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)
Sat., Oct. 5
Jubilee Road’s Extraordinary Playlist
@ Village Theater
Simon & Garfunkel, Tom Petty, Crosby Stills and Nash, Pink Floyd, David Bowie, the Beatles… These are just some of the artists on rotation in Jubilee Road’s Extraordinary Playlist. Hear their fresh interpretations of songs you know and love – along with heartwarming originals by the group –in one harmony-filled, uplifting night of music. Also featuring acclaimed guest vocalist Darryl Rowe, and dynamic opening act Impulse A Cappella, who performs renditions of your favorite songs, past and present – no instruments required.
Time: 7pm
Cost: $15-30
Sat., Oct. 12
Opening Reception -
Woodworks Art Exhibition
@ Art Gallery and Village Theater
This exhibition brings together artists who have transformed the natural medium of wood into stunning works of art. Each piece tells a unique story, inviting you to explore the intricate relationship between nature and creativity. Learn more about using wood as an art medium with upcoming workshops to be held throughout the exhibition.
Time: 5-7pm
Cost: Free
Sun., Oct. 13
Run for Education
@ Begins at Charlotte Wood Middle School and ends in Bishop Ranch
Join the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation’s 41st Run for Education on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Walk, run, roll, or stroll with friends, family, neighbors, teammates, and colleagues in support of our schools. Come for The Run and stay for the fun: kids’ zone, inflatable games, face painter, balloon artist, photo booth, exhibitor booths, and more! For more information visit https://srvef.org/the-run/. Time: 8am-11am
Sat., Oct. 19
Howl-o-ween Event: For the Dogs!
@The Cottage at Hap Magee Halloween has gone to the dogs, in the best paw-sible way! Join us for the first ever Howl-o-ween celebration including a costume contest, a pet parade and a photo opportunity. Costume categories include: silliest, most original, best owner/dog duo and best impersonation. Polite, leashed dogs welcome (No retractable leashes). Dogs must be current on all necessary vaccinations. All registered participants will receive a themed toy and a treat. Email tmcgrath@danville.ca.gov for more information. Time: 10am-12pm
Cost: Free
Thurs., Oct. 24
Spooktacular Celebration
@ Town Green
Join us for a Scooby-Doo themed evening! The festivities will include arts and crafts, face painting, games, trick-or-treating, and lots of fall fun! Pre-registration is required-no walk-ins. Visit https://www.danville.ca.gov/ to register. For ages 1 to 10 years.
Time: 4-7:30pm
Cost: $10 (R), $12 (NR)
Every Saturday Farmers’ Market
@ Railroad Ave. Municipal Parking Lot Downtown Get the freshest seasonal fare at Danville Certified Farmers Market. You’ll find fruits and vegetables direct from local farmers, along with fresh cut flowers, seafood, meats, local honey, and baked goods. More information at www.pcfma.com.
Time: 9am-1pm
Cost: Free
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.
The month of October is one of the most festive and fun times to be a westside Danville resident! Whether you are a family who brings out the Halloween decorations right after Labor Day, or you wait until the week before Halloween to gather some Cinderella pumpkins for your porch, October in Danville is a sight to be seen. The colors of leaves changing, along with the crisp mornings and evenings, remind us all that the next few months will be filled with fall scented candles and our favorite cozy sweaters.
Our feature residents this month are Becky and Cole D’Onfro. This sweet family has made a huge move from their long standing roots on the east coast and happily are settling into their life on the westside. You will love to read their family story and how they have seamlessly integrated into true Danville locals. Our October issue is also filled with educational articles from our local experts, a yummy fall dessert recipe, and highlights of “Spooktacular” community events for the whole family!
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!
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
Advertising - Print & Digital
Danville Living CA
Jo Peek
925-272-8246
DanvilleLivingCA@gmail.com www.DanvilleLivingCA.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
Danville Music
Danville Music
115 Town and Country Dr. Suite E Danville, CA 94526 925-226-8772 info@danvillemusic.com
Dentist
Dr. Cynthia Stephenson, DDS Dentist of Walnut Creek 925-938-6000 www.dentistofwalnutcreek.com
Dermatology
Wallach Derma Center
Adam Wallach, M.D. 925-837-8848 www.WallachDermaCenter.com
Life Coach
EYC Life Coach
Christina Dalton 925-872-4726 Christina@EYHLifeCoach.com www.eyhlifecoach.com
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.
Over the last 9 years, Jo Peek has been helping local businesses, nonprofits, charities and schools connect with our community on a deeper level. She works with each client individually to customize a marketing campaign to suit their needs, timeline and budget.
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 are a full-service music center that offers high-quality, brand name instruments for purchase and rent, supplies and accessories, repair services, as well as private lessons with well-known, established instructors. Danville Music is proud to be Northern California’s premier guitar shop. Nothing compares to our selection of high quality and boutique custom instruments in a wide variety of price ranges.
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.
At Wallach Derma Center, our top priority is providing first-rate dermatologic health care. We have built a stellar reputation by developing relationships with our patients. We strive to understand your concerns, to answer the questions you have, and to develop an optimal, personalized treatment plan for you. Because of our strong emphasis on continuing education, we are able to offer you the latest, most advanced dermatologic treatments, with meticulous attention to both your good health and appearance. We have extensive experience in the treatment of a wide array of skin conditions in patients of all ages.
Christina has serviced the high school community for 39 years as: Lead Counselor, Math Dept. Chair, Academy Coordinator and Educational Trainer. As a certified executive Life Coach credentialed from UC Davis, Christina gives her clients a powerful edge. From developing a diverse college list, to creating a competitive profile with dynamic essays and interviewing strategy, Christina has guided hundreds of students into top universities throughout the United States.
Memory Care
Carefield Pleasanton Memory Care
Parveen Singh 925-750-8744 www.carefieldpleasanton.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/
To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact Jo Peek at jpeek@bestversionmedia.com.
Carefield Pleasanton provides exceptional memory care in a lovely senior living community located in Pleasanton, CA. With a nurse on staff and a compassionate team, we provide 24/7 support with a personalized care plan, an enriching calendar of activities, delicious dining, & private residences. Take a tour today.
Lisa’s consultative and solutions based approach to real estate sales has been impressing her clients for 33 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.” DRE#01111126
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.
By Anne Angstenberger, Resident since 2006
Photos provided by the D’Onfro family
Over two decades ago, Becky was attending an 8th grade basketball tournament at a local high school in Massachusetts, just as Cole D’Onfro was finishing up his high school basketball practice. Cole took notice of “an attractive girl in forest green pants who he had never seen before sitting with his friends; he quickly joined them and introduced himself to this mysterious beauty.” Becky still “remembers the butterflies she felt.” A mutual friend shared Becky’s phone number with Cole (back in the day when you had to call someone’s house phone), and so their journey began!
The two dated on and off throughout high school and college and married in 2010 in Leominster, MA. For Becky and Cole, they feel there is “something unique about marrying someone you met so young. We share lots of childhood friends and memories from our hometown.” Although they are different people than they were at 15, 25, 35 and beyond…they consider it “an honor to meet and support each new version of each other as we grow and build our family.”
They both grew up in Leominster, MA, a historical factory town in central Massachusetts known for the invention of plastic (“eek, sorry world!”) and the birthplace of Johnny Appleseed! Cole attended undergrad at the University of Maryland, followed by Northeastern University for his Masters Degree. Cole began his career as a CPA at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Boston and relocated to their San Francisco office in 2017. As a CPA and tax partner at PWC, Cole enjoys his role of building teams, mentoring young professionals, and recruiting new talent to the firm. He is very gifted in making clients, family, and friends feel comfortable and valued.
Becky attended nursing school at Catholic University in Washington DC. She has worked as an RN in a variety of inpatient and outpatient settings, but recounted her favorite job was at a “community health center in Boston providing care and patient advocacy to underserved populations.” Cole has always loved his wife’s natural inclination towards empathy and the “pursuit of a more just and kind world.” Her passion lies in mental health advocacy and social justice. Becky worked up until the day she went to the hospital to have Caden. She has employed her care giving skills at home full-time, raising the family since then.
The D’Onfro family is busy with 3 young children, who all attend Montair Elementary. Chandler (9) is quite the “inquisitive, observant, and kind” child. He loves researching his interests as
much as possible and sharing that information with others. Currently, his passions are focused on animals, mythology, and dragons. Mackenzie (6) is “perseverant, social, brave, and loves to try new things.” She keeps the family busy with Mustang Soccer and SRVGAL games, and takes art and chess classes through the Town of Danville. If Mackenzie is not singing and dancing to her favorite Taylor Swift song at home, she is likely getting messy with science and art projects with her brothers. The family’s youngest child, Caden (4), is “curious, determined, and independent.” He is enjoying his 1st season of Mustang soccer and building as many Lego sets as possible. Luckily for the D’Onfro family, their “Auntie E” (Becky’s younger sister) plays an important role in their family. She is always teaching the kids new skills and adventuring to library events. Her involvement in the children’s lives has “made California feel more like home.”
When Becky and Cole relocated to California 7 years ago, it proved to be one of the most challenging times to endure as a family. Moving away from friends and family was very difficult, especially because Cole’s father had just been diagnosed with terminal cancer the month prior to their move date. Additionally, Becky was 32 weeks pregnant with their 2ndchild and navigating the details of a cross country move while Cole faced the challenges that come with starting at a new office. Their first home on Estates Drive was filled with lots of friends and family visitors who helped to bring comfort and normalcy those first few years on the west coast. As time passed, the D’Onfros settled in and fell in love with their westside location. Four years ago, the family bought a home behind the Livery. They love being able to hike Las Trampas, take a quick walk to “Peacock Lane” (Westridge Ave…a local favorite), walk to the farmers’ market, check out new restaurants downtown, and spend time in their backyard pool.
While Becky and Cole are quite busy with their children, they both still find the time to enjoy plenty of hobbies. Becky loves gardening, reading, practicing yoga, hiking, and volunteering in the kids’ classrooms. A local neighbor and friend, Christine Biello, invited Becky to a hiking group last year. The group started as a way to support two local Montair moms fighting breast cancer and to raise money for the Ridge Hike for Prevention. The group has grown into a wonderful community of friends who gather at local hiking trails and has become a place of connection and support. Many laughs and tears have been shared on those trails, and Becky looks forward to meeting new people as the hiking community grows.
As an all-around sports enthusiast, Cole loves playing basketball, boxing, and coaching the kids’ sports teams. Becky and Cole are avid Boston sports fan, but have become quite the OKC Thunder fans in recent years,
travelling across the country to cheer on their childhood friend who is the head coach of the OKC Thunder (special thanks to Mark for sharing Becky’s phone number all those years ago!). Cole is also an “amazing chef” and enjoys spending time cooking for his family and friends. The family can even count on him when he is out of town for work, as he “preps meals for Becky and labels them with cooking instructions…talk about love language!”
Traveling and learning about other cultures, traditions, and geographic locations is a passion for the D’Onfro family. When Chandler was just 13 months, they traveled through Portugal, Spain and France for four weeks. With much of their family on the east coast, Becky and Cole spend time each summer sharing many of their favorite childhood spots with their own children. Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts are a few favorite summer destinations.
Although it may have been difficult to “move away from everything” they knew, Becky and Cole love creating new traditions in California. Weekend trips to Carmel, Tahoe, Mendocino, Orange County and, Disneyland, have helped make California feel like home. A favorite memory was when they “booked a last minute trip to Avila Beach, packed up the car on Christmas Eve Day, bought the last tree on display at the SLO Home Depot, and celebrated Christmas at the beach.” Becky and Cole love that the beach and mountains are all within a short drive from home and that they are able to create special memories with their own children. Even their home here on the westside is filled with trees and beautiful fall foliage, giving them a beautiful reminder of their east coast roots…with a special Danville feeling that all of us locals know and love.
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 aangstenberger@bestversionmedia.com.
By Chelsea Blackburn, Joybound
Adopt a new best friend at Joybound People & Pets (formerly the Animal Rescue Foundation) in Walnut Creek! View available dogs and cats online or visit Joybound in-person: Monday-Sunday, 12-6 pm. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share information about their history and behavior, and provide helpful resources.
Berry is a tall and elegant gentleman with a smile that will steal away even the hardest of hearts. His sensitive soul will need someone to love who can provide patience and understanding for his boundaries. He loves playing with his favorite toys, getting a good brush, or splashing in water
Bonus: Berry’s adoption fee has been sponsored by a generous admirer.
Joybound adoption fees:
• $150 for an adult dog
• $375 for a puppy (<6 months)
• $75 for a special-needs dog
• $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months)
• $75 for a senior dog (7+ years)
• Adoption fees waived for US military Veterans
Abby is a soulful and reserved 9-year-old Siamese beauty with mesmerizing blue eyes and a sleek coat. While Abby can be shy at first, she shows affection in her own way once she feels safe. With time, she precious kitty bonds deeply with someone who offers her the love and patience she needs.
• $100 for an adult cat
• $175 for a kitten (<6 months)
• $50 for a special-needs cat
• $100 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months)
• $50 for a senior cat (7+ years)
• Adoption fees waived for US military Veteran
For more than 20 years, Belmont Village has set the standard for senior living and care in the Bay Area. Elegant yet welcoming, Belmont Village San Ramon will be a vibrant, innovative community nestled in the heart of Bishop Ranch. Unparalleled hospitality, award-winning programs and renowned first-rate clinical care, surrounded by upscale shopping, dining, walking trails, arts and attractions. Experience the difference.
Pre-Opening Rates Available for a Limited Time
El Dorado Ave
Midland Way
Rubicon Cir
Garden Creek Pl
Ilo Ln
San Ramon Valley Blvd
Garden Creek Pl
$2,350,000 $2,125,000 $2,425,000
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.
By Dr. Cynthia E. Stephenson, DDS
Newly Single?
Change in Job or Circumstance?
Ready for Fresh New Gorgeous Teeth? Esthetic Dentistry can Change Your Life!
Esthetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of the teeth, gums, and smile. It can correct imperfections such as stained, crooked, or missing teeth, allowing individuals to feel more comfortable and confident in social and professional settings.
The transformative effects of esthetic dentistry can have a profound impact on various aspects of an individual’s life:
Enhanced Self-Confidence: A beautiful smile can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence.
Improved Relationships: A confident smile can positively influence interpersonal relationships.
Professional Advancement: In many professions, a confident, attractive smile can make a positive impression on clients, colleagues, and employers, and can help individuals feel more self-assured during job interviews, presentations, and networking events, potentially leading to advancement opportunities.
Youthful Appearance: As people age, the natural wear and tear on teeth can contribute to a worn or aged appearance. Esthetic procedures such as whitening, veneers, and dental implants
can rejuvenate the smile, creating a more youthful, vibrant look.
Improved Oral Health: Some esthetic dentistry procedures not only enhance the appearance of the smile but also contribute to better oral health like improved bite alignment that reduces the risk of dental problems including tooth decay and gum disease.
Positive Lifestyle Changes: Achieving a beautiful smile through esthetic dentistry can inspire individuals to adopt healthier lifestyle habits. They may become more motivated to maintain proper oral hygiene, follow a nutritious diet, and avoid harmful habits, all of which contribute to better overall health and well-being.
Increased Happiness: Studies have shown that smiling can positively affect mood and emotional well-being by triggering the release of endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. Esthetic dentistry can give individuals the confidence to smile more freely, leading to increased happiness and a more positive outlook on life.
Overall, esthetic dentistry has the power to transform not only the appearance of the smile but also the quality of life for individuals seeking to improve their self-confidence, relationships, career prospects, and overall well-being.
Written by Dr. Cynthia Stephenson, D.D.S., trained at UCLA, and Albert Einstein Medical Hospital. For further questions please call 925-938-6000 or visit www.DentistOfWalnutCreek.com.
By Cassandra Boyer
Blackhawk Scholarship Fund (BSF) provides college scholarships to Contra Costa high school women in financial need who demonstrate outstanding academic and extracurricular achievement. BSF gave $5,000 each to six remarkable young women and hosted its annual Awards Ceremony at the Blackhawk Country Club for the honorees and their parents to celebrate their success. The honorees are Mariella Cajina, Laura Khuu, Lesly Silva Rosales, Alessandra May Tabbu, Isabella Thai, Adelina Zheng. This fall, they will be attending UC Berkeley, UC San Diego, Brown University, UC Davis, UC Irvine and California State San Luis Obispo. BSF congratulates these fine women on their exceptional high school resumes and wishes them well in college. Since its inception, BSF has awarded over $460,000 in scholarships. Do you know a deserving woman who needs a college scholarship? Do you want to contribute or help our volunteer-run organization? Learn more at bwscholarshipfund. com or send an email to bwscholarshipfund@gmail.com.
Marketing your business means focusing on how you solve customer problems and create a sense of progress. By demonstrating exactly how you alleviate both current and future customer problems, you’ll become trusted experts and build a loyal customer base. Here are a few ways to get started:
Local businesses have an advantage in understanding the specific challenges and pain points faced by their community members. By actively listening to customer feedback and engaging in conversations, businesses can identify the problems that matter most to residents. Addressing these problems through products, services, or even community initiatives can position your business as a valuable problem solver.
You are the expert in your field, so what may be common knowledge to you is new information to your readers. Teach your audience something they might not even know they should be aware of. By breaking down complex problems into clear, actionable steps, you provide value for your readers and establish yourself as a knowledgeable source.
Knowing customers by name and going the extra mile to provide exceptional service creates a sense of loyalty and trust. A personalized approach is valued by consumers, with 80% of people being more likely to do business with a company that offers personalized experiences.1
A commitment to the community is especially potent for small businesses. Collaboration is key for local businesses because it allows you to expand your reach and create positive goodwill in the community. They donate about 250% more than larger businesses to local nonprofits and community causes.2 Local partnerships demonstrate a commitment to building a stronger community.
By Jo Peek Expert Contributor
By Lisa Hopkins-Cochran, REALTOR® at Compass
For as long as I can remember, most people who want to sell their homes (but don’t have a specific timeline for when it has to happen) choose to sell in the spring market. Assuming that it’s an average year, there are many good reasons for this timing, including an historic trend of higher sales prices.
Even if your home is in model perfect condition, there are things that you will want to do to prepare for a sale. Having plenty of time is a lot less stressful than the alternative. You may want to consult with your CPA, financial planner, or an attorney, to make sure that you’re aware of tax consequences and strategies. If you hold title to your home in a trust, you’ll want to have documents available in advance for the title company. Even if you don’t have a trust, your Realtor® can help you with opening a “preescrow” with the title company, to make sure that all is in order. If part of your home selling plan includes buying another home, you’ll want to thoroughly research your purchase options, and if you’ll be needing financing, make sure that you are pre-approved and that there are no unforeseen surprises on your credit report.
Now is a great time to make two lists. The first is a list of trusted professionals who you should consult with now (Realtor®, CPA, attorney, etc.). The second is a list of home projects that
you think need to be done prior to market, to present your home in its best light. After you’ve made a project list, I strongly recommend meeting with your Realtor®. It’s a great time to share your list and get some professional feedback. There may be items on your list that aren’t necessary, and there may be some items that you’ve forgotten. An excellent Realtor® will guide you through your options to get the best return on your time and investment.
As you refine your list, pay special attention to the projects that can be affected by weather, supply chain issues and the availability of skilled labor. You’ll want to schedule these projects now, to make sure that they’re not holding you up next spring. It’s important to note that here in Danville, our “spring” market often takes off in February, and peaks in March and April. It’s usually weather dependent, so you should be prepared to be flexible. If your house needs exterior paint, roof work or anything else that can’t be done in the rain, get it done now.
Pay special attention to the small details, now. Do you have a beautiful appliance that needs a small repair, or perhaps a missing piece of specialized hardware on a cabinet? If you identify those items early and order the parts you need, you’ll be ready to go when the time comes. The items may not be expensive, but you may need significant time to get these parts and find the appropriate tradesperson to do the repair.
Think about your target date for selling your home. How does your landscaping look at that time of year? Do you have a spectacular show of color when your trees bloom? When do the leaves return on your trees? Consult with your Realtor® to see if it makes sense to plan around nature. It may, or may not. If your yard could use some sprucing up, take those plans into consideration now. Some plants will do best if they are put in the ground early, allowing time for the roots to establish and the plant to fill out. Others may be best planted early next year. Do you have a patio, deck or concrete that needs repair? These repairs are weather sensitive, too. Do you have a tree that needs pruning or removal? For many trees, autumn is the best time to prune. If you are planning to remove a tree, you may need time to get a permit.
Be realistic about plans that involve skilled professionals. Your preferred contractor may be booked well in advance, and it’s always smart to allow a good amount of buffer time for the completion of a big project. If you’re busy now and planning to utilize the end of December to early January, to get bids and make your plans, remember that many of the people you need to consult with may not be available, as they may be taking a break for the winter holidays.
Every home sale is unique. Please feel free to reach out to me at 925-964-5010 or via email at Lisa.Hopkins@Compass.com to discuss your options. It’s never too early to start planning for success.
Lisa’s consultative and solutions based approach to real estate has been impressing her clients for 33 years. Lisa is an East Bay native and longtime Danville resident, where she’s been actively involved in the community while raising her two children. DRE#01111126
By Alicia Gee, SRVEF Project Manager | Photos provided by Alicia Gee
Walk, run, roll, or stroll with friends, family, neighbors, teammates, and colleagues in support of our schools at the 41st Run for Education 5K/10K/Mini Run/Friendship Run + Expo on Sunday, October 13, 2024 at 2700 Camino Ramon, San Ramon. Don’t miss out on all the fun - a kids’ zone complete with inflatable games, face painter, balloon artist, photo booth, live entertainment, snacks, giveaways, and more!
Get your little superheroes ready. Our Mini Run is perfect for “mini runners” ages 2-6. Also, join us for our Friendship Run for participants with special needs and their supporters. Both Mini and Friendship Run participants will receive a signature cape, shirt, medal, and post-race treats.
By participating, you are helping to raise needed funds for our local public schools. Proceeds have funded:
• Hands-on science kits
• Elementary school maker spaces
• Musical instruments
• Art supplies
• Science projects
• Technology
• School libraries
• Teacher grants for all levels, and more!
For more information and to register or volunteer, visit srvef.org/the-run
By Stephanie Seaberg, Resident since 2010
Fall has finally arrived, and I’m here to celebrate all things October. Cozy sweaters, campfires, and pumpkin flavored everything! It is my belief that people tend to shy away from making panna cotta because they think it’s a complicated dessert that is hard to prepare. But the truth is it’s one of the quicker desserts that I make. I mean… not to offend my Italian ancestors, but it’s just fancy Jell-O. There, I said it. I personally love this dessert because it is a nice change from the heaviness of pie and cake. It’s light, creamy and silky. The perfect compliment to a heavy autumn dinner. Happy Halloween, my spooky little witches.
Pumpkin Panna Cotta with Coconut Rum Whipped Cream Serves 2-3
Time: 15-20 minutes, plus chill time
You will need;
• 1 C. whole milk
• 2 ¼ teaspoons gelatin powder
• 1 C. heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 C. pumpkin puree
For the whipped cream;
1 C. heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons white coconut rum 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Putting it together;
• 1/2 C. brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
dissolves. Pour pumpkin panna cotta into serving glasses and chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. The texture should be firm to the touch, but a little wobbly when shaken. For the whipped cream, blend the whipped cream, rum and powdered sugar in a medium size bowl with an electric mixer until thick. Top the panna cotta with whipped cream right before serving.
Using a small bowl, mix the cold milk and gelatin powder and set it aside for 5 minutes until it absorbs the milk. Meanwhile, in a small pot, whisk together the whipping cream, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon and pumpkin pie spices over medium heat. Bring this mixture to a low simmer. Once small bubbles start forming at the surface, stir in the bloomed gelatin and milk mixture until it completely
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.
By Maria Herrera, Public Relations Manager, Aracely Lounge
Aracely Lounge, the newest gem in Downtown Danville, is thrilled to announce the launch of its seasonal brunch menu, perfect for gathering with family and friends in a vibrant and inclusive setting. With its versatile private event space and a warm, dog and kid-friendly environment, Aracely Lounge is excited to add to the bustling Downtown Danville food scene for unforgettable meals and memorable moments.
Brunch Menu Highlights
Aracely Lounge’s brunch menu features a delicious array of options designed to cater to every palate. Guests can indulge in everything from classic dishes with a contemporary twist to innovative creations made with locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include:
• Avocado Toast: Freshly smashed avocado on artisanal bread, topped with pickled matsutake mushrooms, red onion, lime relish, tahini sauce, and smoked salmon
• Egg in a Hole: Fried eggs nestled in a thick cut sourdough slice, topped with roasted pork belly, carmody cheese, arugula and caramelized shallots
• Olive Oil Waffles: Light and fluffy waffles served with roasted apricots and whipped strauss yogurt
For those seeking a lighter fare, the menu also offers a range of vibrant salads and fresh juices. Brunch is served every weekend from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with a fun selection of craft cocktails and gourmet espresso coffee drinks.
In addition to its brunch offerings, Aracely Lounge boasts a stylish, indoor + outdoor, private event space ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration, corporate gathering, or intimate wedding reception. The space can be customized to fit the theme and size of your event, with a dedicated team on hand to ensure every detail is perfect. From personalized menus to bespoke decor, Aracely Lounge provides a sophisticated backdrop for your special moments.
Families and pet owners will feel right at home at Aracely Lounge. The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere is designed with kids and dogs in mind. A special kid’s menu features fun and nutritious options, while our outdoor patio is a pet-friendly haven where four-legged friends are welcomed with treats and plenty of water. Our space is thoughtfully designed to ensure a comfortable experience for guests of all ages and furry companions.
Aracely Lounge is a welcoming, laid back dining destination located in the heart of Downtown Danville. The menu features a range of dishes that reflect California’s diverse culinary landscape, often with a focus on fresh, simple preparations that highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients. Aracely Lounge strives to offer an welcoming experience for every guest. Whether you’re joining us for a leisurely
brunch, meeting friends for dinner, hosting a private event, or simply enjoying a family outing, Aracely Lounge is dedicated to creating memorable experiences.
The chef-owner, Linda Edson, comes from a background of multiple culinary influences, which inspires the dishes she creates. Born in Argentina to French-American parents, Linda’s life has been a vibrant blend of cultures and cuisines. Growing up in a bustling household with 15 siblings, she learned early on that cooking wasn’t just a skill—it was a way to bring people together, create memories, and bring connection.
At just 17, Linda left her family in Mexico City to study culinary arts in San Francisco, while living with her uncle and aunt in Danville. Her passion for cooking drove her to explore the fine dining world in New York, Kansas City, Napa and eventually brought her back to the Bay Area. After years of hard work, dedication, and opportunities in the culinary world—culminating in the opening of her first restaurant on Treasure Island in San Francisco—Linda returned to Danville where she always dreamed of opening a space.
On Prospect Avenue, she found the perfect spot to turn that dream into reality. Welcome to Aracely Lounge, a place where Linda hopes guests can feel welcome, celebrate the big and small moments and find connection within the community. From the vibrant flavors of Argentina to the classic finesse of French cuisine, Aracely Lounge offers a menu crafted with curiosity, love, and some whimsy.
We hope you join us on our journey here in the Danville community. Your table is waiting!
For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.aracelylounge.com or call 925- 392-5717. Follow us on social media for the latest updates and special offers.
By Anne Angstenberger, Resident since 2006
By Warren Howard, President, Danville Oaks Rugby
The Oaks Rugby Football Club consists of six age groups from U8’s through High School. Players are trained in the techniques and strategies required for playing the game of Rugby with the objective of building a solid, fun and competitive base to prepare young athletes for all of their current and future endeavors.
The essential features of Rugby, good sportsmanship and fair play, are key components of the program and irrespective of size, body shape or ability. The Oaks Rugby Football Club is a member of Rugby NorCal and USA Youth & High School Rugby. These governing bodies set policies and procedures for participation in all competition activities.
Our home field is located at Diablo Vista Park at 1000 Tassajara Ranch Dr, Danville, CA 94526. Visit https://www.danvillerugby.com for more information.
By Christina Dalton, MS, PPS, PCC, EYH Life Coach
In October the University of California application process opens its short window for applying to 9 top public universities in California. The UC system has the most prestigious universities that this country has to offer. And though there are 9 campuses that undergraduates may apply for, the ability to enter any of these campuses can be very challenging. The top three campuses, Cal Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego, have acceptance rates less than 11% of all applicants. To enter any of the campuses, the applicant must have:
1. Top competitive grades with success through a challenging curriculum that includes either AP classes or a rigorous IB curriculum.
2. An extracurricular list of achievements that demonstrates passion and success over the last four years or more.
3. Essays that tell the applicant’s story of their ability to overcome barriers, demonstrate their passions, and showcase the rigor to be successful in the colleges they apply for and beyond.
Of course, if your child is not a senior, EYHCoach can help your student in all three categories. At this point, if your student is a senior, the only part of this formula that the student still has control over are the essays. Your child will be choosing 4 prompts of 350 words or less out of 8 essays. This is the opportunity to highlight who they are and the ability to demonstrate why they should be chosen over thousands of other applicants. To be successful, the applicant needs to tell their genuine story. Their story is about showing, not telling. The following factors should be included in the formula:
1. Think about why you want the readers to know your story?
2. How does your story demonstrate perseverance, and a lesson that highlights a growth minded individual?
3. How is your story unique against the other 21,000 students who may want your campus?
4. Finally, what have you learned and what will you offer the university to continue your journey?
As the applicant writes, keep in mind that the reviewers read hundreds of essays every day. If they can offer this essay 5 to 10 minutes of their time, that is a plus. The readers have been hooked into who you are and who you will be at the University of California.
As the applicant creates their story, the prompt should demonstrate growth and quantitative results. The essay may take the reader on a journey through solid research, a sport or club that went beyond because of the applicant’s leadership, a situation where the student failed but then proceeded to demonstrate lessons learned and how those lessons have been applied and will be applied in college. The prompts should be personal, connectable, and factual. And whatever the student does, do not use artificial intelligence to write the essay.
This should feel daunting because it is. EYH Coaching provides the partnership to explore and bring out the passion for this application process. It’s not too late to contact EYH Coaching services to empower your child’s story.
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.
