Danville Living CA August 2020

Mailed Directly to West Danville Residents and Published Online

Danville LIVING CA

Meet the Millers A Downtown Dream

Photo by Kim Lind Photography

AUGUST 2020

Table of Contents Letter to Residents

03

Expert Contributors List

04

Meet the Millers A Downtown Dream

06

ARF Adoption Stars

08

Real Estate Statistics

09

Calendar of Events

10

Look Younger for Longer

12

Water... And Then Water Some More

14

Meet the Pets of the Month: Russell and Sunny

15

Grrrreat to See You Again!

16

Mid-Year Is a Good Time to Fine-Tune Your Finances

17

Money-Wise Design: Where to Save and Splurge

18

4th Annual Invest in Hope Golf Tournament

19

Tee it Up: Staying Social while Distancing on the Course

20

Time for Art!

22

Housing For Our New Normal

23

Gardening with California Native Plants.

24

How to Make an Epic Cheeseboard

27

Asparagus Salad

28

4th Of July Virtual Parade and Danville Car Parade Join Forces

29

Engagement Ring Myths Debunked

30

Cover Article

Pet Adoption Corner

Now Open

Expert Contributor

Beginning June 13

th

Weekends only by appointment Facemasks and social distancing will be required. Call for details.

Expert Contributor Pet of the Month

• 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...

In Our Own Backyard

Expert Contributor Expert Contributor Charity Spotlight

Tee Time

Kid Corner

Expert Contributor Gardening Club

Experience World of Nature Coming Soon in 2020

Food and Fun

Cooking Corner

Community Fun

3700 Blackhawk Plaza Cir, Danville, CA www.blackhawkmuseum.org • 925-736-2277 2

Expert Contributor

AUGUST 2020

Hi Neighbors!

Publication Team Publisher:

Jo Peek, Danville Resident since 2014 Content Coordinator: Alexandra Sullivan, Resident since 2017 Designer: Emily Lund Jo Peek

Contributing Photographer: Kim Lind Photography

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

The heat is here and I am personally loving it! We’re busy soaking up the last schedule-free weeks of summer and at the same time, mentally preparing for the unknown of “what’s next.”

In this issue of Danville Living CA you will meet Kristen and Chase Miller. This sweet duo will melt your heart with their love and determination to live their best lives. We also have expert articles to educate and help you in a myriad of topics.

If you have a story to share, or an idea to include in the next issue of Danville Living CA, send me an email - asullivan@bestversionmedia.com. I love hearing from neighbors and am dedicated to telling your stories!

See you around town!

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.

Alexandra Sullivan Content Coordinator

DANVILLE LIVING CA 3

Expert Contributors

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

Arboriculture Atlas Tree Service Inc. Steven Duncan 925-687-3631 atlastreeservice@atlastreeservice.com www.atlastreeservice.com

Steve Duncan is the manager for Atlas Tree Services and has been working for the company since 1989. He has been a Certified Arborist since 1997, specializing in helping homeowners and developers throughout the Bay Area with understanding the health and impact of the trees on their lands.

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.

AAA San Ramon 925-314-2600 www.aaa.com/housemanager

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.

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.

Remodeling

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.

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.

Casey Howard Designs, Inc. Casey Howard (925) 725-4223 Info@caseyhowarddesigns.com caseyhowarddesigns.com

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

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

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

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

Find us online DanvilleLivingCA 4

AUGUST 2020

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DANVILLE LIVING CA 5

Resident Feature

Resident Feature is proudly sponsored by Syntero Group

Meet the Millers A Downtown Dream

By Alexandra Sullivan, Resident since 2017

A

s far as mother-son duos go, it would be a tough task to find a pair as adventurous, generous, and passionate as Kristen and Chase Miller. Just take a look at any of their amazing family pictures - sledding in Tahoe, ATV riding over sand dunes, Disney, the beach: this pair packs a punch!

Kristen is a lifelong Danville resident who moved here when she was 5 years old. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology and minored in Criminology at the University of Utah.

For the last 18 years of a 25 year career in the Title Insurance Industry, Kristen has worked with Fidelity National Title. Of her position, she says “I love my job and my clients. We are a community that gives back whenever possible. I am very proud of this group of professionals...” And the company loves her back!

Two years ago Kristen was inducted into the Fidelity National Title Hall of Fame after receiving the President’s Club recognition 18 years in a row (that’s every. single. year. she’s worked there!)

That’s not the only organization that’s recognized her hard work.

“I have also been honored with the Affiliate of the Year Award from both the Contra Costa Association of Realtors and the Women’s Council of Realtors.”

After living in a few different neighborhoods around Danville, Kristen and Chase have settled into a dream spot right downtown. They have a 2-year-old Shih Tzu named Bailey who clocks in at a whopping 6 pounds, “We call her our 75 pound German Shepherd when she tries to sleep in one of our beds. She always ends up taking over most of the bed.” For the Millers, walks on the Iron Horse Trail are often, browsing through downtown shops is a favorite activity, and eating at all the Danville restaurants has forged great friendships with other locals.

Eleven-year-old Chase is a student at San Ramon Valley Christian Academy, at Community Presbyterian Church. No doubt Mom’s description of him is the best, “Chase is truly the sweetest boy you could ever meet. His smile and laugh fills the room, and his friends call him the nicest kid in school. Adults/teachers use the same words when describing him. He just has a way about him.” During this shelter-in-place reopening phase, Chase and his friends have been writing messages of hope on rocks. They leave them around town to “hopefully make people smile when they come across

them.” Chase is a die-hard Green Bay Packers fan - who was even able to meet Aaron Rodgers in February at the Pebble Beach proam. Cementing her title as “World’s Coolest Mom,” Kristen surprised Chase with a day off from school and took him down the coast to meet his idol. Their story was even picked up by local and national media outlets! “[It] will go down as one of the most epic days of both of our lives.”

Following closely behind his love for football are a multitude of other hobbies. Chase is on the Junior Tennis team at Diablo Country Club. He loves hiking, bowling, biking, and golf. Kristen enjoys golfing as well, and has been trying to get out on more hikes during these days spent at home. Additionally, she has this to say of her son, “I am also proud that Chase is always happy to help with donation drives from our church and different organizations.” Kristen’s involvement in various organizations surely provides an excellent example for Chase.

While volunteering at SRVCA, Kristen is able to practice her passion, photography. She’s the go-to camera for all of her friends’ and families’ parties and loves that her hobby is able to help in

6

AUGUST 2020

a bigger way at the Danville Children’s Guild, where she now serves as the Social Media Chair and photographer. “I am extremely proud to be a member of this amazing organization of women that volunteer their time and talents to raise money for Contra Costa County charity organizations that benefit children. Last year we raised $97,000 for NAMI of CCC. We are hopeful we will be able to have our largest fundraiser that happens at Diablo Country Club every fall.” When not working, volunteering, or adventuring with her son, Kristen enjoys being a part of a local book club with about 25 other women. They live in neighborhoods across Danville and rotate hosting duties each month. This is not your typical “read and discuss” type of club, this one is philanthropic, lively, and nothing short of a great time, every time.

For this fun-loving family, any chance to escape to the beach is one they take. They’ve been boogie boarding, horseback riding, and more at places like Avila Beach and every couple of years they take a multi-generational trip to Hawaii with Kristen’s

parents who still live in Danville. They’ve also gone zip-lining through the mountains around San Luis Obispo and up to Tahoe for friend and family trips.

Of course the Millers miss the hustle of downtown in the summertime, but like us all, they hope for the health, well-being, and safe return of every Danville restaurant, boutique, and business. As a final family sentiment, Kristen shares, “Live, Love, Laugh hangs from our wall, but being kind and being happy is what I would like my son and me to always be.” Thank you for being a part of our community, Chase and Kristen.

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

Caribou

ARF Adoption Stars Submitted by ARF Looking for a furry friend during this trying time? Good news — ARF is now offering a no-contact virtual adoption process! If you see an animal you’re interested in on our website, just fill out an online inquiry form. Once your inquiry has been received, you will be added to our virtual adoption queue.

Two-year-old Caribou is a striking fellow who is looking for his one true love. This active guy would enjoy days filled with hiking and exploring the outdoors. Even adult dogs can learn new things and Caribou is no exception.

He is a fast learner who looks forward to earning treats while polishing up his sit, down, and stay training!

Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Wednesday & Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 pm Saturday & Sunday.

Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arflife.org, or call (925) 256-1ARF.

The adoption fee for puppies (<6 months) is $350, for adult dogs is $250, and senior dogs (7+ years) and special needs dogs are 50% off the adoption fee.

8

Manny

Six-year-old Manny loves everyone! This chill dude just wants to hang out by your side, enjoy some petting, and meow at you about how wonderful his day was. He is the sweetest guy you’ll ever meet. He’s happy all the time and shows it by kneading and making biscuits with his feet. If you’re looking for an outgoing yet laid back cat, come meet Manny! This delightful gentleman will be your best buddy in no time. Manny has IBD, and might need to receive a steroid or other immune modulating medication for the rest of his life. He may do well with cat friendly dogs.

The adoption fee for kittens (<6 months) is $150, for adult cats is $100, $25 off each for multiple cats/kittens, and senior cats (7+ years) and special needs cats are 50% off the adoption fee.

AUGUST 2020

Real Estate Listings in West Danville Real Estate is proudly sponsored by Gatti Real Estate Addresses in Bold are Seller’s/Buyer’s represented by Ron and Joe Gatti | 7/10/20

Active Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

Active Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

Ilo Ln Podva Rd Hardy Ct Clipper Hill Rd Verona AVE

Railroad Ave $1,549,000 Camino Amigo Court $1,595,000 Sorrento Ct $1,749,000 Patricks Pl $1,778,500 Verona Ave $1,888,000

$510,000 $595,000 $1,165,000 $1,425,000 $1,525,000

1012 1094 1698 2040 2003

2 2 3 3 3

1 1 2 2 2

Pending Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

Garden Creek $599,000 1090 Westfield Cir $800,000 1788 Elworthy Ranch Dr $929,000 1752 River Rock Ln $995,000 1375 River Rock Lane $1,049,000 1544 El Portal $1,089,000 1480 La Gonda Way $1,175,000 1495

2 3 3 3 3 3 3

1 2 2 2 2 2 2

Sold Listings Street List Price Sold Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths Ilo Ln Hartley Dr Westfield Cir

$515,000 $595,000 $769,000

$515,000 $585,000 $769,000

1012 1207 1408

2 2 2

1 2 2

1383 2184 2024 2065 2896

2 4 3 4 4

2 2 2 2 3

Pending Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths Meadowside Pl $1,439,000 3345 5 Las Barrancas Dr $1,495,000 1956 5 Rio Del Ct $1,699,000 2365 4 Verona $1,800,000 2505 4 440 Montcrest Pl $2,000,000 3133 4 Sonora Ave $2,200,000 2430 3 318 Cordell Dr $2,695,000 3504 4

4 2 3 3 2 2 4

Sold Listings Street List Price Sold Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths River Rock Ln $950,000 $935,000 River Rock Ln $999,900 $1,000,000 Winfield Ln $1,125,000 $1,100,000

1375 1492 2255

2 3 4

2 2 3

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

Pending in Westside Danville As Danville natives, we know Danville and the San Ramon Valley Coming Soon 573 Verona Ave, Danville Asking Price: $1,495,000 | Call for Details

440 Montcrest Place, Westside Danville 4 Beds | 2 Full Baths + 2 Partial Baths | 3,133 Sq Ft 1.6 Estate Acre Lot | $2,000,000 As Is 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

August

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Sat., Aug. 15

Makers Market on the Plaza

@Broadway Plaza A highly curated marketplace of local makers and artisans, located at the gorgeous Broadway Plaza (Between Starbucks and True Food Kitchen). Shop from merchants selling US Handcrafted goods such as jewelry, handbags, ceramics, glassware, soaps, succulents, candles and more! Enjoy live music and stop into our Broadway Plaza shop (around the corner, in Apple Plaza) for libations and even more locally handcrafted goods.

Time: 11am-4pm https://makersmarket.us

Museum of the San Ramon Valley

Looking for something to do outside while still social distancing? Learn more about the history of the San Ramon Valley. https:// museumsrv.org/historical-markers/

Dive Deep Summer Reading Challenge

@Danville Public Library Dive Deep into Summer Reading, beginning June 6, 2020. Sign up to keep track of your reading and learning. The whole family can get swept away with summer fun and entered in to a drawing for a chance to win prizes including an Xbox One X. Come back often to wrap your tentacles around updated information as it bubbles to the surface.

Also check out the Eugene O’Neill collections online

Register here: https://us02web. zoom.us/webinar/register/ WN_HNCVRq2QQpS6BLgqx9uLwA Time: 10-11am

Every Saturday

Farmers’ Market

@Railroad Ave. Municipal Parking Lot-Downtown Get the freshest seasonal fare at Danville Certified Farmers’ Market. You’ll find fruits and vegetables direct from local farmers, along with fresh-cut flowers, bedding plants and fresh breads. This event is located at Railroad & Prospect Avenues and offers free parking in the adjacent lot.

Time: 9am-1pm More information at www.pcfma.com

Every Monday

Tips for Change Community Fundraising Events

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

Every Friday

Follow Up Friday and Future Focus Business Meeting

@Online via Zoom With the COVID-19 pandemic creating, almost daily, changes to both our general and business communities The Town of Danville is partnering with the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce to provide a weekly platform to share updates as to what has transpired over the previous week (CARES Act, Shelter In Place, Essential Business Designations, County Health Services Declarations, Economic Development, etc.). Further, to assist with visioning, as we look forward to what resources and actions will need to be taken today, to prepare for our current and future recovery.

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Save the Date Sep. 11th - Oct. 11th

San Ramon Valley Run For Education Goes Virtual

@Anywhere and Everywhere A virtual run is a race where you can run, jog, walk or roll for the distance of your choosing.

Whether on the road, trail, treadmill or track, you pick the finish line. Complete a virtual 1K (Friendship or Mini Run), 5K, 10K, or create one of your own. Should you choose to time yourself, you can upload the results and even print a certificate of completion! Earn money for your school!

Simply register for the event and you are in! https://www.srvef.org/ The-Run-For-Education/Race-Information AUGUST 2020

DANVILLE LIVING CA 11

Expert Contributor

Look Younger for Longer

By Dr. Stephen Ronan, MD FACS, Blackhawk Plastic Surgery & MedSpa

A

frequent concern I hear is, “Dr. Ronan, why do I look tired all the time even though I get plenty of sleep?”.

The answer is simple. During the normal aging process, our faces age in different ways, including: 1. Topical changes in skin tone (sun spots, freckles, rosacea, wrinkles, etc.) can make us look more aged, 2. Despite the fact that we seem to gain fat everywhere we don’t want it, we lose normal healthy fat in our faces (volume loss), and 3. increased skin laxity due to loss of elasticity. The combination of increased laxity along with volume loss further accentuates “dark circles” and is also responsible for the descent of the cheek and the appearance of jowls. The loss of elasticity and time plays a role in the appearance of frown lines, forehead furrow and crow’s feet.

etc.). We choose the best type based on where it will be injected (thin and soft for lips, thick and bulky for cheekbones). The unifying theme of dermal fillers is that they “fill in” areas that have lost volume to create a smoother, more youthful, or more enhanced and defined appearance. In addition to filling in areas of volume loss where depressions and creases may be forming, dermal fillers can also be used to augment or enhance lips, cheekbones, or the chin.

Dermal fillers, on average, create results that can last for about six months, although there is some variance between different types of fillers. Sometimes patients may opt to combine dermal fillers with Dysport or other procedures for a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation result.

Dysport is simple protein that is injected into a muscle creating weakness.

Muscle action is what causes the wrinkles of frown lines, forehead furrow and crow’s feet (smile lines). Look in the mirror and make these expressions to see the muscles at work. By precisely (and temporarily) weakening these muscles, we can soften the expression and reduce or eliminate wrinkles.

All of these factors as well as time work together to give the appearance of fatigue and aging. Fortunately, there are several non-surgical options that can address these issues and help yield a more youthful appearance, including dermal fillers, injections of neurotoxins like Dysport, and other facial treatments and procedures.

Injections of Dysport and dermal fillers take just minutes to administer and don’t require any downtime afterwards for recovery which makes them easy to fit into just about anyone’s schedule. Most of our patients have memberships for injectables. The procedure and frequency are chosen by the patient in consultation with the doctor. Besides a discount, the payments are made monthly instead of all at once. Our members also get other perks and are first in line for new products and procedures.

Dermal fillers are a popular non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatment that are administered via injection to reduce lines, creases and areas that appear “sunken-in.” A family of fillers, such as Restylane, has several formulations of the same material (thick, thin,

If you are interested in learning more about how dermal fillers, Dysport and other injectables, can help improve your appearance, please call our office at 925.736.5757. We can either explain the various options and procedures over the phone, and/or schedule an in-person visit or virtual consultation from the comfort of your home.

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AUGUST 2020

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DANVILLE LIVING CA 13

Expert Contributor

Water... And Then Water Some More

By James Steven Duncan, Certified Arborist, ISA WE-3540A, Atlas Tree Service Inc.

I

nevitably, during the months of August and September we get many calls about Redwood trees. This time of year their leaves will be more yellow and brown compared to other types of trees. Twenty-five to thirty-five years ago when Danville was experiencing a major population growth spurt, planting Redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) was very popular (I personally planted my share). These trees are native to the fog belt along the Pacific coast and are often called Coast Redwoods. It is on the coast that fog condenses on the leaves, drips off and soaks the surrounding soil. Danville is more an arid savannah and for Redwoods to really thrive here they need a lot of extra water. A nice foggy morning everyday from May to October would be best, but if not they need regular irrigation. The trees you see doing well are in well-watered lawns and flower beds. In picture A, the trees with the dense, dark green foliage are receiving regular irrigation. In picture B, the tree is in a field with only seasonal rain water. As you can see it struggles compared to trees with regular watering.

Healthy Redwoods produce prodigious amounts of litter. Where it is feasible, it is best to leave it on the ground under the trees. This natural mulch will help retain moisture in the soil, reduce soil compaction, moderate soil temperature, and add organic matter back into the soil. In my opinion it looks better than the shiny black or red stuff you can buy.

So back to the yellow and brown leaves this time of year. It is hot, it is dry and even with the routine water they may be getting, they will often show some stress. Some additional water with soaker hoses or a spiky thingy, I think the real name is: “Deep Root Irrigator” will be helpful. The deep root irrigator is simply a pointed tube you attach to a hose and work it into the soil about 15-18’ with the water running slowly. Place it about half way between the trunk and the drip-line or edge of the canopy and read a chapter in a book. Move it out to the drip-line and read another chapter. Move it in and out around the tree and, depending on the size and location, try to get 6 to 10 sets about every 2-3 weeks.

If you have a Monterey Pine (another coastal tree) irrigate routinely May through October. This is the most important thing you can do to protect against Bark Beetles. Another tree I see that often perks up with some water is one commonly called a Southern Magnolia. These should have a dense canopy of large glossy green leaves. If the leaves are small and sparse get your “spiky thingy” and a book and it should improve. Keeping trees healthy is the best defense against pathogens that may try to attack your trees.

If you are not sure about the water requirements of a particular plant in this area, check out The Sunset Western Garden Book. It is

Picture A

A healthy Redwood tree

Picture B

This Redwood needs more water

an excellent resource. The deep root irrigator is sold at most nurseries as well as hardware and home improvement stores in the area.

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)

14

AUGUST 2020

Pet of the Month

Meet the Pets of the Month:

Russell and Sunny!

By Rhonda DeMoss, Resident since 2011

R

ussell (4 yrs old - Shepard/husky mix) and Sunny (7 yrs old - Chihuahua/Jack Russell mix) are both beloved and friendly Rescue Pups.Sunny was adopted in Danville at the (now closed) Danville Pet Store, and Russell in Dublin at Pet Smart during an adoption event.They have grown to be best friends. Russell has a lot of energy - he’s still a goofy puppy! Sunny is more mellow and thinks she’s a big tough dog. The two look forward to their daily walks, rides in the car and always want to do anything the family does. They also enjoy trips to Home Depot. It’s not unusual to find the pair throughout the day treating themselves to a nice nap.

They are reliable at guarding their house and greeting the delivery driver or landscaper with a round of ferocious barking. The trails in Danville make for a great adventure for them to go on, along with the dog park at Hap Magee. They keep the family active and we really enjoy their companionship and unconditional love.

DANVILLE LIVING CA 15

In Our Own Backyard

Grrrreat to See You Again!

By Nancy Clark, Resident since 1986 and Linda Clark

S

ince the Oakland Zoo’s closure on March 17, the animals and staff have been anxiously awaiting your return. To be perfectly honest, some animals didn’t notice, but others clearly miss you. In particular, the monkeys and bears love to see you and play off your visits.

Like many families and businesses, it has been a very long and scary few months.

We know we are not “out of the woods” yet, but with the support of the State, Alameda County Board of Supervisors and the Alameda County Public Health Agency the Oakland Zoo recently received permission to reopen safely.

Many of you saw or read the recent media about the Zoo’s situation. Yes, we are financially stretched, but between the diligent planning from our awesome Zoo Leadership and the support from our amazing community we are working hard “to weather the storm.” In truth, we felt a bit like Sally Field, “…I can’t deny the fact that you like me…” We love our community and know they love us, but the recent outpouring of support and donations have been nothing less than stunning.

We certainly needed that support (and continue to need it). With 175 species and more than 750 animals, the cost to feed, care, protect the animals and maintain the facilities is approximately $1.2m/month. (Can you imagine buying, storing and preparing 20,000 lbs. of meat and produce every month?) To compound the situation, the revenue we make April – August supports the Zoo through the deficit months of September – March.

Since we get very little government financial support, the nonprofit Zoo depends almost exclusively on visitor revenue and donations. Consequently, we are ecstatic to be open.

Plus, the need is bigger than us. The Zoo also supports wildlife conservations programs all over the world. We support

programs such as jaguar protection and research in Panama, elephants in Kenya, the Cotton-top Tamarin in South America, and many more. We partner with conservation groups to rebuild endangered species, like the American Bison, Mountain Yellow-Legged Frog and Puerto Rico Crested Toad. Also, we provide wildlife care and rescue for orphaned and/or injured animals. In fact, many of our zoo animals were rescued and would have been euthanized had we not existed (e.g., our four grizzly bears, three mountain lions, and three tigers, among many others).

In addition to global conservation support, animal welfare, education, and advocacy, the pandemic brought to light how much the Zoo contributes to the emotional well-being of our community.

We provide an environment for people of all ages to visit, enjoy the outdoors, learn about animal conservation – especially as a safe place to de-stress a bit.

We hope you visit the Zoo, just be aware that a few things will be different: •

•

• • • • • • •

You must make a reservation via purchasing your ticket online (www. oaklandzoo.org) good for only a specific day and time period Admissions will be limited to 2500 guests/day about 1/3 of the Zoo capacity Face coverings will be required Social distancing will be required Sanitation stations available throughout the Zoo Indoor areas and enclosed exhibits will be closed Adventure Landing (rides) and play areas will be closed Restaurant/cafes will follow County guidelines The gondola (to access the California Trail), bathrooms and other contact surfaces will be sanitized regularly throughout the day

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As we mentioned in our June article, our family started the Zoo in 1922. The Zoo has survived the Great Depression, WWII, etc. and with the support of the community we are confident that it will survive this horrific pandemic. If sixyear-old Andy Soulard (she started a fundraiser on Facebook that raised over $188,000 for the Zoo) is any indication, we have no doubt that the Oakland Zoo will be here for many years to come!

For more information about the Zoo, please go to www.oaklandzoo.org.

AUGUST 2020

Expert Contributor

Mid-Year Is a Good Time to Fine-Tune Your Finances

By Matt Forrey, RBC Wealth Management, Resident since 2009 and James Carbonell, RBC Wealth Management, Resident since 2004

T

he first part of 2020 was rocky, but there should be better days ahead. Taking a close look at your finances may give you the foundation you need to begin moving forward. Mid-year is an ideal time to do so, because the planning opportunities are potentially greater than if you waited until the end of the year.

Renew Your Resolutions At the beginning of the year, you may have vowed to change your financial situation, perhaps by saving more, spending less, or reducing your debt. Are these resolutions still important to you? If your income, expenses, and life circumstances have changed since then, you may need to rethink your priorities.

While it may be difficult to look at your finances during turbulent times, review financial statements and account balances to determine whether you need to make any changes to keep your financial plan on track.

Take Another Look at Your Taxes Completing a mid-year estimate of your tax liability may reveal planning opportunities. You can use last year’s tax return as a basis, then factor in any anticipated adjustments to your income and deductions for this year.

Check Your Retirement Savings If you’re still saving for retirement, look for ways to increase retirement plan contributions. For example, if you receive a pay increase this year, you could contribute a higher percentage of your salary to your employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a 401(k), 403(b), or 457(b) plan. If you’re age 50 or older, consider making catch-up contributions to your employer plan. For 2020, the contribution limit is $19,500, or $26,000 if you’re eligible to make catch-up contributions. If you are close to retirement or already retired, take another look at your retirement income needs and whether your current investment and distribution strategy will provide enough income.

Read About Your Insurance Coverage What are the terms of your homeowners, renters, and auto insurance policies? How much disability or life insurance coverage do you have? Your insurance needs can change; make sure your coverage has kept pace with your income or family circumstances.

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.

Check your withholding, especially if you owed taxes or received a large refund. Doing that now, rather than waiting until the end of the year, may help you avoid a big tax bill or having too much of your money tied up with Uncle Sam.

RBC Wealth Management does not provide tax or legal advice. All decisions regarding the tax or legal implications of your investments should be made in connection with your independent tax or legal advisor.

Review Your Investments

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

Review your portfolio to make sure your asset allocation is still in line with your financial goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk.

Look at how your investments have performed against appropriate benchmarks, and in relationship to your expectations and needs.

Changes may be warranted, but be careful about making them while the market is volatile.

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© 2020 RBC Wealth Management, a division of RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC. All rights reserved.

DANVILLE LIVING CA 17

Expert Contributor

Money-Wise Design: Where to Save and Splurge

Photography by SEN Creative/ Lauren Andersen

By Casey Howard, Casey Howard Designs

I

n a perfect world, I’d splurge on everything. More is more, right? I kid. Here in reality, I take a more grounded, balanced approach to design. The general rule is to spend on daily use spaces and save on secondary, lower use spaces.

Master Bedroom and Bath: SPLURGE There’s something to be said for making your master suite a sanctuary fit for restoration, relaxation and fireworks. Wink, wink. Investing in these qualities is worth every penny in my book. Splurge on tile that sparks your imagination, the luxurious bathtub to rejuvenate your body and spirit, and quality bedding that makes you smile every time you slip into the sheets.

Secondary Bedrooms and Other Low Use Rooms: SAVE Low use rooms like guest bedrooms and bathrooms are perfect candidates for saving. Lower use means less wear and tear, so affordable furniture or a mid-grade faucet are options that might not stand up over time in a room used daily.

Kitchens: It Depends Kitchens are generally worth the investment. Unless you’re an ‘I use my oven for storage’ type, your kitchen is the workhorse of the home. If the cabinetry requires any structural modification to meet your needs and desires, it’s best to replace. There’s only a worthwhile savings opportunity if painting or changing out doors will achieve the desired result. Beyond cabinets, reworking the layout for maximum efficiency is worth the spend, and great appliances can increase the convenience and quality of your cooking experience.

High-Low for the Win When it comes to furnishings, I love a high-low mix. Splurge on a dining table, but save on chairs. Invest in a high-quality sofa that will stand the test of time. Mix special accessories with affordable ones — unique pieces elevate everything around them.

The art of high-low design is as important in interiors as it is in fashion. It’s a talent and skill I love putting to work for my clients. Ready to take on a renovation or re-furnish your home? I’d love to help you achieve the perfect balance to splurge AND save.

Sharing the scenic view with a new friend 18

AUGUST 2020

Charity Spotlight

4th Annual Invest in Hope Golf Tournament Sponsored by Danville Living CA

J

oin us for the 4th Annual Invest in HOPE, benefiting Veterans through PGA HOPE, on Tuesday, September 15th at Blackhawk Country Club. With the astounding success of the last few years, we’ve found a permanent home at the Lakeside Course, followed by a fabulous Davis Estates Winemaker’s Dinner after golf.

9:30am Registration & Exotic Car Show 11:00am Shotgun Start - 4Person Scramble with Lunch on-course 3:45pm VIP Reception & Cocktails & Live Music 4:30pm Winemaker’s Dinner, Awards, and Raise the Paddle for HOPE Auction

HOPE - Helping Our Patriots Everywhere Since 2015, more than 1,000 veterans have participated in PGA HOPE programming.

• •

88% of Veterans have reported an increased quality of life 100% of Veterans have reported a decrease in their sense of isolation

We are changing and SAVING lives…and we depend on donations and fundraisers such as Invest in HOPE for a major part of our programming budget.

For event details and to register go to https://one. bidpal.net/investinhope2020/welcome What, not a golfer? No worries—join us for the Davis Estates Winemaker’s Dinner and Raise the Paddle for HOPE. We promise you a fun and inspiring evening!

Your participation and support is greatly appreciated

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DANVILLE LIVING CA 19

Tee Time

Tee it Up:

Staying Social while Distancing on the Course

By Lynne Harrosh, Resident since 2008

I

f one doesn’t play golf, they may think of it as an old person’s sport, even a man’s sport. The first mention of “ye golf” was in 1457 when King James II had banned the game because he was attempting to get people to practice archery, which was being neglected.

There has also been a long-time 20th Century “joke” that said the word “GOLF” meant “Gentlemen Only Ladies Forbidden.” Was it a joke or misconception? Not so sure. What I am sure of, is that women

are coming on strong in the world of golf! It is a big business, a billion dollar industry, from women’s clothing and golf fashion to clubs, equipment, and accessories! Women are heading out to the courses in high style, fashion, and athleticism with their fitted women’s graphite top-of-the-line clubs!

You may be taken aback by the pink, floral, or Swarovski Crystal ball markers, but make no mistake, these women are not sissies. There are no gimmies. There are no do-overs. Every stroke counts. They carry their own bag, climb in the sand traps if need be, come to the course fully prepared, and will have every new rule memorized. They play by the book. You putt the ball until it clinks into the cup. They may not hit as far as men, but they are knowledgeable and prepared while their foursome group is in color coordinated and themed outfits.

Women’s golf groups are all the rage. They are run by highly

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AUGUST 2020

organized women that keep scores, dues, come up with various games & themes, host fun tournaments and are happy to learn about you and include you in their group. They are competitive and friendly. During this shelter-in-place/pandemic and time of social distancing, it is heartwarming to be part of a group that welcomes you into a safe, athletic, and friendly outdoor environment while maintaining CDC health and safety protocol. Not only is this a good group to belong to now, but when my mom had been caring for my dad through his cancer in 1998, it was a women’s golf group she had joined that gave her relief from worries, caretaking and focusing on everything but herself. She was welcomed by name, her cart was ready, and she had a group of women to play golf with, even though she was a beginner. She remains friends with those women even now, 22 years later.

This year COVID-19 has put a twist on golf groups by changing games and names to include The Sanitizers & The Quaranteam. COVID-19 or not, women figure things out. My mom’s group is all fun and games with fun events like Viva L’Italia, Scotch on the Rocks, Chinese New Year, Mystery Dinner, Bombay Challenge, Beat the Pro, Cha Cha Cha, Golf Olympics, Final-Final, and Last Dance. Each regular Play Day for the week is broken up into fun games as well. The creativity and fun these women put into the Ladies’ Golf Events is incredible.

Locally, the NCGA, Northern California Golf Association, has clubs with interest groups including firefighters, judges, and doctors and clubs for people in immediate and local areas.

Most private country clubs have Ladies’ Golf Clubs and so do many of the public golf courses.

Ladies, get your girlfriends and your daughters… Get out on that course!

These are public course that have Ladies’ Golf Groups/Clubs:

Playcallippe.com has a Ladies’ Niners’ Group and 18 Hole Golf Group.

Playboundaryoak.com has a Women’s Club.

Laspositasgolfcourse.com has a 18-hole Ladies Club and a Nif-Tee Niners’ Club

Sue Harrosh & IVGCL members on the 18th Hole, Incline Village Championship Course.

June 30, 2020. Still social while social distancing with CDC Health and Safety protocol in place.

“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”

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DANVILLE LIVING CA 21

Kid Corner

Time for Art! Submitted by Parents of the West Side

Lucien O. doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just like one type of art - he likes it all! Check out his amazing drawing and homemade clay figures.

22

AUGUST 2020

Expert Contributor

Housing For Our New Normal

By Janice Jordan, Broker/Associate Compass, Resident since 1998

T

he definition of a home is: “different from a shelter or a house. Home is where your body and mind feels it belongs, protected, loved and welcomed. Home is the place where you share culture and tradition. Home is not simply where we live; it’s a state of mind where you feel most at peace.” Quote by Aanne Ajjamaa If we compare how many hours we spend at home now with before our Shelter-In-Place orders, it would be, in most cases, double.

Our homes now must not only provide us shelter, now they also double as a work place, a home school, and a workout studio. Our new normal is changing the way we live.

If things stay this way, we can contemplate many new options. We can move out of state, somewhere more affordable, buy a larger home with room for a dedicated home office and work out studio, and the kids can each have their own space for distance learning. Maybe we have thought about buying a bigger home locally, with a huge backyard so that the kids can play in the pool or trampoline instead of day camp.

Things are shifting. People are moving out of the big cities where rents are high and population density is a factor. All the cultural aspects of big city life are temporarily non-existent making it easier to move to the suburbs and afford a larger home for less money.

Vacation rental markets have seen huge shifts. High end rental managers say that families are opting for homes on multiple acres in Colorado and grand estates in the Hamptons. This way the family can spread out and enjoy nature with private lakes, docks, beaches and hiking trails without the fear of Covid. The same has been true of owners of AirBnB rentals in remote areas. Places like Tahoe, Mammoth Mountain, and Joshua

Tree have been inundated with second home owners moving in, looking for solitude and access to nature amid the current pandemic.

Our return to normal is taking much longer than all of us expected.

Maybe it’s time to start solidifying those “what if” plans now.....

Compass has realtors nationwide that can help you find your new peace of mind. If you decide to stay local, I’m here to help.

Here are some samples of open space living ......... call me for details.

Janice Jordan is a third generation real estate expert. She has lived in Danville for over twenty years. In her spare time Janice loves to hang out with her daughter Jenna and go on outdoor adventures of all kinds.

DANVILLE LIVING CA 23

Gardening Club

Gardening with California Native Plants.

Save water, add beauty and help nature

By Stefanie Pruegel, Team Member at Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour

T

he San Francisco Bay Area has a Mediterranean climate— generally hot and dry in the summer, mild and wet in the winter.

In Blackhawk, rainfall is 19” per year on average. That’s not much even in a normal year, and dry winters like the last quickly raise drought concerns. Many communities are increasingly embracing “climate appropriate landscaping” with low water plants from regions around the world with similar climate to ours, and of course our own California plants. But there’s a big difference: In addition to being drought tolerant and disease resistant, native plants also provide habitat for California’s pollinators, birds and other wildlife in a way that non-native ornamentals can’t.

Why does wildlife need native plants?

Renowned ecologist Douglas Tallamy has done extensive research on the relationships between native plants and wildlife, particularly birds. His findings illustrate the importance of native plants to birds. He says: “When birds raise their young, they can’t feed them seeds, berries or sugar water. Instead they need insects, especially

caterpillars, and lots of them!” Tallamy found that it takes 6,000 to 9,000 caterpillars to raise a clutch of young chickadees, one of our smallest birds. Yet those caterpillars—hatched from the eggs of butterflies and moths—depend for food on specific, native host plants that they have co-evolved with over millennia. Non-native plants simply can’t sustain those bird-critical insects. Tallamy concludes: “If we have no native plants, we have no caterpillars and that means no birds.”

Consider for example the crepe myrtle, a popular yet non-native tree from Asia. In California it supports not a single type of caterpillar. In contrast, California’s native plum trees are hosts to the caterpillars of over 200 moth and butterfly species. The native plum, Prunus ilicifolia, is among Tallamy’s so-called keystone species—California native plants that support especially high numbers of moth and butterfly species as caterpillar hosts. Other keystone plants include oak, California lilac, flowering currant, manzanita, buckwheat, lupine, California sage and many more.

Our gardens play an important role

One might assume our parks and open spaces offer plenty space for native plants, but with natural habitat lost to development at an alarming rate, there simply aren’t enough wildlands left to sustain nature. Bird populations, for example, have plummeted over the last five decades, with a decline of nearly three billion birds across North America in that time period.

“We are paving over 2 million acres of open space each year,” says Tallamy. “That’s an area the size of Yellowstone.” Lawns, too, cover a huge area of land. Tallamy calculates that in the US, a total of 40 million acres—about the size of Florida—is suburban lawn, which provides no value to wildlife. Traditional, non-native ornamentals like agapanthus, camellia, lantana, oleander and many others don’t support biodiversity either.

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But there’s good news: If we bring native plants into our gardens, we can make up for the lost habitat. We can have beautiful landscapes that are not only decorative but also alive, attracting birds and butterflies for us to enjoy. There are even more rewards: Because so many of California’s native plants are drought tolerant once they’re established, they need far less water than lawns and traditional ornamentals. The chore of mowing disappears, as does the need to haul away grass clippings. Natives also tend to be less prone to disease and pests and don’t require the use of garden chemicals, making them safe for children and pets.

Native plant gardens in the East Bay

It’s not a surprise that gardening with California native plants is 24

AUGUST 2020

growing more popular in the Bay Area and beyond. One of the best ways to see first-hand what native plant gardens look like, get ideas, and learn how to begin transforming your own garden is the “Bringing Back the Natives” Garden Tour. Held annually in May, the tour features dozens of native plant gardens in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. This year, the tour was conducted virtually over the course of three Sundays and was attended by over 2,300 people.

Among the garden hosts was Maria Sargeant in Danville, who converted her 1,300 square foot front yard from lawn to mostly native plants five years ago. She received $800 in rebates from EBMUD for removing her lawn and has been able to cut water use in half. But the biggest reward for her is watching the wildlife her garden attracts. “I grew up in this house, but it wasn’t until I started to plant natives that I’ve seen so many birds, bees and butterflies, including monarchs,” she says. Maria’s garden is now home to several different species of manzanita and California lilac whose blue blossoms compete for attention with the cheerful orange of her monkeyflowers in spring. Native bees, bumblebees and butterflies are drawn to different types of buckwheat and sages. Between the trees, shrubs and the bird bath that Maria keeps filled with fresh water, birds have all they need to thrive.

In nearby San Ramon, Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour host Lorraine Kalich proves that gardening with native plants doesn’t require special skills and can be very low maintenance. Her beautiful open yard feels lush although it was intentionally designed to survive largely on winter rains and minimal need to prune. “I am not a gardener by nature, so I wanted something natural and inviting for wildlife that didn’t require much upkeep,” she says. Tired of dealing with broken sprinkler heads and using a lot of water, she said good-bye to the lawn and opted instead for the beauty of bunchgrasses, redbuds, hummingbird sage and other hardy natives. California quail are frequent visitors finding shelter and nesting spaces among the bunch grasses, hedges and between boulders that Lorraine interspersed with the plants.

Evelyn Dalton, who has been gardening with native plants for some years, watched the online tour from her home in Blackhawk. She used to have a yard with mostly lawn and few shrubs, maintained by a landscaping service, but Evelyn was frustrated. “With California’s hot and dry summers, the lawn needed an incredible amount of water, and it didn’t even look good,” she recalls. Starting with the edges where the grass was dying, Evelyn took out the lawn little by little, replacing it with drought tolerant California fuchsias, sages, manzanitas, flowering currant and bunch grasses. She’s happy with her choice: “These native plants have made maintenance so much easier, and they bring the garden to life with the wildlife they attract. I now enjoy stepping outside to see what birds, bees and butterflies are visiting.”

Photo credit: Kathy Kramer Cheerful California monkeyflowers frame a birdbath in Maria Sargeant’s garden in Danville.

Photo credit: Kathy Kramer California native blue penstemon, Sulphur buckwheat and golden yarrow in front of a toyon in Lorraine Kalich’s garden in San Ramon.

Photo credit: Mary Cooper Who says native plant gardens can’t be colorful?

In this yard pink flowering currant and California lilac complement a sunflower.

Getting started with native plants

If a complete make-over of your garden feels daunting, you can start integrating California native plants in small steps. For most traditional garden ornamentals there are California natives of similar size that are just as beautiful but offer so much more value to wildlife and tend to be a lot less thirsty. For example, instead of an acacia or Chinese pistache, consider a tall California lilac. Groundcovers like cotoneaster, dymondia and myoporum can be replaced with low growing varieties of manzanita, coyote bush or buckwheats.

For flowering perennials, forego non-native roses, lantana, agapanthus and euryops in favor of the California native rose, lupines, currants, fuchsias or countless varieties of California sages.

The best time to plant any of these is in the fall to take advantage of winter rains to get the new additions established. The coming summer months can be a great time to plan and learn more about gardening with natives. To get started, consider viewing the video recordings of this year’s Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour. Find the YouTube link, along with guidance on native plant choices for the Bay Area, information on Doug Tallamy’s research, lists of landscape designers specializing in California native plant gardens, and more at www.BringingBackTheNatives.net.

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Photo credit: Maria Sargeant A hummingbird drinks nectar from a California manzanita in early spring when few other plants are in flower.

Photo credit: Pam Young Birds like this orange-crowned warbler need caterpillars to raise their young, and only native plants can provide them.

DANVILLE LIVING CA 25

26

AUGUST 2020

Food and Fun

How to Make an

Epic Cheeseboard

By Nicole Schwing, Resident since 2013

H

i there! I’m the gal from Danville Cheese, and the awesome people here at Danville Living CA asked if I would share some of my tips and tricks.

So here goes….

Always start with the freshest ingredients, pick what looks best, smells fresh and has great color!

Step 1. Gather your cheeses

I always do a soft, a hard, an in between and a wild card cheese. The perfect example of this is a triple cream brie, a manchego, a dill Havarti, and my new favorite from our local Trader Joe’s Glacier Wildfire Blue. Arrange the cheese on your board first. The soft can stay whole, the hard cheese should be sliced, a semi soft cheese is great cubed, and crumble that blue cheese up in large chunks to look oh so artisanal.

Step 2. Add your sauce, dip or spread

I love to add interesting glass containers of honey or fig spread or even a savory dip to each board for endless possibilities of pairing.

Step 3. Charcuterie

Any cured meat is fabulous on a board. My go to is an Italian dry salami, an imported prosciutto and hot coppa. Salami is fun to roll up or folded.

Prosciutto looks great loose and ribboned and I lay my coppa flat.

Step 4. Accoutrements

I love to have a bit of fruit on my boards. Right now, stone fruit, berries and figs are at their peak! I also love dried fruit like apricots, cranberries and golden raisins. And don’t forget nuts!! My fav is the honey sesame almonds from TJ’s.

Step 5. Garnish

I’m always grabbing fresh herbs from the garden or edible flowers.

Pomegranate seeds are also a fabulous way to top everything off.

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Finally, add your favorite crackers (mine are Mary’s Crackers) or a fabulous crusty baguette and enjoy friends!

Making cheeseboards gives me so much joy!

I encourage you to give it a try! If you make a board please post it to Instagram and tag me @ danvillecheese.

Stay cheesey Danville, Your gal from Danville Cheese Nicole xx

Nicole Schwing is a west side business owner, wife, and mother of two daughters. Her amazing cheese boards are perfect for any party or get together. Check her out on Instagram, @danvillecheese, to see all the other snack boards she’s created!

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Cooking Corner

Asparagus Salad

By Stephanie Seaberg, Resident since 2010

“What should I make for dinner? It’s too hot to cook.”

This is the most common question I get from friends in the summer time. Nobody wants to turn on the oven when it’s 97 degrees outside. The salad routine can get a little tired in my house. The same salads on rotation can wear anyone out.

Sometimes a great change just requires a switch from spring mix and romaine to something more hearty. A chilled vegetable salad has always been my go-to when I’m just not in the mood for a leafy green. So, this month I’m putting the all mighty asparagus on a pedestal. Asparagus salad is simple, easy and can be made ahead of time. Think of it as a “choose your own adventure” salad. The toppings are literally endless. Once you cook the asparagus, you can dress it up in a dozen different ways. Pair this with a juicy grilled steak or a piece of fish and you will have a meal that is just as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the tongue.

Asparagus Salad Serves: 2-4 People Time: 15 minutes *Can be vegan

You will need:

• 1 pound of Asparagus • 1/4 Cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil • 3 Tbs Balsamic reduction glaze. (You can find this in the gourmet food aisle. I get mine at Trader Joe’s.)

Topping Ideas • • • • • • •

Hard boiled eggs Parmesan cheese Lemon slices Dried cranberries Slivered almonds Blue cheese crumbles Sun dried tomatoes

ice water immediately. This will stop the cooking process and keep the color bright green.

Allow it to cool for 5 minutes and then drain it and place on a dish. Cover and refrigerate it until needed.

When you’re ready to serve, drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper, balsamic glaze and then pile on the toppings. (For the photo, I chose eggs, blue cheese and nuts. There were no leftovers.)

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.

Putting it together

Fill a sauce pan with 3 cups of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Trim the bottoms of your asparagus (About 2 inches) and discard them.

Carefully place the asparagus in the boiling water and cook them for 3 minutes. If your asparagus is very thin, only cook it for 2 minutes. Using thongs, remove asparagus and place in a bowl of 28

AUGUST 2020

Community Fun

4th Of July Virtual Parade and Danville Car Parade Join Forces to Make an Unforgettable Event

By Ricky Helton, Resident since 2004

T

his year’s Kiwanis 4th of July Parade was obviously quite different from years past. In addition to the #4thGoneVirtual parade held online, the community once again rallied together to host a sociallydistanced car parade, with everyone decked out in their Americana glory. Tory Taylor from the Kiwannis did so much work for our community with the virtual 4th of July Parade. Countless hours of work went into including pictures from previous years of 4th of July’s parades. Our car cruises were even included into the July’s 4th tribute, which was very much appreciated.

The cruise was led by former veteran Craig Shotwell on his trike with the Warrior’s Watch riders sticker on his windshield. One of the best things I’ve seen throughout this whole experience is the spirit of community: young and old, of all walks of life. Along the route people were wearing their masks and maintaining the recommended spacing. This event was to show our love for our community and enjoy a moment during troubling times.

We have held this cruise every Sunday for months now. It has always been about our love for Danville, and of course, for nice cars.

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DANVILLE LIVING CA 29

Expert Contributor

Engagement Ring Myths Debunked

By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry and The Forevermark Boutique at Broadway Plaza

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hinking About Proposing? Well, you survived the quarantine together – there’s no time like the present to propose, and we are here to help you navigate the often treacherous waters! Engagement rings are part of cultural tradition in many parts of the world - it’s truly a beautiful thing. People throughout the world celebrate a promise of devotion with fashioned pieces of the earth itself, to be worn and reflected on daily. However, traditions often carry with them some “stowaway” notions, “myths” if you will, added and acquired over the years out of habit or desire for socio-economic parity. Your family at Padis Jewelry is here to give these myths the one-two punch and hopefully lend some peace and confidence to your engagement ring shopping experience.

reason. We care more about WHY you are here than how much you spend. We will help you work within ANY budget to find the perfect ring to start your forever together.

MYTH #1 The Proposal and Ring Should Be a Surprise

MYTH #4 A Traditional Round Diamond is Best

Negative. Relationships are individual things and therefore so are proposals. Assuming you know your intended well enough, you should know if they A. like surprises and B. would like to have a say in the type of ring they’ll be wearing on their finger for the rest of their life. If the answer to BOTH is yes, then consider surprise proposal without a ring (or using a ring stand-in) or starting with a pre-scheduled time for both of you to meet with your trusted family jeweler.

MYTH #2 The Bigger Diamond is the Better Diamond

Nope. Just plain nope. It’s important to remember that a diamond’s overall value is determined using ALL of the 4Cs, not just carat weight. Although size is an important factor in determining the value of a diamond, the cut, color, and clarity are all important: Cut - A diamond’s cut grade is determined by how well it’s facets interact with light as it enters and leaves the diamond. It is also the only factor of the diamond that is controlled by man. Color, clarity, and carat weight are all up to Mother Nature and the natural formation of the crystal. In layman’s terms, a better cut = more sparkle!

Color - Mother Nature makes diamonds in many different colors.

They range from colorless to progressively more yellow and eventually brown. There are also fancy colors such as pink, blue, green, and the rarest of all – red diamonds. Generally, diamonds with more visible color are less expensive, but can also be very appealing to the eye.

Clarity - Diamonds are made from carbon that’s under tremendous heat and pressure deep in the earth. This process can result in clarity characteristics called inclusions. These inclusions can interrupt the reflection of light and some can even be seen with the naked eye, so it’s very important to view diamonds in person as grading reports aren’t detailed enough to show the nuance of each tiny inclusion.

MYTH #3 An Engagement Ring’s Price Should Equal Three Months’ Salary

While we probably all agree that a respectable display of seriousness and commitment should be involved with a proposal, buying a ring worth three months of your salary does not equal a happy marriage. Engagement ring settings and diamonds are available in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges, and it would be a mistake to presume that you must spend “x” amount of money for it to be the “correct” ring. Your team at Padis is not on commission for this

Brilliant round diamonds are certainly the shape most people think of when they think “engagement ring.” However, fancy diamond shapes in engagement rings are becoming more and more popular.

You may find that an oval diamond is appealing because it elongates the finger. Or, you may be drawn to the elegant lines of emerald diamonds. You might love that marquise or pear-shaped diamonds appear to be larger, given that more of the stone shows from the top view (looking down on the diamond). As you shop for your diamond, don’t rule out the fancies!

To take the debunking of this myth one step further, we’d like to point out that an engagement ring does not even have to be a diamond ring. Alternative gemstones such as sapphire, ruby, and emerald (or any stone you want) can easily take the place of a diamond in an engagement ring. Again, it’s a matter of individual style and preference.

MYTH #5 The Jeweler Knows Best

While jewelers can provide you with all kinds of important information regarding a diamond’s 4 C’s, price comparisons, or a setting’s craftsmanship and durability, there is no way a jeweler can know which ring really speaks to you or which ring will best fit your intended’s style. That’s why we take the time to get to know you, find out what you really want, and guide you to that dream ring at a comfortable pace. Before you learn about diamonds, we want to learn about you!

Where did you meet? What do you love about them? What do you do for a living? What is your personal style and how do we choose based on that? Have you been discussing engagement rings or is this a surprise? If you’re not choosing the ring together, we’ll give you our best advice on how to research and find their favorite styles. Our jewelry consultants are here as a resource for you.

The team at Padis Jewelry wants you to know that when you shop with us, you become part of our family! We deeply value your trust and will always provide you with the BEST product, with the BEST service, for the BEST value. Don’t believe the “myths” you might hear about engagement rings - come to Padis Jewelry or visit our Forevermark boutique in Broadway Plaza and you’ll hear the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth when it comes to your engagement ring options! Email us at concierge@padisjewelry. com or visit our website to book your private appointment www. padisjewelry.com.

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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.

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