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Community Corner

When Historically Accurate Really Means Modern

Local residents and businesses to be honored at gala event with dinner and jazz band on April 29.

Historical preservation doesn't always mean Victorian homes or sepia-tone photos.

Mark Yin and Sharon Young will be honored by the The Hayward Area Historical Society, or HAHS, for completing innovations that preserve the historical integrity of a architectural style called "California Modern."

The iconic Joseph Eichler "brought the outdoors in" with glass walls and open floor plans at a time when most builders offered conventional bungalows that gave returning World War II veterans and their families a cozy sense of security.

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Other distinctive features include exposed beams, flat or low-sloping roofs, spartan facades and clean geometric lines.

Despite early resistance, Eichler's company, Eichler Homes, sold more than 11,000 houses in nine communities, mostly in in Northern California, from 1950 to 1974. 

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Yin and Young will be honored on Friday, April 29, at the 12th Annual History Awards Gala, which is open to the public. To buy tickets or request an invitation, contact Development Director Alison Wenz at 510-581-0223 or email her at alison@haywardareahistory.org

The 5:30 p.m. celebration, including cocktails and dinner, will be at the Stonebrae Country Club, 27900 Fairview Ave., Hayward.

Other honorees include:

Foothill Locksmith, San Lorenzo - Historic Business Award

Hayward Rotary - The Historic Organization Award

Wendy Papciak - Educator of the Year Award

Fernando Hernandez - The Community Service Award

Paul Ferreira - John Sandoval Award

In addition to the awards presentation, the evening will feature live jazz by the Steve Turner Collective, a dinner prepared by Stonebrae chefs and a chance to bid on silent auction prizes, which include gift certificates to local restaurants, spas and wineries, tickets to area attractions and sporting events and more. 

Raffle tickets may also be purchased for the chance to win a tour and wine tasting for up to 30 people courtesy of Byington Winery and Vineyard. 

All proceeds from the event help fund the society's historic preservation and educational endeavors.

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