Danville Living CA | May 2026

May CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Fri., May 1- Sun., May 3

Tri-Valley Artist Studio Tour

@ Various Locations

Discover the creativity of our region during the Tri-Valley Artist Studio Tour! This special open studios event invites the public to step inside working artists’ studios and experience art where it’s made. Meet the artists, see works in progress, learn about their techniques and inspiration, and enjoy conversations about the creative process. Whether you’re an art lover, curious explorer, or looking for a unique piece for your home, this is a wonderful opportunity to connect with local artists and perhaps take home an original work of art. It’s a fun, welcoming way to explore the vibrant arts community in the Tri-Valley. Also open Friday, May 1, 10 AM–5 PM are many of the private home studios with one to five artists each. Danville artists to highlight; Josef Twirbut, Carlos Martínez, David Laurence Gates, Mark T. Ebner, John A. Barry, Leslie Ouyang, Terin Christensen, Kathleen Gadway, and Tricia Grame. Visit https://www.allianceforthevisualarts. org/ for more information.

Cost: Free

Sun., May 3

Devil Mountain Run

@ Historic Downtown Danville

In 2026, we’re counting down to 50 years of fitness, fun, and community! The 2026 Devil Mountain Run features brand-new 5K and 10K courses, finisher medals for everyone, and a new beneficiary — the Down Syndrome Connection of the Bay Area. Join the movement that moves people — body, heart, and community. Free tech shirts will be given to the first 1000 registered/ paid runners. Cash prizes for Top winners of the mile of truth. Overall and age group winner awards for 5K and 10K. The Mile of Truth has once again been chosen to be a grand prix championship event for the PAUSATF. The Kids Fun Run and the popular Buddi Love Mile returns. This is an event for the entire family so bring out everybody. The community loves it, the kids will love it, so will your pet! Visit https:// devilmtnrun.com/ for more information.

Cost: Varies per race registration

Time: 6:30am-12PM

Thurs., May 7

Sip & Stroll

@Historic Downtown Danville

We’re excited to invite you to join us for the Sip & Stroll in Downtown Danville and the Danville Livery. Our Wine Strolls have been signature events for the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce for the last 20 years. It’s a beautiful evening to network and connect with family and friends while strolling, tasting, and shopping locally. Your Ticket Includes: Commemorative Wine Glass, Trolley Service between Downtown and the Danville Livery, Curated In-store Sips and Tastings, Sturdy Tote Bag, Live Music, Access to all Participating Retailers.

Cost: $65, $20 Designated Driver Time: 5:30PM-8:30PM

Sat., May 16

Art in the Park

@Oak Hill Park

Children and their families are invited to partake in this chance to be creative and messy! Budding artists will be encouraged to try both process-based art and take-home crafts. This is a great opportunity for families to spend a relaxing afternoon making artistic and imaginative creations in a park setting.

Cost: $10

Time: 1PM-3PM

Sat., May 23

Music at the Plaza

@Prospect Park Plaza

The Music at the Plaza free concert series continues with James Patrick Regan. Stop by Prospect Park Plaza at 396 Hartz Ave and enjoy an afternoon of live music, sunshine, and community in the heart of Downtown Danville. While you’re here, grab a bite to eat or do a little shopping at one of the great local small businesses just steps away from the plaza. There’s more family fun coming your way this summer — get the full lineup at danville.ca.gov/summer.

Cost: Free Time: 4PM-6PM

Where residents find and recommend the best local,

Mon., May 25

Memorial Day Ceremony

@ Oak Hill Park

The Vietnam Veterans of Diablo Valley are hosting a Memorial Day Ceremony at Oak Hill Park in Danville to honor and remember local veterans of the Armed Forces of the United States who died in service, and their families. Music starts at 10:30am and the ceremony starts at 11:00am. In addition, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and local Veterans groups will light the Mount Diablo Beacon during a ceremony at the Veterans Memorial Building at 8:00pm.

Cost: Free Time: 10:30am

Every Saturday Farmers’ Market

@ Railroad Ave. Municipal Parking Lot Downtown Get the freshest seasonal fare at Danville Certified Farmers Market. You’ll find fruits and vegetables direct from local farmers, along with fresh cut flowers, seafood, meats, local honey, and baked goods. More information at www.pcfma.com. Time: 9am-1pm

Cost: Free

Publication Team

Publisher: Jo Peek, Danville Resident since 2014

Content Coordinator: Anne Angstenberger, Resident since 2006

Designer: Meagan Cowle

Contributing Photographer: Kim Lind Photography

Advertising

Contact: Jo Peek

Email: JPeek@bestversionmedia.com

Feedback/Ideas/Submissions:

Have feedback, ideas, or submissions? We are always happy to hear from you! Deadlines for submissions are the 10th of each month. Go to www.bestversionmedia. com and click “Submit Content.” You may also email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to: aangstenberger@bestversionmedia.com.

Hello Neighbors!

We are in full swing “May-hem” in Danville. With end of school year events, graduations, youth sports championship games, there seems to be a celebration every day! There is also one very special person to celebrate this month...Mom! Perhaps you have plans to take your Mom out to a nice brunch in downtown, gift her a spa treatment, send her a beautiful flower bouquet, or maybe just take over the cooking duties for the day. Our Danville Living team wishes all the Moms in town a wonderful Mother’s Day!

Monique Moufarrej is our feature resident for our May issue. You will love learning about her story growing up in Danville and her successful career in the culinary world. She has come full circle and brought her passion back home to downtown Danville as Executive Chef and owner of a new Mediterranean Beer Garden on Hartz Ave. We also have a great collection of community articles and expert contributions for all our readers to enjoy.

Expert Contributors

Advertising - Website, SEO & Digital Marketing

Danville Living CA

Jo Peek

925-272-8246

DanvilleLivingCA@gmail.com www.DanvilleLivingCA.com

Dermatology

Wallach Derma Center

Adam Wallach, M.D. 925-837-8848 www.WallachDermaCenter.com

Doulas

DOULAS by the BAY

Shakila Marando 415-650-1616 (Text)

Fitness

The Exercise Coach San Ramon

Jennifer Ringenberg 925-378-5941

jennifer.ringenberg@exercisecoach-usa.com www.exercisecoach.com/san-ramon

Jewelry

Highline Custom Jewelry

Hasan Kader 510-786-4505 www.highlinecustomjewelry.com

Life Coach

EYH College/Life Coach

Christina Dalton, MS, MCC, Master Certified Coach 925-872-4726

Christina@EYHLifeCoach.com www.eyhcollegecoach.com/

Mortgage RateSecure

Gurp Bhandal 925 786 8915

gurp@ratesecure.com www.ratesecure.com

Pilates

Mighty Pilates Danville 925-486-1140

danvilleinstructormanager@mightypilates.com www.mightypilates.com/danville

Real Estate

Lisa Hopkins-Cochran Compass

DRE#01111126

Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, SRES® 925-964-5010

Lisa.Hopkins@Compass.com www.LoveHomes.pro

Remodeling

America’s Dream Homeworks

Vlad Chernioglo (916) 739-0996 vladc@dreamhomeworks.com

Tree Service

Terry Powell

Terry’s Tree Service (925) 449-2087 https://terrystreeservice.com/

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

Over the last 10 years, Jo Peek has been helping local businesses, nonprofits, charities and schools connect with our community on a deeper level. She works with each client individually to customize a marketing campaign to suit their needs, timeline and budget.

At Wallach Derma Center, our top priority is providing first-rate dermatologic health care. We have built a stellar reputation by developing relationships with our patients. We strive to understand your concerns, to answer the questions you have, and to develop an optimal, personalized treatment plan for you. Because of our strong emphasis on continuing education, we are able to offer you the latest, most advanced dermatologic treatments, with meticulous attention to both your good health and appearance. We have extensive experience in the treatment of a wide array of skin conditions in patients of all ages.

At DOULAS by the BAY, our mission is to provide peace of mind while expanding access to thoughtful, evidence-based doula care. Through our experience, attention to detail, and deep commitment to families, we support parents, strengthen communities, and create meaningful pathways for doulas to grow. We specialize in education and support for families preparing for birth, adjusting to new parenthood, and caring for their newborns during the early weeks.

Are you someone that values your time and doesn’t want to spend 2 hours on a gym routine? We offer high-efficiency strength training in our private studio with results that can be achieved with no more than two 20-minute sessions per week. Our program focuses on total body fitness through customized muscular conditioning using cutting-edge realtime digital feedback with our proprietary personalized strength technology, Exerbotics ®. Within weeks, you’ll start restoring strength and muscle mass, leading to increased energy, improved cardiovascular health, and more.

We started with an aim to make sure we will shine in the Bay Area and beat the prices from any jeweler. With over ten years in business, our expert staff and superior products will make you a lifetime customer. Serving all of your needs from our wide variety stock to our unparalleled custom work you will find a home with Highline Custom Jewelry.

Christina has serviced the high school community for 39 years as: Lead Counselor, Math Dept. Chair, Academy Coordinator and Educational Trainer. As a certified executive Life Coach credentialed from UC Davis, Christina gives her clients a powerful edge. From developing a diverse college list, to creating a competitive profile with dynamic essays and interviewing strategy, Christina has guided hundreds of students into top universities throughout the United States.

Gurp Bhandal is the Founder and CEO of RateSecure, a mortgage company on a mission to make the home financing process easier and more cost-effective for homebuyers and owners. Gurp has an extensive background in the finance and mortgage industry, having previously held seniorleadership positions at major financial institutions. Gurp’s passion for finance and technology, combined with his vision of making mortgages more accessible and affordable, led him to create RateSecure. Gurp’s vision is to make the mortgage process simpler and more accessible for everyone. He is committed to providing best-in-class services and helping customers achieve the dream of homeownership.

Mighty Pilates brings a fresh, energetic approach to classical Pilates, combining traditional technique with a modern intensity that challenges both body and mind. Led by a team of dynamic, highly rated certified instructors, our classes range from beginner-friendly Foundations sessions to advanced Power Pilates workouts for seasoned enthusiasts. We also offer unique experiences like Mighty Moonlight (a candlelit stretch class) and Happy Hour Pilates (complete with a postclass toast!). At Mighty Pilates, every class is designed to elevate your energy, strengthen your body, and leave you feeling inspired and empowered.

Lisa’s consultative and solutions based approach to real estate sales has been impressing her clients for 35 years. Lisa is an East Bay native & longtime Danville resident, where she’s been involved in the community. Lisa has earned the Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® designation and is also a Certified Trust & Probate Specialist. Lisa takes pride in excellent communication skills, creativity, attention to details, and empathy, to provide the ultimate customer experience and successful transactions. Contact Lisa for “Service from the Heart.”

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.

Terry’s Tree Service, Inc. provides a complete range of tree services for residential, commercial, and industrial clients in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. In addition to planting, trimming, shaping and removing all types of trees, the company offers specialized services, including yard clean-up, pet rescue, fire prevention, brush chipping, stump grinding, and more.

Wealth Management

Matt Forrey

The Forrey Wealth Management Group 925-279-1701 www.mattforrey.com

The 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.

Meet Monique Moufarrej A Culinary Journey Root ed in Family Traditions

By Anne Angstenberger, Resident since 2006

provided by Monique Moufarrej

Monique Moufarrej’s family began their journey to Westside Danville when she was just 7 years old. Her mother fell in love with hearing the church bells from St. Isidore while they were touring their property, “and the rest was history.” They had found the perfect home to raise Monique and her two brothers, all of whom graduated from San Ramon Valley High School. Coming from a Lebanese household, Monique was consistently reminded of the importance of family and food, placing an emphasis on “a sense of hospitality and the importance of nourishment though cooking.” Upon graduating high school in 2010, it was only fitting that Monique decided to attend the Culinary School at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in St. Helena, California. After graduation, she found herself moving across the county to New York City where she joined the team at Del Posto (Michelin starred), under the acclaimed chef, Mark Ladner. Eventually working her way up the ranks and becoming one of the youngest Sous Chefs at the New York Times four-star restaurant, Monique felt the calling to move back home to California to be closer to family and immerse herself in the rich and vibrant culinary landscape in San Francisco.

Joining the team at Rich Table in San Francisco, Monique was instrumental in helping the restaurant earn its first Michelin Star. Then in 2018, she played a pivotal role in the opening team of Angler SF, the second restaurant of Chef Skenes and Saison Hospitality. Quite quickly, Angler SF won the prestigious award of Esquire’s Best New Restaurant in America, and a Michelin star within its first year. Monique would eventually be known as “Chef Mo” and due to her leadership, positivity, and exceptional skill set, she was promoted to Executive Sous Chef. Armed with realworld experience and the skills to pursue a lifelong goal, Monique began to focus on opening her own restaurant. She began expanding her knowledge of business operations and beverages while planning her return home to Danville.

Many locals may recognize Monique’s parents as the longtime owners of Incontro Ristorante in Downtown Danville. One might say that their passion for food and community paved the way for “Chef Mo” to open Albi’s as their sister restaurant. Albi’s Danville has been a dream in the making since Monique left home on her culinary adventure at the age of 18. Honoring her Lebanese roots, “The Middle Eastern Beer Garden (with lots of wine too!) is inspired by the vibrant spirit of the Levant and rooted in California’s seasonal bounty. Named after the Arabic word for “my heart”, Albi’s is a love letter to gathering - a place for connection.” Not only will Albi’s be a place for amazing

food, drinks and gathering, but will be an opportunity for Monique to become even more involved in the community that raised her. She is an active member of the Downtown Danville Business Owners and Managers (an informal group that collaborates on ideas for how to support and strengthen our downtown), but also looks forward to giving back and donating to local community schools and events. She is extremely excited to be back in Danville and continuing the tradition of blending high quality experiences and meaningful community involvement.

While Monique remains quite busy preparing for the imminent opening and busy summer months at Albi’s, she of course takes some time to recharge. Traveling is also a passion for Monique… some of her favorite destinations have been to San Sebastian, Copenhagen, Beirut and Tokyo. Closer to home, she frequently heads south to Los Angeles to visit her brother and “dive into the incredible restaurant scene” in Southern California. When she is back home in the Bay Area, Monique loves spending her free time exploring new local restaurants with her partner (who is

also a chef), perusing farmers markets, spending time with her family, playing Backgammon, Uno, Dominos and, of course, cooking! Monique’s message to her Danville neighbors and friends is simple; “I’m so grateful to all of my neighbors that have welcomed me back and continue to support my ambitions since I was young. I can’t wait to share my new business with all of them.”

Do you know a neighbor who has a story to share? Nominate your neighbor to be featured in one of our upcoming issues! Contact us at aangstenberger@bestversionmedia.com.

From Achievement to Alignment: Designing Your Next Chapter

By Christina Dalton MS, PPS, MCC, EYH Life/College Coach

When I turned 45, with one child at UCLA and another child exploring her college options, I finally acknowledged the void that had been building within me. I felt I did everything right from child rearing to establishing a great career. Yet, this void haunted me, making me consider that there must be something more.

For much of your life, the measure was achievement.

Degrees earned. Promotions secured. Homes built. Children raised. Calendars mastered with military precision. I proved myself capable, reliable, indispensable. I showed up early, stayed late, and carried more than my share — often gracefully.

And then, somewhere in midlife, the question quietly changes. It’s no longer “What else can I accomplish?”

It becomes “Does this still align?”

For many accomplished women in communities like Danville, this shift is subtle but seismic. The drive to prove begins to feel less compelling than the desire to choose. Not because ambition disappears — but because discernment deepens.

Achievement builds a résumé. Alignment builds a life.

May is not about starting over. It’s about refining. You know your strengths. You understand your limits. You’ve learned, sometimes the hard way, which obligations drain you and which roles expand you. With that clarity comes a rare luxury: intention.

Shifting from proving to choosing may look like reassessing a career that once defined you. Perhaps you remain in leadership, but on your terms — mentoring more, grinding less. Perhaps you pivot entirely, turning a long-held passion into meaningful work. The question is no longer “Can I do it?” but “Do I want to?” This realization woke me up to the question: How do I define true gratification?

Alignment also reshapes relationships.

Marriages evolve when children leave home. Conversations deepen. Or they demand honesty long postponed. Some women rediscover partnership in new ways — traveling together, building shared philanthropic goals, exploring interests beyond parenting. Others find strength in independence, embracing solo travel or new social circles with curiosity instead of hesitation.

Friendships, too, become more intentional. There is less tolerance for comparison or competition and more appreciation for authenticity. I began to curate my inner circle carefully — women who inspire growth, laughter, perspective. Community becomes less about proximity and more about resonance. And then there is service.

Many high-achieving women feel called to give back in ways that

feel personal and strategic — board service, nonprofit leadership, mentoring young entrepreneurs, supporting local arts or education initiatives. Contribution shifts from obligation to impact. It becomes less about filling a seat and more about fulfilling a purpose.

Consider what wellness means: Fitness is no longer punishment for indulgence or preparation for an event. Strength training, long walks, yoga, time outdoors — these are not vanity projects. They are investments in clarity and longevity.

Designing your next chapter requires courage — not the loud, riskeverything kind, but the quieter bravery of self-honesty. It requires asking difficult questions: I asked myself: What am I holding onto out of habit? Where am I overcommitted? What would I pursue if approval were irrelevant?

May is a fitting backdrop for this reflection. It is a month of transition — graduations, weddings, celebrations of what has been built. But it is also a threshold into summer, into light, into possibility.

Now comes the deeper work — crafting a life that feels as good on the inside as it looks on paper. Thoughtfully designed. Carefully edited. Authentically yours.

If you are experiencing this void, this curiosity for a new you, like I did, let’s partner and explore this next chapter together. I am the Coach who has been where you are at - https://eyhlifecoach.com/ Call today.

Christina Dalton is the Principal of EYH Life Coach. She applies her own personal and career transitions along with several degrees and credentials to provide insight and knowledge into the coaching experience. Christina handpicks her staff, all of whom are ICF credentialed and have unique experiences to create invaluable coaching sessions.

Top Features Local Home Buyers Are Looking For

By Lisa Hopkins-Cochran, REALTOR® at Compass

Whetheryou’re preparing your home for sale, shopping for a new home or thinking of making some home improvements, you may want to consider what’s appealing to most buyers. As always, location usually tops the list, in one form or another.

Like all other preferences, location can be subjective, depending on the buyer’s needs. Walkability, easy access to public transportation and/or highways and excellent school districts continue to be high on many buyer’s lists. Locations with views, privacy, proximity to parks, trails and other recreational options are also a big plus, as are quiet, peaceful settings. The size and type of home often factors in to what the most desirable location may be. For example, proximity to schools and parks might be a much bigger plus in an average 4 bedroom home, than it would be for a 1-2 bedroom condo. That small condo might be most appealing or valued, if it is close to public transportation, such as BART.

We’ve seen floor plans in new and remodeled homes adapted to buyer’s lifestyles. Older more traditional layouts saw a decline in demand, beginning in the 1990’s. Buyers often gravitated toward the “open concept” designs, that at least combined the kitchen with an eating area and living space. The 2000’s brought an even bigger “open concept,” with many homes eliminating the traditional formal living and dining rooms altogether. The new designs simply offered a “great room,” with all shared living space in one open room. The result was large open spaces that were often visually appealing. For some buyers the visual appeal was strong, but the idea of only having one room for all shared activities, was not. This became even more of an issue in 2020, when most people were doing everything at home, due to the pandemic. Since 2020, the demand for some sort of a “bonus” room, as well as home office space has become much greater. Buyers still want the openness of a “great room,” but having other usable rooms outside of bedrooms or formal rooms has become a priority.

The cost of home improvement projects has gone up considerably in recent years. In addition, fewer home buyers have the time or desire to take on these

projects. The result is that most home buyers prefer a home that is turnkey. They value the idea of being able to move in and not have to deal with any repairs or improvements. As a result, new or remodeled homes with neutral, quality finishes tend to sell faster and for higher prices, than homes that are dated, or overly personalized.

Wildfires and changes to insurance policies have also had a big impact on home values and desirability. For some buyers, choosing a location that is not in a fire hazard zone has become preferable, mostly due to concerns over the availability and cost of insurance. Some buyers will also factor in the value of home hardening features, where fire resistant materials have been used, along with landscaping and hardscaping that follow best practices for protecting homes from fire loss.

Solar energy systems, water efficient landscaping and energy efficient appliances and home systems are appreciated by most buyers, as well as charging stations for electric vehicles. High quality materials also add appeal.

If you are reading these suggestions and none of the most desirable features sound like your home, don’t panic. Not every home buyer wants the same thing, and some would love the opportunity to remodel and do things their own way. If you’re thinking about selling, reach out to your trusted REALTOR® for an assessment of what you should or should not do, in preparation for a sale. You’ll want to make sure that your plans give you the best return on investment and increase the value and appeal of your home.

Lisa’s consultative and solutions based approach to real estate has been impressing her clients for 35 years. Lisa is an East Bay native and longtime Danville resident, where she’s been actively involved in the community while raising her two children. DRE#01111126

Showcase homes open

Crafted by Diamond, The Nova is a luxury 55+ community offering modern design and resort style living just steps from downtown Danville. Enjoy an elegant lounge and bar, a serene library, and private spaces for relaxation. Stay active in the state of the art fitness center, then gather outdoors at bocce courts, fire pits, and BBQ areas. Ideally located, The Nova is less than a 10-minute walk to Danville’s charming shops, award-winning restaurants, scenic parks, and local trails.

DANVILLE OAKS RUGBY: Building Strength, Community, and Momentum

By Leilani Stone, Photos by; Jack Saber, Jenny Kellogg Photography (Club photographer), Simon Eldridge, Jeff Blasius, and Kat Warren

The Danville Oaks Rugby Club continues to thrive as one of the East Bay’s premier youth and high school athletic programs, wrapping up a standout youth season and launching into an exciting spring for its high school teams.

From U8 through middle school, both boys and girls experienced a season defined by growth, teamwork, and enthusiasm for the game. With strong participation across all age groups, young athletes competed in a series of well-attended tournaments, gaining valuable experience while building confidence and camaraderie.

A standout achievement this season came from the middle school boys, who captured the JAM Championship, a testament to their hard work, development, and commitment throughout the season.

That momentum has carried seamlessly into the high school season, which began in February with energy and promise.

The Lady Oaks took their season beyond California, traveling to Florida over spring break to compete in the Tropical 7s Tournament. Facing teams from across the country, the girls embraced the challenge, gaining high-level experience while strengthening their bond as a team. The trip was a highlight of the season and a reflection of the program’s commitment to providing meaningful opportunities both on and off the field.

On the boys’ side, the Oaks continue to field a deep and competitive program, with Academy, Varsity A, and Varsity B teams all off to a strong start. Across every level, players are demonstrating discipline, resilience, and a shared commitment to team success—hallmarks of the club’s long-standing culture.

More than just a sport, Danville Oaks Rugby emphasizes character, leadership, and community. The program continues to be a place where athletes of all ages can grow, compete, and connect—values that resonate both on the pitch and throughout the Danville community.

With a successful youth season behind them and a promising high school season underway, the Oaks are building momentum that speaks to the strength and spirit of the club.

Leathered Countertops: An Uprising Timeless Trend

By Vlad Chernioglo, America’s Dream HomeWorks

Choosing the right countertop material can dramatically influence the overall look and function of a kitchen. One option that has gained popularity among homeowners and designers is the leather finish. This unique surface treatment offers natural beauty with a distinctive textured feel that stands apart from traditional polished finishes. A leathered surface combines elegance, durability, and practicality, making it an excellent choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and even outdoor spaces.

A leather finish is created by brushing the stone surface with specialized tools, a process that removes softer minerals from the stone and enhances the natural texture. The result is a slightly matte surface with a soft, leather-like feel.

Many homeowners choose leathered countertops because it combines beauty with practical benefits. The unique finish enhances the stone’s natural character while providing a durable working surface. Homeowners who want a kitchen that feels both sophisticated and comfortable often choose this finish for its unique balance of beauty and function.

If you’re planning a home remodel, professional designers and installers can help you select the right countertop color and finish

to match your cabinetry, flooring, and overall design vision. Contact America’s Dream HomeWorks today to explore countertop options and discover how we can transform your home into a stylish and functional space!

Here are some

Joybound Looking for Love

By Chelsea Blackburn, Joybound Public Relations Manager

Adopt a new best friend at Joybound People & Pets (formerly the Animal Rescue Foundation) in Walnut Creek! View available dogs and cats online or visit Joybound in-person.

Adoption Hours

Mon-Fri: 12 – 7 PM

Sat-Sun: 11 AM-6 PM

(Early sign-in begins at 9 AM)

Business Hours

Mon-Sun: 9 AM – 5 PM

Visit https://joybound.org/ for more information.

Joybound adoption fees:

• $150 for an adult dog

• $375 for a puppy (<6 months)

• $75 for a special-needs dog

• $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months)

• $75 for a senior dog (7+ years)

• Adoption fees waived for US military Veterans

$100 for an adult cat

$175 for a kitten (<6 months)

$50 for a special-needs cat

$100 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months)

$50 for a senior cat (7+ years)

Adoption fees waived for US military Veteran

Ilo Ln

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W

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Windstream Place $598,000

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Starview Drive

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Hartford Road

Montego Place

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Glen Alpine

El Dorado Ave

Marian

$2,033,100

$2,085,000

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Protecting What Defines Your Property: Tree Care for Safety, Beauty, and Fire Protection

By Antoinette Vargas, ISA Certified Arborist #WE13627A

In Danville, Alamo, and Diablo, mature trees are among the most valuable features of a property. They provide privacy, shade, and a sense of established beauty that takes decades to achieve. However, without proper care, those same trees can become a liability—especially during the intense heat of summer. As temperatures rise, trees experience increased stress, making them more prone to unexpected breakage, even without wind. Limbs that appear healthy can fail under their own weight, particularly in larger, mature trees with extended growth.

Preventative care is one of the most important steps homeowners can take. This includes removing deadwood, reducing excess weight, and maintaining proper clearance from structures. Just as important, however, is how this work is performed. One of the most common mistakes is over-pruning, often referred to as “lion-tailing,” where interior branches are removed and weight is left concentrated at the ends of limbs. While this may appear to reduce risk, it actually increases stress and makes limbs more susceptible to failure—especially during periods of high heat when trees are already under strain. For larger, established trees, proper pruning is about balance. Strategic weight reduction throughout the canopy helps relieve stress on extended limbs while preserving the tree’s natural structure. The goal is not to make a tree look cut back, but to

maintain its health, improve safety, and enhance its overall appearance. Routine maintenance is also key. Dead, diseased, or poorly attached limbs are far more likely to fail if left unaddressed. Most mature trees benefit from professional pruning every few years, depending on the species and growth rate. For higher-end properties, tree care should reflect the same level of detail as the home itself. When done correctly, the results are seamless—your trees appear untouched, yet noticeably healthier, safer, and more refined.

At Terry’s Tree Service, we specialize in pruning performed to ISA arborist standards, with a focus on safety, structural integrity, and meticulous clean-up. Our goal is simple: to protect the beauty, value, and longevity of the trees that define your property.

Terry’s Tree Service (925) 820-TREE (8733) TerrysTreeService.com Danville, CA Lic #918146

CINDY ALAIMO

Ice Cream, You Scream

By Kallen Cooyar, SRVHS Student

Everyone loves a sweet, cold treat on a hot summer day. Whether in a sugar cone, waffle cone, or bowl, with so many flavors it’s hard to count them! But how did ice cream come to be what it is today, starting from just one flavor?

Ice Cream’s origins are widely debated, with guesses and arguments ranging all around the world. The most likely is that of Persian ice mixed desserts, which apparently can be dated back to 550 BC and Roman desserts sprinkled with snow dating back to the first century. These Persian desserts needed a special type of building called a Yakhchal used for storing the ice in the desert heat. As for the Roman desserts, they are documented in ancient cookbooks from Rome. Another, more fleshed out example of an early chilled treat is from the Tang period in China (A.D. 618-907), where King Tang of Shang kept 94 ice-men on staff, to harvest ice, which was used in tandem with a sort of yogurt, camphor, and flour to make a finished dessert. Key to the diffusion of using ice in cuisine (especially desserts!) was the development of the technique of using salt to lower the freezing point, which the origin of is also not known exactly. However some Indian texts from the 4th century discussed the technique and the earliest technical description hails from the Dar al Islam where Ibn Abu Usabyi wrote about the applications of various salts in the medical field. This arrived in Europe in the early 1500s, not being used for food until the 1660s when sorbets started popping up in Naples, Paris, and Florence (amongst others). Following the feast of St. George at Windsor Castle in 1671, where ice cream was served only to the most elite in attendance, ice cream became a craze.

From here, nobles began constructing ice houses at their houses, with the ice being “farmed” and stored under bark and straw. However this ice was not directly put into dishes, as it was typically not safe for eating, instead used simply to cool food. And with the recipe for ice cream kept so closely, they did not appear in text until 1718. Soon after, (around the 1750s) the French started making a custard ice cream with eggs.

Many years later, as ice cream had diffused even to America, in the 1800s the ice cream machine was invented, using simply a metal container with a smaller wooden compartment containing, salt, ice, and a handle that rotated the mixture. The ice industry became a very common, yet poorly conditioned job, with harsh environments: starting in Norway, Canada, and America, and ending with shipments to large cities like London where the wealthy had large ice houses.

Modern refrigeration further revolutionized this process, with a closed-loop, vapor-compression cycle to move heat from the inside to the outside, where a refrigerant fluid evaporates, thus removing heat from the loop. Now, to contradict the idea that there are countless flavors of ice cream, estimates say there are around 1000 distinct flavors of ice cream worldwide. Even so, that is an incredibly large number, all starting from 1.

Kallen Cooyar is a junior at San Ramon Valley High School. He enjoys sports, and spending time reading. He is the president of the Persian heritage club and a member of the personal finance club. He plays football and is an avid stock investor . He is thrilled with the opportunity to share his views on contemporary events with his neighborhood through Danville Living CA.

Quick Lemonade Cookies

By Stephanie Seaberg, Resident since 2010

It’s May, which means you are running in ten different directions every weekend. If you’re not going to a pool party, you are rushing to a graduation party and everything in between. You are also probably going to show up with a dish to share, because you are a gracious guest, right? Well, don’t stress, because I’ve got you covered in the dessert department. If you haven’t tried a “Cake Box Cookie” recipe yet, then you are in for a treat. These cookies require only a few ingredients and come out perfect every time. They are chewy and lemony, but not too sweet. It reminds me of a lemon bar with half of the effort.

YOU WILL NEED;

• 15 ounce box lemon cake mix

• 1/2 c. vegetable oil

• 2 large eggs

• juice from one lemon

• zest from one lemon

• 2 c. powdered sugar

PUTTING IT TOGETHER;

Preheat the oven to 350°. In a medium size bowl, mix the lemon cake mix, vegetable oil, and two eggs until well incorporated. Using a cookie scoop, place rounded little balls of dough on to a cookie sheet 2 inches apart each other. Bake for 11 to 13 minutes, depending on your oven. Allow the cookies to completely cool before frosting.

For the frosting, combine powdered sugar, lemon zest and lemon juice in a small bowl and mix with a whisk until it looks like a glaze. If it’s too thick, add a small splash of water until it looks runny. Using a teaspoon, lightly drizzle glaze over each cookie. If you refrigerate them for a few minutes, the glaze will firm up.

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.

www.mattforrey.com

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,

Celebrate and Make a Difference!

By Michelle Hayward, Meals on Wheels Diablo Region

Join Meals on Wheels Diablo Region for the 5th Annual Dining to Deliver Gala! Taking place on Saturday, June 6 at the Blackhawk Museum, this special evening will raise critical funds and awareness to help older neighbors age in place with dignity, health, and independence. This year’s theme, Everything in Bloom, celebrates continued growth and new beginnings, and we invite guests to don their favorite floral fashions and join us in the spirit of the evening.

Guests will have the opportunity to bid on exciting auction packages— including short stays, local outings, and unique experiences—while enjoying a lively cocktail hour, dinner and wine, and dancing to live music from The Time Bandits. All proceeds directly support local seniors.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Please contact events@mowdr.org or on 925- 239-2487 for more information

A Place to Be Heard: del Prado Counseling & Consulting in Danville

By Alicia del Prado, Ph.D, Photos by Janvier Briones

Just off Prospect Avenue in the heart of downtown Danville, there’s a quiet office where people come to talk about the parts of life that are often hardest to share. Inside del Prado Counseling & Consulting, the pace slows, conversations deepen, and individuals and families begin the work of understanding themselves in new ways.

Founded by psychologist Alicia del Prado, Ph.D., the practice grew from a simple but powerful belief: everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported as they navigate life’s challenges. With more than 25 years of clinical experience, Dr. del Prado has built a practice grounded in the idea that therapy should feel both supportive and empowering—a place where people can explore difficulties while recognizing their own strengths.

A Welcoming Space for the Danville Community

What sets the practice apart is its blend of clinical expertise and genuine connection. What began as a solo practice has grown into a collaborative team of clinicians who share a commitment to thoughtful, culturally responsive care. Together, they bring decades of experience and offer therapy for children, teens, adults, couples, and families.

Clients walk through the door for many different reasons: anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, parenting stress, grief, life transitions, or simply the sense that something in life needs attention and care. The practice also provides ADHD assessments, helping children, teens, and adults gain clarity about attention and learning differences so they can access the support they need at school, work, and in daily life.

At del Prado Counseling & Consulting, therapy is never one-size-fits-all. Clinicians integrate evidence-based approaches— including cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and interpersonal therapy—while tailoring each session to the individual. Yet

LEFT: With 25 years of clinical experience, Dr. Alicia del Prado has built a group practice that is informed by her national and international expertise in psychology.

what many clients remember most isn’t a specific technique, but the feeling of being truly heard.

Clients often describe the office as calm, welcoming, and grounding—a place where conversations unfold without judgment. Whether working with a child in play therapy, supporting a family through a difficult transition, or helping a professional rediscover balance, the focus remains the same: helping people reconnect with their strengths and envision new possibilities for their lives.

A Collaborative Team of Experienced Clinicians

Beyond the therapy room, Dr. del Prado has long been engaged in education, teaching graduate-level psychology courses and

contributing to national and global efforts that emphasize cultural understanding and diversity within mental health care. That broader perspective shapes the practice’s inclusive philosophy: every person’s background, identity, and lived experience matter.

Among the clinicians are experienced professionals such as Dr. Bette Maisel-White, Psy.D., who specializes in neurodiversity, trauma, addiction medicine, and family therapy, and Patty Perez, MSW, a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist who is especially passionate about supporting immigrant families, couples, and the LGBTQ+ community. Clinic coordinator Samantha Frias, who manages scheduling and other behind-the-scenes work, is also a graduate student training to become a psychologist.

For many in the Westside Danville community, del Prado Counseling & Consulting has quietly become a trusted resource. Located at 175 E. Prospect Avenue, Suite 210, with an entrance just behind Danville Chocolates, the practice offers both in-person and virtual appointments. Community members can schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation (925-391-1914 or at www.drdelprado.com) to learn more about in-person and virtual appointments and find the right therapeutic fit. By providing compassionate mental health care close to home, the practice supports the wellbeing of Danville’s Westside community—one conversation at a time.

The San Ramon Valley Education Foundation

Summer Imagineering

By Alicia Gee

The San Ramon Valley Education Foundation (SRVEF) is proud to offer Imagineering, a beyond school enrichment program for SRVUSD students. The goal of Imagineering is to spark student interest in choosing STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Math) classes in middle and high school.

This Summer we will be offering a variety of classes that will appeal to young scientists, engineers, coders, programmers, chemists, techies, artists and mathematicians starting June 15 and running through July 17, 2026. With weeklong classes for incoming students from 2nd grade through high school, you are certain to find something for your student. Offered classes include:

• Blast Off!: Rocketry

• Creative Writing and Design

• Let’s Roll: Coding with Spheros

• Lights Camera Action!: Stop Motion Animation

• The Recycle Lab: Create, Build, Imagine!

• Zoology Explorers

• Creative Coding with Raspberry Pi & Python

• Level Up Your Money Game

• Marine Biology

• Medical Interventions: First Aid & CPR

• Pop-Culture Philosophy

• Robotics: Unleash Your Inner Engineer with Python and Pi

• Speaking Practice: Become a Confident Speaker

• Sweet Science Lab: Baking

And for your student performer, we have Musical Theater: “Disney’s Frozen Jr.” a five-week theatre production class where students will perform in and design a full-length musical developing and enhancing their skills in performing arts, visual arts, and sound engineering.

Registration is now open and early bird pricing is through April 1.

For the full schedule, class descriptions and to register, visit https://srvef.org/imagineering/

Day Trips and Getaways

Talking Points Are Pointless in Point Lobos

By Ted Johnson, Resident since 1991

Thatwe, as Northern California residents, are blessed with access to some of the world’s most compelling coastline underscores our desire to live here. We hear about the high prices of real estate and gas all the time. Complaints and new issues arise constantly: California has problems on this and what are we going to do about that? But to those who have not lived and experienced some of the best of Northern California, we say, among many choices, things like, “Well, we have Point Lobos and you don’t.” A State Preserve less than 10 miles south of Carmel, Point Lobos is one of those treasures that reveal itself in the simplest ways: Get out and walk among the gnarled cypress on the hillsides overburdened with wildflowers and ground cover. And in so doing it hits: A view that makes us stop and absorb the natural beauty of ragged granite walls dropping into the deep blue Pacific.

Point Lobos is about two hours south of Danville, and it’s often an afterthought with charming Carmel and its shops, restaurants and galleries just up the road. For that matter, there’s Monterey Bay with its wharf and famous Aquarium. And yet, just a short car ride further south on Highway 1 awaits that nature immersion that can eviscerate stress, calm the heart and inspire the legs to carry on to see what

other visual surprises can be discovered. There are several trails available within Point Lobos, but the Cypress Grove walk might offer the most in terms of beauty and views. There are benches along the trail, which is about a mile long, but to traverse its winding path is to come hard and fast into a “why not” moment.

We live in a world in which a spectacular moment comes across in a text or a video on our phones for a few seconds. We can chuckle at the memes created in the aftermath of the latest social or political or cultural talking point. But here, away from the cacophony of modern life, talking points are pointless in Point Lobos. You realize that the first time you view through a cypress tree into a cove, white foam floating back to the sea, currents eddying among the rocks, the breeze redolent in salt and freshness. And perhaps it’s a blush of a breeze that carries a hint of jasmine that makes you reconsider the moment and … just … soak… it… in. Immerse in it for not 10 seconds, nor a minute. Maybe find a tree and lean against it as your mental metabolism downshifts out of the High Speed Brain into simple Observation. Allow the sensory skills to dominate: The breeze, the salt, the ocean, the waves, the hillsides in the distance, and what it was like 200 years ago, and 500 years ago, and 5,000 years ago, and before long you’re there for 10 minutes. And it’s soothing and refreshing and rejuvenating. So you stay longer.

That’s the “why not” moment. And then there’s the sign on the trail that warns to keep your voice down, as harbor seals are birthed here. And we wouldn’t want THAT disturbed, eh?

Yes, Point Lobos is 115 miles away and yet it’s like the epicenter of stress reduction. It reminds us that simple beauty can be restorative; that fresh air and jagged cliffs seem to make us realize that the world is beautiful and we’re so lucky to see and experience up close and so easily – just $10 fee to get into Point Lobos.

more than 40 years.