Mailed Directly to West Danville Residents and Published Online
Danville LIVING CA
MEET THE
George Family: Connected Through it All COVER PHOTO:
by Kim Lind Photography
JUNE 2020
2
JUNE 2020
Danville LIVING CA
Publication Team Publisher:
Jo Peek, Danville Resident since 2014 Content Coordinator: Alexandra Sullivan, Resident since 2017 Designer: Emily Lund Alexandra Sullivan
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: 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. © 2020 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
Hi neighbors! I’ve had a few similar questions asked recently by our neighbors so I thought that I would take the time to share the answers with the community. As the founding publisher of Danville Living CA, I personally meet with every single owner of each business to approve them as a sponsor, right now we meet virtually. The sponsors in our magazine are selected in the area of reputation, customer service and expertise in the category of business. Not every business is able to be guaranteed in our magazine just because they are in business!! I hope that you find Danville Living CA as a protection filter for you, the consumer. Furthermore, these sponsors make our community magazine possible - there are no paid subscriptions, it is delivered free to you each month! While you are free to deal with any business, inside or outside of this magazine, these businesses made a decision to be a part of our community. They want your patronage. Without our sponsors’ generosity, our community magazine would not exist, so give them a chance and let them earn your business! Thanks,
Jo Peek
Founding Publisher of Danville Living
DANVILLE LIVING CA 3
Expert Contributors To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com. 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 cosmetic treatments in the Blackhawk area for more than 15 years. Now they are thrilled to introduce the Blackhawk Migraine Clinic led by migraine specialist, Alicia Choquette. Alicia brings over 5 years of migraine expertise to the Blackhawk Migraine Clinic and looks forward to helping patients live a better quality of life migraine free.
Education St. Isidore School (925) 837-2977 www.stisidore.org info@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.
Home Maintenance
AAA House manager is your partner in home maintenance. Trusted and reliable House Managers tackle your to-do list and help you create a plan to get ahead of future maintenance needs, all to keep you home running smoothly. Whether you have a leaky faucet, smart home tech to install, or need your gutters cleaned, AAA House Manager works for your home so your home can work for you.
Interior Design
Drawing inspiration from her clients, travels, and architecture, designer Casey Howard brings a refined, eclectic eye to each of her projects. At Casey Howard Designs, founded in 2012, the design team specializes in Full-Service Residential Interior Design, including new construction, small and large-scale renovations as well as furnishings and interior styling. With a high level of project management expertise, CHD simplifies the design process to ensure that your experience is enjoyable and effortless.
AAA San Ramon 925-314-2600 www.aaa.com/housemanager
Casey Howard Designs, Inc. Casey Howard (925) 725-4223 Info@caseyhowarddesigns.com caseyhowarddesigns.com
FREE DEMO PLUS 20% OFF YOUR NEXT PROJECT!
Quality Pavers at Affordable Prices
DRIVEWAYS WALKWAYS PATIOS STAIRS RETAINING WALLS LANDSCAPING POOL DECKS
833.677.2837 mrpavers.com
4
CA Lic. #937016
JUNE 2020
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.
Real Estate
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.
Wealth Management
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.
Steve Padis Steve Padis Jewelry info@padisjewelry.com www.padisjewelry.com
Janice Jordan Broker/Associate at Compass janice.jordan@compass.com 925-580-7482
Jim Carbonell Matt Forrey The Carbonell Forrey Wealth Management Group 925-279-1701 carbonellforreywmg@rbc.com www.rbcwmfa.com/carbonellforreywmg/
Find us online DanvilleLivingCA www.DanvilleLivingCA.com
Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
DANVILLE LIVING CA 5
Resident Feature
Meet the
George Family: Connected Through it All By Alexandra Sullivan, Resident since 2017
“L
ife has not turned out the way we imagined, I guess it rarely does. We hope that our very imperfect life inspires other people to embrace who they are, perfectly flawed.” Jamie and Alison George met their last semester of college at the University of Arizona. A spot that was out of state but still close enough to home, Sonoma and Fresno, respectively. Jamie earned his degree in Business/Communication, and Alison received hers in Communication/Psychology. After graduation, they independently moved to San Francisco where they reconnected at a roof-top party and steadily grew their collegiate friendship into a loving partnership. “In 2003 we had a breathtaking wedding in San Francisco’s historic Golden Gate Chapel celebrated with friends and family.” After a few honeymoon years in San Francisco, the Georges moved to San Ramon so they could be closer to work. There they celebrated just about every major moment a married couple could have: “Many milestones took place in this home, my husband’s first dog, the birth of our son, birth of daughter, the diagnosis of my breast cancer, the diagnosis of our daughter’s special needs. All of which defined us.” Knowing that they wanted to find a community to grow with, and a neighborhood that was within walking distance to life’s necessities - coffee, wine and nature - Alison and Jamie fell in love with the west side of Danville. Currently Jamie is a District Manager at Pure Storage and Alison is the Director of Global Partner Ecosystem at SAP. They’ve both been very driven in their technology-focused careers and have enjoyed being able to support one another’s goals. With their jobs being so technical and data driven, Alison says, “we also try to work the left side of our brains - for me it’s design - I love to decorate. For Jamie, it’s golf and grilling.” These days the Georges are kept busy with their three children; Trevor (14), Stella (11), and Mollie (4). “Our hobbies today focus around kids. Weekends scuba diving have turned into a swim team (Go DEL); battles on the tennis court have turned into family pickle ball, and late evenings exploring San Francisco have turned into camping in our backyard.” Alison and Jamie strive to pass on the same desire to volunteer and support others that their parents instilled in them. As a family they have been involved in the Epilepsy Foundation of Northern California, Children’s Guild
of Danville/Alamo, Habitat for Humanity, CPC’s annual “Adopt a Family”, and others. Aiming to entertain everyone at home comes plum with challenges; different ages, different interests, different stages of life. Luckily, the three George kids have their passions and enjoy sharing them with the family. Trevor plays soccer with Mustang, and Stella loves to dance at San Ramon Valley Dance Academy: her favorite instructor is Tori, who teaches the Saturday Special Needs class. During this extra time at home, Trevor has been working on his soccer skills, and Stella is expressing herself by making fun dance videos on her iPad. Four-year old Mollie is so glad to have her big siblings around these days. She has been focused on learning to ride her bike so she can ride around the neighborhood. For the last eight years the George’s have lived in downtown Danville. Their house, just a couple blocks away from Montair Elementary, was a major fixer upper - “I mean, it had a metal smoking room attached to the back of it,” Alison remembers. “Instantly, we knew how lucky we were to find this neighborhood. During our first year we had a neighbor bring us a maple tree for our bare backyard, another vegetables from his garden, and another ran over to offer help when we really needed it. Our kids have watched first hand the help from our neighbors and in return our extended hand to them.” This bustling neighborhood was a pleasant surprise to Jamie and Alison. When they prepared to move to Danville, they wondered if they would have neighbors going through the same stages of life
6
JUNE 2020
to this outgoing family!
Stella with her bunny pancakes, yum!
Hey there Cannon!
Trevor with his Champion trophy!
they were, that concern quickly disappeared. “We are involved in progressive dinner parties, seasonal bbq’s and weekend fun with neighbors. We belong to supper clubs, bunco, book and wine clubs within the community. We live on a street where we can see friends riding, walking and running by. It’s energizing.” Although the parade that welcomed them to Danville on their move-in day was technically for the 4th of July, it was still an open-armed invitation
Rounding out the George family are Ginger the hamster, O’Malley the bunny, and Cannon the French bulldog. Cannon earned his name thanks to his bowling ball-like figure, but seeing as how that doesn’t quite roll off the tongue, the family agreed Mollie loves to ride her bike on Cannon. O’Malley is a new adoptee, who the kids took in after a neighbor needed to move. Like all parents, the Georges know that “caring for animals teaches ... we nag them about the responsibility that comes with a pet and hopefully they learn something.” Ah yes, the parenting common-ground. For the George family, they have been soaking up every bit of quality time that this shelter-in-place order has given them. They continue to have the ups and downs of every family, and use the expression “hug it out” often enough. Their other most-used phrase is “can’t is not an option” - an idiom that is clearly demonstrated in their hard work and passionate life.
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.
DANVILLE LIVING CA 7
Pet Adoption Corner
Returning to the Office Soon? Prepare Your Pet Now. By Elena Bicker, Executive Director Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation
M
any of us have been working from home for two months under the shelter-in-place mandate, but as we prepare to return to the office, we must also prepare our companion animals. Your pet has grown accustomed to having you home – it’s part of their new routine. Adjusting to your sudden absence could cause stress and undesirable behaviors. Adding daily training into your pet’s routine now, will help them tremendously in the weeks and months to come as shelter-in-place orders are lifted. Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation recommends training your pet to get accustomed to spending time by themselves with the goals of 1) proving to your pet that they are safe, and 2) showing them that alone time can be fun! With proper management and training, separation anxiety can be avoided. Here are several suggestions for you to start implementing now:
Low-Key Departures and Arrivals During the 10 to 15 minutes before you leave the house or when you arrive home, strive for a calm, neutral atmosphere. Avoid hugging, kissing, petting, or high energy play. We know it’s very hard, but it is best to simply ignore your pet for 10 to 15 minutes.
Long-Lasting Treats & Food Games Experiment with long-lasting treats and creative feeding methods for your pet’s meals. You’ll want to test these out before you actually leave your pet home alone with them. If your dog or cat doesn’t eat the food when you’re around, they likely won’t eat it when left alone. When you find a treat your pet especially loves, only give it to them before departing the home. This will keep the treat extra special. Some ideas include: food dispensing toys, food puzzles, interactive feeding mats (like snuffle mats), and hiding kibble/treats in cardboard or paper products that your pet can tear apart (like cereal boxes, paper towel rolls, egg cartons, or paper bags)
Practice Alone Time Practicing being alone is important for all pets. Identify a comfortable, safe area for your pet to be alone. This might be in a room, an area separated by a baby gate, or in a dog crate (if crate trained). At least once a day, set your pet up with a long-lasting treat, some of their favorite toys, a comfy bed, and water. Start by only leaving them alone for short periods of time (even just for a few minutes). You can vary between leaving them completely alone and sitting nearby while not engaging. Vary the length of absences so it’s not predictable (pets can get very good at keeping time!). For more pet care tips and resources, visit Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation’s website at www.arflife.org.
8
JUNE 2020
Real Estate Listings in West Danville Addresses in Bold are Seller’s/Buyer’s represented by Ron and Joe Gatti | 5/10/20
Active Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths
Active Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths
Garden Creek Pl River Rock Ln River Rock Ln River Rock Ln El Dorado Ave Meadowside Pl Ocho Rios Dr
$599,000 $950,000 $1,029,000 $1,095,000 $1,248,000 $1,439,000 $1,495,000
Pending Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths
La Gonda Way Railroad Ave Verona Ave Entrada Mesa 440 Montcrest Pl Podva Place Montair Dr
Pending Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths
Hartley Dr Rubicon Cir Elworthy Ranch Dr River Rock Ln
$595,000 $675,000 $899,000 $999,950
Cambra Ct $1,499,000 2457 3 Mariposa Ct $1,698,000 1963 3 Cathy Lane $1,899,000 3751 5 Camino Amigo $2,295,000 3469 5
1090 1375 1492 1375 1566 3345 2282
2 2 3 3 3 5 5
1207 1391 1752 1492
2 2 3 3
1 2 2 2 2 4 2
2 2 2 2
Sold Listings Street List Price Sold Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths Ilo Ln Westfield Cir Danville Oak Pl
$485,000 $705,000 $850,000
$485,000 $705,000 $850,000
1012 1499 1511
2 2 3
1 2 2
$1,498,000 $1,599,000 $1,795,000 $1,799,000 $2,199,000 $2,398,000 $2,699,000
3067 1383 2609 2371 3133 3768 4193
4 2 4 4 4 4 5
3 2 3 2 2 3 3
2 2 4 4
Sold Listings Street List Price Sold Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths Kuss Road $1,399,000 $1,325,000 Remington Loop $1,489,000 $1,581,000
2676 2385
3 4
3 2
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.
Just Listed in Westside Danville! As Danville natives, we know Danville and the San Ramon Valley 440 Montcrest Place, Westside Danville 4 Beds | 2 Full Baths + 2 Partial Baths | 3,133 Sq Ft 1.6 Estate Acre Lot | $2,199,000 Panoramic views of Mt. Diablo. Best luxury value in Westside Danville!
During this uncertain time, you need proven real estate professionals who you can always trust. Ron & Joe Gatti are here to help guide you through this journey.
Ron Gatti Broker Associate 925.596.1972 gattirealestate@gmail.com DRE 00623995
Joe Gatti Broker Associate 925.588.3590 gattirealestate@gmail.com DRE 01914487
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.
Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
DANVILLE LIVING CA 9
Expert Contributor
Summertime Entertaining: How to Enhance your Outdoor Space By Casey Howard, Casey Howard Designs Photo courtesy of Margot Hartford
A
s we’ve all had to adjust to our new normal at home, I’ve found that our outdoor space has become more meaningful than ever. I believe as we move through the different phases of reopening and reengaging with our community, our backyards and outdoor spaces will be where friends and family gather during the summer months. Personally, I’m looking forward to warm summer nights poolside with the family, hosting outdoor barbecues, and backyard parties with friends! With that in mind, I wanted to share some ideas that will help you create a unique outdoor atmosphere at home. Our fire pit has become the focal point of our evenings outside. It’s a great place to chat and stay cozy with family, but also has the added benefit of being the perfect place to roast s’mores after a long day of swimming in the pool! There are so many options out there when designing a fire pit, and I love how you can tailor it to fit your space, like this long linear design we created.
No outdoor space is complete without seating for you and your guests. Your outdoor living space should feel comfortable and inviting. The plush outdoor sofa in our design is accented with bright and playful pillows that were custom made to reflect our client’s personality. It’s important to create different areas of interaction where guests can converse while sipping their summertime cocktails! Finally, stylish serving boards are an absolute must. I believe your serveware is an extension of your aesthetic and should be as fun as what’s on your menu. I always try to offer up my favorite hors ‘d’oeuvres and small bites with some flair! While sheltering in place I’ve gained a new appreciation for spending time outside and find the whole family in the backyard more than ever! Whether you have a tiny patio or a spacious yard, I’m excited by the opportunity for all of us to push our creative boundaries when designing our outdoor spaces!
BLACKHAWK PLASTIC SURGERY & MEDSPA
• Surgical and Non-Surgical Procedures • Accredited Private Surgery Center • Call for your Free Consultation
925.736.5757 3600 Blackhawk Plaza Circle Danville, California 94506 BlackhawkPlasticSurgery.com
10
JUNE 2020
Acts of Kindness
Making Masks to Pass the Time By Alex P.
H
ello, my name is Alex. I live in Danville and I am in 8th grade at Stone Valley Middle School. In March when school was shut down because of the coronavirus [COVID-19], I started making masks for the community because I thought it would help people be safe. I had nothing but time on my hands since my sports were also cancelled. I originally got the idea from my mom. She proposed the idea to me because she knew that I had the supplies and the skill to do it. I started by making masks just for my family to make sure I could do it. My mom shared pictures of the masks that I made on Facebook and Instagram and suddenly I had orders from local families pilling up. I started making around 5-10 masks a day. It takes me a while to make them since it’s a one-woman job. I have a little table set up in my house with my sewing machine and supplies
where I make the masks every day. I tell people that it is not necessary to pay me for the masks, but donations are welcome. I think helping people is more important than the money. So far, I have made around 120 masks for people in this community and I am very glad that I am able to help. I am still trying to get the sizing just right on the masks, as they do shrink a little in the wash since that fabric is 100% cotton. I do run into some issues from time to time, like when my sewing needle breaks or when I accidentally cut the fabric or elastic too small, but these problems are all fixable. I’m just glad that I am able to help the community, so I’ll continue making these masks for people in need of them. I am also going to start donating masks to businesses that are in need of them. I already donated masks to Mangia Mi!
DANVILLE LIVING CA 11
Health & Fitness
Get Your Body Moving! By Jenn Soine, Star Cycle Danville, Resident since 2008
I
have always believed that fitness is therapy. Moving your body every day, based on what works best for you, can improve you health in mind and body. The word “fitness” or “exercise” can feel overwhelming or stressful and can be the first item delayed on your list of things to do during the day. Moving your body every day has many benefits including helping combat depression and anxiety, improving your body’s immune system, building bone strength, and improved mental acuity. Moving our bodies doesn’t have to be time consuming, can be easily done from home and FREE. Daily walking, hiking, biking and running are ways to enjoy nature. Finding a fitness community and format that works for you is another healthy option. During this time there are many boutique fitness studios, trainers and gyms that offer online classes for free daily. But you don’t need
gym equipment or a special area in your home to do an effective workout. One of my favorite, easy ways to sweat at home with just your body weight is the 7 min workout. Developed by two exercise scientists, Chris Jordan and Brett Klika, this 7 minute sweat can be done with the whole family, requires only your body weight and will help boost your mood and physical health.
7 Minute Workout (Download the 7 min workout app for more detail and tracking) Finding your community to help support your fitness journey can be life changing for your mind and body. Our Bay Area fitness community is here to support you during this time and can’t wait to sweat with you in person soon! In the meantime, stay healthy, sweat everyday and don’t forget to BREATHE.
12
JUNE 2020
Expert Contributor
Is It Time to Review Your IRA Estate Planning Strategies? By Matt Forrey, SVP Financial Advisor, RBC Wealth Management, Resident since 2009 and James Carbonell, SVP Financial Advisor, RBC Wealth Management, Resident since 2004
T
he Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act, passed in December, 2019 as part of a larger federal spending package, included a provision that warrants special attention for those who own high-value IRAs. Specifically, the “stretch” IRA provision, which permitted non-spouse beneficiaries who inherited IRAs to spread distributions over their lifetimes, has been substantially restricted. Under the old rules, a non-spouse beneficiary who inherited IRA assets was required to begin minimum distributions within a certain time frame, generally, by no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the IRA owner died, and annual distributions could be calculated based on the beneficiary’s life expectancy. This allowed the individual to spread out taxable distributions over his or her lifetime and helped minimize the annual tax burden.
The Carbonell Forrey Wealth Management Group 1331 North California Boulevard, Suite 650 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 (925) 279-1701 us.rbcwealthmanagement.com/carbonellforreywmg
Investment and insurance products: • Not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency • Not a deposit of, or guaranteed by, the bank or an affiliate of the bank • May lose value © 2020 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. All rights reserved. 20-WC-02096 (05/20) Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
As of January 2020, most non-spouse beneficiaries are now required to completely liquidate the inherited IRA assets within 10 years following the year of death. This shorter distribution period could result in unanticipated and potentially excessive tax bills, especially if the IRA was larger in size. Exceptions include a spouse, a “disabled” individual, a “chronically ill” individual, a beneficiary who is not greater than ten years younger than the IRA owner, and a minor child until they attain age of majority, which may vary depending upon the state. Many individuals with high-value IRAs have used what’s known as “look-through” or “see-through” trusts, which often times operate as “conduit” trusts, to manage the distribution of inherited IRA assets. These trusts helped protect the assets from creditors and ensured that beneficiaries didn’t spend down their inheritance too quickly. Under the new rules, “look-through” or “see-through” trusts are now subject to the same 10-year liquidation requirements, rendering null and void some of the reasons they were originally established, with the exception of a “special needs” trust benefiting either a “disabled” individual or a “chronically ill” individual, as per the current provisions of the SECURE Act, and pending any additional guidance or technical corrections from the IRS/Department of Treasury, which may at some point expand this exception to include other classes of “eligible” designated beneficiaries who may have been named as the beneficiary of a trust. So, what should IRA owners consider doing now? To start, they should review their beneficiary designations with their financial or tax professional and consider how the new rules may affect inheritances and taxes. They then can consider a number of different strategies including converting Traditional IRAs to Roth IRA’s, establishing charitable remainder trusts, or “accumulation” trusts (as opposed to “conduit” trusts), or use current distributions from their IRA’s to purchase life insurance, of which the death benefit is not subject to the same distribution rules as IRA’s. Feel free to call us for a complimentary review or with any questions. We can be reached directly at 925-279-1701 or by email at carbonellforreywmg@rbc.com. Investment and insurance products: • Not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency • Not a deposit of, or guaranteed by, the bank or an affiliate of the bank • May lose value
© 2020 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. All rights reserved. DANVILLE LIVING CA 13
Expert Contributor
Mindfulness Matters – The Practice of Mindfulness in Schools By Maria Ward, Principal, St. Isidore School
M
any of us have noticed a sudden increase in media attention around something called mindfulness. Mindfulness, described by the Oxford Dictionary as “a mental state achieved by focusing one’s awareness on the present moment,” has become something of a buzzword. It is celebrated greatly on the Internet, on social media platforms, and amongst celebrities. Mindfulness has recently trickled into education, too, and enthusiasm for the practice can be found in classrooms across the globe. Schools that have implemented the practice have seen increased self-awareness and empathy amongst their students. They have also experienced other benefits such as increased attention, improved awareness, and self-regulation. It has provided a much-needed sense of optimism to our campuses. Basically, we are seeing happier kids, and who wouldn’t want that!
What does mindfulness in the classroom look like? Building a classroom that encourages mindfulness starts with providing an environment in which our students can learn, grow, and breathe. Incorporating breathwork into the morning, during transitions, and before taking a big test helps to steady the nervous system, helping students to focus better. Teachers are also providing students with opportunities to stretch, listen to relaxing music, practice yoga, and meditate. These “brain breaks” help to relieve built-up stress and anxiety. Amy Saltzman, M.D., Director of the Association for Mindfulness, explains the concept thus: “Mindfulness is a powerful tool that supports children in calming themselves, focusing their attention, and interacting effectively with others, all critical skills for functioning well in school and in life.” Next time you or your child is overwhelmed or stressed, take time to slow down, observe how your body is reacting, and, most importantly, breathe. 14
JUNE 2020
San Ramon Valley High School
Top Summer Spots to Make Lasting Memories with Friends By Shelby Falahat, Junior Reporter, SRVHS
S
ummer has finally arrived. After a unique school year consisting of online remote learning, the class of 2021 has made their way to the moment they have been waiting for, their senior year of High School!!! The class of 2020 closed a chapter of their lives, and are awaiting new life experiences and adventures. This summer, SRVHS Seniors, now freshmen in college, will be experiencing their final “Danville Summer ‘’ before parting ways in the fall. The class of 2020 plans to spend the summer enjoying the scenic locations of Danville, as well as embracing the sites neighboring cities have to offer. One of the most breathtaking spots we will take advantage of this summer is Mount Diablo State Park, specifically Rock City. Nothing beats waking up early and hiking in the mountains with friends. Mount Diablo is surrounded by rolling hills and vistas, making it the perfect spot for seniors to relax and enjoy the sun. Students enjoy picnicking on scenic spots alongside the road, especially during sunset hours. On a beautiful day, Rock City is a place where SRV students gather to appreciate the outdoors and bond with one another. Another popular spot is Grizzly Peak, in the Berkeley Hills. This spot, located off of Fish Ranch Road, is known for its view of the San Francisco Bay. We’ll make the thirty-minute trip hoping to see the Golden Gate Bridge. Depending on the day, Grizzly Peak may be cloudy, resulting in a much less vibrant sunset. But it’s worth it on a clear day, the sky shifts colors and the view of the Bay is jaw dropping. Common activities to partake in at Grizzly Peak are taking pictures of the view and taking in the scenery. Personally, my friends and I head to Grizzly Peak to enjoy the sunset, but we never miss having dinner at our favorite Vietnamese Restaurant, Kim’s Cafe. This authentic Vietnamese food with a charming, secluded environment has earned a spot in our hearts. We are big fans of Grizzly Peak, but Thai Iced Tea and authentic Asian cuisine initiates the urge to make our way down to Berkeley. On any given summer afternoon, you can find plenty of students getting a workout in at Little Yosemite. This Alameda County park is extremely popular due to the small waterfalls and unique boulders. Although the waterfalls are quite crowded during the summer, it’s the perfect spot to relax and have meaningful conversations with friends. Little Yosemite has a very distinct atmosphere, making it very appealing to teens. After a short hike to the “Yosemite Falls,” we love to spend hours enjoying the view and floating in the water. I’ve shared countless special memories with friends at Little Yosemite, and will definitely continue to do so in the upcoming summer. Mount Diablo State Park, Grizzly Peak, and Little Yosemite are all scenic locations that have a special place in SRV seniors’ hearts. As our seniors experience their final “Danville Summer” before heading into the waiting world, they’ll hopefully appreciate the natural views, beautiful memories, and plenty of jubilant laughter.
A gorgeous Grizzly Peak sunset
Shelby Falahat is a graduating senior at San Ramon Valley High School. She loves writing as a tool to express herself as well as learn about the world around her. She also has a passion for working with children. Recently, Shelby has had the opportunity to work at Kumon, which has allowed her to teach young students math and reading. In addition, she loves to travel with her family across the globe. DANVILLE LIVING CA 15
Congratulations Class of 2020
Ryan Bender, SRVHS. Plans for fall: UCSB
Jack Grant, SRCVHS. Plans for fall: University of Arizona
CJ Hegney, SRVHS. Plans for fall: Cuesta College
Jonah Alvira, SRVHS. Plans for fall: University of Oregon
Daniel Corbett, SRVHS. Plans for fall: Kelley School of Business at Indiana University
Brady Bowman, SRVHS. Plans for fall: Cal Poly
Samantha Snow, SRVHS. Plans for fall: University of Puget Sound
16
Lindsay Clark, SRVHS. Plans for fall: Chico State
JUNE 2020
Share Your 2020 Graduation Stories With Us! We would love to hear how graduating seniors celebrated graduation in their own unique ways. Please email us at asullivan@bestversionmedia. com with your stories and photos by June 10th!
Imagine a place where… • Style, Sophistication & Speed
Reign Supreme • An Imperial Past – Lives & Breathes • Destinies Collide & New Nations are Born • Culture & Folklore are Carved into History • Rivals Battle & Triumph – Only the Fittest Survive…
This is Blackhawk Museum...
Experience World of Nature Coming Soon in 2020
3700 Blackhawk Plaza Cir, Danville, CA www.blackhawkmuseum.org • 925-736-2277 Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
DANVILLE LIVING CA 17
Kid Corner
Time For Art! Submitted by parents of the west side
Ethan D. shows off his very own BB2 droid, complete with a fun hat!
Vasu A., a student at SRVHS, has focused on his digital art since being home for the remainder of the school year. See more of his pieces on his instagram page - @raghav_vasu
18
JUNE 2020
Acts of Kindness
Supporting Essential Personnel with Breakfast Burritos By Shawn Torrey, Elegance at Dublin
W
ith widespread reports of COVID-19 making headlines around the country, Elegance at Dublin is supporting those who are responding to the pandemic. The brand-new senior living community slated to open in Fall 2020, is doing its part to aid essential personnel in the Bay Area by providing them with breakfast burritos. As the Director of Sales & Marketing, Christine Hernandez knows the importance of supporting those on the frontline. “First responders and healthcare providers are working longer and harder to ensure that those in the Bay Area stay safe and healthy. The team and I wanted to provide something easy that they can eat while they’re either working or have a few minutes to spare.” The team at Elegance at Dublin realized that there was a need for meal support as they were building relationships with other businesses in the Bay Area. After hearing stories about essential personnel skipping meals to continue working, they made it their mission to give meals for those on the frontline. Partnering with Azteca Taqueria, a Dublin based Mexican restaurant, the Elegance team delivered breakfast burritos to several healthcare
Christine Hernandez and Kim De Sousa picking up breakfast burritos from Taqueria Burrito in Dublin, California
organizations, rehab facilities and fire stations. Some include the John Muir Health in Pleasanton, The Vintage Skill Nursing and Rehab and Alameda County Fire Station 16. So far, Elegance at Dublin has delivered 100-plus burritos. Kimberly De Sousa, a Director of Sales & Marketing at Elegance at Dublin, never expected to deliver so many burritos. “It was never our goal to deliver so many burritos; we just saw a huge need and we wanted to help. We can’t thank these individuals enough for all that they’re doing, and we will continue to support essential personnel any way that we can.” For Elegance at Dublin, supporting essential personnel is more than just doing a good deed. To Hernandez, De Sousa and the rest of the team, it’s the opportunity to give back to the Bay Area community that has fully embraced them. For more information or to learn more about Elegance at Dublin, visit EleganceAtDublin.com.
Christine Hernandez and Kim De Sousa delivering breakfast to the John Muir Health in Pleasanton, California
DANVILLE LIVING CA 19
In Our Own Backyard
Home is Where the Zoo is ... By Nancy Clark, Resident since 1986 and Linda Clark
Rosebud and Linda learning to eat circa 1952
www.oaklandzoo.org/go-behind-the-scenes), started during the pandemic to connect the Zoo with virtual visitors, is a great way to learn about many of our animals and the unique care that we provide.)
Zoo keepers like Jessica Real take great care of their charges
I
f you feel as though your home has turned into a complete zoo during the COVID-19 pandemic, you are not alone. As the “head keeper” you are responsible for making sure everyone is safe and healthy, preparing meals, creating enrichment activities, teaching lessons, and daily cleaning of the “habitats.”
Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic is now threatening the forever homes of these animals. As a primarily admissions-driven organization, the Zoo’s closure on March 17 for the shelter-inplace mandate created an abrupt and devastating end to most of our revenues – and, consequently, to the hundreds of thousands of dollars the Zoo donates annually to conservation efforts globally. With only a few months of operating reserves, we prioritized the essential staff
Well, that is exactly what the keepers and staff are doing every day at the Oakland Zoo for more than 750 animals. We understand that firsthand because we literally were raised in the Oakland Zoo. Our great grandfather, Henry Snow, and grandfather, Sidney Snow, started the Zoo in 1922. Deeply concerned about endangered animals, they worked to protect wildlife and to educate the public about the plight of animals.
Henry and Sidney’s legacy has evolved beyond their wildest dreams. Zoos have evolved greatly over the years, and Oakland Zoo has become a trailblazer in conservation, animal welfare and education. We couldn’t be more proud of that. With more than 30 conservation partners around the globe, the Zoo works internationally to prevent poaching, to protect wildlife and habitats, and to advocate for conservation legislation. Last year, nearly one million people visited the Oakland Zoo each year to learn about wildlife, conservation, and what they can do to help. Further, the Zoo is recognized worldwide for its rescue and animal care practices and its expert veterinary services. (The “Behind the Scenes” interactive program (https://
Jill Fusari
YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL 16 years of local real estate experience Over 85% of her business is repeat and referral In depth local market knowledge and pricing expertise Creates custom marketing campaigns for each client Creates custom hyper targeted digital advertising campaigns Manages whole process from pre market prep to post closing. Works collaboratively with fellow agents to serve her clients’ best interests
Jill.Fusari@TheAgencyRE.com 925.817.7818 | LIC # 01775608
20
L U X U RY R E A L E STAT E AT T H E AG E N CY R E .C O M
Some of you may remember the iconic animals of the old zoo: Effie the Elephant. Our grandfather, Sidney, became her “mother.” He slept in her stall, made sure she was safe, prepared her meals, took her on walks around the park, and cared for her 24/7. There is nothing more beautiful, loving, or majestic as an elephant. Or Rosebud the Chimpanzee, who mischievously ran up a tree and would not come down until 2-year old Linda was summoned to coax her down. While those days are long gone, the new days at the zoo are truly amazing.
JUNE 2020
This mountain lion cub was rescued in April
and services needed to maintain our high standard of care for every animal at Oakland Zoo. As a result of the drastic change in revenue and necessary curbing of expenses, at the end of March we made the heart wrenching decision to implement staff reductions, laying off our part-time and seasonal workers. While we write this article, we don’t know when the Zoo will be allowed to reopen. Regardless, we won’t open until it is safe for our animals, staff, and visitors. In the meantime, just like your “home zoo,” the Oakland Zoo animal keepers and staff will continue to make sure everyone is safe and healthy, to prepare meals, create enrichment activities, teach lessons, and clean the habitats. To learn more about the Oakland Zoo and all that they do, please visit www.oaklandzoo.org.
Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
DANVILLE LIVING CA 21
Life in Danville
Danville:
In Isolation
By Sandra Mcmullan, Resident since 1992
L
ife is not as we know it, but this mandatory confinement is necessary. No school, no work, no church, no stores or restaurants, no library, no parks, and certainly no international travel. Even worse, no weddings, funerals, or gathering with friends and loved ones. I know the human spirit is strong and people are much more resilient than we think, so when we started seeing the images of people singing and playing instruments from balconies and driveways, rainbows in windows, and teddy bear hunts, I knew we’d pull through this pandemic just like all the other generations before us who have survived wars, famine, plague, etc. Mother Earth seems to be taking this opportunity to renew and fresh herself. The canals of Venice cleared up to the point you could see the fishes in there. The famous LA smog cleared within three days. Rivers and streams are running clear. The air is fresh. People are planting “Victory Gardens” again. Young families can use this time to bond together. Some working moms are getting their chance to be home during the weekday, probably for the first time since maternity leave, and it feels good. Our four legged friends are happy to have us hanging out. They’re used to working from home all day! People needing more socialization got creative; virtual happy hours, Zoom check–in with neighbors, and even drive-by weddings. Prior to this, loneliness is nothing new for some seniors; they live in isolation pretty much everyday, except when the family comes to visit. This crisis has people reaching out to check in on them. Neighbors are offering to shop and run errands for shut-in seniors. I hope this is something that will stay with us once we are released from quarantine.
naked baby (discreet of course) pictures to send him! His wife and son have never seen these so they should get a good laugh. Of course there are wedding pictures, birthday parties, picnics at the beach, park, camping, water skiing, Halloween, Christmas - all the events that occur in our lifetimes. Many of these people I haven’t seen or heard from in years, so I hope these memories will brighten their day. While we adapted to the new order, some things in life didn’t change. Babies were born, like my Great Niece Fiona; I can’t go see her yet but we did FaceTime, and trust me, she is adorable! People passed away, but we couldn’t attend the funerals – so they posted them online. It’s tough, but we’ll be together again soon. I’m very optimistic that once this pandemic has passed we will find our earth and spirits renewed in some unexpected ways.
Sandra Mcmullan immigrated from Northern Ireland when she was just 3 1/2 years old. She recently retired from a composite career in Workforce and Economic Development designing training programs funded by both the state of California’s Employment Training Panel (ETP) and the Federal Workforce Investment Act. Sandra loves fishing, traveling, and being an adventurous grandmother!
Across social media we have the humorists – important to keep the spirits up. Laugh and the world laughs with you – right? And then there’s the organizers- finding much needed time to clean out closets, the garage, the car, the whole entire house. The thrift stores are going to be packed once they re-open – treasure hunt!! For me, I decided to tackle four boxes of pictures spanning 40 years or more of time. Each one brings back a memory: some good, some not so good, but each adds to the sum of my life. Rather than get rid of these photographs, I decided to mail the pictures out to those in them. A fun way to keep in touch and say, “I remember you and our time together.” One little girl is about to turn 40, her dad passed a few years ago, and so I’m going to put some treasured memories in her birthday card this month. My little boy also turns 40 this month – I’ve got the classic 22
JUNE 2020
Community Fun
Vroom Vroom!
Danville’s Own Car Show Hits the Streets By Ricky Helton, Resident since 2004
For the last few weekends, Danville residents have organized their own parade, following social distancing guidelines, but still providing entertainment and joy for the community. All photos by Ricky Helton Photography - check out his FB page for more local pictures!
DANVILLE LIVING CA 23
Cooking Corner
Chicago Style Minestrone By Stephanie Seaberg, Resident since 2010
M
y husband is from Chicago, and I’m from the Bay Area. Let’s just say when it comes to food, we were raised pretty differently. He comes from “meat and potato” country: land of burgers, meatballs and Italian beef sandwiches. I, on the other hand, am always wondering if an avocado will compliment the dish I’m making. By the way, the answer is always “Yes”. Whenever I’m putting together our dinner, he usually wants to know what kind of meat we’re having. He likes his veggies, don’t get me wrong. However, beef and chicken were always his first love. I tease him often that he would make a horrible vegan. I grew up eating minestrone. It’s a hearty and thick soup, full of beans, pasta and colorful greens. Many Italian families often have a pot of minestrone sitting on the stove or in the fridge, at the ready. Serve this up in a big bowl dusted with some parmesan cheese and I’m in heaven. I could honestly have this for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and sometimes I have. My Noni has her own way of making it, my mom has hers, and I have mine. And they’re all completely different. So how do I get my husband to like minestrone?...By adding sausage! I’m putting a new spin on an old classic this summer with a soup that inspired me to take something that normally has little or no meat and blow it a little kiss from the mid-west. Hopefully, this recipe will catch on before my next trip to Chi Town.
Chicago style Minestrone Serves: 6-8 Time: 1 Hour
You will need:
• 3 Italian sausage links (Hot or mild) Remove the casing and roughly separate the sausage with your hand into chunks. • 3 strips of bacon, chopped • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped • 2 large carrots, trimmed and chopped • 3 celery ribs, chopped • 1 small zucchini, chopped • 2 large tomatoes, chopped • 6-8 cloves of garlic, minced • A splash of white wine (optional) • 3 Tbs. tomato paste (If you don’t have tomato paste, you can use use 1/2 of marinara or pizza sauce) • 1 box (or 2 cans) of chicken stock • 1 can of white beans, such as cannelloni, white navy, or even garbanzo • 1/2 cup refried beans (Shhh...secret ingredient) • 1 cup of water • 1/3 Cup of Ditalini pasta. (Small shells will work too) • 3 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach or kale • Parsley and parmesan to garnish
A recipe for both Steph and Jeff to enjoy!
In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, brown your bacon and sausage together until fully cooked. Using a slotted spoon, remove the sausage and bacon to a bowl. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot for your veggies. Add in your onions, carrots, celery, and zucchini: sauté on medium heat for 4 to 6 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften. You can add a little extra virgin olive oil if they seem too dry. Add your garlic, tomatoes and white wine and cook for one minute. (This is when your kitchen is going to start to smell amazing) Season your soup with salt and pepper, then add your chicken stock, tomato paste, white beans and refried beans. Add 1 cup of water and bring your soup to a boil then back down to a simmer. Cover it and let it simmer for 20 minutes on low. After 20 minutes, remove the lid and add your pasta, spinach, sausage and bacon. (I would recommend adding an extra pinch of salt here because pasta likes to soak up salt). Stir your soup well and put the lid back on to simmer for 20 more minutes. Serve your soup with lots of parmesan cheese and garlic bread. Your leftovers will thicken up in the fridge. If you want to thin it out, just add a little more stock when you reheat it.
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.
24
JUNE 2020
Tee Time
Tee it Up For Mother’s Day By Lynne Harrosh, Resident since 2008 Mother’s Day 2019. Teaching my kids to love golf, too. Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay.
M
other’s Day has always been a special day to celebrate my mom and being a mom. As a new golfer, learning to play has changed the relationship between my mom and I. It has given us a whole new avenue to connect, to relate, and to share time together. It has shown me a side of her that I knew she had, but had not fully witnessed. When we first started playing together, I asked her, “So, who gets your clubs out of the car, Dad?” She responded, “I do. They are my clubs and I am capable.” Then, I asked, “Do you get down in the bunkers? How do you get out? Do you rake as you leave the sand trap?” She looked at me like I was crazy… After all, she is 75 years old, it seemed like a valid question. She quickly said, “I got the ball in the trap and I will go and hit it out of the trap, leaving no evidence I was even there.” Well, that she does. She just chips those shots right out of the bunker like a professional! Since I can now play golf with my mom, I get to join in at her golf tournaments and play with her and her friends. They have nothing but amazing praise for her character, her smile, her generosity and her strength. My mother and her friend, Annette, have played at a tournament in Palm Desert for the last 3 years. They have come in 1st place two times, and second place once. They wear their matching outfits and out-do all the competition in both fashion and athleticism. One thing I have learned about playing golf with women is that you cannot be a sissy! A foursome of women on a course will keep you in line and for sure there will be NO gimmes. Know your rules, your etiquette, and be prepared. The first time we golfed on Mother’s Day was in 2018; my mom and I were the only two women playing on the crowded Callippe Golf Course. I could not believe the whole course was filled with men on Mother’s Day. Nonetheless, the two of us absolutely had a great day together in the sunshine.
Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses
2019 Incline Village Member-Guest Tournament. We placed 2nd!
May 2019, I decided to take my children to play golf at The Ritz Carlton in Halfmoon Bay. Our deal is that on Mother’s Day, I get to choose what we do and take as many pictures of them as I want, without complaints. This was my day to celebrate being their mom in a fun and healthy way. I did surprise them by making sure we each had our own golf carts, which was a little fun bonus! Although when we started it was freezing, overcast, and foggy, it was still so beautiful and amazing. We bundled up and headed out for 18 holes of golf on the Ocean Course. The best views were of my children laughing, connecting, and playing golf with the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop. Blink to this year - May 2020, COVID-19 and all that goes with it. My parents have been at home in Tahoe, which never seemed so far as it does now. Four hours away or 4 doors away, most of us could not hug or be with our mom on this year’s Mother’s Day. My mom is one of the biggest blessings in my life. Her strength, her intelligence, her maternal instinct, her guidance and her unending love. I cherish our days we have had on the course, and will not let an opportunity to play golf with my mom, dad, children or friends, in the future, pass me up!
Lynne Harrosh is an avid golfer and traveler. Follow her on Facebook & Instagram @ TeeItUpTravel to get connected to the best places to golf, golf technology, golf equipment, discounts on green fees, stay & plays, and golf travel - lynneharrosh@me.com
DANVILLE LIVING CA 25
Expert Contributor
While Jewelry May Not Be “Essential,” Love and Celebration Are! By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry & The Broadway Plaza Forevermark Boutique
J
ust like you, we at Padis Jewelry have been social distancing to protect our community and families. Many of us are getting restless and we’ve all been asked to sacrifice a lot; like milestone celebrations, family gatherings, and date nights out. A quote that really struck us during all of this is that “we are all in the same storm but not in the same boat.” We love this because it’s a great reminder that we all are fighting through this and getting by however we can. We have so many friends and family that have struggled through this and our hearts are with them and anyone who is going through tough times. It is certainly a challenge to have your livelihood put at stake by an invisible enemy in the form of a pandemic. Mostly what we’ve missed is human interaction. Perhaps the biggest “win” experienced from the short-lived isolation from our community is a new appreciation for the people in our lives we’ve had to live without. Our relationships, our families, our coworkers and our “tribe” are so crucial to what makes life worth living. We have seen couple after couple, and family after family find unique and creative ways
to celebrate love and life’s most precious moments. Edgar and Abigail are a perfect example of this. Edgar had truly epic plans for his proposal including having both families fly out for their special moment. As circumstances changed, Edgar pivoted his plan to perhaps one of the most beautiful proposals we’ve ever seen – complete with rose petals, their dog and a scenic background of the city of San Francisco. These photos bring tears to our eyes, and we want to share them as a reminder that despite these crazy times, love always finds a way! You can be confident that our Padis Jewelry family will be here for you when it’s safe to celebrate life’s most precious milestones together again, every step of the way. We understand more than ever that love isn’t canceled. We are here for you to help celebrate all of those life moments. We cannot wait to welcome you back in the store again soon. Stay safe and healthy! From the Entire Padis Jewelry Family Photo credit: Shannon Alyse Photo
26
JUNE 2020
DANVILLE LIVING CA 27
Danville LIVING CA
1393
Stop in and save on AAA House Manager Have questions about AAA House Manager? Wondering if our service is right for you? Our Agents are available and ready to help. Stop by our San Ramon branch and mention Danville Living to receive 20% off an annual AAA House Manager membership. Visit our San Ramon branch located at 2435 San Ramon Valley Blvd Ste 5, San Ramon Š 2020 AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah. All rights reserved. AAA House Manager is a service provided by AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah.