AUGUST 2025
LAFAYETTE
A Garden Made With Love in memory of Amin Noroozi PHOTOS BY ISAAC TOPP, ACALANES HIGH SCHOOL
The Het of Yr He
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2 August 2025
Greet Lafayette 3
EAST BAY AREA’S TOP BOUTIQUE REAL ESTATE COMPANY
This section has been created to give you easier access when searching for a trusted local vendor to use. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with the businesses sponsoring this publication. These local businesses are proud to partner with you and make this magazine possible. Please support these businesses and thank them for supporting your magazine!
REAL ESTATE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
HOME DISASTER PREVENTION BRP Hardening Experts (925) 322-1440 brp-enterprises.com
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS Community Foundation of Lafayette cflafayette.org Lafayette Partners In Education (925) 299-1644 lpie.org
ACCOUNTING/FRACTIONAL CFO Lamorinda Tax & Accounting (925) 322-2996 www.lamorindataxes.com
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HVAC & WATER HEATING Electrify My Home (844) 637-3733 electrifymyhome.com HVAC SERVICES Energy Solutions - HVAC (925) 778-1335 hvacenergysolutions.com
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CUSTOM REMODELING KC Custom Builders (510) 706-9063 kccustombuilder.com DESIGN/BUILD In the Deets & Konstructo (925) 786-3490 inthedeets.com/konstructo DOG TRAINING The Dog Wizard - Walnut Creek (925) 430-6117 lafayettedogwizard.com
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LASHES & BROWS, WAXING, MAKEUP Alana Flame Beauty (925) 205-0727 alanaflamebeauty.com
Brian Rochford, Rochford Real Estate (925) 285-0439 luxuryhomesoflamorinda.com
LAWYERS - FULL SERVICE FIRM Daniel Horowitz - Lawyers in Lafayette (925) 283-1863 lawyersinlafayette.com MASSAGE THERAPY Neutral Massage & Wellness (707) 334-8111 neutralmassageandwellness.com
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4 August 2025
Greet Lafayette 5
PUBLISHER’S NOTE
LOVE LAFAYETTE!
DEAR LAFAYETTE, We’re excited to introduce our new
Mayor Susan Candell
You Are Invited!
encourage you to keep our featured businesses in mind for your future product and service needs. And, be sure to thank them for making Greet Lafayette possible!
Our Business Spotlight features BRP Hardening Experts , a company dedicated to protecting homes and communities through innovative fire-resistant solutions. They provide safety and peace of mind, helping build a more resilient future. Learn more on page 12. We hope you enjoy the heartfelt stories in this month’s issue, and we
August Mayor’s Musing
School Scene sponsor: In the Deets & Konstructo . Gita Jacobson’s design firm partners with Priyam Sawhney’s contracting company to streamline home renovations and deliver exceptional kitchen, bath, ADUs, and whole-house remodels. Their motto: On Time & On Budget!
WEDNESDAY, AUG 20 — PK & GREET HAPPY HOUR (5 - 7 PM) Premier Kitchens Showroom, 3373 Mt. Diablo Blvd. RSVP at GreetLafayette.com/events (3rd Wed every month) WEDNESDAY, AUG 27 — GREET NETWORKING LUNCH (11:30 AM -1:00 PM) Postino, 3565 Mt. Diablo Blvd. RSVP at GreetLafayette.com/events (4th Wed each month) GREET RESTAURANT TASTINGS Lafayette residents and select Greet business partners come together to make friends and enjoy delicious food! Email Lafayette@n2co.com to be added to the invite list. GREET WINE & BUSINESS ROUND TABLES Select Greet business partners are invited to gather at Deer Hill Vineyards to get better acquainted and to talk business. Email Christine.Raymond@n2co.com to learn more. SATURDAY, SEPT 13 — SUSTAINABILITY OPEN HOUSES (10 AM; 1 PM) Is it difficult, or expensive, or time consuming to “electrify everything” in the home? Come see and learn for yourself. Violet Hsu and Wei-Tai Kwok are hosting two open houses for their fellow Lafayette homeowners. Space is limited. Email Lafayette@n2co.com to RSVP and receive additional details.
Your Greet Lafayette Team Lafayette@n2co.com
LAFAYETTE SUMMER FUN & BEING SAFE! I hope you’re enjoying summer in Lafayette! With amazing weather and extensive trail systems, there are countless outdoor opportunities. Visit lovelafayette.org/visitor/trails for maps and details. For downtown activities, check out shopping, dining, and services at experiencelafayetteca.org. The City has been busy with summer projects around schools while students are out. Current work includes the new pathway to Springhill Elementary, paving on St. Mary’s and Mt. Diablo Blvd, EBMUD pipeline replacement on Reliez Valley, and Central San roadwork on Upper Happy Valley Road. Please drive carefully in construction zones. With back-to-school starting August 12, let’s prioritize student safety by keeping cars away from schools during drop-off and pickup. Parents should consider carpools and alternative drop-off locations near schools that offer safe passage—contact school administration for suggestions. Residents without school-aged children, please continue to “Slow Down Lafayette!” Our safety campaign has been successful, but extra caution is needed when kids return. Since traffic is slow during school hours, avoiding driving near schools during peak times would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you to everyone who made this special issue possible! YOUR GREET LAFAYETTE CONTRIBUTORS AND TEAM
Susan Corkery Managing Editor
Christine Raymond Owner & Publisher Christine.Raymond @n2co.com
Tracie Watanabe Publishing Assistant & Social Media
The Noroozi Family In Memory of Amin
Nico Roig Writer
Isaac Topp Photographer
John Kennett Lafayette History
Jim Scala Senior Living Writer
Janet Fazio Writer & Website Master
Craig Isaacs BlueGoo Photography
Warmly, Your Mayor
Wei-Tai Kwok & Violet Hsu Sustainability In Lafayette
Mark and Noah Muhaney
Felton Pets With Personality
Brooke Mohiuddin Student Life
Nancy Scala Ambassador of Kindness
Susan Candell Mayor of Lafayette
Dan Allsup Ad Manager
Learning & Education
Please let me know if you have suggestions for future topics for the Mayor’s column at scandell@lovelafayette.org.
Effective Dog Training, Right at Your Doorstep!
• Professional medical advocacy at appointments • Healthcare decision support • Personalized care coordination • Future planning assistance A NURSE IN THE FAMILY Your advocate. Your peace of mind. Navigate healthcare complexity with a dedicated advocate by your side.
FOLLOW US ON IG @GreetLAFAYETTE @GreetLAFAYETTEMAGAZINE for FB
Cheryl Noll Community Foundation of Lafayette
Kathryn Ishizu Lamorinda Village
Brett Poole BRP Home
Hardening Experts Business Spotlight
We all have our stories. To share yours, please email us yours at Lafayette@n2co.com.
Cheryl Ringo , RN Concierge Care Management
greetmag.com Your Stories. Your Photos. Your Community. © 2025 The N2 Company, Inc.
DISCLAIMER: This publication is also known as Lafayette Social, is owned by The N2 Company, and is not affiliated with or sponsored by any club, developer, or homeowners association. Articles and advertisements in this publication and opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of N2 but remain solely those of the author(s) or advertiser(s). The paid advertisements contained within this magazine are not endorsed or recommended by N2. SOCIAL Lafayette
Schedule a FREE Consultation! Monthly/Hourly Options 925.477.7318 anurseinthefamily.net
E v (925) 430-6117 · LafayetteDogWizard.com
We’re proud to showcase businesses that share our commitment to fostering local connections. When perusing our pages, keep an eye out for the “Local Sponsor” icon to identify articles highlighting these valuable partners. Please note that businesses profiled may have provided free products and / or services for the review.
6 August 2025
Greet Lafayette 7
IN MEMORY OF AMIN NOROOZI
A GARDEN Made With Love BY NICO ROIG, ACALANES HIGH SCHOOL
Ofelia and Payman Noroozi feel the love. Photo by Jane Smith
Every time someone came, it felt like they were planting more than flowers — they were planting a little
bit of hope in me. —OFELIA NOROOZI, AMIN’S MOM
Amin played football for Acalanes, shown here with his sister, Sahar, at a Dons game.
and special touches, including a bistro set and a heart-shaped piece of limestone. Lafayette’s own Orchard Nursery generously donated and delivered plants. Sloat Garden Center, Blue Sky Plumbing, Calco Partners, Proficient Tree Care, and Rafael’s Fencing also stepped in with resources and services. Tony and his crew, along with a few business partners and volunteers, cleared and prepped the yard ahead of the planting weekend. Then, friends, teammates, coaches, and parents arrived in shifts to plant trees and succulents, lay a stone pathway through the yard, and build a mailbox. The project was an outlet for their emotions. “It can be difficult to know how to help and what to do with grief,” said volunteer and family friend Kandice Caicedo. “Building this garden for the Noroozi family allowed many of Amin’s friends and others grieving in the community to channel their energy into creating something meaningful.” Jane Smith, a family friend and Acalanes Boosters president, took the lead in organizing volunteers. As the weekend came to a close, Jane shared these words while Ofelia, Payman, and Sahar stood surrounded by their Dons family: “These flowers and plants will continue to grow, just like Amin would want all of us to. He would want us to live, to flourish, and to carry him in our hearts as we move forward. This yard, full of color and life, is a reflection of that — a reminder that love doesn’t end, it just finds new ways to bloom.” Ofelia reflected, “These days feel kind of foggy without Amin. But then there’s the garden, made with love by his friends, Dons parents, and coaches. They
A special thank you to Realtors Stella Tsakonas and Stephanie Mull for sponsoring the Meet Your Neighbor section.
O On the third weekend in May, love was in full bloom in Lafayette. Members of the community gathered their work gloves and shovels and got to work building a memorial garden at the Noroozi family’s home to honor their son, Amin. Almost exactly a month earlier, Amin, a beloved junior at Acalanes High School, passed away due to complications from a swimming accident. This sudden loss was devastating for his parents, Ofelia and Payman, his sister, Sahar, and the entire Dons community. What began as an idea in the days that followed soon grew into something larger: a project to transform the Noroozi’s front yard into a space filled with love and remembrance. The Acalanes community and local businesses quickly rallied together. At the helm were Tony Trowbridge, co-owner of Mindful Construction, and landscape designer Dena Rochelle. Without hesitation, Tony said, “We’re all in!” after learning of this opportunity to show love and support for Amin’s family. Mindful Construction contributed the landscape design, procured donations of materials, and oversaw plant installation The Acalanes community showed up for Amin, building a garden to honor him. Photo by Jane Smith
showed up for my family, for Amin. It doesn’t take the pain away, but it reminds me we’re not alone. And for that, we’re really grateful.” Greet Lafayette is honored to share this story. This project demonstrates the power of the Lafayette community and stands as an everlasting reminder of the love for Amin.
Scan to support the Noroozi family on GoFundMe.
Ofelia adds a heart-shaped stone to the garden. Photo by Isaac Topp
8 August 2025
Greet Lafayette 9
SUSTAINABILITY IN LAFAYETTE
How a Movie Changed our Lives for the Better
BY VIOLET HSU & WEI-TAI KWOK
I n 2006, we went to the Orinda Theatre to watch “An Inconvenient Truth,” a documentary about the climate crisis. On the drive home, we discussed, “If what we heard was true, we don’t have 100 years to solve this — maybe just 30.” Our kids were just 6 and 9 years old. It would be too late for them. Our generation of adults had to take urgent action. But what could we do? We felt worried and anxious. We started to research how to live more sustainably. Violet volunteered with the Happy Valley Elementary Green Team. Wei-Tai joined his Green Team at work but later quit his career in advertising to switch to solar so he could work full time on clean energy solutions. Working with others helped us feel less alone while accelerating our understanding of the issues. In 2012, to reduce our fossil fuel consumption, we installed solar on our home and purchased a Nissan LEAF. Despite initially experiencing range anxiety, we’ve become EV converts due to the quiet ride, powerful acceleration and low maintenance. In 2019, we replaced all gas appliances in our home with better-performing, all-electric technologies, including heat pumps and induction cooking. We called PG&E to remove our gas meter and disconnected from the gas grid. It was easier than we thought to become a zero-emission home, with zero-emission vehicles powered by rooftop solar and MCE’s Deep Green 100% carbon-free service. Our home is more
”We can still cook delicious Chinese food on a flat-bottom wok with our induction cooktop.” Photo by Building Decarbonization Coalition
Gareth and Shelley Kwok (2006)
YOU’RE INVITED! Wei-Tai and Violet
comfortable, and better yet, our energy bills declined. In the last five years, we learned about the health and planetary benefits of a plant-forward diet. Our taste buds were worried that increasing the ratio of veggies to meat would be a great sacrifice, but there are so many delicious plant-based recipes that it has not been a compromise, much to our surprise. Implementing solutions in our home is one thing but getting out to collaborate
with others in local nonprofits and serving on the City of Lafayette’s volunteer and elected bodies have been essential to keeping us inspired and hopeful that through a community-wide effort and mutual inspiration we can and will solve the climate crisis in time for our children’s future. Special thanks to Electrify My Home for sponsoring our new Sustainability In Lafayette section.
welcome Greet Lafayette readers to an open house at their zero-emission home on Saturday, September 13. If you’re interested in attending the 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. session, email us at Lafayette@ n2co.com for location and additional details.
Wei-Tai Kwok and Violet Hsu. Photo by Brooke Mohiuddin / @betmphoto
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10 August 2025
Greet Lafayette 11
A BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
PROTECTING YOUR HOME FROM WILDFIRE: A Comprehensive Approach to Fire Prevention BY BRETT POOLE
Ron Polasek and Brett Poole, co-owners of BRP Hardening Experts
Hardening your home can save your home. (photo: Elaine Thompson, AP)
BRP installs ember-resistant vents to block embers from entering the crawl space.
W hen my partner Ron and I founded BRP Enterprises, we were driven by a simple mission: helping people protect what matters most. With over 35 years as a general building contractor in the San Francisco Bay Area, Ron brings unmatched expertise in quality construction and craftsmanship. My background combines early fire service training with 25 years in customer-focused operations leadership, giving us a unique perspective on both fire prevention and exceptional service delivery. Today, wildfire risk is no longer just a rural concern — it’s a reality for nearly every California homeowner. Recent fires have demonstrated that wind-driven embers can travel miles from the fire line, igniting homes in neighborhoods once considered safe. That’s why we created BRP Hardening Experts, our specialized division focused on home hardening and wildfire mitigation. Home hardening involves strategic improvements to reduce your property’s vulnerability during wildfire events. This means using fire-resistant materials, sealing entry points where embers can intrude, and creating defensible space around your home. The goal is simple: give your home the best possible chance of surviving a wildfire. Our comprehensive fire prevention services address the most critical vulnerabilities first. We install ember-resistant vent coverings to prevent wind-blown embers from entering attics and crawl spaces — often the primary ignition source during wildfires. We add ember mesh protection under decks and install ember-resistant gutter guards to eliminate debris buildup along rooflines. Beyond structural improvements, we provide fuel reduction services through our American Brush division, clearing flammable vegetation and maintaining proper spacing between trees and structures. We also upgrade homes by replacing gates, fences, siding, decking, and roofs with noncombustible materials. The most impactful changes typically focus on Zone 0 — the critical 0-5 feet immediately surrounding your home. Clearing combustible materials like mulch, dead vegetation, and wood piles from this area dramatically reduces ignition risk.
Combined with ember intrusion prevention, these steps form the foundation of effective home hardening. What sets BRP apart is our comprehensive approach. Rather than coordinating multiple contractors, our integrated divisions handle everything from initial assessment through project completion. We’ve partnered with Firewise-recognized neighborhoods throughout the region and regularly present to communities interested in collective fire preparedness — because many homes working together are far more effective than one home acting alone. Fire prevention isn’t optional anymore; it’s essential. Every home is unique, but the principles remain consistent: reduce ember accumulation around your property and prevent ember intrusion into your home. “BRP Enterprises delivered a thorough, easy-to-understand wildfire risk assessment with concrete action steps. They installed ember-resistant gutter guards and vents, relocated my shed, and motivated me to remove vegetation to create a 5-foot non-flammable zone. These proven improvements give me peace of mind about my home’s wildfire protection.” —JEFF GARNER, LAFAYETTE
Learn more about home hardening and BRP Enterprises’ different divisions at brp-enterprises.com. You can also contact Brett at brett@brp-enterprises.com or 925-322-1440 to schedule an appointment.
SPECIAL OFFER: We’re currently providing onsite home fire risk assessments for $299 (approximately one hour). Our experts will evaluate your property’s vulnerabilities, identify fire prevention opportunities, and provide a free estimate. If you proceed with work totaling more than $2,000, we’ll credit the full assessment fee toward your project.
12 August 2025
Greet Lafayette 13
STUDENT LIFE
PETS WITH PERSONALITY
Big Shot
Felton’s Biggest Fans Felton the mini Poodle has two super fans — sisters June, 10, and Mozelle, 12. They’re here to tell us why their rescue pup is the BEST dog in the world!
Tell us about Felton. Felton is 7½ years old and is a miniature Poodle. How did he get his name? He’s a rescue dog who was brought to a shelter. They translated his name to Elton, but the shelter already had a dog named Elton John and another named Billy Joel so they added an “F” in front and he became Felton! What’s something funny he does that makes you laugh? Every single time the pool cover opens or closes, he runs out of the house and starts chasing and barking at the pool cover! He also rolls over onto his back and asks for tummy rubs. He spins in circles when he’s excited. Does he have a favorite toy or treat? His favorite toy is his stuffie, Lamby, and his favorite treat is cheese.
He comes running when he hears a cheese wrapper open! What do you and Felton like to do together? We snuggle on the couch, go to the beach, go camping, and he loves picking us up from CAPA Dance. What do you love most about Felton? How he always snuggles up close and licks you, and how he loves playing with his toys and getting tummy rubs. If Felton could talk, what would he say? “Can we go to the beach?” He would also say, ‘‘It’s the best day of my life again!!” every morning and “Come pet meeeeeeeee!!!” Anything else we should know? He wakes our parents up each morning by licking them and walking on top of them in bed. He is the BEST DOG IN THE WORLD!!!
Meet Brooke Mohiuddin, a junior at Bentley School who’s found her focus — behind the camera! You’ll even spot one of her photos in this issue of Greet Lafayette on page 10. Tell us about your experience at Bentley. Bentley is an amazing community that I love being part of. The supportive environment has instilled a strong growth mindset in me, and they promote expression and exploration of passions through a diverse and flexible curriculum. It’s challenging and rigorous, but in a way that feels very healthy. How did you get into photography? I don’t recall ever being uninterested in photography! Both as a business and a hobby, it’s naturally been a part of my life for a long time. I’ve come to find new things I love about it at different points in time. How did you learn? On the technical side, I took a brief class in middle school and learned a lot from YouTube videos. However, what really makes a difference is the practice I’ve had, and chances I’ve had to befriend and learn from other talented photographers. Conducting photoshoots, capturing
Brooke Mohiuddin is a junior at Bentley School in Lafayette.
events, and having to act on my feet has taught me things I wouldn’t have learned in a classroom or online. I’ve grown the most from practical experience and mentorship, which is why I find it important to engage and connect with my community. What do you most enjoy photographing? Concerts and anything with live music are the most fun to shoot, of course! In Lamorinda, I love shooting for ModernTone Studios’ showcases. The performers are talented, passionate, and the Lafayette music venue where they take place is very sweet. I also really enjoy and am fulfilled by the portrait shoots I do for East Bay Magazine. I’ve had the chance to step inside the homes and minds of some very wise Bay Area people. I love chatting at shoots and really understanding the person I’m capturing. Any upcoming projects you’d like to share? I’m looking to highlight and support more nonprofits and community engagement initiatives by promoting their work through photography and journalism. Please reach out if you are part of a project, or know of any that would benefit from this! You can find me at betmphoto.com or @betmphoto.
Curated solutions for your unique real estate needs
Special thanks to RecycleSmart, a valuable resource for residential recycling information, for sponsoring our Pets with Personality section.
Felton with his stuffie, Lamby.
Come to Lafayette
CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE! Email Programs@LLLCF.org with questions.
Rochford REAL ESTATE
and get a well-loved item *fixed for free!
CLOTHING, BIKES, JEWELRY, ELECTRONICS, SMALL APPLIANCES
Find Out What Your Home is Worth
One of Brooke’s photographs, shot at ModernTone Studios Showcase, December 2024.
BRIAN ROCHFORD 925.285.0439 brian@rochfordrealestate.com @rochford_realestate DRE#01470068
One Item Fixed at a Time!
Special thanks to Realtor Brian Rochford of Rochford Real Estate for sponsoring our Student Life section.
14 August 2025
Greet Lafayette 15
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF LAFAYETTE
LEARNING & EDUCATION
Professional service from intake through continuing care. Compassionate and intuitive in-home caregivers who
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF LAFAYETTE: Strengthening Senior Lives in Lafayette and Beyond Did you know? Today, 1 out of 5 Lafayette residents is 65 or older. By 2030, 1 in 4 residents is projected to be 65 or older.
F or Lafayette residents Mark Mahaney and his wife Tammy, their “happy hour” is the hour they spend each Friday afternoon leading a music class at Las Trampas, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to discover their capabilities and lead full lives. For over three years, Mark and Tammy have brought music to Las Trampas participants — witnessing transformations that, in Mark’s words, “bring people to life.” Participants like Stephenie, who spent a year and a half disengaged and withdrawn, surprised everyone one day by breaking into a joyful dance. Darren, once a quiet observer, now dances proudly in the middle of the room. These are small moments with big meaning, demonstrating the power of inclusion and joy in a nurturing environment. For Mark and Tammy, that class is the highlight of their week. Mark’s connection to Las Trampas runs even deeper. In addition to serving as Board Chair, he is also the proud father of Noah, a 25-year-old participant in Las Trampas’ day program. Noah, who has a dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and Autism, is deeply attached to his routines – and Las Trampas is at the heart of it. That bond became especially clear one morning when Noah’s cherished NASA backpack was missing. Noah quietly slipped out of the house and walked half a mile to the Las Trampas campus. The staff quickly called home, and the situation was resolved without harm, but for Mark, the message was clear. “When things felt wrong, Noah turned to Las Trampas, seeking comfort in a place that felt familiar and safe,” said Mark. “He’s a creature of habit, and his habit is Las Trampas.” What Las Trampas offers isn’t just a program — it’s been a haven for adults with IDD to grow, connect, and thrive in the Lafayette community since 1958. “HAPPY HOUR” WITH A PURPOSE — AND A PLAYLIST! Las Trampas brings joy, growth, and belonging to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
prioritize your safety, dignity, and comfort.
Call us for a free in-home consultation
BY CHERYL NOLL, PRESIDENT OF THE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF LAFAYETTE
FOR MORE THAN 25 YEARS, the Community Foundation of Lafayette has been a cornerstone of support for the senior community in Lafayette and throughout Lamorinda, creating meaningful connections and addressing critical needs through innovative programming and strategic grantmaking. LEADING THROUGH EDUCATION AND CONNECTION The Foundation’s Senior Symposium, approaching its 16th year on Sept. 27, exemplifies its commitment to senior empowerment. This free annual event features experienced professionals covering health, wellness, safety, technology, and estate planning. STRATEGIC INVESTMENT IN SENIOR SERVICES The Foundation strategically funds organizations that directly impact seniors’ lives. This year, its grants support the Lamorinda Spirit Van, an essential source of senior transportation, and Meals on Wheels Diablo Region, which provides home-delivered meals. Additional funding goes to Lamorinda Village for volunteer support, Empowered Aging for long-term care advocacy, and Contra Costa Senior Legal Services for free legal assistance. SUPPORTING SENIORS WITH DIGNITY AND BELONGING The Community Foundation of Lafayette supports a comprehensive system of care by funding grants that help seniors age safely and independently, with access to essential services and meaningful social connections.
Noah getting his groove on during weekly music class.
"Visiting Angels cared for my father with incredible respect and tenderness, treating him like family and honoring his dignity every step of the way…” ~ Kristen Barleen, Lafayette
Specialty Care Personal Care and Companion Care
Call or Text: 925.430.6711 · VisitingAngels.com/WalnutCreek
Noah and Mark Mahaney love goofing around together.
Regular Cleaning: Bi-Weekly & Monthly Experts in Deep Cleanings
when booking a Deep Cleaning!
Scan to register to attend this year’s Senior Symposium and to learn more about your local Foundation.
OUR SENIOR COMMUNITY IMPACT AT A GLANCE:
• 25+ years of grantmaking dedicated to senior wellness • 5 key initiatives: transportation, caregiving, meals, wellness, and social connection • 1,000+ seniors supported annually through Community Foundation grants • Annual Senior Symposiums hosted to provide free education, resources, and community engagement
Special thanks to Realtor Ashley Battersby for sponsoring our Learning & Education
Find us on
(925) 834-1815
ENHANCING LIFE, CULTURE AND COMMUNITY...TOGETHER
16 August 2025
Greet Lafayette 17
LAFAYETTE HISTORY
Lamorinda Village Auxiliary — Supporting Our Older Adult Community
BY KATHRYN ISHIZU, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF LAMORINDA VILLAGE, PHOTO PROVIDED
Flavio’s opened in 1973 at 3604 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, now home to Batch & Brine and FedEx. Pictured left is Lafayette Sea Food Grotto, with Petar’s on the right.
"When it has to be Done Right!"
Defensible Space: Protection from Wildfires
Special thanks to Aegis Living Moraga for sponsoring our Lafayette History section.
Defensible Space: Protection from Wildfires
Living in wildfire country means creating a safety bu er around your property. Defensible space is a cleared zone free of dead trees, dry brush, and flammable vegetation. What We Do: • Conduct property evaluations to identify fire hazards • Trim overgrown trees and shrubs • Remove dead, diseased, or high-risk vegetation • Create proper spacing between plants and structures
REMEMBERING FLAVIO’S: A Taste of Lafayette’s Past
F or the past 10 years, Lamorinda Village has supported older adults in Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda by providing services, classes, and activities to help them remain healthy and engaged in our community. Chaired by Beth Brown and Meredith Meade, the Auxiliary meets monthly. Their October 2024 fundraiser was a huge success, raising proceeds for two Strength and Balance classes. “Falls are a major risk for older adults and often result in injuries. Working on balance and core strength helps prevent these accidents,” said Executive Director Kathryn Ishizu. “We’re grateful to our Auxiliary. Our seniors absolutely love the Strength and Balance classes.” The Auxiliary is currently planning its 2nd Annual Sip and Savor event for Friday, Oct. 3 at the Lafayette Community Center. This fundraiser will feature local vendor tastings, a silent auction, raffle, and wine toss to support expanded Village services. Many Auxiliary members previously volunteered in their children’s schools and are seeking new ways to give back. “I’ve loved volunteering and interacting with Lamorinda Village members,” said Andrea Appleton. “It’s a great way to connect with our broader community, and I cherish the relationships and wisdom from members I’ve worked with.” To purchase tickets for Sip and Savor, learn about sponsorship opportunities for this popular event, or for more information about Lamorinda Village, email us at info@lamorindavillage.org, call (925) 283-3500, or visit lamorindavillage.org. Auxiliary members in attendance (l to r): Julie Chinn, Elizabeth Lewis, Suzy Pak, Meredith Meade, Laura-Kate Rurka, Karen Coane, Siobhan Foy, and Mary Beth Towery
it in 1980 to Karen Draper and her husband, Antonio Copene, then moved to Reno, where Fred ran an Italian restaurant at the MGM Grand before retiring in Sun City, Arizona. Karen, Antonio, and Bobby carried on the magic until Flavio’s closed in 1999. The old building gave way to Lafayette’s Town Center, which now houses Batch & Brine and FedEx. But for those who remember, Flavio’s still lives — warm, noisy, and full of heart.
BY JOHN KENNETT, LAFAYETTE HISTORICAL SOCIETY, PHOTO COURTESY OF KAREN DRAPER
E very town should have a Flavio’s — a place where the scent of garlic bread welcomes you like an old friend, where red wine flows freely and laughter fills the air. It was the kind of place where Friday nights felt like a reward for surviving the week. Flavio’s didn’t just serve Italian food — it served comfort. Housed in a slightly crooked building that had once been the Smokehouse, then The Hound Dog, it was unpolished, a little off- kilter — perfect. Orders were shouted through a tiny kitchen window, the kind you’d find in South Philly joints like Geno’s or Pat’s. Kids ran wild. No one minded. It was a place to be together. The inside was a quirky mix of charm and kitsch. The slanted floor helped rainwater drain — Lafayette ingenuity at its finest. Tables wore red-and-white checkered cloths, candle wax dripped down wine bottles, and faux plants peeked out from corners. A palm tree grew straight through the roof, and a cement squirrel clung to it like a mascot. And then there was Bobby Draper. Bobby wasn’t just a waiter. He was the soul of the place. He zipped from table to table with a wink, a joke, or a wisecrack. You didn’t just get dinner — you got a show. Bobby made you feel like you belonged. The menu was simple and unforgettable. Spaghetti. Linguini with clams. Lasagna. Eggplant parmigiana. Minestrone with melted cheese. And that garlic bread — crispy, buttery, unforgettable. It could turn the worst day into something good. By the end of the night, the kids were full and sleepy, the wine bottles were empty, and Mom and Dad had shared a quiet moment. Bobby earned his tip, and everyone went home a little happier. Fred Ferrazzano opened Flavio’s in 1973 with his wife, Marilyn, pouring their hearts into it for seven years. They sold
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18 August 2025
Greet Lafayette 19
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20 August 2025
Greet Lafayette 21
Summer Greet Lafayette Happy Hour Tequila Tasting and Delicious Mexican Food Courtesy of Barrel Shoppe and Rancho Cantina! | PHOTOS BY CRAIG ISAACS, BLUEGOO PHOTOGRAPHY
First Mile crew & friends
Alana & Cady
Randy & Brian
Our hosts, Leslie & Matt Hagel
Aliyah, Leslie, Christine & Marie
Taco Bar by Rancho Cantina
Thank you to the Barrel Shoppe and Rancho Cantina for hosting the Greet Summer Happy Hour! It was a perfect blend of spirits, food, and fun guests in a very cool space.
Rancho Cuisine – Spanish explorers adopted Mexican indigenous foods in the 1500s. Their descendants later traveled to Alta California, discovering local ingredients and creating a unique fusion cuisine blending Spanish, Mexican, and California culinary traditions. Visit Rancho Cantina to enjoy ranch-to-table cuisine at 3616 Mt. Diablo Blvd., or go to ranchocantina.com. A special thank you to Greet’s party planning pals: Craig Isaacs, BlueGoo Photography, Cady Marsh, Cadydid Social Marketing, and Alfredo Lopez, Altitude Technical Services (IT support). RAFFLE PRIZES: CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS! • A Marketing Starter Package – photo, social marketing and IT sessions, and an ad in Greet Lafayette ($1,695 value) • $50 gift cards from Barrel Shoppe and Rancho Cantina
Barrel Shoppe offers specialized single barrel spirits, unlike blended varieties that combine multiple barrels for consistency. Each bottle captures unique characteristics from individual barrel aging. They partner with master distillers for exceptional bourbons, ryes, and tequilas. Visit at 3430 Mt. Diablo Blvd., or go to barrelshoppe.com.
22 August 2025
Greet Lafayette 23
9151 Currency St. Irving, TX 75063
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