Northgate Living CA | August 2024

Mailed Directly to Northgate Residents and Published Online

AUGUST 2024

Meet the

Nijjar family:

rooted in family, growing a healthy life Photo by Mehak Khullar Photography

Sat., Aug. 17 Family Art Day at the Lesher

August

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Wed., Aug. 7 First Wednesday Street Fest @Locust Street (between Bonanza St. and Cypress St.) Experience Downtown Walnut Creek’s most popular street festival. First Wednesday is an evening of art, beer/wine, food, activities, live music, and shopping from artisan vendors at this beloved street festival.

Grab a bite and support a small business by ordering from one of many Walnut Creek restaurants that are within walking distance. Connect with the community and explore all of what Downtown Walnut Creek has to offer. Live music

by Freddy Johns Project and The Dive Bombers.

Cost: Free Time: 5:30-9pm

Sun., Aug. 11 Summer Market @Shadelands Ranch Museum The Summer Market 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. Come, shop and grab a bite at the food trucks.

The museum will be open for tours! The Summer Market is a fundraising event for the Shadelands Ranch Museum.

Fee Parking (located behind museum) – Rain or Shine Cost: Free Time: 10am-3pm

Sat., Aug. 17 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

@Lesher Center for the Arts Join us for a FREE day of art making with Community Arts, activities at Bedford Gallery, and live music on the Rudney Plaza at the Lesher Center.

Explore drawing, watercolor, clay and more with Center for Community Arts teaching artists Experience Cut Paste Create: The Art of Collage at Bedford Gallery, including a chance to make your own collage!

Visit the California Symphony instrument petting zoo Plus live music and more! www.lesherartscenter.org Cost: Free Time: 10am-1pm

Thurs., Aug. 29 Cocktails and Conversation – Explore The Art of Collage exhibit @Bedford Gallery at the Lesher Center for the Arts Join collage artist Kimberly Acebo Arteche as she discusses the Cut Paste Create: The Art of Collage exhibition and her lens as a juror, an artist and co-director of BAC. www.bedfordgallery.org Cost: $25 or $15 for Bedford Gallery donors Time: 5:30-7pm

Throughout August Cut Paste Create: The Art of Collage Exhibit @Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts Versatile and accessible, collage allows for a creative amalgamation of 2- and 3-D materials, creating a fascinating visual interplay of textures, colors, and forms that explore the juxtaposition of seemingly disparate elements. From analog cut-and-paste to digital

2

layering, this exhibition celebrates the deft use of materials and creative spirit of collage. https:// www.bedfordgallery.org/exhibitions Cost: recommended $10, but open to all regardless of ability to pay Time: Gallery open from Wed.. – Sun., 12-5pm, excluding holidays

Thursdays in August Broadway Plaza Summer Concert Series @Broadway Plaza Street near Nordstrom Get ready for summer! Dance the night away with free concerts at the plaza. Limited seating; bring your own chairs. The Summer Concert Series is proud to be a part of Summer Arts Walnut Creek ~ A season-long celebration in Downtown Walnut Creek featuring the performing, visual, cultural and culinary arts.

Cost: Free Time: 7-8:30pm

Save the Date: Fri., Sept. 27 and Sat., Sept. 28 Oktoberfest @Civic Park Practice your polka, join us in the biergarten, or on the dance floor for another epic Oktoberfest in Walnut Creek. It’s a great place to show off your dirndl dress or don the lederhosen (not mandatory!).

Walnut Creek Oktoberfest recreates the beloved German fall celebration and includes plenty of German food, familyfriendly activities, a performance by traditional dancers, plus beer and wine. Prost! www. walnutcreekdowntown.com Cost: Free entrance, food and beverage tickets available at event and online Time: Friday 4-10pm, Saturday 12-9pm

AUGUST 2024

Dear Neighbors, Publication Team Publisher: Jo Peek

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

Contributing Photographer: Mehak Khullar

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.

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. We also present the Nijjar family as our cover story this month, a family that is growing a healthy and active life here in Northgate.

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

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, inclusive of materials generated or composed through artificial intelligence (AI). All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2024 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.

If you have a story, event or news to share please email me at knavolio@bestversionmedia.com. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: NorthgateLivingCA.

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 3

Expert Contributors

Advertising - Print & Digital

Over the last 9 years, Jo Peek has been helping local businesses, nonprofits, charities and schools connect with our community on a deeper level. She works with each client individually to customize a marketing campaign to suit their needs, timeline and budget.

Auto Service

Bill Adams and Melissa Brunson welcome you to your car’s service and repair shop. Diablo Auto Specialists is one of the most respected shops in the East Bay since its inception over 25 years ago by Tim Stussy. Bill and Melissa bring years of experience in the independent service and repair business and own additional stores in Castro Valley and Albany.

Concierge Care Coordination

For over 20 years, Cam Jones has been serving the local community as a dedicated healthcare professional. She is a top patient advocate going into her tenth year in the skilled nursing and rehabilitation industry. Facilitating over 3000 patient admissions and having conducted over 900 home evaluations in the non-medical home care industry has equipped her with vast knowledge and a wide network. Cam is an expert with navigating individuals from hospital to home with a specialty dealing with healthcare insurances relative to inpatient rehabilitation facility coverage.

Dentist

Dr. Michael Tobian graduated from the UCLA School of Dentistry. With over 30 years of experience, he has practiced dentistry for patients of all ages. He thoroughly enjoys the art and science of Dentistry. Dr. Maurissa Kiefer got her DDS degree from University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, in San Francisco, CA. Dr. Kiefer strives to provide her patients with comfortable, high quality care.

Design, Build & Remodeling

With 40 years of dedicated service, Gordon Reese Design Build stands as a trusted leader in the remodeling industry. Specializing in kitchen and bath remodels, whole-house renovations, additions, and ADUs, our award-winning firm helps homeowners realize their vision from design through construction. Our skilled team brings creativity, expertise, and attention to detail to every project, ensuring exceptional results.

From concept to completion, we prioritize great ideas, clear communication, and meticulous execution. When you’re ready to transform your home, trust Gordon Reese Design Build to exceed your expectations.

Northgate Living CA Jo Peek 925-272-8246 NorthgateLivingCA@gmail.com www.NorthgateLivingCA.com Diablo Auto Specialists Bill Adams & Melissa Brunson 925-478-5721 1439 Autocenter Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94597 www.diabloautospecialists.com

Camalin “Cam” Jones La Casa Via Transitional Care Center 925-984-1149 camalinj@aspenhealth.com www.casaviahealth.com Tobian Kiefer Dentistry Michael S Tobian, DDS & Maurissa Kiefer DDS 925-407-1155 mydentist@drtobian.com www.drtobian.com

Gordon Reese Gordon Reese Design Build 925-477-4953 Marketing@GordonReese.com GordonReese.com

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AUGUST 2024

Expert Contributors 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.

Storage Expert

At Shadelands Self-storage we provide peace of mind to our clients by offering a state of the art facility with video recorded surveillance and a real-time closed-circuit TV security monitoring station. In addition to our secured facilities, we have climate-controlled units, non-combustible construction and many additional features to fit your storing needs.

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

Shadelands Self Storage 925-935-6200 info@shadelandsstorage.com https://shadelandsstorage.com/

Find us online NorthgateLivingCA www.NorthgateLivingCA.com

2061 Mt. Diablo Blvd. WC

(925) 639-6949

www.TileStudioWC.com

MODELLO TILE STUDIO

KITCHEN AND BATH REMODELING STUDIO

All the quartz and porcelain slabs you can find in California licensed and certified fabrication work

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Resident Feature right here in our own backyard. Every year in the spring, we plant tomatoes, peppers, cucumber, squash and this year we are trying to grow strawberries in our planters! We also have pomegranate, peach, apple, lemon, orange, grapefruit, lime and avocado trees. I’m trying to teach the kids healthy eating habits and the importance of growing your own vegetables along with companion gardening (certain plants thrive better when planted together).”

Sunny attended Cal Poly and Cal State Bakersfield and still works in tech sales. In his free time, he enjoys cycling and rooting for the Warriors and 49ers.

Arosha was born in Colombo, Sri Lanka and moved as a child to the south bay, as her family left Sri Lanka to escape a civil war that plagued the island nation in the 80’s. She attended UC Santa Barbara and still works in tech sales. She’s an avid runner and enjoys working out and being active.

Meet the

Nijjar family: rooted in family, growing a healthy life

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 | Photos provided by Nijjar family

S

ometimes one seemingly small decision, like whether to accept a job offer or not, can change the course of your life forever. When Arosha Nijjar was offered a job at Apple in tech sales, she almost didn’t take the position. She was told by the manager, “You’ll be making the biggest mistake of your life.” Of course he meant for her career, but it turned out to be true in many ways. This job was where she met Sunny, who would later become her husband.

They began dating in 2008 and married in 2010. Their wedding was a series of celebrations taking place across the globe, first in Livermore at Casa Real Winery with friends and family here in the US, then in Sri Lanka with Arosha’s family, and finally in India for a big reception with Sunny’s family. Sunny was born in England, but his parents grew up in Northern India.

Sunny moved to the US when he was three. His father gave up the life they had built in England to settle in California’s central valley and become a farmer, owning walnut and grape farms. “Farming came with its own challenges and demands,” says Sunny, “but this is where I developed a love for gardening.” Arosha adds, “We love the idea of growing our own food 6

As a family, with their twin girls Anika and Anya and dog Pepper, they love long walks and hikes in the open space. On weekends you may find them on bike rides on the Iron Horse Trail.

Arosha and Sunny strive to instill in their daughters what they learned from their upbringings: “We both come from very humble beginnings, and as a result, we are very driven and have a hard work ethic. We try to instill that in our children.”

The twins are eleven years old and entering 6th grade at Foothill Middle School. They have played piano for 7 years, training with a local piano teacher at Ara Piano Academy. Each of them has unique interests of their own. Anika loves reading, playing tennis and going to ballet class.

Anya loves to sing and act, while also playing basketball and taking contemporary dance. Anya was cast as Nala for Curtains Up Youth Theater’s performance of “The Lion King” this past spring and as Annie for the summer production of “Broadway Our Way.” Pepper is a 4-year-old Newfydoodle they adopted from another Walnut AUGUST 2024

Creek family. Arosha says lovingly, “Our lives were forever changed when we brought Pepper into our home! We are much more active and finding ourselves enjoying the beautiful trails of Walnut Creek because of Pepper. Pepper is a diva and has her own personality that includes an obsession with tennis balls and is best friends with our neighbor’s dog, Autumn.”

In 2015 they made Northgate their home, where the girls went to Walnut Acres, following in the footsteps of their cousins. They chose Northgate for the good schools with strong curriculum and athletics, access to outdoor activities, hikes, trails and not far from the city where they work. ”We love how caring and supportive our neighbors are, and we always look out for each other,” adds Arosha.

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.

Your Car Expertly Maintained

Diablo Auto Specialists is Walnut Creek’s only 5-Star auto repair and service center on Google.

Quality Value Service

(925) 478-2647 1439 Autocenter Drive Walnut Creek, CA 94597 www.diabloautospecialists.com

Hours open:

Mon - Fri: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM NORTHGATE LIVING CA 7

Pet Corner

Joybound

Memphis

Red Sox

Looking for Love

By Cole Kuiper, Joybound

Memphis is a loveable pup who is looking for his forever home! He is a 10/10 in energy and looks and is ready to go on any adventure with his best friends.

A

dopt a new best friend at Joybound People & Pets (formerly the Animal Rescue Foundation) in Walnut Creek! View available dogs and cats online or visit Joybound in-person: Monday-Sunday, 12-6 pm. Our team is excited to guide you in choosing a pet, share information about their history and behavior, and provide helpful resources.

Here are a couple of our adorable animals looking for love:

Bonus: Memphis’ adoption fee has been sponsored by a generous admirer!

Joybound adoption fees: • • • • • •

$150 for an adult dog $375 for a puppy (<6 months) $75 for a special-needs dog $200 for a special-needs puppy (<6 months) $75 for a senior dog (7+ years) Adoption fees waived for US military Veterans

Red Sox is a beautiful queen of a cat who knows what she wants and when she wants it! She enjoys pets and affection, but she also has no qualms about communicating when she needs space.

She is sharp witted and can be quite playful with wand toys, but she also enjoys the simple pleasure of lounging around and being near her people.

Joybound adoption fees: • • • • • •

$100 for an adult cat $175 for a kitten (<6 months) $50 for a special-needs cat $100 for a special-needs kitten (<6 months) $50 for a senior cat (7+ years) Adoption fees waived for US military Veteranss

Lic#858791

Interior / Exterior Painting | Sheetrock Repair | Texturing

www.rspaintingco.net

Email: rstrongpainting@gmail.com

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AUGUST 2024

Real Estate

Real Estate is proudly sponsored by The Rita Dhillon Team

Real Estate Listings in Northgate Active Listings Address

List Price

472 Silver Hollow Dr $2,845,000 3686 Oak Creek Ct $2,498,000 767 Buckingham Ct $2,450,000

BD

BT

SQFT

DOM

4 4 6

4.5 3 3.5

3,863 3,218 3,636

34 17 38

Pending Listings Address

List Price

BD

BT

SQFT

3220 Tamworth Ct 377 El Divisadero Ave 1052 Wiget Ln 2715 San Carlos Dr 2305 Rubicon Ct 602 Wintergreen Ln

$1,799,000 $1,695,000 $1,649,000 $1,599,000 $1,495,000 $1,495,000

Sold Listings Address Sold Price

4 4 4 4 5 4

2.5 2 2.5 2 2.5 2.5

2,819 2,032 2,063 1,742 2,567 1,931

26 9 17 8 8 1

BD

BT

SQFT

DOM

895 Gail Ct 2762 Hutchinson Ct 3306 Whitehaven Dr 3317 Ellesmere Ct 196 Los Cerros Ave 606 Arrowsmith Ct

6 6 4 5 3 4

3.5 4 2.5 3 2 2.5

4,282 3,952 2,766 2,569 1,748 2,162

17 8 7 14 7 7

$2,808,000 $2,365,000 $2,065,000 $1,930,000 $1,720,000 $1,700,000

7/14/2024

DOM

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.

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 9

Local Sports

A Glorious Summer of Running

By Ruth Seabrook, Head Coach Northgate Cross Country Photos by Coach Olivia Coetzee

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unlight draped over never ending trails, ice cold watermelon, new friendships and the accomplishment of conquering a challenging sport. 13 years ago Summer Running was one coach and a car on the Castle Rock Road, a table set with watermelon and a handful of athletes. Now the program has expanded to eleven coaches, 130 students on the roster, a weight room and yoga program, and workouts for every level of runner in the hopes that they will fall in love with the sport the way their coaches did many years ago.

6th graders and above are taught how to navigate our beautiful trails in guided groups and they learn everything from injury prevention, nutrition, hydration and how to take care of their bodies before and after running. Veteran returning runners will run 300 or more miles this summer, with top returners such as Elena Carcamo, Francis Chmielewski and Joaquin Guerrero intent on building a base that will get their team to the State meet again this year.

Recently graduated Captains, Ella Kopper, Sophia Carcamo, Nick Knisley and Megan Malloy are now coaches, ensuring another generation is there to take the role of introducing the younger runners to the sport, and creating a future pipeline of distance coaches before they head off to college in the Fall.

Building endurance and stamina is more fun if you have a pool party afterwards, or a fun relay race to pumping music on a Friday even if the banana baton starts to fall to mush as the last sweaty handoff. If you see a group of students out on the trails this summer remember to give them a clap and a ‘good job’ they are working really hard at their new sport!

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AUGUST 2024

Local Sports CHANGE TWO LIVES BY FOSTERING

A FUTURE SERVICE DOG

Local Northgate Water Polo star is named Make a difference for both a shelter animal and a person in need by fostering a future psychiatric service dog through Joybound People & Pets.

MVP in International Tournament

By Heather LeSieur

joybound.org/servicefoster

B

en Forer, a Northgate 2024 graduate and water polo player, went to the International Water Polo Tournament in Buenos Aires, Argentina in July as a member of the U-18 National Water Polo Team.

He was named MVP of the game against Serbia for scoring 7 goals and was also chosen for the Media All Star team for his accomplishments during the entire tournament for his 26 goals over seven games.

The United States team placed 7th overall out of 20 teams. Ben will be playing water polo for Stanford University this fall. Kudos Ben!

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 11

Foothill Middle School’s E.C.K. Club: Leading the Way in Environmental Stewardship

By Nadine Hammer, Board Member Sustainable Walnut Creek, Resident since 2021

A

t Foothill Middle School, the Environmentally Concerned Kids (E.C.K.) Club has been a beacon of environmental activism since its founding in 1999 by science teachers Ariel Owen and Jeff Parish. Today, under the guidance of staff advisor Devin Jackson, they continue this legacy with dedication and enthusiasm.

E.C.K. Club’s mission? To raise environmental awareness and promote sustainable practices among students. One of the club’s flagship initiatives is a recycling and waste reduction program. By sorting waste correctly and minimizing trash, Foothill Middle School students earn raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes at the end of the year. This initiative has significantly contributed to creating a greener campus.

“We believe that small actions lead to big changes. Our recycling program not only reduces waste but also engages students in environmental stewardship.” (Alex McCarty, the EC.K. Club President.)

In addition to recycling, the student led club conducts quarterly trash collection walks and waste audits. Over the past two to three years, they’ve organized 8 to 12 of these events, resulting in a 65% reduction in landfill waste since 2021. The school’s 600 square foot garden, nourished by compost from waste reduction efforts, is another testament to the student’s commitment to sustainability. Foothill Middle School’s dedication to environmental education has earned the prestigious Green Ribbon School Award at the bronze level. This recognition highlights the efforts to reduce environmental impacts and costs, improve the health and wellness of the school community, and provide effective environmental and sustainability education.

“The E.C.K. Club embodies the spirit of environmental activism.

Our students are not just learning about sustainability; they are living it.” (Devin Jackson, Teacher and Advisor) Looking ahead, the students aim to expand the garden and deepen their engagement with environmental issues. If you would like to support the E.C.K. Club’s goals and amplify its impact - please reach out to Devin Jackson (jacksondj@mdusd.org). With the continued support of teachers, parents, friends, and the broader community the E.C.K. Club members are confident that they can drive meaningful change and inspire others to join them in their mission for a sustainable future via thinking globally and acting locally.

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AUGUST 2024

B U I L DI NG

BRAND LOYALTY

By Jo Peek

Expert Contributor A great ad campaign isn’t just about attracting new customers.

It also drives awareness and maintains brand loyalty. Advertising plays a key role in creating brand loyalty by influencing both purchasing decisions and emotional connections. By building top-of-mind awareness, showcasing product benefits, and evoking positive emotions, advertising becomes more than just a sales pitch. It promotes a deeper connection and bridges the gap between your brand and your audience.

▶ HIGHLIGHT PRODUCT BENEFITS How do your products or services solve problems, meet needs, and create value for your customers? Start by identifying what makes your product unique and different from competitors.

Knowing your unique selling proposition lets you prioritize the features that truly resonate with your ideal audience. Once you’ve identified those features, you can effectively advertise them through a visual and compelling design.

▶ CREATE TOP-OF-MIND AWARENESS Forget competing with giants in a crowded marketplace. As a small business, your secret weapon is personal connection. Establishing top-of-mind awareness within your local community isn’t about outspending everyone else, it’s about being present and memorable.

When your brand is consistently present and engaging with your target audience, you become the first name they think of when considering products or services in your category. Monthly magazines packed with local stories and received by trusted households can build that familiarity for your brand.

▶ EVOKE POSITIVE EMOTION Emotions are a key ingredient to brand loyalty. Well-crafted advertising can evoke positive emotions and connect with your audience on a new level, further strengthening the bond between them and your brand. In fact, campaigns with purely emotional content perform about twice as well (31% vs. 16%) as those with only rational content1. By tapping into positive feelings like joy, humor, or inspiration, people are more likely to develop a sense of attachment and preference, ultimately becoming loyal advocates who choose you over competitors time and time again.

Source: www.forbes.com

Is your marketing

ON TARGET?

BEST VERSION MEDIA is one of the top ten fastest-growing private media companies in North America.

We help businesses target & penetrate CONTACT JO PEEK jpeek@bestversionmedia.com • 925-272-8246

the most influential buyers in the community with the combined power of print & digital advertising!

Where residents find and recommend the best local, trusted businesses

NORTHGATE LIVING CA 13

Expert Contributor

From Drab to Fab:

Transform Your Bathroom with These Modern Remodeling Tips

By Gordon Reese, Gordon Reese Design Build, Resident since 2008

Y

our bathroom is more than just a functional space; it’s a sanctuary where you can unwind, refresh, and rejuvenate.

If your bathroom feels outdated and uninspiring, a remodel can transform it into a modern oasis that enhances both your home’s value and your quality of life. This ultimate guide will walk you through the essential steps and ideas to achieve a stunning modern bathroom that meets all your needs.

Assess Your Current Space

Before diving into a remodel, start by assessing your current bathroom space. Take note of what works and what doesn’t.

Identify any pain points, such as lack of storage, outdated fixtures, or inefficient layout. Understanding these issues will help you prioritize the changes you need to make. Consider how you use your bathroom daily and envision how you want it to function post-remodel.

Set a Realistic Investment Range

Remodeling a bathroom can be a significant investment, so it’s crucial to set a realistic investment range. Decide how much you are willing to invest and allocate funds to different aspects of the remodel, such as cabinetry, fixtures, countertops, and flooring.

Remember to include a contingency fund for unexpected expenses.

A clear investment range will guide your decisions and help you avoid overspending.

Choose a Design Aesthetic That Suits Your Style

Your bathroom should reflect your personal taste and style.

Popular modern design elements include sleek fixtures, frameless glass showers, floating vanities, and neutral color palettes with bold accents. Whether you prefer a minimalist spa-like retreat or a more eclectic mix of modern and traditional elements, choose a design aesthetic that resonates with you and creates a cohesive, contemporary space.

Upgrade Your Fixtures

One of the most impactful changes in a bathroom remodel is upgrading your fixtures. Modern fixtures are not only stylish but also come with advanced features that make your bathroom experience more comfortable and efficient. Consider investing in high-quality fixtures such as a rainfall showerhead, a wall-mounted toilet, and a touchless faucet. For a truly modern touch, explore smart fixtures that offer programmable settings and can be controlled via your smartphone.

Optimize Your Layout

A functional bathroom layout is essential for efficiency and ease of use. The most popular bathroom layouts include the one-wall, galley, and L-shaped designs. The layout should facilitate easy movement and access to key areas such as the shower, vanity, and toilet. Consider reconfiguring the space to create a more open and airy feel. If space allows, incorporate features like a double vanity or a separate shower and bathtub for added luxury.

Invest in Quality Cabinetry and Storage Solutions

Modern bathrooms emphasize streamlined storage solutions that keep the space clutter-free. Opt for floating vanities with sleek hardware. Soft-close hinges and drawers add a touch of luxury and functionality. Maximize storage with built-in shelves, medicine cabinets, and under-sink organizers. Open shelving can also be a stylish addition, providing easy access to frequently used items and allowing you to display decorative pieces.

Select Durable and Stylish Surfaces

Surfaces are a focal point in any bathroom and play a significant role in the overall design. Materials like quartz, marble, and porcelain are popular for their durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal.

These materials come in various colors and patterns, allowing you to choose a look that complements your design aesthetic. Consider incorporating a feature wall with decorative tiles or a statement countertop for a sleek, seamless appearance.

Enhance Lighting and Ambiance

Proper lighting is crucial in a modern bathroom, both for functionality and ambiance. Layer your lighting with a mix of task, ambient, and accent lighting. Vanity lighting illuminates your face for grooming tasks, while recessed ceiling lights provide overall illumination without cluttering the ceiling. Consider installing dimmer switches to adjust the lighting according to your needs and mood. Accent lighting, such as LED strips under the vanity, can add a stylish touch and enhance the overall ambiance.

Add Finishing Touches

The finishing touches bring your modern bathroom remodel together. Choose a stylish backsplash, such as subway tiles or glass mosaics, to add visual interest. Incorporate contemporary fixtures like a sleek faucet and modern cabinet handles. Personalize your space with decorative items, such as a bold piece of artwork, stylish bath mats, or a vibrant shower curtain. These details will infuse your bathroom with personality and charm.

Conclusion

Transforming an outdated bathroom into a modern masterpiece requires careful planning, thoughtful design, and quality materials.

By following these steps, you can create a bathroom that is not only visually stunning but also highly functional and tailored to your lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking a spa-like retreat or a practical family bathroom, a modern remodel will elevate your home and enhance your everyday life. Gordon Reese Design Build is here to help you realize your remodeling goals, from design through construction, within an established investment range. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we ensure your bathroom transformation is smooth, successful, and perfectly aligned with your vision.

14

AUGUST 2024

Zucchini Car Races

delight Farmers’ Market shoppers

By Kara Navolio, Resident since 1991 | Photos by Linda Colberg

O

n your mark, get set, there go the zucchinis! On July 6, the Diablo Valley Farmers’ Market was buzzing with excitement as kids and adults alike decorated zucchini cars and watched them race down the ramp.

Many heats were needed to accommodate the 58 racers, each winner advancing to the next heat, until finally a winner was crowned. This year’s winner was Even, and his car was named Sticky Gecko. Even walked away with a nice $200 cash reward. The judges also awarded several “Most Creative Car” awards with $50 cash: Kaylee with her Mr. Ducky Mobile, Aiden who created American-mobile, and Sabin for her Garden on a Roll.

Prior to the races starting, Cherise Khaund, Field Representative for State Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, presented Warren Cox, manager of the Diablo Valley Farmers’ Market, with a Certificate of Recognition for being named #1 Favorite Farmers’ Market in the State of California by the American Farmland Trust.

Cherise Khaund, Field Representative for State Assemblymember Rebecca BauerKahan (16AD) presenting Certificate of Recognition to Diablo Valley Farmers’ Market Market Manager Warren Cox for DVFM being named #1 Favorite Farmers’ Market in the State of California by the American Farmland Trust.

Front row (l-r)) Fastest Zucchini Car: Even & Sticky Gecko; Most Creative Zucchini Car: Kaylee & Mr. Ducky Mobile; Back row (l) Most Creative Zucchini Car: Aiden & American-mobile; (c) Most Creative Zucchini Car: Sabin & Garden on a Roll; (r) friend holding Kaylee’s Mr. Ducky Mobile.

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