Danville Living CA January 2021

Mailed Directly to West Danville Residents and Published Online

JANUARY 2021

Danville LIVING CA

Meet the Steinmetz Family: Chase, Amy and Matt Photo by Kim Lind Photography

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JANUARY 2021

Table of Contents

Many

WORLDS One MUSEUM

Letter to Residents

04

Expert Contributors List

05

Meet the Steinmetz Family: Chase, Amy and Matt

06

ARF Adoption Stars

08

Real Estate Statistics

09

Calendar of Events

10

Flowers and Pests

12

My Italian Heritage Project

14

Options for Removing Unwanted Fat

15

New Year’s Beef Stew

16

Top Tips for Fool-proof Veggie Grilling

18

tm

Now Open

Saturdays & Sundays Reserved Tickets Required Available at blackhawkmuseum.org

Cover Article Pet Corner

Expert Contributor

World of Nature Now Open

Adventure Time

Expert Contributor

Cooking Corner

Share Your Skills

Automobile Gallery

A Scarecrow Stroll followed by a Tree Trail

20

Anticipating a Positive 2021

22

Imagine a Community Without Frantic Families

23

Tee it Up in the Desert

25

Ring in the New Year with a New Look!

26

Arts and Culture

Expert Contributor

The Spirit of The Old West

Tee Time

Expert Contributor

Art of Africa

Into China

925-736-2277 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle • Danville, CA We are following all COVID-19 protocols.

DANVILLE LIVING CA 3

Hey 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

Feedback/Ideas/Submissions:

Happy New Year!! Did you make any resolutions? Have you learned anything during 2020 that you are bringing into 2021? Here’s to a year of growth, healing, and happiness!

In this issue you will meet Matt and Amy Steinmetz and their son, Chase. Music and service run deep in this family, and they have so much fun while doing it all! I couldn’t imagine a nicer family to kick off our new year with!

You will also find informational articles from our experts and some fun resident articles from your own neighbors. Each month we are dedicated to bringing you the stories and events that you want to read about. If you have something to share, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re also always looking for our next great cover - so if you know of a person or family that you think would be great, please nominate them!

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. © 2021 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Alexandra Sullivan Content Coordinator

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JANUARY 2021

Expert Contributors

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

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

James S. 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

Casey Howard Interior Design is a full-service boutique interior design studio specializing in residential and hospitality.

Work with us on new construction, large and small scale renovations, and full-scope furnishings projects. CHID’s edgy classic aesthetic is grounded in functionality layered with the unexpected and provocative. Based in the heart of Danville, California, CHID works throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, Napa Valley, Marin County, Silicon Valley, and beyond.

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 Interior Design Casey Howard 925-725-4223 info@caseyhowardid.com www.caseyhowardID.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 Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

DANVILLE LIVING CA 5

Resident Feature

Resident Feature is proudly sponsored by Syntero Group

Meet the Steinmetz Family: Chase, Amy and Matt

By Alexandra Sullivan, Resident since 2017

in Concord, after their son, Chase, was born in 2012, they went on the hunt for that similar, family-oriented vibe, and found it right here! “I fell in love with Danville the second we drove through downtown. And one lunch at Pete’s Brass Rail and Carwash, seeing all of the families enjoying the beautiful, sunny day completely sold us on moving here.

Matt also saw the opportunity to get his name on the wall at Pete’s and has been working hard at that since we moved,” says Amy. Amy left the mortgage industry to stay home with Chase and their two dogs, Annie the Golden Retriever and Opie the Terrier. The whole family loves their two pups and is often seen walking through their neighborhood with them. “We actually call Annie a “broken retriever” because she doesn’t get near water, though she is the sweetest dog ever. Opie, in perfect terrier fashion, rules the roost and loves to let us know anytime anyone dares walk near our house.”

S

ixteen years ago Matt and Amy Steinmetz met at an old sports bar in Walnut Creek. This wasn’t their first encounter though, as Matt later admitted that he saw Amy about six months earlier, but missed the opportunity to actually meet her. In a twist fit for a romantic-comedy, their meet-cute was not as easy as Matt was hoping, “My husband will tell you I refused to dance with him, made fun of him and would not let him buy me a drink. I had also recently changed phone numbers so upon him asking me for my number I had to have my friend give it to him. He was sure it was a fake number...” Alas, like the genre dictates, this story has a happy ending. After weeks of speaking on the phone, they were able to go on an official first date. An engagement in 2006 led to a wedding in October of 2007.

Matt grew up in Texas, by way of Iowa, and later moved to Danville in middle school. Amy is from a small community in Simi Valley, down in Southern California. While living

Volunteering at Montair Elementary, where Chase is in the third grade, Amy has met many other parents and made lots of friends.

“I miss socializing and volunteering at school so much right now, but keeping Chase on task while doing his online learning has kept me busy! The dogs are loving all of the extra attention now that we are home so much!” Both Chase and Amy love reading and bringing everyone together for board games and puzzle solving.

If you recognize Matt Steinmetz’s name, it’s because he is a member of our local Chamber of Commerce, “and Vice President of the local Real Estate Marketing Association that meets each week to promote our local community.” He followed his late father’s footsteps into the mortgage industry after turning his musical abilities from career to hobby. Now Matt continues sharing his love of music with Chase and pushing himself creatively in the kitchen. Help from friends, family members, and countless hours of reading and practicing have given Matt a delicious and relaxing hobby that everyone gets to enjoy. Chase has picked up the musical vibe and the two Steinmetz men practice their various instruments together.

Like all families this year, traveling and general adventuring was derailed. “Covid has definitely slowed the traveling down, but we are living off of our memories of Scotland, Italy, Maui, Mexico, Tahoe,

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JANUARY 2021

etc.” During the summer the Steinmetz family loves to take their trailer camping up the Russian River, the Central Coast, gold country, and any local lakes. This active family does not sit still for very long! This summer gave them the opportunity to tackle honey-do lists, start some DIY and painting projects, and do some more local exploring. They also found some TV programs to entertain everyone, like Lego Masters and Master Chef Jr. Matt and Amy absolutely love the life they’ve formed here in Danville. Their motto, “Above all else, be kind” is straightforward, impactful, and clearly reflected in their everyday interactions. Amy says, “I have worked so hard to surround our family with like-minded people who care about each other, look out for each other, and spread kindness and positivity. And Matt has worked so hard to provide a beautiful home for us, creating experiences for the family and giving me the ability to stay home with Chase.”

The Steinmetzes know that their neighborhood, known for the peacocks strolling about its streets, is going to be the perfect place for their family for many years to come.

So neighbors, if you see Matt, Amy and Chase out walking Annie and Opie, stop and say hello, they would love to meet you!

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 Corner

Mint

ARF Adoption Stars

Loosey

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.

Three-year-old Mint is a charming, sensitive companion. He enjoys training and exploring on walks, but can take a bit of time to gain comfort with people. Due to this, Mint will require an adult only home and would do best in a home with a yard, as apartment living would be too overwhelming. It might take some time to become Mint’s favorite, but he will make it worth your while. He enjoys playing with his stuffed toys, exploring the landscaping and playing Agility games. Mint is a bit more into doing activities than he is in cuddling, but there’s nothing he loves more than a cozy bed.

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.

Five-year-old Loosey is a relaxed and friendly cat who enjoys being pet and cuddled once she warms up to you. Once she lets you into her heart, you’ll discover an affectionate and mellow gal with a loud, rumbling purr.

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.

Stop in and save on AAA House Manager Have questions about AAA House Manager? Wondering if our service is right for you? Our Agents are available and ready to help.

Stop by our San Ramon branch and mention Danville Living to receive 20% off an annual AAA House Manager membership.

Visit our San Ramon branch located at 2435 San Ramon Valley Blvd Ste 5, San Ramon © 2020 AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah. All rights reserved. AAA House Manager is a service provided by AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah.

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JANUARY 2021

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 | 12/10/20

Active Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

Active Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

El Dorado Ave Midland Way Laurel Dr San Ramon Valley Blvd Ashley Cir

$499,900 $525,000 $540,000 $565,000 $694,950

Pending Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

Elsie Dr La Gonda Way 480 Veda Dr Oak View Terrace Kuss Rd

$1,179,000 $1,500,000 $1,850,000 $2,249,000 $2,885,000

Pending Listings Street List Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths

Garden Creek River Rock Ln River Rock Ln Loch Lomond Way

$595,000 $995,000 $1,199,000 $1,399,000

918 Podva Ln Briar Pl Emerald Dr Glendora Cir

$1,399,000 $1,549,000 $2,279,000 $4,109,900

871 1006 800 1114 1283

1090 2014 2104 2390

2 2 2 2 2

2 4 4 3

2 2 1 1 2

1 2 2 2

Sold Listings Street List Price Sold Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths Midland Way Westfield Cir Danville Oaks Winfield Lane River Rock Ln Inman Court

$569,999 $699,950 $839,000 $999,500 $1,050,000 $1,099,000

$555,000 $700,000 $845,000 $978,000 $1,060,000 $1,080,000

1114 1788 1678 1821 1544 2255

2 3 3 3 3 4

1 2 2 2 2 3

1344 1822 2504 3628 3185

2199 3158 3261 4400

4 3 4 4 4

2 2 2 3 4

4 5 5 5

Comin g Soon!

3 3 3 4

Sold Listings Street List Price Sold Price Sq. Ft. Beds Baths Hardy Ct *23 Mary Ct Clipper Hill Rd Entrada Mesa Ocho Rios Dr La Gonda Way

$1,250,000 $1,350,000 $1,449,000 $1,575,000 $1,600,000 $1,599,000

$1,210,000 $1,350,000 $1,550,000 $1,560,000 $1,700,000 $1,810,000

2071 1057 1339 2290 1875 1906

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.

3 3 2 3 4 4

4 1* 2 2 2 2

* Rep. Both Seller/Buyer *

As Danville Natives, we know Danville and the San Ramon Valley Take a look at recent activity in your community!

Coming Soon

Pending

480 Veda Drive, Westside Danville

918 Podva Lane, Westside Danville

4 Bed + Office | 2.5 Bath | 2,504 Sq Ft | Amazing Westside Location Views of Mt. Diablo | Walkable to SRVHS and Downtown | $1,850,000

5 Bed | 3 Bath | 2,199 Sq Ft | Residential and Multi-Family Building Possibilities $1,399,000

Call us regarding how our Compass Concierge and Bridge Loan programs can help you!

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

January

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Fri., Jan. 8

Thurs., Jan. 21

Preschool Performance

Virtual TK-Kindergarten Informational Meeting

@Your home Comedy juggler Fred Anderson kicks off 2021 with his amazing routine! Purchase tickets online for this Zoom performance http://www.villagetheatreshows.com Time: 10am Cost: $2.50

Sat., Jan. 16

Comedy in Place with Liz Grant & Friends @Your home Enjoy an evening of laughs with Liz Grant and Friends! Watch from the comfort of your own home as this Danville regular lights up the stage.

Purchase tickets online for this Zoom performance - http://www.villagetheatreshows.com Time: 7:30pm Cost: $25

Through Jan. 17 (Tuesday - Sunday evenings)

Garden of d’Lights @Ruth Bancroft Garden Experience the Ruth Bancroft Garden in a whole new way at this year’s Garden of d’Lights. With more lights and more lasers, this year’s Garden of d’Lights is set to be better than ever. Guests of all ages are in for a holiday treat as they meander through the Garden’s 3.5 acres of mature cacti, succulents and trees that are transformed into magical colorful botanical sculptures by thousands of lights. Don’t miss this special opportunity to enjoy the holiday season safely outdoors in the Garden of d’Lights! Masks required.

Purchase at wwwRuthbancroftgarden.org Time: Tickets by reservation only - 5:30, 6:30 or 7:30 pm Cost: $20 adults, $10 children 6-15, free for children 5 and under

@Your Home * Meet our administrators * Hear from our teachers * Learn about our TK/Kinder program * Discover what makes St. Isidore School a special place!

See our ad on page 20 Time: 10am Register online at www.stisidore.org

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 nonprofits 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.

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JANUARY 2021

Knowledge is power.

Eskaton has been a trusted advisor and provider of senior living and services in Northern California for over 50 years. As a local nonprofit, we are committed to empowering older adults and their families with resources and information to help them understand their options and which services are best suited to meet their needs and preferences.

Discover the Eskaton Difference.

916-264-9004 | eskaton.org

DANVILLE LIVING CA 11

Expert Contributor

Flowers and Pests

By James S. Duncan, ISA Certified Arborist

I

love spring in this area. From the end of this month through May there seems to be something new flowering every week.

Not just the flowers but also the new leaves provide an ongoing delightful color display. However this is also when many pests become active. There are three very common pests that seem to be quite persistent.

The best defense against pests is keeping the plants healthy.

Stressed plants are more susceptible to attacks from pathogens and are slower to recover. My friend Dawn asked that I mention water. We’ve had no appreciative rain at the time of this writing.

If we don’t get plenty soon consider watering small and medium sized trees and shrubs and even larger trees. Yes we are told “Don’t water the native Oaks”. Go ahead and water to offset drought conditions through the winter and early spring. Keeping a plant healthy is better than all of the fertilizers and poisons we can use.

Fire blight (Erwinia amylovora) is a bacterium that affects pome bearing plants in the Rose family. Pears, Apples, and Hawthorne are the trees most commonly affected in this area. There are 3 Pear species in the area: the one we grow for fruit and two ornamentals.

Fire blight thrives and spreads in cool damp weather. Fog, light

misty rain, and wind all contribute to the spread of Fire blight.

It enters through buds as they open. Flowers and newly forming fruit will wither and die; leaves, shoots, and twigs will die and look as if they have been scorched. The bacteria will remain in the tissue and kill larger limbs if left unchecked.

Cut out the affected parts and when feasible sterilize your cutting tool between cuts. Injecting with a bactericide when they are in flower is the most effective method of control.

Anthracnose is another cool weather pest. This fungus is most damaging to Sycamores and Ash in the area. These spores enter the leaf buds and will cause the new leaves to be small and distorted and die. Often most of the first leaves will die and shed followed by a second crop in warmer dry conditions. The fungus will migrate into the twigs and branches causing them to be distorted and die.

Inject with a fungicide just as the buds begin to swell and break to control new infection. Fall injections will be more effective, so it’s something for your autumn calendar. In severe cases cutting the tree below the infected areas can be helpful though it may cause Powdery Mildew on the new growth.

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JANUARY 2021

The Carbonell Forrey Wealth Management Group 1331 North California Boulevard, Suite 650 Walnut Creek, CA 94596

Aphids show up as the weather warms and new growth is abundant.

Aphids suck juice from the leaves, use the protein, and secrete sugar. Fine sticky droplets on your car, sidewalk, or driveway are a sure indication of Aphids. Black material like soot on leaves is another sign.

On small shrubs like Roses you can spray them with mild soapy water. Cutting back on the fertilizer on small plants can also be helpful. You will likely need to have a professional spray trees if they become too messy. A fall injection with an insecticide is the most effective control.

Always feel free to question an arborist when there seems to be a problem with your tree.

(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)

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DANVILLE LIVING CA 13

Adventure Time

My Italian Heritage Project

By JP Sullivan, 2nd Grade

I

n school we’ve been working on a project called “My Heritage Project”. I know that my ancestors are from Italy. For this project, one of the things I shared was a family recipe. I chose to share figassa, which is an Italian bread. It is really easy to make and has a lot of salt and olive oil. It’s so delicious. My family likes to eat it a lot of different ways, like dipping it in olive oil with different seasonings, or using it for sandwiches.

This was me when I was 5 in Venice, Italy. There are no cars on the streets!

You can walk or take a boat, called a gondola.

Another family recipe we make together is our ravioli.

We eat this on Thanksgiving and Christmas. I’m just learning how to make it with my Nonno. There are a lot of steps to make a good ravioli.

Some interesting facts I learned about Italy are: 1) There are ancient buildings still standing there today.

2) Pizza was invented in Napoli in 1860.

3) It is really easy to spot on a map because it is shaped like a high-heel boot.

I can’t wait to learn even more about Italy. I’ve been there once and someday I hope we can go back to see our family.

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JANUARY 2021

Expert Contributor

Options for Removing Unwanted Fat

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

A

satisfying appearance can foster greater life enjoyment. If you are someone who struggles with stubborn fatty deposits that won’t go away with diet and exercise, CoolSculpting and/or liposuction may be ways for you to contour your body and eliminate unwanted fat. These two treatment options, one non-surgical and the other surgical, are two of the most requested procedures at our Blackhawk Plastic Surgery Center and Medspa… especially after the holidays!

CoolSculpting is an FDA-cleared non-surgical treatment for eliminating stubborn fat. Essentially the procedure freezes fat cells, which are then naturally processed through the body during the following months. The procedure is non-invasive and requires no downtime, making it a realistic treatment option for both busy women and men alike. CoolSculpting doesn’t cause you to lose weight, rather it freezes and kills existing fat cells. Once those fat cells are gone, they are gone for good.

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to remove stubborn pockets of fat that have accumulated over time and are frequently resistant to diet and exercise. The stubborn fat cells are removed through a cannula (long, skinny tube), which is inserted through tiny incisions in the specified area. If you are considering liposuction, knowing the facts about how this procedure works and what it can do for you is key to making an informed decision about your cosmetic needs.

Many people consider liposuction a procedure that works only for reducing fat around the waist, buttocks, and thighs. While these areas are prone to persistent fatty deposits, they are not the only regions that can benefit from liposuction. A skilled plastic surgeon can use this procedure to contour the neck, arms, knees, calves and ankles as well.

Y OUR LO C A L R EA L ESTATE PROF E SSIONAL 16 years of local real estate experience Over 85% of her business is repeat and referral In depth local market knowledge and pricing expertise Creates custom marketing campaigns for each client Creates custom hyper targeted digital advertising campaigns Manages whole process from pre market prep to post closing.

Works collaboratively with fellow agents to serve her clients’ best interests

Jill.Fusari@TheAgencyRE.com 925.817.7818 | LIC # 01775608

L U X U RY R E A L E STAT E AT T H E AG E N CY R E .C O M

Jill Fusari

Individuals who undergo liposuction are typically astounded by the results. Patients can eliminate fat and slim their figure with this procedure, but it is not a permanent weight loss solution or a substitute for healthy eating and exercise. To maintain their new physique, patients must keep up with healthy lifestyle habits to prevent the development of new fatty deposits over time.

Liposuction is sometimes performed in combination with other body contouring procedures such as a tummy tuck or breast lift.

If you are interested in learning more about our CoolSculpting, liposuction or any of our many surgical and non-surgical procedures, please contact our office at 925-736-5757 to schedule a free, no-obligation virtual or in-person consultation.

DANVILLE LIVING CA 15

Cooking Corner

New Year's Beef Stew

By Stephanie Seaberg, Resident since 2010

I

am what some would call a “Winter Wimp.” I don’t thrive in arctic cold temperatures or get excited for sweater weather.

I live in California for a reason.....it’s nice most of the time.

So, when winter hits Danville, I need the warmest, coziest and most filling dish that l can enjoy by a fire while I fantasize about Hawaii. This fabulous beef stew is guaranteed to fulfill that promise and impress the family. One of the other reasons why I love this dish is because it’s a “One Pot Wonder.” which means easy clean up. Serve this up with a side of polenta or a nice green salad and you’re in for a great meal.

New Year’s Beef Stew Serves: 4

You will need • Vegetable oil, enough to coat a pan • 2 LB. beef stew meat or beef chuck cut up into 1 inch pieces

• • • • • • •

1 Medium yellow onion, chopped 2 Stalks of celery, chopped 4 Cloves garlic, minced 1 C. red wine 1 28oz. can whole tomatoes, crushed with your hands 1 8oz. can tomato sauce 3 C. beef broth

A full-service boutique interior design studio specializing in residential and hospitality. www.caseyhowardid.com

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JANUARY 2021 12/4/20 3:36 PM

• • • •

Salt and pepper to taste 2 Medium russet potatoes peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes 4 Carrots, peeled and sliced 1 large zucchini, cut into 1 inch cubes

Putting it Together

Heat the oil in a heavy soup pot or Dutch oven and brown the beef on all sides at medium/high heat and set the beef aside.

In the same pot, sauté the onions and celery on medium heat until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic, and cook for one minute. Add the wine and hand crushed tomatoes, and cook for one more minute. Mix in the tomato sauce, broth and salt and pepper. Bring the stew to a boil and add the browned beef back to the pot and cover with a lid. Gently simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Add the potatoes, carrots and zucchini and cook for another 30 minutes.

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.

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Share Your Skills

Top Tips for Fool-proof Veggie Grilling

By Megan Scott, Planted Table

M

egan Scott comes to us from Blackhawk Living CA. She is also the owner of the top-rated vegan mealdelivery service, Planted Table, based out of Oakland. Enjoy her grilling tips to get veggies on the table!

We recently had a weekend of beautiful sunshine and it inspired me to fire up our grill. I love the flavor of the smokey grill.

A glass of wine and a good playlist help to make me forget the craziness of the times we are in.

During this time of sheltering in place during COVID 19, I have been trying to find comfort in simple activities at home, like grilling up some amazing veggies.

My Grilling Must-Haves: Wood Chips and Smoker Box

I love cooking with wood chips, it is optional but adds wonderful flavor to your food, especially when using a propane grill. Place dry wood chips into mini smoker box and once grill gets hot enough your smoke chips will start to ignite.

Pro Tip: Keep the lid closed during cooking so smoke stays contained as much as possible to the food and only lift lid while flipping food. Long tongs

18

are helpful to keep hands protected while working with a high heat grill.

Grilling Platter Technique

Heat up grill to medium heat. While you are waiting for your grill to heat, rinse vegetables and shake to dry.

Lay vegetables onto a large sheet tray, this makes for easy clean up. Keep the vegetables large so you can easily flip onto grates. You

JANUARY 2021

can cut them up if needed after cooking.

My Favorite Grilling Marinade

Mix a grilling marinade of your choice. My go-to is a combination of high-quality extra virgin olive oil, Spanish-smoked paprika, freshly minced parsley, salt, pepper and garlic powder.

Grilling Rub Recipe

1/2 cup evoo 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika 1/2 cup minced parsley 1 tablespoon of garlic powder salt and pepper to taste Stir marinade and pour over your vegetables onto the sheet tray. Rub to cover all vegetables.

Estimated Time for Cooking:

Baby Yukon Gold Potatoes: 12- 15 minutes Cipollini Onions: 12 minutes Portobello Mushrooms: 12 minutes Baby Bell Peppers: 6-8 minutes Asparagus: 4-6 minutes If you have a flair up or something really sticking to the grill, I use my tongs and squeeze juice out of the citrus to add flavor and liquid to help stop burning. I also use the orange to dip into the marinade and then coat the food on the grill in place of using a brush.

The wonderful thing about vegan cooking, is even though that tray had raw food on it, it is still perfectly safe to use and you can continue building flavor with the marinade on the tray.

Cut the vegetables to the desired size and enjoy.

I hope everyone can find peace and enjoyment cooking at home as much as I have!

All Done Grilling

Once done grilling, place all ingredients back onto your sheet tray with the marinade.

Pro Tip: I grill a few oranges by cutting them in half and placing them cut side down onto the grill. This is a great tool while you are cooking for decreasing flames (see below).

Lay the vegetables that take the longest to grill first and keep going into the next longest to cook.

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Arts and Culture

A Scarecrow Stroll followed by a Tree Trail

By Alexandra Sullivan, Resident since 2017

S

trolling through Downtown Danville the last couple months has certainly brought up a bunch of mixed feelings. But one thing has remained true, and that is our community’s dedication to showing up and bringing joy to residents and visitors alike.

In November, it was the Scarecrow Stroll, followed by December’s Trail of Trees. If you weren’t able to check it out in person, here are some pictures snapped throughout the seasons.

Thank you to the Town of Danville for always coming up with these awesome community events. We can’t wait to see what you have planned next!

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Danville Cigar, Fine Wine & Gifts

JANUARY 2021

Whim House

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Expert Contributor

Anticipating a Positive 2021

By Janice Jordan, Compass, Resident since 1998

N

o one can deny that 2020 caught everyone off guard. We could not have anticipated all the struggles and turmoil that the Novel Coronavirus has caused.

So what can we expect from 2021?

Here are some important changes that will help buyers and sellers: 1) Proposition 19 allows sellers to keep their existing tax rate when they sell and move to other counties.

2) Fanny Mae and Freddy Mac raises conforming loan limits to $822,375, almost a $60k increase over last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s limits.

In our Westside market, we have seen some jaw dropping activity. The average price per foot from January to the beginning of June was $679/ft and we were averaging about 5 sales a month. From June until the beginning of December 2020 our price per square foot was $719 and we averaged over 30 homes

per month sold. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 6 times the volume of homes sold and over a 5% increase in price per square foot. This trend is expected to continue in 2021. Many factors influence this prediction, such as the buyers from the Peninsula and SF who want larger lots and more space than their current high density living conditions, interest rates remain at an all time low, and there is a higher demand for families needing home office space or remote learning space and our Westside homes offer the opportunity for this with large lots and spacious ranchers.

We have also seen a large exodus of families leaving California. Factors that are influencing this trend are lower cost of living in other states, ability to work remotely versus living within commute distance to work, and selling their home for all time high prices.

I am hopeful that all of you will stay healthy and safe in 2021. We are a wonderful community made up of people who care and support each other. I am grateful to be part of this awesome place we all call home. If you are thinking of moving, it is still a great time to take advantage of a healthy market. If you are thinking of buying, our current low interest rates will give you the most buying power in the last 40 years. Call me to help you navigate this special time in our real estate market. My 30 years selling experience is needed to help you find your next dream home.

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.

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JANUARY 2021

Imagine a Community Without Frantic Families

By Patrick Lencioni, founder and president, The Table Group

P

arents are the CEOs of their families, and families are more important than companies. Yes, I am confident that both of those statements are true. And so, it stands to reason that parents should go about planning and organizing their home life with at least as much strategic clarity as a CEO runs his or her business.

Unfortunately, most of them don’t. I certainly didn’t. And the cost of this is greater than we know, for our families, our children, our marriages, and even our communities.

Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be that way. Imagine you, your family, and your community, being calmer, more intentional and more peaceful. Imagine not having to worry about whether your son makes the travel squad of the underwater lacrosse team, or whether your daughter takes advanced placement astrophysics during her junior year of high school, or whether you should have bought that lake house while interest rates were low like your neighbors did.

Theodore Roosevelt once said that “comparison is the thief of joy,” and it is so easy for parents and families to lose their joy when they are tempted to compare their lives to the people next door, down the street or in the next pew over at church. The key to avoiding this is to get clear—really clear—about who you are and what matters most to you, and then making decisions with confidence, knowing that you’re living true to yourselves regardless of what others are doing. That is the purpose of my book, The Three Big Questions for a Frantic Family.

my clients ran their companies the way we run this family, they’d go out of business.” Feeling like I was criticizing her, Laura objected, and I reminded her that it was as much my fault as hers. In fact, I was more at fault because I spent my days helping others create clarity and strategy, and I did virtually nothing in that area at home. So I adapted the work I did for corporations for families and came up with The Three Big Questions.

What this entails is actually simple. In just an hour over dinner, parents can have a discussion that provides a basic but critical level of family clarity. By asking and discussing a few key questions, they can identify the values that guide the behavior of the family, the basic principles that create the strategy for the family, and the single greatest priority for the family over the next few months. By carving out just 15 minutes each week, they can review those things and make whatever decisions and adjustments are necessary to keep things smooth and on track. The book provides reallife examples from different kinds of families, from those with young kids to empty-nesters. It’s a fictional story about a husband and wife who discover the model, but the most important thing about the book is this: it really works.

Additional Assets: www.tablegroup.com/download/frantic-family-model/

I discovered the model for the book years ago. By day I was, and still am, a consultant to CEOs. By night I’m a husband and father. One evening I came home, and innocuously said to Laura, my wife: “If

Patrick Lencioni was named in Fortune magazine as one of the “ten new gurus you should know.” His passion for organizations and teams is reflected in his writing, speaking and executive consulting. He is the author of eleven best-selling books.

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24

JANUARY 2021

Tee Time

Tee it Up:

in the Desert

By Lynne Harrosh, Resident since 2008 Arriving at hole 18 as the sun begins to set and the full moon rises.

T

he Desert Willow Golf Resort Mountain Course of Palm Desert is a beautifully manicured and well taken care of municipal golf course in the vast Sonoran Desert and Coachella Valley. The Mountain View course, one of two courses at The Desert Willow Golf Resort, has wide open fairways and greens that keep your ball rolling one way or the other. The indigenous desert shrubs and flowers line the course and have blossoms of all colors throughout.

The roadrunners, with their long legs, pointy slim beaks and aerodynamic lengthy tail feathers, checked us out at nearly every tee box. Even though this course is in the desert, there are many water features, so keep your head in the game. It is like an oasis, breathtakingly beautiful.

The view from The Terrace Restaurant at the Desert Willow Golf Resort. String lights, heaters, and COVID protocol made for a beautiful and relaxing dinner after we finished the 18th hole.

I am not sure how many municipal courts are as well taken care of as this one, but this golf course is a must see and

Hole 11, par 3, over the water and 6 inches short of the green.

must play if you are in the Palm Desert area. The course is set with the Santa Rosa Mountain Range as a backdrop on one side and the Little San Bernardino Mountains on the opposite side.

The award winning Desert Willow Golf Resort is located adjacent to The Westin Desert Willow Villas Resort, a 4.5 star Marriott Bonvoy resort with a state-of-the-art fitness studio, four swimming pools and waterslides. There are palm trees lining the streets and throughout the resort & course. It brings the Hollywood feel to the desert just as it once had in the 1950’s and 60’s when the desert was the great escape for the glamorous movie stars of Los Angeles.

Besides having amazing golf courses that beautify the city, the Palm Desert and surrounding areas have activities for all members of your family. There is high end outlet shopping located on Highway 10 prior to entering Palm Desert, exquisite golf courses, The Living Desert, Joshua Tree, Hiking, tennis facilities, famous named streets, and an area on El Paseo that will rival Rodeo drive with upscale retail shopping and restaurants. October through April is the perfect time to explore this amazing land of relaxation and rejuvenation. Thanksgiving, Winter Break, or Spring Break are all perfect times to bring your family to the desert. Southwest just started flying to the Palm Springs airport in case making the 8 hour drive is not your jam. Whether driving or flying, this is the perfect family escape!

“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” Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

DANVILLE LIVING CA 25

Expert Contributor

Ring in the New Year with a New Look!

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

H

appy New Year from our family to yours! After surviving 2020 – now is the perfect time to kick off the much anticipated New Year by re-doing the ring you wear and enjoy daily. Resetting your diamond is a great way to get a whole new look. Whether you have a pear-shape, marquise or a classic round brilliant diamond, we at Padis can show you the hottest new styles that you will be sure to love.

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

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

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your daughter, is one sentimental option.

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

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

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

happy to assist you in any way. Don’t hesitate to visit us at the store, schedule a virtual consultation, give us a call or shoot us an email!

Concierge@padisjewelry.com

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

Whatever you choose, your rings should always be a reflection of your love and spark memories of the moments shared throughout your life. Our team at Padis Jewelry is

Remodels | Additions | Bathroom Remodels Demolition | New Construction Fabricate and Install Countertops | Kitchen remodels

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JANUARY 2021

DANVILLE LIVING CA 27

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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Happy New Year from The Frazzano Tse Team Thank you to all of our wonderful clients for a fantastic year!

#1 In Closed Sales Volume Out of 8,000+ Local Real Estate Agents (2009-2020 Combined, MLS)

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In Closed Sales 2017-2020

$1.99B+

100 Raven Court, Danville 10069 La Paz Avenue, San Ramon* 1085 Rosamund Drive, San Ramon 10864 Inspiration Circle, Dublin** 109 Fairwood Court, Danville 110 Elworthy Ranch Drive, Danville 1110 Rosamund Drive, San Ramon 11191 Brittany Lane, Dublin 112 Windover Drive, Danville* 11264 Rothschild Court, Dublin 11579 Circle Way, Dublin 1160 Delta Way. Danville 11832 Norfolk Place, Dublin 121 Baldwin Drive, Danville** 1270 Mountbatten Court, Concord** 1330 Sutter Creek Lane, San Ramon 140 Channi Loop, Danville 1533 Morning Glory Circle, Livermore 168 Elworthy Ranch Drive, Danville 171 Norris Canyon Terriace, Dublin* 1741 Farm Bureau Raod, Concord* 1756 S Terracina Drive, Dublin 187 Maidenhair Court, San Ramon 2 Creekledge Court, Danville* 201 La Serena Avenue, Alamo** 201 S Ridge Court, Danville 208 Channi Loop, Danville*

230 Royal Palm Place, Danville 2320 Millstream Lane, San Ramon 24 Deer Meadow Place, Danville* 246 Arency Court, Danville 248 Aptos Place, Danville 25 Old Town Lane, Danville 26 Edgemont Circle, Walnut Creek* 2707 Mohawk Circle, San Ramon 2722 E Sugar Hill Terriace, Dublin** 2792 Alliston Loop, Dublin 2805 Jefferson Lane, Concord 291 El Pinto, Danville** 3009 Grove Way, Castro Valley 304 Happy Valley Roard, Pleasanton 3048 Gritstone Street, Danville* 3067 Montbretia Way, San Ramon 3106 Maguire Way, Dublin 311 Mashona Court, Danville 326 Canterbury Court, Alamo 33 Cambra Court, Danville* 33 Savona Court, Danville* 34 Cameron Court, Danville 3447 Ashbourne Circle, San Ramon 3467 Rimini Lane, Dublin 3589 Rocking Horse Court, Dublin 367 Jacaranda Drive, Danville 3723 Central Parkway, Dublin 3841 Crow Canyon Road, San Ramon 3880 Silvera Ranch Drive, Dublin 401 Glacier Drive, Martinez 41 Scripps Haven Lane, Alamo 4124 Clarinbridge Circle, Dublin 423 Skyline Drive, San Ramon 431 Corte Dorado, Danville* 441 Barranca Court, San Ramon 4518 Lilac Ridge Ridge, San Ramon 4617 Grafton Street, Dublin 4681 Rimini Court, Dublin 4731 Travertino Street, Dublin 4769 Perugia Street, Dublin* 4815 Volterra Drive, Dublin**

489 Del Amigo Road, Danville* 5004 Westside Drive, San Ramon 5012 Round Hill Drive, Dublin** 5041 Enderby Street, Danville 5104 Rowan Drive, San Ramon 5118 Rowan Drive, San Ramon** 5321 Moonflower Way, Livermore* 5336 Signal Hill Drive, Dublin 543 Silver Lake Drive, Danville* 5444 Blackhawk Drive, Danville 5468 Bellevue Circle, Dublin 5629 Melodia Circle, Dublin** 5632 N Dublin Ranch Drive, Dublin** 5639 Evolene Street, Danville 572 Sycamore Road, Pleasanton* 5747 Kingsmill Terriace, Dublin* 5758 Avellina Drive, Dublin 5832 Avellina Drive, Dublin 5855 Hillbrook Place, Dublin 5920 Hillbrook Place, Dublin 5947 Lantana Way, San Ramon* 61 Sugarloaf Lane, Alamo 6131 Ledgewood Terriace, Dublin 647 Windmill Lane, Pleasanton 6724 Liggett Drive, Oakland* 7085 Hyacinthus Lane, San Ramon 711 Citrus Avenue, Concord 7169 Kylemore Circle, Dublin** 7222 Carneros Lane, Dublin 7259 Lone Court, Dublin* 7270 Mount Veeder Roard, Dublin 7311 Balmoral Way, San Ramon 7423 Kenwood Road, Dublin 7881 Galway Court, Dublin** 8037 Via Zapata, Dublin 83 Highbridge Court, Danville 86 Saint Patricks Court, Danville 9426 Blessing Drive, Pleasanton 9733 Sara Ann Court, Dublin 974 Ocho Rios Drive, Danville * Represented Buyers. ** Represented Buyers & Sellers

In Lifetime Home Sales

Joe Frazzano 925.890.0285 DRE 00982431

Alex Tse frazzanotse.com

28

925.788.1432 DRE 01386020

JANUARY 2021