Directors, and the East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors.
His work has focused on environmental stewardship, community access to open spaces, and preserving the natural beauty of the East Bay. Today, Dennis is passionate about helping secure a permanent home for the Castro Valley History Museum and ensuring the stories of Castro Valley’s people and places are preserved for generations to come.
Susan Holm
Susan Holm, daughter of Ray and Lucille Lorge, has spent her entire life in Castro Valley—a community she holds close to her heart. She attended Stanton Elementary, A.B. Morris, and Castro Valley High School, where she built lasting friendships and deep local ties.
Growing up around her father’s business, the California State Hatchery, Sue has fond memories of school field trips filled with playful chicks and ducklings. Her early experiences instilled a love for community and connection that continues to shape her life.
After working at R & J Quick Clean—a family-owned business still operated by her brother Chris—Sue pursued higher education, earning a B.A. in Childhood Development from UC Davis and a teaching credential from San Jose State. She has dedicated over 25 years to the Castro Valley Unified School District, nurturing generations of local students.
In 1978, Sue married her high school classmate, Larry Holm. Together, they built a home in Castro Valley, where Larry served as an anesthesiologist at Eden Hospital for 35 years. They are proud parents of two children and grandparents to four, all living nearby.
For Sue, Castro Valley isn’t just where she lives—it’s where her story began, and where her family’s legacy continues. The town’s history and spirit remain a cherished part of her life.
Melissa Mahar
Born at Eden Hospital and raised in Castro Valley, Melissa Mahar is a lifelong resident whose personal and professional journey is deeply intertwined with the community’s history. From her earliest days at Three Crosses Happiness Hill through her years at Castro Valley Elementary, Vannoy, Canyon Middle School, and Castro Valley High School, Melissa’s connection to the town has only grown stronger.
Her passion for local history was sparked in third grade, when she first saw Lucille Lorge’s iconic slideshow presentation—a moment that planted the seed for a lifelong commitment to preserving Castro Valley’s heritage. Melissa went on to earn degrees in Business Entrepreneurship and Marketing, equipping her with the skills to lead creative and community-driven projects.
In 2022, she joined the Moose organization and served as Senior Regent, and later became an active member of the Optimist Club, receiving the Optimist Service Award in 2025 for her outstanding contributions. Melissa also curated the exhibits for the first-ever Rowell Ranch Rodeo Parade / Castro Valley History Festival, blending her talents in graphic design, printing, and event planning to bring the town’s story to life.
As a graphic designer, wholesale printer, and former event planner, Melissa brings a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise to her role supporting the Castro Valley History Museum. She is currently helping develop the museum’s website and digital infrastructure, ensuring that the stories of Castro Valley are preserved and shared with future generations.
With deep roots and a visionary spirit, Melissa Mahar continues to be a driving force in honoring the past while building a vibrant future for her hometown.
