Northgate Living CA August 2021

Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

AUGUST 2021

Northgate LIVING CA

Meet Christian Rasmussen: A Coach to many neighborhood swimmers Photo by Julie Cheshire Photography

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AUGUST 2021

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.

Welcome to our August issue of Northgate Living CA. I hope you are enjoying the summer weather, backyard barbeques, and, finally, opportunities to attend events again!. In this issue you will find lots of information about events going on around Walnut Creek, including Walnut Creek’s Arts Around August celebration. We also present Christian Rasmussen as our cover story, a coach to many Northgate area kids for almost two decades.

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. Look for us online too at www.NorthgateLivingCA.com and on Facebook and Instagram.

Kara Navolio Northgate Living CA Content Coordinator Resident Since 1991

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

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AUGUST 2021

Expert Contributors 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.”

Hardscape Restoration

We specialize in hardscape restoration, repairing, cleaning, sealing & staining enhancing your outdoor surfaces. We have developed state of the art equipment with steam cleaning capability of 280° disinfecting and melting away years of dirt debris, algae, and moss. Our technicians are ICPI certified in paver repairs, root damage, settling cracks and trip hazards. “We Bring Your Hardscapes Back To Life!”

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.

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 Concrete Paver Restorations Drew Bogetti 408-828-6903 www.cprpaver.com drew@cprpaver.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

Landscaping

Vic Cvijanovic Pacific Landscaping 925-938-1777 vic@pacificscapes.com www.pacificscapes.com

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.

Sports Medicine

Dr. Matock received his Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Science from CSU, Fresno. He attended Palmer College of Chiropractic West, where he received his Doctorate, graduating magna cum laude. Dr. Matock earned his Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician certification (C.C.S.P.) in 2010. He opened Precision Sports Medicine & Chiropractic in Walnut Creek in 2012.

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.

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 Precision Sports Medicine & Chiropractic Dr. Christopher Matock, DC CCSP (925) 322-8074 info@precisionsportsmedicine.com www.precisionsportsmedicine.com John Traverso Traverso Tree Service (925) 930-7901 traversotree@gmail.com www.traversotree.com

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

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5

Resident Feature Christian grew up in The Woodlands neighborhood and swam for The Woodlands for 11 years. He also swam on the Northgate High School team when they won their first ever North Coast Championship in 1996. He graduated from Arizona State University in 2003. As you might suspect he met his future wife, Dana, on the pool deck at Ygnacio Woods. Dana is also a neighborhood girl, having graduated from Ygnacio Valley High School and swimming on Las Juntas Swim Team and thenYgnacio Woods. They married in 2005 and now have a 4-year-old son, Tanner. Tanner is now coached in the RSM Polar Cubs program by Katharina Stahl, a young woman who Christian taught to swim many years ago; the circle continues. And Tanner is now competing in his first swim season as a “6 and under” with his first meet against The Woodlands, his dad’s old team. “It’s so fun to see him making new friends, which is what summer swim team is all about!” adds Christian.

The Rasmussens can rarely go anywhere in town without running into kids they have taught to swim, including many on Northgate High School’s swim team. “The families in the Northgate area are so friendly and down to earth,” says Christian. “Rancho San Miguel has always seemed like a throw back, classic American community where kids still ride their bikes to the pool, neighbors know each other, and you can’t walk down the street without someone saying hello.”

Many families in the community would agree. Some that have also had long roots in RSM are: Photo by Julie Cheshire

Meet Christian Rasmussen: A Coach to many neighborhood swimmers

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

C

hristian Rasmussen has been the coach of Rancho San Miguel Swim Club for 18 years. RSM is one of three neighborhood swim clubs and has been part of the Rancho San Miguel subdivision for 62 years. When Christian began his tenure at RSM in 2004 they had about 100 kids on the team, and it was one of the worst ranked teams in the area. But slowly and steadily they have shown consistent improvement and in 2017, 2018 and 2019 they placed first overall at the Walnut Creek City Meet. While improving swimmers’ skills is an important goal, teaching good sportsmanship and team work take top priority.

The Stovers ~ Rick and Heather met swimming on RSM, married, and had two very fast polar bear swimmers of their own: Cassie and Cameron. Rick donated his landscape architect skills a few years back to make the front of RSM the envy of the neighborhood.

The Stahls ~ Johannes, Michaela and their children have been diehard RSM since before 2004. All four kids: Max, Philip, Sebastian, and Katharina swam from 6unders through 18 and were huge contributors to the team’s success. Johannes has donated innumerous hours to running the computer desk at swim meets and even started his own timing system/ scoreboard company: time-drops.com!

The Mettlers ~ Geoff, Faye and their children Kassi and Gage are intrinsic parts of the RSM and the Northgate community. Both kids began swimming in the polar cubs and continued through 18. They have volunteered countless hours organizing jobs and fun activities for swimmers and parents alike.

Geoff was the team president when Christian first started at RSM and even though Kassi and Gage have aged out, he continues to announce swim meets and is well known as the “voice of RSM.”

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The Pecks ~ Jason, Lois and family: Jackson, Jacob, and Jane joined RSM in 2013. They have had such a profound impact recruiting friends and family to join that it’s become known as the “Peck affect”! Jason has given countless hours in time and energy serving on both the team and club boards. He is currently the club president and is working hard to ensure the future of RSM is bright!

Christian and Dana also run Rasmussen Swimming School. Between the swim school and RSM, the Rasmussens are thinking about swimming all year long. Christian is proud of the growth of RSM to now over 250 swimmers. Beyond swimming, Dana is an avid reader and is always looking for a good new book. Christian enjoys hunting and fishing. When Tanner is not swimming he is playing with Legos, jumping on the trampoline or watching Muppet Babies. They also enjoy watching the San Francisco 49er and Giants and look forward to visiting some of their favorite vacation spots like Burney Falls State Park or Santa Cruz after swim season is over.

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

Huntington

ARF Adoption Stars

Dhalia

Submitted by ARF 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.

Three-year-old Huntington is an active boy that loves exploring the world around him. He enjoys spending time outside running around, soaking up some Vitamin D and creating his own fun. Huntington would be happy to help any willing family get outside more to enjoy the sunshine. Huntington has a positive history with other dogs and currently weighs 58 pounds.

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.

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.

Three-year-old Dhalia is a sweet and patient girl. She just finished doing a wonderful job raising six kittens. She loves to being brushed, petted and being around people, but is also very independent. Dhalia would be a wonderful and loving family cat.

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.

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AUGUST 2021

Active Listings Address List Price 161 Brodia Way $2,600,000 575 Pine Creek Rd $1,900,000 743 N Gate Pl $1,800,000 3528 Eris Ct $1,650,000 300 Menlo Ct $1,550,888

Pending Listings Address

List Price

2473 Deer Valley Ln $2,985,000 460 Silver Hollow Dr $2,398,000 430 Arbol Via $1,880,000 2950 Corte De Maio $1,750,000 420 Grand Oak Ct $1,595,000 2416 Blackstone Dr $1,550,000 3465 Sutcliffe Ct $1,399,000 2330 Quiet Pl Dr $1,349,900 822 Meander Dr $1,280,000

Sold Listings Address

Sold Price

2108 Quiet Pl Dr 2018 Belford Dr 3117 Bowling Green Dr 2911 Encina Camino

$1,725,000 $1,700,000 $1,535,000 $1,435,000

Real Estate

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

BD 5 6 4 4 4

BD 5 5 5 5 4 4 4 4 4

BD 5 5 3 4

BT

SQFT

4 4 3 2.5 2.5

3,722 3,074 2,901 3,204 2,214

BT

SQFT

3.5 3 3.5 3 2.5 3 3 2 3

4,202 3,376 3,615 3,148 2,725 2,107 2,288 2,149 2,122

BT

SQFT

3 2 2 2

2,245 2,574 2,268 2,253

DOM 27 29 27 2 3

Real Estate Listings DOM in 20 1 Northgate 55 7 5 5 6 8 9

7/10/2021

DOM 5 8 7 8

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

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Mondays in August Public Art Walking Tour

@meet at Lesher (Rudney) Plaza Bedford Gallery docents will lead walking tours of Walnut Creek’s wonderful downtown public art collection every Monday evening in August. Docents are trained by public art specialists and can offer information and insight appropriate for all ages. Each week will feature a different walk.

Cost: $5 Time: 6:00-7:00pm

Tuesdays in August Downtown Heritage Walk

@Liberty Bell Plaza on the corner of Broadway and Mt. Diablo Blvd.

This easy, 60-minute walking tour brings to life the early times and development of what has become a Bay Area destination city. For more information, please visit our website at wchistory.org. A tour booklet with historic photos may be purchased for $5.

Cost: FREE Time: Check in 9am

Thursdays in August Summer Concerts

@Broadway Plaza Dance the night away with free concerts at the plaza.

Cost: Free Time: 7-8:30pm

Saturdays in August Family Chalk Art

@various locations downtown Join us Saturday mornings in August for FAMILY CHALK DAYS. Bring your creativity and positive messages! Help CREATE ART that can be enjoyed all month long. Part of Walnut Creek’s Arts Around August program.

Cost: Free

Time: 10-11:30 am Visit: walnutcreekdowntown.com/ family-chalk-art for locations

Sun., Aug. 15 Summer Market and Barn Sale

@Shadelands Ranch Museum, 2660 Ygnacio Valley Rd. The Summer Market and Barn Sale is a new event that will be held in our beautiful gardens at the Shadelands Ranch Museum. This will be an outdoor, open air market that will feature over 40 unique vendors selling a variety of items. Food trucks will also be on-site.

Cost: Free Time: 9am-4pm www.wchistory.org

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

Save the date: Wed., Sept. 1

First Wednesdays Street Fest @Cypress St. between N. Main and Locust Enjoy a fun street festival full of live music, dancing, tasty bites, wine and beer, Kids Fun Zone, interactive games and other surprises. Diablo Fugitives will perform.

Cost: Free Time: 5-8:30pm

Sat., Aug. 28 Remodeling Seminar

@online or in person (3021 Citrus Circle #170) Do you dream of transforming your space?

We can help turn your dream into a reality.

Join our complimentary remodeling seminar and allow our expert team to guide you through the basic steps of a home remodel, answer all of your questions, and more.

Register now to learn how to: • Keep your project’s timeline on track • Choose the right contractor • Make design decisions you’ll love • And much more!

Let us help you dream a little. After all, dreaming is the first step to creating something new. RSVP: https://gordonreese. com/complimentary-remodelingseminar/ or by phone (925) 885-3770.

Cost: Free Time: 10-12am

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AUGUST 2021

Expert Contributor

EAT REAL FOOD for FREEDOM!

By Chris Engen NC, CRNC, BCHN™

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unger, suffering, restriction and ultimately, failure … WHY do we continue to go on diets?

I was prey to the fat-free, sugar-free (artificial sweetener) 1980’s dieting era. I remember drinking Tab Cola, nonfat, sugar-free yogurt and fat-free cheese. I spent about 30 years of my life on some diet or another.

One day, I decided I was done. I just didn’t want to live my life obsessing over calories anymore. I was sick of eating Fake Food.

There had to be a better way. So, I started an experiment. What if I could eat anything I wanted, in any quantity, as long as it was REAL Food?

What exactly IS Real Food?

Real food is whole food, which is unrefined and unprocessed and does not contain added ingredients and fillers or preservatives. Real Food is not just fuel, it is medicine. The quality of food we eat has a huge impact on our well-being as a whole.

I decided I would eat till I was satisfied of the following Real Foods:

Seasonal fruits and vegetables, full fat dairy, whole grains, wild caught fish (which are free of harmful chemicals), organic or grass fed meat (which are free of hormones and antibiotics), organic poultry, legumes, nuts, seeds, unrefined sweeteners (like raw honey and maple syrup), healthy fats like olive and coconut oil and superfoods like chia and hemp seed.

Do your best each day to Eat Real Food, and watch your mental and physical health lead you to a life beyond your wildest dreams.

Remember, you’re not restricting anything, because the food you are avoiding ISN’T food!

In the month of September, I’ll be teaching my Eat Real Food Course at Body Love Cafe. It includes the following: • •

Meal Plans, Recipe Booklets, Grocery Lists Easy to Follow Modules with Task Checklists, Downloads, Worksheets and more Weekly LIVE Zoom calls for education, support and conversation PRIVATE, DAILY Closed Facebook Group for peer support ACCOUNTABILITY!

• • •

WEEKLY TOPICS are as follows: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS – KITCHEN PREP MEAL PLANNING + LABEL READING PROTEIN + BLOOD SUGAR REGULATION DIGESTION AND BOOSTER FOODS AMINO ACIDS FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND CRAVINGS

Reach out to Team@Bodylovecafe.com to sign up!

I omitted just these 4 things (Fake Food):

Berumen Tree Care Services

I shifted my focus to EATING, not dieting.

Commercial & Residential

Alcohol, Processed Food, Added Sugar and Artificial Sweetener.

I found new joy in cooking and preparing real food. I also felt a little bit rebellious, which was fun! While everyone else was shunning heavy cream, I lovingly poured it into my coffee. I lost 10 pounds, my skin cleared up, my mood improved and most importantly, I felt FREE.

Tree Trimming Tree Removal

Pruning Tree Care

Free Estimates

Stump Grinding Firewood Cutting

What I learned:

Nutrition is the ultimate self-care practice! We HAVE to eat. Life is short. Why are we spending our lives eating Fake Food? We ARE what we eat. We are a new person every seven years, and cellularly changing every minute. What we put in our bodies makes up WHO we are.

Carlos Berumen | 925.457.5017 | Office:510.436.0197 carlosberumentreeservices@gmail.com License- Bonded- Insured

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Expert Contributor

How to Water a Mature Tree During a Drought

By Alyce Traverso, Traverso Tree Service

I

t’s here. The “D” word has arrived and every day it is becoming more and more part of California’s vocabulary - drought. Already several municipalities within the San Francisco Bay Area are talking about rationing water this year. If you have lived here for awhile you may already know the drill and have plans for cutting back to help conserve. What you may not know is how cutting back will affect your mature tree.

Mature Trees Are Important

If you are lucky enough to have a mature, large tree (or several of them) throughout your yard, then you are aware of the benefits they provide: shade for those hot summer days, a place for wildlife to live, and added real estate value to your property. Therefore, it is important to make sure they survive.

How do I know if my tree needs water?

Your tree will tell you if you know where to look. Look at the top of your tree. If there are wispy dead twigs at the very top or the

leaves are undersized and/or turning brown, but the rest of the tree looks relatively good, your tree is not getting enough water. There is not enough water to reach to the very tippy-top of the tree. This is one of the first signs of drought stress. Mature trees vary widely in their need for water depending on size, age, soil composition, slope and most importantly: species. The best way to tell if your tree needs water is to probe the soil. Find a 12” long screwdriver (or similar type of probe) and insert it into the soil at the drip line of your tree (See the diagram indicating where the drip line is). If it slides in easily and has tiny clumps of moist soil attached to it, then the soil is moist and doesn’t need watering. But if the soil is rock hard and powdery dry, time to water!

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AUGUST 2021

“But we NEVER water our mature tree”

Some of you may be thinking, “We never water our large Valley oak (or whatever large tree you may have) and it is doing fine.” Yes, your tree may appear to not be getting any water during the summer months but if they are planted on very edges of your landscape they are accustomed to regular summer watering (remember roots can grow to be twice the distance as the tree is tall to find water). Also, you are not accounting for the decrease in water during the winter months.

Your large tree can probably handle a couple of winters with less than average rainfall but even native landscape trees (such as oaks or redwoods) will require some water during a drought. The best thing to do is to put the tree on your watch list and monitor how it is doing. If it looks stressed, watering it might pull it back from the brink.

What about using a soaker hose?

A soaker hose is an acceptable way to water your mature tree especially if it is located on a slope. Wrap the soaker hose round the tree two thirds of the way out from the drip line. (See diagram for ideal watering zone) You can zig-zag the hose within the watering zone to better cover the area. Generally speaking, with the heavy clay soil that tends to be prominent within Contra Costa County, it will take an hour for the water from a soaker hose to penetrate the soil one inch.

Therefore, you may have to leave the hose on for six to eight hours for the water to reach the absorption roots. However, if your trees is growing in sandy soil it will take less time to reach the roots. Again every situation is different and the first time you use the soaker hose, use your 12” soil probe to monitor the rate of water and make adjustments.

What is the best method for watering my mature tree?

The goal is to get water down to the absorption roots which tend to grow in the top 8-10” of the soil (See the diagram above). If your tree is on flat ground an overhead sprinkler works best. Set it up to cover the area from the trunk to the drip line. Be careful not to have the sprinkler hit the base of the tree. Having your irrigation blasts the tree trunk can cause other problems, plus you are wasting water as there are no absorption roots at the base of the tree.

Set an empty tuna fish can within the area of the sprinkler and turn on the water. When the can fills up (about 2 inches deep) turn off the water. Your tree has received 2 inches of water. You may need to move the hose several times to cover the area. On your first try, set a timer and check on the system periodically to make sure the water isn’t running off into the gutter. If it is, you will need to turn off the sprinkler and wait for the soil to absorb the water. Once the area from the trunk to the dripline has received 2 inches of water, check it once a week and only water again when the soil is dry.

What about laser tubing to water my tree?

Laser tubing was designed as an upgrade to the old fashioned drip irrigation with holes in the tubing (not an add on emitter) designed not to clog. You can purchase laser tubing with holes spaced 6” to 24” apart. Laser tubing doesn’t allow for maximum coverage like you get with overhead sprinklers but laser tubing can be very effective if you carefully calculate the amount of water that is being applied. The biggest problem with any drip irrigation system is that it is usually installed when the tree is young and if it is not expanded to account for the growth of the tree it will under water the tree. And if it is hooked up to a clock to come on automatically, be sure to periodically check it make sure is still working properly.

The goal is moist, not soggy

You want to avoid over watering your tree Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

and creating a quagmire of soggy mud. Tree roots need to breath and if the soil is too saturated the roots can suffocate and die.

And to confuse matters, the symptom of an over watered tree looks the same as a drought stressed tree. That’s why it’s important to monitor the watering process. If the soil is soggy, stop watering and let the soil dry out.

Continue to water your mature tree until the first rain

Of course the most critical time to monitor your mature tree’s water needs is during summer when the days are long and the sun is hot. Depending on your tree you may need to deep soak twice a month or more. But once the days shorten and the weather begins to cool, you can cut back to once a month until the winter rains take over.

Warning! Watering mature trees in a drought will cost you.

During the last drought we recommended a client deep soak their mature tree twice a month. They followed our recommendation and two months later called to say that their tree was looking better but it had cost them an additional $200 on their water bill. A $200 spike in your water bill may be a little disconcerting however, what is your mature tree worth to you? It can take decades for a tree to grow to maturity therefore, a couple of above average water bills can be very cost effective. And compared to the cost of removing the tree when it’s dead is a no brainer.

How do you decide if your tree is worth saving?

The best way is to ask someone who knows!

Any one of our certified arborists can evaluate the health and condition of your tree and let you know whether it is worthy of preservation. If it is a non-native tree like a birch that likes lots of water and it looks like the birch in this picture at the start of summer, it may not worth saving.

Watering mature trees is not an exact science.

Arborists wish there was a one-size-fits-all watering instructions for trees. That would definitely make our job easier! But that is not to be because every situation is different.

This article could on forever with hundreds different scenarios for different species of trees. That’s why having an experienced certified arborist consult with you about your trees is the best way to determine how to water them.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 13

Walnut Festival returns -

a family favorite Walnut Creek tradition!

By Tammy Lagomarsino, Walnut Festival Association

T

housands are expected to descend on Heather Farm Park starting Thursday, September 23rd through Sunday, September 26th, 2021 for the Walnut Festival. The four-day Festival offers family-friendly entertainment, live music, a large carnival with more than 15 rides, Kid Zone, a showcase of amazing local and regional talent including artists, craftsmen, designers, jewelers, builders, food specialties, craft beer garden, and more.

ADMISSION AND HOURS OF OPERATION The cost of admission is $11 per person (Free for kids 5 and under, 65 or older and active military (ID required)); bring a can of food for donation and the price is $10.

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For more information about parking, carnival ride tickets and the free supervised bicycle valet, please visit wwww.thewalnutfestival.org.

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AUGUST 2021

Expert Contributor

Your Child's First Dental Visit

By Brian J. Hockel, DDS, Life Dental & Orthodontics, Resident since 1964

FIRST TOOTH? FIRST DENTAL VISIT!

According to the American Dental Association, the recommended time for a child’s first dental visit is within six months of when the first tooth comes in, but no later than the first birthday.

THE FIRST OFFICE VISITS

To start a child’s positive relationship with their dentist, our very young patients initially accompany a parent to a dental hygiene visit, sitting on the lap of another supervising adult.

They simply watch mom or dad have their teeth cleaned. Children learn by observation. When ready, the child can sit on the parent’s lap and

ride up and down in the dental chair, perhaps letting the dentist take a quick look at their smile. Again, when the child is ready, the doctor can “count their teeth” (a.k.a, do an exam) to see that oral development is normal and check for any decay. Regular visits can soon include a professional cleaning and, eventually, x-rays to check the development of teeth and the health of the roots. The key is to make each experience a positive one.

OPTIMIZING ORAL DEVELOPMENT FROM DAY 1

An important way to help develop good dental and facial growth is to breastfeed, or at least to use a “slow-flow” nipple for bottle feeding that most closely mimics the delivery mechanism of the human breast.

As much as possible, avoid bottles, pacifiers, “sippy cups,” and even mushy baby food, which can prevent proper jaw, tongue, and facial muscle development. Look up “babyled weaning” to learn how transitioning from breastfeeding directly to solid foods is optimal and highly recommended.

If the baby has trouble latching on during breastfeeding, one problem to look for is a tongue tie, where a string of tissue connects the tongue or cheek to the lower jaw. Too tight a connection means the baby cannot make a “seal” around the nipple to ensure getting enough to eat. A tongue-tie like this is a fixable problem, especially at this young age. Ask us for a referral to a knowledgeable specialist; many pediatricians and lactation consultants are still learning how significant a tongue-tie can be.

BRUSHING

As soon as the first tooth appears, start brushing twice daily to remove cavity-causing plaque. Use a soft toothbrush and limit toothpaste to the size of a grain of rice for children ages 0-3, and the size of a pea for those ages 3 and over. Fluoride is a great help to prevent cavities. Our tap water here in Walnut Creek is fluoridated, but for those who rely more on bottled water, which does not have fluoride, it is even more important to protect the teeth by using fluoridated toothpaste or rinses. Please note that fluoride is not meant to be consumed, so encourage your child to spit the toothpaste out after brushing rather than swallowing it!

As parents, we naturally want to do what is best for our children; start them off right by developing good dental habits right from the beginning, so they can enjoy a healthy smile for a lifetime!

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 15

Expert Contributor

Tips from an Expert:

The Secrets of Bathroom Remodeling

By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build

R

emodeling any space in your home is an act of love and self care. In altering your space to your needs and preferences, you are giving yourself a gift that keeps on giving. While your tastes will inspire the style of your design, an expert eye can help you to achieve the results you deserve - so that you can enjoy your remodel for years to come. Here are some expert tips and secrets to help you create the bathroom of your dreams.

Make Space

Many people like a bathroom with a lot of open space, so finding as much extra space as possible is a good place to start. If a wall can be moved or removed, this can free up space that can be added to your bathroom. If space cannot be added, you can adjust the layout and or swap out elements of your existing bathroom to allow the space to be more usable and feel bigger. Sometimes, rethinking the configuration of your bathroom can make all the difference in making it seem and feel larger.

Lighten Up

Consider the addition of recessed lighting throughout your ceiling to lighten up the room. Added light can make a room more functional and beautiful. It can also make it seem larger and more spacious. If you’d like to have the option of lighting versatility in your bathroom, consider adding a dimmer switch to the recessed lighting to personalize your lighting. Dim light can be nice for relaxation, while bright light can help you to get ready for the day.

Add Color

Ever thought of adding trim around your bathroom? While whites and cool neutrals are often the most popular choices for bathroom colors, a pop of color can help your space look vibrant and unique. You can add a simple tile trim, vibrant wallpaper, or simply paint an accent wall. Personalizing your space will help you to get the most enjoyment from it.

Out of Sight

Consider adding storage where you can. Bonus points if you can find a way to add storage that does not take up extra space. Luckily, you will likely be able to work with your design build contractor to come up with ways to achieve this.

Contact Us

We can help you transform your bathroom into the space of your dreams. Our expert team will provide you with the knowledge and experience to make all of your remodeling goals into reality. Contact us today for more information. We look forward to helping you make your remodeling dreams come true.

16

AUGUST 2021

Arts and Culture

Arts Around August ~

a month-long celebration of the arts

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

C

ome celebrate the arts in downtown Walnut Creek!

The City of Walnut Creek and eleven of its community organizations are collaborating to present Arts Around August, a month-long program in downtown Walnut Creek to celebrate the performing, visual and culinary arts. Many events are free and designed to welcome everyone downtown again as businesses, restaurants and arts programs emerge from the pandemic.

Moveable Feast is a gourmet progressive food tour happening every Wed. at three of Walnut Creek’s best restaurants.

There are events or activities every day during the month of August. Every Thursday you can dance the night away at Summer Concerts at Broadway Plaza; Wednesday evenings offer an opportunity to join a progressive dinner experience called Moveable Feast. And as the Lesher Center

Fantasy Forum will present Cinderella on the Plaza Aug. 15 and 22.

Tainted Love will perform at Broadway Plaza’s Summer Concert on Aug. 26.

re-opens with indoor performances by many arts groups, you can find tickets for Festival Opera, youth performances and many more.

For families, there will be Movies on the Roof (of the Lesher garage), First Wednesday Street Fest (Sept. 1), Family Theatre Sundays (Fantasy Forum performances of Cinderella) and Family Chalk Art Days. The last weekend of August features Paint the DownTOWN (a plein air art festival where local artists will be painting outdoors and sharing their creative process). The event ends on Aug. 29 with an art show and awards.

Ongoing activities include Downtown Stages (presented by local performing artists), Public Art Walking Tours, History Tours, and impromptu opportunities to play or hear music from eight Painted Pianos located throughout downtown.

Grab a group of friends or family and discover hidden treasures throughout downtown in weekly Art & History Scavenger Hunts or check out the Makers Market Open-Air Marketplace at Broadway Plaza on Aug. 28 where local artisans sell their hand-crafted items.

Kevin Wilk, Mayor of Walnut Creek, says, “We are very excited and proud that eleven non-profit and business organizations, as well as the City of Walnut Creek, are all working together to bring Arts Around August to our downtown this summer. With downtown open, and many programs starting again, it will be a great celebration of the arts with many activities for all ages. We hope that residents of Walnut Creek and neighboring cities will join us downtown for these fun events and help bring back a sense of community and vibrancy to our great city.”

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Please visit www.walnutcreekdowntown.com/ArtsaroundAugust for more information and a complete calendar of events, times and locations.

Some components and events are subject to change pending COVID-19 state and county guideline updates.

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 17

New Podcast features people you may know

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

M

ike Ahn, a Physical Education teacher at Northgate High School, started a podcast last November that features interviews with many past students as well as NHS teachers, coaches and parents. “The Mic is Ahn” podcast is quickly becoming the talk of the town!

Ahn has been a P.E. teacher at Northgate for the past 18 years and has coached girls basketball along with freshman and varsity football; by all accounts, students love him. He has a true love for his students and his profession. “P.E. is as important as other classes,” said Ahn. “It is a life lesson class. P.E. teaches you how to win, how to lose, how to work as a team; every day is a group project. It’s my job to make sure that every kid has the best high school experience possible.” He teaches Team Sports for sophomores and for juniors and seniors who chose to take P.E. as an elective. Some of his endof-year tournaments like the Ultimate Extravaganza (Frisbee) and the Paddle Tennis Invitational have become legendary.

For many years he has considered starting a podcast given his love of broadcasting. He studied broadcasting in college and worked in the field before going back to school to get his teaching credential.

“I wanted to focus the podcast on people who I know and who I know have something interesting to say. I wanted to share that with other people,” said Ahn. Although Ahn has been actively teaching through the pandemic, leading 11 hours of yoga classes every week on Zoom, this year of having less commute time gave him the opportunity to get his podcast going.

The podcast has over 20 episodes thus far, including interviews with past students like Ben Krauth who is now pitching in the minor leagues, Lauren Curry who is a nurse and health advocate, and Megan Shone who shares her journey through body image issues to a successful career in fitness. All past episodes are available where podcasts can be found or you can reach out to him at: themicisahn@ gmail.com.

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©2021 Open Mortgage, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Open Mortgage® is a registered trademark. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. CA CA-DBO1197293 Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act, #4170030 This material is not from or approved by HUD, FHA, or a Government Agency. Rev. 03/21

AUGUST 2021

Recipe

Fried Chicken Sandwich with Jalapeno Slaw

By Kristin Shopp, Resident since 2014

FRIED CHICKEN

3. Heat oil in a deep pot to 325 degrees.

•

1 quart buttermilk

•

½ cup Louisiana style hot sauce

4. Dip the chicken in the flour mixture, massaging the seasoning into the chicken. *Important to massage it in!

•

2 tbsps soy sauce

•

4 chicken breasts pounded to ¾ inch

•

6 cups flour

5. Fry the chicken until the crust is golden brown all over-10-12 minutes. Transfer to a baking rack with paper towels under it until ready to serve.

•

¼ cup salt

JALAPENO SLAW

•

¼ cup black pepper

•

¼ head cabbage julienned

•

1 tbsp garlic powder

•

2 carrots grated

•

1 tbsp onion powder

•

¼ red onion thinly sliced

•

1 tbsp ground cayenne

•

1-2 jalapeno peppers seeded and finely diced

•

½ to 1 gallon peanut oil, depending on pan width. You could substitute vegetable oil if needed for allergies.

•

¼ cup fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, stir together the buttermilk, hot sauce, and soy sauce. Add chicken and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days.

2. Mix together flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne in a large, shallow dish.

For the dressing: •

⅓ cup mayonnaise

•

Juice of 1 lime

•

⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

•

1 tablespoon honey

•

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

-In a large bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients.

-Add the cole slaw ingredients to the bowl with the dressing.

CHIPOTLE MAYONNAISE •

2 tablespoons of liquid from can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

•

½ cup mayonnaise

•

Mix together and refrigerate until ready to use.

Assembly:

Toast a hoagie bun. Spread chipotle mayonnaise on buns. Put chicken on, top with slaw, and cut in half.

Serves 4

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 19

Local Sports

Local Baseball Player drafted by SF Giants

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 | Photo by Marc Villers

I

t’s every young baseball player’s dream: to play for his high school varsity team, to then get a scholarship to play for a Division I college team, and to be drafted by your local big league team. And that’s exactly how homegrown talent Ian Villers’ baseball life has gone.

Ian pitched for Northgate High School for all four years, gaining the attention of major league scouts even as a high school student. He was drafted in 2018 in the 19th round by the San Diego Padres, but decided to honor his commitment to UC Berkeley and play for them. His Northgate HS coach, Tim Jochner, says, “Ian is a great, respectful young man, with a tremendous amount of talent. I look forward to continuing to watch him grow and mature, and we are all proud of him as a community.” And a former teammate at Northgate, Danny Shaffer, adds, “After playing with Ian for a few years, it was clear he had the work ethic and skills to compete in college and the pros.”

Ian played three years for the Cal Bears, posting a 2.84 ERA with 36 strikeouts in 38 innings pitched out of the bullpen in 2021, and was drafted in the 8th round of the MLB draft on July 12, 2021 by the San Francisco Giants. According to MLB.com, Michael Holmes of the San Francisco Giants said, “…We just looked at it as an opportunity to get a bigger, strong-bodied kid who can really throw hard and has the ability to spin the ball.”

Find Share AND

As Ian’s mom, Sandy, says, ““We couldn’t be happier for Ian. Playing professional baseball has been a goal of his for a long time. To be able to start his career with a team like the Giants is a dream come true. We are so incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported him along the way and can’t wait to see what the future will bring. Go Giants!”

We look forward to seeing where’s Ian’s baseball career goes next!

more local sports articles just like this on BVMSports.com

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AUGUST 2021

On the farm

Why a microscope is the most important tool on the farm and how tillage destroys soil

By Alex Ellison, Resident since 2019

T

he transition from hobbyist gardener to full-time Market Gardener poses many very challenging questions. Land, water, and location are the most difficult to answer. Finding this property on Castle Rock Road answers all of these beautifully. Next would be crop planning and building the infrastructure which includes a post harvest wash and packing station. Having the capacity to offer fruits and vegetables directly to our neighbors provides us an opportunity to showcase produce in a way that has been lost to commercial agriculture. This alone eases the pressures of marketing. Fresh produce, just hours from harvest, is more nutritionally dense and is grown with love and an emphasis on quality over quantity. It tastes better because it is better. Having figured out these key pieces to the puzzle has enabled the farm to host a CSA or weekly share option, a farmstand twice a week during the growing season, and enjoy countless amazing interactions with our community.

But, it frustratingly hasn’t been all beautiful birds, bees, and butterflies. Bugs, and lots of them, have been a huge problem. Add in the gophers, deer, disease and serious weed pressure, and pest mitigation becomes a very puzzling ordeal. As an organic farm, we abhor the idea of using any sort of chemical pesticide, herbicide or any type-of-cide. So how are there so many successful organic farms? And, what are they up to in terms of answering these complex problems?

The answer begins with a startling fact. Tillage, so common that it is almost synonymous with farming, is the worst thing we are doing to our soil. By tilling soil we are obliterating an entire microbial food web that has spent millions of years evolving to form symbiotic relationships with plants. These microbes form a dynamic community of bacteria, protozoa, nematodes, and fungi, all of which are crucial to breaking down organic matter and minerals into the nutrients our plants require. It is the presence of this soil food web that builds healthy soil by numerous biological processes. A healthy soil will produce healthy plants that are naturally capable of defending itself from bugs and disease and will not require any toxic pesticides.

Upon learning about how soil functions and about how detrimental its disturbance is, we immediately disconnected our formerly beloved tiller attachment. Oh, the bed is full of weeds? Till it. It’s time to turn a crop in? Till it. The flea beatles have taken over? Till it. Just this alone explains, perhaps, all of our pest problems. We were using the tiller to treat symptoms, not understanding the root cause of the issues.

We were seeing poorer and poorer fertility, not because we needed to add more and more fertilizer, but because we had destroyed the ability for the soil to function. We were guilty of fighting against nature due to not understanding its language. We realized that soil is not to be treated as a machine. It is an entire ecosystem requiring love and attention to details.

So, a new adventure begins. Out goes the tiller, and in comes the microscope. We spent the entire winter bunkered down to scour the internet for information and guidance. What we discovered was amazing.

Researchers, scientists, professional farmers and amateur gardeners alike have entered into a new era of understanding when it comes to soil science and plant health. We are in the midst of an agricultural revolution and Castle Rock Farm is striving to find itself perched right on the frontier.

Acquiring a shadowing microscope has been an eye opening and profound experience. For the first time we can actually see with our own eyes what a functioning soil looks like. We can identify the different trophic levels of the food web and we have the ability to work towards and then maintain soil health without having to blindly guess. After just 6 months of focusing on biology and ceasing the act of tillage, we have seen extremely promising results. We are seeing a significant reduction in soil compaction through the use of cover crops and weed pressure is much more manageable. We do still have a lot to learn to completely restore balance, but seeing results and having a more comprehensive understanding of these ideas has had the effect of turning these obstacles into a fun and fulfilling challenge.

For questions and comments, please feel free to contact Alex and Tony at castlerockfarmstand@gmail. com. Visit our website at www.castlerockfarmstand.com. Visit our farmstand open Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10am - 5pm every week.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 21

Expert Contributor

Summer Travel Jewelry Care

By Steve Padis, Padis Jewelry and The Forevermark Boutique at Broadway Plaza

A

s COVID restrictions continue to loosen, the world is beginning to re-open and everyone is booking the trips and vacations we’ve all been craving! Weekend getaways, jaunts to the beach, and full-fledged vacations are perks that pretty much come with the territory during the summer months, so it’s no wonder that summer fashion tips such as what to wear, what to pack, what to buy—are at the forefront of our minds right now.

One thing, though, that’s not quite as readily on our radar is the idea of jewelry, and how the summer months might affect our pieces. Namely, how we can protect our beloved rings, jewelry, necklaces, and earrings from the season’s elements, and how we can keep them secure while jetting off somewhere sun-filled.

Our jewelry can take a serious bruising when exposed to summer activities such as lounging in the sand, applying suntan lotion, and traveling. Whether your summer plans include a weekend trip or a week abroad. Here are some helpful hints to keep in mind while you enjoy the beauty of summer:

1. Sunbathe without your Gems

Sunscreen can coat gemstones, which reduces refractive and reflective light.

Essentially, this means your stones won’t be as brilliant or sparkly. To avoid this, leave your fine pieces at home if you’re heading to the beach or the pool for the day, and be sure to clean them regularly all summer.

2. Organization is key when traveling.

When jumbled together, your jewelry doesn’t always get along. For example, a diamond can scratch a pearl, and a bracelet can get caught on a necklace, so always pack pieces in individual soft cloth pouches or lined jewelry boxes to prevent scratching, dulling, and the dreaded tangling of chains.

3. Keep it safe.

When selecting a hotel, be sure that safe deposit boxes are available. Never leave fine jewelry unattended in a hotel room, a rental car, or on a lounge chair—even if you’re just popping over to the bar for a Mai Tai.

4. Shopping for something new? Do your research.

Oftentimes, vacation destinations are also prime shopping destinations, so if you get the urge to commemorate your trip with a new fine jewelry purchase make sure you’re buying from a reputable jeweler that’s been in business for several years. Many stores in vacation destinations prey on unknowing tourists whose guard is down due to a few too many mojitos. When in doubt, check a retailer’s reputation and rating with the Better Business Bureau and always ask for an appraisal. The appraisal should always have the store’s letterhead and a clear signature of a member of store management.

5. Before you go away, be sure your jewelry is adequately insured.

If you decide to bring an especially valuable piece on vacation—perhaps your engagement ring, a pricey watch, or a family heirloom—always be sure it is fully insured. Always obtain insurance through your homeowners or renters policy or a jewelry insurance company like Jewelers Mutual - it is safe and more affordable than you would imagine.

Our team at Padis Jewelry is happy to assist you with any questions or maintenance for your pieces to ensure they stay safe and sparkly throughout the year. Feel free to reach us at concierge@padisjewelry.com if we can be of assistance in any way. Wishing you and your family lots of happy memories and vacations during these lovely summer months!

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AUGUST 2021

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 23

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