Issuu

Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

APRIL 2021

Northgate LIVING CA

Meet the Butlers: Embracing all that Northgate has to offer Photo by Julie Cheshire Photography

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APRIL 2021

Table of Contents Letter to Residents

Expert Contributors List

Meet the Butlers: Embracing all that Northgate has to offer

ARF Adoption Stars

Real Estate Statistics

Calendar of Events

Screwy Pasta

The Perks of Having a Sunroom

Art & Algae: Journey into the Curious World of Seaweed with Josie Iselin

Volunteers Needed at Vaccination Sites

BLOATED? Find Out Why!

Football is back!

Cover Article

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE APPTS Award-Winning Holistic Clinic

Telehealth visits

Immune Support Nutrition & Weight IBS & Gut Health Hormone Health Thyroid Health Heart Health ADHD & Mood Issues

We have practitioners seeing patients locally & clients throughout US, Canada, Australia, & UK (925)788-6300

WEEKLY FOOD DELIVERY SERVICE THERAPEUTIC MASSAGE APPTS

Free 15-min Consultation - www.BodyLoveCafe.com

Recipe

Expert Contributor

Volunteer Opportunity

Expert Contributor

Northgate High School Football

Downtown Stages Kicks Off! Non-profit Spotlight

How Northgate and its Students Have Adapted to Remote Learning

Diamonds, Sunshine & Wine – The Perfect Weekend “Staycation” in Napa!

Expert Contributor

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 3

Dear Neighbors, Publication Team Publisher: Jo Peek

Content Coordinator: Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 Designer: Emily Lund Jo Peek

Contributing Photographer: Julie Cheshire

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: Knavolio@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. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2021 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Spring is here! Our open space is full of wildflowers, school sports are back, and we can once again attend baseball games! Whatever it is that you like to do at this time of year, Happy Spring! It’s time to get outside and enjoy this beautiful area we live in. In this issue you will meet the Butlers, a family that embraces all the best that the Northgate neighborhood has to offer. There are online and in person events to check out in our calendar, news from Northgate High School students about how the pandemic has affected their education and lives, and expert articles about building a sunroom, a new wine tasting experience in Napa, and taking care of your health. I’m eager to hear from you and share your stories whether you have gardening or book tips, an adorable pet, an interesting adventure to share, a hobby, a recipe, a charity you’re involved with, or any other topic you think the Northgate neighbors would like to hear more about. I’m also looking for families to feature each month on the front cover. I believe that interesting stories don’t just come from celebrities, but from our own communities. Everyone has a story to tell, and I’d love it if you’d let me tell yours. Send your articles and photos to knavolio@ bestversionmedia.com. Connect with us on Facebook or Instagram and visit us online at www.northgatelivingCA.com. Warmly,

Kara Navolio Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991

APRIL 2021

Expert Contributors

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

Dentist

Dr. Brian Hockel graduated from UCSF School of Dentistry in 1989 and has practiced dentistry for over 30 years next door to the Ygnacio Valley Library on Oak Grove Road. The recipient of numerous awards, Dr. Hockel is active in several professional organizations. He combines his cosmetic, orthodontic, airway treatment and gnathology skills to bring about great changes in people’s smiles and health.

Design, Build & Remodeling

With over 35 years in business, our National Award-Winning Design Build firm has abundant experience with creating your dream space as your friend in the remodeling business! We design and remodel kitchens, baths, whole houses, and additions; from concept through completion, our highly skilled team of professionals are knowledgeable when it comes to transforming your living space. Great ideas, communication, and execution distinguish our process with award-winning results!

Financial Advice

For over 17 years, Chris has been working with families in Walnut Creek and the surrounding area. As a Certified Financial Planner™, he engages people with all aspects of money management. Originally from Plymouth, Minnesota, he is a huge fan of the outdoors, vintage cars and Minnesota Vikings. Chris has given back to the community by coaching and mentoring youth, organizing food drives, and lending professional services for those in need. He lives in the Diablo Shadows neighborhood with his wife and son.

Functional Medicine & Nutrition

Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP discovered the power of Functional Medicine first hand when a “mystery illness” left her declared permanently disabled. Unwilling to accept that diagnosis, she fought back and launched Body Love Cafe, an award-winning holistic health clinic. BLC is all about natural medicine that meets cutting-edge science to provide answers as to why you don’t feel well. We hear you. We see you. We believe you. It’s not in your head and we’ve got the technique and labs to show why. Patients have said “Dr. Zachary figures out why you feel like crap but your MD says you’re fine.”

Insurance Services

Crusberg-Decker is your local independent insurance agency with experience in both personal and commercial insurance. As independent agents, representing only “A” rated insurance companies, Patrick and Scott work with their clients to provide proper coverage, competitive premiums, and outstanding service. They take pride in establishing relationships and offering personalized service to each and every client.

Jewelry, Diamonds & Timepieces

Steve and Judy Padis own and operate Padis Jewelry, which has four locations in the San Francisco Bay Area. They founded the company in 1974 and are proud to have earned a reputation as one of the finest jewelers in San Francisco, serving generations of clients for their most precious moments in life, from engagement to anniversary to milestone gifts. Padis Jewelry maintains top-tier relationships with the most sought-after designers including Tacori, Forevermark, Verragio, Breitling, Tag Heuer, and Roberto Coin. As members of the American Gem Society, Padis is among the top 5% of jewelers across the country.

Landscaping

Pacific Landscaping has been a premier provider of landscaping services in Contra Costa since 1986. We provide 1st class quality at competitive rates. For three decades, we’ve upheld a reputation of integrity and professionalism by strict dedication to our motto: “When Promised, As Promised.”

Real Estate

Rita has been a Northgate resident and selling neighborhood properties for over 25 years. She’s received numerous awards including being nominated as Realtor of the Year by the East Bay Business Times, previously ranked the #64 Realtor in America by the Wall Street Journal/REAL Trends, previously ranked the #1 Realtor in Contra Costa County, and ranked the #1 Realtor in Northgate for total sales volume over many years.

Reverse Mortgages

Annemarie’s been a reverse mortgage specialist for 6+ years. She grew up in Walnut Creek and graduated from Carondelet High School. She is a travel enthusiast and unapologetic foodie, including knowing the profound effect a great cup of coffee or a smooth glass of wine can have. She’s passionate about the changes this product brings about in her clients’ lives and ensures they feel important, safe and honored.

Tree Service

From the diagnostic of tree problems, to pruning, cabling and bracing, tree removal, stump grinding and planting of new trees, Traverso Tree Service, Inc is here for all of your tree care needs. We’re a local business proud to have been serving the community for over 30 years.

Life Dental & Orthodontics Brian J. Hockel, DDS 925-357-3630 admin@lifedentalortho.com www.lifedentalortho.com Gordon Reese Gordon Reese Design Build (925) 885-3770 Marketing@GordonReese.com GordonReese.com Element Wealth Management Chris J. Held, CFP®, CRPS® CA Insurance #0E56816 (925) 433-9533 chris.held@elementwm.com www.elementwm.com Body Love Cafe Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP (925) 788-6300 Team@BodyLoveCafe.com www.BodyLoveCafe.com

Crusberg-Decker Insurance Services, Inc. Scott Decker and Patrick Decker (925) 239-0004 Scott@cdinsurance.com Patrick@cdinsurance.com http://www.cdinsurance-walnutcreek.com/ Steve Padis Steve Padis Jewelry info@padisjewelry.com www.padisjewelry.com

Vic Cvijanovic Pacific Landscaping 925-938-1777 vic@pacificscapes.com www.pacificscapes.com Rita Dhillon Compass Real Estate (925) 570-1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com www.RitaDhillonTeam.com Open Mortgage Annemarie Drosos 530-736-2295 annemariedrosos@openmortgage.com https://openmortgage.com/annemarie-drosos John Traverso Traverso Tree Service (925) 930-7901 traversotree@gmail.com www.traversotree.com

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA www.NorthgateLivingCA.com Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5

Resident Feature Law and found that a little two-stepping took the home sickness away. Lyssa, who lived in San Francisco with her country music loving roommate, was up for new adventures. “I went to a rodeo; from there I fell in love with country music, then found myself driving over the Bay Bridge to dance at the honky-tonk,” says Lyssa. “I saw Jeff from afar, and, finally after learning how to two-step, I asked him to dance.” From there, they dated for four years, which included a detour through Manhattan Beach in Southern California. They married on a beautiful September day in 1998 in Healdsburg. They moved back to the Bay Area, to their current Northgate home, at the end of 2000. Jeff spent much of his childhood living in Mexico and then Texas. He received his Bachelor’s degree in English from UCLA and his law degree from UC Berkeley and has worked for the same law firm, now known as Dentons, for 25 years. Lyssa is originally from Wisconsin and then Santa Rosa, California. She graduated from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo and went on to a successful career in sales. She now is the Territory Development Manager for Best Version Media, the organization that produces this magazine as well as hundreds of others across the U.S. and Canada. “I felt like trying something new, and BVM is a great company,” adds Lyssa. She recruits publishers for the Western region.

Meet the Butlers: Embracing all that Northgate has to offer By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 Photo by Julie Cheshire

yssa and Jeff Butler chose the Northgate neighborhood for its warm weather, good schools, large lots and proximity to BART, but what they have found over the past 20 years is much more than that. They have found wonderful friendships and a great place to raise their family and enjoy so many of the activities they love like golf, hiking and mountain biking. Lyssa and Jeff met at a country bar in Alameda called Denim & Diamonds. Jeff, who had spent his teen years in Texas, was attending UC Berkeley’s Boalt Hall School of 6

Our beautiful open spaces have become Lyssa’s “happy place,” especially when hiking with friends. Jeff also enjoys the hills on his mountain bike with a group of long-time friends. His free time also includes golf at Boundary Oak Golf Course. Jeff and Lyssa have three teens. They were all born in Walnut Creek and two still attend our local public schools. The oldest, Lily, is studying psychology at UC Davis. Sam and Phoebe are twins, both juniors at Northgate High School. Sam and Phoebe have both adapted to seeing a much smaller group of friends and attending school on-line throughout the pandemic. Sam enjoys both electric and acoustic guitar, while Phoebe enjoys making jewelry and singing. When the kids were younger the entire family enjoyed over 19 years of friendships at the Oak Grove Swim Club. The Butlers have adopted two ARF rescue dogs, Charlie and Louie. “They are best friends and make us all so happy,” says Lyssa. “They have this funny habit of sleeping on the back of APRIL 2021

(that is, on top of) the love seat in the family room. Charlie, who we got first, started this, and then Louie thought it a capital idea and followed suit. Now, we just leave beds on top of the couch and that is where they spend most of the day.” They also have a Birman cat named Zazu. “She is a sweetheart that loves to be held and enjoys teasing the dogs,” adds Lyssa. Tahoe has always held a special place in the hearts of the Butler family. They started going there when the twins were just a year old since it was a place they could go to without having to take three toddlers on an airplane. They fell in love with Tahoe in the summertime and have been staying in the same cabin on the west shore almost every year. In addition to their Tahoe tradition, the Butler family has adopted the one Lyssa’s parents started many years ago of spending a long weekend or two every year in Sea Ranch. They have years of Sea Ranch memories and will be there this September celebrating Lyssa’s parents’ 60th wedding anniversary. They also had a chance to take the kids, once they were older, to Europe and from time to time take them to Hawaii. What the Butlers love most about Northgate is the amazing group of friends they have met, mostly through their kids’ activities. “We are so thankful to our dear friends that have been our village throughout the years.” And if anyone should need some lemons, the Butlers have a prolific tree and are happy to share.

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 knavolio@bestversionmedia.com.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 7

Pet Corner

Sparkler:

ARF Adoption Stars Submitted by ARF

Skiff:

Looking for a furry friend during this trying time? Good news — ARF is now offering a no-contact virtual adoption process! If you see an animal you’re interested in on our website, just fill out an online inquiry form. Once your inquiry has been received, you will be added to our virtual adoption queue. Meet your forever friend at Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek, during adoption hours: Noon to 6 pm Wednesday & Thursday, Noon to 7 pm Friday, and Noon to 6 pm Saturday & Sunday.

One-and-a-half-year-old Sparkler is a playful boy ready for adventure! He loves meeting new people and will lean into them for maximum petting. Sparkler is currently recovering from a broken left front leg, and will require strict exercise restriction for a few weeks.

Would you like to be part of the heroic team that saves the lives of rescued dogs and cats? Can you share your talents to connect people and animals? ARF volunteers are making a difference! For more information see our website, www.arflife.org, or call (925) 256-1ARF.

The adoption fee for puppies (<6 months) is $350, for adult dogs is $250, and senior dogs (7+ years) and special needs dogs are 50% off the adoption fee.

Two-year-old Skiff is a handsome boy who is looking for a calm and quiet home where he’s given the time he needs to adjust to a new environment. Once he feels safe and confident, his sweet and affectionate nature will be revealed. He’s looking forward to a home with lots of cat toys to play with and some sunny window sills where he can perch and watch the world outside. Skiff will make an oh-so-sweet companion. His adoption fee has been prepaid by a generous donor. The adoption fee for kittens (<6 months) is $150, for adult cats is $100, $25 off each for multiple cats/kittens, and senior cats (7+ years) and special needs cats are 50% off the adoption fee.

APRIL 2021

Active Listings Address List Price 1190 Northgate Road $1,890,000 208 San Antonio Way $1,500,000 122 Millbrae Court $1,480,000

Pending Listings Address

List Price

3728 Shadowbrook Lane $2,300,000 244 Corte De La Reina $1,750,000 411 Sutcliffe Place $1,375,000 937 Quiet Place Court $1,349,900 3485 Valley Vista Road $1,349,000 127 Bexley Place $1,349,000 2300 English Court $1,349,000 2829 Fyne Drive $1,340,000 627 Creekmore Court $1,258,888 120 Pickering Place $1,225,000

Sold Listings Address

List Price

139 Brodia Way 640 La Casa Via 4285 Arbolado Drive 3695 Oak Creek Court 2333 Belford Drive 2330 English Court

$2,799,000 $2,500,000 $1,975,000 $1,795,000 $1,749,000 $1,349,000

Real Estate

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

BD 4 6 4

BD 3 5 4 4 4 4 4 4 4 4

BD 5 5 5 5 4 5

SQFT

3 5 3

3,455 2,287 2,453

SQFT

3 3 2 2 2.5 3 2.5 2 2 2

3,210 3,205 2,319 2,149 2,164 2,453 2,590 2,129 2,230 1,913

SQFT

6 4 4 3.5 3 2.5

6,150 4,614 3,376 3,868 3,023 2,634

DOM 143 53 3

Real Estate Listings in Northgate

DOM

3/10/2021

1 7 6 9 6 5 30 7 7 4

DOM

Sold Price

5 1 5 1 6 4

$2,799,000 $2,658,000 $2,050,000 $2,020,000 $1,750,000 $1,600,000

Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.

Rita Dhillon Team

#1 Northgate Realtor *Total Sales Volume from 2000-2020

Rita Dhillon 925.570.1010 Rita.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990 Tim Dhillon 925.570.0418 Tim.Dhillon@compass.com DRE 01521381 Khush K. 925.577.3422 Khush@compass.com DRE 01480990 www.RitaDhillonTeam.com

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

April

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Sat., April 17

Virtual Remodeling Seminar @online Are you, a neighbor, a family member, or a friend looking to remodel, and just don’t know where or how to get started? How do I get started? •How do I make sure that the construction costs don’t exceed my budget? • How do I make design decisions I won’t regret later? • How do I choose the right contractor? How do I avoid an ugly court battle? • What is a mechanic’s lien and how do I protect myself? • How do I make sure my remodel gets completed on schedule? RSVP Now: GORDONREESE.COMor call (925) 885-3770 today! Cost: Free Time: 10am-12pm

Fri., April 23

Family Movie Night in the Park - Megamind

@ Civic Park Socially distanced in Civic Park, families will enjoy an outdoor movie experience. The super villain Megamind finally defeats his nemesis, the superhero Metro Man. But without a hero, he loses all purpose and must find new meaning to his life. Registration includes a goodie bag with sweet treats, 2 mini-flashlights, 6 glow sticks, a surprise activity and registration of up to 6 individuals in your household family. Bring a blanket to sit on, low lawn chairs and any additional snacks you want. Space is limited to comply with distancing requirements. Rain cancels event. Movie starts promptly at 8:00pm. Registration ends on April 21. https://www.walnut-creek.org/ departments/arts-andrecreation/arts-rec-open-now/ holiday-events-with-arts-rec Cost: $25 per family of 6 Time: 8:00 pm

Throughout April

Exhibit: A Beautiful Mess-Weavers and Knotters of the Vanguard

@ Bedford Gallery/online Bedford Gallery is thrilled to announce our exhibition A Beautiful Mess: Weavers & Knotters of the Vanguard. While the gallery is still closed and awaits county guidelines on reopening, the show will open virtually on bgviewingroom.org . Watch for possible re-opening date for in person viewing. From micro artworks the size of your hand to mammoth room-sized installations, the national roster of women artists in A Beautiful Mess push the boundaries of their textile-based medium. https://www. bedfordgallery.org/exhibitions/on-view Cost: Free online, $5 in person

available for Public Art in Walnut Creek, featuring 33 stops about the artwork in the downtown area. Look for the pink and orange Public Art signs around town, located by artworks. Dial the number on the signs to hear about that artwork. You can visit the Public Art Walking Tour web app online at walkwc.oncell. com/en/public-art-tours-102961.html

Every Saturday

Farmers’ Market @Castle Rock Farm, 700 Castle Rock Rd. Local farmers and neighbors provide organic produce grown right in the Northgate neighborhood. Time: 10am-4pm www.castlerockfarmstand.com

Everyday

Save the date:

Self-Guided Downtown Heritage Walk

Sat., May 8

@Downtown Walnut Creek Walnut Creek residents and visitors can explore Walnut Creek’s fascinating heritage through a free self-guided cell phone walking tour that allows you to visit downtown heritage sites on your own schedule and at your own pace. The Heritage Walk is part of “Walk Walnut Creek: Art and History Live Here,” an immersive self-guided tour that tells the stories that shaped Walnut Creek’s history and describes the public art that graces the current city landscape. Check out Walk Walnut Creek. Each site is marked with prominent, colorful signage on downtown street lamp posts. The signs include pertinent information about the site and details on how to listen to the audio and, for those with smart phones, how to access a mobile app. Cost: FREE www.wchistory.org/events/historical-tours/

@ Downtown Walnut Creek Dress your companion animal in costume and join the Walnut Creek Recreation Department, in coordination with Walnut Creek Downtown, for this family friendly furry friends walk! This stroll will include a walk through Civic Park, down Main Street, past the library and ending back in Civic Park. Your family can walk anytime between 10am and 1pm. Registration for the event gains access, a pet inspired goodie bag, entry to a raffle with prizes from downtown businesses, access to vendor booths and 1 entry for your pet into the costume contest, as well as guaranteed fresh air and fun with your entire family. Costume contestants will be judged by the public and local businesses. Winners get a prize and will be featured on social media. Registration ends on May 6. https://www.walnut-creek. org/departments/arts-andrecreation/arts-rec-open-now/ holiday-events-with-arts-rec Cost: $25 per family Time: Any time from 10am-1pm

Public Art Walking Tour @Downtown Walnut Creek There is now a self-guided audio tour

Pet Pawlooza - Family Pet Walk

APRIL 2021

Recipe

Screwy Pasta By Lisa Assoni, The Shortcut Cook, Resident since 2015

• 1 cooked chicken breast, cubed. • 6 ozs. Rotini pasta, cooked and drained (set aside)

They would often argue, bicker, and then make-up and serve-you-up. A little testy, but what a pasta! Now I try and buy pasta made from 100% semolina flour from Italy. Yes, pastas have carbohydrates and vitamins as well. Very tasting and filling. It makes for one happy tummy too!

Add the following to a medium size nonstick pot • 1 can Chicken Gumbo soup • 1 Tbs. chili powder • 2 Tbs. ketchup • 1 Tbs. minced garlic, or 1 fresh clove, diced • Simmer, and stir. Add chicken. Serve hot over pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese

orn and raised in San Francisco in a very Italian neighborhood, pasta/ spaghetti was a main-stay. Two older sisters owned a Pasta Shop on Geneva Avenue and made their own pastas.

The sauce is my own creation and so much fun to make. Try this recipe. Tossed with the chicken, it pumps up the protein.

Chow Bella.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Expert Contributor

The Perks of Having a Sunroom By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2012

sunroom can be a lovely addition to your home, especially if you’d like to invite more natural light into your living space. Even if you are remodeling an existing space, letting the sun in can make a huge improvement. It’s a great investment as it can boost your home’s resale value and create a functional space. If room additions have been on your mind, adding a sunroom to your home is a charming way to expand the overall square footage of your home. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of this bright idea for home improvement. Sun Exposure Natural sunlight is good for the mind and body. The sun’s rays provide us with vitamin D, a necessary component for many bodily processes. It can boost your immune system and help reduce symptoms of fatigue and depression. Even in the wintertime when sunlight can be scarce, a sunroom is a great

place to enjoy the light and boost your mood. This kind of room addition can also provide extra space for your hobbies and function as a prime entertainment spot. Improved Visual Appeal You’ll love inviting guests over when you have a sunroom at home. It’s the perfect atmosphere for watching the sun rise, enjoying dining, and entertaining guests. You can enjoy the scenery and the vibrant, cozy ambiance of this unique living space. Serve meals in your sunroom, or even make it a room for guests when friends and family visit. A sunroom can also be a wonderful place to grow plants and expand your indoor greenspace. Versatile Options There are several options to choose from when you’re planning a sunroom. Some popular options include screen rooms, three-season rooms, four-season rooms, and solariums. Let your design-build contractor know what you have in mind. You can share photos to help your contracting team understand your vision, and they may even have some suggestions for you. Take your time to ask questions and evaluate the best options before getting started. Contact Us Room additions are one of the best investments you can make to improve your quality of life, and the right design-build remodeling company will help you achieve exactly what you desire. Gordon Reese Design Build is here to help. We have many online resources and our experts are always available to those looking to invest in their home. Kickstart your home improvement project today by calling us at 925.261.7257 or attend our next virtual remodeling seminar on April 17 at 10am PST.

APRIL 2021

Art & Algae:

Journey into the Curious World of Seaweed with Josie Iselin

Presented by Walnut Creek Library Foundation

A Family Owned Business

Services Provided:

Interior & Exterior Painting Deck/Fence Staining Popcorn Ceiling Removal Refinish Cabinets Texturing Walls

Fernando Hernandez Marissa Hernandez

925-437-8302

xaspainting@yahoo.com LIC# 1063171

Published by Heyday Books

n an art & science salon, author Josie Iselin will share seaweed stories from her newest book, The Curious World of Seaweed, describing how these foundational organisms succeed in their ocean niche and highlighting some cool women scientists. For more information and to register for this free virtual event go to: wclibrary.org/live/

Wed., April 14 7:00 - 8:30 pm

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 13

Volunteer Opportunity

Volunteers Needed at Vaccination Sites

Submitted by Judy Caponigro, Resident since 2016, Northgate CERT Team

ontra County Health Services is looking for volunteers to help with their efforts to vaccinate residents. There are three volunteer opportunities available: • • •

Vaccinators Support Staff Contact Tracers

If you are interested in helping County residents obtain their vaccinations, please go to www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/donateand-volunteer. Detailed requirements and responsibilities are listed for each of the volunteer positions. Thank you in advance. Stay Safe and Healthy Out There. Your Northgate-Area CERT Team If you are interested in learning more about CERT and/or how to become a volunteer, please visit our website at www.walnut-creek. org/cert.

Rita Dhillon Team

#1 Northgate Realtor *Total Sales Volume from 2000-2020

APRIL 2021

Expert Contributor

BLOATED? Find Out Why! By Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP with Body Love Cafe, Northgate resident since 2019

BS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is a very common condition plaguing many Americans that may alternatively include bouts of constipation, diarrhea or cramping. What many do not know is that the CAUSE of this condition may be SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth).

prokinetic and lifestyle modifications.

One of the most common symptoms is BLOATING, especially bloating that is worse at the end of the day.

SIBO has a very high relapse rate, so essential to get quality advice from a well-versed practitioner.

Many patients say they wake up feeling/looking normal and by the end of the day “look pregnant” or their pants are tight.

Dr. Zachary is one of the rare, vetted practitioners on SIBO who is regularly consulted & interviewed worldwide on the subject.

Common SIBO Symptoms • IBS - Nausea - Vomiting - Fatigue • Bloating - Weight loss/gain • Depression, Anxiety • Diarrhea - Malnutrition - Joint pain • Rashes - Acne - Eczema - Rosacea • Constipation - Asthma • Food Intolerances

It is a highly common yet complex issue to address. Want to learn more? Dr. Z recently taught an updated SIBO class on 4/2 that includes the latest research - you can view it on the Body Love Cafe website free of charge - just click the “videos” tab. Contact us by calling (925) 788-6300 or emailing Team@ BodyLoveCafe.com.

In short, SIBO occurs when bacteria accumulates in our small intestines and produces gas (bloating) particularly when we eat carbohydrates or highly fermentable foods. Aside from the uncomfortable bloating, why should we care? Because this condition leads to malnutrition/malabsorption, damages the gut barrier lining, is a key trigger behind food sensitivities and may contribute to a host of other conditions. Some of the key causes/risk factors include: • Slow Motility (ex.TBI, high stress) • Hypothyroidism • Ileocecal valve disorder • Diabetes • Diverticulosis/Scar tissue bowel infiltration (ex. C-section, laparoscopy, uterine ablation, tummy tuck) • SI defect/injury/fistula • Medications (Antibiotics, PPI, immunosuppressant) • History of Food Poisoning • Celiac dx • Scleroderma • Diet high in sugar, carbs, alcohol • Upper GI disorders - (heartburn, H.Pylori) Testing options include small bowel aspiration (invasive, mostly just performed for research purposes), 3-hour breath test (regularly ordered, easy home test), stool or urine testing (indicative, not diagnostic). Treatment options include antibiotics (highly specific protocol), elemental diet (2-3 weeks), herbal antimicrobials along with a

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 15

Northgate High School Football

FOOTBALL IS BACK!

Non-profit Spotlight

Downtown Stages Kicks Off! Submitted by Kathy Hemmenway, Walnut Creek Downtown Business Association

By Zack Torrey, Varsity Assistant Coach

orthgate Football is excited to finally be playing their 2020 season! It began on March 12, 2021 with a win against Benicia (31-14). The shortened season included games against Alhambra, College Park and Saint PatrickSaint Vincent (scores not available at time of printing). Playoffs will begin April 9 and go for 2 weeks. For more information about the playoff schedule, please visit: www. northgatebroncos.org

alnut Creek Downtown (WCD) has launched Downtown Stages beginning March 4th, 2021. It will run through December 31, 2021. Downtown Stages consists of four separate locations (“stages”) dispersed throughout downtown Walnut Creek whereby local musicians, dancers, poets, tap dancers, and other entertainers may perform in the heart of Walnut Creek. It’s pop-up entertainment. Whether you’re playing Ava Maria or rapping to the tunes of Drake or Jay-Z we encourage all performers, as long as it’s kid-friendly. If you’d like to learn more information about the Downtown Stages program or you’re interested in performing at one of the four Downtown Stages, visit www. walnutcreekdowntown.com. While they are unable to pay musicians at this time, they are allowing Downtown Stages performers the opportunity to collect tips. Additionally, WCD will promote the Downtown Stages and performers on their social media-both Facebook and Instagram-as well as their weekly E-Blast to highlight the entertainers. “As a small business owner, I am excited about the Downtown Stages project because it will be just one more thing that makes Walnut Creek a fun place to visit. Having live performances going on around town while people are strolling and shopping will make for an even more unique and enjoyable experience” says Kristin Lincoln, owner of Love + Chocolate in downtown Walnut Creek. Whether you’re a local or new to town, WCD invites you to downtown Walnut Creek to enjoy the soothing sounds of cool jazz, acoustic guitar, horns, violin and maybe a harmonica or two. We understand that as a community many of us are facing challenging times; we hear you, we care about you, and know that our hearts are with you. We hope that the Downtown Stages will add a touch of good cheer to your day as you stroll and enjoy the beautiful downtown. For more information contact: kerry@walnutcreekdowntown.com.

APRIL 2021

How Northgate and its Students Have Adapted to Remote Learning By Prapti Pradhan, Harshada Sharma, and Ella Kopper, Northgate High School Students

hange in the educational setting during these abnormal times has led students at Northgate High School to overcome great difficulty and prevail over various challenges. This year’s importance has been placed largely on efforts to make time away from a traditional school setting the best it possibly can. Whether through virtual lunchtime events that our Leadership class graciously hosts, Wellness Wednesday activities, or by using the help of social media, our school, as well as schools all around the world, have sought ways to keep student morale high. Over the past year, our Leadership class, which is usually responsible for putting together spirit days, Homecoming, and other school functions, has had to adapt to the limitations presented by distance learning. Events such as spirit days, rallies, and fundraisers, have been modified into virtually inclusive events. In fact, our Leadership class is in the process of putting together our first-ever virtual rally, where students have the opportunity to submit a picture or video to be featured! A special highlight from this year was the creation of the Bronco Newscast. Since school is not in person, the school’s administration wanted to make sure students were getting the information they needed about upcoming school-related events. That led our class to create Bronco News, a now reoccurring school news segment that is shown in Homeroom every week. Segments

can range anywhere from sports updates, all the way to fun facts about cats! It comes as no surprise that teachers and Northgate administration have worked extraordinarily hard to make this time as accommodating and close to a normal school year as possible. Adapting to a new virtual format is practically like learning a new language. In an effort to help provide a connection outside of class time, teachers and students have begun lunchtime activities like Kahoot trivia games along with Wellness Wednesday activities to allow students to put aside school for the selected time and relax. Our teachers considerately host a variety of workshops on Wednesdays in that same effort to help relieve stress and keep spirits raised among their hardworking students. Motivation to put effort into schoolwork, while putting that same quality of effort toward activities, has languished. Finding a way to play sports has become hard for students, many whose seasons have been cut short or canceled altogether. The environment sports bring has been heavily altered by safety precautions, limited seasons, and reduced games. Students have also not been provided opportunities to make new friends this year, and going out of your way to make friends virtually has proved to be awkward on countless occasions. Although all of the precautions have been put in place with the children’s

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best interest in mind, these large-scale accommodations have been tough on students who look toward their school for a sense of camaraderie and community. On a positive note, one of the most highly student-commended aspects of distance learning has been the schedule change. School days begin later in the morning, the time we’re in school is shorter, and lunch is extended to an hour, providing students with the chance to take a much-needed break from their screens. Many students choose to use this time to study with a friend over Zoom, call a loved one, and maybe even take a quick nap! Another great benefit of the schedule change is the midweek break on Wednesday, which is used for independent work time. This supplies the chance for students to study on their own time and create their own schedule, helping them become more independent. While the struggles of remote-learning still stand, hope for the future of in-person learning lives on as local vaccine distribution increases and COVID cases decrease. If there is a silver lining to this pandemic, it is that we have all been pushed to become more self-reliant, and have been taught to deeply cherish the time with those who we love the most. As Leadership students, we can only hope to be together next year and once again laugh, smile, and work as a class. In the meantime, we rely on our resilience to keep us going.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 17

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Diamonds, Sunshine & Wine – The Perfect Weekend “Staycation” in Napa! By Alexis Padis

adis Jewelry and Tasting Room in downtown Napa is quickly becoming the ideal destination for a weekend trip by pairing an experience of fine jewelry shopping and wine tasting – a little something for everyone! Nestled among First Street’s fantastic restaurants, luxury shopping and tasting rooms, and just down the street from Oxbow Public Market, Padis Jewelry Napa boasts a 4000 sq. ft. jewelry and wine tasting experience, located within the Hotel Andaz. The Napa Padis location features an enormous selection of sought-after designers like Tacori and Breitling, as well as one of California’s largest collections of Verragio and Forevermark diamonds, which are ethically-sourced and traced from mine to finger. Additionally, the location is aiming to create a first-of-its-kind unique luxury experience by hosting a space for exclusive Padis wine tastings. Padis Vineyards’ first vintage was in 2007, and distribution thus far has been very limited. This will be the first chance for Padis wines to be tasted and enjoyed by visitors. We offer our current releases as well as library and reserve tastings as well. The beautiful weather and temperate climate on our wine tasting patio is a wonderful way to relax, and the people watching in the area never disappoints. There is also complimentary parking at the Clay Street garage to make shopping even more convenient. We look forward to welcoming you to our new location for all of your fine jewelry needs! Mention this article and receive a complimentary glass of Chardonnay during your visit!

APRIL 2021

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 19