Danville Living Magazine January 2019

Exclusively Serving Downtown and West Danville

J A NUA RY 2 019

Danville LIVING

Meet the

Recktenwald Family: Sharing a Life as Doctors COVER PHOTO:

by Kim Lind Photography

2

JANUARY 2019

Danville LIVING

Publication Team Publisher:

Jo Peek, Danville Resident since 2014 Content Coordinator: Eve Marie Shahoian, Danville Resident since 2013 Designer: Emily Lund Jo Peek

Contributing Photographer: Kim Lind Photography

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: eshahoian@ 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. © 2019 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Dear Neighbors, Happy New Year to you! By now you have not only reflected on 2018, but you may have thought about what your New Year’s Resolutions are for 2019. I wish for you continued health and more time to enjoy friends and family. We live in such a busy world, and I believe we all just need to slow down and breathe, focus on the joy that lives inside each and every one of us. It is my wish that we all take the time to truly see and hear those around us. There is so much which binds us together as humanity. Let’s continue to spread love, and kindness this new year! In 2019, I look forward to continuing to teach my private voice and piano students in my Danville studio, producing shows at The Jazz Room @ Village Theatre & Art Gallery, performing, and, of course, sharing your stories! I would love to hear from you and learn about what you are doing in our community. Please feel free to reach out to me via email with your thoughts, suggestions and anything you would like to share in our next issue!

In this issue you will learn about the Recktenwald family and their contributions as doctors in our community. You will also find a calendar filled with interesting local events, another great recipe in our Kitchen Corner, photos from local events, a story in the Arts and Culture section about Broadway Stars coming to Village Theatre & Art Gallery, learn about residents and students giving back in the community, and so much more!

Send your articles and photos to eshahoian@bestversionmedia.com. I look forward to hearing from you. Did you know we are online? Follow us on Facebook @TheDanvilleLivingMagazine www.danvillelivingCA.com.

Eve Marie Shahoian Content Coordinator/Writer, Danville Resident Since 2013

Join the Lifestyle

Ceramic Coating Protection for

Aircraft - Auto - Industrial - Marine - Homes & Offices

www.Apollo-Restoration-Protection.com 800-618-5881 Apollo Restoration & Protection, LLC DANVILLE LIVING 3

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

Architects

Steven Wynn, AIA is an Architect with over twenty years’ experience designing custom homes, additions and remodels. A Cal Poly grad, Steven is NCARB certified and a LEED accredited professional with expertise in historic preservation and adaptive use. He and Blair Barry, a Danville native, are partners in their award-winning firm, Barry & Wynn Architects. Steven enjoys hiking with his camera and enjoying time with his family, including two young daughters.

Chiropractor

Dr. Mahsa Khodabakhsh is best known for her dedication to her patients. As the founder and director, her mission has always been to help people in need, not only by removing their pain but to inspire them to live life empowered. She has a diverse background and believes in a comprehensive approach to health and wellness utilizing personalized chiropractic care, nutritional counseling and the latest technologies.

Custom Medication

Part of the Tri-Valley Community for more than 20 years, Custom Care Compounding is family-owned and owner operated.

These communities are not just where we work, they are where we live. Our customers are not just patrons of our businesses, they are our neighbors. We are very grateful to be part of the Tri-Valley area and are committed to providing the most professional care along with the highest quality service.

Steve Wynn Barry & Wynn Architects 925-837-1422 stevew@barryandwynn.com www.barryandwynn.com

Dr. Mahsa Khodabakhsh, B.S., D.C. Empowered Chiropractic Pain Relief & Wellness Center (925) 523-7564 www.drmahsa.com

John Clauser Custom Care Compounding Pharmacy (925) 830-4631 alcostarx@gmail.com

Dentistry Paul Cannariato, DDS Danville Dental Care (925) 820-2121 www.paulcannariatodds.com

Dr. Paul Cannariato and his team have been providing friendly and professional care in Danville for over thirty years. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from the University of the Pacific in 1987, and thereafter studied Temporomandibular Disorders and Orofacial Pain at the University of California, San Francisco. In addition to his own practice he enjoys mentoring other dentists as a visiting faculty member of the Spear Institute.

Education

The Dorris-Eaton School serves preschool through eighth grade students and is recognized locally and nationally for its academic excellence. Strong writing, grammar, and reading classes are paired with interactive science, math and history courses. Foreign language, technology, art, music, and physical education are integral components of the program. Our experienced faculty provides the solid foundation that enables our graduates to succeed in the finest high schools and universities in the country.

Event Coordination and Design

Rayna Hess has over 15 years of experience in corporate and private event planning. She is an expert at bringing your vision to life, creating a spectacular event that friends and co-workers will talk about for years to come. Rayna’s sophisticated designs, and effortless management style, make her a preferred vendor at a number of popular, local venues including Blackhawk Country Club. As co-owner of Chairs for Affairs Party Rentals, she also has high quality event rentals at her fingertips for each of her clients.

Fashion

A Dress Change has been outfitting Danville and the surrounding areas since 2009. We are now the only women’s consignment shop in town and have grown our clientele to over 2500 consignors.

Our labels range from high-end couture such as Chanel and St. John to casual clothing such as Chicos and Eileen Fisher as well as purses, shoes and jewelry. A Dress Change prides itself on customer service and are here six days a week to serve your needs.

Financial

A Bay Area resident since 1985 I have spent my entire career as a financial advisor. I am committed to helping clients enjoy and preserve their wealth with sophisticated, personalized strategies. I accomplish this by designing and developing investment portfolios that reflect each client’s specific, long-term needs with a focused investment selection process and strategy implementation.

General Contractor

S&J Properties is a Design/Build company that specializes in residential remodeling construction projects. By performing both the design and construction, we provide the most beautiful, long-lasting and highest value remodeling projects in the industry. Our planning process is extremely thorough, which results in “no surprises” and a rapid and real timeline. Communication with clients, our partners and other regulatory organizations are optimized. We specialize in providing inspiring and custom solutions.

The Dorris-Eaton School (925) 930-9000 www.dorriseaton.org

Eventfully Yours Event Designs Rayna Hess (925) 370-1300 rayna@eventdesignsbyrayna.com www.eventdesignsbyrayna.com

Jonni Smith A Dress Change Consignment (925) 855-5581 www.ADressChangeConsignment.com

Jeff Gustafik Wells Fargo Advisors LLC (925) 472-5200 jeff.gustafik@wfadvisors.com www.umanziogustafik.wfadv.com

Jim Long S&J Properties Office: (925) 820-2924 Cell: (925) 575-0183 jim@propertiesbysj.com www.propertiesbysj.com

4

JANUARY 2019

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

Jewelry, Diamonds & Timepieces

Steve and Judy Padis own and operate Padis Jewelry, which has four locations in the San Francisco Bay Area. They founded the company in 1974 and are proud to have earned a reputation as one of the finest jewelers in San Francisco, serving generations of clients for their most precious moments in life, from engagement to anniversary to milestone gifts. Padis Jewelry maintains top-tier relationships with the most sought-after designers including Tacori, Forevermark, Verragio, Breitling, Tag Heuer, and Roberto Coin. As members of the American Gem Society, Padis is among the top 5% of jewelers across the country.

Mortgage

Lynn and Kelly have more than 25 years in the industry, Lynn brings a broad base of knowledge and experience to your transaction. Focused on solutions, she has built and maintained a strong referral base through diligence, persistence and puts e client’s needs first. Given the ever-changing environment of lending, Kelly strives to make the home buying process as simple and stress-free as possible.

Music/ Singing Lessons

Elizabeth works as a Professional Lyric Coloratura Soprano, Private Voice Teacher, Philanthropist. Ms. Hunter Ashley specializes as a Soloist in Oratorio, Opera, Concert, Sacred, Musical, and Cabaret. She performs in and around the San Francisco Bay Area, the United States, and internationally with renowned conductors. As a Private Voice teacher Elizabeth is the sole proprietor of The Elizabeth Hunter Ashley Performance Studio in Danville, California.

Steve Padis Steve Padis Jewelry info@padisjewelry.com www.padisjewelry.com

Lynn Eskew and Kelly Allen Diversified Capital Funding / NMLS#1850 Lynn 925-899-0777 Kelly 925-457-1738 lynn@divcap.net kelly@divcap.net

Elizabeth Hunter Ashley The Performance Studio 925-548-2694 Elizabeth@elizabethhunterashley.com www.elizabethhunterashley.com

Pool Service

Jon Lubrano, President Atlantis Pools Inc (925) 736-0447 info@atlantispoolsdanville.com www.atlantispoolsdanville.com

Atlantis Pools Inc is a family owned business that has been serving Contra Costa County for over 25 years. From pool repair, maintenance needs, remodels and updates, no job is too big or small for us. We take pride in the high quality service we give to each customer.

Real Estate

Barbara loves working with families wanting to find the home of their dreams and has been helping people make all the right moves since 2003! She works with clients to advocate on their behalf. A Relocation and Luxury Specialist, assisting families moving

Senior Living/Assisted Living

Andrea Campisi is the Director of Marketing for The Reutlinger Community, rated 5 stars, that provides high quality health care to seniors for Assisted Living, Enhanced Assisted Living, Memory Care, Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing.

She has worked with the elderly for many years and is an advocate for making their lives the best possible.

Tree Service

Buena Vista Tree Service is committed to preserving our urban forests and environment. They recycle 100% of our green waste into a reusable landscaping product. Trex safely and efficiently handles all types of tree emergencies 24 hours a day to eliminate tree risks to people and property and significantly reduce your liability exposure.

Veterinary

Blackhawk Veterinary Hospital is a full-service hospital serving Danville and the surrounding East Bay. Our clients and patients are considered an extension of the Blackhawk Veterinary Hospital family, and we strive to provide excellent and compassionate care combined with outstanding customer service. From vaccines to surgery we have all of your veterinary needs covered.

Barbara Wilson, SRES Coldwell Banker Barbara (925) 989-9559 barb.wilson@cbnorcal.com

Andrea Campisi The Reutlinger Community (925) 964-2062 acampisi@rcjl.org www.rcjl.org

Trex Donovan Buena Vista Tree Service 925-449-1203 ntdonovan@yahoo.com buenavistatree.com

Dr. Nick Bricaud DVM Blackhawk Veterinary Hospital (925) 736-7440 drnick@blackhawkvet.com www.blackhawkvet.com

We Are Now Online!! www.DanvilleLivingCA.com

DANVILLE LIVING 5

Resident Feature

Meet the

Dr. Aimee and her father Dr. Emil Eyvazzadeh work together.

Recktenwald Family: Sharing a Life as Doctors

“O

By Eve Marie Shahoian, Danville Resident since 2013

nly the healing art enables one to make a name for himself and at the same time give benefit to others” is a Chinese proverb that closely connects to the work of medical doctors and is exactly the type of compassionate healing Drs. Aimee Eyvazzadeh and Matt Recktenwald know well. Aimee and Matt not only share a bond through the nature of their work, but they’re also married and parents to four beautiful children.

So how does one doctor meet and marry another doctor? Online, of course! Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh and Dr. Matt Recktenwald’s story is a bit different than most modern couples as it was one initially facilitated by Aimee’s mom. Yes, that’s right – Aimee’s mom did the online searching, and it turns out she knew her daughter well.

Fast-forward some ten years later and the Drs. have a house full of love in West Danville where they are raising their children Luke (10), Matthias (7), Caroline (5) and Brianna (2). Danville is an area familiar to Dr. Aimee as she grew up in Alamo, attending Stone Valley Middle

School and Monte Vista High School.

For the past decade, Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh (who is referred to professionally as Dr. Aimee) has been a fertility specialist in a private practice where she lovingly helps hundreds of patients each year. Meanwhile, Dr. Matt Recktenwald is an Emergency Room physician at San Ramon Regional Center and Kaiser in Walnut Creek.

In addition to sharing a passion for medicine with her husband, Dr. Aimee also shares her life work with her father, Dr. Emil Eyvazzadeh.

Dr. Aimee’s dad has been touching people’s lives as an OB/GYN for 45 years. It doesn’t stop there. Dr. Aimee’s sister Johnica is also part of the family affair in medicine. She works as an Anesthesiologist, which has meant there have been occasions where all three (father and sisters) have worked with the same patient in the operating room!

Dr. Aimee graduated from UCLA School of Medicine and completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Harvard Medical

6

JANUARY 2019

School and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. She also completed a fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility at the University of Michigan and holds a Masters in Public Health Management and Policy from the University of Michigan. Dr. Aimee’s reach has extended far past Danville as she’s become one of America’s most well known fertility doctors. It’s her success rate at baby-making, combined with her hands-on approach to care, that attract attention and patients from all over the country, and beyond!

Dr. Aimee’s mission is to bring more love into the world by helping people conceive. Her patients endearingly call her their “Egg Whisperer.” As Dr. Aimee explains, “The best way to help people is through highly personalized fertility care and by treating each patient like they’re my only one.” Yet it wasn’t her baby-making that initially put her in the media spotlight, instead it was, and still is, her “Egg Freezing Parties.” Media outlets like People magazine, The Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS Morning, Fox Network, and countless local and international newscasts have highlighted her work in bringing awareness to fertility issues.

It’s through these “Egg Freezing Parties” and a weekly show broadcast on social media called “The Egg Whisperer Show” that Dr. Aimee extends her care beyond Danville. The weekly show offers simple answers to common fertility questions and concerns. Dr. Aimee thrives on educating people about fertility testing panels so they can understand their fertility, regardless of where they live. Above all else

Dr. Aimee is passionate about imparting people with the knowledge that fertility is precious and must be preserved and protected!

In the Recktenwald family they live by the motto, “if you can believe it, you can achieve it.” “It’s an honor to touch families’ lives as we do and for myself helping families expand. Our work is incredibly rewarding, making my husband and I feel even more closely connected to our own family and community.” They actively practice a positive mental attitude at home and with work. “We feel like it’s very important for our children to always give their best effort, to be supported, and to be loved unconditionally. It is never a dull moment in our home or my practice, and when it comes to activities, our kids run the show.

Lacrosse, basketball, baseball, cub scouts, dance and the pet fish – there’s always something going on!” Recently, Matt’s sister Melissa Kosciusko and her husband Matt moved to the area with their son Ciaran and daughter Lyla. All of the cousins attend St. Isidore school, and the collective family has managed to have a child in each grade, from Kindergarten through 5th! The cousins will have wonderful memories growing up together. The Recktenwald family love living in the community because of the love and support they feel from their neighbors and schools.

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 eshahoian@bestversionmedia.com.

DANVILLE LIVING 7

Pet Adoption Corner

Manny

Kit Kat

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.

One-year-old Manny is a goofball with great enthusiasm for playtime! This active pup is looking for the same in a guardian: long hikes, tug, chase games, food-puzzles -- he’s game for games!

The adoption fee for puppies <6 months is $300, for adult dogs is $250, and includes a discount on the first six-week session of a manners class.

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.

One-year-old Kit Kat is an outgoing and sociable young lady who is fond of people and easily makes new friends with them.

She’s a very perky and active girl who would love to have a houseful of toys to play with in her forever home. She’s fond of petting and looks forward to being pampered by her forever family. In return, she’ll be a great companion.

The adoption fee for kittens <6 months $125 and for adult cats is $75.

Get Cash From Your Home

a Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corporation NMLS #1850

FOUR OPTIONS TO UTILIZING UNTAPPED EQUITY. CONSOLIDATE YOUR DEBT

LOWER PAYMENT

CASH OUT

KEEP PAYMENTS FROM RISING

If you want to get out from under high interest rate charges from credit cards, student loans, or other forms of debt, then a cash-out refinance might be the solution for you.

A great way to save money on your home loan is to refinance for a lower interest rate. Just a small drop in interest rate can lower your mortgage payment significantly.

Refinancing your home to take advantage of its equity can be a great way to get the funds you need for home improvements, retirement, vacations and more.

Do you plan to stay in your home for an extended period?

If so, then refinancing to a fixed-rate mortgage is a great way to keep your payment from rising.

Call us today, let’s discuss your options.

Sales Manager

NMLS #261078

Kelly Allen

925.457.1738 Web: www.divcap.net/kelly-allen Facebook: @divcapfundingalamo

Sr. Loan Officer

NMLS #310381

Lynn Eskew 925.899.0777

Web: www.divcap.net/lynn-eskew Facebook: @divcapfundingalamo

Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. Diversified Capital Funding is a Branch of American Pacific Mortgage Corporation. This is not an offer to extend credit or a commitment to lend. All loans subject to underwriting approval.

Some products may not be available in all states and restrictions apply. Equal Housing Opportunity. Copyright © 2018 Diversified Capital Funding a Division of American Pacific Mortgage, NMLS #1850, DRE #01215943 | 3201 Danville Blvd, Suite 295, Alamo, CA 94507

8

JANUARY 2019

Real Estate Listings in West Danville Addresses in Bold are Seller’s/Buyer’s represented by Ron and Joe Gatti | 12/10/18

Active Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

Active Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

211 Del Amigo Rd $2,295,000 918 Podva Ln $2,495,000 San Ramon Valley Blvd $575,000 San Ramon Valley Blvd. $675,000 Garden Creek Pl $719,000 Elworthy Ranch Dr $900,000 Elworthy Ranch Dr $949,000 Elworthy Ranch Dr $949,000 River Rock Ln $994,500

Elworthy Ranch Ln $999,000 Matteson Ct $1,049,000 Nadine Pl $1,199,000 Elsie Dr $1,249,000 Camino Encanto $1,299,000 BRIAR PLACE $1,449,000 Corte Encanto $1,489,000 Kuss Road $1,999,900 Cambridge Ct $2,175,000

4722 2199 1114 1301 1357 1752 1752 1804 1544

5 5 2 3 3 3 3 3 3

2.5 3 1 2 2 2 2 2 2

Pending Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths Ilo Lane San Ramon Valley Blvd Corte Encanto Westridge Avenue

$519,500 $559,000 $1,149,900 $1,159,000

1012 1114 1251 2004

2 2 3 4

1807 1812 1417 1908 1587 3158 2103 4050 3307

3 3 3 6 3 5 4 5 4

2 2 2 3 3 3 2 4 3

Pending Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

1 1 2 2

Estates Dr Highland Dr Starview Dr

$1,598,000 $1,699,000 $1,898,000

2332 2725 3172

3 4 4

2 3 3

Sold Listings Sold Listings List Price Sold Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths Street List Price Sold Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths Street W Prospect Ave

$629,000

$635,000

847

2

2

Van Gordon Pl

$1,599,000 $1,600,000

2850

4

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in this magazine is separate from any statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

DANVILLE LIVING 9

2

Save the date: Thurs., Feb. 21

Calendar of Events

January Thurs., Jan.10 Opening Reception for Symphony of Color Abstracts in Review @Village Theatre & Art Gallery The Town of Danville Presents Symphony of Color Abstracts in Review! The Art Gallery kicks off the New Year with a burst of color in the abstract art exhibition featuring the works of the South Bay painting group abstract7.

The group is influenced by cubism and abstract expressionism, and they are united by their passion for personal expression through abstract nonobjective art. Live music by The Jazz Room and complimentary refreshments will be served. The Village Theatre & Art Gallery is open to visitors Wednesday through Friday 12:00pm to 5:00pm and Saturday 11:00am to 3:00pm and Monday and Tuesday by appointment only. Exhibit runs through March 2nd. For more information, contact Visual Arts Coordinator Marija Nelson Bleier @ 925314-3460 or visit www. villagetheatreshows.com.

Time: 5:30 to 7:30pm Cost: Free

Tues., Jan. 15 Composing Together Program @Danville Public Library Celebrate the New Year with some music and fun! Have you ever been curious about how music gets made? Well, join us for our Composing Together Program where kids will collaborate with professional composers and a poet (Diana Rowan, harp/Katie Wreede, viola/Alan Berg, poet) to create sounds and discover how different musical roles work together to create a wonderful whole.Sponsored by the

Friends of the Danville Library.

Age Group(s): Kids (5-11), Preschoolers, All Ages Time: 4:00 - 4:40pm Cost: Free For more information contact Janet Alexander (925) 3143750 jalexand@ccclib.org

Wed., January 16 BBR Connector’s @Danville Area Chamber Offices One of the Chambers successful business by referral groups, The Connector’s meet the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another.

Time: 9-10am For more information email Zaa Perrin member@ danvilleareachamber.com

Thurs., January 17 St. Isidore School TK/Kindergarten Informational Meeting @ St. Isidore School Please join us for our TK/ Kindergarten Informational Open House! At St. Isidore School we believe that early education lays the foundation for your child’s educational experience. Through hands-on learning, children are guided to develop intellectually, socially, emotionally and spiritually.

We encourage you to visit and see what makes our school so special. RSVP at www. stisidore.org or by calling or texting (925) 389-8190.

Let your child grow with us!

Time: 10:00am Cost: Free

Fri., Jan.18 The Jazz Room Presents Jim Carusos Cast Party with Billy Stritch on Piano @Village Theatre & Art Gallery “You kids are helping keep

Danville Living Magazine 3rd Anniversary Celebration @Auburn Lounge Come celebrate Danville Living Magazine’s 3rd Year Anniversary at Auburn Lounge located in beautiful downtown Danville! You will enjoy a complimentary glass of wine or beer and appetizers!

It’s a night to toast and give thanks to our amazing advertisers, expert contributors and everyone in the West Danville community who contributes content to our publication. We are a magazine written for the people and by the residents, and we couldn’t do it without you!

No Host Bar Additional Drinks And Cocktails Time: 5-6:30pm

the American Songbook alive!” Tony Bennett Think “American Idol” meets “The Tonight Show.” Imagine Martin Short and Liza throw a hip house party around the baby grand…and you’re invited! Cast Party is a wildly popular happening that has brought Broadway glitz and urbane wit to the legendary Birdland in New York City every Monday night since 2003. It is the ultimate spot to mix and mingle with show folk and the people who love them. Cast Party is a hilariously impromptu variety show/open mic where showbiz superstars and up-andcomers deliver jaw-dropping musical performances and razzle-dazzle. You just never know WHO will show up!

“Cast Party is cabaret church, and Jim Caruso is its Irreverent Reverend.”

Ann Hampton Callaway Arrive by 7pm to enjoy complimentary appetizers and one glass of wine!

Time: 8pm Cost: Pre-sale $25 Door $30 Tickets: www. villagetheatreshows.com Follow on Facebook @ TheJazzRoomDanville.com

Thurs., Jan. 24 2019 Business KickOff and Board Installation Crab Feed @Danville Community Center Come help us kick-off the 2019 business year at this popular networking event.

Includes: Russ Belleci Famous Crab Dinner, Dessert, soda & glass of wine Purchase tickets

10

through Eventbrite Cost: $50 on or before Jan. 1, 2019 and $60 after.

Time:6-9pm Limited seats available!

Every Saturday Farmers’ Market @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 fresh-cut 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

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.

More information at www. giannissanramon.com

JANUARY 2019

We Care for Your Parents Like You Would.

al Goals? now.

At The Reutlinger Community, we treat your parents as if they were our own, while providing a continuum of care designed to keep spouses together and provide peace of mind for the entire family.

25 years, Jeff has been providing customized unbiased financial solutions to Bay Area families. To learn more about his proce • Personalized support by our 24/7 licensed nurses • Daily scheduled transportation • Resident and family support • Programming the whole family can get involved in

WE ARE ONLINE! www.DanvilleLivingCA.com

Experience The Reutlinger Community for yourself.

Schedule your tour today. 925-263-9966

Share our magazine with your friends and family today!

4000 Camino Tassajara LLC. All rights reserved. Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC-Insured NO Bank Guarantee MAY Lose value Danville, CA 94506 Network, L ame used by two separate registered broker-dealers: Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial

www.DanvilleLivingCA.com

www.rcjl.org

Assisted Living | Memory Care | Short-Term Rehabilitation License #075600335

Are You On Track With Your Financial Goals?

Without a written plan you won’t know.

Jeff Gustafik Senior Vice President-Investments Wells Fargo Advisors 2033 North Main Street Suite 1075 Walnut Creek, CA 94596

(925) 472-5200

jeff.gustafik@wfadvisors.com ca Insurance Lic #OA31442

Retirement Planning Business Succession Planning Investment Management Educational Funding Estate Planning Strategies As a trusted advisor for more than 25 years, Jeff has been providing customized unbiased financial solutions to Bay Area families. To learn more about his process call or email today to schedule a conversation or complimentary consultation.

© 2009-2016 Wells Fargo Advisors. All rights reserved. Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC-Insured NO Bank Guarantee MAY Lose value. Wells Fargo Advisors is the trade name used by two separate registered broker-dealers: Wells Fargo Advisors and Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, Members SIPC, non-bank affiliates of Wells Fargo & Company.

DANVILLE LIVING 11

YOUR LOCAL BUILDING AND REMODELING COMPANY

WE SPECIALIZE AND CAN INTEGRATE ALL OF THESE AREAS: • • • • • • • • • •

Design & Engineering Additions Kitchens Bathrooms Show Garages Flooring Windows Media Systems Cabanas Pools

• • • • • • • • • •

Crown Moulding Iron Railing Stone & Tile Roofing HVAC Systems Smart Homes Painting Custom Cabinets New Construction Landscape

OUR MISSION

S&J Properties is excited to announce the opening of the new S&J Design Center, located in the Rose Garden Shopping Center in Danville, CA. A leader in the Tri-Valley area building & remodeling industry, S&J Properties has achieved a reputation for quality, innovation, and beautifully inspired designs.

Our expert team stays current on the latest products, trends, and technology in the industry.

The S&J Design Center helps our team add a comprehensive and personal design experience, in a warm and welcoming environment. These qualities combined with our fair and honest approach, results in the best remodeling experience and helps achieve S&J’s overall objective of continuing to make customer service and satisfaction our top priority.

The S&J Design Center offers a variety of mid-to-high end products including; wood flooring, carpet, floor, wall, and glass tile, counter tops, window coverings and much more. Contact us and begin your personalized design experience!

Call Today! 925-820-2924 MAKE YOUR HOME YOUR DREAM.

FROM CONCEPTION TO COMPLETION, WE CAN HANDLE IT ALL.

Living & Working in the Community Since 1990 12

We are committed to being the premiere remodeling company of our clients' dreams. Through integrity, professionalism, innovation, quality and service, we build enduring value and lasting relationships.

ABOUT US

S&J Properties is a Design/Build company that specializes in residential and commercial remodeling construction projects. By performing both the design Jim Long and construction, we provide the most beautiful, long-lasting and highest value remodeling projects in the industry. Our planning process is extremely thorough, which results in “no surprises” and a rapid and real timeline. Communication with clients, our partners, the city, and other regulatory organizations is consistent and frequent so our timelines are optimized.

We specialize in providing inspiring and custom solutions; whether it is a kitchen, bathroom, single room, landscaping, or an entire home or building. We invite you to take some time to explore us for yourself; talk with our clients and see a sampling of the high-quality work we perform.

www.propertiesbysj.com General Contractor License #993363 Class B

JANUARY 2019

People, Faces and Places

By The Town of Danville Painting by James Ong, an experimental painter drawn towards Eastern thinking and aesthetics, especially Zen Buddhism and Japanese art and design because they free his imagination to wander and play without constraint. The themes of his paintings are memory, quiet places, impermanence, movement, energy, despair, and hope. His work can be viewed among other abstracts in review now through March 2nd in the Gallery at Village Theatre Art Gallery. www.villagetheatreshows.com

Dozens of Danville children dropped off letters to the North Pole, which (thanks to our amazing volunteers) get answered every year before Dec 24.

Restorative and cosmetic dentistry: • Full mouth rehabilitations • All porcelain crowns and bridges

Three of our wonderful volunteers helped out at this year’s Elf Workshop.

Lighting of the Old Oak Tree – Despite the cold and wet conditions, thousands turned out for the annual Lighting of the Old Oak Tree.

• TMJ • Dentures • Invisilign

Did you know that there are very different kinds of General Dental Practices? Most people don't. Dr. Cannariato takes the time to teach each patient factual, objective information that enables you to co-discover and make informed decisions about your oral health.

Listening, Caring, ExplainingHelping you achieve oral fitness for life

400 El Cerro Blvd., Suite 201, Danville, CA 94526 • (925) 820-2121 • www.paulCannariatoDDS.com

DANVILLE LIVING 13

Expert Contributor

What is Wellness?

By Dr. Mahsa Khodabakhsh, B.S., D.C., Empowered Chiropractic

W

e often don’t stop to ask ourselves what wellness is.

Is it only the absence of illness? Or is it its own thing, something better than baseline?

At Empowered Chiropractic Pain Relief & Wellness Center we firmly believe that wellness is an optimal state, way past “okay” where you feel as strong, replenished, and powerful as possible.

What that feels like for you may be different than how that feels for your neighbor, or even how that felt at a younger age for you.

Beyond “not sick,” it’s when all systems in your body are working optimally, easily, with minimum effort.

Ingredients to Wellness When you’re at your healthiest, what’s going on? You’re sleeping well. Your digestive system is doing its job gracefully, without incident. Your skin, nails and hair are in good condition, and any injury you sustain heals quickly. You don’t pick up the illnesses going around at school or the office. You have energy to get things done, and your body does daily tasks almost effortlessly.

How does one reach this optimal wellness?

Not by accident. Proactive health management, fostering proper

functioning for all your systems, is needed to keep your body running smoothly.

The one system that connects and affects everything in your body is your nervous system. It’s the information superhighway of your body, keeping your organs and tissues healthy.

Many people think that Chiropractic Care focuses on the skeletal system. And in a way, that’s true. What chiropractic does is ensure that the spine and other skeletal junctures properly enable and protect your nervous system. Pinched or compacted nerves are like blocked roads for information and resources in your body, and Chiropractic looks to clear those roads.

Above all, you must take action to make a wellness change. To increase and maintain your best wellness, schedule a chiropractic visit. You can have your nutrition evaluated, have your posture and skeletal alignment checked, and evaluate other factors that may be the gateway to increasing your sensations of wellness.

“Empowered Body, Empowered Life!”

CREATING AND TRANSFORMING SPACES GREAT AND SMALL. WE'RE HERE TO HELP WITH YOUR REMODEL, ADDITION, OUTDOOR ROOM, OR NEW HOME.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION TODAY.

AFTER

925.837.1422 117 TOWN & COUNTRY DR. SUITE G, DANVILLE, in the Shopping Center behind Walgreens and McCaulou’s

BEFORE 14

WWW.BARRYANDWYNN.COM JANUARY 2019

Recipe

Succulent Roasted Chicken

By Suzanne Jacobus, Resident since 2015

Roasted chicken is one of my all-time favorite comfort foods.This is the way I learned to roast a chicken growing up.

I think there are a thousand different ways, but this works for me.

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • •

1 (5 to 6 pound) roasting chicken ¼ cup melted butter Olive oil Salt and pepper 1 large lemon 4 to 5 medium potatoes 1 large onion 3 or 4 carrots (Any other root vegetables that you have on hand)

Directions:

Pre-heat the oven to 375 degrees.

Wash and paper towel dry the chicken.

Salt and pepper the outside and inside of the cavity.

Let the chicken sit out of the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes.

Rub the butter all over the chicken.

Squeeze the juice of the lemon over the chicken then place remainder in the cavity of the chicken.

Place the chicken on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.

Roast for 1 ½ hours (this varies depending on whether you have a convection oven).

Toss the cut up vegetables with olive oil salt and pepper place in the bottom of the roasting pan for the last 45 minutes.

Chicken is done when the juice between the leg and thigh runs clear. You can also test with an automatic read thermometer at 160 degrees.

Tent the chicken with foil and let sit out for 20 minutes before serving.

Enjoy!

Suzanne Jacobus Alain Pinel Realtors sjacobus@apr.com.

DANVILLE LIVING 15

Charity Spotlight

Residents, Schools and Local Business Raise Money for a Great Cause

By Carrie Rivera, Resident since 2001

S

ix months ago my kids and I came across a man in Tahoe, struggling to walk. My daughter said, as we were approaching him on an isolated street, “Mom, don’t bother him.” I promised my daughter I wouldn’t unless he needed us. As we got closer we noticed he was trembling on his walker and he asked me to grab his car parked in his driveway a hundred yards away. By the time I got the car close enough, my daughter and I could not lift his weak body into the car and he had to lower himself to the ground, which was so awful for him. A neighbor was able to lift him into his car eventually, where his hand controls are located, but at this point he was exhausted. We could not shake this experience, and we were inspired by the drive this man had to try and walk given his Neurological disorder, which impairs the bottom half of his body. Later we learned, in his 40’s, he was diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder that mimics MS. My kids and I decided to start a fundraiser called Change of Change. We have motivated soccer opponents at my kids games to bring change to raise money for a good cause along with some

old fashioned door to door collections. These small strong girls who fought a good battle on the soccer field ALL celebrated on behalf of bringing change for Scott. Though one team won and one lost, it felt like a WIN all the way around that day! Their huge smiles at the end of the battle was proof of coming together for a greater cause!

Another club was started at SRVHS by Kennedy Rivera, It’s called “Walk For Scott.” She has about 30 members so far and will continue fundraising for the rest of the year. Scott was the inspiration, but she will be raising money for other causes in the future. We hope to raise money for people like Scott, who never asked for a thing. He has since learned of the hard work all these kids put forth on his behalf. It made him feel overwhelmed with gratitude, that he, unknowingly, was inspiring others.

As a result, we have raised over $1,550 to date and have been able to buy this man an adjusted bed that will ease his discomfort. He W e lig Of ht fer si C ns hr ta ist lla m tio as ns

SPECIAL

16 LED Up Lights (K16152) Path Lights (K15470) or mix it up!

300 Watt Transformer, Photocell & Simple timer Installation Included, Free Consultation 10 Year Warranty Normal Price $6000 Special Limited Time Offer:

$5,299

16

JANUARY 2019

Expert Contributor still needs a few things like new flooring and adjustments to his car. I am a member of Fitness 19, and thankfully they jumped on board to support this cause. My kids made signs and there is a jar at Fitness 19 explaining a bit about the fundraiser. Sebastian, the manager at Fitness 19, was so great to support the cause and agreed to continue collecting change through January. I love the support our local gym has shown, and we are so grateful for our healthy, strong bodies.The day we met Scott changed our lives for the better. Thank you to everyone who has contributed. If you would like to contribute to our fundraiser please contact me @ carrie3765@gmail.com.

Happy National Pet Health Insurance Month!

By Kristine Myhre, Blackhawk Veterinary Hospital

P

ets are the furry members of the family, and every family should want the best for their members. You wouldn’t send your kids out into the world without health insurance, so why should your pets be any different? Pet insurance is beneficial for the unforeseen accidents and illnesses that may come upon your pet during its lifetime. While buying pet insurance can be an economic and emotional decision, it should be one that is strongly considered early on in your pet’s life. Just remember that pet insurance allows you the option of a higher standard of veterinary care that you might not have otherwise been able to afford. Don’t let your bank account determine the care and treatment your pet should receive. Contact Blackhawk Veterinary Hospital to find out which insurance company we recommend so your pet can make the most of life without the worry of cost.

Lyric Coloratura Soprano Private Voice Teacher Adjudicator, Recording Artist 2018 Best of Danville Vocal Instructor by Danville Award Program March 2018 featured soloist with Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra 2017-2018 Pinnacle Prtofessional Member of Continental Who's Who 2016 Professional of the Year in Entertainment/Vocal Education and Performance Stratmore's Who's Who

(925) 449-1203

www.elizabethhunterashley.com

DANVILLE LIVING 17

Expert Contributor

Long coat vs. Short coat

By Jonni Smith, A Dress Change

L

et’s face it, California’s winter hasn’t been like most, cold one day, hot the next, therefore our coats have been used quite often these days. The question is, is that coat the correct length for you? Is it flattering to your height and the length of your legs? If you are short or your legs are short, the incorrect length of your coat could be making you look even shorter or that you have shorter legs. A coat should look tailored, as if it were made just for you, and the length plays an important part of this tailored look. A perfect length for short legs or someone short in height is the bottom of the coat should sit right where your leg begins.

Many women like their coats long because it covers the bum, we all want to hide what we don’t like, but for women that weren’t blessed with long legs or that runway model height, covering the bum is causing us to look even shorter. When a coat hits the correct length, it elongates the body and legs, giving the illusion that you are taller with longer legs. So on your next trip shopping for a coat, try different lengths and see what a difference the

length of a coat can do for your body type.

Signing off from Jedediah Smith State Park, have a great day.

Jonni

Empowered Pain Relief and Wellness Center

Specializing in: Chiropractic Care Weight Loss Laser Lipo

Fitness Conditioning Purification Cold Laser Therapy Neuropathy

Nutritional Response Testing Consultation

$49

NRT will provide a personalized regimen of real food supplements designed to match the needs of the body to improve your overall health!

Dr. Mahsa Khodabakhsh, B.S., D.C. Chiropractic Physician & Wellness Consultant

913 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Ste 180, Danville, CA 94526

empoweredchiropracticdanville.com | empowered@drmahsa.com 18

JANUARY 2019

A DRESS CHANGE A Women's Upscale Cosignment clothier

Dr. Nick Bricaud Hours of operation: M-F: 8:00am - 6:00pm Sat: 8:30am - 2:00pm Phone: 925-736-7440

www.blackhawkvet.com Special Services offered: Digital Radiographs, Ultrasound, In-house Laboratory Services, Dentistry, Surgical Services, Grooming services, and Cat Boarding

125 Railroad Ave. Suite B Danville, CA 94526 www.adresschangecosignment.com

(925) 855-5581

DANVILLE LIVING 19

Arts and Culture

Broadway Stars Come to The Jazz Room at Village Theatre!

By Stephanie Seaberg, Resident since 2014

W

ho doesn’t love a good party? When was the last time you were in a room filled with charismatic theater legends belting out some of your favorite show tunes in an intimate space with friends? This is just another normal night at the Birdland Jazz club in New York City. Jim Caruso is the razor-sharp master of razzle-dazzle behind this high energy, nonstop, show stopper that will leave you glowing with nostalgia and whispering to your friends “Oh my God, I love this song!” Celebrating it’s 15 year anniversary, Caruso is bringing his famed theater extravaganza ‘Cast Party’ to The Jazz Room at Village Theater, performing one night only, Friday, January 18th at 8pm.

“You kids are helping keep the American Songbook alive!” Tony Bennett What began as a casual gathering of theater singers to serenade one another with their favorite show tunes, quickly grew in popularity and was organically transformed into what cast party is today, a soirée of songs both old and new covering everything from Hello Dolly to Hamilton. It goes without saying that great

music couldn’t happen without a great pianist. Billy Stritch lends his titillating fingertips on the baby grand along with a carefree, off-the-cuff persona that will make you laugh and tap your feet all night. Caruso and Stritch have a show that can be described as anything but routine or predictable. With a constantly evolving guest list, it is impossible to foresee the barrage of performers slated to take the stage. Icons of Broadway, as well as up-and-coming artists both local and from afar, provide loose and playful performances of songs that they have personally chosen, some of which may surprise you. The audience is just as much a part of the show as its singers. With a show this infectious, it wouldn’t surprise you to hear your hosts shout out “Altogether now!” as the entire room swells with the final note of All that Jazz. ‘Cast Party’ has toured through London, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, Austin, Dallas, Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Miami as well as the

20

JANUARY 2019

Lincoln Center in Manhattan. ‘Cast Party’ has been honored with three Broadway World Awards, a MAC Award, Bistro Award and a Night Life Award.

For Tickets 925-314-3400

visit

www.villagetheatreshows.com

or

call

24 24 HOUR PROOF HOUR PROOF 24 HOUR PROOF

“The King of Showbiz hosts the mother of all open mic nights...

Jim Caruso has some of the slickest and quickest commentary I’ve ever heard.”

London Jazz·News San Ramon · Danville · Blackhawk Alamo · Diablo

Arrive by 7pm to enjoy compelmentary appetizers and one glass DATE of wine!

DATE

PLEASE REPLY PROMPTLY Follow @The Jazz Room Danville on Facebook PLEASE REPLY PROMPTLY

DATE THIS AD WILL RUN AS IS UNLESS WE San Ramon · Danville· Dublin · Blackhawk · Alamo · Diablo Walnut Creek · Lafayette · Pleasanton · Livermore THIS AD WILL RUN AS IS UNLESS WE www.evemarieshahoian.com Walnut · Lafayette Pleasanton · ·Dublin · Livermore Vacaville · Fairfield · Travis AFB · because Suisun· City Dixon Winters “Cast party is aCreek success of ·Jim Caruso and the affectionsRECEIVE CHANGES PRIOR TO PRESS. PLEASE REPLY PROMPTLY Vacaville · Fairfield · Travis AFB · Suisun City · Dixon · Winters RECEIVE CHANGES PRIOR TO PRESS. for theatrical community for him.

He’s talented and funny San Ramon · Danville · feels Blackhawk · Alamo · Diablo Founding/Artistic Director THIS AD WILL RUN AS IS UNLESS WE Walnut Creek · Lafayette · Pleasanton · Dublin · Livermore email eastbay@yourtownmonthly.com phone 925.328.0888 fax 925.397.3038 and tenacious and bright. Cast party is exactly how I pictured Vacaville · Fairfield · Travis AFB · Suisun City · eastbay@yourtownmonthly.com Dixon · Winters email phone 925.328.0888 fax 925.397.303 RECEIVE CHANGES PRIOR TO PRESS. New York late night life when I dreamed of being on Broadway!”

Eve Marie Shahoian Liza Minnelli email eastbay@yourtownmonthly.com phone 925.328.0888

fax 925.397.3038

PROOF World Class Service at 24 an HOUR Affordable Price DATE

San Ramon · Danville · Blackhawk · Alamo · Diablo Walnut Creek · Lafayette · Pleasanton · Dublin · Livermore Vacaville · Fairfield · Travis AFB · Suisun City · Dixon · Winters

PLEASE REPLY PROMPTLY

World ClassClass Service at anatAffordable PricePrice World Service an Affordable World Class Service at an Affordable Price DRIVEWAYS • WALKWAYS On Selected DRIVEWAYS • WALKWAYS

Lifetime Warranty

email eastbay@yourtownmonthly.com

Lifetime Pavers Lifetime Warranty Warranty On Selected Lifetime On Selected Pavers Warranty Pavers On Selected Pavers

THIS AD WILL RUN AS IS UNLESS WE RECEIVE CHANGES PRIOR TO PRESS. phone 925.328.0888

fax 925.397.3038

RETAINING WALLS • LANDSCAPES RETAINING• WALKWAYS WALLS • LANDSCAPES DRIVEWAYS IRRIGATION • OUTDOOR LIGHTING DRIVEWAYS WALKWAYS LIGHTING IRRIGATION ••OUTDOOR RETAINING WALLS • LANDSCAPES POOL DECKS • OUTDOOR PATIOS RETAINING WALLS ••OUTDOOR LANDSCAPES POOL• DECKS IRRIGATION OUTDOOR LIGHTINGPATIOS ARTIFICIAL TURF LIGHTING IRRIGATION • OUTDOOR POOL DECKS • ARTIFICIAL OUTDOOR PATIOS TURF POOL DECKS • OUTDOOR PATIOS ARTIFICIAL DRIVEWAYS • WALKWAYS FREE Fire PitTURF or ARTIFICIAL TURF FREE Fire Pit or

World Class Service at an Affordable Price Lifetime Warranty On Selected Pavers

RETAINING WALLSDiscount • LANDSCAPES $500 Cash $500 Cash Discount FREE Fire Pit or IRRIGATION • OUTDOOR LIGHTING The Best Designers in the Bay Area for jobs over 800 sq. ft. for jobs over 800 sq. ft.

Expires 7/31/18 POOL DECKS • OUTDOOR PATIOS $500 Cash Discount Expires 7/31/18

The Rated800 Company forHighest jobs over sq. ft.on Yelp ARTIFICIAL TURF

The Best Designers in7/31/18 the Bay Area Expires TheFire Best Designers in the Bay Area Ask Us About theor Advantages FREE Pit The Highest Rated Company on Yelp of Interlocking Pavers The BestThe Designers inRated the Bay Area on Yelp $500 Cash Discount Highest Company for jobs over 800 sq. ft.

Ask Us About the Advantages Expires 7/31/18Company on Yelp The Highest Rated Ask UsPavers About the Advantages of Interlocking The Ask BestUs Designers in the Bay Area Pavers of Interlocking About the Advantages Visit Our Showrooms!

The Highest Rated Company on Yelp of Interlocking Pavers Visit Our Showrooms!

Call Today toCall Schedule Your FREE Estimate Lic: #972318 Lic: #972318 Today to Schedule Your FREE Estimate Visit Our Showrooms!

3148 Road, Concord Ask Us Clayton About the Advantages Clayton Road, Concord Call Today to Schedule Your FREE Estimate Lic: #972318 3148Visit Our Showrooms! of Interlocking Pavers 925.852.7438 • AtlasPaversCo.com 140 South Boulevard, San Mateo 3148 Clayton Road, Concord 925.852.7438 • AtlasPaversCo.com Call Today to Schedule Your •FREE Estimate Lic: #972318 140 South Boulevard, San Mateo 925.852.7438 AtlasPaversCo.com 3148 Clayton Road, Concord Visit Showrooms!

140Our South Boulevard, San Mateo Call Today to Schedule Your FREE Estimate Lic: #972318 DANVILLE LIVING 21 925.852.7438 • AtlasPaversCo.com 3148 Clayton Road, Concord 140 South Boulevard, San Mateo 925.852.7438 • AtlasPaversCo.com 140 South Boulevard, San Mateo

Expert Contributor

Considerations When Adding an In-Law Suite

By Jim Long, S&J Properties, General Contractor, Resident since 1991

M

ultigenerational households are on the rise, but there’s a lot to consider when dreaming up a new space for mom or dad.

Creating a distinct space at home for an aging parent to move into, whether it’s a separate backyard unit, a converted basement or bedroom or an added-on suite, is a major undertaking. But with its added peace of mind, potential savings and investment value, flexibility and emotional reward, it’s an undertaking that may be worth the effort for the right family. So how can homeowners know whether building out a home within-a-home for their loved ones is the best decision for them? Here are a few questions you can ponder before getting to work.

Will Your House and City allow It? The first thing homeowners need to determine is whether they’d be able to add an in-law suite to their property at all. City and municipal zoning ordinances and permitting requirements can get in the way of this type of construction or renovation, particularly if someone wants to build or convert a space that’s not attached to the main house. In the case of a separate structure (also known as an accessory dwelling unit, or ADU), many cities forbid or carefully restrict additional plumbing or gas lines, among other features.

What Accessibility Concerns Need to Be Addressed?

When adding an in-law suite, homeowners should be thinking through everything from including reinforced walls and grab bars to choosing mood-boosting paint colors. Other aging friendly design choices include flooring that’s not too slippery and not too textured and closely cropped carpet, minimal clutter, doors and hallways that are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs or walkers, lipless showers to prevent tripping and low-maintenance everything.

What’s Your Long-Term Plan?

Maybe your parents aren’t ready to move in with you, but you’d like to keep the option open in the future. Are there other things you could do with the space in the meantime? Are you able to rent it out? Use it as an office or guest room? Could it work as an apartment for your own adult children in a few years? What do you plan to do with it if your parent moves into an assistedliving facility or passes away? Along with planning ahead, even if your parents don’t plan to move in permanently, a separate suite might make sense for frequent longer visits, particularly if they’re visiting from far away.

Does It Make Financial Sense?

Accessory dwelling units present some financial challenges because many cities don’t have a lot of them for comparison, making it harder to get financing for their construction. It’s a

significant investment, but it can also be a wise one. It may be a more affordable option than long-term nursing care. The national average cost for semi-private and private nursing home rooms has continued to grow in recent years, with private rooms costing nearly $8,000 a month. When these suites are built using a universal design, they may make a home more valuable down the road, as there are so few houses available that are accessible to everyone.

Is It a Good Fit for Your Family?

Even if you have the ideal house for it, the in-law suite setup isn’t right for everyone. It can be a lot for an adult child to take on emotionally and it could create family strife. Communication and talking through all the ways this type of change will affect all members of the family is key.

If you are thinking of new remodeling ideas, getting the help from a qualified professional builder is worth the investment and long run value.

Our most important party is Yours!

Office - 925-370-1300 Cell - 925-330-2371

rayna@eventdesignsbyrayna.com http://www.eventdesignsbyrayna.com

Decor Installation Full Scale Event Planning Day of Coordination Event Design Event Consultations Event Rentals Eventfully Yours is a full-service event design, coordination and rental company with over 17 years experience. Whether you are planning a small intimate event, large celebration, corporate meeting, retreat, fundraiser or convention, no event is too big or too small. Our professional and passionate staff, pride themselves on making your event vision a reality!

Customer testimonial - “Working with Rayna was outstanding . She is professional and creative; managing every detail of our party from start to finish. Thank you is not enough for a lifelong memory! ” – Julie Low

22

JANUARY 2019

Expert Contributor

Ready or Not — Kindergarten Here I Come

By Peggy Arman, The Dorris-Eaton School

M

ost parents don’t take a cavalier approach with their child’s first formal educational experience. However, over-analyzing every move a four-year-old makes isn’t productive either. So, how do parents determine if their child is ready to begin kindergarten?

The first consideration is usually age because most private and public schools have a cut-off date: the date by which a child must be five. However, experts agree that chronological age is only one piece of the puzzle. It should not be the determining factor. A child’s social/emotional, physical, academic, and learning preparedness are the considerations which should help guide the decision.

Being ready to learn can be critical to success at school. For a child about to enter kindergarten, look at how well he communicates and listens. Does he speak in complete sentences most of the time and understand and follow two-step directions?

Is he focused and attentive when a book is read? Is he able to

H MESWEET CARE H MES CUSTOM CARE SOLUTIONS

We offer a genuinely warm and happy home created by our family for yours.

We are a 6-Bed Community Nested in the Residential Area of Alamo and Concord

(510) 507-2679

info@HomeSweetCareHomes.com

3 Navajo Ct., Alamo, Ca 94507 1584 Dianda Dr., Concord, CA 94521

www.HomeSweetCareHomes.com Please call to schedule a tour.

wait when the need arises? Can he successfully follow a routine?

Another consideration is academic readiness. Being curious is key. Does your child wonder about the world around him and ask questions? After hearing a story, is he able to reasonably retell the story and connect it to his own life? Letter and number recognition shows readiness. A conceptual understanding of math includes the ability to count, recognize one-to-one correspondence, and identify quantity—groupings which show greater than and less than.

Sometimes there is a tendency to overemphasis a child’s cognitive ability. A child’s social/emotional development is critical to enjoying school and being successful. Can your child express his feelings? When interacting with other children, how well does he share, take turns, compromise, and problem solve?

Assess your child’s independence. Is he able to separate from you, dress himself, and take responsibility for his belongings?

Fine- and gross-motor skills are also important. Does your child use drawing or writing tools with control and intention?

Can he copy a straight line, circle, and triangle? When drawing himself, does his picture have a head, body, arms, and legs? In terms of gross-motor skills, look at how well your child catches and bounces a ball. Is he able to hop on one foot, jump, and run in a straight line?

It can be difficult for parents to objectively assess their own child’s readiness for kindergarten. So, seek the opinion of skilled educators, childcare providers, or adults who know your child well. Meld their assessment with your own so that you can make an informed determination as to whether your child is “ready or not” to begin kindergarten.

Are you considering private education for your child entering kindergarten through eighth grade? The first ten parents to phone The Dorris-Eaton School (925.930.9000) and mention this article will have the $250 evaluation fee waived.

DANVILLE LIVING 23

Expert Contributor

Get Cash from Your Home and Put Your Equity to Work for You

By Lynn Eskew, NMLS 310381 and Kelly Stewart Allen, NMLS 261078 Diversified Capital Funding, NMLS 1850

I

f you’re considering a cash out refinance to cover the cost of home improvements, credit card debt, or unexpected medical expenses, at Diversified Capital Funding, we are here to help.

What is home equity? Equity is your ownership in your home, or the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on your mortgage.

You can build and increase the equity in your home in the following ways: •

The appreciation of your home’s value over time

•

Renovations or improvements made that increase the value

•

Cash provided for the original down payment (depending on value and market conditions)

•

Additional payments made toward the principal balance of the mortgage

What can a cash out refinance be used for? Anything you want.

Make improvements to your home, put money down on a second home or investment property, pay for school, take a vacation, purchase an automobile, fund your retirement … it is your cash, and you can do what you like with it!

A cash out loan with a low interest rate may be a better solution than high-interest credit cards if you have unexpected medical bills, unforeseen expenses, or surprise improvements that need to be made on your home.

How much cash can you get from your home? We can show you how much your monthly payments would be with a new loan or additional home equity line of credit.

Wondering about your options? We can go over all your refinance options to help you discover solutions that might work for you and your cash needs.

For more information, contact Lynn Eskew, NMLS 310381 at 925-899-0777, Lynn@divcap.net or Kelly Stewart Allen, NMLS 261078 at 925-457-1738 kelly@divcap.net

24

JANUARY 2019

Expert Contributor

A Sincere Thank You to the Residents of Danville

By Jon Lubrano, President, Atlantis Pools Inc.

I

have been lucky enough to serve the Danville community for 30 years, and I wanted to take this time to say thank you and Happy New Year. It has truly been one of the highlights of my life to work in such a special place. Life can get hectic and busy, and we can let too much time pass without stopping to show gratitude and appreciation. So that’s what I would like to dedicate this month’s article to.

When I started Atlantis Pools 30 years ago, I had no staff. It was just me and a strong desire to help people with a quality business they could rely on. Since that time, I have always strived to be the best for our customers. No matter how much technology changes the way we do business, nothing will ever replace outstanding customer service. Happy customers are our goal, and we try our best to accomplish it every day. For all who read this, thank you for supporting us over the years, it has been a pleasure to serve you for more than three decades.

I also want to thank Danville Living Magazine. Being a part of this wonderful publication has changed the way I see my business.

Danville Living is run by good, local people who pour their heart and soul into making this a great local magazine. Thank you to Jo Peek for starting such a high-quality magazine in our community and to Eve Marie Shahoian for all your monthly articles and content.

Please don’t hesitate to call us for all your pool needs and we will do our best to serve you well.

Thank you Danville!

! u o y k n a h T

January 27, 2019

DANVILLE LIVING 25

Expert Contributor

Ring in the New Year with a New Look!

By Steve Padis, Steve Padis Jewelry, Resident since 1989

Happy New Year from our family to yours!

H

ave you been thinking about resetting your diamond engagement ring into a new mounting? This is the perfect time to kick off the New Year by re-doing the ring you wear and enjoy daily. Resetting your diamond is a great way to get a whole new look. Whether you have a pear-shape, marquise or a classic round brilliant diamond, we at Padis can show you the hottest new styles that you will be sure to love.

your life. Our team at Padis Jewelry is happy to assist you in any way. Don’t hesitate to visit us at the store, give us a call or shoot us an email!

Concierge@padisjewelry.com

There are endless reasons as to why you would want to re-set your center diamond into a new mounting. Tired of your old setting, not happy with the quality of the ring, was not a design you truly wanted, or fell head over heels with a design you saw on Padis Jewelry’s Instagram account? When updating a ring or remounting your center diamond, there is always the question: well what can I do with my old mounting (setting)?! There are a number of different options, some naturally more cost-effective than others.

The first option is to keep it! Some of us like to plan ahead and think in terms of taking care of those we love, so keeping your old mounting to make a gift for a loved one, or helping your soon to be son-in-law marry your daughter, is one sentimental option.

You can set a complimentary cubic zirconia in it and keep it as a travel ring for vacations.

The next option is to have it set with a colored gemstone.

Sapphires, emeralds, and amethysts can turn your old mounting into a beautiful, colored-stone ring. This will allow you to keep your ring which may hold sentimental value and wear it as an alternative to your new engagement ring.

www.musicinmotionschool.com Member of Music Teachers Assocation of Calif. Contra Costa Performing Arts.

Graduate of Holy Names University Special classes for piano and violin!

CALL (925) 326-6467

Remember, no matter the shape of your diamond, it can be remounted into a beautiful new setting. It can be difficult to let go of something with so much personal value attached to it, but Padis Jewelry can help guide you toward the best option for what to do with your piece, and make sure you are well educated in all the different options.

Still love your ring the way it is? Stop by for a complimentary cleaning service. You’d be surprised at what it can do!

Whatever you choose, your rings should be always reflection of your love and spark memories of the moments shared throughout 26

JANUARY 2019

Consumer Protection Since 1934

Best Fine Jewelry

â&#x201E;¢

The San Francisco Jewelry Center 101 Utah Street, Suite 201 San Francisco, CA 415-626-8288

The Padis Designer Galleria at the Gift Center 888 Brannan Street, Suite 128 San Francisco, CA 415-861-5388

The Gift Center 888 Brannan Street, Suite 165 San Francisco, CA 415-861-2325

ASK ABOUT OUR BLACKHAWK JEWELRY CONCIERGE SERVICE | 415-626-8288

Padis Romance St. Helena 1269 Main Street Saint Helena, CA 707-963-2288

VISIT OUR WEBSITE | WWW.PADISGEMS.COM

DANVILLE LIVING 27

Danville 1393

LIVING

28

JANUARY 2019