Danville Living CA March 2023

Publication Team

Publisher: Jo Peek, Danville Resident since 2014

Content Coordinator: Anne Angstenberger, Resident since 2006

Designer: Emily Lund

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: aangstenberger@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. © 2023 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Hello Neighbors!

The month of March in Danville always seems to offer a hopeful feeling that the coldest days are behind us and spring is right around the corner. The sun sets a bit later each day and the emerald green hills entice the best of us to wonder if we are in CA or Ireland (even for just a moment!). The longer days give residents even more opportunity to get outside and enjoy the wonderful town we love!

March Maddess is also here and we could not think of a better family to be featured on the cover of Danville Living. This month you’ll take a peek into the life of MJ and Garry St.Jean. MJ and Garry have an awesome story to share about thier love for basketball, their family and all things Danville. You’ll also have a chance to read a great collection of expert articles, community celebrations, sporting events, and philanthropic opportunites that will interest the whole family.

Remember, if you have a story to share or know a neighbor that you would love to see on our cover, please send me an email at aangstenberger@bestversionmedia.com. We welcome all families, couples, or individuals - the only requirement is that our feature family live on the west side of Danville. So send your friends and neighbors my way, I can’t wait to meet them!

See you around town!

Anne Angstenberger

Content Coordinator, Resident since 2006

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

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

Jo Peek

Expert Contributors

Banking Community Bank of the Bay Team Danville 925-838-2902

info@bankcbb.com

www.bankcbb.com

Cooling & Heating

Eco-Pro

844-605-2194 callecopro.com

Cosmetic Surgery

Stephen J. Ronan MD FACS

Blackhawk Plastic Surgery and Migraine Center

925-736-5757

www.blackhawkplasticsurgery.com

Dentist

Dr. Cynthia Stephenson, DDS

Dentist of Walnut Creek 925-938-6000

www.dentistofwalnutcreek.com

Life Coach

EYC Life Coach

Christina Dalton

925-872-4726

Christina@EYHLifeCoach.com

www.eyhlifecoach.com

Memory Care Carefield Pleasanton Memory Care

Parveen Singh 925-750-8744

www.carefieldpleasanton.com

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

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

Eco Pro is a family-owned and operated HVAC company established in 2016 with over five decades of combined technical experience, serving six major counties in Northern California, including Pittsburg and the surrounding areas. Call (925) 272-0094 today to learn more about our services and request a same-day service appointment!

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

We recognize that all of our patients are unique and deserve to receive dental care that reflects their individual needs. Our experienced and talented dental team is committed to working with you and your family to create a comfortable, stressfree, and rewarding dental experience every time you visit our practice. We are pleased to welcome you and your family, and we look forward to working with you.

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

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

Expert Contributors

Mortgage

CrossCountry Mortgage LLC

W. Todd Galde 925-854-5238

todd.galde@myccmortgage.com www.toddgalde.com

Real Estate

Lisa Hopkins-Cochran Compass 925-964-5010

Lisa.Hopkins@Compass.com www.LoveHomes.pro

Remodeling

America’s Dream Homeworks

Vlad Chernioglo (916) 739-0996

vladc@dreamhomeworks.com

Wealth Management

Jim Carbonell

Matt Forrey

The Carbonell Forrey Wealth Management Group 925-279-1701

carbonellforreywmg@rbc.com www.rbcwmfa.com/carbonellforreywmg/

Wine

The Barnyard Epicurean Wine Bar

Lisa and Will Dickson 925-725-4594

thebarnyardepicurean@gmail.com www.barnyardwinebar.com

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

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

Lisa’s consultative and solutions based approach to real estate sales has been impressing her clients for 32 years. Lisa is an East Bay native and longtime resident of Danville, where she’s been involved in the community while raising her two children. Lisa takes pride in excellent communication skills, creativity, attention to details, and empathy, to provide the ultimate customer experience and successful transactions. Contact Lisa for “Service from the Heart.”

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

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.

The Barnyard Wine Bar is that warm and welcoming cozy place – a new but familiar escape. Smells of wood, barrels, and corks; sounds of clinking glasses & laughter. Velvet energy, good vibes & light, coupled with delicious wines, cheese, charcuterie, craft beer and acoustic music. An ambient venue for date night, friends’ night out or elevated private party. Born and raised in Northern California, Will & Lisa’s journey has always involved the passion of the rich foods and wines of the region. Welcome to the Barnyard Wine Bar experience.

Find us online DanvilleLivingCA

Meet the

St. Jeans Living each day for the love of the game and one another

By Anne Angstenberger, Resident

Sports have always played an important role in the St. Jean household. MJ’s undergraduate degree was in physical education, and she met her perfect match in Garry being an NBA coach and executive for over 32 years. During his time with the NBA, Garry worked for the Bucks, the Nets, the Kings and our hometown heroes, the Golden State Warriors. Danville has a local legend on the westside, as Garry spent many years with the Warriors, specifically as the team’s Head Coach and General Manager. After coaching, Garry continued to use his talents as an analyst TV sportscaster for the Golden State Warriors. To this day, Garry remains connected to broadcasting through a weekly radio show on 95.7, The Game.

Originally from Massachusetts, Garry St. Jean met MJ while boarding a plane at Logan Airport in Boston, MA. MJ was a flight attendant for American Airlines at the time and was in her uniform “deadheading” (when an airline crew member flies on a plane while not working the flight). She was lucky enough to be seated in First Class right next to Garry. From Boston to Dallas, they spent the next four hours talking non-stop, and “the rest is history!” Prior to their meeting, MJ attended University of Massachusetts for her BS degree and Suffolk University in Boston for her MBA. She spent many years working for American Airlines as a flight attendant and flight service manager. More recently, MJ is well known in Danville as a top performing real estate agent and has even been the recipient of many national awards; notably named as San Francisco’s Top 100 Realtors in 2021 and 2022.

For anyone that knows the St. Jeans, they know that basketball plays a central role in their life and hearts. It’s fitting that Garry attended Springfield College (the birthplace of basketball!) for both his undergraduate and Master’s degrees. Shortly after, he received an advanced degree from American International College in Springfield, MA. Garry began coaching basketball at his former high school and eventually was hired to work for Don Nelson at the NBA team, the Milwaukee Bucks. When Garry first met MJ, he was working as a coach for the Milwaukee Bucks in Wisconsin. It was during this time that Garry and MJ were married and lived in Milwaukee, until his successful career with the NBA sent them to New Jersey, across the country to the Bay Area, Sacramento and eventually planting roots and settling in Danville to raise their family. The St. Jeans have lived in a few different neighborhoods within Danville, from Northridge Estate, to the El Pintado Loop, to their current home on the westside.

Garry and MJ have two children, Emily and Gregory, who both attended St. Isidore school as children. Beginning to cultivate their own love for basketball, both Emily and Gregory started playing basketball through the St. Isidore CYO program (and Garry as their coach, lucky teams!). Emily continued her education at Carondelet High School and then Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, also playing basketball for the Bulldogs! Making her way home back to California, Emily now lives in Danville with her husband, Patrick, and their three children: Cassidy, William, and Joseph. Not to be overshadowed by his big sister, Gregory too played basketball at De La Salle, then later at Wesleyan University. Following in his father’s footsteps, Gregory is currently a coach for the NBA team, the Dallas Mavericks!

Throughout the years, MJ has been linked to the local community through her passion for real estate, volunteering at St. Isidore Church and school, as well as leading small group bible studies. Although her successful career in real estate keeps her quite busy, she remains focused on spending as much time as possible with their children and grandchildren. Some of the St.Jean’s

since 2006

Photos provided by the St. Jean family

most fond memories include their time spent at summer family gatherings on Cape Cod, MA. When Gregory’s busy coaching schedule with the Mavericks permits, the whole family enjoys carving out time to do an annual trip to Kona, Hawaii or sneaking away to Aptos, CA as much as possible. The beach is definitely a home away from home for the St. Jeans!

Since moving to the westside of Danville 12 years ago, MJ and Garry have fallen in love with the small town community. They enjoy their walkable downtown location to church, restaurants and the Iron Horse Trail. On weekdays you might even catch Garry riding his bike to Garden Montessori Preschool as he drops off and picks up his grandson, William. They love taking advantage of their westside location and biking back home after preschool to have lunch together. Garry and MJ also love hearing the bells, band and cheers from sporting events at San Ramon Valley High School. It’s that connection to their neighbors and community that they love about the westside. The St. Jean family feels blessed to call Danville home and have their family and friends here as well. Keep your eye out for Garry and MJ around town, they would love to say hello!

ARF Adoption Stars

By Christa Noriega, ARF Adoption Manager

Adopt a new best friend at ARF in Walnut Creek! View available dogs and cats online or visit ARF in-person: Wednesday-Sunday, 12-6pm, with early-bird sign-in available on weekdays beginning at 9 am. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share information about their history and behavior, and provide helpful resources. This process can take time—please allow 60-90 minutes for in-person appointments. Here are a few of our adorable animals looking for love:

Harlequin Douglas

Four-year-old Douglas is a fabulous, easygoing boy with a penchant for cuddles and loves. While he’s low-key, he also loves a good play session and won’t turn up his nose at some fun and a good romp! This handsome boy has already started his doggie education and knows ‘sit’ and ‘shake’. He would love to continue stimulating his sharp mind and learning more tricks and obedience training, especially to earn tasty treats as this pup is highly food motivated. He would also love to get plenty of physical exercise and he will be a great buddy to encourage you to have a more active and healthy lifestyle. Your life will be so much better with Douglas in it, as he’s sure to make a loving, loyal, and life-enriching companion .He has a positive history with other dogs and currently weighs 52 pounds.

One-year-old Harlequin is an incredible young lady with a disposition beyond her age. This bubbly gal is like sunshine on four legs, and her soothing warmth is a joy to be around. She will endearingly and gently request pets and attention, and the soft, soulful look in her eyes will tell you how much she loves and appreciates you. She is also fun little lady who enjoys an energetic romp with doggy pal, and she’d appreciate an adopter who will provide her with plenty of play and adventure to accompany all the loves. Truly, Harlequin is a total gem of a dog who you do not want to miss! She currently weighs 43 pounds. Bonus: Harlequin’s adoption fee has been prepaid by a generous donor

ARF adoption fees: $250 for an adult dog, $375 for a puppy (<6 months), $150 for a special-needs dog, $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months), and $150 for a senior dog (7+ years). Adoption fees are waived for US military Veterans.

Featured Article

Project ADAM continues mission in wake of Damar Hamlin case

By Logan Hanson, BVM Sports Journalist/Editor

Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin’s sudden cardiac arrest on Monday Night Football made the nation hold its collective breath. While Hamlin is on his way to recovery, others haven’t been as lucky. In 1999, Whitefish Bay High School athlete Adam Lemel died after suffering a sudden cardiac arrest during a basketball game. Today, Lemel’s family and Children’s Wisconsin work nationally to save other children through Project ADAM... Continue reading on the BVM Sports website.

Adam Lemel Image Courtesy: Project ADAM and Children’s Wisconsin

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.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS March

Thur., March 2

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss

@Danville Community Center

The Town of Danville and the Danville Library invite you to join the fun and festivities at the 15th Annual Dr. Seuss Birthday Party! Participants will start their celebration at the Danville Library and will continue across the downtown and into several Danville Parks. Festivities include story walks, readings, and much more! Pre-registration required. Register online at www.danville.ca.gov/ recguide and reference activity# 32397. Time: 4pm-5:15pm Cost: Free

Fri., Feb 24 - Sun., March 5

Taste Tri-Valley Restaurant Week

@Tri-Valley Region (Danville/San Ramon/ Dublin/Pleasanton/Livermore) Restaurants

Taste Tri-Valley Restaurant Week highlights the diverse culinary scene of our region over the span of 10 delicious days in the form of special foodie events, unique menu offerings, and exclusive deals to the top restaurants, wineries and breweries in the Tri-Valley. See https://visittrivalley.com/restaurantweek/ for participating business and activities.

Thur., March 16

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration

@ Oak Hill Park

The Town of Danville is excited to host our St. Patrick’s Day event. Break out your green attire the afternoon prior to St Patrick’s Day to partake in crafts and activities themed after the Irish culture. Pre-registration required. Register online at www.danville.ca.gov/ recguide and reference activity# 32203. Time: 4pm-5:15pm

Cost: $6.00

Sat., March 18

Danville Amazing Race

@ Danville Community Center and Library

Middle school and high school teams of 4 will race around Downtown Danville participating in various activities to get

to their next clue and win the grand prize. Team captains need to sign up the entire team and fill out all custom questions when registering. Sign-ups close on March 14 at 5:00 p.m. Pre-registration required. Register online at www.danville.ca.gov/recguide and reference activity# 32383 or call the Danville Community Center at 925-314-3400.

Time: 1pm-4pm

Cost: $20 per team

Sat., March 25

Children’s Book Launch Party by local author and illustrator

@Ygnacio Valley Library, Walnut Creek

Local author, Kara Navolio, will read her new picture book Maggie Discovers the Rainbow, a magical colorful adventure. There will also be a special presentation by the illustrator, Tracie Timmer, discussing how the process of illustrating picture books works. Activities for kids, book signing and refreshments. All are welcome to join. Sponsored by the Walnut Creek Library Foundation. www. karanavolio.com for more information.

Time: 11am-12pm

Cost: Free

Sat., March 25

Convergence, The Intersection of Wax, Color Pigment and Design Art Exhibit @ Village Theatre Art Gallery

A collection of encaustic paintings on panel, an ancient art form explored in modern times. The exhibit will be on display from March 25 to May 26, 2023. Opening Reception will be held on Saturday, March 25, 2023 More information: artgallery@danville.ca.gov

Time; 4pm-6pm

Cost: Free

Fri., March 31

Stroll Down Penny Lane - Celebrating The Life and Music of Paul McCartney

@ Village Theater

Celebrate the music of legendary Paul McCartney with Stroll Down Penny Lane.

Each show will consist of two 70-minute sets with one 20-minute intermission. Two performances available: March 31 and April 1. Box office doors open one hour prior to the start of the performance. More information: Contact John Dunn @ 925-314-3418.

Time: 7:30pm-10pm

Cost: $41 Online or $49 at the door

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, seafood, meats, local honey, and baked goods. More information at www.pcfma.com

Time: 9am-1pm

Cost: Free

Every Saturday

Tips for Preventing Caregiver Burnout

By Parveen Singh, Senior Executive Director at Carefield Pleasanton Memory Care

Are you suffering from increased levels of stress, trying to maintain support with cooking, cleaning, medications, doctors visits and being a companion to mom or dad - while still maintaining the care and responsibilities for your own family?

You are a part of a growing group of caregivers called the “sandwich generation”. Today, one in five Americans simultaneously care for elderly loved ones while also juggling the responsibility of caring for their own family. Avoiding caregiver burnout is as essential to you as it is for those you care for. Here are some tips:

1. Schedule time for YOU - Start today by blocking off time on your calendar for you. Take 30 minutes today to do something you enjoy, whether that’s shopping, going out for a coffee or even reading a book.

2. Talk with a licensed mental health counselor - 20-40% of caregivers experience depression due to the stresses of providing care. Regular sessions with a therapist not only give you time to talk about your feelings, it’s also another way to designate time for yourself.

3. Seek help from additional family members - Sharing the responsibility of caring for a loved one can help. If your extended family do not live close by and cannot physically be there to help, you can enlist their help with tasks that can be done remotely like managing bills, subscriptions, appointments, and finances.

4. When your loved one’s needs increase, look into a senior living community. One of the benefits of a senior living community is that there is a team that can provide around the clock care and professional expertise. Letting a team of professionals take on the role of caregiving can allow you to get back to your favorite role…daughter, son, wife, husband, family.

The team at Carefield Pleasanton is always available to answer your questions about memory care for your loved one, and the benefits of a community. Contact Carefield Pleasanton by calling (925) 750-8744 or visit www.CarefieldPleasanton.com today.

Hope Solutions 2023 Gala

By Carrie H. Veurink, Development & Community Outreach Manager, Hope Solutions

Don’t miss an opportunity to kick up your heels and join us for a special evening benefiting a great cause. Hope Solutions, formerly Contra Costa Interfaith Housing, is proud to present this year’s 15th annual gala, Ruby Boots – There’s No Place Like Home on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at the San Ramon Marriott. All proceeds from this life-changing event directly benefit homeless families and individuals here in Contra Costa County.

Hope Solutions, founded in 1997 by a group of local faith-based congregations, works to heal the multi-generational effects of poverty, trauma, and homelessness by providing permanent housing solutions and vital support services to our communities most vulnerable families and individuals.

Contra Costa County continues to suffer from an extreme shortage of affordable housing. In 2021, over 9,000 people accessed emergency housing services in the County. 71% of those had a disabling condition such as a chronic health, mental or physical disability.

Hope Solutions has served over 2,200 individuals and families this past year apart is its proven model of permanent housing coupled with supportive services. Permanent housing and on-site support services are the foundation on which Hope Solutions residents can build self-reliant, dignified, and sustainable lives.

Housing is just the beginning. Hope Solutions’ skilled team, many with lived experience, work alongside their clients through individualized mental health counseling, employment support, financial literacy, and social and academic youth enrichment. They also provide parenting support and crisis management to heal the deeply rooted trauma of homelessness and poverty. Hope Solutions empowers their clients to reconnect and sustain their community networks.

Don’t miss out on the chance to support the 2023 Ruby Boots Gala including becoming a sponsor, donating an auction item, and/or buying tickets. To learn more and buy your tickets, visit hopesolutions.org/ annualgala. It will be an uplifting evening and a fun way to support our community.

Retirement Age Expectations vs. Reality

By Matt Forrey, RBC Wealth Management Financial Advisor, Resident since 2009

Workers typically plan to retire much later than the actual age reported by retirees. In the 2022 Retirement Confidence Survey, 65% of workers said they expect to retire at age 65 or older (or never retire), whereas 69% of retirees left the workforce before reaching age 65. When choosing a retirement age, it might be wise to consider a contingency plan.

Feel free to contact me at matthew.forrey@rbc.com or call my office directly at 925-279-1710 with any questions or comments.

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.RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member

The best returns are more than financial

SRVHS Men’s Basketball Senior Night and Win

By Carrie Nevis, SRVHS Athletic Boosters

The San Ramon Valley High School Men’s Varsity Basketball Team defeated Monte Vista High School on February 3, 2023. This sold out, crosstown rivalry matchup was one for the books. The SRV fans, 6th Man, and the pommies generated the electricity, and the Wolves delivered the victory.

Although the commanding win against the Mustangs brought fans rushing to the gym floor to celebrate, the evening started out with a sweet reflective celebration, called Senior Night. Senior Night is a tradition all about celebrating the athletes’ time in high school sports, showing appreciation for the athletes’ families and supporting the seniors as they play their last home game. It’s a night to remember and to look forward to the future. The four senior basketball players honored were Nick Nevis #1, Parker McClaughry #2, Nick Storm #11, and Luke Torchiana #21. In the fall, all of these young men will attend college (Nevis-Ole Miss, McClaughry-undecided, StormTCU, and Torchiana-USC).

Our Wolves compete in an incredibly tough league that is highly competitive and full of very talented players, but all their hard work has paid off as the Wolves secured a spot in the Open Division for Northern Coast Section. They will be playing basketball into March as they battle for the State title. This is the first time in school history that SRV has earned a spot in the Open. Go Wolves!

Photo Credit to Cariana Ciappoin

Photo Credit to Bridget McDonnell

Wolves Baseball is Back!

By SRV Athletic Department

Cheer

Mustang SC to Celebrate State Cup Winners at San Jose Earthquakes Game on May 6th

By Melissa Durkee, Mustang SC, Marketing & Communications Director

The San Jose Earthquakes is partnering NorCal Premier Soccer and celebrating all State Cup winners at their match on Saturday, May 6th vs. LAFC, 4:30 PM at Levi’s Stadium. Each player will receive a free ticket to the game and take part in a pre-game parade on the field. Their parents/guardians also have the option to purchase a discounted ticket as well.

Mustang Soccer members are also invited to join in the celebration with a Mustang Night at the Quakes on the same night! We have a special section reserved just for our club! Please go to our website, mustangsoccer.com, to purchase tickets in our special section. Please contact Katie Hoiyt, khoyt@sjearthquakes.com, for the following:

-If you have a team or group of more than 20 people

-If you would like to buy in a different section

-If you would like to purchase a suite

to our eight teams who are State Cup winners!

Hi,I’m Daniel Fujimoto from Community Bank of the Bay’s (CBB’s) Danville office.

Big-multinational banks have used their name recognition, lengthy history and the power of spending billions on advertising as the reasons why you should bank with them, but we know there is a better way.

Community banks are gaining momentum with consumers who are looking for something more personal than what megabanks can offer. It’s important to understand that while all megabanks, community banks and credit unions are subject to federal regulations, not all banks prioritize their client’s best interest.

Types of Local Banks

Community Banks are generally forprofit businesses. Local banking is

Why Bank Locally?

By Daniel Fujimoto, Community Bank of the Bay

financially similar to shopping locally. These banks exist to create jobs in their local communities and are stable financial partners for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit organizations in the communities they serve.

Credit Unions are nonprofit organizations where each customer is a member (which may include some qualifications), and profits are returned to members, usually in the form of lower fees, surcharge-free ATM usage, and lower loan rates.

Benefits of Banking Locally

Reports show that roughly 33% of adults in the US would prefer to bank at a community bank or a credit union rather than a megabank. This is due in part to the fact that local banks employ the people who live in the community.

Historically, local banks are deeply rooted in their communities. You can walk into your local bank and be welcomed by name! Local banking institutions understand that their decisions directly impact their local communities and use that as their guiding principle.

At CBB, our community continues to come first, especially during rougher times. For example, CBB helped over 650 local small businesses secure Paycheck Protection Program loans during the pandemic. Our PPP team worked around

the clock (even on weekends) to secure PPP loans for both clients and non-clients. We even worked on smaller loans, which was certainly “different, on purpose”. In fact, our smallest PPP loan was under $500--we’re told that was unheard of. When CBB said we would turn no one away, we meant it!

While “big” banks have major financial lending capabilities as stand-alone institutions, many local banks have created a way to work together and provide larger loans to small businesses through collaborative lending.

If making a move to a local bank has been on your radar, it’s time to make the switch. CBB offers quick decision-making and local knowledge when it comes to lending: our lower banking fees, fee-free access to nationwide ATMs makes the choice easy. Stop in to CBB and see why community banking is the best-kept secret in the financial industry.

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

Thinking of Moving?

A Better Way to Buy and a Simpler Way to Sell

By W. Todd Galde, CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC

It’s not so hard to buy your next home before selling your current one!

“Should I buy before I sell?” is one of the most common questions I receive as a mortgage professional. While the answer hasn’t always been easy, new loan options have made buying before selling more beneficial than ever before.

Reasons for buying before selling: Everyone’s circumstances are different. But buying before selling has its advantages, especially for people in the following situations:

Moving down: Seasoned homeowners looking to purchase in a retirement community, be closer to the grandkids, or just have a smaller single-story home with less maintenance.

Moving up: Soon-to-be new parent?

Purchase a larger home before selling the current house to deliver a smooth and unrushed experience for mom and baby. Moving over: Make the move to another state before having to sell the current home, then embark on the road trip under your terms.

Moving out: Soon-to-be divorced?

Refinance the departing spouse off the loan or buy the new home before the spousal and child support are usable for conventional financing.

A simple process: Buying before you sell takes four easy steps:

1. Buy your new home before listing your current home

2. Move into your new home at your leisure

3. Renovate, stage, and sell your old home for top dollar

4. Tell everyone how easy it is!

Should you buy before you sell?

If your situation is the right fit, we can originate a short-term bridge loan against your new property, existing property, or both – making sure you get from here to there as smoothly as possible. Benefits to this homebuying approach include:

• Preview homes you want to buy now

• Make non-contingent offers in a competitive market

• Stay in your current home while remodeling the new one

• Avoid interim expenses

• List your home fully staged to increase the resale price

You can do this – and we can help: At CCM, we provide fast and simple solutions for homeowners. If you have substantial equity in your existing home and want to buy a replacement before having to sell or even list it, we’re ready to get it done. Contact us today to get started!

Todd Galde VP, Sr. Mortgage Advisor CrossCountry Mortgage,

LLC

6101 Bollinger Cyn Rd, Ste 301 San Ramon, CA 94583

NMLS256864

Call/Txt: 925.381.8190

Todd.Galde@ccm.com

Equal Housing Opportunity. All loans subject to underwriting approval. Certain restrictions apply. Call for details. CrossCountry Mortgage, LLC. NMLS3029 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act.

March is the celebration of Spring. But what is often ignored is that March is the rejuvenation of the Equinox - an event that happens twice a year. The Equinox is the opening of Spring - March 21. Known as the Vernal Equinox, the Equinox is the only time when both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere experience the same amount of daylight and darkness - perfect balance.

To Find And Create Balance

By Christina Dalton, MS, PPS, PCC, EYH Life Coach

I love this time of year. Each day awakens me with a little more sunlight, like a light switch that slowly raises the dimmer of a light bulb to full brightness. With the approach of mid June - June 21the summer Solstice - the days grow longer and longer until nature celebrates the longest day of the year. This is nature’s pattern of inviting balance to bring out the full beauty of life. For me, this time of year awakens me to achieve balance within myself. To be the best for others I need to achieve my healthy balance first. With warmer weather and less rain, I find joy in outside activities. I aspire to play more tennis, more golf and to bring lap swimming back - an activity that takes a pause around mid October every year. My body literally absorbs the endorphins through exercising, outdoor socializing, sun rays and fresh air. This is the food my body craves.

To further the balance, I create opportunities to read, write, and work my brain with new insights and revelations. Throw in family time, and healthy but delicious recipes (taking advantage of fresh fruits and vegetables), I have attained my much needed balance. Where are you in achieving your personal balance? Each of us are different in what brings us joy and completion. Are you struggling and feeling the void that comes from a lack of balance? Are you feeling stressed - either physically or emotionally? You may also be hungry for the ingredients that bring you physical and mental balance. Consider exploring how it feels to be at your best. Imagine the energy you felt as you lived a balanced life. When was it and what brought you the satisfaction of appreciating who you are? How can you bring this part of you back? Pulling out your inner light to feel complete can sometimes be more difficult than we realize.

If you are struggling to turn up your dimmer switch to be balanced in what is possible, I can help. That inner light is in you. Let’s turn on the switch, open the windows, and rejuvenate the sunshine.

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

Perhaps It’s Time for Fun?

By Lisa Hopkins-Cochran, Realtor® at Compass

Has your life changed in a way that is leaving you questioning whether or not your home is still the right size? Perhaps you now have an empty nest, or your nest is beginning to fill? Perhaps you’re working from home, or recently retired? One of the certainties of life is change. While change often brings the decision to make a move, there is a recent trend that might be a better fit for you.

Instead of “downsizing” or “moving up,” many homeowners are now finding that “fun-sizing” is the best option for them. Fun-sizing is based on the concept of opting for energetic and exuberant design that breathes new life into the aesthetics and function of your home. For the recent empty nester, this might involve transforming a bedroom into a home gym or hobby room. For the growing nest, it might mean letting go of a formal dining room and transforming it into a play area…at least for now. Funsizing may also be about accepting change and the resulting freedom to have your home reflect your own personal style.

How do you decide if fun-sizing is right for you? It usually comes down to finances and (like all things real estate) location, location, location. If refurnishing a room or two, or repurposing part of your yard creates the ideal home, then it’s probably a much better financial approach than selling your current home and buying a new one. If you desire major changes, such as eliminating stairs or leaving behind the maintenance of a large yard, a move probably makes more sense. An important question to ask yourself is “where” do you want to be? Do you love your neighbors & community? If so, there is great value in making your current home work. If life has changed and you have both the freedom and the desire to move to another location - dream big! Your next chapter might be someplace else, where new adventures await.

If there’s no place like home and you decide to invest in changes to improve your current home, it’s best to spend some time

collecting ideas and evaluating the desired changes. Think about the seasons and how they impact your lifestyle, both indoors and out. Unless you plan to stay in your home forever, keep your improvements to the house itself as neutral and simple as possible. For example, you can create your desired look and feel with furnishings, accessories, light fixtures & window coverings…while maintaining neutral/classic flooring, cabinets and other surfaces that will still appeal to a wide audience, when you’re ready to sell. Ideally, you want to create an ambiance that energizes you, while still maintaining your investment.

As you weigh your options, take the time to consult with a trusted REALTOR®, as well as your accountant, to learn more about your options, potential tax consequences and realistic numbers. If you’re interested in exploring your options, please reach out to me for a complimentary evaluation at 925-964-5010 or via email at Lisa.Hopkins@Compass.com. Knowledge is power and it enables you to make well thought out and informed decisions.