Walnut Creek, CA February 2026

A February Filled With Local Love

Our annual Love Local issue is here!  This is one of my favorites because it celebrates exactly that: the big and small ways love shows up right here in our everyday lives.

This month, we’re highlighting meaningful opportunities to support neighbors who need us most. Whether it’s driving seniors through Mobility Matters, supporting Mt. Diablo Village, or helping maintain a bookstore in a library, each organization reminds us what a caring community can accomplish.

We also checked back in with Nathan Pastor and Caroline Chiara —our couple on last year’s cover. They are now a family of three, with baby David joining us last year. They are every bit as kind and rooted in community as they were when we first met them, and their growing family is a reminder of the beautiful stories unfolding all around us.

And finally, we’re proud to spotlight Karel Smid, owner of Commander Moving. Karel is the definition of community spirit: dependable, honest, and endlessly willing to help. He has built a business rooted in integrity and a reputation earned over years of showing up for people during some of their most important life transitions.

As we move through this season of love, I hope these stories inspire you to celebrate the neighbors, businesses, and everyday heroes who make our community so special.

With gratitude,

LAUREL KELLAM, PUBLISHER

@WALNUTCREEKCITYLIFESTYLE

February 2026

PUBLISHER

Laurel Kellam laurel.kellam@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Hemananthani Sivanandam hema.sivanandam@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

McKenzie Walleshauser mckenzie.walleshauser@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lindsey Hickman, Samantha Durbin, Ryan Phillips

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Simone Rotman

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich

LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler

FEBRUARY 2026

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Set your schedule. Make an impact. Build a life you’re proud of.

Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community.

Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?

Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction.

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Blackhawk Open House — February 12, 5:30 pm-7:30 pm

We invite you to attend an Open House highlighting two integrative approaches to wellness: Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Functional Nutrition.

Learn how Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy enhances healing, improves circulation, and supports whole-body wellness, with guidance from our clinical team in a relaxed setting. Raffles and light refreshments will be available.

RSVP: 925-837-6000

Dr. Hayes B. Gladstone, MD

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Call or Text: (925) 427-7000 | 1808 Tice Valley Blvd, Walnut Creek, CA 94595

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ARTICLE BY DEBBIE COHEN PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

BY KAREL SMID

ON THE Move WITH KAREL SMID

How a former professional soccer player built a thriving local business

Karel Smid knows how to keep things moving in the right direction. It’s a skill the founder and business owner has applied to both his successful East Bay-based company, Commander Moving Inc., and to his personal life.

Born in the Czech Republic, Smid, a former professional soccer player, first visited the Bay Area as a young man while traveling.

Looking back, he mused how, at the time, he had no idea he would one day return to build a life here, launch a thriving moving company, and eventually have his business featured in a movie or television series.

Although he loved his life in the Czech Republic, Smid felt pulled to return to the Bay Area, settling initially in Berkeley and later in Alameda, where he currently resides.

He worked in a variety of hands-on jobs, from custom woodwork to roofing, before finding his niche in the moving business.

He spent eight years learning the trade by working for another moving company, building the skills to start his own business.

Commander Moving, launched in 2011, was named as a nod to Smid’s past military service, where teams operated with structure and efficiency.

This, he believed, was key to running an outstanding business – a company identity that reflected strong organization and leadership.

Today, as a full-service residential and commercial moving and storage company, Commander Moving is considered one of the top moving companies in the San Francisco Bay Area, rated A+ with the Better Business Bureau.

Smid’s later, unexpected brush with Hollywood came when the 2018 Lionsgate movie “Blindspotting” (now a TV series) was filming near his company’s former headquarters in Oakland (Commander Moving has since relocated to Hayward).

The acclaimed film talks about two best friends, Collin and Miles, who work at a moving company. Collin is a parolee nearing the end of his probation and strives to make changes in life, while Miles chooses to live a chaotic life.

Commander Moving’s inclusion was intentional: the filmmakers chose to ground the story in authentic local color—Smid’s facility was conveniently located across the street from the film’s production studio.

The producers even borrowed a Commander Moving company slogan, “Excellence in Relocation.”

The movie’s main characters were shown onscreen driving Commander Moving trucks. Following the release of “Blindspotting,” Lionsgate shared a social media post featuring Smid’s company, which included a phone number that played a special message from the actors for callers.

Smid said he was thrilled that his company and trucks were used in the movie and TV series.

“I even taught the actors how to drive our trucks, back up properly, and make everything look real on camera,” he recalled, adding that the producers used the actual Commander Moving name because it was boldly featured on his trucks.

“The characters in the movie wore our uniforms. One character was Commander Miles, while the other was Commander Smiles. People still call asking if we are the same moving company from the film, and are surprised we are a real business! I was invited to the premiere, which was a very cool moment.”

As glamorous as that sounds, Smid is the first to admit that running a moving company isn’t easy. “There are a lot of moving parts … literally!” he said.

But, after nearly 15 years in the industry, he’s learned to manage the pressure and keep his team focused. He credits his girlfriend, Gina Romero, with keeping him balanced. Together, they share a love of travel, diving, sports, music, and fine dining.

The former soccer goalie now enjoys seasonal winter sports such as snowboarding. He also spends time in Walnut Creek for both work and pleasure, considering the city one of his favorites.

He’s involved with area real estate groups, often collaborating with agents across the East Bay.

For Smid, the moving industry is his passion.

“There is a right way to move furniture and care for clients. Attitude is half of success,” said Smid. “Making people happy during the process has always been the most important thing to me.”

Local Love

Meet the Market Makers at the Walnut Creek Farmer's Market

ARTICLE BY LINDSEY HICKMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY VENDORS

Nestled on Locust Street between Cole and Lacassie, the Walnut Creek Farmers Market is easily accessible by foot, bike, car, or public transit, just a short stroll from BART.

The Jam Stand

Barbara Kobsar

Barbara Kobsar has been selling her jams and jellies at Walnut Creek’s Farmers Market since 1990. She has been serving as CCCFM Board President since 2012. A home economist with a science background, she started making jams as a hobby involving her young sons. Today, she sources exceptional fruits from local farms, including Brentwood apricots, Flavor King pluots, and blood oranges for her signature California Sunrise Jelly. Kobsar also shares recipes, cooking tips, and seasonal insights with shoppers, fostering a personal connection between customers and local growers.

Pete’s Gold Honey

Jill and Peter

Pete’s Gold Honey began as a family backyard project in 2010. Starting with a single hive, Jill, Peter, and their children expanded to multiple hives in Concord and their neighbors’ yards. Today, they sell raw local honey, honeycomb, pollen, and honeysticks across several Bay Area markets. Their story of family collaboration, ethical beekeeping, and community-focused growth connects customers with the care behind each jar. The business continues to thrive, offering wholesome, local honey while educating the public on the importance of pollinators.

Open year-round, this market brings together more than 100 local producers, creating a vibrant hub where fresh, sustainable, and seasonal foods meet community spirit.

Founded in 1982, Contra Costa Certified Farmers Markets (CCCFM) is a nonprofit committed to supporting small family farms, educating consumers on the benefits of healthy food, and cultivating thriving local markets.

Walnut Creek’s market embodies this mission, offering a space where neighbors connect, farmers share knowledge, and shoppers discover the flavors of the Bay Area.

Farmor’s Dressing

Alex and Adam Gray

Farmor’s Dressing was founded 18 months ago to complement seasonal market produce with a versatile, flavorful dressing. Sourced from organic ingredients and made in a Lafayette kitchen alongside other local producers, their product emphasizes the richness of Bay Area cuisine. Participating in six markets, the Grays work mostly fulltime, strengthening ties with the Walnut Creek community. Their mission is simple: enhance fresh produce, support local growers, and celebrate the diversity of flavors found in the region’s food scene.

Metta Micros

Vidisha Salunke

Metta Micros is a small urban farm in Concord, specializing in organic microgreens and sprouts, including sunflower, broccoli, radish, and wheatgrass. Salunke has been selling at Walnut Creek Farmers Market since 2018, teaching the value of local, seasonal, and nutritious food. Her venture also supports her son’s homeschooling and personal growth. The stall provides a tangible way for children and adults alike to connect with real food, fostering patience, appreciation, and community in every interaction.

The market is more than a place to shop—it’s a community gathering, with cooking demos, educational outreach, and programs promoting healthy, conscientious eating.

From heirloom fruits and vegetables to artisanal breads, jams, and honey, the offerings celebrate the region’s bounty. CCCFM encourages everyone to support local growers and producers, ensuring these markets remain lively, sustainable, and deeply connected to the people they serve.

Thanks to Grower’s Square, customers enjoy the first hour of free parking at 1646 N. California Blvd (entrance on Cole Street).

Rossmoor Realty:

Decades of Family-Owned Excellence in Walnut Creek

For nearly 60 years, Rossmoor Realty has been a family story. Founded in 1967 by John H. Russell, Sr., the business was built on a deep commitment to the unique community it serves.

In 1981, his son, John H. Russell, Jr., and daughter-in-law, Barbara Russell, purchased the company. Barbara continues this proud family tradition as the owner and leader today.

“I saw what my father-in-law, mother-inlaw, and husband John put into the business to get it to where it is today,” Barbara said. “It’s my desire to keep that going for as long as I can.”

This dedication has made Rossmoor Realty one of the longest-running family-owned real estate companies in the Bay Area. They don’t just sell homes; they specialize in the Rossmoor lifestyle.

Rossmoor is a beautiful, secure, 55+ community. It has about 6,500 homes tucked away in Walnut Creek, some with views of Mount Diablo.

This private, gated neighborhood has two golf courses and four swimming pools. There are facilities for tennis, pickleball, lawn bowling, and bocce ball.  With over 200 clubs and a busy calendar of events, it’s a vibrant hub of activity.

ARTICLE BY RYAN PHILLIPS PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMONE ROTMAN

“With 10,000 residents, it’s almost like its own little city,” said a Broker Associate who works at Rossmoor Realty and lives in the community. “I tell people that living in Rossmoor will add ten years to your life. You have everything for your mind, body, and spirit right here.”

The agents at Rossmoor Realty guide clients through every detail of Rossmoor’s 23 different homeowner associations.

They are known for their compassion and patience. They provide crucial support to clients who are often downsizing or moving to be closer to family.

The office culture reflects this supportive spirit. “We’re very collaborative. We see each other as a team,” said Larry Spiteri, the Broker of Record.

This family-like atmosphere also fosters loyalty, as many agents and staff, such as graphic designer Lou Landgraf, stay for decades.

“Rossmoor is just a great community, full of vibrant people who are still really active,” Landgraf said.

Recognizing that many clients are making a complete transition to Rossmoor, they established a sister company, J.H. Russell Real Estate Group, which handles the sale of their previous homes outside the gates, making the entire move easier for families.

As the first stop for anyone curious about life in Rossmoor, the company remains a pillar of the community. They are open seven days a week and support local causes, including the Rossmoor Scholarship Fund.

After nearly six decades, Rossmoor Realty is more than a real estate company. Guided by the Russell family’s legacy, they are neighbors, experts, and trusted guides. They help people discover not just a new home but a vibrant new chapter in their lives.

For more information about Rossmoor and to arrange a personal tour, call Rossmoor Realty at (925) 932-1162.

You can also email rossmoorrealty@gmail.com  or view the latest listings at rossmoorrealty.com

Nathan Pastor and Caroline Chiara on Navigating Parenthood

A NEW CHAPTER IN WALNUT CREEK

ARTICLE BY SAMANTHA DURBIN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SIMONE ROTMAN

We met Nathan Pastor and Caroline Chiara in 2025’s February issue. And what a difference a year can make. The couple welcomed a son last summer: David Francis Pastor was born on August 19th at Kaiser in Walnut Creek. As expected, a baby changed everything for the couple. Well, not everything. Here, they share the ups and downs of parenthood and how they keep finding ways to enjoy living locally.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST UNEXPECTED JOY OF BECOMING A PARENT?

Caroline: I was surprised that despite the tiredness, I don’t get frustrated when waking up in the middle of the night because the baby is so adorable, which makes those moments really sweet. I love watching him learn new skills, like picking up a toy and bringing it closer to him. And he grows so fast!

Nathan: I was similarly surprised by how cute he is. Everyone talks about “pain and suffering” after having a baby, but I don’t mind being tired. A big joy has been seeing the happiness of people when they meet David. We are amazed by how social and alert he is.

WERE THERE ANY UNEXPECTED CHALLENGES, AND HOW DID YOU MANAGE THEM?

Caroline: The major challenge was David developing colic, which we had no plan for. It was difficult because he would cry exactly two hours after eating for weeks. His condition has improved significantly after we had cranial sacral work done, which addressed a possibly tweaked neck from the birth. We also keep him upright for 30 minutes after feeding.

PARENTHOOD OFTEN REQUIRES BIG ADJUSTMENTS. HOW HAVE YOU MANAGED YOUR CAREERS AND WELLNESS POSTPARTUM?

Caroline: I have a private therapy practice, and resumed part-time work after about 16 weeks. We have a part-time “Superwoman” nanny, and Nathan’s family is local and has provided lots of support. I get acupuncture and often meet up with friends for a walk with the stroller.

Nathan: I own my law firm, and returned to work part-time after about 10 weeks. I worked from home until then so I could help

Caroline. We both appreciated the time together at home in the beginning. Sometimes I work out at Life Time, which offers childcare for babies starting at 3 months old.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL SPOTS NOW FOR FAMILY ACTIVITIES?

Nathan: The Lafayette Reservoir has always been our favorite spot for walks, even before we were parents. While we’re not quite in the park phase yet, Civic Park in downtown is a favorite for my niece and nephew. For a night out with the baby, we made it to The Boba Lounge (formerly  Li Cha Tea) when David was eight weeks old.

HOW DO YOU CARVE OUT TIME FOR YOURSELVES AS A COUPLE?

Caroline: We’ve managed to go on some walks and dates with the help of a doula, a babysitter, or neighbors. It’s a weird feeling—you know you need a break,

“A big joy has been seeing the happiness of people when they meet David.”

but then you immediately want to return to the baby! For our 5th wedding anniversary, which was right after he was born, we DoorDashed from The Cheesecake Factory. The baby was actually quiet for 20 minutes so that we could enjoy our food. Early December, we went to Carmel for a quick weekend getaway and to practice traveling with baby David.

WHAT DOES YOUR PERFECT WEEKEND LOOK LIKE NOW?

Nathan: Sleeping, eating, going to the Lafayette Reservoir, and having a fun bath time with David. We also enjoy walking around downtown Walnut Creek.

VOLUNTEERING IN WALNUT CREEK:

HOW TO SUPPORT LOCAL NONPROFITS

As we celebrate all things local in our February issue, we're spotlighting organizations in our area that rely on volunteers to make a meaningful impact. These local nonprofits shared how community members can get involved and what they look for in volunteers. Whether you have a special skill, a little extra time, or simply a desire to support others, each offers accessible, rewarding ways to give back.

MT. DIABLO VILLAGE:

ARTICLE BY LAUREL KELLAM

Founded in 2025, Mt. Diablo Village (MDV) is dedicated to helping Walnut Creek seniors age in place by staying active, connected, and supported. The organization provides programs to promote physical and mental fitness, social engagement, lifelong learning, and a sense of purpose. MDV also

offers volunteer services for seniors who need extra help at home—an essential part of their mission.

To ensure member safety, all MDV volunteers undergo background checks. Opportunities span a wide range of interests and skill sets, including:

• Home Help Services: Drivers, handy men, gardeners, dog walkers, walking buddies, tech helpers, and more.

• Program Planning: Volunteers to organize or lead classes, social groups, walking clubs, field trips, and other community activities.

• Instructors: Individuals who can teach yoga, chair yoga, meditation, tai chi, line dancing, cooking, or other talents they’re passionate about.

• Speakers: Professionals such as doctors, nurses, gerontologists, legal experts, service providers, and civic leaders—anyone with knowl edge to share.

For information, visit mtdiablovillage. org or email info@mtdiablovillage.org.

MOBILITY MATTERS:

Mobility Matters offers another deeply personal way to support local seniors and veterans: volunteer driving. The organization connects those who can no longer drive with caring community members who can safely transport them to essential appointments.

Volunteer drivers must meet some key requirements:

• Be between 25 and 75 years old with a current driver’s license • Maintain an excellent driving record and a crime-free background

• Have access to a reliable, insured vehicle

• Attend a three-hour training session before providing a first ride Each ride typically lasts about three hours, and volunteers can commit to as little as one ride a month. Contact: (925) 284 - 2215

CALIFORNIA SYMPHONY ALLIANCE:

Founded in 1991, the California Symphony Alliance raises thousands of dollars each year to support the orchestra and to provide vital volunteer support for its education program, Sound Minds, and numerous community events. Volunteers can help:

• Hand out Symphony swag and flyers at community events.

• Work the instrument petting zoo, where kids can touch, hold, and even play the instruments in the orchestra. Assemble paper/practice instruments for students in their Sound Minds education program.

• Helping to coordinate fundraising events.

Contact: (925) 280-2490 or email info@californiasymphony.org

FRIENDS OF THE WALNUT CREEK LIBRARY:

The Friends of the Walnut Creek Library maintain a bookstore within the Walnut Creek Downtown Library. Volunteers are needed to staff the bookstore once or twice a month for a few hours per shift.

Contact: fwclbookstoreschedule@gmail.com

Whether you’re drawn to lending a hand at home, sharing a skill, leading a group, or offering the simple gift of transportation, these organizations make it easy to make a difference right here in Walnut Creek.

We hope you’ll consider getting involved and supporting our local nonprofits as they continue the important work they do every day.

HIDDEN GEM: Alamo

That small town with the horse on top of the shoe repair shop

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY SAMANTHA DURBIN

With a population of approximately 14,000, I’ve always thought of Alamo as a sleepy residential area. It is. But since moving here recently, I’ve found it to be a hidden gem, with a friendly community and a mix of shopping and dining options within a quick bike ride. Many of the businesses in and around Alamo Plaza are family-owned, retaining that small-town charm that seems increasingly rare.

Let’s start with breakfast because, well, it’s my favorite. I have young kids, so my picks are casual and family-friendly. The neighborhood darling is Alamo Cafe, standing for over 75 years, serving diner-style comfort food and reliable service—an outdoor table in the warmer months is ideal for a special breakfast out with kids. Indulging in fancy pastries and crepes at Brioche de Paris is fun for all. Dainty Donuts is a simple donut shop with lots of foot traffic and sprinkles. They have the classics and also experimental delights like ube and mochi donuts. Down to the hand-crafted “lever” espresso presses and housemade pastries and syrups, you’ll want to order “for here” at LEVER and linger. Also check out their littles menu with creations like the Chilly Vanilly and Chamomile Calmer

There are a handful of good restaurants, and I often find myself at easygoing E.J. Phair Brewing Company . When it’s sunny, I sit outside and order the loaded Caesar salad and a beer; when it’s chilly, I have the Athena burger inside at a booth. When I want a solid sandwich, the Brass Bear Deli delivers. A family-owned staple since 1980, my choice is the Ariana with a bag of Kettle chips. There are also made-to-order sandwich trays, quick-grab drinks, and picnic items aplenty. For

something quick and affordable, High Tech Burrito serves me a carnitas burrito bowl that lasts me two days.

At Rothschild Boutique, I always find a new favorite for me (and my best friend and sister-in-law). The owner, Linya, is a ray of sunshine, always welcoming. From denim to the softest separates to date-night dresses, this boutique is my joyful style stop.

Right off the roundabout, Reiki Harmony Wellness emanates good energy. Owned by husband-and-wife Patience and Mike, the practice offers a variety of modalities, including Reiki, bodywork, and myofascial release, Jin Shin Jyutsu®, and more. In their gathering space, Gather & Heal, Wednesday soundbaths and seasonal events happen in the most magical room in Alamo.

What started as an unexpected move to a quiet suburb has turned into a genuine love affair with my new neighborhood.

Alamo is proof that  sometimes, all it takes is an open heart to discover that “sleepy” is just another word for “peaceful.”

Take in sweeping alpine views

DIS COVER THE VALAIS REGION OF SWITZERLAND, WHERE ALPINE TRAILS, THERMAL SPRINGS, AND LOCAL TRADITIONS CREATE RESTORATIVE TRAVEL.

AN ALPINE ESCAPE

AN ALPINE ADVENTURE IN ALETSCH ARENA

An easy train ride from Zurich lands visitors in the Aletsch Arena, a high-alpine region on the south side of the Bernese Alps, home to three villages: Riederalp, Bettmeralp, and Fiescheralp. Known for its ski slopes in winter and hiking in summer, the area is entirely car-free, making walking and local buses the main modes of transportation through its quaint chalet-lined streets.

One of the main attractions of the ski-in/ski-out area is the Aletsch Glacier, the longest glacier in the Alps. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 12-mile glacier is visible from several vantage points, shaping every experience in the area.

ARTICLE BY GABI DE LA ROSA

In Switzerland’s Valais region, wellness and adventure are always part of the same itinerary. Morning could bring a high-alpine hike, afternoon a soak in mineral-rich springs, and evening a table set with traditional cuisine, always including delicious wine and cheese. For travelers, the best part will be finding the perfect balance between exploring the outdoors and relaxing with wellness-infused activities in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

WHERE TO STAY

Located in the heart of Bettmeralp, Hotel Panorama provides no-fuss accommodations steps away from the picturesque Chapel Maria Zum Schnee. The hotel’s restaurant offers delicious regional cuisine, including raclette paired with Swiss wine. A good bottle of Pinot Noir or Gamay is also easy to come by because the Valais region of Switzerland is one of the largest wine-producing areas in the country, with vineyards dotting the steep slopes of the Rhône Valley. In addition to wine and cheese, eating cholera, a covered vegetable pie invented in the region during the cholera epidemic, is a must.

WHAT TO DO

Begin at Viewpoint Moosfluh, the closest and lowest vantage point of the Aletsch Glacier. From there, trailheads lead to Villa Cassel, once the home of a British financier and now a museum focused on history and conservation. The hike passes through a thousand-year-old forest with views of both the glacier and the Matterhorn.

Walk over Goms Bridge, a nearly 1,000-foot-long suspension bridge that connects two hiking areas over the Rhône River. For a final look at the majestic glacier, take the cable car to Viewpoint Eggishorn. At nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, it offers panoramic views of the Matterhorn, Mont Blanc, Jungfraujoch, or the “Top of Europe,” and the most comprehensive view of the Aletsch Glacier.

GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK SHOP

YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING

TO MY

Valentine

ARTICLE BY LEANN PARKER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Create timeless keepsakes for those you love with this easy DIY Valentine Stationary. There is something special and reminiscent of our earlier years of creating homemade valentines for those special in our lives. While stores are filled with Valentine candy, cards and gifts, the thoughtfulness and time put into to a handmade card holds a different meaning. Words are the things we treasure most, so let those you care about most know how you treasure them this Valentine’s Day.

What you will need

• Kitchen Knife

• Red or Russet Potato (for heart)

• Romaine Lettuce (for rose)

• Acrylic Paint

• Paint Brush

• Blank Envelopes

• Blank Cards

• Heart Template (www.silvertoothhome.com/blog/diy-stationery)

• Hand Lettering Template (www.silvertoothhome.com/blog/diy-stationery)

• Light Box

Instructions for Heart Prints

1. Cut the potato in half. Using a small knife, carefully carve a heart shape onto the flat side of the potato. Carve freestyle or use the free template under “DIY Stationery” on the blog at silvertoothhome.com/ blog/diy-stationery. Even when using the template, each carving will come out as unique art like the ones you see here.

2. With a paint brush, apply paint to the heart shape on the potato.

3. Stamp the potato heart onto blank stationery.

4. Set aside until completely dry.

Instructions for Rose Prints

1. Cut the end off of romaine lettuce. Set leaves aside and use the stem.

2. Using a paintbrush, apply paint to the lettuce stem.

3. Stamp the lettuce “rose” onto blank stationery.

4. Set aside until completely dry.

Once your stationery is completely dry it is time to add beautiful Valentine’s Day lettering. If you have beautiful handwriting then draw free hand. If you’re not as confident use a light box and my hand lettering template (found on the blog at silvertoothhome.com/blog/ diy-stationery) to transfer lettering onto the stationery. To do this, first lay the hand lettering template on a light box with the stationery on top. Then trace the hand lettering onto the stationery with a pen or marker of choice.

FEBRUARY 8TH

Tutti Frutti The Musical: The Life and Music of Little Richard

Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek | 2:00 PM

Tutti Frutti The Musical is a full-length stage production starring Emmy- and Broadway World Award-winning actor Dedrick Weathersby in the titular role, with stage direction by accomplished Snoop Robinson, telling the story of The Architect of Rock and Roll, Richard Wayne Penniman, better known to The World as Little Richard.

FEBRUARY 14TH

Peppa Pig: My First Concert

Lesher Center for the Arts 1601 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek | 2:00 PM

Watch this fun, interactive introduction to a live orchestra for toddlers as young as 18 months. Join Peppa and George to learn the different sounds that instruments make, and enjoy orchestral pieces played for children.

FEBRUARY 19TH

Remodel Planning

2026: Budget, Design, & Timing Strategies

3021 Citrus Circle, #170, Walnut Creek | 5:30 PM

Join this free remodeling seminar and learn the things you should and shouldn’t do before a big project. Learn how to avoid designing a remodel you can’t afford, make design choices you will love and avoid costly contractor mistakes. Register at:  Gordonreese.com/remsem-registration/

The Subaru Love Promise Subaru and Diablo Subaru of Walnut Creek believe in making a positive impact on the communities in which we live and work. Through the five core pillars - Environment, Health, Education, Pets and Community - we aim to create change in the areas we and our owners care about the most.

Hosting an onsite adoption with Joybound People & Pets to help shelter animals find their forever home.

In honor of Earth day, and with the help from Arbor Day Foundation, we will be gifting and planting 100 trees.

Partnering with AdoptAClassroom.Org to adopt 10 classrooms at Ygnacio Valley High School and donate 10 Classroom kits.

Working with Boys & Girls Clubs of Silicon Valley-Rocketship Futuro Academy to provide new high quality coats to children in need.

With the help from Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, we are bringing warmth and comfort to patients by donating blankets and care kits to aid during treatment.