Ayon Ultrasound assisted liposuction precisely removes unwanted fat while Renuvion (J-Plasma) uses advanced plasma energy to tighten and firm skin—addressing both contour and laxity in one minimally invasive treatment. The result is a smoother, more sculpted neckline and silhouette with naturallooking definition and refined results.
Dr. Hayes B. Gladstone, MD
Walnut Creek (Tice Valley Plaza)
Call or Text: (925) 427-7000 1808 Tice Valley Blvd, Walnut Creek, CA 94595
The Subaru Love Promise Subaru and Diablo Subaru of Walnut Creek believe in making a positive impact on the communities in which we live and work. Through the five core pillars - Environment, Health, Education, Pets and Community - we aim to create change in the areas we and our owners care about the most.
Hosting an onsite adoption with Joybound People & Pets to help shelter animals find their forever home.
In honor of Earth day, and with the help from Arbor Day Foundation, we will be gifting and planting 100 trees.
Partnering with AdoptAClassroom.Org to adopt 10 classrooms at Ygnacio Valley High School and donate 10 Classroom kits.
Working with Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley-Rocketship Futuro Academy to provide new high quality coats to children in need.
With the help from Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, we are bringing warmth and comfort to patients by donating blankets and care kits to aid during treatment.
Celebrating Sunshine and Community
June always feels like a shift — longer days and a calendar that suddenly fills with everything we’ve been waiting for all year. This month, we’re leaning into that energy with our Gentlemen’s Issue.
Inside these pages, you’ll find a little something for every kind of summer day. Whether it’s exploring a local brewery trail (perfect for a weekend ride with Dad), transforming your backyard into an all-year-round entertainment space, or getting inspired by the story of a local Survivor winner, this issue is about enjoying where we are — and who we’re with.
We’re also inviting a bit of fun and community into this issue by asking you — our readers — to share your favorite pet photos. Summer is better with our four-legged companions by our side, and we can’t wait to feature some of your favorites in an upcoming issue.
June is also a time of meaningful celebration — we recognize Juneteenth, honoring the diversity, history, and resilience that shape our country.
As always, thank you for being part of this community and for supporting the local businesses and stories that make it thrive. I hope this issue inspires you to get outside, try something new, and fully enjoy the season ahead.
1-7: Visitors strolling downtown enjoyed various on-site fitness and
mini-sessions, health assessments, hydrating beverages, and energy-packed bites at the Momentum Walnut Creek event recently.
Staying Ahead of Wildfire
EmberSentry Solutions helps homeowners stay ahead of wildfire risk with expert, field-tested vulnerability assessments rooted in real fireground experience. Founded by a 16-year fire service veteran, the company identifies hidden ignition risks and delivers clear, prioritized steps to protect what matters most. With wildfire threats rising, EmberSentry provides honest, science-backed guidance—empowering families to take action early, reduce risk, and safeguard their homes, property, and legacy before it’s too late.
Visit Embersentry.com/
HOTWORX Workout
Welcome HOTWORX to the Walnut Creek community! Conveniently located on Tice Valley Boulevard just outside Rossmoor, HOTWORX offers a unique 24/7 infrared sauna workout experience that combines heat, exercise, and recovery. From yoga and pilates to high-intensity interval training, members can enjoy efficient, results-driven sessions designed to fit busy schedules. It’s a fresh, modern approach to fitness and wellness. Stop by to see what the buzz is about and experience the heat for yourself!
Father’s Day is the perfect excuse to slow down, get outside, and spend time together, and the East Bay’s brewery scene makes it easy. The welcoming spaces with great food options, and plenty of room for kids to hang out make it easy for Dads to enjoy a well-earned pint!
Whether you hit one stop or turn it into a full-day adventure, here’s your go-to guide to family-friendly breweries across the East Bay.
WALNUT CREEK
Calicraft Brewing Company
A longtime local favorite with a spacious outdoor beer garden that’s perfect for groups. Rotating food trucks, picnic tables, and a relaxed vibe make this an easy win for families.
Barebottle Brewing Company
Right in the heart of downtown, Barebottle brings an energetic, community-driven feel with creative small-batch beers and frequent events.
LAFAYETTE & MORAGA
Headlands Brewing Company
A cozy neighborhood brewery with approachable beers and a welcoming atmosphere—great for a laid-back afternoon stop.
Western Flyer Brewing
One of Lafayette’s newer additions, Western Flyer Brewing brings a fresh, modern feel to the local brewery scene. The space is bright and welcoming, with a laid-back atmosphere that’s great for families. Known for its well-balanced, easy-drinking beers and rotating selection, it’s an ideal stop to unwind after a day out in Lamorinda or to kick off your own East Bay brew trail.
Canyon Club Brewery
More than just a brewery, this spot offers a full menu alongside house-brewed beers—ideal for a sit-down family meal after a hike or day out.
CONCORD
Side Gate Brewery & Beer Garden
A hidden gem with a large outdoor space, frequent food trucks, and plenty of room for kids to move around while parents relax.
MARTINEZ
Del Cielo Brewing Company
Located in historic downtown Martinez, this brewery is known for its creative lineup and strong community vibe— perfect for a casual afternoon stop.
DANVILLE
Danville Brewing Company
A lively downtown brewpub with a full menu, house-made beers, and a great patio scene—an easy place to wrap up your brew trail.
SAN RAMON
Fieldwork Brewing Company
A go-to destination for East Bay beer lovers, Fieldwork pairs a wide-ranging tap list with a polished, family-friendly setting. With everything from crisp lagers to hop-forward IPAs and rotating seasonal releases, there’s something for every palate. The San Ramon location also offers a full food menu and plenty of seating, making it an easy stop whether you’re popping in for a quick pint or settling in for a relaxed afternoon with the family.
MAKE IT A DAY
You don’t need to hit every stop to make it special. Pick a couple of nearby breweries, map out a simple route, and build in time to relax along the way. Many of these spots offer food trucks, open seating, and casual environments that make it easy to bring the whole family.
This Father’s Day, skip the tie and give dad something better: fresh air, great beer, and time well spent together.
STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY
Photo by Albena Ilieva
Inspiration for your best local life.
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Hometown Hero: “Survivor” Winner Savannah Louie
From Walnut Creek to On Camera
Savannah Louie is no stranger to television. From competing on the CBS reality show “Survivor” to delivering hard-hitting news as a former broadcast journalist, she has a natural on-air presence.
But her drive to succeed was forged long before being in the spotlight.
“Growing up in Walnut Creek built the foundation for my work ethic,” said Louie.
The petite 31-year-old shared a little-known local fact: she was a senior at Las Lomas High School when she first tried out for Survivor
The then-17-year-old made it partway through the rigorous process but ultimately didn’t make the cut.
Fourteen years later, Louie not only landed a spot on the popular show — she won.
Louie took the title of Sole Survivor last year following her stint as one of 18 castaways in the Mamanuca Islands in Fiji during season 49.
She also made history with her “challenge skills,” tying the record for the most individual immunity challenges won by a woman in one season.
What ultimately propelled Louie to go the distance and take home the $1 million prize was the overwhelming support of her family, friends, and the community.
ARTICLE BY DEBBIE COHEN PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF SAVANNAH LOUIE
Walnut Creek was home until Louie left for college to study journalism at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. She credits her parents for encouraging her to participate in everything she could.
“Going to school in Walnut Creek was a privilege and truly set me up for success,” said Louie.
Although Louie currently lives in Atlanta, Georgia, she returns to the Bay Area to visit several times a year.
Sometimes, she nostalgically rekindles her old love for hiking in the hills or taking BART out on explorations.
Last November, she came home for Thanksgiving and attended a Survivor watch party at Bourbon Highway, a country-themed bar and restaurant in downtown Walnut Creek.
Photo Credit: Robert Voets/ CBS.
“It was a blast, probably my favorite watch party of the season! A bunch of people from my high school came out, along with family and family friends.”
Walnut Creek has always felt like a close-knit community for Louie. Today, she hopes her win inspires other young people to go out and chase their dreams, “even if those dreams seem crazy!”
Looking back at her performance on Survivor, Louie revealed there were moments when she struggled to envision her path to victory. But she always felt it was possible.
When the show finally concluded and the results were read, her longtime dream of winning became a reality.
“I actually did it. It still feels surreal to me!”
After the show wrapped, Louie was selected for the subsequent milestone “All-Star” 50th season, featuring returning players.
She had only 10 days to recover between back-to-back filming. Although she was eventually voted off the show, she was grateful for the opportunity to compete against contestants she regarded as legends.
“I grew up watching these people — rooting for and against them. It was the ultimate super fan experience!” she said.
In her personal life, Louie has been dating a software engineer and spends quality time traveling with her family. She is also in her “self-care era.”
“I’ve made recovery part of my daily routine. Where I used to have a ‘go-go-go’ mindset, I now make time for rest. Instead of the intense workouts I was doing pre-Survivor, I do a lot of long walks and pilates. I love a bubble bath. And I’m trying to fill more of my free time with puzzles and books, reducing screen time.”
Photo Credit: Robert Voets/CBS.
Father's Day Gift Guide
LALO isn’t just any spirit, it’s a testament to craftsmanship and family legacy. The brand was founded by third-generation tequila-maker Lalo González in honor of his late father. The premium blanco is crafted with just three simple ingredients - water, agave and champagne yeast - and is the perfect gift for the dad who appreciates quality spirits. It is an ideal tequila to sip neat, blends seamlessly in cocktails from margaritas and palomas to tequila-based espresso martinis and old fashioneds. LALO is available nationwide at select retailers and online via lalospirits.com
This full-bodied Kentucky straight bourbon is patiently aged for nine years in charred American white oak barrels. Bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), it delivers a bold, well-rounded flavor with big notes of oak, caramel and fruit. This bourbon is perfect sipped straight, cooled slightly with an ice cube or used in a favorite food or cocktail recipe.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LALO AND KNOB CREEK
THOUGHTFUL GIFTS FOR EVERY DAD
Father’s Day is a chance to celebrate the dads, grandfathers, and father figures who show up every day. Here is a curated gift guide to make him feel appreciated.
LALO HIGH PROOF
LALO’s 2025 High Proof is a limited-edition release, made for collectors, tequila connoisseurs, and anyone who appreciates a rare luxury find under $100. It’s the brand’s first-ever distilled-toproof liquid, bringing forth the agave-forward aromas and flavors of LALO’s distillery. Perfect for the father looking to upgrade his spirits collection and seeking something truly special.
KNOB CREEK BLENDER’S EDITION 01
This is a limited-edition Kentucky straight bourbon, the first in a new series celebrating the art of blending. Aged a minimum of 10 years and bottled at 106 proof, it was carefully hand-selected by the expert blending team to deliver a rich, full-bodied experience that unlocks the sweeter side of the Knob Creek flavor profile. With notes of vanilla bean, confectionery sweetness and a long, soft finish, it’s best sipped straight or over a single ice cube. Blender's Edition 01 is available nationwide for a limited time. Visit KnobCreek.com
Photograph by Jessica Brydson Photography
Wealth, Wisdom, and the Long View
True wealth management isn’t just about the numbers on a quarterly statement—it reflects the responsibility we carry for our future selves, families, and even our communities.
In my 40 years as an investment advisor, I’ve watched markets rise and fall, technologies emerge and vanish, but one trait separates the successful investor from the rest: patience.
In an era of high-speed algorithms and 24-hour news cycles moving markets by the minute, it’s important to maintain a
disciplined, long-term perspective. It means tuning out the noise, resisting the pull of trends, and trusting a well-thought-out plan.
Successful investing is less about predicting the perfect moment to buy or sell and more about staying invested. I have often said it is “time in the market, not market timing.”
Every investment carries some level of inherent risk, so minimizing risk should come first, before chasing returns. Risk is the permanent loss of the principal.
It’s also vital to have “invest-sense” or to apply common sense to investing. The key is to focus on what you know and understand. Whether it’s products you use, companies you trust, or industries you’re familiar with, clarity matters. As Warren Buffett’s famous adage goes, “If you don’t understand it, don’t buy it.”
It’s also pertinent to choose the right financial advisor.
Before placing trust in someone to guide your financial future, it’s worth asking some thoughtful questions: What is their investment philosophy? How do they select investments for clients? How are they compensated? And beyond investments alone, how do they approach comprehensive financial planning?
Whether I am counseling a young professional just starting their journey or a retiree looking to secure a legacy, the goal remains the same: clarity.
Wealth should be a tool for freedom, not a source of anxiety. Part of our responsibility is to educate the next generation, ensuring they understand that wealth is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires a steady hand, a clear head, and a commitment to one’s principles.
John Gardner is the founder and principal of Blackhawk Wealth Advisors and has been a professional investment advisor for over 40 years. John can be reached at jg@blackhawkwealthadvisors.com or visit Blackhawkwealthadvisors.com
The Key to Financial Success: Patience, Discipline, and Clarity
ARTICLE BY JOHN GARDNER
OUTDOOR GREAT ROOMS:
CREATING A YEAR-ROUND BACKYARD LIVING SPACE
Imagine a Saturday evening in October. The sun is dipping behind the hills, but your backyard is just coming to life. On one side, the “big game” is glowing on a cinematic screen as friends cheer from deep-seated lounge chairs. Nearby, the kids are laughing on the lawn while the adults gather around a stone island, wine in hand, watching a homemade pizza slide into a wood-fired oven. The air is crisp, but the hidden heaters overhead keep the space perfectly cozy. There is no rushing inside when the sun goes down; the conversation flows as naturally as the evening breeze.
This isn’t a vacation resort—it’s the modern Outdoor Great Room.
In my 50 years of observing how families truly live, the most impactful shift I’ve seen is the move away from the “seasonal patio” toward a permanent, year-round living wing. We are no longer just “going outside,” we are extending the heart of the home into the fresh air, creating a sanctuary designed for connection 365 days a year.
While every family’s vision is unique, a truly successful outdoor space is a balance of high-functioning elements tailored to your lifestyle. As you dream about your own retreat, consider these as your palette of inspiration:
• The Professional Culinary Suite: Move beyond the solitary grill. Modern hosting centers on “social cooking”—integrated pizza ovens, specialty burners, and bartending stations that keep the host engaged with the guests, not isolated in the kitchen.
• All-Season Architectural Shelter: Whether it’s a grand open-beam pavilion or a seamless roof extension, permanent cover is the key to year-round utility. Combined with recessed heaters, ceiling fans, or a signature stone fireplace, you can create a “micro-climate” that is as comfortable on Christmas eve as it is in July.
• Invisible Entertainment: High-fidelity sound and “stealth” media are the new standards. Imagine massive theater screens that tuck away into the
architecture when not in use, or zoned audio that provides a rich backdrop for music without overwhelming the conversation.
• Atmosphere by Design: Lighting is the secret to a high-end feel. Smart LED systems can transition the mood from a bright “hosting mode” to a soft, amber “lounge glow” at the touch of a button.With an endless array of options, the secret to a “no-surprises” result is a disciplined plan These complex spaces require serious infrastructure—gas lines, high-amperage electrical, and precision drainage.
Whether you envision a high-tech sports lounge or a serene family sanctuary, the most important step is a thorough diagnostic phase. When you prioritize engineering and flow before the first stone is laid, you ensure your backyard is a predictable, professional environment designed for decades of memories.
Happy Remodeling!
Delivering Excellence in Dentistry for 40 Years
Your search for a Walnut Creek dentist ends here. We offer exceptional dental care with personalized treatment plans for you and your family.
At Procopio Towle Dental Office, we prioritize your oral health in a warm, family-friendly environment. Our mission is to provide top-quality care with a gentle touch for a healthy, beautiful smile.
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Root Canal Therapy | Veneers | Same-Day Crowns
procopiodental.com | (925) 933-5677
BTizianaProcopioDDS 2229 Olympic Blvd, Walnut Creek, CA 94595
Explore 80+ Outdoor Artworks at the Ruth Bancroft Garden and Nursery
SCULPTURE IN THE GARDEN RETURNS TO WALNUT CREEK
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA AVILA
This summer, art and nature come together once again at Sculpture in the Garden, returning to the Ruth Bancroft Garden and Nursery. Now in its 32nd year, the beloved outdoor exhibit transforms the garden’s 3.5-acre landscape into a thoughtfully curated, immersive outdoor gallery.
Opening June 13 and running through August 9, this year’s exhibition is the largest one yet, featuring more than 80 sculptures by 42 artists. Among the artists featured in this year’s exhibition are Antonio Inserni, Xuan My Ho, Karen Stanton, Richard Starks, Jeff Owen, Akuda Fanizani, Goodson Mlera, Melody Fombe, and many more.
From steel and glass to mosaic and mixed media, the collection offers a diverse visual experience with something for everyone to enjoy!
Visitors can explore the exhibit during regular garden hours, Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with admission included in the standard entry fee. Garden members enjoy complimentary access.
For families, the exhibit offers an added layer of discovery. Children can pick up a scavenger hunt at the kiosk, explore the garden while searching for sculptures, and win a prize if they can find them all.
Beyond its visual appeal, the exhibit also supports a larger purpose. All featured sculptures are available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting both the artists and the Ruth Bancroft Garden’s ongoing efforts in preservation, education, and community programming.
Set among bold agaves, towering yuccas, and soft succulents, each piece will invite visitors to slow down and experience art and gardens from a new perspective.
The season begins with an Opening Night on June 13 at 5:30 p.m. Guests who attend will be the first to explore and purchase artwork, enjoy drinks and light bites, and meet some of the exhibiting artists. A series of after-hours Sip and Stroll evenings will follow on June 26, July 10, and July 24 at 5:30 p.m. Tickets for special events are available in advance online at Ruthbancroftgarden.org
Protect and Preserve
Expert Tips to Care for Outdoor Patio Furniture and BBQs Year-Round
Outdoor patio furniture and appliances take a beating from the sun, rain, and daily use. With a little regular care—cleaning, covering, and seasonal maintenance—you can keep it looking fresh and extend its lifespan for years of comfortable outdoor living. We speak with Wayne Zimmerman, the Downtown Walnut Creek Ace Hardware Store Manager, who shares tips for protecting them year-round.
1. Clean Regularly
• BBQs: Brush grill grates with a non-metal bristle brush after each use and deep-clean burners, drip trays, and interiors every few weeks to prevent grease buildup and flare-ups.
• Furniture: Wipe down surfaces weekly with mild soap and water to remove dirt, pollen, and sunscreen residue. Avoid harsh cleaners that can damage finishes.
2. Use Protective Covers
• Invest in weather-resistant covers for both grills and furniture when not in use. Covers protect against sun damage, dust, bird droppings, and unexpected summer rain, significantly extending lifespan.
3. Shield from Sun and Heat
• Prolonged UV exposure can fade cushions, crack plastic, and dry out wood.
• When possible, place furniture in shaded areas, use umbrellas, or rotate pieces during the season to reduce uneven fading. Store removable cushions indoors or in an outdoor storage shed during heat waves.
4. Maintain Materials Properly
• Wood: Apply sealant or oil once or twice during summer to prevent cracking and warping.
• Metal: Inspect for rust and touch up chipped areas with protective paint.
• Wicker/Resin: Rinse occasionally to prevent brittleness and discoloration.
5. Safety and Function Checks
• BBQ: Regularly check gas hoses, connections, and ignition systems for leaks or wear. Clean vents to ensure proper airflow.
• Furniture: Tighten loose screws or bolts and inspect frames to prevent wobbling or collapse during use.
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
JUNE 2026
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JUNE 6TH
The 43rd Annual Walnut Creek Art & Wine Festival
1375 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek | 12:00 PM
Start the summer with a weekend full of fun for the whole family! Experience Civic Park, packed with a large selection of wines, a craft beer garden, festival foods, a kids’ zone, and two stages with nonstop live music. There’s something for everyone! Visit https://www.walnut-creek.com/ art-wine-festival-2026
JUNE 18TH
Walnut Creek Uncorked
Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek | 5:00 PM
Spend a lovely summer evening sipping your way through downtown while strolling between participating locations, listening to live music, enjoying food tastings, and sampling a variety of wines, beers, spirits at Walnut Creek Uncorked, a Sip, Savor & Stroll extravaganza. Tickets: $65 include 30+ tastings, signature glass and commemorative tote bag. Visit https://walnutcreekdowntown.com/ do/walnut-creek-uncorked-2026
JULY 8TH
Locust Street Festival
Locust Street, Walnut Creek. | 5:00 PM
Live Music, Beer & Wine, Artisan Vendors, Gourmet Food & Kids Activities. Mark your calendars for an epic street festival series, once a month on Wednesday evenings in July and August. Join these two vibrant street festivals in the heart of downtown Walnut Creek! This is a free public event, and all are welcome... including your furry friends. Visit: https://walnutcreekdowntown. com/events/locust-street-festival
