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Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

AUGUST 2022

Northgate LIVING CA

Meet the Held Family: Bringing “Minnesota Nice” to Northgate Photo by Julie Cheshire Photography

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. © 2022 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

Welcome to our August issue of Northgate Living CA. Even though school seems to start earlier every year, there is still plenty of summer weather left, and I hope you are enjoying the warm days, backyard barbeques, and, opportunities to attend events in our great city!. 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 the Held family as our cover story this month, a family the embodies midwestern neighborly values. 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 Northgate Living Magazine is devoted to sharing stories, events and news among our neighbors in this wonderful community. If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: NorthgateLivingCA.

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

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AUGUST 2022

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

Since 1984, our family owned business has been guiding busy and successful homeowners in and around Walnut Creek through the design and construction of their dream spaces, providing them with price certainty, a stress-free experience, the highest level of professionalism, and environmentally sustainable methods and products. Contact us to turn your dream into reality with our 3D design and remodeling process.

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!”

HVAC & IAQ

We are a family owned, residential AC and heating company specializing in indoor air quality and high efficiency system maintenance. I truly believe that every household should be able to control their comfort level while keeping their energy costs to a minimum AND ensure clean, fresh air to breathe inside their own homes. It IS your castle after all.I am committed to reinventing the industry and showing the world a new way to do business and get things done... The Evergreen Way.

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.

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.

Religious Education

For over 40 years, Contra Costa Christian Schools has maintained its original mission to Prepare the Next Generation with Christian values and a quality academic foundation. While the instructional strategies and curriculum have evolved, the core mission of serving families in the East Bay has remained the same. CCCS provides a high quality 21st century education within a Christian context that equips students for success, whatever they choose to pursue.

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.

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 Clinic Dr. Brandy Zachary, DC, IFMCP (925)888-8101 Team@BodyLoveCafe.com www.BodyLoveCafe.com Concrete Paver Restorations Drew Bogetti 408-828-6903 www.cprpaver.com drew@cprpaver.com Evergreen IAQ JC Garcia 925-444-5069 jc@evergreenIAQ.com https://evergreeniaq.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/ 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 Contra Costa Christian Schools 925-934-4964 afullmore@cccs.org www.contracostachristianschools.org Precision Sports Medicine & Chiropractic Dr. Christopher Matock, DC CCSP (925) 322-8074 info@precisionsportsmedicine.com www.precisionsportsmedicine.com

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 3

Resident Feature

Kelly and Bear

Meet the

Held Family: Bringing “Minnesota Nice” to Northgate By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 | Photo Credit: Courtesy of Held family

hris Held grew up in Minnesota, enjoying the outdoors and becoming a diehard Minnesota Vikings fan. He describes Minnesotans as a blend between Southern Hospitality and Canadian Politeness… Minnesota Nice. He and his wife, Roxanne, and son, Kelly, embody these values, connecting with their neighbors in Diablo Shadow and the community. Chris and Roxanne met at a backyard BBQ through friends of friends. “Roxanne was actually there to meet someone else when the universe brought us together,” says Chris. Roxanne grew up in Guam and has a love of the islands. So, it made sense that when they married in 2007 it would be on the beach in Honolulu. They both attended San Francisco State University. Roxanne earned a BA in Speech Communications and is a Senior Marketing Director at AT&T. Chris earned a BS in Finance and is also a Certified Financial Planner. He is the managing partner of Element Wealth Management LLC with a new office downtown on Newell Ave. He began his career 19 years ago working for Wells Fargo Advisors and Morgan Stanley before opening his own firm three years ago. He is a Chartered Retirement Plan Specialist and holds a California Insurance license as well. He loves making a difference in people’s lives through financial security. Chris believes in giving back to the community and is on the Board of Directors for the non-profit drumline Rhythm Cadets that enriches the lives of youth through performing arts. He has also volunteered as a Little League coach and scout leader. He loves cars and has a 1949 Ford pickup that he bought while in high school and had restored recently. 4

Kelly, age 12, attends Foothill Middle School, plays water polo for Contra Costa United and swims for Rancho San Miguel during the summer. The entire Held family are big fans of the San Francisco Giants, Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Vikings, and Father William at St. John Vianney where they attend church. Their Goldendoodle puppy, Bear, so named because he looks like a big teddy bear, loves visiting dog parks to meet new friends and burn off energy. In 2013 the Helds made the move to Northgate from Concord. They bought a house that was in need of major repairs and spent six months fixing it up, mostly doing the work themselves, before moving in. They had always loved this neighborhood and were thrilled to find their fixer upper. It turned out they also found great neighbors that sometimes celebrate holidays together and can often be found gathering on the driveway for impromptu wine and social time. The Helds, not surprisingly, love to travel to Hawaii annually. They are also quite adventurous, traveling to Japan and Europe without much planning and on a shoestring budget. As Chris relayed, “For Instance, when flying to Italy, we booked the tickets 8 days before we left ($500 roundtrip) and had no idea where we were staying once we landed. We AUGUST 2022

found a last minute AirBNB that led us to a local bakery where we had to pick up the key from the property owner and wander down the street to find a small door that led us through to an apartment complex where we eventually found our room on the third floor. By that time, it was 8:00 at night.” Closer to home, they enjoy the benefits of Northgate’s proximity to stores, golfing and lots of restaurants. Northgate is a community filled with families from all over, some with deep roots here, others newly established, and everything in between. Like the Helds, all come here and stay here for the same reasons – the people, the open spaces, the schools, and the tranquility. We’d love to share your story next! Kelly plays water polo for Contra Costa United

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.

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 5

Pringles

ARF Adoption Stars

Marcus

By Christa Noriega, ARF Adoption Manager Looking for a furry friend during this trying time? 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. 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.

1½-year-old Marcus is a smart boy who absolutely loves to cuddle! Quite the smartypants, he also enjoys learning new things and is easy to train with the help of some tasty treats. In the home, Marcus likes to follow you around and will happily nap next at your side if you are working. He is also up for going on hikes or leisurely walks around the block. Marcus has a positive history with other dogs and currently weighs 47pounds.

2-year-old Pringles is a sweet, big pup who is always up for adventure! The life of the party, Pringles is everyone’s best friend—dog and human alike—and is always ready to have a good time. He also enjoys doing some training with yummy treats, playing with his favorite toys, or getting some of that snuggle time on the couch. If you’re looking for a furry friend with great dog/dog play skills and a real zest for life, look no further than Pringles! He currently weighs 81 pounds. ARF adoption fees: $250 for an adult dog, $350 for a puppy (<6months), $125 for a special- needs dog, $175 for a special-needs puppy (<6months), and $125 for a senior dog (7+ years).

AUGUST 2022

Real Estate

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

Real Estate Listings in Northgate Active Listings Address

List Price

1155 Snyder Ln $3,998,000 78 Meadow Walk Pl $3,500,000 39 Tierra Verde Ct $3,295,000

Pending Listings Address

List Price

2 Quail Creek Ct $3,200,000 2822 Comistas Dr $3,199,000 254 Tamarisk Dr $1,998,000 1052 Choctaw Ct $1,995,000 624 Creekmore Ct $1,785,000

SQFT

5 7 4

6,609 6,098 3,471

SQFT

4 5 5 4 4

2.5 4 3.5 2.5 3.5

2,159 4,346 2,548 2,296 2,965

5 5 4

Sold Listings Address

Sold Price

SQFT

3745 Waterford Ln 252 Clyde Dr 441 Silver Hollow Dr 1054 Springfield Dr 1101 Sebastian Ln 360 Pickering Pl 3049 Ebano Dr

$2,950,000 $2,605,000 $2,600,000 $2,350,000 $2,050,000 $1,825,000 $1,810,000

4 5 5 5 3 5 3

3.5 3 3.5 3 2.5 3 2

5,116 2,499 3,489 2,659 2,851 2,328 2,005

7/10/2022

DOM 24 17 3

DOM 50 6 10 7 8

DOM 3 28 1 5 29 21 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 & Walnut Creek Realtor * TOTAL SALES VOLU ME F ROM 20 01-2021

Rita Dhillon

925.570.1010 rita.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01109990

Tim Dhillon

925.570.0418 tim.dhillon@compass.com DRE 01521381

Khush Kermanizadeh 925.577.3422 khush@compass.com DRE 01480990

Compass is a licensed real estate broker in California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 7

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Throughout August Cultural Currency

@Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts Cultural Currency: Contemporary Art from the Riemer Collection explores the innovative ways artists use money as a medium to expand its value beyond a given denomination. Each of the national and international artists in the exhibition investigates preconceived definitions of monetary value, meticulously repurposing bills and coins into exquisite, precise artworks. Universally relevant, humorous and, at times, critical, Cultural Currency asks us to consider how the definition of currency can be reshaped into a multifaceted object steeped in meaning and intrigue. Cost: $5 Time: Gallery open from Wed.. – Sun., 12-5pm, excluding holidays https://www.bedfordgallery.org/exhibitions

Thursdays in August Summer Concerts

@Broadway Plaza Dance the night away with free concerts at the plaza. Cost: Free Time: 7-8:30pm

Sat., Aug 13 Watermelon Eating Contest

@Shadelands Farmers’ Market Enter a fun-filled watermelon eating contest for yummy prizes. Register at the market information booth prior to event. Cost: Free Time: 11am

Sat., Aug. 13 Family Mural Walk

@Meet in front of Lesher Center for the Arts Explore some of Walnut Creek’s many murals on an easy walking tour and discover hidden secrets; kids paint at Rudney Plaza afterwards. Cost: $5 for 18 and over, kids are free Time: 10-11am https://www.bedfordgallery.org/ education-tours/public-art-tours

Fri., Aug. 19 and Sat., Aug. 20 Mountain Shadow independent film showing @Walnut Creek Library – Oak View Room Support independent film with a soon to be named film as part of Walnut Creek’s Arts Around August Program. Cost: $12.50 Time: check website www. mountainshadow.org

Sat., Aug. 20 Public Art Walking Tour

@Meet in front of Lesher Center for the Arts Bedford Gallery offers one hour docent-led walking tours of Walnut Creek’s wonderful downtown public art collection every third Saturday, April through November. Our Docents are trained by public art specialists and can offer information and insight appropriate for all ages. More information: https://www.bedfordgallery. org/public-art/public-art-tours. Cost: Adult $5.00. 18 years or younger are free. Please pay in person (cash only). Includes admission to Bedford Gallery. Time: 10-11am https://www.bedfordgallery.org/ education-tours/public-art-tours

Sat., Aug. 27 Remodeling Seminar

@online or in person (3021 Citrus Circle #170, Walnut Creek) Do you dream of transforming your space? We can help turn your dream into a reality. Join our home 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. Let us help you dream a little. After all, dreaming is the first step to creating something new. The event shall be available virtually or with limited in-person attendance with social distancing and following health and safety protocols. RSVP: https://gordonreese.com/home-remodelingseminar/ or by phone (925) 885-3770. Cost: Complimentary Time: 10am

Sun., Aug. 21 Family Day at the Lesher

@Lesher Center for the Arts Chalk art, kids activities, free entry to Bedford Gallery, indoor performances of Wizard of Oz by Fantasy Forum Actors Ensemble. Cost: Free Time: 11am-1pm https://www.lesherartscenter.org/events

Fri., Aug. 26 Opera After Dark

@Broadway Plaza Festival Opera takes over Broadway Plaza for an exciting pop-up concert combining the best of Opera, Cabaret, and American Songbook hits! Bring family and friends and watch as our divas bring music, drama, and fashion together for a one-of-a-kind performance! Cost: Free Time: 7-9pm

AUGUST 2022

Expert Contributor

A Survival Guide for a Bear Market Submitted by Chris Held, Element Wealth Management

bear market is a prolonged period of price declines in securities, an index such as the S&P 500, or the overall stock market of usually 20% or more from a recent high. Bear markets can also signal economic downturns such as a pandemic, recession, or geopolitical crisis and may be cyclical or longer-term. Pessimism and overall negative investor sentiment may occur during a bear market, often leading to herd behavior, hasty decisions, and fear selling. These can be a risk to a portfolio’s overall long-term performance. As uncomfortable as a bear market may be, understanding how your emotions impact your portfolio’s performance is critical. Here are eight tips for helping you survive a bear market: 1.

Turn off the noise. Thanks to the media, we live in an interconnected world and always know what is happening in the world’s markets. While some information sources provide accurate market information, others may not reflect the current market conditions. Limit your exposure to stock market media reporting and rely on your advisor to inform you of what you need to know. Or, ask questions as to how your portfolio and goals may be impacted by a bear market. Live your life. It may be unhealthy for you to follow the market’s performance 24/7 or let it consume you. Also, it is essential to understand that your portfolio does not define who you are or how successful you are. Understand basis point performance reporting. The relationship between percentage changes and basis points determines a difference in a financial instrument, such as the stock market. The Basis Point (BPS) is used to calculate changes in interest rates, equity indexes (stock market), and fixed-income securities yield. A basis point is 1/100th of 1%. For example, the Dow ‘falling’ 400 points would be a 4% decline at the market close. Remember there are 20-22 trading days each month, and reacting to a bear market based on one day’s performance may be a premature decision.

Understand investment risk. It is essential to investigate the strategies

in your portfolio to determine how they pay out dividends and if the payout is reliable during a bear market. Other considerations: 5. Keeping cash in a portfolio during a bear market can create other risks such as inflation and time-horizon risks. 6. Taking more investment risk during a bear market can reap higher returns when the markets start to recover. 7. Examine your portfolio’s strategies. Investing in foreign or emerging markets or different sectors may provide positive returns and recover ahead of domestic markets or other sectors as a bear market shifts toward becoming a bull market. 8. Stick to the (financial) plan. During a bear market, stick to your overall investment objectives and focus on portfolio holdings pertaining to your financial plan, not individual holdings. 9. Let the markets do their thing. It is important to remember that time in the market beats timing the market. Stay focused on your long-term financial strategy and discuss your concerns about bear market volatility with your financial professional. 10. Remember that this bear market, too, will pass. Historically, bear markets tend to be shorter than bull markets. The average length of a bear market is just 289 days or just under ten months. Bull markets can last from a few months to several years, tend to be more frequent than a bear market, and have occurred 78% of the past 91 years.

Important Disclosures The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. No investment strategy or risk management technique can guarantee return or eliminate risk in all market environments. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Basis Points are a unit relating to interest rates that is equal to 1/100th of a percentage point. It is frequently but not exclusively used to express differences in interest rates of less than 1%. Dividend payments are not guaranteed and may be reduced or eliminated at any time by the company. S&P 500 Index: The Standard & Poor’s (S&P) 500 Index tracks the performance of 500 widely held, large-capitalization US stocks. Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA): A priceweighted average of 30 blue-chip stocks that are generally the leaders in their industry. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however LPL Financial makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. This article was prepared by Fresh Finance. LPL Tracking #1-05292862

Are you concerned about this bear market?

Today’s bear market presents challenges but also opportunities and potential rewards. Our team can help address your concerns about this bear market and develop strategies that align with your goals and timeline. Contact us today! chris.held@elementwm.com Sources: https://www.investopedia.com/ terms/b/bearmarket.asp https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/ bear-market-vs-bull-market/#:~:text=Bull%20 markets%20can%20last%20for,973%20 days%2C%20or%202.7%20years. https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/ investing/t052-s001-8-facts-you-need-toknow-about-bear-markets/index.html

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NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

Charity Spotlight

Walnut Creek Tennis Players Rally for Alzheimer's Disease By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

he Walnut Creek Racquet Club, based at Heather Farms’ tennis courts, rallied for hours on June 18 to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s Disease. The fundraiser, called The Longest Day, is when thousands of participants come together throughout the country to raise money to fight the darkness of Alzheimer’s Disease (typically held on June 21, the Summer Solstice). Since 2016 four board members of the club have organized the event, which has raised over $50,000 in the past six year. This year the 40 members who participated in the bracket style “Longest Tennis Rally” raised over $12,000. They are still accepting sponsors through the end of August ( https://act.alz.org/site/ TR?team_id=732387&fr_id=15144&pg=team ). The Alzheimer’s Association said it was the

40 members of the tennis club raised money for Alzheimer’s Disease

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The Tennis Club Board members all rallied for the cause: Douglas Fish, Glen McBee, Euna Roh, and Kevin Kyono.

largest fundraiser for them using tennis as the method to raise money. Board member Kevin Kyono has experienced firsthand the devastating effects of this disease as he watched his father, Thomas Kyono, battle with it. Euna Roh, Board President, participated in honor of her late husband, Rick, who was a board member for the Alzheimer’s Association. Douglas Fish, a Northgate resident since 1998 who started playing tennis with the group about 15 years ago says of the tennis club, “It was invigorating to be with so many caring and supporting people at our annual The Longest Tennis Rally. We raised awareness, donations and each other’s spirits.” Fish was also able to secure the help of Sports Basement for the fundraiser. They donated water bottles for the winners of the tournament and allowed him to buy extra tennis balls. Currently, due to a pandemic-driven shortage of tennis balls, most customers are limited to two cans. Congratulations to the Walnut Creek Racquet Club for their efforts to shine light on the darkness for families who suffer with Alzheimer’s Disease.

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Expert Contributor

Becoming My Own Health Detective By Katie Coelho with Body Love Clinic

know the exact date that I began solving the most enigmatic mystery of my life because it involved my most precious blessing: my life. One day, I rushed home from work, showered, hopped in my car, and met up with my dad for our annual Father/Daughter camping trip. We got up to the mountains in good time, caught and cooked up a mess of trout, and enjoyed a campfire. That night, I woke up to go to the bathroom and found myself ping-ponging around the camper, putting my hands against the walls to catch my balance. Whoa, I thought…altitude sickness? We weren’t that high. Dehydration? I drank plenty of water that day… I declined over the weekend, feeling increasingly dizzy. I stuck out the 3 days, not feeling well and things only got worse. I soon had hives over my entire body. I had an intermittent buzzing/vibration sensation in my brain. I became hypersensitive to my surroundings. Simple tasks like grocery shopping were excruciating because of the sensory overload. I saw two doctors and neither were able to help me.

Signs of toxicity* • Frequent unexplained headaches • Chronic respiratory problems, sinus problems or asthma • Abnormal body odor, bad breath or coated tongue • Environmental sensitivities, sensitivity to odors • Food allergies, poor digestion, constipation, intestinal bloating and gas • Unusually poor memory, chronic insomnia, depression, chronic fatigue • Brittle hair and nails, psoriasis, adult acne, unexplained weight gain * http://www.alternativetomeds.com/neurotoxin-removal.html Katie Coelho is an avid outdoorswoman, enjoying all that Northern California has to offer. Her loves include Paleo cooking, juicing cilantro, yoga, and fishing. Free 15-minute consults with Body Love Clinic. Visit our website: www.bodylovecafe.com

My aunt, having listened to my debilitating symptoms that were persisting over 2 weeks, said, “We’re gonna figure this out, sister. You have to be your own doctor.” As we talked over the next few days, we kept getting thrown off by the camping trip. It marked the onslaught of the symptoms. Fast forward to one day when I went outside to pick up a pile of dirty towels in the garage. As I carried them to the washer, a massive epiphany hit me. My roommate had been using the towels from our linen closet to wipe up excess pesticide and herbicide spray. I was then picking those towels up, washing and using them. I had used the contaminated towels, right before my camping trip, then had not showered for 3 days while in the mountains. Those toxins had been soaking into my skin all the while. I had finally solved it: I was experiencing dermal pesticide poisoning. Initially I was angry with the doctors unable to diagnose me, but it was such a specific environmental factor, I realize now there was no way for them to know. That’s when I became my own doctor. I absorbed every bit of information on detoxing to heal myself. Toxic build up is real - from daily pollutants in our environment, food, water, and air. A chelator (heavy metal detox supplement) was the key to my recovery. Within 48 hours of starting the first cycle, 75% of my symptoms stopped. What can only be described as spludge was oozing out of my scalp and ears for over a month. Did you know that toxins bind to fat and if there is no fat, the toxins will create fat to live in? Did you also know that your brain is the fattiest organ in your body? Mine, where I was feeling the majority of my symptoms, was detoxing big time. 12

AUGUST 2022

Arts & Culture

Celebrate the arts in Downtown Walnut Creek: Arts Around August By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

ance to free live music, enjoy fine food and drinks, explore Walnut Creek’s vast offerings of public art, learn how to make ceramics. The City of Walnut Creek and twelve 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. There will be events or activities throughout the month of August.

Experiences for all ages include: • • • • • • • •

•

Summer Concerts at Broadway Plaza First Wednesday Street Faire Pop-up Opera Fridays Downtown Stages (presented by local performing artists) Public Art Walking Tour Art & History Scavenger Hunts Pop-up Ceramics Sale and Workshop The Valley Art Gallery will be showcasing local artists at businesses throughout the downtown and will be offering a drawing all month for a $300 gift certificate. Eight Painted Pianos placed throughout downtown for anyone to play

For Adults: •

Moveable Feast (an upscale culinary stroll including tastes from the best of Walnut Creek’s restaurants,

• •

with a little sample of public art sprinkled in) Opera After Dark Independent film showing by Mountain Shadow Film Society

For families: • •

Two special days at the Lesher Center (Family Day and Music Day) with free activities for children, Fantasy Forum performances of The Wizard of Oz Family Mural Walk.

Matt Francois, Walnut Creek Mayor, says, “The arts enrich our lives. Walnut Creek has a vibrant Arts District, with the Lesher Center, Bedford Gallery and public art pieces, all located in close proximity to popular restaurants and retailers. The City is pleased to support the return of Arts Around August to our downtown this summer. We hope that residents and visitors alike join us for these fun events celebrating the arts.” Please visit www.walnutcreekdowntown.com/ArtsaroundAugust for more information and a complete calendar of events, times and locations.

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Local Sports

Broncos Football returns two MVP’s with big hopes for the 2022 season By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991

he Northgate Broncos football team is ready for an exciting year. After going 8-3 last season, winning the DAL league, and hosting a home playoff game in the NCS tournament for the first time in five years, Coach Ben Ballard has big expectations for this season. Last year’s team, which included 13 juniors returning as seniors, was led by two MVP’s who are also returning as seniors, John Pelletier and Emilio Pucci. Pelletier was the league offensive MVP at quarterback, and Pucci was the league defensive MVP at the safety position. Pucci also plays on offense as a wide receiver, catching passes from his long-time best friend Pelletier. The two met in Kindergarten at Walnut Acres. They were in the same class and were seated alphabetically (next to each other since both last names begin with “P”), which led to them becoming best friends over the years. They played multiple sports together and at age 8 began playing flag football with the Walnut Creek Youth Athletic Association. Their first team was the Packers, and both their dads coached the team. “My favorite memory of playing football with Emilio,” said Pelletier, “was probably when we threw our first touchdown...he was lined up on the outside and I threw the ball as far as I could and he came and ran under it.” Pucci added, “We dreamed as little kids about playing high school football together and making it to the top.” They both hope to continue their football journeys into college. Coach Ballard and his two MVP’s agree that the reason for the team’s success last year was the hard work they put in and the chemistry the players had on and off the field with each other. In 2020, the pandemic caused the fall football season to be postponed to the spring or 2021. So during the fall, small pods worked out together, doing weights and working on skills. That spring of 2021 they went 4-1 in the shortened season and were eager to build on that success in the 2021 fall season. It helped that there wasn’t much downtime between spring of ‘21 and summer of ‘21 when workouts began for the next season. Hopefully that momentum will carry on into the 2022 season as well.

The Packers was the first football team Pelletier and Pucci played on in 3rd grade. Both are in the middle row, Pelletier, 2nd from left, and Pucci, on the far right.

Football schedule for 2022

Coach Ballard added, “The team did a good job of creating comradery. Everyone had role and knew they were a part of something bigger.” We hope to see you out in the stands on Friday nights this fall, rooting for our home team. Go Broncos1

Aug 26th- vs Deer Valley Sept 2 - @ Ukiah Sept 9th vs Fremont Sept 16th @Bethal Sept 23 vs College Park Oct 7 vs Miramonte Oct 14 vs Las Lomas Oct 21 @Campolindo Oct 28 @ Benicia Nov 4 vs Acalanes

AUGUST 2022

Local Sports

Go Polar Bears! By Christian Rasmussen

ancho San Miguel Swim Team is having a fun and fast 2022 season! RSM went undefeated in league dual meets, took first overall in the Walnut Creek City Meet, and second overall in the Woodlands Invitational. They are really excited about DCSL Championships and County meet coming up in the next few weeks. Go Polar Bears!

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Local Sports

Creakers Senior Softball By Frank Napoli, Resident since 1996

ver want to turn back the clock and relive some of those joyous moments you experienced when you played baseball as a kid? Well, that is something that over 230 seniors get to do each year as part of the Walnut Creek Senior Softball Program, one of the many programs offered by the Walnut Creek Seniors Club. Creakers softball is open to anyone over 50, with some players still swinging a bat and running the bases

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well into their 80’s. Not too shabby. While the overwhelming majority of players are men, the Creakers is a COED league with a few woman players who can challenge the guys with their athleticism. The league is broken down into two divisions, American and National, according to skill level. Frank Napoli, Resident since 1996

Our Placement Committee tries to maintain a balance across the two divisions with an equal number of teams and players per team – not

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Recipe

Tequila-Time Chicken By Lisa Assoni, Short Cut Cook, Resident since 2012

rink moderately and drink often. Eight glasses of water is needed for most people. Hydration is vital for staying healthy. When the day is done, make yourself a hearty meal. Sit down, relax and enjoy!

Recipe • • • • • • •

1/3 cup Teriyaki sauce 2 tsp. lime juice 2 tsp. minced garlic 1 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. ground ginger 1/4 cup Tequila 4 chicken breasts or thighs

Using a gallon, resalable plastic bag, add Teriyaki sauce, lime juice, garlic, salt, ginger and tequila

Zip bag. Shake and mix well. Add chicken, and place in frig for about 1 hour. Cook--Either barbecue or pan fry. Time: 35 minutes. Turn often. Internal temp should be165 degrees. When done, Chicken will be nice and juicy, color-golden brown, crispy and very delicious. Remember alcohol cooks off.

AUGUST 2022

always an easy task. Hats off to the Placement Committee for their diligence in trying to make the game as fair and balanced as possible. The teams are reshuffled every year, to promote parity. This also give players an opportunity to make new teammates. The American Division is regarded to be the more able-bodied players. Typically, they are younger, faster, more agile and play at a more competitive level, while the National Division players tend to be a little older but still relatively fast and agile enough to play at a competitive but safe level. While having fun, modeling good sportsmanship, and upholding the “Creakers Spirit” are important to league play, we are ever mindful that safety is paramount. However rare, accidents do happen and some of our players will pay a visit to the doctor from time to time. The Creakers organization goes back to 1986 with some players having been in the league for over 20 years. We are well organized with a Code of Ethics, Handbook, and are governed by “Senior Softball League Rules”. While having fun and getting exercise may be the main motivation to head to the field, occasionally the competitive spirit will be on full display and circumstances may get slightly heated when there is, shall we say, “a difference of opinion” on certain plays. That is why some players will double as umpires. Problem solved!

force), medical professionals, lawyers, journalists, and meteorologists. It is safe to say that, more than anything else, the Creakers seem to enjoy a sense of comradery. And then there is always the friendly ribbing that takes place before, during and after the game while we all relax with a cold beverage and enjoy some pleasant conversation. Everyone comes equipped with a terrific sense of humor, and players know that they can, indeed, turn back the clock – even if just for nine innings.

We have players from many different occupations, including former teachers, police officers, firefighters, fighter pilots (marine and air

To learn more about the Creakers, or if you are 50 and over and are interested in joining the fun visit https://walnutcreekseniorsoftball.org/.

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Expert Contributor

Your Guide to A Stress-Free One-Day Bathroom Remodel By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008

one day bathroom remodel doesn’t have to be stressful — if you plan it right. This guide will help you tackle a one day bathroom remodel stress-free. From budgeting tips to helpful checklists, these resources will ease the planning process and get your small bathroom feeling large again. What is involved in a one day bathroom remodel? • New fixtures - These are a great way to instantly modernize your bathroom. While they may be a bit pricey upfront, they’ll last you many years to come. •

New toilets - Modern toilets feature sleek designs, quiet flushing mechanisms, and can be eco-friendly.

•

Sinks - If your sink is old and scratched, consider replacing it with a new one.

•

New showers or tub - New showers and tubs can help boost your home’s value, but they can also add convenience, such as built-in storage or extra seating areas.

•

New floors – Depending on the floor you choose, you can include a new floor in the one day bathroom remodel.

•

Shower re-glaze – A shower reglaze can be done in one day. The good news is, you can enjoy your like-new tub within 24 hours!

•

Re-painting the walls – A fresh coat of paint goes a long way and can be completed in less than a day!

Gordon Reese Can Help We are here to answer any questions you may have about a bathroom renovation. It is easy to book a call with me here. We look forward to working with you!

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AUGUST 2022

Expert Contributor

Redefining Leadership By Tammy Kirkpatrick, Contra Costa Christian School

hen most people think of leadership, they call to mind a formal authority figure or a chosen leader. But what if I told you that everyone has the potential to be a leader? One can be a leader of self, being self-reliant and in charge of one’s choices, actions, and decisions. One can also be a leader of others. Some of the ways to lead others, none of which requires the holding of a formal title, include; sharing knowledge or talents to expand other’s thinking, inspiring others to rise to their potential, or guiding a group of people toward the accomplishment of a goal. Jon Gordon, bestselling author of The Energy Bus, said, “We need to prepare our children to be the kind of leaders that will create a brighter and better future.” Dr. Stephen R. Covey defines leadership this way, “communicating a person’s worth and potential so clearly that they are inspired to see it in themselves.”

This belief is the foundation of a program for K-12 schools called Leader in Me that is based upon the popular book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Dr. Covey. These leadership principles that have been guiding business leaders for years have been embraced by thousands of schools searching for a way to provide an impactful educational experience to their students. Contra Costa Christian Schools is pleased to announce the launch of the Leader in Me program for the 2022-2023 school year. We will begin with the belief that there is greatness in every student and staff member, they are all “fearfully and wonderfully made”. This program fits well with our desire to develop the whole child - mind, body, heart, and spirit. As a Leader in Me school, CCCS will teach leadership to every student, create a culture of student empowerment, and align systems to drive results in academics. The

ultimate goal of the Leader in Me program is to help students become self-reliant (independent) and to work well with others (interdependent). Stop by and see this program in action this school year!

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