CASTRO VALLEY FORUM CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Nobody’s Perfekt Pet Shelter Fears Closure
By Mike McGuire CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Nobody’s Dogs Perfekt, a Castro Valley pet adoption center for dogs and cats with special needs, may be in danger of closing, Director Rick Hollander says.
The small facility at 3810 Castro Valley Blvd., corner of Forest Avenue, came to Castro Valley two years ago after its lease wasn’t renewed at the Bayfair Mall in San Leandro, along with most other tenants.
Now Hollander fears his lease will not be renewed in March at his present location, but not for non-payment. His small parcel sits next to the former Rite Aid location, which is now being redeveloped into an Asian food center.
“That seems to be the direction things are moving, and I think the landlord would seek the higher rents he can probably get from a different kind of tenant,” Hollander said.
“As it is, we don’t make enough from pet adoptions to pay the rent, and we use all the donations we get to care for and get veterinary care for our cats and dogs,” he added.
Sometimes those costs can be substantial, as when a dog is hit by a car. The animals, though, might also have behavioral problems that make them unlikely to be adopted from a conventional shelter. Often, people foster the cats and dogs from Nobody’s Perfekt rather than adopt them permanently. They also sell a wide range of pet supplies.
Hollander says he raids his own retirement fund to pay the rent, which has escalated every time the center has moved. Fortunately, he said, there’s some money in it and his house is paid off.
“Besides, what better to spend it on?” he said.
Originally spun off from a San Leandro adoption center for pets with more ordinary needs, the center started paying Bayfair Mall’s then-owners only $300 a month, but for a small space.
“They were trying to bring in businesses that might attract a different kind of clientele to other businesses in the mall, and our customers definitely were different,” he said. The rent went up when they moved into a larger space, which they’d expected.
see PERFEKT on page 10
MAC Approves A Handful of Land-Use Items
By Amy Sylvestri CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
The Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) approved a handful of land-use items at their meeting this Monday night, including a very enthusiastic thumbs-up for an archery facility on Lake Chabot Road.
Ascension Archery has applied to operate an outdoor private archery range catering to the Junior Olympic Youth Program on a 26-acre parcel at 13575 Lake Chabot Road.
The site, which borders Lake Chabot Regional Park and the San Leandro city limit,
is privately-owned. After assurances that no arrows could conceivably leave the property and that the new venture wouldn’t affect current uses and recreation in the area, the MAC gave an effusive “yes” to the developers.
“This is a very neat use of an underutilized property,” said MAC Vice-Chair Bill Mulgrew.
Neighbor and speaker Kathy Ralph said she had some noise and fire safety concerns, but also agreed it was a positive plan for the site.
“It looks like a good use of the property to me,” said Ralph. see MAC on page 11
School District Considers Its Own Foundation
By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Castro Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) is exploring the potential for establishing a School District Foundation, but it will likely take at least a year to get something up and running.
At its regular Board Meeting on January 22, the Trustees were presented with an overview of the idea of creating its own Foundation, how it would compare to other Castro Valley-based Foundations, and options for administering the foundation.
According to the presentation, the School District Foundation would be a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization focused on seeking endowments or bequests through donations, a will, or an estate plan to generate ongoing income. The Foundation could also provide long-term sustainability and a legacy of support for those who might want to leave a long-term contribution to education by creating a named fund or scholarship in their honor.
“We are in the very early stages of this process,” see DISTRICT on page 3
PHOTOS BY MIKE McGUIRE
Director Rick Hollander at Nobody’s Dogs Perfekt pet adoption center at 3810 Castro Valley Blvd., on the corner of Forest Avenue, in Castro Valley.
Castro Valley Weather January 29
- February 2, 2025
Hope 4 the Heart Food Bank Is Looking for Financial Help
By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Hope 4 the Heart (H4H) Food Bank in Hayward has been working for 25 years to provide fresh and non-perishable food to organizations, families, and individuals in need. However, a string of setbacks has Alameda County’s second-largest food bank in financial straits, according to volunteers there. Several key donors have restructured their grant priorities, according
to H4H Fund Development
Volunteer Melissa Davini. She says H4H runs an incredibly lean organization with no paid staff, rent, or fundraising expenses. She fears that without help, budget shortfalls may force a closure.
“My father, a rancher who has been volunteering with H4H for years, told me about their plight. I was devastated to think their critical poverty-alleviation work would end,”
Melissa Davini told the Forum.
“I am not a funding expert, but
I have worked for nonprofits my whole career. I reached out to [H4H Executive Director] Victoria Popejoy. Together, we have been working to find new funding sources for the food bank: We have applied to grants, written to supply partners, and are now reaching out to the public for help.”
H4H feeds approximately 16,000 individuals monthly and supports the outreach work of more than 50 local nonprofit organizations (food pantries, see H4H on page 10
Local Officials React to New Policy On Immigration; Workshop Slated
By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
President Donald Trump’s plans of conducting mass deportations and raids have several Bay Area communities on edge. Now, local officials are speaking out to clear up any misinformation.
Alameda County Sheriff’s Office (ACSO) officials say they want to put residents at ease.
On January 21, Sheriff Yesenia Sanchez stated that her Office was aware of false stories that targeted enforcement by U.S. Immigration and Customs (ICE) was underway. In the name of transparency, Sheriff Sanchez noted that ACSO does not get involved in ICE activities because it drains its own resources and weakens its community relationships.
The notice said that ACSO does not collect immigration status information, or any data related to their status.
Additionally, California Assemblymember Liz Ortega (District 20), Eden United Church of Christ, and Centro Legal de la Raza are hosting a free workshop to inform community members being targeted by the Trump Administration of their rights. The “Know Your Rights” Workshop is expected to include immigration law experts and information about people’s rights and protections.
“I share Sheriff Sanchez’s commitment to SB 54 and standing with our immigrant communities. That’s why my office is hosting a virtual know your rights training about legal rights when interacting with immigration enforcement,”
Assemblymember Liz Ortega told the Forum. The event will be held on Saturday, February 1, at the Eden United Church of Christ on Birch Street in Hayward. The event starts at 9:00 a.m. and runs until 10:30 a.m. More information can be found at https://a20.asmdc.org/. Among the actions ordered by the Trump administration last week, the U.S. Department of Defense has said that it will provide military aircraft to deport more than 5,000 people. Border Patrol has detained in San Diego and El Paso, Texas. The U.S. has halted the processing of migrants and asylum seekers as well as canceling existing migrants’ appointments. The administration said it has expanded the powers of ICE, including carrying out raids.
Sheriff’s Reports
compiled by Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
Drove Drunk and Drugged
Sunday, January 26: At 12:26 a.m., Sheriff’s deputies pulled over and arrested a 32-yearold CV man on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. The man was traveling on the Boulevard near Stanton Avenue when deputies pulled him over for a traffic violation. The man failed his field sobriety test and then became confrontational. Deputies additionally charged him with resisting arrest. The man was taken into custody.
Family Fight
Saturday, January 25: At 10:30 p.m., a 9-1-1 call about a loud and aggressive-sounding argument sent deputies to an apartment on Anita Court near Anita Avenue. There, they arrested a 30-year-old CV man on suspicion of assault on a family member, assault on a minor, and false imprisonment. The man was handcuffed and taken into custody. The victims were treated at the scene.
Elder Abuse
Saturday, January 25: At 12:35 a.m., deputies arrested a 61-year-old CV woman on suspicion of elder abuse and making death threats. The woman was at a home on Ravenwood Place near Center Street when deputies responded to a call about an altercation at the home. The woman was taken into custody.
see REPORTS on page 11
Wiggle Rumps ReTaiL Grand Opening: Paws-itively Fabulous
By Michael Singer CASTRO VALLEY FORUM
After years of grooming pets, Wiggle Rumps opened its official “ReTaiL” site on January 22. More than 100 guests gathered to mark the special occasion, which featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony facilitated by the Castro Valley/ Eden Area Chamber of Commerce. Retired pastor Don Ott delivered a heartfelt blessing over the Short family and their exciting new venture.
Misti Short, owner of Wiggle Rumps ReTaiL, said she was also honored to have the support of the Alameda County Sheriff’s Crime Prevention Unit, which joined the celebration in recognition of her unwavering support for the community through her Dogs & Deputies event. Through proceeds from Dogs & Deputies, Misti was able to make generous donations to CALICO and George Mark House, which she presented alongside Deputy Pola.
“This grand opening is a reminder of the amazing connections we can create when businesses and communities come together,” Short said. Attendees enjoyed the lively event, with over 100 gift baskets for beloved pets generously donated by the vendors who proudly support Wiggle Rumps ReTaiL. The celebration was elevated by an extraordinary catering experience provided by Charcuterie-Isch, which featured an see WIGGLE on back page
District: How Foundation Would Differ From
continued from front page CVUSD Superintendent Parvin Ahmadi told the Forum. “This would operate separately from the district and help raise additional funds to support key educational initiatives, student programs, and district-wide innovations.”
Superintendent Ahmadi said the district conducted research that found school district foundations can provide funding for programs beyond the district’s core budget but noted that any funds from this School District Foundation would not be mixed in with its operating budget or the funds CVUSD gets from the federal, state, or county government, or any other voter-approved bond measure.
“We’re not sure entirely what this Foundation might help fund at this time, but it does need to be used for educational programs,” Superintendent Ahmadi said.
The Board considered three administration options: creating its own Fundraising Organization, creating a District Committee, Subcommittee, or Department within the Alameda County Board of Education, or joining an existing outside fundraising organization with an established foundation.
The Board asked staff to pursue the third option as it would allow CVUSD to access different investment strategies, minimize operational fees to no more than 8 percent, and the ability to connect with potential donors and marketing support.
The proposed School District Foundation would vastly differ from Castro Valley’s
Others
two other school-oriented Foundations, the Castro Valley Education Foundation (CVEF) and the Castro Valley Arts Foundation (CVAF). CVEF raised more than $20,000 for school art and music programs across the various CVUSD schools during its Spring for Education 2024 event. The Foundation has a popular scholarship program that awarded 76 scholarships, totaling $121,000, last year. Students can apply for memorial scholarships, including the “Oh the Places You’ll Go!” Scholarship in honor of Amanda Korbas or the Nicholas “Dubb” Whitaker Memorial Scholarship. There is also the Dr. Mary Jane Stamm $20,000 scholarship, which is awarded to a student based on merit and maintaining specific academic targets. These awards are distributed on Senior Night each spring.
CVEF also sponsors an Innovation Grant program for teachers, staff, students, and parents who promote academsee DISTRICT on back page
Misti Short, owner of Wiggle Rumps ReTaiL, watches proudly as Castro Valley/ Eden Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Gary Slate extends the ceremonial red ribbon to be cut at the grand opening event on January 22.
‘You’re a
Good Man, Charlie Brown’ Comes to Castro Valley February 14
By Terry Liebowitz SPECIAL TO THE FORUM
Looking for a special Valentine gift? Charlie Brown, Lucy, Snoopy and their friends are coming to the Castro Valley Center for the Arts on February 14 and 15 at 7:30 pm and February 15 and 16 at 2:00pm in the musical production of You’re a Good Man, CHARLIE BROWN presented by Castro Valley Arts Foundation and TMC Arts. Charlie Brown and the entire Peanuts gang
explore life’s great questions as they play baseball, struggle with homework, sing songs, swoon over their crushes, and celebrate the joy of friendship. This classic is a favorite of all ages!
Producers Dayna Speed and Berenice Sullivan agreed, “We are very excited to bring CHARLIE BROWN to our audiences. After our success with Hunchback and Bright Star, we wanted to concentrate on musicals for the whole family in 2025!” Their cast
of 14 stellar actors are under the direction of Dayna Speed, Music Director Delphean Quan, Vocal Director Sue Susoeff, and Choreographer Cat Reeves.
You’re a Good Man, CHARLIE BROWN is based on Charles Schulz’s comic strip with book, music and lyrics by Clark Gesner. It’s hard to believe that Peanuts is celebrating its 75th anniversary this fall! Whether reading the comics, watching Peanuts shows on TV or enjoying the
iconic characters on a sweatshirt or a greeting card, these quirky, but loveable, characters are a part of the fabric of our lives. The first cartoon strip was printed in 7 newspapers nationwide October 2, 1950. At its peak, Peanuts ran in over 2,600 newspapers, with a readership of 355 million in 75 countries, and was translated into 21 languages. Tickets are available: cvartsfoundation.org or call 510-889-8961. 19501 Redwood Road. Free parking. Handicap accessible.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
Saturday, February 1
Broken Pencils: A Visit with Author J.R. Rice
Local, award winning author J.R. Rice comes to the Castro Valley Library this Saturday, February 1, from 12:30 to 2pm to discuss his book Broken Pencils. The author will do a reading from his book as well a poetry performance and an author Q & A. The Castro Valley Library is located at 3600 Norbridge Avenue and is wheel chair accessible.
Sunday, February 2
Art Reception for Liz Berg and George Phillips
Longtime Castro Valley residents, textile artist Liz Berg and nature painter George Phillips are currently showing their work at the Castro Valley Center for the Arts. Jazz with Susan Sarti and Bruce Cassady. The public is invited to a reception this Sunday, February 2, from 1 to 3 pm in the Lobby and the Exhibition Room.
Sunday, February 2
Castro Valley Reads 2025
Castro Valley Reads is an annual literary event that asks our residents to read and discuss the same book. It builds community by encouraging a thoughtful exchange of ideas and celebrates the joy of reading together. Castro Valley Reads is facilitated by the Castro Valley Library and generously funded by the Friends of the Castro Valley Library. Registration for the 8th annual Castro Valley Reads begins today, and our special kick-off event takes place this Sunday, February 2 from 2 to 3 pm (no registration required). For 2025 the library will be celebrating Mexican-American history and culture with a work of contemporary fiction called The House of Broken Angels by Luis Alberto Urrea.
Tuesday, February 4
Castro Valley Rotary Hosts Author Jason S. Matthews
Jason S. Matthews, best-selling author, national speaker and President and CEO of Matthews Financial & Insurance Solutions & Gibson Monroe Wealth Advisors will speak on Planning Ahead to Navigate Financial Strategies Under Trump’s Tax Policies. A buffet lunch and the speech competition will take place at Redwood Canyon Golf Course (17007 Redwood Road, Castro Valley) from noon to 1:30pm. Reservations must be made by 9pm on Sunday, February 2 at castrovalleyrotary.org
Saturday, February 8
RCS Booster Club All You Can Eat Crab, Tri Tip Dinner
RCHS Booster Club President Lea Leyva is excited about the February 8 “All You Can Eat Crab and Tri Tip Dinner” and Auction in the Bruce D. Johnson Gymnasium on the Middle School and High School Campus at 1000 Paseo Grande in San Lorenzo. Doors open at 4pm. The live auction will begin at 6:30pm. Tickets can be purchased at https://form.jotform.com/223484568555165. Auction items are being sought with all profits going into maintaining and expanding the athletic experiences for RCS students. Contact Director of Athletics Scott Babinat at 510-317-8990 or Booster Club President Lea Leyva at 510-565-8596.
Sunday, February 9
Castro Valley Orchestra Free Concert
Luis Alberto Urrea
Castro Valley Orchestra will open 2025 with a free concert on Sunday, February 9 at 2pm at Castro Valley Center for the Arts, 19501 Redwood Rd. The program will include works by Bizet, Humperdinck, and Mozart. Ross Gershenson, retired Fremont music teacher and member of the Oakland Symphony, will perform the Horn Concerto by Lee Actor. A reception to meet the soloist and members of the orchestra will immediately follow the concert.
PHOTO COURTESY OF BERENICE SULLIVAN
Become a Money-Smart You: Practical Steps to Save, Thrive
We all know the feeling. That little pang of anxiety when we check our bank balance, or the frustration of feeling like we’re working hard but not quite getting ahead financially. It’s a common experience, and the good news is that you’re not alone.
The even better news?
Cultivating a more money-conscious mindset and actively saving are skills that anyone can learn, and they don’t require drastic lifestyle overhauls. It’s about making mindful choices and building healthy financial habits, one small step at a time. So, let’s dive into some practical and approachable ways you can start saving today and feel more in control of your financial future.
The first step, and perhaps the most crucial, is understanding exactly where your money is going. Many of us operate on autopilot, spending without really tracking where our funds are disappearing. Think of it
like trying to navigate a city without a map – you might get to some places, but you’re probably going to take some unnecessary detours. This is where budgeting comes in. Now, the word “budget” can sometimes feel like a dirty word, conjuring up images of restriction and deprivation. But a budget is simply a tool, a financial map that allows you to see your income and expenses clearly. There are numerous ways to create a budget, from the traditional pen-and-paper approach to using sophisticated budgeting apps. Find what works best for you. However you choose to do it, the goal is to categorize your spending into needs (like rent, utilities, groceries) and wants (like dining out, entertainment, new clothes). Understanding this distinction is the key to unlocking substantial savings. Once you have a clear picture, you can start making informed decisions about where to potentially cut back.
Speaking of cutting back, let’s talk about those “wants.” We all deserve to enjoy life, and we shouldn’t deprive ourselves entirely. However, becoming money-conscious involves asking ourselves some critical questions. Do you really need that new gadget, or is it just an impulse buy? Could you wait a few days and see if you still feel the same desire? Could you find a similar item for less? Often, we buy things that bring us fleeting joy, but don’t actually enhance our overall well-being. Instead of mindlessly adding items to your online shopping cart, consider creating a “wish list” and revisiting it after some time. You’ll likely find that many items lose their initial appeal, saving you money and potentially reducing clutter. Another great strategy is the “30-day rule,” which involves waiting 30 days before making a non-essential purchase. This gives you time to truly evaluate whether the item is worth the money.
In the realm of expenses, there are the big-ticket items that often eat up a significant portion of our budget. Housing costs are a prime example. If you’re renting, consider looking for more affordable options, perhaps even moving to a slightly less central location if that works with your lifestyle. If you’re a homeowner, think about refinancing your mortgage to secure a better interest rate or explore energy-efficient upgrades to lower your utility bills. Even small adjustments, like adjusting your thermostat a degree or two, can make a significant difference in the long run. Transportation is another area ripe for savings. If feasible, consider biking, walking, or public transport instead of driving every day. Not only will this save money, but it’s also good for your physical and mental health. When you do need to drive, think about carpooling or combining trips to maximize your fuel efficiency. see MONEY on page 11
Cultivating a more money-conscious mindset and actively saving are skills that anyone can learn, and they don’t require drastic lifestyle overhauls.
By Carl Medford, CRS Special to the Forum
2024’s Sluggish Market Carrying Over Into 2025
By Carl Medford, CRS Special to the Forum
For those paying attention to the real estate market, 2024 was the worst year since 1995. Sales were down as rates continued above 6% and prices continued to rise. So far, 2025 is not looking much better. At the end of the day, the problem roughly falls into 2 categories:
High interest rates are providing a barrier to both buyers and sellers.
For those looking to buy a home, it is obvious: rates over 6% do not appeal to many buyer’s budgets. If we do not see rates fall, we can anticipate a slower market with fewer buyers willing to commit. Even then, however, we are still facing an inventory shortage due to the lack of listings, so those buyers that are out shopping
THE FORUM CROSSWORD
have less to choose from. This, in turn, is pushing prices even higher.
For sellers, the idea of giving up a low mortgage to buy a home at a much higher rate is simply not palatable. As a result, many sellers are deciding to hunker down and stay put and many, as mentioned in previous articles, are deciding to stay in their homes for the long haul.
Increasing prices are causing significant problems for both buyers and sellers. It is common sense that escalating prices are causing grief for buyers. Many have been priced out and those that remain are struggling to land their own slice of the American dream of home ownership. It is also causing problems for sellers. The higher prices go, the more difficult it becomes to sell. A significant percentage of bay area homeowners – due to the fact that they bought when prices were much lower – would incur a significant capital tax burden upon closing. As prices increase, so do the potential taxes. For some, the idea of giving that much money to the government is simply out of the question. The only real solution would be to increase the sellers tax exclusion from the current
$250,000 to $500,000 per person.
There are also those 55 and under who currently have relatively low property taxes but who would, upon selling and repurchasing, have their property taxes significantly increase. For those looking to sell to buy smaller homes, they could easily end up paying more property taxes than before. Once again, selling does not make sense.
The real solution is much lower interest rates: let’s hope we see reductions sooner than later.
Carl Medford is a licensed Realtor with Keller Williams Realty and a licensed general contractor. This article is sponsored by the Central County Marketing Association.
For Small Backyards, Plant Compatible Fruit Trees Together
By Buzz Bertolero
The Dirt Gardener
QIs it possible to grow various fruit trees in a small backyard? I’m considering peaches, nectarines, apples, and cherries.
AToday’s smaller lot sizes’ make it challenging to plant various deciduous fruit trees. One way to do this is by planting three compatible trees in a single hole. Plant the trees in a triangle two feet apart and slightly bent at an outward angle. This keeps the center of the trees open for good air circulation. Annual pruning will keep one variety from dominating the group. Select varieties that ripen at different times for fresh fruit throughout the summer. Here are some fruit tree combinations that work.
Combination cherries, Bing, Black Tartartian, and Royal Ann, are very popular, and cross-pollination is assured. Pick any three varieties of Peach, Nectarine, Plum, and Apricot or mix any combination of these trees. Apple, Pear, and Asian Pear are other combinations to consider, but an Apple, Cherry, Peach/Nectarine combination would not work. If in doubt, ask your local nursery professional for a second opinion. Semidwarf fruit trees are not as small growing as the name indicates. They grow twelve to fifteen feet high with an eight to ten-foot wide. Instead, plant Ultra Dwarf Fruit Tree. They grow eight to ten feet high and are perfect for small-yard orchards. You’ll find a complete list of edible fruits online at your favorite garden center. One final thought: all deciduous
fruit trees are not watered equally. Once established, the stone fruits, those with a pit, cherry, apricot, peaches, nectarines, and plum, suffer from root rot from over-watering. Planting under their canopy is not recommended. Once established, they’re watered every three weeks with a large basin around them. The pome fruits, Pears, Apples, and Asian Pears tolerate much more frequent watering so that you can plant under them. Fruit trees are not inexpensive, so be diligent to get the right trees in the right spot.
QMy brother has two big persimmon trees that give tons of fruit. He plans to get rid of one of them. The trees are about eleven years old. They are about eight to ten feet high and six to seven feet
wide. Should I hire an expert to move the tree, or can my brother dig it up and replant it in my backyard? Also, do you need to have two persimmon trees to cross-pollinate with each other for fruit production?
AIt is a shame that these trees have to be removed. Persimmons are slow-growing, so to get mature specimens takes
time. Unlike cherries and other fruit trees, persimmons do not require pollination by a second tree. They can be successfully transplanted. The best time to move these trees is now through the middle of March. You must take a large root ball, probably two feet by two feet. The size and weight of the ball make it problematic for most gardeners. I would google “ Mature Tree Relocation.” For compa-
nies that provide this service. Here is one.
https://www.cbctreeservice.com/free-estimate/?2=Tree-Service&msclkid=4fffbe63186b1beaec41d91b9fc0169c Buzz Bertolero is an Advanced California Certified Nursery Professional. The Dirt Gardener’s website is www. dirtgardener.com, and questions can be sent by email to buzz@dirtgardener.com.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
You can run a classified ad for a little as $35 a week. Your ad runs in both of our newspapers, the Castro Valley Forum on Wednesday and the San Leandro Times on Thursday. You can also save by placing your ad on our website at castrovalleyforum.com or sanleandrotimes.com. We’ll call you for your credit or debit card info for payment.
To place an ad by phone call Patrick Vadnais at 510-614-1560, Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
CONCRETE SERVICE
S.L. CONCRETE SERVICE Driveways, Sidewalks, Stamped Concrete, Retaining Walls, Tree and Drain Service. Lic.#982202. 510856-8937.
CONTRACTOR SERVICE
NOTICETO READERS
California law requires that contractors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. State Law also requires that contractors include their license number on all advertising. Advertisers appearing on this page without a license number indicate that the contractor is not licensed. You can check the status of your licensed contractor at www.cslb.ca.gov or (800) 321-2752. Unlicensed contractors taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board.
FENCES/DECKS
*SPECIALIZING IN WOOD FENCES, DECKS & RETAINING WALLS. Replace or repair paved walkways, yard cleaning, tree work, brush removal (fire prevention... don’t get insurance cancelled). Insured & Bonded #8189. Jerry 510-410-2427.
Fence wobbly? Call Randy's Fence Reinforcement and save thousands! 510-706-6189.
GARDENING
*BEAUTYGARDEN LANDSCAPING
Design - Construction - Maintenance. Cleanups, New Lawn, Artificial Grass, Irrigation, Patios, Pathways, Brick, Stone, Concrete Fence/ Decks. Free Estimates! Lic.#925130. 510-691-8852. www.beautygardenlandscaping.com
JAIME’S GARDENING
Maintenance, Trimming, Cleanups, Hauling, Sprinkler Repair/ Timers. FREE Estimates. Insured. 510-299-9583
NAVA'SCOMPLETE LANDSCAPING: Mowing, trees, cleanup, hauling, FREE estimates. 510 512-5857.
HANDYMAN SERVICE
HANDYMAN 35 Years. Senior Discounts. Native. All Phases. In and Outside Work. Tom 510-427-0455
HAULING SERVICE
HAULING: Small and Big Jobs. Furniture, Concrete, Wood, Trash, Metal, Demolition. Also house inside/ outside cleanups. 510-715-1578.
MISC. FOR SALE
Chinese Cabinet$50, Baby Matress $25. Call 510-575-4620.
HobbicoAvistar 40 mk2 awarf RC air-plane $50. 510-825-8412.
8 Valentine cards 1920-1930’s. Mechanical, pop ups, lacy, unique. $5 each. 510-538-1765.
aluminum folding Transport Chair, blue frame,black seat. Call/ text Janet 510-470-2834. Cable snow chains, new, never used. Z-Chain #Z-547. $40. Call Steve 510537-0326. MISC. FOR SALE
NEED REMODELING?
How about a new kitchen or bath? Check the TIMES "Classified Ads" & The TIMES "Home Service" ads for help!
LANDLORDS – Advertise your units! Avacancy day is money
forever ... R. Bowman
RENTALS/RV SPACES
RV/ Trailer space in San Leandro and Oakland& Hayward. $950/ month. Call 510-481-9901.
TREE SERVICE
Perfekt: “Our Animals Need Homes”
continued from front page
The rent really zoomed, though, when they were forced to move out of the mall as new owners decided to gut the interior before rebuilding and didn’t renew most leases there.
The new owners haven’t finalized their planned new focus for the mall.
For at least the next few months, though, Hollander and a cast of volunteers will try to find new permanent homes or foster homes for the animals and are looking for people who can take them in. Pet adoptions are down, however, not only at this shelter but at shelters in general, Hollander said.
He said that in many cases, people are discovering they can’t properly care for the animals they adopted during the pandemic.
Hollander has been unsuccessful at finding a new home for the center itself.
“People keep telling us they’ve seen a vacancy sign around town, but it’s likely
we’ve already talked to the owner, and we can’t afford it. We know pretty much what’s out there.”
Hollander said the landlord hasn’t asked them to move so far. New possibilities are usually discussed by phone, while a short, to-the-point letter announces a lease non-renewal for commercial tenants.
“I’m a little bit nervous when I open the mail every day,” Hollander said. “But please, our animals need homes, and our pet supplies are still for sale, or for some items, free.”
You can find more information about Nobody’s Dogs Perfekt and profiles of available pets on its website: www. nobodysperfektdogs.org
Coming to Smalltown Society
Wednesday, January 29:
The Creative LAB
The Creative Lab is Smalltown Society’s “open house,” a welcoming space for community members to create, collaborate, and connect. There’s no set agenda—just time, gear, and inspiration for your artistic endeavors. Bring your project, instrument, or simply yourself and meet fellow musicians, painters, filmmakers, and more! Our doors open at 7:30pm at Smalltown Society’s office - The Clinic, 22222 Red-
wood Rd, Castro Valley, near the gymnasium behind Trader Joes. For more information please reach out to us via email at info@smalltownsociety.com.
Wednesday, February 5:
The LAB featuring local country artist Tracy Jones
Local country artist Tracy Jones is headlining this month’s edition of The LAB— Smalltown Society’s monthly gathering for songwriters, poets, and artists. The LAB is a space to share, collaborate, and
Author Rice Coming to CV Library
Local, award winning author J.R. Rice comes to the Castro Valley Library this Saturday, February 1, from 12:30 to 2pm to discuss his book Broken Pencils. The author will do a reading from his book as well a poetry performance and an author Q & A.
Broken Pencils tells the story of Jonah Tarver, a troubled Oakland teenager grappling with his parents’ troubled marriage, his own mental disorder, and the weight of his best friend’s death, embarks on a desperate quest to find meaning in life. On his eighteenth birthday, coinciding with his Senior prom, Jonah, along with his girlfriend Taniesha, his best friend Trevon, and a group of peers, spirals into a night of reckless indulgence in drugs and alcohol in the vibrant city of San Francisco. As tensions escalate and emotions run high, Jonah finds himself thrust into a gripping twelvehour journey through the dark underbelly of San Francisco’s nightlife, forever altering his perception of the world.
J.R. Rice is a Black man, writer, teacher, and spoken word artist, born and raised in Oakland, California. He has a B.A in Creative Writing and an English Education teaching credential from California State University of Long Beach. While studying abroad in Greece, he was mentored by the author, George Crane. His novel, Broken Pencils earned the 2024 Literary Titan Gold Book Award, 2024 Pencraft Summer Best Book Award winner for Young Adult Coming of Age Fiction, and the 2024 Hawthorne Prize Finalist for Best Fiction. To learn more about J.R. Rice, please visit his website at www.jrrice.com.
H4H: Provides Food and Diapers to Local Families
continued from page 2 shelters, soup kitchens, senior centers, and after-school programs). The food bank gets donations from about 35 local food suppliers, then sorts and redistributes more than 4,700,000 pounds of donated food to the community annually.
In addition to food, H4H also provides diapers, toiletries, and other non-perishable items to local families. Food and other supplies are also delivered to affordable housing apartments, senior complexes, and trailer parks, extending H4H’s reach to an additional 700 households per week.
Despite its public outreach
and work with government partners, H4H has an annual budget of about $100,000 and makes every dollar count toward its mission of feeding the hungry.
“Executive Director Popejoy, a hard-working woman who also runs an in-home daycare, has personally supplemented the food bank’s operations to help make ends meet over the past few years,” Davini said. “She has exhausted her ability to fill the budget shortfalls of the food bank personally and is staring down closure.”
For more information, including how to donate time or money, visit their website: hope4theheart.org/donate/
connect with fellow creatives in the community. Each event begins with a performance and interview featuring a special guest artist, and this month, we’re thrilled to welcome Tracy Jones! Afterward, participants can take the stage in an open-mic format to share new or in-progress pieces with our artist community. The LAB starts at 7:30 and is invite-only. To inquire about an invitation and get more information, contact us at info@smalltownsociety.com.
Nobody’s Dogs Perfekt pet adoption center located at 3810 Castro Valley Blvd.
Money: Build Your Savings
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One fantastic way to build your savings is by automating the process. Instead of relying solely on your willpower to transfer money to a savings account, set up automatic transfers from your checking to your savings account on a regular basis, such as every payday. This “pay yourself first” strategy ensures that you’re saving, even before you have a chance to spend it. You can start small; even small amounts add up significantly over time due to the power of compounding interest.
Explore different types of savings accounts, some of which offer higher interest rates than others. Make sure to do your research and find an option that best aligns with your needs and goals. And remember, savings isn’t just for a rainy day fund; consider setting up separate savings accounts for different goals, like a down payment on a home or a special vacation. This makes those savings feel much more tangible and motivating.
Beyond saving, being money-conscious also involves actively seeking ways to grow your income. Consider taking on a side hustle, whether it’s freelancing in your area of expertise, participating in online surveys, or selling items you no longer need. The opportunities are vast and varied. Not only does this increase your earning potential, but it can also be a great way to develop new skills and explore different interests. While you’re aiming to increase your income, don’t forget the importance of financial literacy. Take time to learn about investing, retirement planning, and debt management. The more you understand these concepts, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed financial decisions. Finally, remember that saving money and being more money conscious isn’t about deprivation or living a life of scarcity. It’s about taking control of your finances, aligning your spending with your values, and building a more secure and comfortable future. It’s about making mindful choices that support your long-term goals and contribute to your overall well-being. It’s a journey, not a destination, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. The key is to learn from them, adjust your approach, and keep moving forward.
The Alameda County Resource Conservation District (ACRCD) is pleased to announce that Ian Howell has been appointed as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Ian holds a master’s degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Pennsylvania and brings over a decade of experience in resource conservation and project management with a deep commitment to advancing sustainable land management practices in Alameda County. “Ian’s leadership and extensive experience in resource conservation make him an excellent fit for the COO position,” said Marilyn Harvey, Chief Executive Officer of ACRCD. “His proven ability to manage complex programs and build strong partnerships will continue to enhance our mission to promote sustainable land use practices and environmental stewardship in Alameda County.”
Reports: Joy Ride Ends in Arrests; Woman Refused to Leave Property ACRCD Announces Howell New Chief Operating Officer
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Joy Ride Ends in Arrests
Monday, January 20: at 6:45 p.m., deputies arrested two men following a traffic stop on Leslie Avenue near Redwood Road. The 34-year-old driver was charged with driving a stolen vehicle and not having a valid registration. The 33-year-old passenger was
Ian Howell
As COO, Ian Howell will play a pivotal role in managing the day-to-day operations of the ACRCD, working closely with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Project Management team. His responsibilities include supporting revenue development, serving as the Assistant Human Resources Officer, supervising staff, and providing strategic oversight for the District’s technical programs. Additionally, he will support the CEO in
strategic planning, budgeting, and grant management.
Ian has been a dedicated member of the ACRCD team for 11 years, serving as a Resource Conservationist. During this time, he has successfully managed a variety of grant-funded programs and contracts with agency partners, including the Alameda Creek Healthy Watersheds, Rangeland Resilience, Carbon Farming, and Compost for Agriculture initiatives. His work has fostered collaboration with public agency partners and private agricultural producers, addressing critical land management challenges across the county. He looks forward to leveraging his experience in his new role to further the ACRCD’s goals and vision.
The ACRCD Board, CEO, and staff congratulate Ian Howell on this well-deserved appointment and are excited to support him in his expanded leadership role.
MAC: Site Renovations
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The MAC also approved a site development review for renovation of a vacant building at 21022 Marshall Street (former CVSan building) into a temporary Alameda County Fire Station while the current Station No. 25 at 22306 San Miguel Drive is being extensively renovated.
The ACFD says that the goal is to be out of the old San Miguel Station and into the Marshall Street interim location by July 1.
The renovations are part of Bond Measure X. In 2020, the unincorporated communities approved the measure, which will issue $90 million in general obligations bonds for outdated fire stations. Assessed at 1.6 cents per $100,000 of assessed home value, it costs the average Alameda County homeowner about $142 annually.
In addition to the Station No. 25 work, Station No. 7 is proposed to be completely rebuilt adjacent to the current facility on an empty plot of land at 6855 Villarreal Drive.
At this week’s meeting,
the MAC also approved an application to build a single-family home on a currently empty parcel at 16674 Winding Boulevard.
Finally, the MAC continued an item that would have allowed a conditional use permit to be renewed on a now-expired permit for a T-Mobile cell phone tower at 10410 Crow Canyon Road.
The applicants had planned a mono-cypress faux tree tower and the MAC asked for something a bit more in keeping with the current landscape of the area- the tower would be on a hill crest, taller than natural trees in the area.
“Can we ask for a better landscaping plan for the cell tower?” asked MAC Chair Chuck Moore. “It’s on a ridge. It’s very visible.”
The MAC acknowledged that Castro Valley has had issues with unsightly and sometimes even “phallic” faux-tree towers in the past and asked the applicants to consider more branches or an otherwise more natural look before coming back to the MAC at a future date.
charged with providing a false ID, possessing illegal burglar tools, and stolen property. He was also served a warrant for a previous charge. Deputies took the men to Santa Rita Jail.
Refused to Leave Property
Monday, January 20: At 10:57 a.m., a 54-year-old woman with no permanent residence
was arrested on suspicion of refusing to leave a business property despite requests from the management. Deputies were called to a motel on Castro Valley Boulevard near Stanton Avenue after the site manager called to complain about the woman loitering for several hours. The woman was taken into custody.
Twylla Pocock Johnson
wylla Pocock Johnson died peacefully at home at the age of 100. She was born in 1924 to Luke and Hazel Pocock in St. Anthony, Idaho. She worked on the family potato farm until attending the University of Utah. Following her graduation in sociology, she counseled at various organizations, ultimately retiring from Child Protective Services in Alameda County. A dedicated fabric artist, Twylla served as president of the Home Economics Club in high school. She later studied tailoring and quiltmaking; her quilts earned awards and are treasured by her family. Twylla is predeceased by her husband, Forrest Johnson. She leaves behind son, Brian Johnson (Lani); daughter, Deb Atwood (Kimball); daughter, Jennifer Banker (Steve); daughter, Carolyn Crocker (Randall); and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family requests donations in Twylla’s honor to The Cystic Fibrosis Research Institute and The LAM Foundation.
Colleen Olivia Jewett
Colleen Olivia (Millard) Jewett was born in Santa Clara, California in August of 1938 to her mother Lucille Mathilda Millard and her father Burton F. Millard and grew up along the San Francisco Peninsula with her older brother Burton F. Millard Jr. She earned her teaching credential from San Jose State University and was a member of the Phi Mu Sorority Eta Theta chapter there. After graduating, Colleen taught 2nd grade in Concord, California. Dancing at the popular Santa Clara teenage Wutzit Club is how Colleen met Paul Jewett. Years later they reconnected in college, married in 1960 and raised two daughters in San Leandro and Castro Valley, California. Colleen spent countless hours volunteering at their schools and extracurricular activities as well as at First Baptist Church of Castro Valley and with the Junior League San Leandro chapter. When her grandchildren came along, she poured a limitless amount of time and love into them. Throughout her life, Santa Cruz was Colleen’s favorite place to visit. She enjoyed the beach, boardwalk, wharf, shops, the lighthouse and walking along Westcliff Drive especially with Paul and her family. Colleen passed away at The Parkview assisted living community in Pleasanton, California on September 7, 2024. The family is beyond grateful to caregivers: Grace Taiwo Oluwabiyi and Kenneth Vaz of Visiting Angels in Alameda, The Parkview and Hope Hospice staff who cared for Colleen and supported her family in the last days of her life. Colleen was preceded in death by her parents and dear brother. She is survived by husband Paul Jewett, daughters Sherrie Jewett and Stephanie Jewett (William Mitchell) and grandchildren Olivia Arrabit, Domenic Arrabit and Claire Mitchell. She cherished her connections to her cousins (Rebecca Clarke, Carol Bruton, Judith McTigue, Kathleen McTigue) and all her nieces and nephews. Those interested in honoring her memory with a donation, consider the American Heart Asso ciation or the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Eagles Basketball Completes Season with a Perfect Record
The Redwood Christian Middle School Boys basketball “A Team” completed the 202425 season with a perfect 13-0 record, a division championship and conference championship in the Bay Area Christian Schools Athletic League.
The Eagles were awarded a first round bye and began playoffs by hosting North Creek Academy from Walnut Creek. The Eagles were able to cruise home with a 50-40 final score. The Eagles were led by Will Farrington’s 20 points.
The next round featured a division rematch with Valley Christian-Dublin. Four Eagles players led the way with double digit scoring. Will Farrington led with 19 points followed
by 17 from Davion Berry, 11 from Kayden Wu and 10 from Anthony Osborn. In the championship, the Eagles were matched up with another division champion in Cornerstone Christian of Antioch. RCS came out strong and played their best game of the season by jumping out early to an 11-0 start. The Eagles went to halftime up 42-18 and were able to maintain distance the rest of the way to win the championship 65-39. The most impressive part of the game was that RCS only gave up one three pointer in the game to a very good perimeter team. The Eagles ended with three players scoring in double figures led by Davion Berry with 18
points, Anthony Osborn with 16 points and Kayden Wu with 10 points.
While RCS ended with 4 starters averaging double figures on the season, they also received key contributions from Nick Sherman, Noli Dawit, Sam Hill, Amaru Guanzon and Josh Redemer who also had at least one start on the season and had significant impacts on the team success by filling various roles on the team depending on the situations presented each game.
Coach Babinat and Coach Skjong appreciate the efforts “by all the players and incredible support of the families involved in making this season such a great success!”
Genevieve Koceniak Named to Furman University Dean’s List
Genevieve Koceniak of Castro Valley, earned a place on Furman University’s dean’s list for the 2024 fall semester. Furman’s dean’s list is composed of full-time undergraduate students who earn a grade point average of 3.4 or higher on a four-point system.
Furman is a private, undergraduate liberal arts and sciences university in Greenville, South Carolina. The university is noted for its rigorous academic program and its 940-acre campus is widely recognized as one of the most beautiful in the nation.
At the heart of the university’s academic experience is The Furman Advantage, a personalized, four-year pathway that combines engaged learning with immersive experiences outside the classroom. Learn more at www.furman. edu/furman-advantage/
Wiggle: Pet Supply Store Now Open
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incredible food art replica of Wiggle Rumps ReTaiL’s iconic poodle logo.
In addition to being a standard pet store, Wiggle Rumps ReTaiL offers high-quality pet foods, treats, and supplies. The store carries a wide variety of brands, including health-fo-
cused options like Nulo, known for its high animal-based protein, low-carb, and digestive-health formulas.
For professional groomers, Wiggle Rumps ReTaiL features a Pro Groomers Shop, offering an exclusive selection of clippers, blades, shampoos, and all the accessories a
groomer needs. Pet owners can also enjoy self-wash stations to make bath time easier, and the store offers fun pet accessories, leashes, jewelry, and even custom pet tags engraved on-site. Follow Wiggle Rumps ReTaiL on Instagram and Facebook and visit their website: wigglerumpsretail.com
CV Trojans Boys Varsity Basketball
Our Athletes of the Week are the Castro Valley High School Boys Varsity Basketball team, which won its road conference game against the Berkeley Yellowjackets with a score of 57-49. Castro Valley’s victory pushed its record to 7-11. The win came thanks to its offensive performance across that stretch, which averages 63.7 points per game. The Trojans host the Piedmont Highlanders tonight and the Bishop O’Dowd Dragons on Friday. Both games start at 7:00 p.m.
District: Foundation
continued from page 3 ic excellence in the district. Grants, up to a maximum of $1,500 per grant, are awarded once each year in the fall.
CV Arts Foundation provides students and the community with artistic experiences that educate, enrich and entertain by securing resources for the Castro Valley Center for the Arts. The volunteer-run organization raises and donates approximately $100,000 annually, which is used exclusively for operational expenses. CV Arts has donated $1,000,000 to the Center for the Arts. In addition to an annual fundraising campaign, the Castro Valley Arts Foundation produces a Series with performers from around the Bay Area and beyond. Concession proceeds from these shows help fund scholarships for college-bound CVHS seniors who contribute their time and talents to the Center.
“The School District Foundation would not compete for funds with these two important district partners, but instead may help augment the programs they support,” Superintendent Ahmadi said.
The CVUSD Board of Education is expected to revisit the topic at a meeting before the end of the school year.
On January 16, Brian of Castro Valley caught these two rainbow trout while fishing from his boat at Shadow Cliff in Pleasanton. Congratulations on your ‘Great Catches,’ Brian! Have a “Great Catch” you’d like to share with the community? Please email to: filesforforum@gmail.com.
The Matt Wilhite Team is proud to sponsor Athletes of the Week CVHS Basketball