Greek Hospitality at Barbayani Taverna & a Bit of Halloween Fun

Dinner at Barbayani Taverna in downtown Los Altos felt like a mini getaway to the Greek islands! The calming decor, perfect acoustics, and outstanding food made the evening unforgettable.

We shared Saganaki—pan-fried Kefalograviera cheese flambéed with brandy and lemon—before enjoying Moussaka, Lamb Chops, Pork Chops, and Scallops. The chef surprised us with a complimentary Galaktoboureko, a warm custard pie wrapped in crisp phyllo and drizzled with citrus syrup. Absolutely heavenly!

for Barbayani… and to Susie’s son Ronny for the great recommendation!

After dinner, we stepped outside and found ourselves in the middle of a Witches & Warlocks Wine Stroll—complete with music, laughter, and Cecile snapping a photo of me with one of the witches at a face-painting booth.

That spirit of Greek warmth and joy made the evening feel truly special.

From Maui to the Golden Gate — Happy Birthday, Kyle!

Happy Birthday to our awesome son-in-law Kyle — devoted husband to Michelle, super dad to Lyla, Emmy, and Gus, and lately the family’s go-to chef!

Cecile, Jason, and I love when they join us in Maui before Christmas — sunshine, laughter, and great memories every year.

He’s also my biking buddy, keeping pace with me and friends Bill Rothenberg, Jimi, and Jennifer Hunter on rides (yes, even through San Francisco hills and crossing the Golden Gate Bridge).

Here’s to you, Kyle — keep pedaling, cooking, and loving life to the fullest!

Reflections After Observing & Photographing the “No Kings” Rally in San Jose

by Dennis Augustine

Reflections After Observing & Photographing the “No Kings” Rally in San Jose

Bill and I biked 23-miles round trip to observe the “No Kings” rally at the McKinley monument at St. James Park in San Jose — not to participate, except for proudly holding up our miniature American flags.

As an Independent voter with conservative values here are "my personal reflections": While there was no physical violence, the atmosphere was tense and bitter. Speakers and banners shouted things like “F-Fascists — F-Trump,” “We love America, but we hate Trump,” and “I’m not a paid protestor — I’ll hate him for free.” And finally: "No Trump, No KKK, No Fascist USA."

Ironically, those shouting “No Kings” were exercising the very freedoms no monarch would ever allow. It reminded me that strong leadership and real results — peace through strength, secure borders, a strong economy, confronting antisemitism on campuses, bringing hostages home, peace between Jews and Arab nations, and standing up to crime and drug cartels — matter far more than slogans and rage.

We can debate and disagree, but let’s not forget: the only true “No Kings” rally in this country happened on July 4, 1776 — when freedom was first won through courage, unity, common sense, and our very survival. No matter where you stand on the issues enjoy the photos and video clip!

Italian American Heritage Month — A Walk Through Memory Lane

by Dennis Augustine

When I think of Italian American Heritage Month, I remember Cecile and I touring Little Italy in New York City with our dear friends Nelson and Susan Bye in October 2023 — part of our Hudson Valley River Cruise with American Cruise Lines.

It was the 50th Anniversary of Caffè Palermo, home of “Baby John the Cannoli King,” where we enjoyed his pizza, cannoli, and tiramisu on Mulberry Street — the heart of Italian pride and tradition.

The visit was deeply nostalgic for me. I grew up just across the Hudson in Hoboken, NJ — where my mother, Maria, arrived as an immigrant from Italy in 1947, carrying the hopes and flavors of the old country.

From the Basketball Sidelines to Heaven: Sister Jean’s Enduring Faith and Joy

by Dennis Augustine

“While we feel grief and a sense of loss, there is great joy in her legacy.”

— Loyola President Mark C. Reed

Being from Chicago, where I met Cecile while attending Podiatric Medical School and playing basketball, she had mentioned the passing of Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, BVM — the beloved 106-year-old chaplain of Loyola University Chicago’s Ramblers, whose faith and optimism inspired a nation.

Born on August 21, 1919, Sister Jean joined the Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1937. In 1994, she became the men’s basketball chaplain, a role she called “the most transformational and transcendent position of my life.”

Her days began with prayer, reflection, and the Rosary, strengthening the faith that guided her spirited pre-game blessings. For her 100th birthday, she received an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Francis, and at 105, a Presidential Proclamation from President Joe Biden, honoring her lifetime of service.

A beautiful life — and a legacy that will keep inspiring others to play with faith and heart.

Celebrating Kim’s birthday at Opelia Restaurant on Main Street in Los Gatos

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I were happy to have Kim and Al join us for this special occasion. Opelia, with its “Turkish Mediterranean feel,” created an intimate and romantic atmosphere in our cozy booth. Unlike some bustling restaurants, the excellent acoustics allowed us to converse clearly without being drowned out by neighboring tables. The staff and ambiance contributed to a calm yet celebratory mood, infusing it with warmth.

Opelia’s cuisine is a delightful fusion of Eastern Mediterranean and Aegean-Anatolian flavors. We commenced our culinary journey with refreshing cocktails, a glass of cabernet wine, and a Meze Combo platter. This platter featured six delectable cold appetizers with warm, fresh pita bread provided the perfect accompaniment for dipping.

Cecile and I shared the Opelia Salad, a harmonious blend of butter lettuce, figs, apples, goat cheese, pumpkin seeds, beets, and pomegranate molasses. Al opted for the Mediterranean sea bass filet, accompanied by seasonal vegetables, olive oil, and fresh lemon. Kim chose the Chicken, herbs, bell pepper paste, toasted marash sauce, and arugula. She later commented the food was to die for.

To conclude our meal on a sweet note, our waitress presented us with complimentary birthday desserts to share. We indulged in Ekmek Kadayifi, a traditional Anatolian bread pudding filled with mascarpone sabayon, and Diyarbakir Burma with Walnut, a delightful pastry with crispy layers and a filling of crushed walnuts.

The Miracle of Release — Freedom Restored, Families Reunited

by Dennis Augustine

Tears of joy flowed through Israel today and Cecile and I shed quite a few as the nightmare of being held captive came to an end. In one of the most emotional days in recent memory, all 20 surviving hostages held by Hamas were released under President Trump’s negotiated agreement.

As the freed men, women, and children embraced their loved ones — parents clutching sons, children running into the arms of mothers — tens of thousands gathered in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, waving flags, singing, and weeping with gratitude. Hostage Square is now Freedom Square.

The exchange, which also saw Israel begin releasing Palestinian prisoners, marked the official end of the two-year Gaza conflict — a delicate, hard-won peace forged through courage and conviction.

President Donald J. Trump arrived in Israel just as the hostages returned home. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog greeted him at Ben Gurion Airport, thanking him for his relentless pursuit of peace and unwavering commitment to Israel’s security.

This wasn’t mere politics — it was humanity at its finest. A day when strength brought compassion, and leadership delivered hope. When the brave and the bold stand together, even the impossible begins to bend.

Israel also received the bodies of 4 hostages from the Red Cross today. May their memories be a blessing.

Remembering Jane Goodall & Our 2006 Visit to the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary

by Dennis Augustine

Yesterday we lost Jane Goodall — a pioneer whose compassion and groundbreaking research forever changed how we see chimpanzees, wildlife, and ourselves.

Back in 2006, I traveled with my brother-in-law Joe McAllister and my late brother Michael Augustine on a trip of a lifetime through Kenya and Tanzania. One of our unforgettable stops was the Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, founded in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, and Kenya Wildlife Service.

Sweetwaters offers lifelong refuge to orphaned and abused chimps rescued from West and Central Africa — giving them a second chance at life, something Jane tirelessly advocated for.

Her passing is a reminder of the power of one life dedicated to protecting others. Her legacy will continue to inspire.

History in the Making: The First Step Toward Lasting Peace in the Middle East

by Dennis Augustine

When history turns the page—peace begins.”

Congratulations to all who helped make this peace deal a reality, including the mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, and on the U.S. side, Steve Witkoff who helped broker the deal. What we’re witnessing is truly historic — Israelis and Palestinians alike dancing in the streets, families of hostages weeping with relief, and voices from every side — even Israel’s opposition party leader Yair Lapid — joining in praise, by congratulating Trump, “Prime Minister Netanyahu, the commanders and soldiers of the IDF, and above all, the families of the hostages…"

After years of fighting and heartbreak, hostages are coming home, and both peoples can finally glimpse a dawn of freedom and peace. Even the press are calling this a breakthrough moment. Palestinian Vice-President Hussein Al-Sheikh of the Palestinian Authority and U.N. Secretary-General Guterres also welcomed the deal and are hopeful that it will lead to security, stability, and peace that will lead to a two-state solution.

To President Trump and all those who shaped this agreement — your persistence has brought light to one of the world’s darkest conflicts. Many, including legislators and families of the hostages, are saying this is Nobel Peace Prize–worthy leadership. May this ceasefire be more than a pause — may it be the first step toward lasting peace, dignity, and safety for all.

A Sea of Flowers in Front of Annunciation Catholic Church Part of A Shared Grief Experience in Minneapolis

by Dennis Augustine

“I stood before a sea of flowers the likes of which I had never witnessed, and felt privileged to be a small part of it.”

Cecile and I arrived in Minneapolis today at the start of our preplanned vacation. After checking in, I felt compelled to take an Uber to pick up a bouquet of flowers and bring them to Annunciation Catholic Church, the site of the recent tragedy.

I wanted to pay my respects to ten-year-old Harper Moyski and eight-year-old Fletcher Merkel, two innocent lives lost, and to honor their families along with the many survivors who now carry both wounds and memories forward.

Placing my bouquet at the central shrine, I joined countless others who had come before me. The atmosphere was solemn, hushed, and communal — strangers united in grief and compassion. By less than a half hour, I missed Vice President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Vance, who had also come to pay respects.

Because a violent act desecrates a Catholic sanctuary, a purification rite must be performed before services can resume inside. For now, all tributes remain outside, where the memorial — a sea of flowers, candles, and prayers — bears witness to faith, loss, and love.

May Harper and Fletcher rest in eternal peace, and may their families find strength in knowing that their children’s memories are being held in hearts far and wide.

Remembering October 7 & Bearing Witness

by Dennis Augustine

Today we pause to remember the tragic events of October 7 — the lives lost, the hostages still held in captivity, and those whose fates remain unknown. Their suffering and courage must never be forgotten. Cecile and I recently watched "Bearing Witness to the Massacre" (A Prime Video), released on October 3. It should be seen by everyone who has the mental and emotional capacity to truly grasp the magnitude of what happened and the human toll it continues to take. Praying for peace, compassion, and a lasting ceasefire to bring an end to the pain on all sides.

Bearing Witness (A poetic offering)

A quiet dawn was shattered by cries, homes turned to ashes beneath the skies.

Families broken, hearts torn in two, where laughter once lived, sorrow now grew.

Names we know, and many we don’t, stories unfinished, voices that won’t

Return to the table, the garden, the song—a grief that is endless, a wound deep and long.

Hostages hidden in shadows of fear, each passing sunrise, another lost year.

Still we remember, still we pray, for mercy to guide the hearts gone astray.

If we bear witness, may it not be in vain, but light a path through the anguish and pain.

May peace find footing where hatred has crossed—and teach us to love, whatever the cost.

Annual Birthday Lunch with My Protégé — and Longtime Friend — Dr. Douglas Robinson

by Dennis Augustine

Every year around this time, Doug sends me a thoughtful text, inviting me to celebrate my birthday with a luncheon. It all began when I founded the Park Avenue Foot Clinic in the 1970s, and Doug was just a college student in his early twenties.

Back then, I had an open-door policy for him to visit my office, allowing him to observe my patient care and practice management. He eventually transitioned from orthodontics to becoming a board-certified Podiatric physician and Foot and Ankle Surgeon. Today, he stands among the best in his field.

This year, we celebrated my birthday at MO’s, a restaurant next to where Opa’s Greek restaurant once stood in historic downtown Campbell. We both enjoyed their taco salad while catching up. Over the years, I’ve referred countless patients to him, including family members and friends.

I’m incredibly proud of Doug’s accomplishments, including building a successful practice on his own. His credentials and kindness are unmatched. I’m also grateful for the enduring mentor-protégé relationship and the lifelong friendship we share.

A Romantic Golden Evening at Los Altos Grill with Cecile — Celebrating 75 Years

by Dennis Augustine

My official 75th birthday, August 26, was filled with love from start to finish, and this markss the second of three celebrations. The day began with a swim at our community pool, where neighbors and dear friends, Susie and Nelson paused on their walk to sing Happy Birthday through the gate while I was sitting on a lounge chair— and continued with a heartwarming call from my sister Josie in New Jersey.

That evening, Cecile and I celebrated at Los Altos Grill, a warm and romantic spot where the roasted Salmon and Prime Fillet were as memorable as the service, not to mention the heavenly Ice Cream Sundae. This intimate dinner was made possible by Kim and Al Chien’s generous gift card from last Father’s Day that we set aside for a special occasion.

To my family and friends — thank you for the calls, cards, texts, and thoughtful gifts. And to Cecile, who surprised me with new shirts and sport jackets at Stanford Mall, and who shares every milestone with me — you made this birthday unforgettable.

At 75, I’ve learned the greatest gift is not the years themselves, but the love that fills them.

From Terror Tunnels to Time Magazine: Hostage – Eli Sharabi’s Story of Love, Loss & Survival

by Dennis Augustine

Eli Sharabi spent 491 days as a hostage of Hamas after being kidnapped from Kibbutz Be’eri, just miles from Gaza. When he was finally freed, he returned to an unthinkable reality: his beloved wife Lianne, and their daughters, Noiya (16) and Yahel (13), and family dog were murdered in the October 7 massacre, along with his brother Yossi and 101 residents of the kibbutz

Eli endured torture, starvation, and the endless terror tunnels that opened into mosques and hospitals. He witnessed firsthand how Hamas hides among civilians, glorifies death, and exploits tragedy in the name of Allah. And yet—he still smiles. He chooses life.

“Our kibbutz used to help Palestinian civilians—sending money, even taking them across the border to hospitals in Israel,” Eli recalls. “Reconciling those memories with the slaughter of my family is almost impossible. But I choose to carry both truths.”

Eli’s resilience and faith in life have now reached the world stage. He is featured on the cover of Time Magazine, and his memoir, Hostage, will be released in the United States on October 7.

His story is not only one of survival, but of love, memory, and the unbreakable human spirit.

Screenshot from CBS Sunday Morning interview with Eli Sharabi / TIME Magazine

A Glorious Hibiscus Bloom Amidst Shopping & A Shared Indulgence for Lunch

by Dennis Augustine

Cecile and I enjoyed a picture-perfect afternoon at the fabulous Stanford Shopping Mall, where the idyllic 72-degree breeze made strolling a delight. A little shopping, a little people-watching, and then lunch at The Melt—our shared guilty pleasure of a golden grilled 3-cheese sandwich, paired with a crisp Cobb salad and a pickle.

What always captures me most about this open-air gem is the professionally tended botanic displays that bring bursts of color to every walkway. Among them all, the large pink hibiscus blooms stood out like radiant jewels—catching the eye of shoppers, diners, and visitors alike.

The hibiscus carries a beautiful symbolism:

In Hawaii, it embodies joy, welcome, and the aloha spirit.

In China, it speaks of honor and personal glory.

In India, it symbolizes strength, divinity, and sacred energy.

Everywhere, it whispers of fleeting beauty and love’s radiant bloom.

For me, on this gentle breezy day, they were more than flowers—they were reminders to slow down, breathe in the moment, and savor life’s vivid colors, just as I did walking hand-in-hand with Cecile.

Birthdays Taste Better with Friends, Cake, and a View of the Valley

by Dennis Augustine

We celebrated my birthday three days early on the terrace at La Rinconada Country Club, where the hills spilled into the Santa Clara Valley and the warmth of the day softened into a cool evening. Cecile was at my side, and dear friends Kim and Al Chien hosted with generosity and grace, surprising me with a thoughtful gift and a heartfelt card that touched me deeply.

We lifted glasses of sparkling vodka grapefruit cocktails and Rombauer Chardonnay, spoke of our grandchildren and of cruise voyages soon to come—Europe for them, the Mississippi for us. Dinner was hearty and elegant, with steak, Colorado lamb chops, and Chinese Chicken Salad.

The night ended in sweetness, with a decadent chocolate cake and vanilla ice cream, and as voices rose in “Happy Birthday,” I felt the gift of life itself: love, laughter, and the blessing of another year.

Rolling Through Nature, Boating Activities, Train Rides & Neighborhoods: Endorsed by my Cartoon Double

by Dennis Augustine

“The journey is best measured in moments, not miles.”

My cartoon alter ego joined me for a solo 21–mile bike ride along the Los Gatos Creek Trail — past Vasona Station, Vasona Lake County Park, Oak Meadow Park, and into the winding neighborhoods of Los Gatos and Saratoga.

A ride full of trees, creeks, wildlife, a reservoir lake, the Billy Jones Wildcat Railway, summer boat activities, and calm streets… plus a little imagination to keep me company.

Pride Parade in Silicon Valley: A Fun Celebration for Everyone

by Dennis Augustine

Downtown San Jose came alive Sunday with the 2025 Silicon Valley Pride Parade in its’ 50th year—a joyful celebration of kindness, and belonging for everyone.

I usually bike to all types of celebratory events San Jose offers (i.e. 4th of July and car shows) with my friend Bill, but with him recovering from a shoulder injury, I rode solo this time.

The lineup was impressive—SJPD & SJFD, hospitals, high-tech companies, Nordstrom, churches, AAA, universities, museums, libraries, and community leaders like Mayor Matt Mahan who was interacting with the children and former Mayor Sam Liccardo, now our U.S. Representative.

Sam, a well-known cyclist, had promised to ride “as a straight guy” and invite the community to join him. True to his word, he rolled through on his rainbow-decorated bike in khaki shorts, rainbow sash—posing for photos, shouting “Happy Pride Day!” and spreading joy.

Vendors and volunteers kept the energy high with free shirts, rainbow sunglasses, and fans. A little girl even offered me a flower garland —how could I resist?

Pride reminds us there’s room for everyone when we show up with open hearts. Or as one banner put it: “There is only one race—the human race.”

"Even Hamas' Own Numbers Prove—This is no Genocide

by Dennis Augustine

Trusting Hamas’ war stats is like letting a fox guard the henhouse. Even their own Gaza Health Ministry numbers confirm Israel’s claim: That out of more than 60,000 alleged deaths in Gaza up to the end of July, 32,113 combat-aged men (or 29% of Gaza’s population) make up 53% of fatalities — and many of the “children” (12,875) were actually fighters as young as 15 and 12,067 were women 15-65.

The one thing you can’t take away from Hamas is along with their backers, they are propaganda wizards. Compare those statistics to real genocides in countries, where populations are wiped out, Gaza’s population has grown over the years, while Israel’s Jewish population is barely above what it was at the end of the Holocaust. And name another country in wartime that alerts residents to leave their homes in advance of further airstrikes and expected ground operations and sends nearly 2 million meals to its residents and still gets accused of genocide.

Every innocent baby or child killed in Gaza is a tragedy but the blame lies squarely with Hamas, who hides among civilians and starves its hostages. The truth is, Hamas brought this war upon themselves and the Gazan people. They could end the suffering today — by surrendering and giving up their arms.

Bottom line: If this is “genocide,” then words have lost all meaning.

Selina’s Heavenly Birthday & a Poem in her memory

by Dennis Augustine

On September 23, we remember with love my niece and goddaughter, Selina Marie McAllister, who would have turned 42. Her middle name, Marie, honors my late mother, and her life was a shining thread in the fabric of our family.

Selina who faced some difficult times had a heart full of wonder—she loved horses and unicorns, symbols of freedom, beauty, and grace. Though her time here was far too short, her light continues to shine through her parents, my sister Josie and her husband Joe, and in all of us who carry her memory.

“Some lives are too radiant for this earth—Selina’s spirit reminds us that love never dies, it simply changes form. She rides now among Heaven’s horses and unicorns, her joy eternal.”

Unicorn Wings—A Poem in her memory:

On Heaven’s fields she runs so free,

With horses wild by crystal sea.

A unicorn waits, its horn aglow,

Guiding her spirit where angels go.

Her laughter drifts like morning air,

A gentle sign she’s always there.

Though earth feels empty, Heaven sings,

Selina rides on unicorn wings.