Danville Living CA | October 2025

Meet Sarah and Meghan

Together they Sparkle: Friends, Jewelry, and the Heart of the Community

Mary Bonham Team

Friday, Oct. 3

October

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

PUFFS of Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic & Magic @ Village Theatre

For seven years a certain boy wizard went to a certain Wizard School and conquered evil. This, however, is not his story. This is the story of the Puffs… who just happened to be there too. A tale for anyone who has never been destined to save the world. Visit https://www.danville.ca.gov/ for more information.

Time: 7PM

Cost: $27-27

Friday, Oct. 24

Down Syndrome Walk & Family Picnic @ Oak Hill Park

Join us for a heartwarming day of fun, connection, and celebration! This special event brings the community together with exciting activities, inspiring walkers, and record-breaking fundraising. The most powerful moment? Cheering loudly at the finish line as we proudly recognize our amazing members with Down syndrome and celebrate their accomplishments. It’s the highlight of our year, and we hope you’ll be part of it! Visit to https:// give.dscba.org/event/2025-bay-areastep-up-for-down-syndrome-walk-andfamily-picnic/e698241 to register.

Time: 10am-1PM

Saturday, Oct. 11

Melded Metal Exhibition

Opening Reception

@Art Gallery and Village Theater

At first glance, some metals might not seem like the most inviting or expressive materials. Their hard surfaces, cold textures, and industrial associations can make them appear rigid and unyielding. Yet for the artists featured in Melded Metals, it was precisely within these raw and seemingly inflexible elements that they discovered extraordinary beauty and endless creative potential. We invite you to come and experience Melded Metals for yourself. Let the textures, forms, and transformations reveal to you the hidden life within metal — a material that, in the right hands, transcends its surface and speaks to the imagination in unexpected and moving ways.

Time: 4-6PM

Cost: Free

Saturday, Oct. 18

Howl-o-ween Event: For the Dogs

@ The Cottage at Hap Magee Park

Join us for a Howl-o-ween celebration including a costume contest, a pet parade, photo opportunity and visit booths with local vendors. Costume categories include: silliest, most original, best owner/dog duo and best impersonation.

Visit https://www.danville.ca.gov/ for more information and to register.

Time: 10am-12PM

Cost: $16

Thursday, Oct. 23

Spooktacular Celebration

@ Danville Community Center and Library

Join us for a Spooky-themed evening! The festivities will include arts and crafts, face painting, games, trick-or-treating and lots of fall fun! Pre-registration is required- no walkins. Ages 1-10Y.

Visit https://www.danville.ca.gov/ for more information and to register.

Time: 2-7:30PM

Cost: Free

Saturday, Oct. 4

Wicked Sing A-Long

@ Village Theater

Come experience Wicked again on the big screen at the Village Theatre this Halloween. Come down in your best fit from Emerald City to show off on the Yellow Brick Runway before the film. Email jdunn@danville.ca.gov for more information.

Time: Activities begin at PM, Movie begin at 7PM

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 Patry

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.

Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2025 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Hello Neighbors!

The crisp evenings in October are a swift reminder that the seasons are changing and we’re entering the holiday season! A drive along any of our westside neighborhoods and you’ll be sure to see lively decorations...whether it’s a beautiful display of fall pumpkins, a freighting Halloween scene, or a lawn filled with giant inflatables, our town is one of the best to get you in the spirit of the season!

Danville Living is so excited to have Sarah Varosh and Meghan Mlinarich as our feature residents this month. Both grew up here in Danville, have found their way back home to raise their families and have now stared a successful jewelry company together. Their friendship and love of community shines bright, right here in Danville and beyond! Our October issue is also filled with many events for the family to enjoy, as well as a great collection of expert and community articles.

If you have a story to share or know a neighbor that you would love to see on our cover, please send me an email at aangstenberger@bestversionmedia.com. We welcome all families, couples, or individuals - the only requirement is that our feature family live on the west side of Danville. So send your friends and neighbors my way, I can’t wait to meet them!

See you around town!

Anne Angstenberger

Content Coordinator, Resident since 2006

We are dedicated to sharing your stories and interests. If there is anything you would like to share with our community, or see in our magazine, please don’t hesitate to email me at aangstenberger@bestversionmedia.com

LIVE LIFE WITHOUT COMPROMISE

Choosing the right senior living community is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Care and safety come first, but lifestyle and independence are important too. At Belmont Village, you’ll find it all. An experienced staff, 24/7 licensed nurses, award-winning enrichment and memory programs in a luxurious and attentive environment. And unlike most, we build, own, and operate all of our communities. So residents can count on the continuity of those high standards, never compromising on the things that matter. BelmontVillage.com/SanRamon 925-414-0255

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

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

EYC Life Coach

Christina Dalton 925-872-4726 Christina@EYHLifeCoach.com www.eyhcollegecoach.com/

Memory Care

Carefield Pleasanton Memory Care 925-750-8744 www.carefieldpleasanton.com

Mortgage

RateSecure

Gurp Bhandal 925 786 8915 gurp@ratesecure.com www.ratesecure.com

Music

Danville Music

115 Town and Country Dr. Suite E Danville, CA 94526 925-226-8772 info@danvillemusic.com

Pilates

Mighty Pilates Danville Kelli Wynne 925-486-1140 danvilleinstructormanager@mightypilates.com www.mightypilates.com/danville

Real Estate

Lisa Hopkins-Cochran Compass 925-964-5010 Lisa.Hopkins@Compass.com www.LoveHomes.pro

Remodeling

America’s Dream Homeworks

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

Wealth Management

Matt Forrey

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

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.

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.

Carefield Pleasanton provides exceptional memory care in a lovely senior living community located in Pleasanton, CA. With a compassionate team, we provide 24/7 support with a personalized care plan, an enriching calendar of activities, delicious dining, & private residences. Take a tour today.

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.

We are a full-service music center that offers high-quality, brand name instruments for purchase and rent, supplies and accessories, repair services, as well as private lessons with well-known, established instructors. Danville Music is proud to be Northern California’s premier guitar shop. Nothing compares to our selection of high quality and boutique custom instruments in a wide variety of price ranges.

Kelli has been an athlete her entire life and was training for a marathon when she injured her back. While rehabilitating, she was introduced to Pilates and the amazing benefits. Once she experienced the personal impact on her own recovery, she couldn’t get enough, decided to become an instructor and completed her comprehensive certification in 2010. Kelli continually strives to meet the needs of her students, by providing a challenging, fun and rigorous workout. Her classes build core strength, promote agility, and prevent injury so her clients can gain the edge and advantage they need in both work and play.

Lisa’s consultative and solutions based approach to real estate sales has been impressing her clients for 34 years. Lisa is an East Bay native and longtime resident of Danville, where she’s been involved in the community while raising her two children. 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.” DRE#01111126

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.

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 Sarah and Meghan

Together they Sparkle: Friends, Jewelry, and the Heart of the Community

By Anne Angstenberger, Resident since 2006

Neighbors turned friends, turned business partners. Sarah and Meghan shared a history of being former kindergarten teachers who left the profession when their children were born. While they both loved being full time moms, they each felt a pull to create something of their own, something that could help support their families one day while chasing their dreams at the same time. That is where Kena Gene Co. was born: a jewelry brand rooted in family and our Danville community.

East Bay native, Sarah Varosh (Shwedel), moved to the Woodranch neighborhood in Danville before starting 6th grade and lived there until she graduated from Monte Vista High School in 2005. Sarah has always been involved in the Danville community since her youth. Sarah grew up playing competitive Mustang Soccer, SRVGAL Stompers and Danced at the Next Step Dance Studio. As soon as she got her driver’s license, she was eager to get a more regular job. Her first job was working at Cuenin and Whistler Orthodontics offices. She then put in many years at a town favorite, Pete’s Brass Rail and Carwash. Sarah played soccer at Monte Vista and was very active in Monte Vista leadership class. She held an office position each year and was ASB president her senior year. After 4 years at Chico State, Sarah graduated with a BA double major in Liberal Studies and Child Development. While teaching kindergarten in Lafayette, Sarah simultaneously worked at Norm’s Place after school and on the weekends to save money. It was during this time that Sarah met Jim while he was dining at Norm’s Place. Their relationship began just as friends, and soon, Jim conveniently became a regular during her shifts at the restaurant. Jim’s kindness, warmth and loyalty to his friends and family made it clear to Sarah that she could imagine him as a husband, father and best friend.

But at only 25, Sarah was also going through a very challenging time in her life as her mother passed away. Jim was right by her side, helping her get through the most difficult time in her life, Jim proposed in 2016 in her classroom in front of her 18 kindergarten students. Sarah remembers them “literally jumping off the walls in total chaos and excitement.” Jim told Sarah that he wanted to propose in her classroom because it was her favorite place to be.

In 2017 Sarah and Jim were married at the Chardonnay Golf Club in American Canyon and began their life together. The couple’s oldest daughter, Charlotte, 6 years old, has attended many schools in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. After being diagnosed with autism at age 3, finding the best school for her each year has finally led them to Montair for first grade. Sarah and Jim are ecstatic she is finally at their home school with neighborhood friends. . Charlotte also loves gymnastics, dancing, swimming and of course all things Taylor Swift. Little sister Nora, 3 years old, keeps the family very busy as she has “high amounts of energy, no fear, and loves to climb, jump and swing.” Her imagination and hilarious personality shine through at home and at Young Learners Academy where she attends preschool.

Living in their westside neighborhood for many years has made the Varosh family appreciate all Danville has to offer; shopping, restaurants, the library, community center, and the Iron Horse trail, which are all within walking distance. Sarah feels incredibly lucky to have two of her best friends (one being Meghan) as neighbors and truly feels Kena Gene Co. wouldn’t exist without this incredible community.

Meghan Mlinarich also feels right at home on the westside as she was born at John Muir hospital and also raised right here in Danville. Her family has a long history here since her grandparents (Mike and Jo Ann Doyle) moved to Danville in 1952. Mike served on the town council for 25 years, including 6 terms as mayor. Jo Ann also had deep roots in the community, teaching for over 50 years in the SRVUSD and at St. Isidore School. Meghan’s parents bought their westside home in 1989, just one month before she was born. Meghan has fond memories attending Montair, Stone Valley, SRVHS and playing SRV Varsity and Mustang soccer (winning regional, State and even some National championships). After high school, Meghan moved to Tucson to attend the University of Arizona where she completed her BA in Elementary Education. It was during her last semester of student teaching, that she came home for Thanksgiving Break and was introduced to Brett. Like many Thanksgiving breaks, the Danville Tree Lighting is filled with reunions of old friends coming back home for the holiday, and Meghan’s friend insisted on introducing her to one of her old friends from De La Salle, as she knew they would hit it off. She was right…as they “instantly gravitated towards each other and by the next morning, Brett was already asking to take me on a date

that evening.” Even though she had to get back to Tucson, the two talked everyday. They even decided to travel and experience new locations together. For their four years of dating, they lived in Boston, Hermosa Beach, Brentwood, and eventually back to the East Bay in Walnut Creek. While living in Southern California, Brett worked for a startup while Meghan began her teaching journey as a first grade assistant teacher at Village School in Pacific Palisades. When they moved back to the East Bay, Meghan began teaching at Sleepy Hollow Elementary School in Orinda. She spent one year teaching second grade before discovering her heart was in kindergarten, where she taught for six more years. In September of 2016 Brett and Meghan were married at the Silverado Resort and Spa in Napa, surrounded by family and friends, and with Meghan’s grandfather as the officiant.

After an emotional four year IVF journey of planning their family, Brett and Meghan were finally blessed with the birth of their son, Owen. He is a curious, silly, tender hearted, hardworking 4 year old who just began TK in SRVUSD. Owen is following his mom’s footsteps and just started playing on his first Mustang soccer team. Owen is the best big brother to his sister, Makena (age 1.5), who wakes up clapping and smiling each

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.

morning. The two Mlinarich children love to play on the big grassy field in their neighborhood. You can catch them riding scooters, playing hide and seek, and creating chalk drawings with their neighborhood buddies… including Sarah’s children! Brett and Meghan love taking family walks downtown, to the Livery or bringing their kids to play with their cousins at Meghan’s childhood home.

Both Sarah and Meghan left teaching Kindergarten when their oldest children were born and bonded over the precious time they have been given to be present for both of their 2 children during their youngest years. However, they felt it was the right time to learn something new, to challenge themselves creatively, to get out of their comfort zone and back into the community they had been actively a part of for so long. Jewelry making had always been a shared dream for Sarah and Meghan. In September of 2024, in Sarah’s dining room, Kena Gene Co. was born.“We decided to take the leap to build something meaningful right here in the place that means so much to us” . They wanted to choose a business name that was a blend of their two families; “Kena” comes from Makena, “Gene” is Nora’s middle name, and “Co.” represents Charlotte and Owen. Their jewelry collections that honor their children: The Charlotte Collection, The Nora Collection, The Owen Collection (their IVF line) and the Makena Collection were thoughtfully created to reflect their unique personalities and the special qualities they possess.

In November 2024, they formed an LLC, secured a Danville business license and launched a website, all while juggling school schedules, nap time, diapers, dinners and Zoom calls. “As stay-at-home moms, we work late into the night and early in the morning, stringing bracelets, fulfilling orders, and learning how to run a small business from the ground up.” Some of their first pop up shops took place at many of their favorite local spots: Pete’s Brass Rail and Carwash, Hazy BBQ, Doyle Quane (Meghan’s Dad opened his Law Firm in 1984 on Hartz Ave., where it still stands today), Canyon Club Brewery, Ella J Boutique, and Luna Loca. They have been lucky enough to be a part of The Danville Farmers Market, Makers Markets at WISH Boutique in Walnut Creek, Orinda Theater Square, and the Danville Dudum Mother’s Day Market, Sarah and Meghan spend quite a bit of time fulfilling custom orders and even offer front porch delivery to fellow Danville neighbors. The website has been busier than ever, especially after Instagram influencer, Karrie Locher and Bachelorette Hannah Brown shared their bracelets on social media. What an honor! Kena Gene Co. was also featured in Solly Baby’s 2025 Easter Gift Guide and also sent a few bracelets to Jonni Rogers, a six-time Raiderette and current head coach of the University of Miami Sunsations dance team. They have most recently sent custom Morse Code

bracelets to Claire Kittle, wife of 49er Tight End, George Kittle. Sarah and Meghan also are keeping busy booking Holiday Parties for guests to purchase jewelry and they love scheduling a variety of “Mom’s Night” pop-ups with local moms. Perhaps many of our Danville Living readers will be lucky enough to catch them in person soon! Check out their website, www.kenageneco.com and their Instagram page: @kenageneco for local events and an opportunity to say hello to your neighbors!

CHOOSE A SMARTER WAY TO AGE

By Jennifer Ringenberg, Owner at The Exercise Coach

AtThe Exercise Coach – San Ramon, our purpose is simple yet profound: to transform the way people age!

In recent years, the fitness industry has begun shifting its focus from performance and aesthetics to health, longevity and overall wellbeing. This shift reflects growing awareness among individuals of all ages, particularly older adults, who are seeking meaningful improvements to their quality of life rather than simply extending their years.

At The Exercise Coach – San Ramon, we are committed to addressing these concerns through innovative, evidence-based fitness solutions tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Our

programs focus on Strength, Safety and Efficiency, making fitness accessible, effective and empowering for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level.

At the core of our Strength Training program is Exerbotics Strength Training. With Exerbotics machines, resistance is governed by advanced computer controls, guiding you to generate ability-based muscle actions through your exact, individualized range of motion. Our evidence-based strength training is optimized with attention to three pillars: safety, effectiveness and efficiency.

Safety: Our strength workouts are supervised, enhancing your training technique through specific coaching and reducing your risk of injury. Your range of motion is also precisely tailored to concentrate mechanical loading on your muscles and mitigate stress on your joints and connective tissues.

Effectiveness: Muscles are ~40% stronger in the eccentric (muscle lengthening) compared to concentric (muscle shortening) phase of exercise. Using Exerbotics machines an Exercise Coach can guide your workout intelligently, based on your current level of strength, providing appropriate eccentric overload to maximize muscular recruitment and adaptation. By preferentially recruiting type ll, fast twitch muscle fibers Exerbotics optimizes strength training for growth and longevity.

Efficiency: Exerbotics machines guide your effort through biofeedback and accommodate human physiology by accentuating the eccentric component, improving the efficiency of your workout. Each repetition is tailored to you, with no minimal strength requirement, or extraneous force output. Strength training at The Exercise Coach – San Ramon uses a proven approach, so efficient that you’ll achieve comprehensive results to your strength and health in only 2 x 20-minute whole-body workouts per week.

If you or someone you know is ready to transform the way you are aging, please give us a call to schedule your 2-Free Promo sessions. Call 925-378-5941 or you can visit exercisecoach.com for more information.

Empowering Your Essay

By Christina Dalton, MS, PPS, PCC, EYH Life Coach

Make It Personal — 2026 Admissions

This October, the University of California application opens for students targeting Fall 2026 enrollment. With nine distinguished campuses, the UC system remains a globally prestigious network, attracting a massive applicant pool each year.

What’s New in Fall 2025 Admissions

Systemwide Highlights:

The UC system received approximately 249,824 applications, a slight drop (−0.5%) from Fall 2024.

Of these, about 205,158 were first-year applications. 149,368 firstyear students were admitted, yielding a systemwide admission rate of 73%, up from 66% in 2024. For California residents, the acceptance rate rose to 77%, up from 70%, with 100,947 California applicants accepted—a record high.

Campus-Level Variations:

Selective campuses remain highly competitive:

UCLA: ~9% overall acceptance rate, around 9.4%, for Fall 2025

UC Berkeley: ~11–13% acceptance rate

UC San Diego: ~27%

UC Irvine: ~29%

UC Santa Barbara: ~33%

UC Davis: ~42%

UC Santa Cruz: ~66%

UC Riverside: ~76%

UC Merced: The highest—around 91–98%

Applications Are Shifting:

California resident applications dropped slightly (−2.6%), while international applications grew by 8.7%.

UC Merced saw a 44–45% surge in applications—possibly tied to strategic outreach and fee waivers.

Why This Matters for Class of 2026 Applicants:

• These insights reveal overall admission rates are stronger, especially for California residents—but not evenly across campuses.

• Highly selective campuses remain extremely competitive, regardless of a higher aggregate acceptance rate.

• Applicants should apply broadly across the UC system to maximize chances.

• Essays remain the most controllable—and potentially decisive— element of the application.

Essay Strategy for Fall 2026 Applicants

What You Control:

As a senior, your GPA and activities are largely set. That leaves essays as your most powerful opportunity to stand out.

Your Essay Opportunity:

You’ll choose 4 out of 8 prompts, each with a 350-word limit.

Use this space to move beyond stats and —show who you are and what you’ll bring.

Key Questions to Answer:

Why does your story matter? What will the reader remember about you?

How does your story demonstrate growth? Show resilience or learning.

What makes your story unique? Among 200,000+ applicants, what sets you apart?

What will you bring to UC? Reflect on lessons learned and how you’ll contribute to the campus community.

Essays should show, not tell, featuring vivid moments—leadership that drove change, a failure that sparked growth, or passion translated into real impact. Be Authentic AI-generated essays are easy for admissions officers to spot. Your authentic voice—specific, personal, and real—is your greatest asset.

How EYH Coaching Empowers Your Student

The application deadline, November 30, 2025, might seem distant— but crafting authentic, strategic essays takes time.

EYH Coaching supports students by:

• Unearthing their most compelling stories

• Aligning narratives with UC prompts while preserving voice

• Refining essays into impactful, memorable reflections

It’s not too late to gain that edge. Empower your student’s essay. Empower their future. Contact EYH Coaching 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.

It’s Time to Plan Ahead for Home Hardening

By Lisa Hopkins-Cochran, REALTOR® at Compass

Are you planning a home improvement project on the outside of your home, or in your yard? Even if you’re not required to, it would be wise to incorporate best practices for “home hardening” in your plans.

What’s home hardening? It’s the practice of making changes to the exterior of your home and landscape, to reduce the risk of fire by creating a larger “defensible space.” You may have already had some experience in this area, if your home insurance carrier required that you do some maintenance or tree pruning/removal, in order to renew your policy. Some regions of California already have mandates in place, requiring homeowners to make significant modifications. The focus is on creating ember-resistant zones around structures, vegetation clearance, and using fire-resistant building materials. Some communities in the East Bay already have point of sale ordinances, that require fire inspections and completion of required improvements or maintenance, to be able to close a sale.

Since it’s probable that our neighborhoods may see future requirements, or point of sale ordinances regarding defensible space and home hardening, it makes sense to plan ahead. At the very least, your home (and by default, your neighborhood) will be a little bit safer, and you may have an easier time keeping your home insurance.

What can you do? Recommendations are to have a minimum of a 5 foot perimeter around your home, that does not have combustible material (some locations require a larger distance). What does this mean in real life? You may want to consider using hardscape (concrete/tile patio) adjacent to your house, pushing flower beds, trees & shrubs farther away from the structure. As a non-fire-related bonus, this is also much better for your home’s foundation, due to the expansive soils in our area. If you’re planning new landscape, consider using a non-combustible mulch or gravel, instead of a more traditional, organic mulch. Simply put, shredded tree mulch is basically kindling. A lot of research has shown that wooden fences and trellises put the attached home at much greater risk of burning. If it’s time for a new fence or patio cover, you should look into fire-resistant materials. Of course, roofing material, siding and decking all matter, too.

Want to learn more? There are lots of resources online and you can check with your local fire district to obtain the most relevant information.

Every home is unique. Please feel free to reach out to me at 925-9645010 or via email at Lisa.Hopkins@Compass.com with questions or for a custom analysis. Even if you’re not planning to move, I’m happy to help by providing you with relevant data, enabling you to make a well informed decision. It’s never too early to start planning for success.

Lisa’s consultative and solutions based approach to real estate has been impressing her clients for 34 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

2025’s Top Rated Walk-In Shower Designs

By Vlad Chernioglo, America’s Dream HomeWorks

What defines a “Top-Rated” Walk-In Shower Design? Today’s best designs aren’t only about appearance. They deliver on: ease of maintenance, functionality in layout and use, durability of materials, and integration with overall bathroom design. Let’s take a look at the leading options based on layout, material, aesthetic impact, and practical considerations.

• Frameless Glass Enclosure: Clean, minimalist, and elegant. Frameless glass walk-in showers remain a designer favorite.

• Wet Room–Style Design: The wet room layout continues to grow in popularity—especially in compact or open-plan bathrooms.

• Partial Wall or Half-Glass Partition: A modern twist on the traditional enclosure—offers some privacy while maintaining openness.

• Arched or Curved Entry Showers: A bold yet elegant approach gaining ground in 2025, especially in European-inspired interiors.

• Open Walk-In With No Barrier: The most minimal design, popular in luxury builds where space and drainage are optimized.

The top-rated walk-in shower designs of 2025 aren’t just about trends—they’re about timeless balance. They blend layout, lighting, and material for a space that makes your mornings smoother and your evenings calmer.

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: MondaySunday, 12-6 pm. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share

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

Hartz Ave

Hartz Ave

El Dorado Ave

Hartz Ave

Hartz Ave

Midland WAY

Hartley Dr

Garden Creek Pl

Danville Oak Pl

Hartz Ave

W El Pintado Rd

W El Pintado Rd

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Elworthy Ranch Cir

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River Rock Ln

W El Pintado Rd

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El Dorado Ave

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PILATES DANVILLE:

Where Movement Becomes Longevity

By Kelli Wynne, Instructor Manager for Mighty Pilates Danville

If you’re seeking a workout that not only strengthens the body but also sustains vitality and grace across the years, Reformer classes at Mighty Pilates Danville may well become your sanctuary. Unlike high-impact workouts that deplete energy, Pilates restores and refines, building strength from the inside out while supporting the body’s changing needs at every stage of life. At Mighty Pilates, the Reformer is not just a machine; it is a partner in intelligent movement. With adjustable resistance and the careful guidance of comprehensively certified instructors, each session is tailored to your unique physiology and aspirations. Whether you wish to enhance posture, protect bone density, improve balance, or simply move with greater ease and confidence, every class feels as though it was designed especially for you. The benefits of Pilates extend far beyond physical strength. It sharpens coordination, reduces the risk of injury, and deepens your understanding of how your body moves. This awareness fosters resilience, not only for daily movement but for your general wellbeing. Joseph Pilates once said, “You are only as young as your spine is flexible.” In that spirit, this practice becomes a powerful investment in both longevity and quality of life. What draws clients back to Mighty Pilates, time and again, is not only the results but the experience itself. Small class sizes cultivate a sense of community; instructors know you by name;

and the welcoming atmosphere transforms exercise into something genuinely enjoyable. Each session uplifts, leaving you with more energy, confidence, and freedom to live fully.

No matter your starting point, Mighty Pilates Danville meets you where you are. It is more than a studio. It is a place where movement becomes empowering, community feels authentic, and every milestone is celebrated.

Pumpkin HUMMUS

By Stephanie Seaberg, Resident since 2010

Pumpkin season is officially here, whether you’re ready or not. Lately, pumpkin drinks and pumpkin desserts are what you expect to see around this time. But I’ve had savory pumpkin dishes on my mind, like pumpkin ravioli and pumpkin soup. So, I thought I would share this super delicious pumpkin hummus. This velvety smooth hummus is packed with protein and it’s very quick and easy to make. It’s one of those terrific guilt free snacks you can keep on hand in the fridge or serve at your next gathering. BOO!

YOU WILL NEED;

• 1 c. Pumpkin purée (plain, no flavors or sweeteners)

• 1/2 C. Cannellini beans, rinsed

• 1 c. Garbanzo beans, rinsed

• 5 cloves fresh garlic

• 1 tsp. Cumin

• Juice of two lemons

• 1/4 c. Extra-virgin olive oil, divided

• Salt and Pepper

PUTTING IT TOGETHER;

Using a blender or food processor, combine all the ingredients except the extra virgin olive oil. Blend for 20 seconds. Scrape down the sides of the blender, and add a splash of water, Continue to blend until it becomes smooth. You may need to add a little more water if needed, but be careful not to let it get runny. Finally, drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil, reserving a teaspoon for later. Blend it one last time before transferring to a bowl. Drizzled the last of the olive oil on top, along with a pinch of sea salt. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours before serving.

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.

What happens to your Pumpkin after Halloween?

By Kaylan Rizkalli, Member of the Danville Youth Council

As pumpkin spice latte season emerges in full swing and visits to the pumpkin patch begin, people across the United States gear up for Halloween. While many fear the scary ghouls and monsters they may come across, the real fright is in the amount of food waste the season produces. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, about thirty to forty percent of the country’s food supply turns into food waste. Not only could much of this food be able to feed families across the country, but the copious amount of food waste also means a loss of water, land, and energy that is inputted into the production of goods.

While food waste remains a pressing issue every season of the year, the Halloween season gives rise to an increased amount of waste, specifically pumpkin waste. People across America rush to buy pumpkins to place in front of their house or carve. A study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that each year around Halloween, 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkins are purchased. Unfortunately, soon after they are purchased, many of these pumpkins are disposed of– wasting both the resources used to grow the beautiful produce and contributing to the growing amount of food waste. To produce pumpkins, large amounts of water is required: around 16 gallons per plant, as calculated by writer Sarah Holloway for Pumpkins & Petals. Furthermore, the mechanical processes needed for its production uses lots of energy, all of which is lost when pumpkins are discarded instead of enjoyed.

The problem doesn’t end there. When pumpkins aren’t used, they enter landfills where they start the decomposing process. Piled under mountains of trash, pumpkins begin to decompose anaerobically, or without oxygen. This produces methane, a harmful greenhouse

gas. The emission of methane further pollutes the ozone layer and contributes to global warming, hurting our Earth. A scary reality.

Although pumpkin waste presents a frightening reality, there are ways to combat this growing problem. Preventing food waste this Halloween season can be as easy as saving a pumpkin’s guts for some seriously delicious recipes such as pumpkin bread or a cozy pumpkin soup. And, my personal favorite, is to clean off your pumpkin seeds to roast in the oven for a tasty snack. Fun recipes aren’t the only way to prevent food waste. Pumpkins make the perfect ingredient for an all-natural face mask. Blending its pulp, some honey, and turmeric makes for a vitamin-C packed punch that is sure to make your skin glow. With the opportunity to help save our environment and get glowy skin, who wouldn’t want to save as much of their pumpkin as possible?

When celebrating this Halloween season, be mindful of how much food waste you are producing. Before tossing the pumpkin sitting on your porch, consider giving it a second life for a smashing Halloween!

Kaylan Rizkalli is currently a Senior at Carondelet High School and loves to be active in her community. She is a part of Model United Nations as well as the Multiplying Good club at her school, and plays soccer and lacrosse. In her free time, she loves to play piano and read mystery books. She is thrilled to be a teen journalist for Danville Living CA and is excited to share her thoughts on various topics to peers and neighbors.

DANVILLE LITTLE LEAGUE: THERE’S

By Melody Martins, Danville Little League, Photo credit to Mel Josafat, Projekt M, Design and Photography

Support Education—Join the 2025 Online Auction for Education!

By Alicia Gee

The Danville San Ramon Rotary Club, in proud partnership with the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation, is excited to announce the 2025 Online Auction for Education, taking place November 1–9. This long-standing community tradition raises critical funds for educational programs that serve learners of all ages throughout the San Ramon Valley and beyond.

There are many ways to get involved—join the bidding, attend, spread the word, or explore partnership opportunities. However you participate, you’ll help make this impactful event a success.

All proceeds from this event will be directed exclusively to educational programs and initiatives that foster lifelong learning and create meaningful, measurable impact for all learners, regardless of age.

Why get involved?

Your engagement will help amplify education in our community and connect you with more than 50,000 local supporters through email campaigns, social media, event promotions, and community partnerships. It’s a powerful way to show you care about education in the San Ramon Valley and beyond—while building meaningful community connections.

Let’s make this year’s Online Auction for Education the most successful yet! Together, we can continue to foster lifelong learning and opportunity for all students in our community.

Day Trips and Getaways

Livermore Valley: Easy Access to the Exciting California Wine

By Ted Johnson, Resident since 1991; Photos provided by Livermore Valley Wine Alliance

About 60 years ago Karl L. Wente and fellow businessman Charles Wetmore peaked over the hill – figuratively speaking – and saw what was going on in the South Bay. The growing demand for housing after World War II had made acres and acres of plum, apricot and cherry orchards vulnerable. Due to the demand for housing, orchards were plowed, streets laid and homes built for what we now call the cities of Campbell and Cupertino, to name two.

Of course, there’s no one hill between Livermore and Cupertino, but the foresight by these two wine growers led to the region south of Livermore to be zoned primarily for agricultural use, thereby limiting residential and commercial development.

The Livermore Valley now stands as a unique, compelling appellation filled with more than 40 wineries. The Wente family’s operation tops them all in terms of cases shipped, but even Phil Wente, the fourth generation to lead the wholly family-run operation, is impressed by how the Valley has produced worldrenowned varietals.

“In the mid-1960s, there was a lot of work ahead of time,” said Wente, “that went into adopting zoning changes and general plans that slowed down the suburban expansion. Now, a majority of our wineries are local to regional in their distribution, and maybe 10 that may have nationwide,” Wente said. “But we are growing and the wines are doing great.”

Proximity and variety

There’s one key element to the region over others: Proximity. In less than a half hour, Danville residents can find themselves under an umbrella overlooking a vast vineyard with Mt. Diablo looming in the distance while sampling outstanding reds and whites.

“We’re 40 miles from everywhere in the Bay Area,” Wente pointed out, “and that makes it appealing to everyone.”

Previous generations of wine lovers considered the Livermore Valley best for whites. Indeed, Wente is considered the nation’s prominent producer of chardonnay and more than 75 percent of the varietal in the country has its roots from a clone developed by the Wente family more than 100 years ago. So, Livermore is best for whites, then?

“That’s a 100-years-old old wives tale,” Wente said with slight indignation. “In the early days, Charles Wetmore in his Cresta Blanca winery made whites that were reputable, as did Concannon and other wineries. But we marketed our wines with Luis Martini, and thus we focused on whites, Martini on reds. That arrangement ended in the 1980s.”

In terms of conditions, Livermore Valley shares much with Napa, Sonoma and other regions.

“The climate, the soil complexes – they’re identical to Napa, Sonoma, and all over,” Wente said. “Yes, some spots are slightly warmer, some slightly cooler – again, just like Napa. The west side of the coastal range is a forest, the east side a desert. You can pick points across the Valley, and the daily averages are very similar to St. Helena. The Livermore region has the ability to do the same grape varieties as Napa.”

Darcie Kent, McGrail, 3 Steves – to name three of dozens – offer a panoply of red and white varieties, each with their own style, thus giving the Livermore Valley its “boutique” reputation. Meanwhile, Wente has expanded to include Murrieta’s Well and Ruby Hill and other vineyards further south in the state.

“Our sales really look just like the market place,” Wente said. “Chardonnay is the No. 1 seller, and Cabernet Sauvignon No. 2. You go with what the consumer wants.”

Want to show a relative the best of California wine but not have to hassle with Napa Valley weekend traffic or Napa prices? Nothing to do on a Sunday afternoon? In less than a half hour you can be sampling the best of what many consider California’s best export.

40 years.

Grab your crayons, markers, or pencils and bring pumpkins, ghosts, and spooky scenes to life.