Danville Living CA August 2022 by Danville Living CA

Mailed Directly to West Danville Residents and Published Online

Danville LIVING CA

Meet

Brian and Rhonda Fuery: A Graceful Journey Photo by Kim Lind Photography

AUGUST 2022

Table of Contents Letter to Residents

Expert Contributors List

Meet Brian and Rhonda Fuery: A Graceful Journey

ARF Adoption Stars

Real Estate Statistics

Calendar of Events

Adding Too Much Value Modeling Leadership: Professionally & Personally Expert Contributor

Danville Nonprofit Finds Success in Challenging Times

Everyday is Lucky Penny Day!

SRVGAL Stompers Take Home the Trophy!

Mustang Soccer’s New Futsal Court is Officially Open!

Resident Feature

Pet Corner

Expert Contributor

Kid Corner

Local Sports Local Sports

Year of Random Holidays Kid Corner

Our Mission

Celebrate the Arts in Walnut Creek

Many Options for Cremation Memorialization at Cypress Lawn

Arts & Culture

Expert Contributor

Wildlife Photography Around the Bay Show Us Your Best Shot

Hear Chelsea Ames LIVE!

Tri-Valley Animal Rescue - Giving them another chance

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens - the Trolls are Alive!

Considering Rhinoplasty?

Bulgur Corn Salad

Art & Culture

TVAR Adoptables Adventure Time

Expert Contributor

Cooking Corner

DANVILLE LIVING CA 3

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AUGUST 2022

Publication Team Publisher:

Jo Peek, Danville Resident since 2014 Content Coordinator: Alexandra Sullivan, Resident since 2017 Designer: Emily Lund Contributing Photographer: Kim Lind Photography Jo Peek

Advertising Contact: Jo Peek Email: JPeek@bestversionmedia.com

Feedback/Ideas/Submissions: Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia. com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to: asullivan@ bestversionmedia.com. Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2022 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Hello Neighbors! Oh my gosh, the highs and lows of August. Is anyone else equally thrilled and sad that school is back in session? The evenings are still filled with summer magic - but you have to get up first thing in the morning! Who’s bright idea was this?? This month we are featuring the amazing Brian and Rhonda Fuery. Surely these gorgeous, smiling faces will be familiar to many here in the westside! I hope you enjoy reading their story - I sure loved writing about them! We also have some great expert articles and plenty of resident pieces for you to peruse! Remember, if you have a story to share or know a neighbor that you would love to see on our cover, please send me an email at asullivan@bestversionmedia.com. We welcome all families, couples, or individuals - the only requirement is that our feature family live on the west side of Danville. So send your friends and neighbors my way. I can’t wait to meet them! See you around town!

Alexandra Sullivan Content Coordinator

We are dedicated to sharing your stories and interests. If there is anything you would like to share with our community, or see in our magazine, please don’t hesitate to email me at asullivan@bestversionmedia.com

Mary Bonham Real Estate YOUR WESTSIDE REAL ESTATE EXPERT

MARYBONHAM.COM

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410 Cliffside Drive, Danville Represented Buyers

MARY BONHAM 925-997-1787 Mary.Bonham@TheAgencyRE.com Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

$4,800,000

Lic#01203856 DANVILLE LIVING CA 5

Expert Contributors

To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.

Banking Community Bank of the Bay Team Danville 925-838-2902 info@bankcbb.com www.bankcbb.com

Established in 1996, Community Bank of the Bay (CBB) is an independent, community-focused bank. Our mission is to foster and promote economic development in the communities we serve. We take the time to listen, understand, and develop customized financial solutions to support the needs of businesses. CBB is a FDIC member, SBA Preferred Lender, and a CDARS depository institution. We are California’s first FDIC-insured certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI).

Chiropractic Sycamore Valley Chiropractic (925) 837-5595 info@sycamorevalleychiropractic.com www.sycamorevalleychiropractic.com

Serving the Danville community since 1984, Sycamore Valley Chiropractic is here to provide you with the highest quality in natural health care. In our comfortable, welcoming environment, you’ll feel right at home. Whether you’re looking to restore your body after an injury has left you sidelined, or want to feel as good as possible, Sycamore Valley Chiropractic is the perfect place to begin your journey to wellness.

Cosmetic Surgery Stephen J. Ronan MD FACS Blackhawk Plastic Surgery and Migraine Center 925-736-5757 www.blackhawkplasticsurgery.com

Blackhawk Plastic Surgery has been offering their patients the highest quality care in the Blackhawk area for more than 20 years. Including a fully accredited on-site surgery center, clinical Med Spa and top ranked Hair Restoration Center, Dr. Ronan’s team of skilled professionals are dedicated to delivering transformative results with every treatment.

Education St. Isidore School (925) 837-2977 info@stisidore.org www.stisidore.org

St. Isidore School is the East Bay’s largest Catholic School serving TK-8th Grade. We believe each student is a unique and beautiful gift. We foster individuality in a familial environment, inspiring students to explore and grow. Our teachers create a love of learning by nurturing an inquisitive spirit, building connections, and developing critical thinking. We understand that today’s learners are tomorrow’s leaders.

End of Life Cypress Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park Bob Gordon (650) 550-8808 info@cypresslawn.com https://www.cypresslawn.com

Robert Gordon Jr. began his career at his grandfather’s cemetery and funeral home as a teenager — he worked in every position, eventually rising to the level of Vice President. He went on to hold director positions at both the El Camino Group and Service Corporation International. Bob is now the President and CEO of the Cypress Lawn Cemetery Association. He is a licensed funeral director and cemetery broker.

Life Coach EYC Life Coach Christina Dalton 925-872-4726 Christina@EYHLifeCoach.com www.eyhlifecoach.com

Christina Dalton is the principal Life Coach for Expanding YOUR Horizons. She is credentialed through ICF as a PCC, Professional Certified Coach. She has worked with people in all stages of life; including students, families, new businesses, etc. Christina embodies the passion and enthusiasm for you to reach your FULL professional and personal potential. “Working with us is a wonderful journey in growth fueled by empowerment, passion and execution.”

Memory Care Carefield Pleasanton Memory Care Parveen Singh 925-750-8744 www.carefieldpleasanton.com

Carefield Pleasanton provides exceptional memory care in a lovely senior living community located in Pleasanton, CA. With a nurse on staff and a compassionate team, we provide 24/7 support with a personalized care plan, an enriching calendar of activities, delicious dining, & private residences. Take a tour today.

Find us online DanvilleLivingCA

AUGUST 2022

Expert Contributors

To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.

Mortgage CrossCountry Mortgage LLC W. Todd Galde 925-854-5238 todd.galde@myccmortgage.com www.toddgalde.com

After more than 20 years, Todd Galde has mastered the process of helping borrowers with different income sources, matching the correct loan to their unique circumstances. We teach and advise, then we customize. A Direct Lender, Team Galde offers solutions with competitive rates and financing programs that give you more qualifying options, including the unique NINE Loan for owner-occupied purchase or refinance. Learn more at www.The9Loan.com.

Real Estate Janice Jordan Broker/Associate at Compass 925-580-7482 janice.jordan@compass.com

Janice Jordan comes from three generations of real estate experts. Her passion and perseverance, combined with 30 years of experience and being a Danville resident for over 20 years, is her key to creating an extraordinary client experience, always exceeding expectations, and the reason clients call on her every time they are buying or selling a home. She is an upstanding member of the community and spends her time volunteering and supporting local events. In her spare time, Janice enjoys mountain biking, hiking, and spending time with her daughter Jenna, her horse, Wilder, and Australian Shepherd, Buster.

Remodeling America’s Dream Homeworks Vlad Chernioglo (916) 739-0996 vladc@dreamhomeworks.com

Our company offers one-stop shopping for your complete kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects. We handle the design, materials and installation in house, so you only deal with one, full-service company. Find all the styles, fixtures and products for your renovation project in our 20,000 sq. ft. kitchen and bathroom showroom.

Roofing HRC Roofing and Solar Inc Cris Hernandez 855-827-8957 cris@hrcroofingandsolar.com www.hrcroofingandsolar.com

Cris Hernandez started his career in his late teens. After gaining enough experience and aspiring to grow professionally, he started his own company. HRC Roofing and Solar Inc. has over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial installations and repairs of all roofing types, gutters and solar. Quality workmanship is HRC’s guaranteed for all your roofing and solar needs. CSLB Lic: 918651

Wealth Management Jim Carbonell Matt Forrey The Carbonell Forrey Wealth Management Group 925-279-1701 carbonellforreywmg@rbc.com www.rbcwmfa.com/carbonellforreywmg/

Local Danville residents, Jim and Matt have worked with families in the Bay Area for the past two decades. The Carbonell Forrey team offers customized investment planning and management services based on each individual’s unique set of needs and objectives. With a family-first approach, the team prides itself on delivering an exceptional experience so that clients are able to focus on the other important aspects of their lives.

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Resident Feature

After meeting in 1978, they spent the next seven years on opposite ends of California. Rhonda was in college down in San Diego and Brian was in Berkeley also finishing up his degree. “We spent those years connecting with letters, phone calls, and holiday visits while finishing our college years and beginning our adulting phase.” Early in 1985 Brian wrote “The Letter” the one that changed the course of both of their lives. Rhonda recalls the “whopper of a letter… telling me he kept comparing me to other women he was dating and realized it was me he wanted to spend his life with and did I feel the same about him?” She says that although she was caught off guard, it took but a moment to confirm that she knew she would spend the rest of her life with this man. Rhonda still has that show-stopping letter to this day! Once she journeyed back up north to the Bay Area, they married in a small church in Pleasant Hill. In fact, this month they are celebrating their 36th Anniversary!

Meet Brian and Rhonda Fuery: A Graceful Journey By Alexandra Sullivan, Resident since 2017

an you save the planet and meet your soulmate at the same time? Sure can! Brian and Rhonda Fuery met in 1978 during their 30 minute carpool to the then GM Auto Plant in Fremont (now the Tesla plant). They were both working there for the summer and were lucky to stay on the road most days, since they spent their time driving, talking and laughing together - add this to the pro column for carpooling! Now, more than forty years later they have two adult children, a son-in-law, and a two-year-old granddaughter. Looking back at their life together, they’ve found it so beautiful to find nostalgia and grace in those moments that seemed hard to get through at the time, as well as pure joy during the plentiful happy memories.

What’s their secret to such a successful marriage? Lucky for us, Rhonda shares, “we agree that our faith, our commitment to being close as opposed to being right and a deep enjoyment of and appreciation for one another are the elements that have kept our relationship thriving and strong (plus he thinks I’m really funny!)” They further stay connected by partaking in hobbies and activities that appeal to both of them. Hiking and biking (with a little electric boost!) are their favorite ways to enjoy the outdoors. But what really inspires the Fuerys is their faith and involvement in their church - Creekside Community Church in Alamo. There they mentor younger and new parents and have made many friends throughout Danville in doing so. “We love laughing, we love getting to know people, we love giving and serving. It’s what our creator, our Heavenly Father is like and because of His unending, intentional, relational love for us through His son Jesus, we copy what He does, knowing that is how families, neighbors, communities and countries will experience the peace we all long for.” A bit farther from home, they love to travel around the United States- “We have a lifetime goal of seeing every national park in the country. We’ve been to 14 out of 62, so we have got a way to go!!!” And when the US gets a bit status quo, they travel (via their tv) to England, where they get lost in watching British detective shows. To date, they’ve happily admitted to binge watching dozens of them! Brian is described as a bit of a Renaissance Man, “He loves history and science, he has a beautiful tenor voice and has written music, He loves to garden and has a flourishing fruit orchard and 80 olive trees. He has written a book about his life entitled Liz Here Now

AUGUST 2022

and hired a professional to write the screenplay and is pursuing having it made into a movie.” Rhonda enjoys spending time volunteering with The Clean Up Crew - a local organization that keeps our streets and roads clear from litter. It is the understatement of the year to say that their favorite way to spend time is with their adorable two-year-old granddaughter, Roma. The Fuerys love living so close to her (and her parents, of course!) so that they can watch and be a part of each stage of her life. Down the hill from their home also lives Rhonda’s 90-yearold mother - “having 4 generations in such close proximity is a wonderful blessing. Being retired allows me the time to enjoy being with them all, helping in whatever way I can.” Brian and Rhonda live in the hills of Las Trampas - a gorgeous piece of property they moved to and built on nine years ago after spending the previous 24 years living off Del Amigo. The Fuerys say of their dream home, “We have the most supportive, gracious, and fun neighbors… We feel blessed to live in such a beautiful and peaceful community and every friend or family member who visits from out of town says, ‘I want to live here!’”

Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share?

Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at asullivan@bestversionmedia.com.

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

DANVILLE LIVING CA 9

Pringles

ARF Adoption Stars

Marcus

By Christa Noriega, ARF Adoption Manager Looking for a furry friend during this trying time? If you see an animal you’re interested in on our website, just fill out an online inquiry form. Once your inquiry has been received, you will be added to our virtual adoption queue. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Wednesday & Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 pm Saturday & Sunday. Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arflife.org, or call (925) 256-1ARF.

1½-year-old Marcus is a smart boy who absolutely loves to cuddle! Quite the smartypants, he also enjoys learning new things and is easy to train with the help of some tasty treats. In the home, Marcus likes to follow you around and will happily nap next at your side if you are working. He is also up for going on hikes or leisurely walks around the block. Marcus has a positive history with other dogs and currently weighs 47pounds.

2-year-old Pringles is a sweet, big pup who is always up for adventure! The life of the party, Pringles is everyone’s best friend—dog and human alike—and is always ready to have a good time. He also enjoys doing some training with yummy treats, playing with his favorite toys, or getting some of that snuggle time on the couch. If you’re looking for a furry friend with great dog/dog play skills and a real zest for life, look no further than Pringles! He currently weighs 81 pounds. ARF adoption fees: $250 for an adult dog, $350 for a puppy (<6months), $125 for a special- needs dog, $175 for a special-needs puppy (<6months), and $125 for a senior dog (7+ years).

AUGUST 2022

Real Estate Listings in West Danville Real Estate is proudly sponsored by Gatti Real Estate Addresses in Bold are Seller’s/Buyer’s represented by Ron and Joe Gatti | 7/10/22

Active Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

Laurel Dr Rubicon Cir Danville Oak Pl

$649,000 $775,000 $859,000

Pending Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

Garden Creek Place $949,000 Westfield Cir $988,000 Railroad Ave $1,499,000

Pending Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

San Ramon Valley Blvd San Ramon Valley Blvd Cavalry Court

$678,000 $868,000 $2,675,000

Morris Ranch William Ct Veda Dr

800 1391 1304

1114 1301 2404

2 3 3

2 2 4

1 2 2

$2,950,000 $4,250,000 $4,999,999

1357 1499 1219

3575 4288 4500

3 2 2

4 5 4

2 2 2

4 4 4

Sold Listings Street List Price Sold Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

Rubicon Circle Jewel Terrace El Dorado Ave El Dorado Ave El Dorado Ave

El Dorado El Dorado Del Amigo Rd Marian Lane

$829,000 $998,950 $1,475,000 $1,475,000 $1,475,000

$835,000 $1,085,000 $1,450,000 $1,475,000 $1,500,000

1391 1742 1695 1706 1688

3 3 3 3 3

2 2 2 2 2

$1,650,000 $1,675,000 $2,698,000 $3,229,000 Morris Ranch Court $3,799,000 Westridge Ave $2,995,000

$1,650,000 $1,832,799 $2,650,000 $3,000,000 $3,640,000 $3,830,000

1805 1805 2156 3500 3808 3380

3 3 4 5 5 5

2 2 2 3 4 3

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

JOE & RON GAT TI AS DANVILLE NATIVES, WE KNOW DANVILLE AND THE SAN RAMON VALLEY

210 GLEN MEADOW COURT | DANVILLE | $2,198,000 4 BED | 2.5 BATH | 2,888 SF

JOE GATTI

RON GATTI

Broker Associate Broker Associate 925.588.3590 925.596.3590 DRE 019144487 DRE 00623995

231 EL SOBRANTE DRIVE | DANVILLE | $2,278,000 5 BED + OFFICE | 3 BATH | 2,465 SF

JULIE CYGAN CHELSY RUIZ REALTOR® 510.501.5160 DRE 02059093

g a t t i r e a l e s t a t e @ g m a i l .co m

REALTOR® 925.575.1358 DRE 02157574

GattiRealEstate.com

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.

DANVILLE LIVING CA 11

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Sat., Aug. 6 Music in the Park - Beat Frequency (Contemporary Hits) @Danville Town Green Join us for Music in the Park. Bring blankets or chairs and food to enjoy while listening to some great music. Local Danville businesses will also be providing food for purchase. Cost: Free Time: 6-8pm

Through Aug., 21 Model Trains Running Through the Depot

@Museum of the San Ramon Valley Come check out this great exhibit featuring model trains! Hours are as follows: Tuesday-Saturday: 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Sunday: 12:00-3:00 p.m. Cost: Family Trains Pass are available for $15.00. Covers daily admission through Aug. 21, 2022

Sun., Aug. 21 Hot Summer Sundays Car Show

@Historic Downtown Danville A street party like no other, Danville’s Hot Summer Sundays Car Shows combines classic cars and camaraderie to create a wonderful day of summer celebration. Whether we’re admiring a pristine classic hotrod, or we’re taken aback by the smooth ride that dad unveiled for Sunday drives, we never seem to tire of gawking at beautiful automobiles. In its 24th year, the show features hundreds of hot rods and classic cars along Hartz/Prospect Avenue. Expect to see rare one-of-a-kind collector cars, custom-designed

cars and classic and muscle cars from all era’s. Live music fills the streets, vendor booths and awards for the favorite collector vehicles, and local shop owners and restaurateurs welcome you to discover what makes Danville so special. Pre-Registration opens June 1st. $35.00 Pre-Registration, $45.00 Day of Event pricing. No credit cards accepted day of event. All sales are final. Vendor and Volunteer opportunities are still available, contact David at ezasugo@yahoo.com. Cost: Free Time: 11-4pm

Sat., Aug. 27 Friends of the Danville Library Pop-Up Book Sale

@Danville Public Library Don’t miss the Friends of the Danville Library Book Sale! There will be various genres for sale including non-fiction, general fiction, mysteries, cookbooks, art books, children’s books, gift items, book bags and more! Find some great deals at these special pop-up sales for one day only each month! All proceeds benefit the Danville Library. The Friends also host a small bookshelf in the library (by the library’s print station) where you can browse and purchase book titles and DVDs for all ages. The shelves are regularly refreshed with new materials! Time: 10-2pm

Sat., Aug. 27

Every Saturday

Modern Landscape Exhibit and Brunch Reception

Farmers’ Market

@Village Theatre Art Gallery The Village Theatre Art Gallery will be hosting an exhibition curated by Marin County artist and prior Gallery Director Ellen Levine Dodd. The exhibit will be on display from August 27 to October 8, 2022. Brunch Reception will be held on Saturday, August 27, 2022, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Enjoy live music on the patio in front of the Village Theatre & Art Gallery and complimentary refreshments. For more information, call the Village Theatre Art Gallery at 925-314-3467 or email artgallery@danville. ca.gov Time: 11-1pm

Every Monday Tips for Change Community Fundraising Events

@Gianni’s Italian Bistro Gianni’s Italian Bistro opens up their restaurant to support our local non-profit community. Tips for change is a fun and unique way for local local charity organizations to raise much needed funds. Volunteers and supporters of local non-profits suit up and become your servers for the evening with all tips and 10% of sales going to support their organization. This event occurs most Monday evenings between 5 and 8pm and is open to the public. Reservations required.

@Railroad Ave. Municipal Parking Lot-Downtown Get the freshest seasonal fare at Danville Certified Farmers’ Market. You’ll find fruits and vegetables direct from local farmers, along with freshcut flowers, bedding plants and fresh breads. This event is located at Railroad & Prospect Avenues and offers free parking in the adjacent lot. Time: 9am-1pm More information at www.pcfma.com

SAVE THE DATE Mon., Sept 5 Relics on Railroad

@Museum of the San Ramon Valley If you love the ageless beauty of antiques, you won’t want to miss Relic’s on Railroad, Danville’s Art and Antique Faire. Discover timeless treasures from local antique dealers and artists. Grab a bite at downtown eateries. And enjoy live music, entertainment, and fun for the kids while strolling through the streets of downtown. Have a few heirlooms of your own? For a nominal fee, you can find out how much they’re worth at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley’s antique appraisal clinic. To become a vendor at the event please visit the Museum of the San Ramon Valley Website. Time: 9-3pm

AUGUST 2022

Expert Contributor

Adding Too Much Value Modeling Leadership: Professionally & Personally By Christina Dalton, MS, PPS, PCC, EYH Life Coach

he typical, successful adult wears many hats. In your personal life, you may be a spouse, a parent, a friend, maybe even a community leader. At work, you may be viewed as an expert in a specific area. With all these roles, you may have become an expert in certain subjects. People reach out to you for advice. It did not occur to me until listening to a podcast a few days ago, that by providing my advice I might actually be hijacking the value of the other person’s ideas. One of my clients wanted my thoughts and input about an idea she had for her company. As she shared her thoughts, instead of acknowledging the power of her ideas, I wanted to provide more value to what she was doing. I inserted my advice. “Have you thought about also doing…?” After all, that is what I do. I am an expert. I had not realized that by interjecting my ideas, I made her project my own. I also shut down the value of what she wanted to accomplish. How else could I have partnered with her in what she wanted to accomplish? This is a common dilemma for leaders and parents. Instead of partnering with your employees or your children, you want to wear the hat of the expert, because after all, you are the expert. As I offered my thoughts, I watched her face lose the excitement, much like a balloon deflating. If you are like me, someone who thinks that offering value is giving advice, then may I share what I came to realize? By providing advice, I deny the other person the opportunity to develop their insight to think for themselves, learn and grow.

helpful questions. “What would the final outcome of your idea look like?” “How can I partner with you?” “What do you need to move forward with this?” An experienced coach can partner with you to achieve your leadership strengths. Remember, you are only a leader if you have helped others achieve their passions and goals. If you tend to deflate instead of inflate what is possible, maybe it is time for you to partner with us to see all your possibilities. Contact EYHLifeCoach.com today to fully grow your leadership talents.

Instead of being the expert, I can provide those around me, to include my clients, self awareness in their ideas and goals by being curious. If I can align with them, be present and truly listen, I am more able to help them find meaning and purpose in what they want to accomplish. As a leader in your industry, in your community and in your household, remember that effective communicators and leaders possess the ability to listen to others. Listen and be curious about those you impact; understand their thoughts though asking meaningful questions to help them actualize their ideas. Instead of sharing your ideas to give value, help them expand on their’s with

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

Christina Dalton is the Principal of EYH Life Coach. She applies her own personal and career transitions along with several degrees and credentials to provide insight and knowledge into the coaching experience. Christina handpicks her staff, all of whom are ICF credentialed and have unique experiences to create invaluable coaching sessions.

DANVILLE LIVING CA 13

Expert Contributor

Danville Nonprofit Finds Success in Challenging Times By David Meyer, SVP, Relationship Manager, Community Bank of the Bay

or nonprofit organizations, it can feel like feast or famine when it comes to gathering resources. As a local community bank, we’re keenly aware of the financial struggles that nonprofits face. And, we’re here to find creative solutions for their unique financial needs. Since 2014, we’ve been doing just that as the banking partner to the Discovery Counseling Center of San Ramon Valley. As a beacon of hope for many in our community, Discovery Counseling Center makes a promise to help people stay safe, connected, and healthy in times of difficulty and during life transitions. Their expertise and knowledge of mental health, traumatic events, and addiction coupled with culturally appropriate and affordable care are invaluable to destigmatizing mental health in the community. The center takes mental wellness and applies it to the diverse communities of the San Ramon Valley, with about 10,000 client sessions per year. They serve as a partner to their clients, identifying, addressing, and holistically supporting their needs so they can live healthy and productive lives. As a staple in the community for over 50 years, they operate a counseling center for individuals and group therapy in Danville and San Ramon, youth programs in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District, and a second-hand store, the Thrift Station, which financially supports the nonprofit’s programs. Discovery Counseling Center has always guided their clients through challenging times, just like Community Bank of the Bay (CBB). It’s why, during the pandemic, they reached out to us for a Paycheck Protection Program loan.

With help from CBB, Discovery Counseling Center received a PPP loan to maintain operations of their thrift store while creating new strategies for resilience and providing services to the community. “It’s why we stayed open and provided this community with the mental health support they needed through the pandemic,” said executive director Kathy Chiverton. “We’ve been able to [continue operating] because of The Thrift Station. The Thrift Station raises one-third of our income, and it is what enables us to tell a mom who has called and said, ‘Our child needs help so badly, but we have no money. We’ll take a second mortgage out on our home to afford to get him the support he needs.’ And I can say to that mom, ‘You don’t have to do that.’ We’re proud to make it our mission to serve clients like the Discovery Counseling Center of San Ramon Valley. Contact us to learn more about how we can serve your nonprofit at https://www. bankcbb.com/nonprofits-unions/loans/.

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AUGUST 2022

Arts & Culture

Celebrate the arts in Downtown Walnut Creek: By Kara Navolio, Walnut Creek Downtown

he City of Walnut Creek and twelve of its community organizations are collaborating to present Arts Around August, a month-long program in downtown Walnut Creek to celebrate the performing, visual and culinary arts. Walnut Creek, a city rich in its arts offerings, is proud to bring this celebration, in its 2nd year, to downtown and to partner with many of the city’s business, non-profit and arts organizations. There will be events or activities throughout the month of August.

Experiences for all ages include: • • • • • • • • •

Summer Concerts at Broadway Plaza - Every Thursday evening First Wednesday Street Faire - Aug. 3 Pop-up Opera Fridays Downtown Stages (presented by local performing artists) Public Art Walking Tour - Aug. 20 Art & History Scavenger Hunts Pop-up Ceramics Sale and Workshop The Valley Art Gallery will be showcasing local artists at businesses throughout the downtown and will be offering a drawing all month for a $300 gift certificate. Eight Painted Pianos placed throughout downtown for anyone to play

For Adults: • • •

Moveable Feast (an upscale culinary stroll including tastes from the best of Walnut Creek’s restaurants, with a little sample of public art sprinkled in - every Wed.) Opera After Dark - Aug. 26 Independent film showing by Mountain Shadow Film Society - Aug. 19 and 20

For families: • • •

Two special days at the Lesher Center (Family Day and Music Day) with free activities for children, Fantasy Forum performances of The Wizard of Oz - Aug. 21 Family Mural Walk. - Aug. 13

Matt Francois, Walnut Creek Mayor, says, “The arts enrich our lives. Walnut Creek has a vibrant Arts District, with the Lesher Center, Bedford Gallery and public art pieces, all located in close proximity to popular restaurants and retailers. The City is pleased to support the return of Arts Around August to our downtown this summer. We hope that residents and visitors alike join us for these fun events celebrating the arts.” Please visit www.walnutcreekdowntown.com/ArtsaroundAugust for more information and a complete calendar of events, times and locations. DANVILLE LIVING CA 15

Local Sports

SRVGAL Stompers Take Home the Trophy! Submitted by Annabelle Seabury, Fourth Grade

RVGAL Stompers 10U-C team dominated at both the NorCal USA Softball Championship in Sunnyvale and the West Coast Championship in Manteca. They recently went to play in San Diego with 25 teams in their division at the California State Games. The team is made up of girls from San Ramon, Danville and Alamo, and they are loving having friends at different schools and all over town! When they aren’t winning trophies, medals and rings, they are definitely winning the cheering section with their loud softball cheers and team chants.

AUGUST 2022

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Local Sports

Mustang Soccer’s New Futsal Court is

Officially Open! By Richard Northing, President Mustang Soccer

wish everyone a relaxing and wonderful summer, and hopefully you have found time to step away from the “daily grind” and enjoy a little time with your loved ones! At Mustang Soccer we appreciated our break over the July 4th week and are now excited to get back into the swing of things ahead of the upcoming season! We are also delighted to have finally launched our new Futsal arena which represents a fantastic add to the arsenal of player-education tools at our disposal. Before the break we held a very special official “ribbon-cutting” ceremony and have since consistently heard positive feedback about the space. Like all facilities at the Mustang Soccer Complex, our goal is to make the Futsal court available to as many age groups and levels-of-play

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as possible. This will include using the court for training, Futsal Leagues, and informal Futsal participation. This is all part of our commitment to continual improvement at Mustang and to add more quality offerings to our players. To learn more about futsal, please visit https://en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Futsal. I hope to see your players out on the court soon! Richard Northing | Mustang Soccer President

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AUGUST 2022

Featured Article

Spillman brothers journey from West African orphanage to DI football

Image Courtesy: Provided

By Andrew Florio, BVM Sports Journalist

The Spillman brothers were born in Sierra Leone, a country on the southwest coast of West Africa where 53% of the population makes less than $1.25 per day. There was never a thought of pursuing an education at an American university. This changed in 2013. Nate and Edwin, who were 8 and 7 years old respectively at the time, were able to come to the United States through a missionary orphanage program. Not too long after coming over, they quickly found a love for the game of football… Scan to continue reading @BVMSports

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Kid Corner

Year of Random Holidays By Alexandra Sullivan, Resident since 2017

oming into 2022 we wanted to bring a little less screen time into our lives. So we thought about the easiest way to keep that up all year long, because let’s be honest: if it isn’t easy, we won’t last. Enter what we’re calling the “Year of Random Holidays!” Interpret and Celebrate however you’d like! Hope some of these brighten up your days! August 8: Dollar Day August 9: Book Lovers Day August 10: Lazy Day August 12: World Elephant Day August 16: Rollercoaster Day August 19: World Photo Day August 20: Bacon Lovers Day & Lemonade Day August 21: National Poets Day August 26: National Dog Day August 27: Banana Lovers Day August 30: Beach Day September 1: International Letter Writing Day September 4: Eat an Extra Dessert Day & National Wildlife Day September 6: Read a Book Day

If you partake in any of these awesome holidays, please send us some pictures! We’d love to see how everyone celebrates! Email your photos to asullivan@bestversionmedia.com or tag us on Facebook and Instagram at @danvillelivingca

Our Mission Learn - about our neighbors and our community

We share ideas, stories, pictures and events. We have no writing staff or hired agencies, we are simply residents with a passion for our community. Do you know a resident with an amazing story or special talent? We’d love to talk to them.

Share - find and recommend the best, local trusted businesses with our neighbors We rely on the support of our sponsors/advertisers each month. They care about our community and want to earn your business. Please thank our advertisers by hiring and recommending them. Do you know an amazing business that would like to be a part of our community? We’d love to talk to them.

Support - local businesses, worthy causes, schools, charities, nonprofits and fundraisers We support hundreds of nonprofits, charities and events. Do you have a worthy cause that we should support? Please reach out to us. 20

AUGUST 2022

Kid Corner

Everyday is Lucky Penny Day! By Penny Sullivan, First Grade Have you checked any of the “Random Holidays” off of your list? Here are some of our celebrations!

Chocolate Ice Cream Day

Best Friend Day - My dog, Brady!

National Siblings Day

International Yoga Day

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Expert Contributor

Many Options for Cremation Memorialization at Cypress Lawn

By Robert A. Gordon Jr., President & CEO of Cypress Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, Resident since 2017

any families assume that if they choose cremation, their options for permanent memorialization can become limited. At Cypress Lawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park, this is not the case. We offer a variety of memorialization options for those who choose cremation. We believe every family should be able to honor their loved one in the way that most aligns with their preferences and financial plans.

Permanent Placement

When you trust Cypress Lawn with your loved one’s cremation, you have many options for permanent placement. We offer a stateof-the-art columbaria — rooms featuring elegant glass-front niches for storing urns. Our indoor and outdoor mausoleums are spacious and built to last. Families can also select a decorative urn that reflects their loved one’s personality.

Scattering

It’s a popular choice to scatter a loved one’s cremated remains in a meaningful location (or in multiple places) that meant a lot to them. Our staff can guide you through this process.

Traditional Burial

If the idea of traditional burial appeals to you, a loved one’s cremated remains can be placed within our beautiful Memorial Park. Our staff can also arrange a graveside service, which serves as a healing experience.

Cremation Bench

A memorial bench is a perfect option for families who love the outdoors. Crafted from durable granite, our cremation benches can be engraved to feature favorite quotes, Scriptures, and more. Our experts are ready to answer any questions Bay Area families have about end-of-life decisions. Call us anytime at (650) 550-8808.

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From You!

We feature business promotions, community events, news around town and more!

We are dedicated to sharing your stories and your interests, please reach out to us with any ideas you may have. Some of the topics we would love to cover are: Travel (where have you been to recently? Share your trip with us!) Kids’ Corner (art, stories, etc. provided by children) Book Reviews Pets! Acts of Kindness Show Us Your Best Shot (photography) Gardening Hobbies Local Hikes More ... If you’d like to submit something, or have any questions, please email asullivan@bestversionmedia.com

AUGUST 2022

Arts & Culture

Many

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Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays

World of Nature

Reserved Tickets Required Available at blackhawkmuseum.org

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Hear Chelsea Ames LIVE! By Chelsea Ames, Resident since 2015

LIVE at Sideboard Danville 7-9pm August 3 September 7 October 5

Automobile Gallery

LIVE at Hazy BBQ 5:30-8pm Aug 18 Sept 22

The Spirit of The Old West

LIVE at Barnyard Wine Bar 6-9pm Art of Africa

Sept 2 Sept 16 Oct 1 Oct 15

Into China

925-736-2277 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle • Danville, CA We are following all COVID-19 protocols. DANVILLE LIVING CA 23

TVAR Adoptables

Tri-Valley Animal Rescue Giving them another chance By Sue James, President TVAR

Itsy - East County Animal Shelter Adorable Dog -- Looking For Her Forever Home!

If you enjoy this warm weather, you’ll absolutely love this ray of sunshine! Itsy is a beautiful 10 month old dog weighing just 34 pounds, which is such a perfect size. Once she gets to know you, she is very calm, affectionate, and sweet. She will come over to sit by your side for some patting and love. Her favorite part of the day is getting outside for fun. She likes to play ball and carries her toys around in her mouth, getting close to the fence so she can show them off to the dog on the other side. Itsy also likes to splash around in the wading pool. You can meet adorable Itsy at the East County Animal Shelter at 4595 Gleason Drive, Kennel B4. Itsy is spayed, vaccinated and microchipped and ready for her new forever home. You can see more about Itsy and additional pictures at www.tvar.org

Jazmine - Foster Kitten Program At T var

TVAR’s kitten and bottle baby programs rescue kittens - some only days old - who are unable to be adopted from the shelter and places them in foster homes where they receive medical care, love and a home setting until they are healthy, able to be spayed or neutered and ready for their forever homes.

Tri-Valley Animal R escue (T VAR ) - Giving them Another Chance

TVAR is a locally based and volunteer run 501(c)3 animal rescue organization. We assist in saving over 1,000 animals yearly in the TriValley and surrounding areas. We are celebrating 30 years of saving lives with over 250 local volunteers. At TVAR, we rely solely on Public Support to fund our life saving programs. All TVAR’s foster animals go directly from the local Animal Shelter into foster homes where they receive much needed love and socialization and where they are kept until adopted.

Meet little Jazmine - a sweet and frisky kitten who wants nothing more than to be in your lap. She loves to play with her foster sibling cats and Australian Shepherds she is living with. She will follow you around and ask for love all day. And a touch of a hand is enough to make her purr. Jazmine is spayed, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested negative for FIV/FeLV and looking for her forever home.

We also have an invaluable Shelter Program where our volunteers spend countless hours every day at the local shelter working with the Dogs, Puppies, Cats and Kittens and the Public.

AUGUST 2022

Adventure Time

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens - the Trolls are Alive! By JP Sullivan, Fourth Grade Last month we went to Maine for a week. We went to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay Harbor. There we saw the coolest giant Trolls! A Danish artist named Thomas Dambo created these wooden sculptures. They represent different parts of the tree trunk, leaves, branches, flowers and roots. We had to walk through the whole garden to find all five of them. It was a great lesson on why we all need to take care of the Earth.

My sister loved making fairy houses out of fallen sticks, leaves and other found materials. There were hundreds of fairy houses that other visitors created too. It was pretty cool because the whole space overlooked the ocean, so there were lots of shells mixed in with the twigs and bark.

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DANVILLE LIVING CA 25

Expert Contributor

Considering Rhinoplasty? By Stephen J. Ronan MD FACS, Blackhawk Plastic Surgery and MedSpa

lot of men and women say that the choice to undergo rhinoplasty is a decision that has had a large positive impact on their lives. Feeling good about the way your nose looks can do wonders for your self-confidence. Your nose is the most prominent feature on your face, and its shape affects the overall balance or imbalance of your face. A hereditary dorsal hump, an elongated tip or nose that is too wide are issues that most patients considering rhinoplasty want to address. Often, there are other functionality issues that make the nose appear to be bigger, wider or longer. Fortunately, all these things can be addressed simultaneously during rhinoplasty surgery. While a lot of men and women out there may be interested in getting rhinoplasty, many of them are hesitant because they are worried about what the recovery will be like. The first thing to understand is that rhinoplasty is a highly personalized procedure. The techniques used and the extent of the surgical work required will vary from patient to patient. In some cases, cartilage may need to be removed, repositioned, or reshaped. Some nasal bones may also need to be shaved or carefully fractured depending on the desired results of the patient.

Following your rhinoplasty, you can expect to experience some issues like swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Thankfully, medication can be provided to help manage pain and discomfort, and post-operative instructions will help to make the recovery process easier. After surgery, most patients return to in person work after a week. Or, if working from home, even after a day or two. Ready to take the next step? If you would like to learn more about rhinoplasty and to see if you are a good candidate, or if you would like to get started on your rhinoplasty journey, please contact our office at 925.736.5757 to schedule a complimentary in-person or virtual consultation where we can review the procedure together and address all your questions.

AUGUST 2022

Cooking Corner

Bulgur Corn Salad By Stephanie Seaberg, Resident since 2010

hat is bulgur? Good question. I had never seen much of it until recently. It seems to be popping up everywhere in food magazines as a trendy side dish and apparently Jennifer Aniston has a recipe for bulgur salad. Bulgur is cracked whole grain wheat that is a cross between rice and quinoa, in my personal opinion. It’s also high in fiber and protein which I definitely love. On its own, it’s nothing special, but when you combine it with sweet corn and a little bit of spice and seasoning, you’ve got a side dish that goes perfectly with grilled salmon or chicken. So, here’s my take on a beautiful bulgur corn salad to keep the summer season going.

Bulgur Corn Salad You will Need • • • •

3 Ears of corn, shucked (3 cups) 1/2 C. Bulgur 1/2 C. Boiling water 1/3 Red onion, chopped

• • • • • • • • •

1 Small jalapeño, diced 1/2 C. Red bell pepper, diced 1 TBS Parsley, chopped 1 Green onion, sliced 1 TBS Fresh basil 1 TBS Olive oil 1 TBS fresh lemon juice 1 TBS fresh lime juice Salt and pepper

Putting it together: Place the bulgur in a bowl and add the boiling water. Cover it with foil and allow it to steam for 20 minutes. In a medium skillet, heat the oil oil and sauté the shucked corn for 5 minutes on medium heat. Then add the onions and cook an additional 3 minutes. Remove the corn from the heat and transfer to bowl to cool. Then it’s cool, combine it with the bulgur, jalapeño, bell pepper, parsley, lemon and lime juice, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve at room temp.

Stephanie Seaberg has lived in the East Bay for the last 30 years, and is a SRVHS Alumni. Steph is a play-writer and director for Theater Performance Workshop, KAOS Camp, and Golden Oak Montessori. Steph lives for cooking, theater, photography, travel, and singing.

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