Pets Issue
LIFE + CULTURE
KEEPING YOUR PETS COOL THIS SUMMER
ENTERTAINMENT
SHARING THE MAGIC
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From Summer Adventures to Back-to-School Moments
As summer winds down and back-to-school season ramps up, August always feels like a month of transition. The temperatures may still scream summer, but the energy shifts—we trade pool bags for backpacks and lose routines for early alarms.
In this Kids & Pets issue, we celebrate the energy, imagination, and heart of our youngest community members—and the animals who make our lives a little more joyful.
One story especially close to my heart is our feature on Troop 402G, an all-girl Scouts BSA troop with more than 100 active scouts. The troop is led by Heather Tzortzis, and I've had the privilege of serving as an assistant scoutmaster—a role I never imagined for myself. I don't have much outdoor experience, yet here I am helping these incredible young ladies learn skills I'm still figuring out myself (what the heck are "lashings"?).
I had never been backpacking when my daughter asked me to join a 25-mile trek. When your kid asks to spend time with you—especially away from screens—you say yes. I'm so thankful that I did. We had a beautiful adventure in the Emigrant Wilderness: jumping into alpine lakes, hiking across mountain passes, stunned by the raw beauty of California, and amazed by what we accomplished together. It was challenging and unforgettable.
Closer to home, there are plenty of adventures to be found in everyday places— sometimes even while running errands. If you've ever wandered through Ace Hardware on Mt. Diablo Boulevard with your kids, you've likely looked up to find a model train chugging along overhead, complete with a miniature Golden Gate Bridge. Thanks to a tip from owner Kevin Fisher, we're sharing the story behind this whimsical local favorite and the community spirit it represents.
Speaking of local charm, our cover this month features an irresistibly cute pup that perfectly captures the spirit of this issue. This came to us last minute, thanks to local photographer Justin Winokur, whose generosity and game-for-anything energy made it happen. We're so appreciative of his ongoing support—not just with the magazine but also in helping our clients shine through his photography.
As always, thank you for reading and supporting the stories that shape Walnut Creek. Whether you're savoring the last days of summer or wishing for cooler ones, I hope this issue brings a smile and a few memories of your own summer adventures.
Warmly,
LAUREL KELLAM, PUBLISHER
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Laurel Kellam | laurel.kellam@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Hemananthani Sivanandam hema.sivanandam@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Emily Viscia | emily.viscia@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
McKenzie Walleshauser mckenzie.walleshauser@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lindsey Hickman, Linda Ditch, Ryan Phillips, Crystal Leong
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Justin Winokur
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsi Southard
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: At Walnut Creek City Lifestyle, it’s all about fostering genuine connections. Our recent networking event, hosted by Sculptology in Lafayette, was a huge success! Thanks to Mariam at Gourmet Grazing Goat for the delicious bites and Sculptology for the warm hospitality.
Photography by Laurel Kellam
Celebrate your furkids at Lazy Dog Restaurant
To celebrate National Dog Day on August 26, Lazy Dog Restaurant has partnered with the non-profit organization Pet Partners. From Aug 26 to 31, Lazy Dog will donate $1 to Pet Partners for every Dog Bowl ordered in-restaurant. Dine-in guests who purchase a Dog Bowl for their pup at that time will also receive a card for a free Dog Bowl on a future visit with the purchase of an entrée.
KEEPYOUR PETSCOOL
When summer’s heat settles over the Bay Area, we are not the only ones feeling the burn—our pets suffer too. Dogs and cats are far more vulnerable to high temperatures than we often realize. Unlike humans, pets do not sweat efficiently and can quickly overheat, leading to serious risks like heatstroke, dehydration, painful paws, and sunburns.
As temperatures soar, keeping your four-legged companions comfortable and safe is essential.
Here are six essential tips to help keep your pet cool and safe:
1. Keep Them Hydrated: Hydration is your pet’s first defense against the heat. Whether on a walk or relaxing at home, always provide easy access to fresh, cool water. Consider keeping multiple bowls around the house, and bring a pet water bottle with a built-in bowl on outings.
Summer Safety Tips for Your Furry Friends!
ARTICLE BY DR. WAILANI SUNG | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY JOYBOUND PEOPLE & PETS AND STOCK PHOTOS
2. Time Outdoor Activities Wisely:
The midday sun can be harsh on pets, so plan walks and playtime for early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are cooler and surfaces are less likely to burn their paws. Instead of intense games like fetch, try waterbased alternatives like sprinklers or a kiddie pool to help your dog stay active and cool. Always supervise pool time and prevent pets from drinking chlorinated or salty water. After any swim, give them a quick rinse to protect their skin and coat from irritation.
Dogs can also get sunburned, especially those with short or light-colored coats, thin hair, or pink skin. Use pet-safe sunscreen (never human sunscreen) on vulnerable areas like the tips of white ears and the exposed skin on their nose and muzzle. Reapply as needed, particularly after swimming or extended sun exposure.
3. Offer Shade and Cooling Spots: Ensure your pet has a shady place to retreat outdoors and create cool zones inside. While it may be tempting to shave your long-haired pet, their coat actually helps regulate body temperature. A better strategy? Frequent brushing to reduce excess undercoat and promote airflow.
4. Never Leave Pets in Hot Cars: Vehicle interiors can become deadly even on a mild day. A Stanford study found that on a 72°F day, a car’s internal temperature can reach 116°F within an hour. Cracked windows will not help. Heat affects pets faster than people, especially those with flat faces, thick coats, or health issues. If you spot an animal in distress inside a parked car, alert the nearest business or call local authorities. California law protects animals left in dangerous conditions.
CONTINUED >
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If you cannot hold the back of your hand to the ground comfortably for five seconds, it is too hot for your pet.
5. Test the Pavement: Hot pavement can burn paw pads within seconds. If you cannot hold the back of your hand to the ground comfortably for five seconds, it is too hot for your pet. Stick to cooler surfaces or choose grassy routes when temperatures spike.
6. Know the Signs of Heatstroke: Stay alert for danger signals like excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or even collapse. If your pet shows signs of overheating, move them to a cooler place immediately, apply lukewarm water to their body (never cold), and contact your vet.
This summer, treat your pets with extra care and compassion. A few simple precautions can ensure your best friend enjoys the season safely by your side. When in doubt, it is always better to play it cool!
Dr. Sung is a board-certified veterinary behaviorist. She is currently the Senior Director of Animal Admissions and Wellbeing at Joybound People & Pets.
Forging a Trail
THE STORY OF BSA TROOP 402'S BOLD BEGINNINGS
ARTICLE
BY LINDSEY
In 2019, a bold and inspiring chapter began in Lafayette when the Tzortzis and Mlynek families co-founded one of the region’s first all-girls Scout BSA troops. What began as a daughter’s simple request—“I want to join Boy Scouts”—quickly transformed into a pioneering effort that has since created a lasting legacy of empowerment, leadership, and community for young women. What emerged wasn’t just a troop—it was a thriving community where young women lead, explore, and rise.
Heather and Chris Tzortzis, longtime supporters of Scouting America through their son Tristan’s experience in Troop 204, were no strangers to the transformative power of BSA. Tristan, who earned his Eagle rank in 2018, often inspired his three younger sisters with stories of high-adventure treks, leadership opportunities, and the tight-knit camaraderie in Scouting. When the BSA officially opened its ranks to girls in 2018, it was a natural next step for the Tzortzis' to bring that same opportunity to their three daughters—and other girls in their community.
“When our daughter said she wanted to join, we realized there wasn’t a girls’ troop nearby,” said Scoutmaster Heather, who had previously led a Girl Scout troop. “So we decided to start one.”
The Tzortzis family reached out to like-minded families, including the Mlyneks—Christine, Marie, and John—who also had sons in Scouting and daughters ready for the challenge. Together, the Tzortzis and Mlynek families worked tirelessly to plan, organize, and charter what would become Troop 402. With support from Troop 204, they laid the groundwork for a new kind of Scouting experience: one rooted in tradition but adapted for a modern vision.
At the heart of Troop 402’s success are the young women who stepped up to lead from the beginning. Alexia Tzortzis, now 22, was the troop’s inaugural Senior Patrol Leader(SPL) and one of its first Eagle Scouts. Alongside Christine Mlynek, also a founding SPL, Alexia helped build the very culture that defines the troop today—a place where structure meets freedom, and where leadership is learned through experience.
“They didn’t just create a troop,” Heather reflects, “they created a home—a place where scouts could be their full selves, take risks, and grow.”
Amaia Tzortzis, now a graduating senior and Junior Assistant Scoutmaster, exemplifies the kind of confident, capable leader the troop was designed to foster. Over her years in the troop, she has held nearly every leadership position and earned her Eagle rank while mentoring dozens of younger scouts.
“Amaia doesn’t just lead—she connects. Scouts follow her because they trust her —she makes learning fun and meaningful,” said Heather.
The next generation is already stepping up, with Alina Tzortzis now serving as the troop’s SPL. Known for her adaptability and creative leadership, Alina has a knack for managing the complex logistics of a troop that regularly sees over 50 scouts at meetings.
Under the founding families' leadership, Troop 402 quickly became known for its supportive environment; from the start, the adults worked intentionally to create a space where girls felt safe, respected, and empowered.
“Our troop is kind by design,” said Heather. “We don’t tolerate negativity, and we work hard to make sure every scout feels they belong.”
Launching the troop wasn’t easy. The proposal to charter a girls’ troop sparked debate within the existing organization, but after three months of meticulous planning, discussions, and refining their vision, the charter was approved by a single vote.
Since its founding, Troop 402 has grown tremendously, both in numbers and impact. The program has welcomed over a hundred girls, offering them the full range of BSA experiences—from 50-mile hikes to snow camping, spelunking, and everything in between.
Though the path to founding the troop was full of unknowns, the rewards have been extraordinary.
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“Watching these girls grow into confident, compassionate, and capable leaders has been the greatest gift,” Heather shared, “This program changed their lives—it changed mine.”
For those considering starting a troop, Heather offers this advice: “Make every meeting matter. Build a culture rooted in kindness. And remember—you’re not alone. There’s a whole Scouting community ready to support you.”
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SHARING THE Magic
The Peter Pan Foundation (PPF)
“PPF is probably one of the most welcoming spaces you can be in. The community is vast, diverse, and gregarious. You can feel the kindness in the air. Once you’re a part of the PPF family, you’re a part of the PPF family for life. It’s truly wonderful.”
– Talulah Geistlinger.
Meet Young Performers from The Peter Pan Foundation Who Delight Audiences and Kids in Need
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY PETER PAN FOUNDATION
Since 2007, The Peter Pan Foundation (PPF) has aimed to help young people of all ages build talents and confidence through musical theater. The main show, “Wish Upon A Star,” features iconic characters like heroes, princesses, and villains, with Peter Pan guiding the audience. Performances support UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital.
Their primary mission is to bring joy to children through special shows at Children’s Hospital Oakland and collaborations with Make-A-Wish and organizations serving individuals with special needs. Performers of all ages develop creativity, confidence, and character while honing their talents and giving back to others.
Walnut Creek City Lifestyle met some of the PPF artists who make the magic happen:
ROXIE TARANTINO, PRESIDENT OF THE BAY AREA MAGIC MAKERS (BAMM SQUAD), WHICH IS THE TEEN COUNCIL OF PPF
When I was 11, I saw my neighbor, Lauren Wagner, perform in the annual production of “Wish Upon A Star,” and I knew I wanted to not just perform but also give back to the community in a similar way. There is a place for everyone in the PPF, and if you give it a chance, you will find a supportive and loving family that will always offer a place for you.
The most important thing I’ve learned through my community service is that small acts of kindness and service go a long way. For BAMM’s annual Adopt-A-Family gift drive, after wrapping, labeling, and dropping off four large bags of gifts for two families, I already felt accomplished. But a week later, I received two letters in the mail from the families we had donated to. When I opened the envelopes, one of the cards read, “We are forever grateful.” At that moment, I felt like all the work was more than worth it.
BENJAMIN "BENNY" WILLIAMS
I first connected with the PPF through Children’s Hospital Oakland, where I was a patient at the Day Hospital. During one of PPF’s visits to the hospital, I met founder Leslie Noel Hansen, who was dressed as a magical character. That interaction raised my spirits while I was in the hospital. I later joined PPF because I wanted to help the other kids in the hospital who were in my situation. PPF has given me a safe place to be myself.
My favorite experience with PPF has been doing “Wish Upon A Star.” Another favorite experience was meeting a patient from Children’s Hospital Oakland who was part of the Charlie’s Clinic, the Down Syndrome Clinic. I was being Peter Pan, and he wanted to see me fly, and I helped teach him how to fly. It was so amazing seeing him light up and fly around.
RIYANA MELVANI, BAMM SQUAD VICE PRESIDENT
I initially joined PPF because I was excited by the chance to be part of incredible shows alongside talented performers—but I stayed because of the heart of the organization. The community and philanthropic values are what truly make it home.
The most meaningful experience for me was participating in a Make-AWish event earlier this year. We were helping grant the wish of a sweet little boy who adored princesses. It was deeply emotional and powerful. I realized that our performances weren’t just for applause—they were for joy, hope, and dreams. It’s a memory I will carry with me forever.
TALULAH GEISTLINGER
My favorite moment with PPF has to be my first philanthropy event. We went to Children’s Hospital Oakland dressed as various characters, and it was spectacular. I loved seeing the joy in the kids’ faces and participating in something so beautiful.
PPF is probably one of the most welcoming spaces you can be in. The community is vast, diverse, and gregarious. You can feel the kindness in the air. Once you’re a part of the PPF family, you’re a part of the PPF family for life. It’s truly wonderful.
I saw my big sisters having fun with PPF and wanted to have fun with them. I really like to sing at home, so I wanted to sing on stage, too.
My favorite thing has been being a Lost Boy in “Wish Upon A Star.” I made lots of friends and had fun with them on the stage and at rehearsals. And I loved the snuggly fox costume.
When I was in first grade, I went to watch PPF’s “Wish Upon A Star” because my friend Natalie was in the show. The theater was packed, and my dad and I got the last two seats in the last row. I absolutely fell in love with the show, and I’ve been a part of it every year since.
WILLIAM FOON
DYLAN KELLY (4 YEARS OLD)
I’ve learned that we should use our talents to brighten up the lives of those around us and in our community. It’s always fun to see how happy people, especially the kids, are when we perform at shows or events. – William Foon.
For more information about The Peter Pan Foundation and their upcoming performances, visit: PeterPanFoundation.org
Leslie Noel Hansen, the founder of The Peter Pan Foundation
Benjamin "Benny" Williams as John in the production of production of "Wish Upon A Star."
Sierra Hefferman
Some cast members from past performances. (Photo by Laurel Kellam)
Some cast members from past performances. (Photo by Laurel Kellam)
Inspiration
all aboard!
Walnut Creek’s Ace Hardware Hosts a Miniature Marvel in Motion.
Step into Downtown Walnut Creek's Ace Hardware, and you'll quickly realize it's more than just a place for nuts and bolts. You'll encounter a marvel of miniature engineering.
A 575-foot G-scale model train, which has become a beloved community fixture, loops on its intricate overhead tracks. It chugs past a redwood bridge and tiny landscapes that evolve every few years.
If you look closely, you'll discover several detail-oriented features, all painstakingly designed. There's a stunning replica of the Golden Gate Bridge, a charming covered bridge crafted from aged wood with hand-lasered planks and tiny lights illuminating a rolling landscape dotted with clusters of miniature trees. This G-scale locomotive traverses twin tracks with continuous loops, logging an impressive distance.
"It runs 104,000 feet a day—that's our record since 2010," says Eric Moe, the visionary behind this kinetic installation and owner of Moe Trains. That's nearly 20 miles daily, equivalent to circling a football field 79 times!
What began as a holiday pop-up is now a community fixture, embodying Eric's lifelong passion for railroads in motion. "It's not just tracks and scenery. It's about making every detail feel alive," he says.
ARTICLE BY RYAN PHILLIPS
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY ERIC MOE
Eric's passion for the rails started when he was just a one-year-old with a Santa Fe caboose, the only surviving piece of his first set. His path to professional model-making took detours.
He found success in the high-octane world of drag racing, even winning Top Eliminator at the Phoenix International Raceway in 1986. He recognized surprising parallels between the demands of drag racing and the intricate detail required for model railroads.
Eric then merged these skills to launch Moe Trains – a boutique studio specializing in custom railroads.
"I didn't find anybody (locally) doing this," he says. "It's about troubleshooting, not just buying something out of a box."
Eric recounts a particularly poignant request when a client wanted to recreate the view from his childhood back window.
"We built the house with a camera inside so he could watch the train pass by on a screen, just like when he was young."
His projects range from practical solutions, like a water-tank car that services a hillside garden, to elaborate displays, like a logging railroad with "about 2,000 model trees." Some creations don't even move: "Just a picture frame where the linkages move," he says. "It doesn't go anywhere."
His shop has eight 3D printers, including a stereolithography machine, laser cutters, and CNC mills. He produces everything from McKeen motorcars (only 500 originals were made in 1908) to interactive displays where passing trains activate lighting.
"At our Pleasanton installation, the train triggers shadow boxes to light up," he says. Eric says he's also done work at the Walt Disney Family Museum.
But his dream project is the Orient Express: "(The Orient Express) is the world's best," he says. "I wish the United States would get high-speed rail. I'd get on board with that."
“It runs 104,000 feet a day—that’s our record since 2010.”
After summer maintenance, he begins to prep for Christmas, his busiest season. Clients request nostalgic recreations, like childhood views of passing trains.
"We build the house, put a camera inside, and they see that same view on screen," he says, emphasizing kinetic displays.
"People connect more when things actually move."
Visit: Moetrains.com
off the beaten path
Local Youth Mountain Biking Team Finding Wisdom on the Trails
ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVIDCERVENKA.COM
In the rolling hills and open trails of Walnut Creek and Lafayette, a unique youth sports team is doing more than just teaching kids how to ride bikes—it’s helping them build confidence, focus, resilience, and lifelong friendships. The Contra Costa Composite Mountain Bike Team (CCC MTB) brings together middle and high schoolers from across the county to experience the challenge and joy of mountain biking, all under the guidance of passionate volunteer coaches.
For head coach Gordon Reese, the motivation to get involved came naturally. “As someone who’s always loved the outdoors and the challenge of mountain biking, coaching offered a great way to give back,” Gordon says. “It’s amazing to help kids discover confidence, community, and grit through the sport.”
The team began just five years ago with a small group of enthusiastic riders. Today, it has grown to include 38 middle and high schoolers from various schools and neighborhoods, all united by their shared love for riding. “It’s incredible to watch the progress these kids make over a season—not just in skills and fitness, but in teamwork and self-confidence,” he adds.
CCC MTB’s key success is its community spirit. Volunteer coaches like Zack Springer, Jeremy Steinmeier, Greg Roberts, and Jeff Maddox help shape every ride with energy and experience. “This is one of the only sports I know where parents can directly participate with their children,” Gordon notes, “That shared experience builds strong bonds.”
Riders are equally inspired. Thirteen-year-old Sierra Roberts, who joined the team because her dad mountain bikes and they live near Mt. Diablo, recalls a favorite moment: “Riding at China Camp was one of the best memories I’ve made,” she says, “I’d tell anyone thinking about joining that they should—mountain biking is a very fun and unique sport that lets you get outside often.”
Rider Liam Barrett, 18, says joining the team was a turning point in his riding journey. “I got into mountain biking when a friend from CCC invited me out. Since joining, I’ve improved a lot and started working on downhill and enduro racing,” he shares, “One of my favorite memories is racing up hills with teammates. It was a great experience and a huge source of exercise."
CCC MTB practices three times a week and competes in the NorCal League’s seasonal races. Riders train on local trails, benefit from skill drills, and build camaraderie through race weekends that are filled with cheering and support. The team also emphasizes trail stewardship, volunteering for maintenance days on Mount Diablo to give back to the land they love.
“It’s about building character, confidence, and friendships that last long after the ride is over.”
Balancing his full-time role as founder of Gordon Reese Design Build with coaching is no easy feat, but it’s well worth the effort for Gordon. “Spending time on the trails with the kids recharges me. It brings perspective and a sense of purpose that carries into everything I do.”
Looking ahead, the team hopes to grow with heart— expanding access to more kids, providing gear and financial assistance when needed.
“This team is more than just riding bikes,” says Gordon, “It’s about building character, confidence, and friendships that last long after the ride is over.”
Visit: cccmtb.com
Gordon Reese helping one of the riders.
ARTICLE BY CRYSTAL LONG PHOTOGRAPHY BY BETH THIESEN & COURTESY OF CALIFORNIA SYMPHONY
INSIDE CALIFORNIA SYMPHONY’S SOUND MINDS Program
THE FREE MUSIC PROGRAM HELPING KIDS THRIVE
We all enjoy music—whether we’re dancing to it, listening on repeat, or even learning to play. But did you know that learning a musical instrument at a young age can offer powerful developmental benefits? Research shows that kids who play instruments enjoy enhanced memory, better coordination, higher self-esteem, and stronger social skills. It can even lead to reduced anxiety and depression, as well as improved academic performance and IQ.
That’s exactly what the California Symphony believes—and it’s the driving force behind Sound Minds, a transformative music education program that’s changing lives in the East Bay.
Sound Minds, launched as a pilot program in 2012, allows young students to get free music lessons from professional musicians. Inspired by the El Sistema program in Venezuela, the program began at Downer Elementary in San Pablo.
Michel Taddei, the California Symphony's Education and Orchestra Personnel Manager, said the program serves second through sixth graders. It trains students in their chosen
“I like that it has shown me what I am good at, and I like being able to express myself with music.”
“By the time students have participated for one year in Sound Minds, their math proficiency rates quadruple compared to students who do not participate.”
instrument—the violin or the cello. Students are also taught music theory, chorus, academic coursework, and how to play in ensembles. Twelve-year-old violin student Angela Villalobos says her favorite thing about being in Sound Minds is “learning an instrument, learning new things that I wouldn’t learn in the regular class.” “I like that it has shown me what I am good at, and I like being able to express myself with music,” said Angela, who’s been playing violin for four years. While students attend music classes for about two hours a week, the benefits go well beyond the classroom. “The program has proven to enhance academic outcomes,” says Michel. “By the time students have participated for one year in Sound Minds , their math proficiency rates quadruple compared to students who do not participate.” Another sixth-grader cello student, Isarivi Gómez, said playing music helps her deal with stress and makes her “feel much calmer.” In fact, learning music can open up other learning pathways in the brain and stimulate brain activity. Students also develop listening and communication skills by working in a small group or ensemble, build confidence from performing, and even improve math skills by learning to count music. Eleven-year-old Daniela Can Andas, taking up the violin, says the program gives her confidence to perform. “I learned to read music, and now I feel excited rather than scared going on stage.” But these advantages could not be fully achieved without a strong curriculum, and that’s where Michel shines. “It's inspired by the El Sistema system, and El Sistema USA currently supports a wide variety of music programs serving under-represented communities in our field,” says Michel. “Various modalities, including the Suzuki and Kodaly methods, are also incorporated to teach the students.”
SOUND MINDS
Sound Minds is 100% run by the California Symphony and receives full support from its talented and professional musicians. “Sound Minds is all California Symphony – a number of our soloists and composers have visited with students in the program, and teaching artists are frequent performers with CS (California Symphony),” Michel states. California Symphony also aims to provide engaging concert experiences through world-class performances and music education that inspires people of all ages.
For more information, visit: Californiasymphony.org/off-stage/for-kids/
THROW A PAWSOME BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR YOUR FURRY FRIEND
DIY DOG
BIRTHDAY PARTY
ARTICLE BY BAILEY HALL | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
DIY PARTY FAVORS FOR DOGS
Create delightful DIY party favors for your dog guests by filling small bags or boxes with goodies. Include a tennis ball for playtime fun and a selection of treats for them to enjoy. You can also add a small toy or chew for variety. These favors ensure that every pup goes home happy and tired from all the play and treats.
TREAT STATION FOR
OWNERS
Keep the human guests happy with a creative Treat Station for Owners. Use brand new, clean dog food bowls as serving dishes for snacks like chips, pretzels, and candies. Arrange the bowls on a table with a festive tablecloth and some dog-themed decorations. Label each bowl with fun names like “Puppy Chow” for trail mix or “Doggie Biscuits” for cookies.
HOW TO MAKE A DOG BIRTHDAY CAKE
A birthday party isn’t complete without a cake, even for dogs! To make a dog-friendly birthday cake, start with ingredients like peanut butter, bananas, and carrots. Mix 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of cinnamon in one bowl. In another bowl, blend 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup of peanut butter, 1 mashed banana, and 1/2 cup of grated carrots. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then pour the batter into a greased cake pan. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. Let it cool, then frost with a mixture of Greek yogurt and peanut butter. Decorate with dog treats and serve to your excited pup!
A Day of Perfect Joy
Following Francis Delivers Joy to Kids Who Need It Most
When the kids at a San Francisco elementary school returned from their April field trip, they weren't just buzzing with excitement—they were glowing. "The kids had so much fun. Seeing the joy on their faces as they participated in the different activities was priceless," the school's principal wrote in a thank-you note. "The parents were so grateful, and the kids can't stop talking about their experience. They are loving their sweaters, too!"
They brought home the sweaters—cozy hoodies—each stamped with a quote from Francis of Assisi. The field trip,
A Day of Perfect Joy, is Francis in the Schools' (FIS) signature offering. It is part of Following Francis, a non-profit organization founded in 2011 by the late Dr. Carol Weyland Conner of Walnut Creek. Over 27,000 children have participated in these trips. Though inspired by the life and values of Francis of Assisi, Following Francis is completely non-religious. "It's a universal message," says Following Francis Executive Director Terry Johnson. "If we see someone in need, we serve them as
members of our own family." While the schools initially participating in the field trip programs were Catholic, many more public schools, especially in disadvantaged neighborhoods, have since joined. Most field trips have been held in the East Bay, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and New York.
A Day of Perfect Joy is more than a field trip. It also comprises musical plays complete with original songs, dancers, and giant puppets staged by volunteers. These plays, based on the life of Francis of Assisi or other inspiring historical figures, tell stories of courage and loving service. After the play, the children are welcomed into an outdoor "faire" with face painting, flower arranging, various games, and sometimes even a petting zoo. The children also get to talk to the cast of the musical plays, and every child receives a beautifully wrapped edible gift treat.
FIS' mission goes beyond fun and games. Sometimes, principals and teachers request support for their students' families. In response, FIS has provided
individualized gift bags for each student filled with educational supplies and toys, clothing, shoes, and more. Sometimes, FIS transforms local playgrounds into open-air grocery stores where parents can get as much as two weeks' worth of free dairy, meats, fresh produce, and other essentials. During major emergencies, FIS has used its school contacts to reach out to families in need with cash gifts of $800 to $1,400. This was evident during the COVID-19 pandemic and, most recently, during the Los Angeles fires. Terry and several volunteers headed to Altadena and Pasadena and worked with two school officials to arrange personal delivery of cash gifts and gift cards for food. Nathan Pastor of the Pastor Law Group, PC, in Walnut Creek, an FIS board member, says attending Following Francis events has always been the highlight of his year. Nathan has never missed an FIS field trip, regardless of its location.
"Throughout the day, FIS showers them with love and touches their hearts, and it's not just for the participants and recipients; it's for the volunteers, too," says Nathan. "That is why I joined the board."
Visit: Followingfrancis.org/
(L-R) Terry , actress Annie Potts and volunteer Paige Peter in Los Angeles preparing boxed cash gifts for families needing assistance
Following Francis Executive Director Terry Johnson
AUGUST 6TH
Locust Street Festival
Locust Street (between Mt. Diablo Blvd and Bonanza St., and Bonanza St. to Civic Drive) and Cypress Street (between N. California Blvd. and Commercial Lane) | 5:30 PM
Don’t miss the best summer block party around: the Locust Street Festival, a lively street festival series (formerly First Wednesdays) in downtown Walnut Creek! Enjoy live music, family entertainment, local restaurants and food trucks, craft beer and wine, and handmade goods from local artisans. Admission is free, and fun is guaranteed! Visit www.walnutcreekdowntown.com for details.
AUGUST 21ST
Remodeling Seminar by Gordon Reese Design Build’s
3021 Citrus Circle #170 Walnut Creek | 5:45 PM
Thinking about remodeling? Join Gordon Reese Design Build’s remodeling seminar to learn how to avoid the most common pitfalls like hiring the wrong contractor, blowing your budget, or dealing with timeline delays and scope creep. Discover how to create a stressfree remodel that stays on budget and on track. Reserve your seat today at www.gordonreese.com/
Diablo Subaru believes that all students deserve an equal opportunity for a quality education. Millions of students in high-needs schools across the country, including right here in our local community, lack the supplies and learning materials necessary to be successful in the classroom. In fact, 92% of teachers in the United States have students whose families cannot afford school supplies, often requiring teachers to purchase resources using their own money.
Diablo Subaru of Walnut Creek is supporting students in our community through Subaru Loves Learning by adopting Ygnacio Valley High School and providing its teachers with funding to purchase the school supplies and resources they know are most needed to help their students thrive in the classroom. Subaru is the largest corporate donor to AdoptAClassroom.org. Thanks to this partnership, more than 950,000 students have been supported by Subaru and retailers like us. Diablo Subaru. More Than a Car Dealer®. #SubaruLovesLearning
